The Chaparral, Vol 67, Issue 3

Volume 67 Issue 3

Monday, Mar. 25, 2019

thechaparral.net

KCOD station manager Giselle Woo will perform at Chella

BY CARLOS GARCIA STAFF REPORTER

The Coachella Valley is wellknown for its music and arts scene, especially for Coachella Fest. In between the two-week extravaganza lures another festival called Chella hosted by Golden Voice. Chella is a one-day

PHOTO COURTESY OF AR STUDIOS

event held on April 17, inside the

Indio Fairgrounds at the Fullen-

wider Auditorium. The leg-

Giselle Woo and the Night Owls performing at Coachella Valley Food Trucks (LEFT) and at Casuela’s Cafe (RIGHT).

endary band "Los Tucanes De

color with back up vocals and

From the emotions to the visuals.

as a band moving forward, we

sometimes its easier to go with

Tijuana" will play as the head-

percussion, and bass player

Everything will be there and

are going to get into the studio,

the flow, but if you feel passion-

liner. Other acts such as Mon

Marco Murrieta. And from that

present. The pride and honor

and I am very excited about

ate about something and notice

Laferte, and KCOD's very own

lineup is what makes "Giselle

will be at an all-time high that

that."

that you have to make a little

station manager Giselle and her

Woo & The Night Owls."

band "The Night Owls" will also

perform.

"Excitement!

Lately,

night. "You can be expected to be

Woo hopes what she is

noise or simply have to go

"Our style is that of desert

moved. You can also be expected

doing will encourage other aspir-

against the flow to get to where

rock inspired by our home, the

to feel pride knowing that you

ing artists or bands. "There are a

you want to be, so be it."

I've

Coachella Valley," states Woo as

went to school with one of us, or

few things I can say; when has it

Chella is scheduled for April

been feeling a lot of gratitude."

she briefly describes her band.

hung out with us at our local

ever been easy to pursue a

17 in between weekend one and

Woo said as she has been offered

The Coachella Valley influence is

spots, shoot we might even ex-

dream? The one thing that stands

two of Coachella Fest. Doors will

the opportunity to be performing

deeply rooted in the bands'

change a hello, or even shared a

out to me is this - do not listen to

open at 6 p.m. For more informa-

at "Chella." As anyone would ex-

music and appearance. Which

hug."

negativity, even when it is com-

tion about "Chella," visit Golden

pect, to perform in such a high-

greatly sets them apart from

From the band, in general,

ing from a family member or

Voice at their website www.gold-

lighted pedestal, the feeling is

other bands. "The best way I've

we can expect lots of surprises

someone you admired a lot. Most

envoice.com. or you can reach

phenomenal.

heard someone describe us was,

and new content. "We will begin

people will say or do anything to

them 760-863-8247. You can fol-

Giselle Woo & The Night

'you sound like all my favorite

recording our first album. I also

ensure they're own happiness

low "Giselle Woo & The Night

Owls is a band consisted of four

bands in one.' We just love

recorded an EP with my good

and will try to crush your spirit.

Owls," on Twitter, Instagram

members. Woo the singer and

music, different kinds, all kinds.

friend Bryanna Evaro (Desert

Stay strong, stay focused, and

and Facebook @ Giselle Woo &

part guitarist of the group, Chris-

I think that is what makes us

Rhythm Project) on bass guitar,

reach out for help when you

The Night Owls.

tian Colin also a guitarist, Jose

stand out."

and Tyler Saraca on drums, with

need to. Do whatever it takes,

Christian Colin on lead guitar.

just do not let negativity con-

Ceja holds the band down with

For the bands' performance

the drums, Cesar Flores adds

at the event, we can expect a lot.

We will be releasing it soon. But

BY ERIN HALBEISEN

kitchen characterized by flower

had problems and dreams dif-

STAFF REPORTER

"Crimes of the Heart" premiered

in

Theater

Too

on

COD's Palm Desert campus at 7 p.m. on March 12. The play was

Crimes of the Heart takes the cake

wallpaper and lime colored fin-

ferent from one another, but

ishes. Love songs popular to

loved each other nonetheless.

the 1960s played in the back-

There were very few errors

ground upon entering the the-

made by any of the actors,

ater and blue lighting was used

which deserves a round of ap-

throughout to build intensity.

plause.

The director held true to

While the play does not

originally written by American

the playwright's original vi-

completely resolve the prob-

playwright Beth Henley and

sion. All actors impressively

lems presented, the audience is

considered a "black comedy,"

held Southern accents and the

left on a hopeful note. The

Janet

costume design was represen-

"Crimes of the Heart" closing

Miller defines as "a comedy

tative of the time period as well

scene showed the sisters laugh-

which

play

director,

with serious undertones."

The play is set in the mid-

sume you. Another thing is

as of the personalities of each

ing and eating birthday cake.

of the characters.

The cake was offered to the audience after the close which

PHOTO COURTESY OF JANET MILER

Tania Vazquez, Cecilia Orosco and Diana de la Peña in their final

scene of "Crimes of the Heart."

20th century in Hazlehurst,

Lenny wore conservative

Mississippi. The story revolves

clothing that was too old for

around three sisters, each with

her age, Meg wore tight jeans

One student, Ian Tang, pro-

though some of the themes are

was a major plus. that can apply to anyone."

their own "crime of the heart":

and colorful tops, and picture-

vided a male perspective. He

rather serious, there is comedy

Miller hoped that the audi-

Lenny, the eldest sister, has

perfect Babe wore wellkept

said, "The play really came to-

strung along the entire way

ence will take home with them

never allowed herself to find

dresses in pink colors. The di-

gether around the familial rela-

that makes this play real-life re-

these timeless themes, but most

true love. Meg, the middle sis-

rector took care in making the

tionships. You could really feel

latable. Overall, Janet Miller,

importantly, she says, "I hope

ter, has loved too many men.

actors of the three sisters, Tania

the tension of old relationships

the cast, and the crew deserve a

the audience can see the talent

Lastly, Babe the youngest has

Vazquez, Cecilia Orosco and

and the spark of the new ones."

round of applause for putting

and hard work put in not only

just killed her husband.

Diana de la Peña, look alike in

Maglia Sabio, another stu-

on such a professional produc-

by the actors but by everyone

tion.

behind the scenes."

The production was spot

dent said, "I enjoyed seeing the

hair color and stature.

on from stage design to cos-

Vazquez, Orosco and de la

three sisters and how they in-

Miller said, "The audience

COD's next production is

tumes, to lighting and the per-

Peña skillfully acted-out the

teract with each other and how

can expect to see themes of

Andrew Lloyd Webber ’s "The

formance by the actors was

brutally honest and loving rela-

they created solutions to their

spreading wings, sister bond-

Phantom of the Opera." It will

near perfection.

tionship of three sisters. They

problems

the

ing, and mental health as well

premier at the McCallum The-

expressed

youngest of three sisters so I

as darker themes surrounding

atre on May 2-5. For tickets go

can relate."

The stage design accu-

the

frustration,

together.

