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THE BREEZE
OCTOBER, 2023 Vol.25, Issue 16
Chaffey College’s Independent Student-Run News Source
The Breeze Visits KVCR By: Nikolas Araiza
On Oct. 11, The Breeze was able to get hands-on experience in radio and tv journalism at KVCR, the Inland Empire’s PBS and NPR affiliate. Continued on page 3.
The Breeze Editors at KVCR with David Fleming, Lillian Vasquez and Rick Dulock Photo by Nya Hardaway
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Prop from “Talk to Me.” Photograph from bloody-disgusting.com
OPINION
How Fashion is Ruining the By: Randall Lopez Thrift
Photograph by Sean Benesh
A24 Films and What Makes a Production Company a By: Paul Arganda Cult Classic? From twisted psychological horror storylines that slowly gnaw at your psyche to heartwarming drama pieces, A24 is revolutionizing mainstream Hollywood by setting a new standard for previous studio titans. What is this indie studio doing and why are they so
different from these major Hollywood studios? What components do they implement in their film making process and what thoughts do they hope to provoke with the symbolism?
Thrift culture has been a rising phenomenon for fashion enthusiasts for the past few years, especially with the great pieces you can find for affordable prices. Thrift stores, vintage shops and flea markets have been the go-to spots for consumers. Unfortunately, resellers have begun to take advantage of the high demand of second-hand clothing, and have been increasing the prices of vintage clothing for consumers. The concept of thrifting has drastically changed over the last couple of years. Consumers were able to gain a unique fashion sense in searching for unwanted items and repurposing them for an outfit like pieces
to a puzzle. Consumers found pride in recycling clothes and giving light to different fashion styles. Stores like Goodwill Outlets used to be overlooked and ignored, but now are looked at like a treasure hunt for hidden pieces. Thrift stores are getting the most business than ever before with people eager to participate in thrift culture. Goodwill being the most popular saw its peak in 2022 with a revenue of $6.1 billion dollars.
Continue on page 4.
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SPORTS
World Cup Image from Fabrizio Romano’s announcement on X, formerly known as Twitter, @FabrizioRomano
2030 World Cup Hosts Revealed By: Eduardo Benitez
The hosts for the 2030 World Cup has been announced by the Fédération internationale de football association or FIFA. Spain, Portugal and Morocco are going to be the main hosts for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay are set to host three inaugural matches as a celebration of the first World Cup held in 1930. Morocco will be hosting the tournament for the first time and we will see the tournament return to Africa, which has only
hosted the tournament once during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Portugal will be hosting for the first time, meanwhile Spain sees a return of the World Cup as they hosted the 1982 Edition. Continue on page 8.
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THE BREEZE
October, 2023
thebreezepaper.com
Chaffey College’s Independent Student-Run News Source
EDITORS Editor-in-Chief
China Ang @china.marie.ang
Sports Editor Nikolas Araiza @nikolas.araiza
A&E Editor Maria Zaldivar @maria.z.aldizar
Opinions Editor Jess Rodrigo
STAFF Paul Arganda Staff Writer Eduardo Benitez Staff Writer Tristan Ell Staff Writer Nathan Gosney Staff Writer Randall Lopez Staff Writer Arleigh Martinez Staff Writer Wynter Muro Staff Writer Devon Pizano Staff Writer
ADVISORS Michelle Dowd Student Media Advisor Hector Solorzano Program Assistant/Advisor Danny Keener Department Coordinator Nya Hardaway Journalism Apprentice
Dear Readers,
Letter from the Editor
For the sake of transparency, I am willing to admit that journalism was never something I imagined myself doing. I was always in the business of telling stories, but journalism was never my way of doing so. But when my English professor, Ian Jones, opened it up to his class that there was going to be a meeting for the Breeze later in the day, I was mildly intrigued. I did not even know that there was a newspaper on campus. I thought that it would be a good opportunity to write more. Something I knew I had to improve on. And thus, with that in mind and the promise of donuts for anyone who came to the meeting, I made my way to Wargin Hall, into a room with no windows, and attended the Breeze’s first meeting last semester. One semester later, I became the Editor in Chief. I have had bouts of leadership before so I was not so uncomfortable with the idea of leading a team but before this semester, I had never even taken a journalism class. And before classes started, the very day before, the staff that was going to be leading the Breeze with me had quit. I was alone. Until I realized I wasn’t. Last semester’s Editor in Chief, Nya, was coming back to be our journalism apprentice. She was heaven sent. A talented writer in her own right, Nya has helped me build this team to what they are now. Along with Hector, our advisor, The Breeze is starting to resemble a team worthy of the name. The Breeze’s numbers are small, half of what it was before the pandemic, but we are mighty. We have desk editors that have grown into their positions with grace and writers that are insatiable when it comes to pitching stories. In this semester’s tangible copies of our work, I want the focus to be on them. For all intents and purposes, this is The Breeze reborn. We have a journalism class to fill out our staff and the ability to build our team in person for the first time in three years. Whatever happens with the Breeze from here on out will build on the work that we do now. And our 102 years of history. Sincelerly, China Ang
