Volume 67 Issue 7
thechaparral.net
October 7, 2019
New native tribal college fills educational void BY ALEXANDRO ZATARAIN STAFF REPORTER
The California Indian Nations College (CINC), opened its doors one year ago on Oct. 1, 2018. In that short period, the Coachella Valley’s newest higher education institution has already made a considerable impact on growth alone. The idea of forming CINC has been brewing for over a decade, as school founder Theresa Mike floated it around and created a round table discussion that led to the creation of the CINC Advisory group. This group attracted over 30 professionals in Indian County who supported the idea of a 2-year tribal college in Southern California. Interim President Celeste Townsend, along with Dr. T. Robert “Bob” Przeklasa, the vice president of academic affairs, and two others put together the framework to what they saw as a much needed educational opportunity. Until CINC was created, there was no tribal college available in the state of California. So, creating an institution built for the Native American community
Toni Bakal’s public speaking students at the UCR Palm Desert campus. was the only rational thing to do. When CINC first opened its doors, it had just three courses, four staff members and 40 students. Since then, the college has grown significantly, boasting eight courses and 80 students. The majority of classes are offered at the University of California Riverside (UCR) campus in Palm Desert, and a second location was added at the Sherman Indian High School in Riverside. “Native American students do a lot better in tribal colleges than they do in nontribal colleges,” Przeklasa said. “In fact, students who transfer to a four-year school
PHOTO COURTESY OF TONI BAKAL
from a tribal college are four times as likely to finish their bachelor ’s degrees as those that start at a four-year college.” But some were not keen on the creation of the school. “Some people were questioning how we were going to go about getting students and did not see us attracting any,” said Townsend. The only costs for the students are textbooks. “Our goal is to have 200 students in five years and I know we are going to surpass that,” said Townsend. Accreditation is the longest process they are confronted with at the moment. This is
where CINC’s partnership with College of the Desert comes to play. The Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, which is the same accreditor for College of the Desert and the same body CINC will have to go through to ensure their courses are transferable. If CINC students plan to transfer, then their credits must do so as well. “Since accreditation takes perhaps a decade to achieve, we needed to offer courses in conjunction with an already accredited entity,” Przeklasa said. Through this process, what the Accrediting Commission for Community
are on the way to doubling the square footage of the Indio campus.” White said. “There will be a new childcare development and training center across the street, so not only will childcare be available but those who are studying in that field will have more opportunity to learn and practice their skills.” At the main campus in Palm Desert, several campus facilities and buildings are under construction. The Library and Resources Learning Center is part of the Central Campus Redevelopment project that is already in progress. “You can imagine the nature of libraries across university campuses now are much different than they used to be. It used to be books upon books; those were the primary sources of information.” White said. “But now so much is digital, in a library it’s become important for students to have easy access to the information they need and also have collaboration space. As just one example, the renovated library will have
breakout rooms where several students can work on projects together.” Students interested in joining clubs can take note that there will be less trouble finding a space to meet with as a new section of campus will be dedicated for student clubs. “In the South Annex of the main campus in Palm Desert, the human resources and accounting and financing departments are being relocated and now a large part of that space is going be available for student clubs and organizations to meet and engage,” White said. The Palm Springs campus is one of the colleges most ambitious projects. While some students are taking classes at the temporary campus, a permanent one will be built in place of what once was the Palm Springs Mall. The first phase of development will focus on constructing creative spaces and experiential labs for hospitality and tourism programs as well as film and digital media and broadcasting.
and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) refers to as an incubation partnership, the accreditation is incubating within the body of COD. “We have received a lot of support from Vice President Annebelle Nery, President Joel Kinnamon, and from a number of faculty and staff at College of the Desert,” said Przeklasa. Przeklasa also added that adopting COD program frameworks has been vital in preparing students. “We have mirrored some of those EDGE/pLEDGE activities in that we’ve got our own intensive math workshop coming up in January, and over the summer, we offered our intensive English workshops to prepare students for English 1A and Sociology 3.” CINC will be celebrating the school’s first anniversary on Nov. 9 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the UCR Palm Desert campus. The event, which is named The Gathering Under the Stars, will have free food, native performances, the swearing-in of CINC to the Board of Trustees and Assemblyman James Ramos as the honored speaker. The event will be free and open to the community.
Campus renovations focus on academic needs
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL Bulldozers dig up concrete in front of the HILB in Palm Desert, Oct. 1. in size, and many other BY JACOB SCHULTE renovations are underway as STAFF REPORTER COD reinvests in itself and its College of the Desert student body. students have no doubt noticed Executive Director of the construction across COD Bond Program and Facilities campuses as several important Planning (ED-BPFP), John O. projects progress into the Fall White, talked about some of the 2019 semester. Fences are upcoming facilities renovations wrapped around pathways and expansions across COD on the main campus in Palm campuses including some big Desert and the grandiose additions at the increasingly International Fountain of popular Indio campus. Knowledge is currently dry “Because of how much the while workers make sure it enrollment and activity have meets regulations. The Indio grown in the East Valley we campus is more than doubling
The second phase will start the building of the Center of Excellence, where healthcare and sustainability courses will be the main focus. In the end, the Palm Springs campus aims to have several state-of-the-art courses that help students forge promising career paths in the industry best for them. “The strategic nature of renovating or planning for new facilities always align with what our academic priorities are, which we call COD’s Educational Masterplan,” White said. “It’s the response to what the college has set up as it’s instruction and academic priorities. The facilities [constructed] are preparing the support whether it’s space, buildings, equipment, it’s all a response to what the educational mission is.” For more information on active projects, you can visit a new portion of the COD website by clicking the Bond Program and Facility Planning button on the bottom right corner of the homepage at www.collegeofthedesert.edu.
