MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014 ◆ VOLUME 61, ISSUE 2
College of the Desert's Indio campus now in service
LENIN SILVA/THE CHAPARRAL The College of the Desert Indio campus, located at 45524 Oasis Street in Indio, CA 92201, welcomed it’s first students ever on February 24, 2014
LUIS MEDINA
CAMPUS LIFE EDITOR
The new College of the Desert (COD) Indio campus opened for the first time on February 24. The ribbon cutting for the East Valley College was on Friday February 28, at 1 p.m. College courses that COD has been offering at the old campus in Indio, will now be taught in the college’s new building, with classrooms designed specifically for educational purposes. The architectural design
of the building consist of three-stories. The new campus is located at 45524 Oasis Street in Indio, Ca. Over 3,000 students are expected to enroll annually, each pursuing careers in academic programs. COD is offering over 60 course sections in 24 different subjects at the Indio facility. English as a Second Language (ESL) will also be offered at the Indio Campus. COD is offering courses in Adult Basic Education there as well. The new structure has 14 class-
rooms each with a 44 student capacity. Most of the basic services that are offered at the Palm Desert campus will be available at the Indio facility. Services including counseling, assessment testing, math and english tutoring, and an academic skill center. Beginning this semester, all vehicles parked on the new Indio campus are required to display a COD parking permit. Permits are $20 for each semester. To better serve students in the eastern valley, COD is now offering
major topics, Leadership, Community Service, and Physician Shadowing. The Leadership lecture focuses on leadership skills, educating students about professionalism, community health asperity, and empowerment. The Community Service lecture encourages students to interact and form a team discussing a topics such as childhood obesity, and develop a campaign. The Physician Shadowing lecture is limited and will be competitive. It will be held at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage at the Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, and other local clinic sites. Alejandro Espinoza, coordinator of the Coachella Valley FPL, said
“Students will have the opportunity to experience and learn more about the medical field.” In the program, students are required to spend 20 hours or more a week. To apply students must be in high school, or enrolled in a college or a medical school. There is no requirement fee to apply. The deadline is April 13. Students will be notified if accepted on April 28. Once students are accepted orientation will be held on June 18 and 19. The program officially starts June 23, and ends August 8, 2014. The application is online at: http://fpl.ucr.edu For more information call: (760)-347-1111
Future Physician Leaders offers opportunities for COD students BY CZARINA GREANEY
FEATURES EDITOR
Summer 2014 brings many opportunities for students involved in the medical field. The Future Physician Leaders (FPL) program has scheduled a seven-week course in Palm Desert for College of the Desert (COD) students who are interested in learning more about their future careers in the medical field. The FPL program will be held at the University of California Riverside Extension in Palm Desert, located on 75080 Frank Sinatra Drive and Cook Street. The program consists of three
Opinion Features Campus Life Local
2 Current Affairs 3 4 Culture
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5 Sports
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an associate degree program at the Indio Campus. Students who are prepared to take college-level english and math courses will be offered a two-year package going towards an AA in liberal arts, that will also satisfy the California State University (CSU) transfer requirements. All classes are Monday through Thursday lasting 12 weeks and began on February 24. The construction money for the new campus, comes from the measure B bond. In 2004, voters overwhelmingly approved the bond measure
that authorized COD to use $346.5 million tax dollars towards the construction on the Indio campus. Voters also agreed to fund a renovation of COD’s buildings and infrastructure. This has resulted in new facilities, and established permanent campuses throughout the Coachella Valley. By law, the bond capital may only be used for acquisitions of land, construction, new equipment, and furnishing. No bond money may be used towards COD employees’ salaries.
BY PAOLA FERNANDEZ
ister when making a purchase. This code can be used with every transaction, including books, and the BN cafe and music. "We are raising funds in order to organize events such as museum visits, San Pascual Battlefield, and The Desert Adventure Tour," said club president, Rebecca Grantham, who is also a Barnes and Noble employee. "I know how beneficial these fundraisers can be, so I thought this would be a good idea," added Grantham. Don't forget to visit Barnes and Noble this upcoming Saturday March 15, at the Westfield Mall in Palm Desert, and help The History Association raise funds!