I'm

rately portrayed the era from

anger, forgiveness, and uncon-

spousal abuse and attempted

online

set to sound. The set was de-

ditional

sisters

This play touches on a

murder. It is a feminist play,

ofthedesert.ticketleap.com.

signed

share. It was clear that each girl

wide range of themes. Al-

but there are universal themes

LOCAL-PG 3 Little League Safety Expo

A&E-PG 4 Local Artist and Filmmaker

OPINION-PG 5 The Dangers of Vaping

as

a

modest

1970s

CAMPUS-PG 2 Solutions Kiosk Mystery

love

that

at

www.college-

SPORTS-PG 6 Women’s Tennis Spotlight

THE CHAPARRAL

Pg. 2

March 25, 2019

Campus

What happened to the Solutions kiosk?

BY HARRISON BLUTO

hall, who was a professor of

Business at the time. accord-

STAFF REPORTER

ing to hall, the kiosk was created

“as

an

instructional

opportunity for retail MancOD is working on plans

agement students." hall said

to reopen the student ran

that, through the kiosk, stu-

roadrunner cafe, located on

dents could enroll in a work

the Indio campus soon during

experience class, earn transfer-

this Spring semester. The stu-

able credits, and get paid a

dent kiosk located on the Palm

stipend at the end of the se-

Desert campus; however, has

mester based on the kiosk's

more issues involved with its

earnings.

closing that leaves its potential to reopen in question, according to cOD's Dean of the

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL The Student Solutions Kiosk has been closed since the start of Spring 2019 semester. drop the item entirely if the

kiosk

average kiosk worker, accord-

the student kiosk, the only

School of applied Sciences and Business, Zerryl Becker.

“Even

though

we

“It was nice having a snack station in the middle of campus,” says cOD student James Via. With the closing of

for

students

became

sell

sandwiches are the cause of

more and more about keeping

ing to Becker, signs up for

non-snack machine places to

packaged food, the health de-

the required license. The re-

the store running and less

three units of labor changing

get food are the Beeps cafe

partment decided we needed a

quirement for the license is the

about the overall business run-

their time put in from 180 to

and the bookstore located in

license to sell,” says Becker as

main reason for the roadrun-

ning experience it was initially

225. “The kiosk does not make

the cravens building. That

to why the roadrunner cafe

ner cafe’s closing in Indio.

created for.

nearly enough money to pay

means that if students want to

students for those hours.”

grab a quick snack before

had to close. The roadrunner

The student kiosk on the

cafe debuted in the Fall semes-

Palm Desert campus; however,

student

stipend

another issue that is cre-

class, they have to go to the

based on the kiosks earnings is

ated by paying students for

opposite end of campus from most lecture buildings.

The old model of paying workers

a

ter of 2018 and was an indoor

had the problem of too many

kiosk rather than an outdoor

small issues piling up.” says

what Becker says is the biggest

hours of work is that a super-

kiosk similar to the Palm

Becker. The main issue was the

issue.“The definition of un-

visor is required to be over-

Desert student store.

“It was a nice, chill place

closing of the hilb building for

paid now means no pay what-

looking the kiosk at all times

to stroll up to with friends in

renovations. Storage for the

soever, not even a gift card.”

that is not a faculty advisor.

between classes,” said cOD

handler's license when selling

snack stand moved to the

The stipend model was a con-

The issue of the hilb building

student rachel Garcia. rachel

pre-packaged food; however,

maintenance building on the

venient way to give students

closing and the new definition

misses the environment the

fresh food does require it.

other side of campus from the

work credit as well as money

of unpaid labor are the reasons

kiosk had as well as the op-

Becker suspects that the selling

kiosk snack stand.

for compensation for their

for the Palm Desert campus

tions of snacks available that

work but now is illegal if con-

student kiosk closing.

couldn't be purchased any-

One does not need a food

of pre-packaged TKB sand-

This meant that setting up

wiches at both kiosks might

and closing took an hour, re-

have been what triggered the

stocking became an issue and

requirement for the fresh food

the kiosk computer moved to

hours

specific license. Becker says

the business building. These

whereas paid workers need 75

that the store will most likely

issues meant that running the

hours of work per unit. The

Sciences, arts & Media, Kelly

BY HANNAH JUAREZ

and sculptures and celebration cakes

restaurant business, 'if it looks good it

process is really amazing. The pro-

and desserts. The judging was done by

tastes good'," said cOD alum and

gram has advanced a lot," said Perez.

gory was Dee Brewer for her Books of

local, experienced chefs including

chef/owner of New Leaf catering

This type of competition has not

Knowledge. The first place winner in

Freddy rieger, the executive chef of

Scott robinson.

been held in the coachella Valley since

the entree category was robyn

STAFF REPORTER

tinued.

The

Unpaid workers need 60 of

work

per

unit

student

where else on campus. Many

kiosk was initially created

Solutions

students share this sentiment

under the supervision of the

of a friendly atmosphere and

Dean of the School of Social

convenience of the store.

Grand Salon showcases food art

first place winner for the dessert cate-

On March 13, 2019, over 85 col-

Fantasy Springs resort casino, herve

The students who participated in

1991 according to chef azer. chef

Striplin. The first place winner in the

lege of the Desert students competed

Glin, the executive chef of Parker Palm

the contest waited anxiously outside

Isidro hernandez, the culinary arts

center piece category was Pimentel Balstasar.

in a "Grand Salon" culinary competi-

Springs, and Scott roberson, a cOD

with their family and friends while the

laboratory technician said, "I love the

tion. a "Grand Salon" is a 100-year-old

alum and the chef/owner of New Leaf

judging took place. "We have all seen

'Grand Salon' I think it's a good way to

If you're interested in a degree in

traditional food show. "What the salon

catering.

each other's work [and] there is some

make our students proud of them-

the culinary arts, cOD offers a two-

was known for was the artistic value

Students were judged on four to

stiff competition. We are really happy

selves. It allows them to show the

year program. There are three certifi-

of it and the simple fact 100 years ago

five categories. They looked at the

to see all of our hard work," said Dee

world what they have learned and

cates; beginning, intermediate and

you didn't have refrigerators. So

product and the conformity. Was each

Brewer a first-year culinary student at

what we are doing here. It's also a

advanced. cOD currently offers one

everything the students made for this

piece on the cake/project symmetrical

cOD. The students were all really sup-

good way for our program to be rec-

associate's degree in culinary manage-

show is meant to be able to sit here lit-

and even? Were there any smudges or

portive of each other. "I think every-

ognized. We are getting chefs and peo-

ment. culinary management focuses

erally for the next 48 hours and noth-

marks on the platforms they were

one's dishes are really good. You can

ple from the industry in the coachella

on half kitchen and half restaurant

ing will happen to it. This is a

served on? how was the overall ap-

tell they worked on them. It was diffi-

Valley to see what our students have

management. It helps to lay the foun-

non-edible show. The show will show-

pearance? What level of difficulty was

cult but it came out nice," said Miguel

to offer. We are producing a workforce.

dation for students to run their own

case the artistic and creative skills of

the product? "For me, you want to see

Escoba, a third-year culinary manage-

The effort our students put into their

restaurant one day. The culinary arts

our students," said cOD culinary arts

the technique but sometimes over

ment student at cOD.

work is what is important."

Department is currently working on a

Instructor Jeffery azer.