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Letter to the Editor Letter to The Breeze Editor, Journalism and I have been in a loving, healthy relationship for years. That’s not to say we have not had our ups and downs, but we prevail every time, which is something I can thank The Breeze for. I developed my adoration for the art of journalism here, my first home, the place where people grow into the journalist or writer they dream of being. I am thankful to have a footprint at The Breeze because without it, I would not have been able to meet China, The Breeze’s current Editor in Chief, and my friend. I have watched China go from the person who asks questions, to the person who has all the answers. I have watched her staff’s writing go from good to great. They have evolved from student writers into journalists. The dedication they have to The Breeze and to each other is something to be celebrated and acknowledged. I am so proud of The Breeze staff and all of their hard work this semester, but I am especially proud of you, China Marie Ang. I am so lucky to be a part of something good here once again as your Journalism Apprentice. Love Always, Nya Hardaway
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THE BREEZE
October, 2023
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NEWS
The Breeze Visits KVCR By: Nikolas Araiza and China Ang On Oct. 11, The Breeze was able to get hands-on experience in radio and T.V. journalism at KVCR, the Inland Empire’s PBS and NPR affiliate. The trip started off with a tour of the facility. The Breeze staff was brought through their broadcasting stations, which they use to reach a multitude of audiences. Staff was lucky to receive a first hand look at the production process, and how KVCR broadcasts their programs. The team then split up into two groups in order to participate in two different demos, one with Rick Dulock, Program Manager of KVCR and occasional host and another with Lillian Vasquez, current host of Lifestyles, KVCR’s ongoing television program. With Dulock, the team was able to experience the engineering and recording aspects of a live radio segment. In the engineering portion of the demo, students were able to hear and practice with on-air talent. For the person behind the microphone they were able to record a small news segment. With Vasquez, the team was grouped into pairs to write their own reporting segment, they were encouraged to get creative and then they got the chance to record their segments in front of a camera. The Breeze looks forward to visiting KVCR again sometime in the near future.
China Ang getting ready to “punch” someone in! Photo by Nya Hardaway
Randall Lopez writing his cue cards for the camera demo. Photo by Nya Hardaway
Nate Gosney engineering radio segment. Photo by Nya Hardaway
Lillian Vasquez showing staff around the broadcast center. Photo by Nya Hardaway
Eduardo Benitez recording a radio segment. Photo by Nya Hardaway
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THE BREEZE
October, 2023
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NEWS / ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Psi Beta Comes to Chaffey
By: Devon Pizano
Chaffey has recently created a chapter of Psi Beta, a National Honor Society dedicated specifically to psychology. Chaffey has recently created a chapter of Psi Beta, a National Honor Society dedicated specifically to psychology. This organization was founded in 1982 and has allowed students who are majoring, minoring or simply interested in psychology to expand their knowledge. Psi Beta is open to students attending two-year colleges. Psi Beta’s mission focuses on encouraging professional development and recognition of excellence in leadership, research and community service. Membership is open to all Chaffey students who maintain a 3.25 GPA, have taken at least 1 psychology course earning a “B” or higher and have completed at least 12 units of college credits. A one time membership fee of $50 dollars is required when students first join. For students who need it, a raffle for 2 free memberships ends on Oct. 31 for students that are interested in joining. Some benefits to membership are recognition for achievement, eligibility for national awards, acquiring leadership skills and
A24 Films and What Makes a Production Company a Cult Classic? By: Paul Arganda
A24 Films has been making a breakthrough in mainstream media in the past few years. What made them stand out in an industry that is already so dense? From twisted psychological horror storylines that slowly gnaw at your psyche to heartwarming drama pieces, A24 is revolutionizing mainstream Hollywood by setting a new standard for previous studio titans. What is this indie studio doing and why are they so different from these major Hollywood studios? What components do they implement in their film making process and what thoughts do they hope to provoke with the symbolism? A24 is an independent film studio that enables creativity by giving gifted directors the opportunity to create grounded movies on personal issues. This while also creating a universe with endless possibilities in their films like, “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” Each actor appears to seamlessly create such an honest and pure relationship with their character, which in turn, creates relationships with audiences. The actors animate the screenplays and make characters’ perspectives mirror reality. A24 is able to resonate with the humanity of its audiences in a way that has not been done before. Whether they see themselves in the first generation experience of “Joy” from “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” or with the plight of being a teenage girl demonstrated in “Ladybird” or even the themes of generational trauma touched on in “Hereditary,” the audience discover ways to see a piece of themselves in the story.