History Association to host book fair at Barnes and Noble COPY EDITOR
COD's History Association is kicking off the semester by hosting a book fair at Barnes and Noble (BN) on March 15 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The History Association made their debut as a club on campus last Fall and participated in this semester's Club Rush. Members of the club will be situated at the entrance of Barnes and Noble on March 15, where they will be promoting their fund raiser by handing shoppers a code as they enter the store. The code will have to then be presented at the cash reg-
FEATURED STORIES
Affordable Health Care
College of the Desert students share their thoughts and insight on the new healthcare laws OPINION, PG. 2
One on one with Gloria Rodriguez Chaparral reporter sits down with local news anchor for a one on one CULTURE, PG. 7
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2 Opinion
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
Student’s insights and opinions on the Affordable Care Act BY SARAH WATERS
STAFF CONTRIBUTOR
How do you take care of your health? Surprisingly, many Americans don't have an answer to that question and many more don't even know what questions they should be asking to get informed. In this day and age, it isn't difficult to get health insurance; under the Affordable Care Act, even low-income families can get the coverage they need. Whether you're under the age of 26 and still covered
by your parents' medical insurance, or you think you're not in need of coverage because you're invincible and never going to land yourself in the hospital; it is still in your benefit to see what the Affordable Care Act could mean to you. So what exactly is the Affordable Care Act? "I dont know much about it other than that it was just passed, and everyone has to have insurance now." said Claudia Duda. "I think it's a good thing?" On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed the Affordable Care
SARAH WATERS/THE CHAPARRAL Nick James, 26, "Personally I’d say to just deal with the fines. On my income I really can't afford health insurance"
Act, a law which puts in place comprehensive health insurance reforms meant to roll out over the next four years and beyond. The goal behind the reforms is that every American can now get the proper medical insurance they need for a reasonable price they can afford. Although technically, everyone does have to have insurance now or be penalized with a fine that can be calculated one of two ways. You'll pay whichever of these amounts is higher; either 1% of your yearly household income, with the maximum penalty for this
being the national average yearly premium for a bronze plan; or $95 per person ($47.50 per child under 18), with the maximum penalty per family using this method at $285 for the year, and you're still not covered. Individuals choosing to opt out of coverage and just pay the fines will still be held responsible for any medical expenses they encounter. Worth the risk? Some say so. "Personally, I'd say just deal with the fines." said 26 year-old Nick James. "On my income, I really cant afford health
SARAH WATERS/THE CHAPARRAL Claudia Duda, 19. "I don't know much about it other than it was just passed, and everyone has to have insurance now. it seems like a good thing? My mom has never had insurance and she really needs to start seeing a doctor. It would be great if she could get insurance at a low rate"
insurance." Though not everyone agrees, "Its Obamacare. Everybody is able to have insurance, no matter their income." said COD student, Jacquelyn Kay Hermosilla. "I think its a good thing. I know a lot of people think it's a bad thing but now I have insurance and everyone in my house does." When asked her opinion on the fines that will be applied to individuals who do not seek some form of medical coverage; "Personally, " Jacquelyn responded. "I would say just get the insurance."
SARAH WATERS/THE CHAPARRAL Houston Sherrod, 19. "I heard that they’re lowering the age on Medical, and the whole transition has been sloppy.. A lot of people have been left without insurance recently. Republican or Democrat, it's all going downhill. Thankfully, I'm on my dad's plan until I'm 25"
The Zimmerman Telegram
The trials of minimum wage BY ANDREA ZIMMERMAN STAFF CONTRIBUTOR
According to a report by The United States Department of Labor (DOL) published on March 14, 2013, there are several myths about raising minimum wage. For example, they speculate that about 20 percent of those who would benefit from a federal minimum wage increase are teenagers, and 60 percent of them are women. The cost of living has drastically increased since 2007, yet the minimum wage has remained stagnant. As President Obama makes his move to raise the minimum wage for federal contract workers, this change could impact the lives of as many as 10 million U.S. workers. As a single mom, a full time employee, and a college student, I know far too well how hard and almost impossible it is to live off of a
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lenin Silva Ivan Valenzuela
PRODUCTION MANAGER Jonathan Moreno COPY EDITORS Paola Fernandez Jasmine Hernandez Avery Wood
SECTION EDITORS Opinion - Tina Munoz Features - Czarina Greaney Current Affairs - Avery Wood Campus Life - Luis Medina Local - Jasmine Hernandez Culture - Tiffany Contreras Sports - Trevor Millman ADVERTISING MANAGER Andrea Zimmerman PHOTOGRAPHY Sarah Waters
FACULTY ADVISOR Ted Grofer
thousand dollars a month. If I were not receiving financial aid I would have to work an additional two or three jobs just to meet my living expenses. In 2007, I started working for a popular hotel chain, earning nine dollars an hour with the promise of a raise the following year contingent on my performance. I helped bring this hotel from number 10 in customer service up to number 1. I received a 25 cent raise and worked for that same company for another four years without ever receiving another raise. Additionally, I only missed three sick days. I couldn't afford to be sick, and I couldn't afford health insurance. Our employer did not allow sick days with pay. I believed if I worked hard enough for this company in time I would receive a livable wage, it never happened. As I watched the increase in their profits rise and still no mention of a raise, I knew something had to
give. I am lucky enough to be able to return to college, yet I know there are many minimum wage workers who don't have this opportunity available to them. Corporations such as Walmart and McDonalds and many other huge companies should be ashamed of themselves, as they squeeze huge profits out of their employees. Moms, dads, senior citizens, college students, and, yes, teenagers are living in poverty. Many of their CEO's are driving luxury cars, and buying several luxurious homes while they continue to argue against raising minimum wage. When over 10 million people are living in poverty in the United States, and with gas prices fluctuating between $3.30 and $4.50 a gallon, and with the average worker making anywhere from $7.75- $10.10 an hour, it is time to raise the minimum wage to a wage that people can live on!