Palm Springs rings in new AHL franchise
BY ALEXANDRO ZATARAIN STAFF REPORTER
“Today’s a dream, and it’s a dream come true.” With those words from Tod Leiweke, CEO, and president of the National Hockey League’s new Seattle franchise, Palm Springs has officially become a hockey town. On Sept. 30, the city best
CAMPUS - PAGE 2 New ASCOD President
known for its ties to Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe announced that it is the newest home of the American Hockey League, the second tier of professional hockey in the United States. The announcement was made in front of a few dozen members of local media, fans and youth hockey players at the Palm Springs Convention
Center ’s Smoketree Room. In attendance were Tim and Tod Leiweke, the men behind the hockey operations, representatives from the Agua Caliente Band of Mission Indians and Palm Springs politicians. Tod’s brother, Tim, is the CEO of the Oak View Group, a name Coachella Valley residents should get
accustomed to. “This building is going to be beautiful. The vision that my brother and the tribe had was to have the valley’s first professional team,” said Tod as he referred to the new downtown Palm Springs arena Agua Caliente will be building. The 10,000 seat, $250-million, privately-built project is set to break ground
in early 2020 and be opened in fall 2021. “When I see the young guys here who are budding hockey players it makes you think about all these young people in the Coachella Valley that are going to love to come here for the basketball games and hockey games.... See AHL on pg. 8
LOCAL - PAGE 4 Native American POW WOW
A & E - PAGE 5 Photographer Maile Klein
OPINION - PAGE 7 DACA - Supreme Court Ruling
SPORTS - PAGE 8 Women’s Soccer
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October 7, 2019
thechaparral.net
Campus
Meet your new ASCOD president: Yazzmine De Leon
BY OLIVIA HALL
STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR Yazzmine De Leon is the Associated Students of College of the Desert’s (ASCOD) new student body president. De Leon believes she has started the year off strong and shared with us about some of her goals as she takes on her new role. De Leon won the student senate president position by 60 votes in the Spring 2019 semester and is determined to increase student involvement and represent the student voices at COD. Part of the ASCOD president’s job is to attend meetings, such as the Board of Trustees and the College Planning Council. De Leon said she’s had the opportunity during these meetings to play an active role of representing students. ”Even though I’ve only been in this role for a short amount of time, I’ve already seen myself grow as a leader. I wasn’t much of a public speaker before, but since I have to run my own meetings and report to different committees and boards, I’ve learned to speak better in front of others,”
Yazzmine De Leon, ASCOD’s new 2019 - 2020 president. say I’ve accomplished much, said De Leon. because I just started, but I’ve De Leon chairs her own been told that I’ve been more student senate meetings, on top of things compared to where they discuss topics such any president. One of those as events, ways to increase things would be starting the community involvement year off with almost a full and improvement within the board.” student senate. The meetings In recent years, De Leon are held every Monday from said ASCOD struggled with 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. in the Office of membership and is excited to Student Life’s conference room. now see the full extent that it All students are welcome to has to offer. “Not many people attend. know what student senate does, De Leon said she has already and I think it’s really important made great progress. “I can’t
PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVIA HALL for students to know what is happening around campus,” said De Leon. ASCOD’s new president said it’s important for students to understand the many committeess on campus that can benefit them. Many people attend committee meetings including faculty, staff, administrators and students. These committees’ responsibilities range from critical decision making in terms of school policies
to smaller subcommittees that are tasked with specific responsibilities. Within these committees, student representatives are necessary to give feedback to represent the student’s voice. De Leon said ASCOD is also responsible for planning campus events. “ASCOD is in charge of planning events like Club Rush, Club Olympics, Spirit Week and any other event that we decide to throw.” De Leon added, “ASCOD has their own standing committees where a group of people come together to work on a certain task. One of these, is called the events committee. It is chaired by the ASCOD vice-president.” The events committee is responsible for planning events such as time, location, budget, setup and preparation. “Though it seems like a lot of work, it’s actually really fun getting together with others and making something happen.” said De Leon. De Leon want to see ASCOD succeed and with that become a better organization. “ASCOD has always struggled with communicating with the students, but I hope as president I can change that.
Transfer Fair connects students with universities
BY RAMON RAMIREZ STAFF REPORTER
The annual transfer fair took place on Oct. 2, at College of the Desert's Palm Desert campus. The event offered students information about colleges and universities around the country. Schools from all levels attended the event, including UC's, CSU's, and other private schools. Representatives from schools such as Azusa Pacific University, CSU San Marcos, CSU San Bernardino, UC Berkley, UC Riverside and UC San Diego were present as well. Students got a chance to learn about these schools, what they offer and the different options available to them. Scott Cooper, COD's transfer counselor, organizes the transfer fair. He believes it is important for students to know their options, "Students should expose themselves to all the options that are out there. In the United States, there are 4,000 universities and colleges, and in California, we are the largest system of higher education in the United States with over 100 schools," said Cooper. Cooper hopes that the schools at the event made students want to ask questions
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL Students at the Transfer Fair ask questions to gather more infromation about other colleges and universities. see their goal." to be involved and active even about other campuses. For many students, the after the transfer fair is over, The transfer fair is also an transfer fair was an opportunity "Get involved with the transfer opportunity for students to get a chance to see what club and with the 3 college to form a closer connection requirements they need for tours that we have this fall. with the institution they are transferring. COD student These include going to UCLA, interested in by talking with Guadalupe Larios said, "I was UC Riverside, and University the representatives present at thinking of transferring this of Redlands, which are all free the fair. year or next year so I'm trying for students," stated Cooper. "Students can ask any to see what the requirements Graduation workshops are question they want here, are and also asking some of also something students can they get to see that personal the questions that I have about attend when applying to the connection. When you look at a classes and stuff like that." At schools they are interested in. university online, you don't get the moment, Larios is interested a sense of how the school is and Cooper added, "We have lots in UC San Diego because of of workshops and if you have this allows the student to meet its medical program. "They not signed up for, my transfer a representative," said Cooper, have a really good program, plan in Canvas, they should "I really encourage students especially in biology, since I'm so whatever stage they are at to visit a campus before they interested in neuroscience and in terms of transfer. They will attend there." know where they are at and can also because it's really pretty Cooper encouraged students
because of the location, and it just looks like it is a really good school," she stated. The transfer fair also exposed COD students to more options that some might not have known about before. COD student Yoana Montano said, "I'm transferring the fall 2021, and I saw a couple of options that are available." Another important question that was answered during the event was location and costs. "The cost of Humboldt State University is very low compared to other schools and everything that it has to offer, such as the hiking and the outdoor events. This event has helped me financially with what I need to save for and spend. Location and the application process are other ways this event has helped me before I apply to any of these schools," said Montano. For more information about transferring, visit the Transfer Center located on the 2nd floor of the Cravens Student Services Center or visit the COD's website at www. collegeofthedesert.edu
October 7, 2019
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thechaparral.net
Campus
Club Rush promotes student involvement at COD BY MELISSA ESPINOZA
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF College of the Desert’s annual Club Rush took place last week on Oct. 1 and Oct. 2 in the Amphitheater at the Palm Desert campus. The event was lively and colorful with music hosted by KCOD, food, games and numerous activities for students interested in joining the many clubs COD offers. This year’s Club Rush provided students with information from more than 30 clubs on campus including the things they do and what students can expect when becoming a member. The event promoted a variety of different interests and club members encouraged COD students to get involved. An estimated 20 clubs participated including Geology, Alas con Futuro, Trio, the International club and Jesus, to mention a few. All of these
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL From left, Active Minds club President Daniel Rodriguez Trejo and (right) Vice President Ashley Segovia. be able to sell their art at the street fair and use that profit to sponsor field trip to museums, art exhibits and other art related events. The Architecture club, mostly composed of students who are in the architecture and
clubs were encouraging to students and welcoming new members. Vice president of the Art club, Erik Inzunza Aldana said that they are always working on new art projects and one of their goals is to eventually
environmental design program were there. The members promoted leadership and understanding of society. They have also traveled to places like Chicago, Washington and Nevada. Another club present during
DDP welcomes full-time instructor
BY OMAR ROMERO STAFF REPORTER
College of the Desert has hired Mari Abril as the new full-time digital design and production (DDP) instructor. Abril has been a part-time instructor at COD since the fall semester of 2014 and is now looking forward to teaching more students the art of digital design. Abril’s interest in design started when she was young. She loved to draw, and her passion only grew during high school, where she dreamt of designing banners and posters for her school. Later on, Abril made a move from San Diego to Los Angeles, where she attended Cerritos College. Abril loved creating so much that for many nights, she would stay up drawing without realizing it. It was during her time at Cerritos College that she realized that she wanted to do designing for the rest of her life. Most of Abril’s experience in digital design came from when she transferred to California State University Long Beach. She freelanced for many different non-profit organizations such as St. Mary Medical Center, SCAN Health Plan and The Serra Project, as
well as, neighbors, friends and acquaintances. While freelancing, Abril hoped to obtain a permanent job under someone and unfortunately, that did not happen, so Abril decided to start her own business, abrilmedia.com, which has given her a number of clients over time. Abril also started her teaching career in 1995 at Long Beach City College immediately after graduating from California State University Long Beach. Later an amazing opportunity led her to the desert where she started working with Michael Childers, a worldwide renowned award-winning photographer, producer, writer and documentary filmmaker. “Michael puts on a show called ‘One Night Only’, and I help by doing all the marketing material, and this year is befitting the ‘Barbara Sinatra Children’s Center,’” Abril said. Now, as full-time instructor Abril loves that she is able to teach her students about the many opportunities in the field. “They can be their own boss, work for the government, different organizations, go into marketing and do collateral and designing for major companies.