Students competed in one of

technique is something you should

Even former students came out

The judging took longer than ex-

avoid. Simplicity can overrule some-

to show their support like Jacqueline

pected. It took almost two days to cal-

three categories: hors d'oeuvres; appe-

times. also, I look for the aesthetics of

Perez. "When I was in the culinary arts

culate all the information, but finally,

tizers and entrees; artistic showpieces

the dish. There is an old saying in the

program we didn't have this. The

all three winners were announced. The

COD Chef Isidro Hernandez helping a student with her display.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL

second degree which is a full-fledged chef degree.

march

THE CHAPARRAL

25, 2019

Pg. 3

Campus

BY JACOB SCHULTE

COD's radio station ranked among the best in the country

STAFF REPORTER

KcOD had another spectacular showing at the 79th annual Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) New York city conference this year taking home 9 awards, many in prestigious categories including best overall on-air schedule, best station playlist/music selection, and best community college radio station in the country award.

Toni Bakal is one of cOD’s radio and film adjunct instructors. Bakal prepares her students to host their radio shows and also manages the on-air schedule for KcOD. She is a former student and won best-on air personality at the IBS awards in 2016, Bakal has been part of the growing success of college of the Deserts' student radio program.

“We’re being nominated and winning awards because our students and staff are showing we’re one of the best in the nation, that we’re in that elite class,” Bakal said.

With a small staff headquartered at the radio station across the street from college of the Desert's main campus, Bakal credited the teamwork involved daily for turning KcOD into one of the most exciting student radio programs in the nation. “I think we were nominated for best community college radio station in the nation because of how creative and collaborative our station is through the line, with our content, our student workers, our community hosts," Bakal said.

"We get together and create great

new programming that helps people discover new things, new music, rising artists, great indie bands or even old songs that aren't as popular that you may have never heard. I think that kind of approach is making us shine because we’re doing something different.”

Local music and rising artists fill up a large portion of KcOD’s radio on-air schedule, but there are plenty of unique talk shows such as harrison Bluto and James Via’s video game discussion show “Plug ‘N Play” that airs on Saturday at 8 a.m. Past episodes can be streamed free at KcODcoachellaFm.com Editor-in-chief of The chaparral newspaper, alexandria rosales, attended the conference in New York and learned about the importance of everyone combining their unique talents while being versatile in their own right. “One of the seminars I attended talked about creative convergence, which is bringing different media types together like photography, writing, radio and making it one big wave of communication. We’re already doing a lot of that, so I think it’s awesome to feel like we’re ahead of the game.” rosales will be helping KcOD during Stagecoach with interviews and reporting stories as they happen during the country music festival. “It’s a win-win because although their team has more radio background, and with me being a journalism major, I’m used to going and talking to people, interviewing people and storytelling. So The chaparral is going out for inter-

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL

KCOD staff and DJs holding awards at the 79th Annual International IBS Conference in NYC.

(LEFT) Ariel Suarez, Alexandra Valenzuela, Giselle Woo, Tyler Spurgeon, Abraham Cervantes and Alexandria Rosales (RIGHT).

views and reporting, then it will air on KcOD, and I want to do more of that.” rosales encourages journalism students to study radio to broaden their skills, and vice versa. “Journalism is not just one thing anymore. To be a good journalist is to have a radio background, a broadcast background, to know how to be on camera and still tell a story, to be able to take pictures,” she said.

KcOD offers a unique hands-on work environment which is evident by the nomination for best station facilities.

Laurilie Jackson, media production instructor and KcOD advisor, was especially proud of this award because of the creative freedom the spacious and wellresourced facility provides. “The

best facilities nomination was big for us," Jackson said. "KcOD’s new building on Park View has allowed us to teach and train more students in kind of a creative hub. Our station is now a multi-media center where students are creating radio content, making videos, publishing newspapers both in print and online and recording newscasts. They are multimedia ready."

Jackson who oversees cOD's media programs hopes to expand by offering new courses, certificates and more hands-on opportunities. She is working on developing a student magazine, live newscasts and feature radio shows. "We have folks from Palm Springs Life and National Public radio (NPr) willing to help us with internships and workshops.

The possibilities for these students are endless. media studies and our programs provide so many options." Jackson said.

Jackson's leadership has played a big part in KcOD's continued success. “I am extremely proud of our team. The students, faculty and staff have worked so hard to make our programming relevant and amazing. The fact that we were nominated for these top awards again confirms we are doing something right.” Jackson said.

You can listen to KcOD at 99.9 Fm, 1450 am, iTunes, TuneIn and will soon be going live with a new phone app where listeners can download and listen anywhere at any time. For more information visit www.coachellafm.com.

THE CHAPARRAL

Pg. 4

MARCH 25, 2019

Local

Westfield Mall presents Project Z

BY MELISSA ESPINOZA

Graffiti Night is run by ex-

STAFF REPORTER

perienced artists and offers

painting supplies, aprons, can-

The Westfield Palm Desert

vas, music, wine and craft beer

mall partnered with Flat Black

for those participating. Admis-

Art Supply to host Project Z on

sion is $25 in advance or $30 at

March 10 that took place at the

first level of the mall, across

from The Coffee Bean & Tea

Leaf.

and really around the world,

which is on display. The free

do to make a true Sunday fun-

munity project to create a mural,

event welcomed the public to be part of the plan by painting

small triangles to fill up the

letters

Walls."

spelling,

"Westfield

The marketing director for

Westfield, Franchesca Forrer

said, "Project Z came out of a

scene of adult paint-by-num-

bers murals that people have

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL

Project Z mural being painted by the local community.

Project Z started as a com-

paint-by-numbers

these."

and we thought it was so cool

the year.

"This is all part of a series

and we were like what can we

of new events that we created

something like this, so we

throughout Westfield. We have

day and it will be by doing

spelled out the whole campaign which has the hashtag

#westfieldwalls."

The Westfield Wall's cam-

paign is an effort to bring more

art to the mall and the commu-

nity. Events started on Feb. 14

and will continue throughout

with Flat Black Art Supply,

they make all of the public art

ect has also brought Graffiti

Night and Family Paint Camp

that are targeted to the local

community with friends and family.

Palm

Desert

resident,

over 60 murals now in and

Claudia Libochea said,"I think

that are going to be coming in-

shopping, they see it, they

around the center. We have another eight massive murals

side the center, and we are

continuing

these

events

throughout the year, these are

monthly events," said Forrer.

it is awesome, it brings everybody

together.

People

are

stop, kids get to do it, grown-

ups get to do it, it is fun for

everybody. This is the third

time we've come to one of

the event.

Family

Paint

Camp

is

a family-friendly event where

children and adults can create

pieces of art at different stations like stencils and spray

paint, stickers and markers,

MOP "drip" calligraphy and

giant paint by numbers numeral. They also have a snack

bar, admission is $5. Those in-

terested in participating can make reservations by calling

760-340-4307.

The next Graffiti Night is

scheduled for April 4 from 6

p.m. to 8 p.m. and Family

Camp is on April 21 from 12

Little League Opening Day hosts safety expo and scrimmage

done throughout the country

The Westfield Walls proj-

BY ROSA GARCIA

can physically and emotionally

hurt them. B2B offers programs

STAFF REPORTER

within its organization to help

those who need it most.

B2B is very beneficial to

On a cool 64 degree Satur-

those needing help. The pro-

day at the Little League Opening

grams include public outreach,

Day event, the Palm Desert po-

school assembly, art therapy, do-

lice and fire department hosted

nations for kids and mentor-

a Safety Expo that sponsored the

ing. "Our programs are free. We

Boo2Bullying organization and

kicked off the day with a softball

game against local news anchors

and reporters.