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WEBSITE: www.thechaparral.net EMAIL: chaparral@collegeofthedesert.edu The Chaparral will be published six times this semester. All editorials are strictly the opinions of the editorial board, and do not necessarily reflect any opinions held by The Chaparral staff or College of Desert. Editorials are subject to review by the editorial board.
Letters to the editor are printed in the order they are received with space and deadline considerations, and may be assigned to future publications.
Students are invited to submit any original and appropriate creative materials to the editorial board of The Chaparral. Materials may be sent to the following address: Editor, The Chaparral, College of the Desert, 43-500 Monterey Ave, Palm Desert, Ca, 92260.
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What are Americans really eating? BY ANDREA ZIMMERMAN STAFF CONTRIBUTOR
Could banned ingredients be contributing to the higher mortality rate and disease rates here in the U.S.? According to nutritionist and author Mira Calton, "For numerous, suspicious and disturbing reasons the U.S. has allowed foods that are banned in many other developed countries into our food supply." According to a report released by the Institute of Medicine and the National research council "Americans are sicker and die younger than other people in wealthy nations." As stated in this report, more than two-thirds of the United State's citizens are overweight, thirty-three percent being obese. Thirty-two percent of children are either obese or overweight. America's biggest cause of premature death is linked to seventy-percent of heart disease and eight percent diabetes. Forty-one percent of Americans are projected to get cancer in their lifetime. As Calton did a six-year expedition that took her to 100 countries on seven continents she came across 13 ingredients that are forbidden by governments outside the U.S. according to an article written in Healthy Living-Yahooshine. The article is "Banned Ingredients that are still legal in the U.S.," Calton strongly suggest in this article that if you see any of the following ingredients listed on the nutrient label don't buy the product. The list includes ingredients blue1, blue 2, yellow 5, and yellow 6. They are found in cake, candy, macaroni and cheese, medicines, sport drinks and soda. These same ingredients are used to seal and coat industrial floors and are also used in head lice shampoos to kill lice. Sounds yummy. Then there is Olestra (Olean).
This ingredient is found in fat-free potato chips and was banned in The United Kingdom and Canada. This product is known to rob us of micronutrients as stated by Calton. Next ingredient to stay away from, Calton suggests, is brominated vegetable oil (BVO). This ingredient is found in sports drinks and citrusflavored sodas. According to Calton this ingredient competes with iodine or receptor sites in the body and the elevated level may lead to thyroid issues, such as hypothyroidism, auto immune disease and cancer. BVO main ingredients is bromine which is considered a poisonous chemical. This ingredient has been linked to major organ system damage, birth defects, growth problems, schizophrenia, and hearing loss. So who will finally tell the truth about what Americans are really eating? We as a society must challenge the U.S. food industry to not use banned ingredients that other countries have acknowledged are harmful and cause health issues and premature death. As college students, we are constantly educating our minds to earn our degrees, isn't it time we educate ourselves in what we are really eating? What is the use of having a degree, if we become too sick or die prematurely because of health issues caused by what we are eating? Maybe it is time to inform ourselves about what we are eating and start using our voices to demand that food companies be honest about what ingredients they are using and how harmful many of them are. The FDA should take a look at those ingredients that have been banned in other countries. For more information about these dangerous ingredients check out the website: http://100daysofrealfood.com
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Features 3
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
Salvation Mountain creator passes away Palm Springs Air
Museum ranks among the best
DENNIS EBACHER/CONJURE-PHOTOGRAPHY Leonard Knight, at Salvation Mountain. He worked on his creation since the early 80’s
BY JONATHAN MORENO