They can create websites, logos, posters, short commercials, animations or be on social media or YouTube,” said Abril. Abril added, “They will learn about copyright laws and ethics. It’s not just about design, it’s about their connection to the expanding global economy, and people to get a sense of community because this will come with a lot of non-profit work. Their jobs are basically opened to whatever because everyone needs some kind of design, so the opportunities are endless.” For students who are interested in digital design, Abril suggests enrolling in some of the DDP courses that COD offers. “When I travel to college fairs and have high school students ask me questions, I talk to the students and ask if they like to draw, do they do design, do they like character animations, and so a lot of these things that the students like to do already they can take classes and build upon what they already know and are able to better their skills. When I teach them, I talk to them about how they can take those ideas and create something of their own.” Abril helped The Chaparral newspaper this semester
Upcoming Work Experience Events Resume Writing for Success
• Tuesday, Oct. 15
From 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m, at the Admin. Rm. 5 & 6
• Wednesday, Oct. 16
From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., at DHS, Rm. 41
• Thursday, Oct. 24
From 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Admin. Rm. 5 & 6
• Thurday, Nov. 12
From 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Admin. Rm. 5 & 6
• Tuesday, Dec. 10 • Wednesday, Dec. 12
From 3 p.m to 4 p.m. at the Admin. Rm. 5 & 6 From 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Admin. Rm. 5 & 6
New stories include... How COD students are preparing for incoming recession It: Chapter 2 review Call of Duty Modern Warfare: flop or cop? Gaming at Agua Caliente Casino
the event was the Accounting club. President Efrain Diaz said he encouraged students to join the club and be part of their new projects. “Currently we’re trying to work on with the Chamber of Commerce to go and sit in during their organizational meetings. That allows our students to go and meet face to face with the business owners around the Palm Desert area,” said Diaz. The Active Minds club also participated during Club Rush. This club was created to help students who are struggling with any mental illnesses and who maybe having a hard time dealing with personal issues. Ashley Segovia who is Vice President of Active Minds said that the club also strives to stop the negative stigmas around mental health and the people who suffer from it. If you missed the fair and are interested in learning more about COD clubs visit the Student Life page at www. collegeofthedesert.edu.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MARI ABRIL Abril posing in her Digital Design and Production (DDP) lab classroom in Palm Springs. transition from Quark software to the InDesign program. The paper has a new, cleaner, more professional look thanks to Abril’s assistance. Her students have created posters and logos for programs on campus including KCOD radio and the film program. “Even as a writer, you need to understand some things about design. You can work for a newspaper or magazine, they use Adobe products, and that is the programs we use for design at COD. We can help you find jobs and internships,
and we help you get certified for free, as of now, whereas it can cost about $120 elsewhere to take each test, and if you fail, you have to repay to take them again. We don’t charge you to take the tests; it is free,” said Abril. ”My goal is for the students to do better than me. I want them to go out into the world and do better than what I did, and that they enjoy it along the way,” said Abril about her hopes and dreams for her students as she starts her new full-time work at COD.
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October 7, 2019
Local
Native Americans celebrate their heritage & traditions ESTEFANIA MOREIRA LOCAL EDITOR
The 29th annual Thunder and Lightning Powwow hosted by Morongo Casino celebrated the traditional Native American culture through dance, music, and art the weekend of September 27. More than 25,000 people attended the event and got the chance to enjoy the highlighted grand entry, the vibrant parade of color and cultural sounding music from hundreds of dancers in traditional regalia, swirling to the rhythm their native dance. Powwows are social gatherings of hundreds of Native Americans who follow traditional dance that started centuries ago by their ancestors. This cultural phenomenon became popular and commercialized by the 1980s. Its attention captivated non-Native American crowds to celebrate with Native Americans. This was one of the most important and traditional events for the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. Michael Fisher, who works for Morongo Casino said, “Powwows are an
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL Native dancers dancing to the rhythm of the drums at the Thunder and Lightning Powwow the weekend of Sept. 27. opportunity for tribes to share their culture with others, and for our guests to experience the distinctive cultures of Indian people firsthand. As a social gathering, it’s also a chance to see old friends, meet new people and reaffirm traditions and old ways.” The Native celebrations emerged in the 21st century when Native Americans wanted to return old traditions and gatherings. The demand for the old terms, original cultures and customs began to
appear in both competitive and non-competitive events. This is where the traditional colorful dances came to the modern era while bringing back traditional music, in hopes of renewal the interest in the ancient ways. This year’s event began with the presentation of colors, starting with an Eagle Staff, American flag, the California flag, and the Morongo Tribal Flag. Dancers across North American and Canada participated in this event; more than 75 vendors worked to
provide food, water and nonalcoholic drinks. Vendors were selling Indian tacos, tamales and fry-bread, beautiful Native American jewelry, as well as, beadwork, pottery, clothing and basketry. Native American artist and jewelry bead vendor Raymond Trujillo who goes by the name Mr. Woo, has come to the Morongo Powwow every year and said, “I took what I learned from my grandmother and mixed a nerdy and native style to create native designs.”
Trujillo’s native designs are a combination of anime, comics and iconic animations that we know today created in an authentic cultural design. Jewelry vendor has also attended the Powwow many times and sells her mother’s jewelry beads and feathery dream-catchers. “My mother creates different dream catcher designs you won’t find anywhere else,” she said. A Powwow event is not the same if it cannot express a story through dance and singing. The tribal dancers were singing bird songs. Birds singing is the song and dance of the Cahuilla Indians chronicle experiences and responses of the Cahuilla people as they migrated to the South. Through bird metaphor, allegory and visual art, the songs are also lessons which instruct tribal members about their experience and the different stages of their lives. The beauty of Powwow gatherings and celebrations are found across North America with the motto: Honor, Respect, Tradition, and Generosity. Powwows are to be shared in society and to celebrate the culture and its beginnings.