participation in national, regional, and local psychology association programs. In addition, there are benefits specific to our Chaffey chapter including the opportunity to work alongside professors in the Psychology department like Professor Vincent, Professor Glass, and Professor Lucas. Students also have the chance to represent Chaffey as a Western Psychological Association, WPA, Student Council Representative and Psi Beta being added as an honor to the member’s transcript. Psi Beta is an organization that cultivates members’ passion for psychology. It creates a welcoming environment for those interested in psychology and helps students find their path whether that is in research, clinical work or teaching. Psi Beta teaches valuable skills that can help to further a career in the field and allow for meaningful connections to be formed. This honor society has the potential to create future leaders in psychology. For more information, please contact the head advisor, Professor Vincent.
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Matthew.Vincent@chaffey.edu
Prop from “Talk to Me.” Photo from bloody-disgusting.com
“Talk to Me”, A24’s newest film release, is their latest endeavor in championing new creative minds to produce what will soon be a cult classic. Remarkably, A24 production gave this opportunity to Youtubers “RackaRacka” to create this unique horror film that captivated audiences with its gripping plot and symbolism regarding grief and coping mechanisms. “Talk to Me” follows the story of the cut off, embalmed hand of a medium that enters the lives of Australian teens as a simple party game. Their party host explains that the hand is used to contact the dead. Just having lost her mother, the main character “Mia” played by Sophie Wilde, steps up to be the first to touch the hand. The sequence of events that succeeds this decision follows the main characters as their psyche begins to come apart as a result of spending too much time playing with the dead. “Talk to me” is not a story new to this blend of reality and fiction. This amalgamation is something key to A24’s style of filmmaking. “Talk to Me” contains an enormous amount of symbolic easter eggs thrown into the terrifying plot, and backed with a talented new Australian cast. The cast captivated the audience with their gripping performance of angsty characters that had us unsure if they were going to make us laugh or jump with each passing scene. A24’s ability to consistently employ previously unknown actors and filmmakers and turn them into industry names is what has allowed them to be regarded as a one of a kind studio. While this makes them unique, what truly makes this studio shine is the way they depict real life experiences in an artistic yet realistically expressive way. The audiences find themselves in the characters and their stories, allowing them to become connected and engaged to the movies A24 produces instead of passively consuming them. Ultimately, this is what has cemented A24’s legacy as a studio icon.
THE BREEZE
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October, 2023
5
OPINION
How Fashion is Ruining the Thrift
By: Randall Lopez
The Negative Impact of Social Media By: Arleigh Martinez
The inside of a thrift store. Photo by Sean Benesh
Thrifting used to be a cheap and sustainable way of maintaining one’s individuality through fashion, but has now become a way for resellers to make a profit. Thrift culture has been a rising phenomenon for fashion enthusiasts for the past few years, especially with the great pieces you can find for affordable prices. Thrift stores, vintage shops and flea markets have been the go-to spots for consumers. Unfortunately, resellers have begun to take advantage of the high demand of second-hand clothing, and have been increasing the prices of vintage clothing for consumers. The concept of thrifting has drastically changed over the last couple of years. Consumers were able to gain a unique fashion sense in searching for unwanted items and repurposing them for an outfit like pieces to a puzzle. Consumers found pride in recycling clothes and giving light to different fashion styles. Stores like Goodwill Outlets used to be overlooked and ignored, but now are looked at like a treasure hunt for hidden pieces. Thrift stores are getting the most business than ever before with people eager to participate in thrift culture. Goodwill being the most popular saw its peak in 2022 with a revenue of $6.1 billion dollars. The embrace of second-hand fashion is definitely a step in the right direction for sustainability. Sadly, resellers have stormed these businesses in search of anything that seems trendy in the market.