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Folk-artist Leonard Knight passed away on Monday, February 10 at the age of 82. Knight is known for his colorful creation named Salvation Mountain. The work of art is located in Niland, California about 74 miles east of COD. The mountain represents Knight's dedication and devotion to promote his love for Christ. He lived on the site in his truck and worked on the mountain from the early 80’s until he was no longer able to, due to diabetes and old age. His declining health had forced him to become a resident at a convalescent home. The mountain was maintained by volunteers in order to preserve his life's work. The volunteers mix hay and clay, re-paint the mountain
and keep the installation clean. Knight was born on November 1, 1931 in Shelburne Falls, Vermont, where he lived on a family farm. At the age of 20, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Upon his discharge from the Army, he returned to Vermont and started to work in a series of different jobs that included painting cars and teaching guitar. In 1967, while visiting his sister in San Diego, Knight’s life was changed when he found himself repeating the Sinner Prayer, a prayer used by individuals seeking a relationship with God through Jesus Christ. He accepted Jesus Christ into his life and would ultimately live his life serving Jesus. From that day on, he has exhibited his love for Christ. Knight began to spread the "message of God" through his use of a hot air balloon. He made his
own hot air balloon with the message “God is Love.” Eventually the balloon became too much for him to manage. The base of the 50 ft mountain is painted with a depiction of the Sea of Galilee and the mountain is full of vibrant colors with the message “God is love” and the Sinner Prayer is at the center. Knight created adobe filled structures without having any prior knowledge or formal training in painting. It is estimated that over 100,000 gallons of paint have been used on the mountain. Knight passed away at Eldorado Care Center in El Cajon, California. His life and his art work has been a fixture in the folk-art community. Tourists from around the world have visited Niland to view his work. Salvation Mountain will continue to spread Knight’s love for God.
TINA MUNOZ/THE CHAPARRAL DC-3 aircraft was the first commercial airliner to make air travel affordable for average Americans
BY TINA MUNOZ
OPINION EDITOR
The Palm Springs Air Museum has been named one of the world’s 14 Best Aviation Museums by CNN Travel. The Museum is a non-profit educational institution, home to one of the largest collections of flyable World War II aircrafts. A museum with “no ropes” as CNN Travel puts it. The Museum opened on Veteran’s Day, November 11, 1996 with approximately 5,000 visitors filling the 50,000 sq. ft. facility. It all began with the collective imaginations of Charlie Mayer, Bill Byrne, Pete Madison, and Dr. Mort Gubin. As the story goes, Mayer and Byrne were outside talking in late 1993, when a P-51 flew above them. They instinctively asked the question “Why not have an air museum featuring World War II warbirds, right here in Palm Springs?” Madison, a former P-38 pilot who was later pulled in on the project contacted his friend Robert Pond, who was known as an active collector and rebuilder of warbirds along with classic cars. The idea was brought to the Palm Springs City Council, who fully backed it, and the organizational certificate was dated January 5, 1994. Ten acres of land were acquired and construction began on February 15, 1996, and as they say, ‘the rest is history.’ The museum consists of 27 flyable warbirds, a classic car collection, a B-17 bomber, the Buddy Rogers Theater, flight simulators, a “Kool Kids” Activity Center, a WWII Educational Resource Library, pilot shop, a Java Joe’s coffee shop and the Our Freedom Fighter Cafe. “Out of 300 museums in the United States, we were chosen. Being the smallest on the list and the only non-government owned as well, it’s pretty exciting,” said Fred Bell, Managing Director. Above the door of the entrance sits a half scale model of the Wright Brothers' very first plane. Directly across is a mural of the Battle of Midway, hand painted by Stan Stokes, the in-house artist. According to Dell Morgan, a volunteer, Stokes worked on the piece in midsummer 1996, before the doors of the museum were even put in. In the Phillips Hangar sits a B17 (B- Bomber, 17--17th new bomber designed and manufactured specifically for the U.S. Army Air Force) high altitude long range bomber, from the collection of Robert Pond. The bomber itself is open to tours which are given by veterans. The