Film and television experts speak at PSWIFT brunch
BY GAIL PISCHAK
STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR The Palm Springs Women in Film and Television (PSWIFT) hosted a Filmmakers Brunch at the Acqua California Bistro on Sept. 28, 2019. Those attending were delighted with the seven industry experts from Los Angeles who shared their experiences relating to the brunch’s theme, “Film as a team and the flow of the show.” What made the conversation so rich and informative was that the panelists represented all aspects of filmmaking from both sides of the camera. They included production and set designers, a costumer, directors and actor/ producers. Each industry expert talked about their unique journey and how they got started in the film business. They also helped the audience to appreciate how production sequencing and collaborative teamwork have a direct impact on the quality of the filming that goes on in front of the camera. Filmmaking is complicated because it requires mastery from both the creative storytelling side and the business logistic side. Management skills are required for virtually every
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL (left to right) Stefan Colson, Danielle Bisutti, Megan Fenton, Sheri Davani, Ashley Fenton Kristopher Polaha and Brittany Cormack. many more. deadlines. job in Hollywood, but very Cormack talked about how Brittany’s favorite part in few people have direct she initially meets with the the process is the first time training in management and director to understand their she dresses an actor to become leadership skills. There was vision for the movie and how their character. “I love putting unanimous agreement that to costumes will be developed on the pieces of their costume be successful on the creative based on the script, the film’s for the first time. It’s like storytelling side, a film’s watching the character being foundation is grounded on the color palette and the budget. She then goes out and talks to born right in front of you.” business side and excellent set designers, lighting artists, One of the panelists management skills. hair and make-up artists, summarized the essence of The best example of producers and of course, the collaborative teamwork as collaborative teamwork came actors. seeing people who do their from the costumer, Brittany Once she has an work with each other in the Ann Cormack. She has been understanding of what best possible way to achieve involved in the business for everyone wants, she draws filming success. That means over 25 years and has dressed up the costume boards no ego, leaving differences many celebrities for films for review and approval. off the set and sorting them including James Caan, Mira It’s a complicated process out offline, being proactive Sorvino, Vivica A. Fox, Chad usually achieved under tight and creative when solving the Lowe, Donna Mills and many,
myriad of challenges that arise every day and being willing to jump in and help whoever, whenever. The best advice that panelists offered was if you are interested in making films, pull together your production team early on in your budding career. Nurture them and help them develop professionally. Stay together, grow together. Make films together. Often the best films come from longstanding collaborations within the production team. Women in Film is a notfor-profit organization that is dedicated to helping women and men achieve their highest potential within the film and television industry. Student filmmakers are encouraged to join. It’s a great way to begin developing professional networks and the annual membership fee is only $25. The next big event for the Palm Springs Women in Film and Television is the Broken Glass Awards on Nov. 4 at Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa in Rancho Mirage. PSWIFT will be awarding the first Denise DuBarry Hay Scholarship. The event sells out quickly. Tickets can be purchased online at www. pswift.org.
Local schools implement new security measures
BY OMAR ROMERO STAFF REPORTER
Now more than ever, guns have become a polarizing issue in America. With mass shootings, crimes, suicide and violent acts committed; a disheartening aspect is that some take place at numerous school grounds across the country and sometimes in the Coachella Valley. In recent years, however, the measure have been taken to be better equip schools and protect students.Jason Turletsky, a special education teacher who works at Shadow Hills High School, has been teaching for seven to eight years agreed to give his insight about school safety regarding students, especially those who suffer
from disabilities. ”Student safety is the main priority. We have numerous drills over the course of the year to ensure safety. We have particular protocols that I am unsure if I should share or not, that enable us to protect the students and ourselves included,” said Turletsky. Today many parents and students worry about going to school. With many shootings happening so frequently, students find themselves stressed and fearful of school. “Well, that starts with recognizing any signs of stress from the teachers or paraeducators so the student(s) will not devolve into hysteria. From my personal experience, I hope to recognize any signs so I may calm them before they get
too out of hand,” said Turletsky, “But if I see another student in trouble or someone else, who is apart of my school, I’d make sure to comfort them and aid them to hopefully lower their stress levels. I’d also make sure to see if they are safe and any others that may be around them, and proceed from there.” Schools are now implementing their own safety protocols and are often improving safety measures to keep students and staff safe. “I believe there is always room for improvement. I believe that everyone is open to new ideas and innovations about how we can update the protocol’s. What I find cool is that where I work, they are always trying to develop new concepts to keep the protocol updated,
but that is just my personal perspective,” said Turletsky. Some schools are also implementing ALICE; the active shooter response training. Maria Contreras, a kindergarten teacher at the Coachella Valley Unified School District, said the ALICE training course protocols are part of the regular teacher training guidelines. She also mentioned that the old procedure was just to turn off the lights, hide out of sight and make no noise, but ALICE teaches how to fight back in case the perpetrator forces themselves in the classroom. It also teaches how to detect a gunshot, how to disarm the criminal, encourages throwing objects and how to barricade the doors and windows.
”As a kindergarten teacher, it scares me and I hope I never experience a situation like this, but I am glad for the training because I feel confident that I will be able to protect my students,” said Contreras. ”The kids listen when I tell them. I teach them at a slow pace to not scare them and misinform them, but they take everything in. I tell them that if something happens to me, they have to get to safety and call the office and 911. Sometimes they laugh when I am talking about this, but I see that they are taking everything in and they know where all the emergency kits are, what is around the classroom and what they can use, and that they can protect themselves if someone wants to hurt them,”said Contreras.
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Arts & Entertainment
A snapshot of photographer Maile Klein
BY CHLOE STRICKLAND STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR
After a whirlwind of a photography career, Maile Klein began teaching photography at both the high school and college levels to give back to her community. Klein commutes from Orange, Calif., where she teaches high school students to Palm Desert where she works as an adjunct instructor of photography at College of the Desert. Klein has been teaching photography for 14 years and has worked as a professional photographer for 30. Klein went back to school for a communications degree with an emphasis in photography. “I always loved to teach,” said Klein. She says her favorite part is when her students finally understand the basics of film photography, like shutter speed and aperture, “After that their creativity turns loose and that is
so rewarding.” Klein said. Klein said her favorite times as a photographer were while she was attending college. She said she was creative and was making good money. Between COD and her high school job, she is working full-time, but she still shoots private events and portraits. Before teaching, Klein started out shooting for special events such as weddings and candids. She was also a firefighter; she became her fire department’s photographer for 15 years. After the fire department, Klein’s work became especially popular here in the desert as she was one of the few professional photographers at the time. Klein has photographed The Palm Springs International Film Festival, The Desert Aids Project and The Betty Ford Center. She there personal photographer of the late
philanthropist Jackie Lee Houston for many years while also snapping shots of Barbara Sinatra and other celebrities. Klein first got interested in photography when she was in junior high and would shoot pictures of her friends using her dad’s camera. “I knew I was destined to work with images as I was always very visual and seemed to lean towards the arts,” Klein said on her website. She originally wanted to make films but quickly found a passion for photography. With today’s media and technology, anyone can take a picture, but Klein insists that photography will never die. “I don’t think 35mm photography will ever go away, or the need for a professional photographer. The new cameras will continue to come out, but the generations will continue to use the old point
Klein taking a “selfie”in front of a mirror. and shoots,” said Klein. To learn more about Maile Klein’s work visit her website at
PHOTO COURTESY OF MAILE KLEIN www.mailekleinphotography. com.