People line up daily to scour items for hours and resell what they can find with over a 50% markup. Goodwill Outlets charge by the pound which is why most resellers turn there to make an easy profit. Budget-conscious consumers turn to thrifting as an opportunity to save money on fashion pieces. They are now being met with higher price tags and less options for these kinds of pieces because of resellers. Sustainable fashion should not be an option for only those who can afford the high markups. As far as finding a solution for this recent rise in prices goes, it is getting harder to find a balance in the market between consumers and sellers. People are giving in to the prices they are met with and pay the fees resellers give. The industry is adapting and it is getting harder to make fashion accessible for everyone. Online resell platforms such as Depop, Poshmark and Grailed have seen a huge increase in numbers with buyers and especially sellers. These platforms are used to sell second-hand items such as vintage finds, trendy clothing and even designer piece. These items could be found at thrift stores at a reasonable price before, but are now being sold with an extreme markup on reselling-based platforms. As long as items get left behind, they sit on racks until eventually ending up in landfills. This does not mean that they were not good items as fashion is subjective. Thrifting is abundant and you can still go out and find something you might like!
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Social media has become an integral part of our modern society and as a result of that, it has been negatively impacting the public. As people continue to consume various social media platforms, it can be easy for one’s self confidence to excessively decline. Users on social media often create idealized versions of themselves which leads to unrealistic expectations of their viability. Women are the most targeted in the media when it comes to obtaining a certain look. When a woman’s Instagram feed is constantly flooded with unrealistic standards, she starts to internalize the notion that she must conform to these standards in order to feel beautiful. According to the National Library of Medicine, the consumption of social media can lead to body dysmorphia and a decline in women’s confidence. Media platforms such as Instagram can be misleading to young girls especially with apps like Facetune where one can alter their appearance in a matter of seconds. Beauty, in this day and age, no longer equates to personality or the unique quirks that one might have. Individuals are now prone to judge beauty solely on external appearance. The criteria has been set to have a small waist, big lips and a thigh gap along with many other unattainable beauty standards. According to the standards the media has set, women should have a small waist and an hourglass figure because without it, women are deemed undesirable. In reality a “big butt” generally comes with some degree of cellulite, yet that is almost never shown in the media. Full and voluminous lips are often achieved by injectables. People do not have the baby smooth skin because skin is meant to be textured. It is human nature to have acne on the skin and stretch marks on the waist. In various cultures, there is a contradictory desire for either a slender physique or a more voluptuous figure. Women may find it challenging to maintain confidence when they witness the on-going changes of beauty ideals. What is considered beautiful in the U.S is also far different from what people consider beautiful in other parts of the world. Beauty is subjective and there should be no need to alter appearances because the media says women have to look a certain way. Love what your body does for you rather than how it looks.
The Benefits of Reading a Newspaper: A Window to the World By: Jess Rodrigo Here, we explore the benefits of reading a newspaper with a focus on its tangibility and the reduction of screen time, and delve into how excessive screen time can negatively impact mental health. In an age dominated by digital media, the tradition of reading newspapers still holds immense value. Newspapers continue to provide unique advantages, offering a welcome respite from the digital onslaught and contributing to our personal and societal well-being. One of the most compelling aspects of reading a physical newspaper is the tactile experience it provides, setting it apart from the constant glow of digital screens. It offers a much needed break, reducing screen time and the potential for eye strain. A study published in the Journal of Research in Reading in 2017 highlighted the benefits of print media, including newspapers, in reducing screen time and improving reading comprehension. The sensation of flipping through pages can be satisfying and promotes a genuine connection to the news. Excessive screen time has been linked to various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances, making this tactile escape all the more valuable. Engaging with a newspaper requires focused attention. It encourages readers to set aside distractions and concentrate on the content at hand. This enhanced focus can lead to better comprehension and retention of information, a stark contrast to the fragmented and often overwhelming nature of digital content. Local newspapers are invaluable sources of community-level news and events. They play a vital role in keeping residents informed about what’s happening in their neighborhoods, schools, local government and businesses. A study by the Pew Research Center in 2019 found that local newspapers are still a vital source of information for Americans, with 37% of adults reporting that they often get local news from newspapers.This local focus fosters community engagement and encourages civic participation, fostering a sense of belonging that digital news often lacks. The ability to engage with a single source of information at a time fosters mental clarity and reduced stress levels. It can combat the negative effects of screen-induced information overload.