bomber was used by the Air Corps and Navy as well as the British Royal Air Force, but notably in the Pacific, helping to secure New Guinea. Its greatest victory was when it was flown over Europe with Nazi Germany as its target, bombing anything and everything connected with the Germans. "We are a living history museum, and it's not uncommon for visitors to speak to someone who flew one of our aircraft in either Korea or Vietnam," Bell continued. "We love to bring in temporary exhibits...our fleet of aircraft is not static, and there are no ropes to prevent visitors from getting up close," says managing director Fred Bell. The Cravens Hangar holds everything from the war in the pacific, warship row, including the USS The Sullivans to the USS Rasher, Bob Hope memorabilia, surrender documents, and a breakdown of Pearl Harbor events. The European Hangar also features equipment used in the war in Europe, Women at War, Flying Tigers, combat cameramen, WWII medals, and the limousine that was built for the Japanese Consulate in San Francisco. The Fairchild Aircraft, a United States Air Force combat cargo unit also known as The Flying Boxcar sits in between the European and Pacific hangars. It saw extensive action in the Korean war, as a troop and equipment transport. Needing a crew of 5, but with a holding capacity of 62 troops or 35 stretchers, the Fairchild was a force to be reckoned with, having a maximum speed of 296 mph. The museum is also linked to the Library of Congress with interviews with veterans of war. An 8,700 volume library, consisting of movies, journals, books, magazines, maps, and every Life magazine ever printed, including an 800-volume collection of books devoted to the China-BurmaIndia Theater of Operations during World War II. Flight simulators are also in the library, where Bob Andrade, a flying tigers historian, will coach visitors on how to work the simulators. The Museum in general is open to cameras and even pets are welcome as long as they are on a leash. A storage room holds several wheelchairs as well as walkers. “We know the museum is quite a walk, so we provide anything you might need to help you get around easier” said Morgan. The gift shop is full of merchandise, from pilot wear to a bullet key chain. The Museum is open 7 days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
4 Campus Life
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
Study abroad in London this Fall 2014 Construction on campus
IMAGE COURTESY OF COLLEGE OF THE DESERT Students have opportunity to study and travel major in cities in the study abroad program that studying abroad is “an invaluable There are six winners that will be experience for anyone.” Julian adds selected for the AIFS scholarship. BY JONATHAN MORENO that it is “good to see other cultures... Those who have over 72 units will there is more to the world than Amer- not be able to receive financial aid PRODUCTION MANAGER ica.” The program fee is $6,745 for from Citrus College. College of the Desert (COD) Classes are held at the University students will have the opportunity a shared homestay which includes to study in London in Fall 2014. In breakfast Monday-Friday with kitchen of London Union Building. Students a meeting on Tuesday, February 18, privileges. To stay in a shared apart- enroll in 12 units and must take the those interested in studying abroad ment, the fee is $7,695. In the shared British Life and Culture course. Most were provided with information apartment option, AIFS does it's best of the classes are CSU/UC transferto partner students with the right able and the credit comes through about the program. Lynn Jamison, the study abroad roommate. A tube and bus pass, Citrus College. Those enrolled will specialist at Citrus College conducted medical insurance, social and cultural not be in classes with British students the meeting and answered questions. activities are included in the fees. but instead with students in the A PowerPoint presentation was dis- There are also optional tours to Scot- study abroad program. Students inplayed pointing out key facts about land, Paris, Burges and Brussels, terested in participating in the program have to submit a London Belgium. the semester in London. Students are welcomed to apply Program Application with an initial The study abroad program partners with different colleges which for financial aid and scholarships. payment of $450 no later than June make up the Southern California Financial aid would be received 13. The deadline to withdraw from Foothills Consortium with the Amer- through Citrus College and the the program will be June 11. Classes begin on September 8 ican Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) school's code is 001166 when applying packaging the program. In order for on www.fafsa.ed.gov. There are two and the program ends on November a student to enroll into the program, scholarships students can apply for: 14. There is the option of staying they will need to have a minimum the Benjamin A. Gilman International two more weeks after the program.For 2.5 GPA in at least 12 units of previous Scholarship and the AIFS Ambassador more information contact Jennifer Scholarship. Many students are se- Julian at (760) 776-7270 or jjulian@colcollege level course work. Jennifer Julian, the International lected for the Gilman scholarship legeofthedesert.edu Education Program Assistant says and the award is about $4000-5000.