Joker is already praised before hitting theaters
BY ADRIAN SALCEDO STAFF REPORTER
DC universe fans have been excited for the upcoming Joker movie ever since it was announced a couple of years ago, and now, even the non fans are excited for the iconic comic book villain getting his stand-alone movie. When the first trailer came out around April of this year, fans started having discussions and making theories of what the movie might be about, especially because this movie is a standalone and new origin Joker story. The insane clown has had multiple origin stories, one of the most iconic is Batman: The Killing Joke. On this comic briefly showed the Joker’s origin and it is similar to what was presented in the trailers and what the story might be about for this movie. The Joker is directed by Todd Phillips, who is known for directing the Hangover series, War Dogs and one of last year’s most awarded movies; A Star Is Born. The Joker or Arthur Fleck, as he is known in the film, is being portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix. The actor has received awards such as a Golden Lion award, and has been nominated for three Academy Award. Phoenix has given good performances for many of the roles he has played. So to see him portraying a comic book character for the first time will
BY CARLOS GARCIA
PHOTO COURTESY OF AP IMAGES Dir. Todd Philips. holds the Golden Lion for Best Film for ‘Joker’, joined by lead actor Joaquin Phoenix at the 76th edition of the Venica Film Festival Sept. 7. 2019. be interesting, especially when Phoenix stated “I wouldn’t say it’s a superhero movie or a studio movie…It feels unique, and I think more than anything, and probably the most important thing is Todd seems very passionate about it and very giving, so that’s exciting.” Well from the look of the trailers, and the direction the movie is heading towards it seems like the movie might be critically acclaimed before hitting theaters. Movie critics are already praising the movie and are giving it more credit then it probably deserves. Some critics gave it praised and made comments like,“You’ve never seen a comic book movie like Joker.”
One Rotten Tomatoes critic said “Joker gives its infamous central character a chillingly plausible origin story that serves as a brilliant showcase for its star, and a dark evolution for comics-inspired cinema.” You also have critics like Brandon Davis stating, “Phoenix’s laughs his way through terrible scenarios. For this, the actor demands an Oscar nomination and it might not be the only nod this DC Comics movie earns. The cinematography, score, and direction create something unlike anything before it – and it’s terrifying, thrilling and moving.” The movie will be in theaters Oct. 4, but it made its debut
at the Venice Film Festival on August 31, where it received the Golden Lion award, which is considered to be the highest honor at the festival. While these comments, praises, and awards for the movie sound convincing, it’s still easy to dismiss when the movie has not come out in theaters yet. The critics do have a say for what they feel but the big question is, will the movie have the same impact on mainstream audiences who are comic book fans or not? Will the movie amaze the audiences and live up to the hype? Fans are already excited for Joker and have high hopes that the movie will turn out to be what it is set out to be.
COD student Dakota Diaz said, “I think the joker movie is going to be a big success, because of how the director and actor have very successful careers on their own. Also, this is considered the first rated R movie since Watchmen. I believe it will be a good movie, especially its been turning out and how the trailers presented themselves with music production and cinematography.” Joker fan Lindsey Gilbert said, “I’m excited because judging from the trailers, it’s a fresh backstory of a mysterious character we know nothing about other then he likes chaos. It’s like we are going to see him go through phases and wonder what will make him crack, and what will break him. The trailers showcased that he is going to different stages of insanity and I am curious what will be the final nail to the coffin.” So, there you have it, this movie has critics praising it and has already received an award before the DC fans of the insane prince of crime have a chance to see it in theaters. The excitement and high hopes of this movie have many believing that it will be one of the best comic book movies and probably the best movie of 2019.
Marks Arts Center presents Stonewall 50
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR The Marks Arts Center will be hosting its second art gallery this fall semester. This new exhibition is titled, “Stonewall 50: Half a Century of LGBTQ Activism.” Visitors are welcome to visit from Oct. 14 to Nov. 14. A reception will be held on Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Art pieces ranging from all sorts will be showcased at the gallery. The exhibition is based on the famous Stonewall riots, which happened in Stonewall Inn, a gay bar located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. On June 28, 1969 an LGBTQ group fought back against a police raid at the bar. The demonstrations and riots that followed after are considered by many to be the beginning of the gay liberation movement in the United States. At the time, the LGBTQ community suffered from major discrimination from antigay policies by the government and racism and violence from
people. Today the community still suffers from these issues; however, major advances have been made on the LGBTQ community after the Stonewall riots. Acceptance of the community is now larger and louder than 50 years ago. Stonewall will come to the desert thanks to COD’s new Art Gallery Director, David Goetz. “I’m feeling very excited because this was a last-minute event. We had some other things lined up. This was spurred on because I went to New York this past summer, and everyone was celebrating the 50 years of Stonewall. Including the Metropolitan Museum of Arts and the Art Historical Society of New York. It was just a milestone for the LGBTQ timeline. That’s why when I came back, I decided to celebrate that here as well and bring that history to the students, faculty and all of the community.” said Goetz. Plenty of art pieces were chosen and are still being chosen. “The images are very powerful; many of these paintings and photographs are
Piper Scotts 2019 Acryllic on Canvas titled “LOSES ITS LUSTER” personal. Stories from people who actually lived the LGTBQ experience, and I hope it would be enlightening for the viewer [audience],” said Goetz. The Marks Art Center will be accepting submissions until Oct. 7. “We are inviting everyone to join us. We
have a very big LGTBQ community throughout the Coachella Valley. This is a good opportunity for College of the Desert, to share this wonderful history,” said Goetz. For more information on the Stonewall 50 gallery, visit the College of the Desert website at
PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID GOETZ www.collegeofthedesert.edu, or visit the Marks Art Center Instagram at @marksartcenter. For more questions or inquiries, you can email David Goetz at dagoetz@ collegeofthedeset.edu.
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thechaparral.net
Student Life
October 7, 2019
What freshmen fear most BY DAVID OLIVAS
STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR High school graduates often enter their first year of college with a lot of fears. As these students make the transition from high school to higher learning institutions they sometimes get overwhelmed with the change. While first-day jitters are pretty common, many students enter college facing more significant fears. Scott Cooper, COD’s transfer counselor says these fears are real. “The students worry most that they won’t finish their courses, that they won’t get their classes, that they will be here for a long time and if they didn’t do well in high school that it would carry on to college.” Trisha Valdez is a freshman studying journalism at COD. She said she worries a lot about balancing school, life and staying focused. “I worry I won’t be able to complete the courses I need to graduate on
BY HECTOR LEYVA
COD freshmen Brian Upper and Trisha Valdez preparing for their radio production class. time.” Freshman, Daniela Garcia said her main fear in college is her bigger workload,“I’m keeping up with larger amounts of work that I wasn’t typically used to in high school and managing self-freedom in college.” Garcia doesn’t think these fears will hold her back because she’s determined to reach her goal.