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October, 2023
THE BREEZE
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OPINION
Addressing the Epidemic: A Call to Action on School Shootings By: Maria Zaldivar As of Oct. 3, there have been 58 reported school shootings in the United States this year alone, underscoring a pressing need for change. The alarming rise in school shootings demands urgent attention and comprehensive action. As of Oct. 3, there have been 58 reported school shootings in the United States this year alone, underscoring a pressing need for change. This unsettling new normal not only highlights the inadequacy of mental health care, but also emphasizes the importance of fostering kindness, addressing bullying and implementing preventive measures to keep guns out of the hands of minors. Behind the staggering statistics lie heart-wrenching stories of parents fearing for their children’s safety every school day. No parent should ever have to wonder if their child will come home unharmed. The impact of school shootings extends beyond the immediate victims, affecting entire communities and leaving scars that last a lifetime. A critical aspect of this issue is the lack of access to quality mental health care. Many school shooters, as reported by brookings.com, are males who have experienced isolation, rejection or bullying. By prioritizing mental health resources and support, we can address the root causes of such violence and work towards prevention. In a world where desensitization seems to be on the rise, promoting kindness becomes paramount. Teaching children the core
Letter to Old Friend: My Person By: Heinrich
Dear friend, As Halloween approaches, I’ve been thinking about my fears and I realized that my fears have been holding steady for most of my life. I have phobias. I jump when I see a spider. I feel a shiver down my spine when I have to enter an elevator. I tremble at the sounds of fireworks. I have phobias. But I think fears are more visceral. The steady approach of loss and grief scares me. Death is the end of all ends and yet, I have to find a way to keep going. I’m scared of what I’ve lost and what I will lose. But most of all, I am scared of doing it all by myself. Loneliness has been a companion for a few years. I am one of those sad individuals who have convinced themselves that alone protects me. I can’t lose if there is nothing to lose. Earlier this year, my grandmother passed away and I did not expect her death to eviscerate me the way that it did. She died of cancer. A common cause of death for many of my female relatives. I had to watch her wither away, rot in front of my eyes. I said goodbye to her two weeks before she even died because I selfishly had school and a life to get back to, 8000 miles away in America. She wasn’t the first person I’ve had to grieve for. The first was a shock, a suicide. For him, I tried my best to grieve in silence, learning early on that after the first two weeks, grief is not something that was welcome in my casual conversations anymore. So, when it was time to grieve from my grandma, I kept it all hidden away. This was how I learned to grieve. I did it alone once and I am certain I can survive doing it alone again. But I find myself not wanting to. This loneliness that I’ve felt comfort in, is colder than it used to be. I find myself wanting someone else to carry all of this with. A person. My person. Another person to fear losing, but without them, loneliness has never been so present. Maybe it’s more present because there is a certain person in mind when I write about not wanting to be alone anymore. The wrong person, but a person that has inhibited every thought recently. Falling in love, if that is what I fear I’ve done, was not something I was open to. Nor is it something I celebrate now because with all this talk about “my person,” this particular person already has someone. And now I am stuck with an unrequited love that I try hard to keep to myself, but fail multiple times a day. Grief, in whatever form it comes in, is a weight that I no longer want to carry on my own. Love is the answer most of the time, but when it isn’t, grief still perseveres. But in a way, so does love. Because what is grief other than love persevering. For life can exist without grief, but grief cannot exist without life. Sincelerly, Your friend (Unfortunately)
A child holding a sign saying “no more guns.” Photo by Jason Leung
values of empathy and compassion can go a long way in preventing the isolation and rejection that may lead to destructive behaviors. Anti-bullying classes should be integrated into school curricula to emphasize the importance of treating others with respect.
It is okay, I can cry now By: Nikolas Araiza As a boy growing up in a traditional household, I was not allowed to cry. I was often told “I’ll give you something to cry about,” by my father. But as I have aged, and broken free from my father’s judgment, I have accepted that it is okay to express my emotions even if it means others judge me. I am not the only man who hides their emotions. Whether it be feelings of sadness or insecurity, men around the world go through this in fear of being judged by their peers for being weak or less of a man. Men have social expectations of not showing their emotions, but instead to be stoic. Crying in front of my dad has always come at the cost of belittlement and mockery. Because of him, I have at times felt weak and truly alone with no one to talk to. This caused me to hide my emotions and refuse to express them when others are around. There was a girl that was everything to me and was truly the first person I had ever liked. She was the first person who made me feel seen, but near the end of our time together, she would mock me for showing emotion. Conversations would typically end with her laughing at me and calling me a “crybaby.” Since then I have been able to realize the damage it had done to me, not only mentally but emotionally. For a while, I did not know what to do. I felt lost and I did not know where to go. Over time though I realized, the demons from my past would only hold me down. I can see other men around me hiding their pain, I can see when