TINA MUNOZ/THE CHAPARRAL The Visual Arts building will be open in Fall 2014
BY TINA MUNOZ
OPINION EDITOR
Thanks to a $346.5 million bond measure, College of the Desert is currently implementing a $372 million "Facilities Master Plan," which encompasses the essential infrastructure for a campus wide renovation. A new 22,700-square- foot Applied Sciences building will include four classrooms, Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CAD) lab, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) lab, outdoor HVAC and Construction Technology labs, faculty offices, and an outdoor courtyard. John Jaramillo, Dean of the School of Applied Sciences and Business, noted that, “the labs will be state-of-the-art, and will provide our students the best possible learning environment.” This project brings together the Agriculture, Construction Science, Natural Resources, and Horticulture departments that are currently scattered throughout the campus. James Matson, principal of HGA, an integrated architecture, engineering and planning firm, said that “The Applied Sciences Complex promotes hands-on learning and career training through a series of indoor and outdoor learning environments. The outdoor horticulture area, for instance, is an active learning lab where horticulture students grow, maintain, and study different varieties of agricultural plants. Likewise, the HVAC labs offer students real-world training and technical skills devel-
opment in mechanical-systems repair and maintenance, preparing them to go directly from the classroom to jobs in the community.” Athletic Facilities scheduled for completion in the Summer of 2015, are to include a new gymnasium, team ro o m s , re s t ro o m s , shower/locker rooms, and maintenance rooms for the Physical Education and Athletic Programs, along with minor renovation to the initial structure of the athletic facilities to accommodate a weight training area, multipurpose rooms, and faculty offices, and new tennis courts. Juan Fulgham, is excited about the new Athletic Facilities. “It's supposed to be made of glass,” commented Fulgham. Harvest Smith also commented on the new athletic facilities, saying, “I think it's going to be nice; I just wish I could have played there. Too bad I’m transferring at the end of the semester.” The Visual Arts Building, an $8,475,000 project which began Spring 2013, is now complete and will be opening Fall 2014. The new space is set to include modern lab and classroom spaces, with room for 2D drawing and painting, 3D sculpture, printmaking, photography (digital and print), and ceramics classes. Maribel Ramirez, a Liberal Arts major, has great expectations when it comes to the new Visual Arts building. She is “hoping for a clean facility with a lot of space,” and goes on to say that, “the new buildings gives me a sense that they finally care about the arts.”
Missionaries come to COD
SARAH WATERS/THE CHAPARRAL LIFE on Campus group meeting at Alumni Park
BY ASHLEIGH FRIENDS
STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR
A young group of non-denominational Christian missionaries moved to Palm Desert at the beginning of this year with their primary goal to bring the international campus ministry LIFE on Campus to College of the Desert. The group moved from Riverside in January. “I was raised believing that the Bible and organized religion were a complete waste of time”, says 20 year-old Monique Villa. “But if it wasn’t for the group of eight people that gave up everything to start this ministry in Riverside, I would have never known the truth about these
things. In my closed-mindedness I was miserable, but after the Bible and God were explained to me in a way that made sense I felt like my life was given meaning. I want to bring that same clarification to the young people here in the Valley.” The mission statement of LIFE on Campus is Matthew 28:18-20, in which Jesus commands his disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. The group meets for open Bible discussions at the Alumni Park on Campus on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursday at 11 a.m. and Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. The discussions are not limited to Christians, but are for anyone who is interested.
Local 5
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
Indio ranked in the top 20 COD Marks Art Center presents best communities for young "Desertscapes: Outliers" families
KRYSTAL GLASMAN/ MARKS ART CENTER Photo titled “Headless Palms” soon to be displayed at the Marks Center
IMAGE COURTESY OF PALM SPRINGS LIFE Downtown Indio at dusk on Miles Avenue and Towne Street
BY JASMINE HERNANDEZ
LOCAL EDITOR
Indio may now officially be called one of the best communities for young families to live. An annual survey conducted by the financial services website http://Nerdwallet.com (Nerdwallet) highlighted the city of Indio among its list of family friendly communities. In the top 20 “Best Cities for young families in California,” Nerdwallet used data from surveys pertinent to the U.S. Census Bureau and http://Greatschools.org in order to rank cities state wide in descending order based on average academic weight of each school in the cities, monthly homeowner costs, home value, and household income. With a score of 52.45, the highest being 66.76, the City of Indio was ranked number 17. Not only were questions on the city's public schooling and affordability taken into consideration, but also the recent and projected growth of the city overall. Nerdwallet, in regards to it's selection process, relates that the growth of income is a valuable aspect in the listing of top cities, and Indio
has shown itself to have the second highest change in income in that statistical division. The raise in income was estimated to be about a 50% increase between the years 1999-2011. Higher income and overall growth, along with cultural and recreational activities, was a leading factor as to why the city was placed on the top 20 list for young families in California. Events and community activities such as the annual Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, The National Date Festival, and The International Tamale Festival, provide special experiences for families and young adults that other cities throughout California and the nation might not have the capacity to offer. The recent “Art in the Square” festival is a perfect example of how the city of Indio encourages it's citizens, surrounding communities, and people across the nation, to get involved and participate in creative endeavors that make a difference in other peoples lives, especially the younger generations. Congratulations to the city of Indio for its recognition and for representing the Coachella Valley in such a positive way.