Alicia Wilson is a freshman who hopes to transfer to UC Irvine. She said being a first-generation student in her family is a lot of stress. “There is a lot of pressure to do well in school, but I put the pressure on because I see the hard labor they go through,” Wilson said her biggest fear is being homesick when she transfers. Freshman film major Brian
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL
Upper is 36-years-old. He said coming back to college and not finishing makes him nervous, especially after being out of school for so long. There are many students of all ages attending COD; however, according to the school’s institutional research department, the majority of enrolled students for the fall 2019 semester are between the
ages of 19 and 24. Freshman Alexis Durazno said his professors make him afraid, “My instructors can be a little mean about homework and what they’re teaching.” But he’s not letting this stop him, “These fears aren’t going to hold me back or interrupt because I believe my instructors or classmates are going to help me, I’m pretty sure I will overcome my fears.” Cooper sees many freshmen come to COD and succeed. He said freshmen don’t have to be afraid. “They’re insecurities, but in all accounts they are incorrect, students that come in with a college mindset are going to do well.” Are you a freshman? What are your biggest fears? College of the Desert has resources available to help students transition from high school and the workplace to college life seemlessly. No matter what your fears are, there is help on campus. If you need assistance, visit the counseling center located in the Cravens Student Center.
Students reveal their favorite instructors
STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR College of the Desert offers a variety of courses, programs and certificates for students in many different fields. Along with the many courses are great instructors who teach and share their insight and expertise. To learn more about COD’s faculty and classes, we asked students to share who their favorite instructors are and the courses they enjoy most. COD student Adriana Ramirez said, “My favorite class was Intro. to Sociology because it gave me a fresh and different perspective on interactions with people.” She loved Professor Marissa Bañuelos because she taught sociology while respecting the students’ personal beliefs. Ramirez said the one thing she will take away from the
course is that “Different people have different outlooks on life, and their way of thinking may be very different from your own. Alexander Salazar said, “That’s a tough one, but I think I’d have to go with the English class I took last spring.” Alexander loved the in-class assignments but didn’t care for the professor. Alex said, “Sometimes he was really passive aggressive, and I didn’t like that.” Salazar did not want to mention the instructor’s name. It was his favorite course because he made very close friends in that class. Student Ben Beltran said, “Well, I’m a theatre major, so Acting I.” He had not taken any acting classes before. Beltran highlighted his professor’s passion for teaching, “Professor Sylvia Layne really knew what she was doing, she would assign different projects, and
she really connected with me.” Colton Hodge said,“Geology with Mr. Burns was pretty cool.” Colton acknowledged the class was difficult, but the lectures were fun because he always talked to his classmates. He pointed out that Richard burns, a COD geology professor made the class worth it. He said, “Older teachers make a joke and it would come off so cringy, but his corny jokes were funny.” Francisco Vizcaino said, “It’s my first year here, and I really like My English I class so far.” As a first-year student, he enjoys the campus, and the people. English comes naturally to him, and he really likes his teacher because he is relatable. Vizcaino did not mention the instructor’s name. Guadalupe Yañez said, “It was only a one credit class, but I liked Strategies for College Transfer.” She said that it was
only an eight-week course taught by COD’s Transfer Counselor Scott Cooper. She described the professor as, intelligent, organized, informative and cool. “If I wouldn’t have taken the class, I would have no idea how to transfer.” Kevin Fuerte said, “If I had to pick a favorite class, I’d probably go with ASL.” That class was different from any other he has taken because the learning was visual. He clarified that his American sign language professor, Mr. Thomas O’Grady was blind himself. “A lot of people don’t really know much about blind people, but they have their own culture that you could really be exposed to.” Nataly Garcia said, “Out of all the years I’ve been here, my favorite class would have to be Intro to Film,” she said. “The course exposes you to
films you would never consider watching. “She describes film instructor Kevin Lyons as easy going and relatable. Films that stood out to her include Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction and Alfred Hitchcock’s Rear Window. The student interviews took place where many COD students tend to spend most of their free time including Beeps Cafe, the presidential hall, the Cravens Student Center, the Communication building, the COD Library and at the ping pong tables near The TASC Center on campus. The amount of years that each of these students has spent at the college varies but the consensus seems to be the same, there are many courses taught by good professors, and a place where students say strong bonds are built.
Student shares frustrations with online learning
BY BRIAN MORAN
STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR Who struggles with the lack of structure an online course can create; the students, or the professors? It seems online instructors have free reign and lack of accountability. This can create a chaotic learning environment for those of us who have no choice but to further our education online. As a 27-year-old stay at home dad, online courses seemed to be a perfect solution to feeling unproductive. I was surprised to find out that COD offered online courses because when my high school career ended in 2006, online courses were in their infancy. I enrolled as a full-time student and waited for my classes to publish on Canvas so I could find time to get the required textbooks. I waited. And waited. And waited some more. Until finally, on Sunday, less than 24 hours before courses started, the classes were published. Books were required in two of my classes by the next day.
COD student Brian Moran working on his online English assignments. You take online courses because you can’t get to campus, so you can imagine how difficult it was for me to get myself to campus with an eight-month-old daughter and no access to a vehicle during business hours to buy books I should have been able to purchase weeks prior.
When it comes to coursework, my experience has been pleasant, except for English courses. I don’t know what our English department has against online students, but they neglect us so blatantly Child Protective Services should be involved. My first semester I, took English 001A.
COD CRIME REPORT
Slashed Bicycle Tire - Sept. 16 - A student’s bicycle tire was slashed at the Applied Science Building.
Property Damage - Sept. 23 - Unknown person hit the passenger side of a student’s car and did not leave information.
Vandalism: Graffiti - Sept. 16 - Grafitti found on the West wall sign at the library (Rm. 109).
Graffiti - Sept. 23 - Graffiti on the men’s restroom door in the Applied Science Building.
Battery - Sept. 17 - PSD received a call from Property Theft - Sept. 25 - Person took a small assistant professor of HVAC regarding two male section of the grill from a Ford Explorer parked in students arguing inside the classroom, resulting in Lot 28. one student being struck.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL No modules were ever set up, and communication from my professor was almost nonexistent. This professor did not grade any work until after the semester was over. I navigated my first English course in twelve years, completely unsure how I was doing, or how I could improve.
This semester I’m having the same issues with a different English professor. This past week, I sent the professor an email on Wednesday, because no assignment had been posted yet. The response I received was “I’m sorry I’ve been trying to catch up from the hecticness of the first couple weeks of school.” Assignments for that week were posted that night, but still due on Saturday. Does that excuse work for the student? We are at the absolute mercy of professors who are not held accountable for the quality of their online teaching environment. I am grateful College of the Desert offers online courses because it is the only way I could further my education right now, but the college’s shortcomings can’t be ignored. I feel like my education is less important to the faculty than the students who are able to physically be on campus. Online students pay the same tuition as on-campus students, we deserve the same quality of teaching.
October 7, 2019
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Opinion
What will happen if DACA is terminated?
BY AMBER JUAREZ COPY EDITOR
On Sept. 15, 2017, the Trump administration announced they were terminating Deferred Action for Documented Childhood Arrivals (DACA). DACA is an immigration policy that was created during the Obama administration. The policy allows immigrants who were brought as children, to stay in the United States. DACA recipients, also known as dreamers, receive two years of deferred action from deportation and a work permit. There have been more than ten cases against the Trump administration’s decision to terminate DACA. Since these cases were filled, three nationwide orders have been issued by the District of Columbia, California and New York district courts. These three courts are allowing previous DACA recipients to renew their Deferred Action. In late January, President Trump decided he would leave the decision of DACA up the Supreme Court. Trump said, “I could see myself doing something for DACA but I want to find out what the Supreme Court is going to do first.” By Trump saying this, it shows that he truly doesn’t care
DACA recipients and supporters marching to the Capitol in Washington D.C on March 5, 2018. about this immigration policy. The Trump administration should not have filed to terminate DACA, because it is a policy that is meant to protect the rights of individuals that came to this country at a young age. A majority of Dreamers have lived most of their life here in the United States and for that to just be taken away from them is not right. These Dreamers have done nothing wrong. President Trump and his administration have done nothing but make people live in fear of being deported. A College of the Desert (COD) student who wishes
to remain anonymous said, “I’m scared and worry about what’s going to happen to DACA because I’m happy I have the opportunity to go to school here. Without DACA, I wouldn’t be able to go to school and work.” If the Supreme Court terminates, DACA, thousands of Dreamers will be deported and have to restart their lives in another country. Most of the Dreamers were raised as Americans and are unfamiliar with the customs of their native country. It would be a complete culture shock for them because it is a new environment.