Sports fans and Fangirls: Whose Reputation is Glorified Versus Vilified By: Wynter Muro Hundreds and thousands of screaming fans fill the stadium. Merch honoring the main event is worn by those who watch in admiration. Faces are painted. Voices are shot. Glitter and confetti, or beer cans and discarded napkins litter the floor once all is done. Sports fans versus fangirls; similar in culture yet starkly treated differently. Sports fans and Fangirls are demographically different, 44% of sports fans are composed of men who range between the ages of 35-44 years old. Whereas fangirls are widely known to be made of primarily female identifying individuals who are between the ages of 14-23 years old. But when it boils down to it, is there really that much of a difference in the way the two display their enthusiasm? Whether the drive is witnessing the winning touchdown of your favorite football team, or finally seeing the musician you’ve adored since you were a kid in your nearest city, the notion of “fandom” finds itself fitting in a variety of spaces. Both groups tend to have a social media presence dedicated to those they admire. For sports fans, there are accounts across different media platforms that follow around sportscasters, teams and their players. Similarly, fangirls have curated a space known as “Stan Twitter.” Participating in stan culture means having an
According to Sandy Hook Promise, a staggering 93% of school shooters plan their attacks in advance. This statistic emphasizes the importance of paying attention to warning signs and signals. Schools must actively implement measures to identify and address potential threats early on, creating a safer environment for students. Acknowledging that guns are the leading cause of death among American children and teens is a crucial step in finding solutions. Stricter measures are needed to keep guns out of the hands of minors, ensuring that firearms do not become tools of violence in schools. In addition to the urgent need for mental health care, kindness promotion and preventive measures, it’s crucial to recognize the role of American culture in sensationalizing violence. Our society has witnessed an unsettling trend where violence, especially gun violence, is overly glorified. This cultural phenomenon contributes to desensitization and normalization of destructive behaviors. To address the epidemic of school shootings, it is imperative to reevaluate how violence and firearms are portrayed in our culture. Responsible media practices and stricter regulations on the glorification of violence can play a pivotal role in reshaping societal attitudes. By fostering a culture that values empathy, conflict resolution and peaceful coexistence, we can contribute to a safer environment for our youth. The epidemic of school shootings requires a multifaceted approach that addresses mental health, promotes kindness, implements preventive measures and advocates for stricter gun control. As a society, we must collectively work towards creating an environment where every child can go to school without the fear of becoming a victim of senseless violence. It’s time to turn our collective grief into action and prioritize the safety and well-being of our youth.
my grandpa wants to cry but since he is supposed to be “manly” he rarely ever shows his emotions. I, like many others, have never seen their father cry. A father is supposed to be strong, the leader of the house, not someone who cries and shows weakness. This all stems from toxic masculinity that has been perpetuated by the idea that to be a man, one must be able to live life as a stoic. The term toxic masculinity was coined in the 20th century by a mythopoetic men’s movement. Toxic masculinity has been shown to have a negative impact on a man’s social life according to a study by Michigan State University. When I was the most depressed in my life, it was when I had no one to talk to. I was too afraid or embarrassed to tell someone how I felt because I did not want them to think of me as less of a man. I did not want to be perceived as “weak”. I was able to unlearn a lot of these toxic traits with the positive influence of my coworkers. Thanks to them, I have allowed myself to express emotions without the fear of being judged. Since I stopped hiding my emotions around others, my mental health has improved tremendously. I no longer have fear of not fitting into a mold I do not naturally fit into. Focusing on mental health has been a big priority for me since mental health is a very delicate situation, especially for men. One study found that men make up nearly 75% of all suicides in North America. Taking care of one’s mental health should be important and not ignored. After many years of struggling with holding in my emotions and not allowing myself to express certain emotions, I have finally grown beyond that. I no longer fear the judgment of others and with that, I have learned that it is okay, I can cry now.
account that is solely dedicated to one’s idols and interacting with other fans alike, getting the latest updates on their favorites. When attending sports games, sports fans are notorious for spending large amounts of money betting on the outcome of a game or by purchasing their favorite players’ merchandise. Some of them will be seen by cameras at these events, sobbing when their team loses, or cursing out other individuals near them. Despite the fact that fangirls have similarities like spending mass amounts of money on tickets and concert merch, society ridicules them over sports fans. They are made to be ashamed of their excitement with it being classified as “insane” and “immature.” Within the culture of extreme sports fans, it is an unfortunate known fact that towns are often left disheveled with fights having occurred throughout the stadium post-game. Speaking to the realm of fangirls, there is no violent craze such as that. Instead, it is a common sight to see girls walking closely together, limbs draping across each other as they tirelessly gossip of the experience after the concert. But still, only one of these groups will be seen as “insane.” Fangirls deserve respect over ridiculement as they are the reason why some of these artists have platforms. For example, with the recent 2023 concert tours of Beyonce and Taylor Swift, the economy has seen an incredible boost. This is huge considering the impact COVID-19 had on concerts. It is the same essence that sports fans are what really fund stadiums through the large sums that they receive from ticket and concession sales. The truth of the matter is, there are few differences between fangirls and sports fans. Society needs to toss the aged out caricaturization of fangirls. It is about time that fangirls stop receiving the short end of the stick and are given the flowers they deserve.