Dimitri Halkidis, president

and founder of the Boo2Bullying

Organization (B2B) said, “This is our 2nd year at this event. Last

year we were here and we really

loved it. It's a really great way to

do community outreach and

bring awareness to the topic of

bullying.”

The B2B Organization is a

non-profit

group

that was

founded by Dimitri Halkidis in

2011. Located in Palm Springs,

the organization is dedicated to

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL

Families watch the kick-off game for opening day. helping today's youth that expe-

rience bullying and to transform

them into strong and empow-

ered

individuals."11,761

stu-

and

still

said

dents

have

been

helped

throughout our organization Halkidis.

counting,"

“Not only do we help the

kids, but also the parents that

have lost a kid due to suicide.

We also help kids that are bul-

lies, and the kids that are stand-

ing around doing nothing when

they see that. So it's a triangle we

get funded by grants or by the

kindness of families and friends

or donors that really like what

we do," says Halkidis.

The Little League's Opening

Day event went from 9 a.m. to 2

try and educate on all aspects of

p.m. Throughout the day fami-

one,

needs,

of family fun entertainment.

that not only happens at school

kids. There were a variety of

the circle," said Halkidis. The or-

ganization is inclusive for everyLGBT,

special

high-risk students and parents.

but

Bullying is a major issue also

outside

of

school

through cyber-bullying. Today's

youth are greatly affected by

cyber-bullying as these people

p.m. to 2 p.m.

well

as

traditional

ballpark

peanuts, crackers and ice cream.

Staecey Austin, the commu-

nity service officer of Riverside County's Sheriffs Department

said, “This event is a combina-

tion of opening day of little

league baseball and a safety

expo. Including a fun softball

game. It is Palm Desert fire vs.

Palm Desert police with KESQ

and NBC Palm Springs.”

The kickoff softball game

featured television personalities

from NBC Palm Springs and KESQ and was exciting for the

families and the general public

lies enjoyed the little league

to watch. Both news stations

There were bounce houses, face-

nine intense innings, NBC Palm

games, including a wide range

painting, arts and crafts for the

food vendors like E&E Pel's

Lemonade and Orange, an ex-

were partnered with the city's police and fire department. After

Springs

and

Palm

Desert

Fire won the game scoring 5-3.

The grand prize was a pink

flamingo trophy presented by

clusive In-N-Out truck and Mex-

the JW Marriott.

Valley. Those include 16 McDon-

training and assistance for em-

Springs, Starbucks Coffee, The

that can be shared or single bed-

ican delight Los Tio's Tacos as

SafeHouse of the Desert helps homeless youth

BY MELISSA ESPINOZA

ald's restaurants in the valley,

the Fire Station 1 in Palm

STAFF REPORTER

Indio and Palm Desert Boys and

SafeHouse of the Desert has

Girls organization, in addition to

ployment opportunities. They

have two bedroom apartments room for single parents.

SafeHouse is able to provide

its services through the help of

been assisting runaway and

some SunLine buses.

fers a 20-bed shelter for youths

youth as a means of contact to

nities, Desert Health District and

help local youth and their fami-

to travel to Thousand Palms can

from the ground up, and I am

homeless youth since 2008. Lo-

These safe places provide

cated in Thousand Palms, it of-

immediate assistance to the

ages 11-17.

SafeHouse. Any child who is ex-

SafeHouse's mission is to

periencing a crisis and is unable

lies reconnect and have a safe

go into one of these safe places

and fulfilling life.

and ask an employee to contact

SafeHouse Community Out-

reach Coordinator, Birgit Phillips built, we had a SafeHouse out in

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAFEHOUSE OF THE DESERT

Riverside that has been operat-

Safehouse staff in community event.

already the community came to

ties as well as serving as role

ing for now 27 years, but because we had a shelter there

our executive director, the police

and the mayor to talk, to build

one of these out here because we

had a lot of runaway kids and homeless kids, so they thought it

was important that we [would

arts and craft and fitness activi-

models and leaders.

"A lot of kids do come into

Safehouse because it is a family

problem and therefore not only

do the kids that are here get

counseling every day but the

have] a shelter out here as well

family members if it is a family

sends representatives into the

sion is to get them back home as

and so here we are."

The

volunteer

program

community and to inform the

public about the work they do.

They also act as mentors for the

youth. They help with cooking,

matter, they need to come in for

counseling too, because our mis-

luncheon they held on March 14.

Foundation of Stronger CommuThe Coachella Valley Spotlight.

"I saw this building go up

very passionate. I feel like this is

my home away from home, I

love what I do because I see the

that they are here because they

pecially when I go into the

tell an employee at McDonald's

are a safe place site, they call us

help that we give the kids, and

that's really really important, es-

schools, how they come up and

and we'll come to pick them up

hug me and say 'thank you so

SafeHouse and they'll call dis-

about, to help," said Philips.

or they can go in any bus and

much

SafeHouse

has

really

helped, so that's what we're all

talk to the bus driver to come to

and the services for the youth.

the kids here," said Philips.

and intervention services, a

They provide assistance with the

toll-free crisis text line at 844-

auctions as well as a boutique to help raise money for the shelter "That's our biggest event

patch and dispatch will bring

SafeHouse also offers help

that we have and every month

to young adults, ages 18-22.

see what we're doing and if they

Palms. This is a 15-unit apart-

we hold an event with our art

class so they can go online and want to register it is $40, we

have a great night painting or

whatever it is we do," said

ent events, like the" WOW!"

safe places around the Coachella

SafeHouse also holds differ-

California

This event had silent and live

long as they're not sexually or physically abused," said Phillips.

donors like

SafeHouse for them.

"A youth can go and talk to,

said, "Prior to SafeHouse being

their

Philips.

SafeHouse also provides 70

Harrison House in Thousand ment complex that is for young

adults who are or are at risk of

becoming homeless.

Harrison House offers coun-

seling, life-skills training, medical health assistance, financial

SafeHouse offers counseling

three-week emergency shelter,

meals, education and a 24-hour

204-0880. For more information

on SafeHouse visit their website

at safehouseofthedesert.com

Arts & Entertainment

MARCH 25, 2019

Pg. 5

The Chaparral

Local artist and film maker Tysen Knight shares his story

BY ROSA GARCIA

ents enlisted him in the New Jer-

STAFF REPORTER

sey chapter of the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scien-

Tysen Knight, an artist and

tific Olympics (ACTSO). A pro-

filmmaker, discovered his passion

gram is known through the

for art at 11 years old. His art style

NAACP, for gifted and talented

features a combination of draw-

kids. The achievement program is

ings and canvas paintings. Today

designed to recruit, stimulate and

he is a rising local artist in the

encourage high academic and cul-

Coachella Valley.

tural achievement among African-

He was born in Florida and

American high school students.

raised in Willingboro, NJ. He dis-

Representatives

covered his artistic skills when he

of ACTSO travel around the

baseball

country and look for the best-of-

cards."What I would do is doodle

the-best students from each state

would

collect

and draw my favorite baseball

to compete at the nationals held in

players in the front of the paper

Houston, TX. He painted a picture

and then on the back, I would put

of an African queen which placed

all their stats. I would try and du-

him in 2nd in the whole state of

plicate the actual baseball cards."