PHOTO COURTEST OF AP IMAGES
COD has a new Dreamer Resource Center. Many wonder what will happen if DACA is terminated. Rubi Becerril Gonzalez, a COD outreach specialist said, “Although we hope a positive result when the Supreme Court takes on the case for DACA, their decision will not affect what happens to the Dreamer Resource Center. California, as well as our campus, is committed to supporting all students regardless of immigration status.” Gonzalez added that the DACA decision on a federal level has no effect on the state
laws, which means the Dreamer Resource Center will continue to help Dreamers. Gonzalez said, “The current services and support provided by the center will continue, we hope to expand them.” If DACA is terminated, it will only affect individuals on a personal level. “It would affect undocumented individuals with DACA at the personal level. It would prevent them from having or renewing employment authorization, and the delay of deportation would no longer be valid. I am not a legal expert, so I cannot comment further if this was to happen. However, their educational opportunities in California would not be affected,” said Gonzalez. The Supreme Court will make a final decision by June 2020. For the time being Dreamers do not have to worry about being deported because the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services are still required to accept and process DACA renewal applications. If you have any questions or need help, visit the Dreamer Resource Center located at South Annex 1 on the Palm Desert campus.
Why sleep is important for college students
BY ESTEFANIA MOREIRA STAFF REPORTER
College students today face many problems, but there is one problem most students have, lack of sleep. According to The Centers for Disease and Prevention or CDC, an estimated thirty-five percent of adults lack sleep and are not meeting the seven-hour recommendation. Lack of sleep for college students is highly prevalent, and many are not aware of mental side effects which can harm their overall health. Many College of Desert students admitted to being overworked, they are loaded with homework assignments, take on parttime or sometimes full-time jobs, try to put the time in to study for midterms and exams, and some even try to have a social life. COD’s Liberal Arts major student, Wendy Rodrigues said she does not get enough sleep, “I stress out on upcoming dates, on assignments and exams. They pop in my mind when I am trying to sleep. I think about them all night, and I realize I stress so much that I am not sleeping.”
ADRIAN SALCEDO
Most college students pull all-nighters and cram before an essay, midterms or finals. Some students, are not used to the fast pace and extended assignments in classes such as English, Science, or Math. Freshmen English major, Adriana Pimentel has to balance school, sleep and his parttime job at his family’s business. “All the work that is piled up from my classes has ruined my sleeping schedule. English has me writing a lot of essays in a way which is new to me. My challenge is time, but I am trying to find a balance between sleep and school,” said Pimentel. Sleep experts have concluded the biggest mistake, is when students treat sleep as if it’s a luxury rather than a necessity to one’s health. When a student pulls an all-nighter for more than two days and continues, this leads to sleep deprivation. When the brain is sleep deprived, an individual is more “prone to strong emotional reactions to negative stimuli according to the book “Discovering Psychology.” A person’s mood is profoundly affected. They will become
over-emotional towards a situation and will lack wise decision making. Depression, anxiety, low immune system, metabolic changes, and obesity are linked to sleep deprivation. Sleep is important for many reasons. Despite researchers not having a profound answer to “why we sleep,” scientific researchers have proven why sleep is key to our overall health. For example, sleep helps the immune system; it improves function and memory and helps with a student’s academic performance. According to Harvard Medical Studies, there are fundamental ways you can help yourself if you are suffering from lack of sleep. After all, working on sleep is important, and learning how to manage your sleep habits while attending school and work schedule, you’re doing your brain a fair. Here are important tips to increase adequate sleep: Changing your intake choices-While most of us enjoy having any caffeine, this psychoactive drug is extremely addictive. Caffeine contributes to sleeplessness. Alcohol and
nicotine use can also lead to insomnia. Giving up a few of these substances is best but also avoiding them before sleep will help. Be Active- Exercise and physical activity help people sleep faster. It helps a person go in REM sleep, which is deep sleep. Meditation- Relaxation techniques increase focus and awareness. Deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation can help with anxiety and also racing thoughts that interrupt sleep. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-People who suffer from insomnia have trouble
PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES falling asleep. This type of therapy helps build better ways to fall asleep, and special techniques are given for those who suffer from insomnia. Sleep Hygiene-this is a term used to maintain a regular sleep schedule and tips on using the bedroom only for sleep, intimacy and keeping the bedroom dark with no light or auditory interruptions to sleep better. College students need to start changing their sleeping habits for better health and better academic performance. It may feel impossible but is all about management and self-care.