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THE BREEZE
October, 2023
7
SPORTS
2019 NFL Draft Review By: Nathan Gosney
Kyler Murray Running Photo by Joe Camporeale via USA TODAY Sports
1. Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray, QB, Oklahoma Grade: B Analysis: The first selection in the 2019 NFL (National Football League) Draft was somewhere between a disappointment and a slam dunk. Kyler Murray has been very inconsistent but has shown plenty of promise to be the “guy” in Arizona. Murray has two Pro Bowl selections under his belt. If Murray can get back to his 2020 form where he scored 37 total touchdowns, the Cardinals have their long-term answer at QB like they envisioned back in 2019.
Nick Bosa Flexing Photo by Godofredo A. Vásquez via The Associated Press
2. San Francisco 49ers: Nick Bosa, DE, Ohio State Grade: A+ Analysis: Nick Bosa had big shoes to fill being the little brother of Chargers’ superstar Joey Bosa. The number two overall selection surpassed expectations and has become one of the premier talents at his position. Other than in 2020 where he missed 14 games due to injury, Bosa has racked up plenty of accolades: Defensive Rookie of the Year, 3x Pro Bowls, First Team All-Pro in 2022 as well as Defensive Player of the Year in 2022. If Bosa continues this production, expect a gold jacket for the 2019 number two overall selection.
Entire List of 2019 NFL Draftees From @NFL on X, formerly known as Twitter
Quinnen Williams Amped Up Photo by Adam Hunger via The Associated Press
Clelin Ferrell Without His Helmet Photo by Darren Yamashita via USA TODAY
Devin White On The Field Photo by Mark J. Rebilas via USA TODAY Sports
3. New York Jets: Quinnen Williams, DT, Alabama Grade: A Analysis: Selecting a Defensive Tackle in the top three in today’s NFL is usually frowned upon. Though if you are getting a guy like Quinnen Williams, it would be more than worth it. Williams took a little while to reach his full potential, as he was a very solid defender for his first three years in the league. In 2022 under new head coach Robert Saleh, Williams showed his true potential, meeting the expectations of his draft status in 2019. Recording 12 sacks and a First Team All-Pro selection.
4. Oakland Raiders: Clelin Ferrell, DE, Clemson Grade: F Analysis: The then-Oakland Raiders, now known as The Las Vegas Raiders, chose to select Clelin Ferrell with their fourth overall selection. This was the first draft shock of the night, as fans and analysts alike were stunned by how early Ferrell went. Being selected this high, the pressure was on Ferrell. Ferrell did not live up to the expectations, only recording ten sacks in his four years with the Raiders. Now with the 49ers, defensive line guru Kris Kocurek looks to revive the former Clemson product’s career.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Devin White, LB, LSU Grade: C Analysis: Devin White is a confusing selection to grade, as on one hand, he has a Pro Bowl selection, and plenty of box-score statistics to show his production as a linebacker. But diving into the film of White, you notice plenty of mental errors, lapses in coverage and general mistakes. For a top-five selection, White is an average selection at best. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will need to look in a different direction soon to replace both White and his running mate, veteran Lavonte David.
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8
October, 2023
THE BREEZE
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Sim Racing to the Real World? By: Tristan Ell
Porche 911 flies down the straightaway. Photo by Paul Jespers
2030 World Cup Hosts Revealed By: Eduardo Benitez FIFA has announced the highly anticipated hosts for the 2030 World Cup. The hosts for the 2030 World Cup has been announced by the Fédération internationale de football association or FIFA. Spain, Portugal and Morocco are going to be the main hosts for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay are set to host three inaugural matches as a celebration of the first World Cup held in 1930. Morocco will be hosting the tournament for the first time and we will see the tournament return to Africa, which has only hosted the tournament once during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Portugal will be hosting for the first time, meanwhile Spain sees a return of the World Cup as they hosted the 1982 Edition. The 2030 World Cup will mark the centenary edition of the tournament and to honor that, FIFA has decided to host three inaugural matches in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. The first match of the tournament will be held in Montevideo, Uruguay, at the legendary Estadio Centenario where the 1930 World Cup Final took place. In the announcement of the 2030 bid, FIFA president, Gianni Infantino stated, “In 2030, we will have a unique global footprint, three continents – Africa, Europe and South America – six countries – Argentina, Morocco, Paraguay, Portugal, Spain and Uruguay – welcoming and uniting the world while celebrating together the beautiful game, the centenary and the FIFA World Cup.” This edition of the tournament will be the first to be held across three continents. The FIFA World Cup has been held across different countries in the same continent before. For example, in 2002 Korea and Japan co-hosted the tournament for the first time on the Asian continent. The upcoming 2026 edition will have three host countries Canada, Mexico and the United States. North America welcomes back the World Cup after the 1994 World Cup where Brazil was crowned champion at the Rose Bowl. FIFA has stated that the Asian Football Confederation and the Oceania Football Confederation can now start placing their bids to host the 2034 edition of the FIFA World Cup. The six co-hosts for the 2030 World Cup have gotten automatic qualification to the tournament. As of now, there is no official confirmation of all the stadiums they plan to use.