BY MICHAELA ZIEGLER-GREER STUDENT CONTRIBUTOR
A month-long art exhibition at College of the Desert will focus on local landscapes captured by three Southern California photographers. “Desertscapes: Outliers” will showcase photographs of the Coachella Valley landscape by Bill Brewer, Victory-Tischler Blue, and Jeff Alu. The exhibit will be open for viewing in the Marks Art Center on
the College of the Desert campus from March 10 through April 10, Monday through Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be no charge for admission to the exhibit. According to Krystal Glasman, gallery assistant at the Marks Art Center, the exhibition is open to the public and free to attend. “We try to make our exhibitions interesting to all different kinds of people.” Glasman said. This event is part of a yearly collaboration in the Coachella Valley
called Desertscapes, which celebrates local art with many events and exhibitions, all of which highlight art inspired by the local landscapes. The Desertscapes group, according to their website, desertscapes.net, includes local organizations. They are the city of Palm Desert, the city of Palm Springs, the Walter N. Marks Center for the Arts, the Coachella Valley Art Center, the Palm Springs Art Museum, the Historical Society of Palm Desert, and many others.
tennis facility. Free public wifi and a newly launched mobile app are now available to enhance guests experience for the BNP Paribas Open 2014 activities. Tournament goers can easily find their way around the facility, keep an eye on match information on schedules and scores. Another feature, the app allows guests to do which they wouldn't have been able to do in previous years is live streaming of up to four broadcast courts. Up to the second news, blogs and social media content can also found within the BNP Paribas Open app. "The BNP Paribas Open app is
going to enhance the fan experience on-site and beyond,” said Steve Simon, Tournament Director. “We recognize that by providing sitewide, reliable and free Wi-Fi we can deliver a way for people to consume the event through their mobile devices, and also share that experience through social media channels to friends, family and more.” In addition to having the ability to live stream through the mobile app, one other way to live stream the tournaments at the IWTG is TennisTV.com, the official live streaming website.
Indian Wells Tennis Garden receives an upgrade BY JASMINE HERNANDEZ LOCAL EDITOR
The Indian Wells Tennis Garden (IWTG) opens its gates to welcome the public to this years BNP Paribas Open showing off numerous new amenities. The BNP Paribas Open begins March 3-16, but on Feb. 24 the IWTG held a premiere tour to show off the newly added features and expansions. Guests should also be pleased to find newly finished stadiums, restaurants, and shopping areas now added to layout of the world renowned
6 Current Affairs
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
Syria vulnerable to infultration by Al Qaeda Ukraine’s president Revolts in Syria are likely to continue
ousted and on the run
A woman wrapped in the Ukrainian flag
AVERY WOOD
CURRENT AFFAIRS EDITOR
A Syrian soldier investigates the scene of an explosion in Damascus, Syria
AVERY WOOD
CURRENT AFFAIRS EDITOR
There are suspicions that the revolts in Syria are leaving the government vulnerable to Al Qaeda infiltration. The violence in Syria continues with no end in sight, and Al Qaeda groups are likely organizing among the rebel forces. Though most sources maintain that there is no proof that Al Qaeda is involved in the fighting, Syrian media has been reporting that each bomb attack was by a suicide bomber. According to the New York Times, there was a video on YouTube of a group of rebels calling themselves The Free Syrian Army and making statements while brandishing weapons. The group says, “We are now forming suicide cells to make jihad in the name of god,” with the flags of the Al Qaeda organization in the background. Furthermore, the United States has accused Iran of assisting the members of Al Qaeda move into Syria. The United States Treasury says that the Al Qaeda members have been using Iran as a transit point to move their Sunni extremist forces into Syria. They also mention that this tactic has been used to move Al Qaeda forces into Pakistan and Afghanistan as well. The head Al Qaeda facilitator there is Yasin al
Suri and the United States Treasury has found that he has been operating from Iran with the government’s knowledge and permission since 2005. The uprisings in Syria are what caused President Obama to meet with King Abdullah of Jordan in Rancho Mirage. The king of Jordan wanted Obama to assist Syrian rebels with weapons in order to ease the strain on his country caused by the 600,000 Syrian refugees that had fled to Jordan. Obama declined to send weapons, as it would be impossible to ensure that no members of terrorist organizations were supplied with the weapons. According to the New York Times, Al Qaeda is likely taking this opportunity to dismantle the secular government in Syria. A low level Al Qaeda operative, Abu Thuha, gave a statement saying, “Our big hope is to form a Syrian-Iraqi Islamic state for all Muslims, and then announce our war against Iran and Israel, and free Palestine.” The conflict in Syria began in April 2011 when 15 students put graffiti on a wall expressing antigovernment sentiments. The government responded by arresting and torturing them. There were initially peaceful protests advocating the release of the students, but the government attacked these protestors and later, the funerals of the fallen