New Jersey. "The reason they said

said Knight.

they picked me was that they were

By the time Knight became a

fascinated that I was able to imple-

teenager he got into graffiti and

ment that much detail at such a

spray painting. His parents placed

young age. I was the youngest

him in traditional art class where

participant at that time," said

he learned techniques with paint

Knight.

brushes. "I never had formal train-

Going to the nationals at 15

ing, I never went to an art institute

years old was a big step for

or anything like that. A lot of my

Knight. He said, "That piece of the

Two of Tysen Knight’s paintings.

artistic abilities are self-taught,"

said Knight.

for people to like what he had to

his work. People are drawn to art

Street Artist Documentary" was

offer really kept him pursuing his

installations that allow them to go

accepted into the 2019 American

artistic skills.

look for them and it's all free art.

Documentary Film Festival. It will

Knight moved to California

They do not need to pay to see

be showing at the Camelot The-

and currently resides in his Palm

something that is hung on a wall.

ater in Palm Springs April 4.

Springs home. He is a local artist

Tysen said, "That is the new wave.

Knight hopes to inspire stu-

in the Coachella Valley. His art

Canvas and traditional art, that's

dents studying art at College of

style influences go back to the late

all cool, but I think people are lik-

the Desert. "Number one - under-

1970s and mid-1980s from graffiti

ing more interactive art, like

stand what times you are living in

artists like Keith Haring, Jean-

things they can interact with like

and number two, there is so much

Michel Basquiat and pop urban

Desert X."

more opportunity in the art busi-

artists like Andy Warhol and Roy

Aside from being an artist,

ness now, understanding all those

Lichtenstein. Pablo Picasso is an-

Knight is also a filmmaker. "I got

dynamics you have. Surround

other one of his influences. Knight

my hands into a lot of different

y o u r s e l f with other creative

said, "Picasso's later work with all

things. It's not just about painting

people that actually have your

the distorted figures kinda re-

on canvas. I am actually using my

best interest at heart and people

minds me of some kind of graffiti

art in other forms like film, you

that are going the same direction

style."

have to be able to be multi-tal-

that you are and stay focused and

Two-dimensional pop urban, street style is what his current art-

African queen is the one that let

ented in what you do," said

look for clever ways to make your-

Knight.

self stand out. Stay encouraged

work represents. Tysen mentioned

He has won documentary

that the more he gets out of his

awards in Oregon and traveled to

and inspired and just keep going."

Student participates in PS Chalk Art Festival

At the age of 15, Knight's par-

BY ESTEFANIA MOREIRA

PHOTO COURTESY OF TYSEN KNIGHT

PHOTO COURTESY OF TYSEN KNIGHT

Artist Tysen Knight poses with his art pieces.

me know that my talent was wor-

creative mind the more he will in-

France to showcase his film. His

thy." He was getting noticed and

corporate sculpture and 3D into

documentary, "The

Homeless

plete. Despite drawing in an un-

STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR

comfortable way, being surrounded by other great artists in the festival, motivated Nemeth to do her best.

The 9th Annual Chalk Art

Nemeth created a comedic

Festival downtown Palm Springs

yet daring piece called “The Vir-

across from the Palm Spring Art

gin Slut.” The story behind this is

Museum on March 16 with top

a tribute to the artist Giovanni

professionals and student artists

Strazza, who made the marble

of all ages creating pieces of in-

statue

spiration.

Nemeth was inspired by the his-

“The

Veiled

Virgin.”

College of the Desert student

torical stereotype that all women

Bronte Nemeth has participated

are pure and need to remain their

in the chalk festival for two

innocence until marriage. The

years. Having 13 years of art ex-

artist finds this label to women

perience, the 23-year-old has cre-

humorous saying that females

ated her own style that is

are human and shouldn’t be la-

modern, classical and fashion in-

beled to anything in society. The

spired. Majoring in studio arts,

title is supposed to make you feel

Nemeth said, “My art is inspired

with curiosity, humor and bewil-

by fashion and music. I admire

dered.

Lady Gaga, Alexander McQueen

On her way to be a well-

and the art of drag. I create pieces

known artist, she is a diamond in

that bring all these inspirations.”

the rough who is branding her-

Bronte Nemeth's Chalk Art

self and exposing her art to be

Festival piece: “The Virgin Slut.”

Starting at 7 a.m. artist

Bronte Nemeth's Chalk Art Festival piece: “The Virgin Slut.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL

Bronte Nemeth worked until 5

dedication, patience, networking,

p.m. Her work was six-foot-wide

last place wins the hundred dol-

and ten foot long. When you par-

lars with the title “Honorable

ticipate in the chalk festival, you

Mention.”

are given a large number of

seen. Being an artist is not an easy path to pursue, it takes great

Nemeth

does

not

mind

sharp design on her eyebrows.

Nemeth said, “My makeup

way she does her makeup is how I create my pieces. For this event,

and talent to be known.

You can see her work in so-

is the insight of my work, I am

I am using black and white chalk

cial media where you will find

branding myself for the public to

with Lorena’s features in my

original art pieces, fashion pho-

piece.” Nemeth said.

tography and her own makeup

hours to finish and after you

which award she wins or nothing

see that I am my art and this is

complete your work, judges will

at all, her mission for attending

what I love to do.” Bronte’s art

Creating this large piece in

transformations. In a valley that

come and pick a winner. There

the event is because of her pas-

brings a mystical, dramatic with

hot weather is a challenge, the

is driven in fashion, music, clas-

are five awards you, the first and

sion. Artist Bronte was drawing

flair, black and white sensuality.

artist had to do everything on the

sical

high demand artists attend to

with jeans, a dark blue top and

Driven to draw and paint beauti-

ground and be aware of her

Nemeth’s masterpieces are worth

and

modern

culture,

win the thousand-dollar award

wearing her art as makeup. Her

ful women, the artist created a

measurements. Everything is cal-

being in your walls. Follow

and title “Best in the Show,” first

makeup consisted of large red

piece that is inspired by model

culated, you must know where

Bronte Nemeth at Instagram:

place gains seven hundred dol-

lips, on point black eyeliner, dra-

Gina Lorena’s facial feature.

and how you will be creating

the_craft__ and Facebook at

lars, second place five hundred

matic eyelashes, smoky eye-

“Gina Lorena is a beautiful

your art on the ground. Sketch-

Bronte Nemeth.

dollars, third place wins two

shadow with glitter and fierce

model whose facial features I

ing, shading, and coloring in the

find dramatic and sensual. The

piece take great patience to com-

hundred and fifty dollars and the

Opinion

Pg. 6

March 25, 2019

THE CHAPARRAL

BY ERIN HALBEISEN

US suicide, drug and alcohol related deaths hit an all-time high ventable causes, and each time we

make progress—like with prescription

STAFF REPORTER

In 2017, the Center for Disease

Control and Prevention recorded the

highest number of deaths due to sui-

cide, drugs and alcohol since it started

collecting data in 1999.Over 150,000

people died from suicide and sub-

stance-abuse related causes in 2017. This

is double as many from 1999. Analysis

from the report reveals an alarming

conclusion: youths and minorities are the groups being most affected. Al-

though 2017 saw an annual drop in the

percentage of deaths per year, the total number of deaths is at a historic high.

The Well Being Trust and Trust for

America's Health were the two public health nonprofits that performed the

analysis of Centers for Disease Control

and Prevention data. The analysis was

named "Pain in the Nation Update."