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Jour 31
Recently, the movie “Gran Turismo” was released to theaters documenting the story of racer Jann Mardenborough. Jann was one of the best players on the Gran Turismo gaming series, eventually competing in what was called the GT academy. Jann competed against some of the best Gran Turismo players in the world and got the opportunity to race for Nissan’s Sports car team after winning the GT academy in 2012. You may ask yourself, why should a guy who played a video game be able to drive real life race cars? How would a game be able to apply anything to the real world of racing? First, it is important to explain what simulated racing is. Simulated racing, also known as sim racing, is simply a virtual style of motor racing designed to replicate real life motor racing. There are many different platforms of sim racing to choose from such as Gran Turismo or Iracing. A sim such as Iracing, puts in countless time and effort to make the most realistic experience possible. This is shown by their process of laser scanning of tracks and cars with the idea of creating the most accurate physics engine possible. Many professional drivers use sim racing to practice, such as the Red Bulls Formula 1 Racing team with champion driver Max Verstappan. Many drivers such as Mardenborough and upcoming Nascar driver Rajah Caruth, used sim racing to pave their way in motorsport. It is hard to get into professional racing without having some sort of financial backing. Cars are naturally very expensive and asking the average person to not only pay for a motorized vehicle but to also maintain it is difficult. Sim racing can be much cheaper and an easier starting point for young racers. A game like Gran Turismo can be easily accessed if you have a playstation. A Logitech Wheel and pedals can be purchased at a much cheaper price than the thousands you may spend on a go-kart. There are many people that should have the opportunity to drive in real life but never have the financial backing. Even though a sim racer may not be able to feel the car in his computer chair, there are a lot of qualities that apply. You can still apply throttle, brake and steering inputs while developing timing and knowledge about racing vehicles. That’s why many professional drivers use it and why drivers like former Nascar driver Dale Jr endorse it. Iracing, Gran Turismo and other sims continue to evolve. Maybe you will see another story of a sim racer turned professional.
A deep dive into the 20232024 Los Angeles Lakers By: Nikolas Araiza
Student Media Practicum II ~ In-Person and Online Wednesdays @ 2:00 pm
Eng 35
Literary Magazine Production ~ In-Person and Online Wednesdays @ 5:30 pm
Anthony Davis and Lebron James stand on the court Photo from NBA.com
Jour 30
With a new season underway how good can this Lakers team truly be?
Student Media Practicum I ~ Online
Jour 10
Newswriting ~ Online
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With the regular season underway, the Lakers have high expectations after a flurry of offseason moves. Notable moves include Gabe Vincent, Christian Wood and Taurean Prince. Prince has impressed many with his play in the preseason, scoring 10 or more points in three of the six preseason games. His play has been so impressive that he has been named as a starter on opening night against the Denver Nuggets. D’Angelo Russell has also been very impressive. With his abilities to shoot and pass the ball, he will be looked at to lead the team when Lebron James is on the bench. Through the first five games of the season, the Lakers will have a tough schedule. They will take on the likes of the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings, Orlando Magic and Los Angeles Clippers. And while it will be tough, the Lakers certainly can win a majority of these games. For the Lakers to make a serious run at a championship this year, it will take a lot. The continual improvements that Austin Reaves has had throughout his career is needed. Anthony Davis and Lebron James will need to stay healthy throughout the majority of the season as well. Davis will need to take his spot as leader of this team. When Davis plays well, the whole team plays well but when he plays terribly, good things tend to not happen for the Lakers. But if things go right for the Lakers, they have the potential for at least 55 wins this season. With the season underway, it will be exciting to see how this team can flow together. They have a lot of potential, but it will take not only the players, but the entire organization from top to bottom to make it a reality.