Online shopping “hurts” GameStop business
STAFF REPORTER
For many years GameStop had been the business to provide everything games related to the many gaming fans in the country, whether they played Xbox, Playstation, Nintendo or PC. GameStop was the store that people went to buy video games, consoles or PC related Tech. However, as the rise of online shopping and digital games, has customers buying their games online rather than buying physical copies, which is probably why GameStop is now slowly losing its business. GameStop opened its doors in 1984 in Dallas, Texas, as a small educational software store. It was formerly known as Funco until it changed its name to Gamestop in 2000. As video games became more popular, the store was the place
for people to go and purchase their games or anything gaming related. Of course, there are other stores that sell these things like Wal-Mart, Target, and Best Buy. But what brought customers to GameStop was not just the new games it sells, but they also sell used games which are sold at cheaper than the original prices. You could get a game for 20 dollars or lower depending on how well the game sold at full-priced. Now with online gaming and digital purchasing, it seems that these have become more frequent and add convenience for customers to buy any video game-related online. And on Sept. 10, 2019, GameStop announced that it would be closing down 200 stores and more could be closing in the next 12 to 24 months. GameStop blames the
closing of their stores to online shopping and digital sales of games, but despite that, it seems that some customers are still going to the closest GameStop location to buy used games, gift cards, and merchandise, but most of the new games that come are purchased online. In a CNBC article written by Joshua Fruhlinger, who is the editor-in-chief of Thinknum Alternative Data, wrote that there will still be some GameStop stores nearby for customers to go to. “They will still have a number of options within a five-mile radius, or at most a 20-minute drive, to choose from.” While this is true considering that every city from the smallest to the biggest, even if they’re kind of barren, there is most likely a GameStop store for people to drive to. Fruhlinger
also stated that maybe one-day gamers would readopt old purchasing habits and buy their video games and consoles that Sony and Microsoft released. “There’s nothing natural about closing 200 stores,” said Fruhlinger. While I do agree that customers having been leaning towards online shopping because it is more convenient, and allows you to buy what you want right away. At the same time, I do find this kind of flawed as a reason to why a business would be going down. GameStop is supposed to satisfy its customers with the games it sells and the deals given to us, it has a good record of doing so. However, it does feel like it’s becoming more of a standard business corporate rather then an entertainment one. Its business practices has
been questionable leaving customers dissatisfied. From what I noticed, games that are pre-owned have been more expensive then games that are new. Sometimes after a game has been on sale for at least a year, the prices will go down. There has been times I find a new game that is 20 dollars, but the price of the same game that is used might be higher then that. Another thing that gets people upset is that when they want to sell their games to GameStop. Often time you get offered less money than what they would sell the game for at their store. To read the full story about GameStop vist thechaparral.net
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thechaparral.net
Sports
October 7, 2019
Women’s soccer dominates in first home match
BY JULIO CAMACHO STAFF REPORTER
The first home game for the COD’s women’s soccer team was a triumphant one; the lady Roadrunners ended up shutting out the Oxnard Condors 4-0. Bringing the momentum from the previous game against Cuyamaca, which also ended up with a victory for the COD team, the Roadrunners became aggressive on their play with 33 shots taken. The team worked hard to win their home game, and with the two goals made by freshman midfielder Isabel Alvarez and two more by freshman forward Ashley Murguia, they accomplished their team victory. In the first half of the game, Freshman defender Anaya Guerrero and Murguia made the assist to midfielder Alvarez for the first goal. Then in the second half, Murguia took the ball and scored in the 58th
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL COD women’s soccer forward Ashley Murguia defending the ball from Condor midfielder Sara Prieto. freshman midfielder Alejandra minute, giving the women the Condors. Fernandez and freshman 2-0 lead. Starting goalkeeper, forward Jasmine Castillo. As the game continued sophomore Marqisha Making it a team effort, sophomore forward Jaidah Zamudio-Ontiveros, the Roadrunners’ aggressive Martin made an assist to completed the shutout by playstyle let them have teammate Alvarez for the blocking the three on goal control of the ball for most third goal of the night. To shots from Oxnard. Even of the game, which allowed finish the shutout, Murguia though the Roadrunners them to have the ability to would get her second and dominated, it was still a nervescore efficiently against the final goal with assists from racking game.
AHL: Pro Hockey Comes to Valley
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
...and concerts and all the other amenities that are going to be offered at this beautiful arena,” said in Palm Springs Mayor Robert Moon. In his comment about basketball, the mayor was alluding to the Agua Caliente Clippers, the Los Angeles Clippers’ G-League franchise who currently play at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif. Although no concrete proposals have been announced, it is not difficult to fathom the basketball team calling the new arena home. The community was a prominent theme throughout the press conference. When The Chaparral asked how the group would get areas outside of Palm Springs such as Indio, Coachella and Desert Hot Springs involved, Tod said, “To make this work we’re going to need the support of the entire valley.” Tod added, “We want this to actually be a home for the valley where people can come and celebrate great moments, music, great hockey, and I think that’s what its first PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CHAPARRAL and foremost purpose is. To Oak View Partners, Mayor Robert Moon and kids pose at the introduction of the new Palm Springs AHL franchise.
Ontiveros said, “The first home game everyone was anxious. However, excited to defend our home turf. To come out with a win with such a great, hard-working group of girls only shows how far we can go.” Playing home is a different situation for the lady Roadrunners, the crowd supports them, but that puts pressure on them to take the win no matter what. “A lot of people were relying on us to win. I think regardless if it’s home or away, the main focus is to always win but I would always say there’s more pressure playing home,” said Murguia now, with only two wins so far on the season. The team hopes for more victories and to finish with a strong season. The team will have their next home game on Oct. 8 against the Cerro Coso Coyotes, make sure to come out and support them.
become a home for all the citizens of the valley to come and celebrate that that we have in common.” The arena is projected to be roughly two stories high at ground level and about two and a half floors underground. This will keep from obstructing the mountain views residents have fought tooth and nail to preserve. The entrance will face the southwest corner of Amado Road and North Called Encilia. Live Nation, one of the country’s premier events promoters and venue operators, is set to come bring top tier musical acts. As well as hockey, basketball and concerts, the Oak View Group plans to bring boxing and mixed martial arts to the arena. As a note, the group is invested in the UFC, so that Coachella Valley residents may be treated to big-name fighters in the world of MMA. When asked about indoor soccer, Tim swiftly answered, “no.” The AHL franchise will serve as the NHL Seattle franchise’s affiliate. There is no definite date for a mascot reveal.
COD welcomes new baseball head coach BY NANCY MAZMANIAN STAFF REPORTER
College of the Desert’s baseball team has welcomed Sam DiMatteo as the new head coach for their upcoming season. Ending last season’s games with a 6-34 record, previous assistant coach, now head coach Sam DiMatteo plans on taking a different style of leading the team that differs from the previous head coach Chris Walters. DiMatteo began by talking about his approach to coaching and his expectations from his players saying, “I want them to play without fear, be aggressive and have fun. I don’t want anybody to be nervous, go 100%. I want their brains to be free, that’s when the game goes the best.” “He [Coach DiMatteo] brings more energy to the team. He prepares us better mentally, getting us ready for the field and really instills a winning mindset. Last year a lot of the guys were scared to mess up or make a mistake. They were playing without confidence. That affected us, and it reflected through our season. We have the talent, and Coach Sam
is good at letting that talent show itself on the field,” said returning shortstop, Ryan Rodriguez. The COD baseball team has wrapped up its first few weeks of practice and are heading into their preseason scrimmages. Coach DiMatteo commented on his tactics for coaching in these first few weeks, “At the beginning, I like to see what I have and how each kid likes to play and then I can see...what everyone can do and then we go from there.” “I’m excited to just let them play their game, play to their strengths, and let them play comfortable, rather than asking them to do things that they’re not good at or they’re uncomfortable with.” said DiMatteo. Along with coaching the COD Baseball team, Dematteo, is a founder of an award-winning nonprofit organization entitled the SD Project. The basis of the organization revolves around helping low income, mentally or physically disabled children who love to play sports but don’t have the necessary tools to do the thing that they love. The SD Project provides the tools and services to those
New COD baseball head coach, Sam DiMatteo, speaks to his players. the nation and to six different kids in order for them to keep countries all over the world, playing. the SD Project has been able to The organization was able help countless kids. to grow through the help For more information on of social media, friends and the Sam Dimatteo Project previous teammates of Coach you can visit their website DiMatteo who not only give theSDProject.com, on donations but also seek out Instagram @the_sdproject or the connections of the SD Twitter @theSDProject1. Project when they hear about “I want them to play an athlete who is in need without fear, be aggressive of help. It is then that the and have fun. I don’t want organization is able to provide anybody to be nervous, go their resources and funds to 100%, I want their brains to that child. Reaching all over
PHOTO COURTESY OF COD ATHLETICS be free, that’s when the game goes the best. At the end of the day, I want them to enjoy this, and I want to learn all my guys beyond the baseball field. Sports ends for everybody, but I want all these people to talk to me for the rest of their lives... I want them all to remember me and keep in contact with them. With sports, every team becomes its own little family.” finished up Coach Sam as a final message to all his players.