Psychologist Benjamin F. Miller,

opioids—new problems—like syn-

thetic opioids—appear. Tackling such a

complex problem is not about adding up small changes – but really about

transformation at a systems level."

The analysis concluded that one of

the largest killers continues to be opi-

oids. More people are dying from opi-

oids today than all drug-related deaths

in 1999. The study declares that more

than 1,000 Americans died from syn-

thetic-opioid overdoes every two weeks

in 2017.

The disturbing results also recog-

nized the suicide rate in children under

the age of 17 had the largest percent in-

crease between 2016 and 2017. "The

greatest increases were found in demo-

graphic groups including young people

(particularly children and adolescents),

Blacks and Latinos. Between 2016 and

2017, suicide death rates for children and adolescents increased by 16 per-

the chief strategy officer of the WBT,

cent," according to the WBT and TFAH.

enough. We should not be satisfied at

7%. The largest suicide rate increase per

said, "It is important to see hope in the

slowing of rates—but it's not nearly

Young adults ages 18-34 saw the

second largest percentage increase at

PHOTO COURTESY AP IMAGES

Addictive substances, including alcohol, cigarettes and drugs. norities while the total leading number

tations put forth by the media.

TFAH did not address are the root

trend seen in the U.S. New movements

of suicides is in whites.

One thing that the WBT and

causes of these deaths. Children today face a lack of social connection and be-

longing caused by our technology and

the media-driven world. They are de-

sensitized by violence, drugs, and alco-

hol in TV and video games. They are forced to try to meet unrealistic expec-

In addition, a lack of awareness for

those with mental illness is an on-going

across the country such as "Send Silence

Packing" brought by Active Minds at-

tempt to break the barrier and open the

door for conversation.

If you find yourself suffering from

this, there is help available at College of

the Desert. Visit the COD Student

Student Services Center, first floor, room

133 for free psychiatric help by licensed

professionals. Services offered range

from stress reduction to crisis interven-

tion.

Office hours are Mon-Thu 8 a.m. -

4:30 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m

Walk-ins are welcome or make an ap-

pointment by calling 760-776-7211. For

help after hours, call the Crisis & Suicide

Intervention HELPline at 951-686-

Scientists warn youth about the dangers of vaping

all. Too many of us are dying from pre-

demographic were racial and ethnic mi-

Health Center located in the Cravens

BY AMBER JUAREZ

HELP(4357)

chemicals found in vape pens can cause cancer.

STAFF REPORTER

Another risk that vape pens pose

is that the batteries can explode. Some

Vaping has gained much popu-

e-cigarettes and vape pens are known

larity throughout the years mainly be-

to have caused fires in the past. Many

cause of social media. Vaping

explosions happened while the pens

today it targets the youth. Many young

William Brown was killed when his

companies used to target people who

were being charged.

wanted to stop smoking cigarettes, but

On Jan. 27 a young man named

people and children like to vape be-

vape pen exploded in his face. Browns

cause they think it makes them look

grandmother rushed him to the hospi-

cool, but what they don't realize is that

vaping is terrible for your health.

Yes, vaping is healthier than

smoking cigarettes, but it is just as ad-

Woman vaping electronic hookah outdoor.

dictive. Vape smoke contains the same

to prevent young people from vaping.

nicotine than an actual cigarette. Many

much attention to the topic and wants

Youth Tobacco Survey in 2018, 20 per-

am officially declaring e-cigarette use

or more nicotine than cigarette smoke,

and some vapes contain a lot more

kids today are addicted to nicotine.

According to the latest National

cent of high school students are vaping.

Surgeon General of the United

States, Dr. Jerome Adams has brought

to prevent young people from vaping.

At a news conference, Adams said "I

among youth an epidemic in the

Health and Human Services Secretary,

United States, now is the time to take

young people rise this rapidly. This is

cluding e-cigarettes."

Alex Azar said, "We have never seen

the use of any substance by America's an

unprecedented

challenge."

Health officials are trying to find a way

BY AMBER JUAREZ

According to BBC news, China

has been hiding Muslim detention

camps which they have locked up ap-

proximately thousands of Muslims ages 20-79 in the western region of Xinjiang.

On Oct. 24, 2018, BBC news conducted

a full investigation of the camps that no

one seems to be talking about because the media has been distracting us from In 2018, satellite images of the

camps were released and showed that

it is built exactly like a giant prison. BBC

news reporters asked locals if they knew about the camps and they said that it

was a "re-education school." A shop-

keeper near the camp said, "There are tens of thousands of people there now.

They have some problems with their

thoughts."

people from all tobacco products, in-

Students as young as eighth

graders are already addicted to vaping.

to cause them health problems in the

future. They are going to suffer from many health issues when they are

rare lung disease that causes a cough

or shortness of breath that worsens

over time.

Two of the most dangerous ingre-

mother, Alice Brown, said that he had

pieces of metal on his face and neck.

The hospital held him for two

days when he passed away. The Tar-

rant County medical examiner stated

that the cause of death was a

stroke after the carotid artery in his

older because early exposure to nico-

dients found in e-cigarettes are called

neck that was penetrating trauma from

Scientists are still researching the

harmful chemical that found in car ex-

the dangers of vape pens, especially the

tine can cause harm to the develop-

ment of the brain.

ingredients found in e-cigarettes. Some

Diacetyl linked to severe lung disease, as well as Benzene that is another

haust and heavy metals like tin, nickel,

of the components are very harmful to

and lead. The chemicals are hazardous

tion, some vape ingredients can

harmful because many children and

the lungs. According to the U.S. Cen-

ters for Disease Control and Preven-

cause obliterative bronchiolitis which

to be inhaling daily.

The liquid found in vapes is also

adults are poisoned by absorbing it

exploding vape pen.

More people need to be aware of

younger generation. Most of the peo-

ple that vape only do it to show off and don't even realize that they are harm-

ing themselves. If people were aware

of the dangers, vape pens wouldn't be

as popular as they are now.

Muslim detention camps found in China

STAFF REPORTER

it.

action. We need to protect our young

addicted to nicotine because it is going

PHOTO COURTESY AP IMAGES

tal moments after the event. His grand-

The locals think that they have

problems with their thoughts because

It is sad to see that many children are

is also known as "popcorn lung." It is a

through their skin or eyes. The other

of their religion. This is evidence that

people around camps were well aware

of what was going on. Also, China has

denied locking up thousands of Muslims several times by justifying their ac-

tions

as

counter-terrorism

and

preventing extremism. This shows that

they believe most Muslims are terrorists when in reality they are not.

State-run television shows in

China air segments of the camps and

makes them look like schools. The seg-

ments show clean classrooms full of students

engaging in

coursework.

"students" at the camps are taught how

to speak and write in Chinese.

With the majority of the Muslim

population in Xinjiang not fluent in Chi-

nese, the camps especially target those

that do not speak Chinese. If these fa-

cilities were schools they wouldn't be

Muslim Indians in China protesting against Muslim detention camps. forced not to wear their headscarves

which is very disrespectful in their reli-

gion. No human being should be

stripped away from their own beliefs. It

targeting one specific group of people,

is unethical to force a group of people to

lims are stripped from their language,

not right to categorize a group of people

it would be open for everyone.

In these detention camps, Mus-

religion, and culture. The women are

learn a whole new language just be-

cause you think they are terrorists. It is

PHOTO COURTESY AP IMAGES

for one person's selfish actions.

cause I want students to be aware of

time this topic is brought up, it seems to

gether we can bring awareness to this

The media has not brought any

light upon this serious matter. Every

be pushed back, and everyone focuses

on celebrity news. People need to be

aware of the severe problems that are

going on in the world.

I am writing about this topic be-

what's going on in the world. Action is

needed to end the detention camps. To-

situation and gain the government's at-

tention to help bring the detention

camps to an end. If nobody speaks up

about this, it is going to continue, and more innocent people will be locked up.

Trending

MArCH 25, 2019

Pg. 7

The Chaparral

Netflix & its future with The Oscars

BY HARRISON BLUTO

it has in the Academy and for

STAFF REPORTER

publicity. Director's that are from minority groups is an example of filmmakers who have been given

Steven Spielberg's concerns

a platform by Netflix.

about Netflix and its movie's

According to AP News, Net-

Oscar qualifications reemerge

flix’s first four major Oscar-nom-

following the near success of the

inated

Netflix exclusive film, "roma," in

"Beasts of No Nation," “The

securing movie of the year

13th,” and “Mudbound," were by

award. The director's opinions on

and about people of color. Many

Netflix's

have

people opposing the potential

served as the face of a larger

Netflix ban, point to this fact as a

movement in the movie industry

means to defend Netflix.

qualifications

films

were:

“roma,"

concerned about Netflix and the

Another reason people are

move to online movie streaming.

against the potential Netflix ban

Spielberg initially opposed

is that they find the theatrical re-

Netflix after last years Oscars has

lease argument to be irrelevant

openly opposed the streaming giant. On his stance, Spielberg

PHOTO COURTESY OF AP IMAGES

Netflix original film Roma has caused a lot of buzz concerning its movie of the year nomination.

says, “I don’t believe films that

when voters typically view the movies on DVD before making decisions.

are just given token qualifica-

spent less than a month in the-

tion of normal movies, and peo-

theaters. Letting everyone, every-

“It’s the effort and heart that

tions in a couple of theaters for

aters before it was released on its

ple are reluctant of change,” said

where enjoy releases at the same

matters,” said COD student Elias

less than a week should qualify

own platform as well.

COD student Cade McKelvey.

time. Giving filmmakers more

Tovar. People like Elias are more

for the Academy Award nomina-

Film writer Mike Fleming

McKelvey is concerned that films

ways to share art. These things

concerned about the content of

are not mutually exclusive.”

the films nominated and not so

tion.” Netflix abiding by the rules

says, “I want to keep theaters

may be denied the recognition

of the Academy is a concern for

around. Also the movie-going ex-

they deserve just because of its

Netflix’s broad accessibility

much the platform it is viewed

many Academy voters.

perience. And I don’t want to see

Netflix ties. This concern is

grants people the opportunity to

on. Whether this sentiment for

According to VULTUrE, the

Netflix’s streaming universe get

shown with people such as Flem-

experience movies which might

heavier enforcement of the rules

two main rules of concern for the

rewarded with Oscars based on a

ing stating that affiliation with

not have been able to experience

or an outright ban is shared by

Academy is Netflix reporting its

symbolic one-week theater open-

Netflix alters their vote.

them before. It also provides a

the Academy will be seen in

box office earnings and the 90-

ing.”

day minimum theatrical time for

By

Netflix

releasing

its

Netflix recently made a

platform for many upcoming

April when they discuss Netflix

tweet in defense of itself concern-

filmmakers who might not get

and its place in the Oscar awards.

the chance otherwise.

its movies. This theatrical time

movies in theaters and its own

ing its qualifications in the Acad-

means that a qualifying movie

platform at the same time, there

emy. “We love cinema. Here are

Netflix's ability to give a platform to upcoming directors is

must be available in movie the-

is a concern that it is undermin-

some things we also love: Access

aters exclusively for 90 days.

ing movie theaters as a business.

for people who can't always af-

appealing to many people and a

Netflix's original film, "roma,"

“It doesn’t follow the tradi-

ford or live in towns without,

significant reason for the support

self, so the rumor isn't too far off from the truth. Also, it seems, no one really reads or buys comic books anymore, which is the sad truth.

Although the comic industry has been around for almost 100 years and is the foundation of what everyone knows today, with Marvel starting back in 1961 and DC Comics in 1934, the future of the industry remains uncertain.

Sid Johnson, owner of Desert Oasis Comics in Palm Desert said, "comic sales slowly but gradually are plummeting."

This can only mean if things continue the way they're going, the industry is in a lot of trouble.

The Publishers at DC Comics have been trying to come up with solutions that don't involve the comic book industry coming to an end. One of their ideas is to have their top artists and writers come up with stories in their new imprint series called "Dark Matter." The Dark Matter Series will try to slowly stop the industry from collapsing by not

having any variant covers and will cost a reader only $2.99.

Emanuel Bautista, a comic collector said, "Comics are an expensive hobby, especially if you want to collect every variant for a series, but the new Dark Matter series could help save readers money."

One of the reasons the comic book industry is failing is because the whole idea of collecting comics and having different variants for the same story is expensive and could be a waste of money. The person buys a certain comic book and then buys the same comic a couple of times because there's a different drawing on it.

With what the comic book industry has been through and all the changes and eras it is still going through, the future for it is uncertain. It could last for a long time or it could disappear in 20-30 years.

The future of the comic industry is uncertain

BY VICTOR MALDONADO

STAFF REPORTER

There's been a rumor that Disney could be shutting down Marvel comics. The rumor started spreading around March 1 and it hasn't been discovered who started them, however, the rumors are false.

According to screenrant.com Marvel's editor-inchief, C.B. Cebulski and chief creative officer, Joe Quesada has said that the rumors were a lie.

However, despite the blockbuster movies bringing in billions of dollars, the print industry, on the other hand, isn't doing too hot itself.

The comic book industry is suffering due to the lack of readers and sales. With the way the industry is going, it seems like in the near future there won't be a comic industry at all. The movies bring in more money than the industry it-

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL

THE CHAPARRAL

Pg. 8

MARCh 25, 2019

Sports

Women's beach volleyball off to a hot start

BY ANTHONY MENDOLIA

ings."

SPORTS EDITOR

Despite the obvious differences, such as the number of players playing and the weather conditions, co-head

After finding success in the in-

coach Detlev Rothe revealed that there

door game this past fall, the women of

is more than makes coaching beach

COD volleyball have also continued

volleyball a difficult proposition.

their dominant play on the sand. The

"As a coach, we are not allowed

beach volleyball team is #8 in the state

to 'coach' during competition on the

and has started the season on an ab-

beach," Rothe explained. "This is a

solute tear, with a record of 7-1 so far

grand departure from indoor where

looking to take their success into the

there is constant feedback during and

early weeks of conference play.

after a play and I am sure that players

The team is led by the "ones"

and fans would say that I'm very loud

team pairing of sophomore Ashtyn

at times. We are allowed to talk with

Lyneis (PShS) and freshman Kesley

the pairs at timeouts, and possibly get

Smith (Delta, BC Canada), who have

a few words in as they change sides

a record of 6-2 in matches this year in-

during a set. I guess the challenge lies

dividually. While being the leaders of

in anticipating what the pairs will

PHOTO COURTESY OF COD ATHLETICS

The beach volleyball team has posted a 7-1 record so far, and look to continue their streak as the

conference slate heats up.

in particular for COD is that they are

disadvantage, fellow sophomore Jo-

coaches and I are extremely proud of

the team, Lyneis particularly knows

need to know, and try to prepare them

located nowhere near a beach, and

marie Viloria (RMhS) believes this

how hard this team works and the

that they cannot just rest on their lau-

as much as possible Monday through

being that the sport is beach volleyball,

team is still very confident going into

dedication they have shown to every

rels.

Thursday [in practice], then just take

all of their away games are on the

conference play.

practice rain or shine," coach Rothe

a seat and watch it play out Friday."

beach.

"I love being a leader," Lyneis said, "but my partner Kelsey and I are

"We're working on small things

said. "Win or lose, on a weekly basis, I

The Roadrunners are beginning

"This is a disadvantage for us be-

like passing to your pop or hitting

know that perspective will not change."

told daily in practice that we have to

their first few sets of conference

cause we do not practice in beach con-

your serve the right way, but for the

prove ourselves to stay at the top be-

matches, and competition will be as

ditions like the rest of our opponents,"

most part we're excited to go play and

cause everyone is targeting us as the

stiff as ever in the PCAC this year.

Lyneis said. "So the biggest thing we

compete," Viloria said.

team to beat. I do like to set the exam-

Four of the six teams in the conference

need to improve upon is learning to

While the conference slate begins

take on Grossmont at 9 a.m. and Palo-

ple of working hard every day, no

are in the top 10 in the state, so the

use nature and its crazy weather to

to heat up, it is clear that the coaches

mar at 2 p.m. Both matches can be

matter where you stand on the rank-

message in practice will be to always

our advantage."

are already proud of what their play-

seen at the Civic Center Park in Palm

ers have accomplished so far. "The

Desert.

will be this Friday, March 29, as they

Tennis player Claudia Stepien is all about winning work on getting better. One challenge

BY MELISSA ESPINOZA

The next two matches for COD

SPORTS REPORTER

Women's tennis season is almost over and one player has

(6-2, 4-6, 6-2) and in the doubles match, where she paired up for

Even with the obvious weather

Ramirez.

The COD women's tennis

the first time with teammate Ana

team is also having a great 2019

Laura Ocho-Castillo to defeat the

season with an overall record of 6-

pair from Mt. San Jacinto (0-4, 7-5,

2 and a PCAC record of 5-1."I

6-3).

think Morgan, our coach, she did

shown that she has what it takes

"I'm a pretty good athlete so

a great job of basically boosting

to be a great athlete. Sophomore

I'm really blessed on that regard

the program because if you asked

Claudia Stepien has had a great

and I like playing all types of

a lot of the girls before the season,

season and she plans to finish

sports so I'm grateful that I have

they had barely picked up a racket

strong.

that ability to kind of maneuver

and now we're over here doing re-

through all the obstacles that I go

ally well this season. It's just really

In the season's last eight games, Claudia has only lost one

through in sports," said Stepien.

cool that the girls have the ability

game on doubles and has had

her teammates also believe

to better themselves and come out

eight consecutive wins on singles.

that she is a great athlete and per-

here and make it a lot of fun," said

She says she fell into this sport by

son. "I've only known her for a lit-

Stepien.

chance. "I've been playing tennis

tle bit of time but from the time

After this season, Stepien will

for about nine years now and ini-

that I've known her, she is really

be transferring to Portland State

tially I just started it because my

hard working and she is really

University, a division-one pro-

mom wanted me to play a sport

dedicated to playing tennis. She is

gram where she plans to continue

and it was the only one that was

a really cool person, she is really

playing tennis.

available where I lived. I tried out

funny once you get to know her

and I really liked it ever since,"

more," said Stepien's teammate,

the season coming up, Claudia

said Stepien.

freshmen Emily Gallegos.

hopes to continue her winning

goal this season is I want to win

same day against Southwestern,

streak and improve her skills as a

[the] Ojai Tennis Tournament. Last

the on March 28 once more against

With the last four games of

PHOTO COURTESY OF COD ATHLETICS

Sophomore Tennis player Claudia Stepien.

She has worked hard as a

"For the last year, year and a

player and this has not gone unno-

half that I've known Claudia, she

ticed. Last year Claudia was

is a really good teammate. She is

"My biggest set back in my

named the Pacific Coast Athletic

really supportive and she is a hard

play is my attitude because on the

and win the whole tournament,"

season, the Roadrunners will go

Conference (PCAC) Female Ath-

worker. She is really dedicated to

court I get super competitive and

said Stepien.

against Grossmont at 2 p.m.

lete of the week after her victories

training and everything. She just

that sometimes [messes] up the

The Roadrunners will be fac-

in the PCAC singles match against

wants everything as perfect as

way I play because I think about

ing off against Palomar on March

Mikeayla hatzopolus from Mesa

possible," said sophomore Daniela

winning too much. My biggest

26 at 10 a.m. and at 2 p.m. on the

player.

year I made it to the quarterfinals.

Southwestern at 2 p.m. and on

This year I want to go all the way

April 2, for their final game of the

Roadrunners continue developing a solid foundation for the program

BY COLIN CHAPDELAINE

ers to use their losses on the

STAFF REPORTER

field as lessons they can use to-

wards progressing as individual players and as a team.

Now over the halfway point

“It’s about building on every-

in their schedule, the 2019 Road-

thing we’re learning,” Walters told

runners are putting their tough

The Chaparral last year, “I’ve told

start behind them as they look to

the team this all along...the ‘L’ can

focus on developing the funda-

stand for lose or the ‘L’ can stand

mentals and playing up to their

for learn. It’s about what you do

competition. Currently sitting at 3-

with the information you gain

20 on the year, the team has had an

from that game."

uphill battle from the start, endur-

As the season approaches its

ing multiple injuries while being

final month, the Roadrunners can

on the receiving end of one of the

look forward to putting everything

they've been working on together

conference's toughest schedules.

"To test ourselves, we have played most of the top teams in Southern California, arguably one

COD baseball is growing with each game this season.

PHOTO COURTESY OF COD ATHLETICS

fornia," said head coach Chris Wal-

on a positive note for next year.

"As for what to expect, we will

continue to work hard at what I

of the toughest schedules in Caliters. "We played many of these

and playing hard to end the season

ing, just disruptive."

The Roadrunners also field

players the fundamentals of the

high level."

see as the new brand of COD base-

game and really develop a strong

This message is nothing new

ball," Walters said. "While we have

teams tough, and several times

one of the youngest teams in the

foundation for the future of the

for Walters or the baseball pro-

made strides, we are not where we

were able to push them to the last

conference with 25 out of 32 play-

program. "We are playing a largely

gram at COD. When Walters was

need to be or want to be."

out. We've done this in spite of in-

ers being a freshman. While this

young roster," said Walters. "We're

interviewed by The Chaparral in

The Roadrunners are back in

curring several injuries throughout

may put them at a disadvantage in

working to build a program that

February 2018, early in his first

action on Tuesday, March 26 when

the year. We have been fortunate

the win column, Walters sees this

plays fundamental baseball at a

season as head coach, he talked

they take on Southwestern in

that none have been season-end-

as an opportunity to teach his

about his desire to teach his play-

Chula Vista for a 2 p.m. game.