AP PHOTO
protestors. The government continued attacking, kidnapping, raping, and murdering protestors and their family members, including children, and leaving bodies on the side of the road, according the Washington Post. There was also proof that chemical weapons were used, but the government denies responsibility, saying that it was the rebels who used them. The Obama Administration had intended to hit Syria with missiles to assert its authority and the authority of its allies and to say that chemical weapons are never to be used, but the Syrian government gave up their chemical weapons soon after the threat. Obama has encouraged a diplomatic end to the fighting, suggesting that the Syrian government negotiate with the rebels, but the government shows no interest in any negotiation and it is unclear whether there is an organized rebel force with which to negotiate. Over 100,000 people have been killed in the conflict and President Bashar al Assad refuses to resign. According to the Washington Post, Assad was likely trying to reproduce his father's success in stifling uprisings in the February 1982 Hama Massacre, in which former president Hafez al Assad killed thousands of civilians.
Ukrainian president Victor Yanukovych was ousted by parliament and a warrant for his arrest has been issued by Ukrainian authorities. Yanukovych has fled since he was impeached, but according to CNN, Yanukovych gave a speech saying, “I do not plan to leave the country. I don’t plan to resign. I am the legitimate President.” The former president was ousted after violent revolts broke out in the nation’s capital, Kiev. The protests began peacefully, when Yanukovych declined to sign a trade agreement with the EU, favoring his alliance with Russia. Many citizens wanted to open a path to joining the EU, and protested in favor of the trade agreement. Though there was initially no violence, Yanukovych passed anti-protesting laws, inciting more protests and causing police to attack civilians. The violence escalated quickly until some media outlets speculated that it might lead to a civil war. After he fled, Yanukovych’s extravagant home was opened to the public. Though he made only $25,000 a year, Yanukovych used tax-payer
AP PHOTO
money to built the $75,000,000 home that Fox has dubbed a “monument to corruption.” The home included imported pieces such as Lebanese cedar doors, priced at $64,000 each, and a statue of a wild boar priced at $115,000. Citizens are calling for his home to become a hospital or a sanitorium. A trove of documents showing his extravagant spending that Yanukovych had tried to destroy was found in a lake, as well. Divers and volunteers retrieved the documents and laid them out to dry. These documents included receipts and invoices for millions of dollars for the décor in his house and some shady transactions, including a “bribe” according to CNN. Oleksandr Turchynov, a Baptist minister, filmmaker, and metallurgist, has been named Ukraine’s temporary president until the elections in May when Yulia Tymoshenko will run. Tymoshenko was in prison for 2 years for embezzlement, but some people think the conviction was backed by Yanukovych for political gain. She has a loyal following, but not everyone wants her as a leader because of her history of corruption, and citizens have said that they want someone new.
Mexican drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman captured
AP PHOTO Joaquin Guzman being arrested by Mexican authorities supplier of drugs to the United States, but Mexico has been clear that they AVERY WOOD want full access to the information that he is capable of providing and CURRENT AFFAIRS EDITOR will likely put him in a Mexican Mexican drug lord Joaquin “El prison. Despite this, it is acknowlChapo” Guzman was arrested on edged that Mexico has the right to February 21st for drug involvement require Guzman to stand trial and after being hunted for thirteen years. serve his sentence there before being Guzman was the leader of a extradited to the United States. Many people argue that Guzman major drug cartel that supplied heroin, cocaine, and methamphet- should be extradited because the amine around the world. He was United States has been more effective previously arrested on similar charges at convincing convicts to give them and was serving a twenty-year prison information, offering visas to their sentence when he escaped having family members or freezing their assets. In addition, it is feared that served only seven years. The charges against him by the he will escape again. Mexican auMexican courts are cocaine trafficking thorities insist that there is no chance and organized crime, along with of that happening. While many people hope that other charges as a result of his prison escape. The authorities consider his this will mean the end of the Sinaloa arrest a major opportunity to gain cartel, it is a possibility that the arrest information on the formidable Sinaloa will cause conflict between members of the cartel who are capable of drug cartel. There are many requests from leading its fight for power. the United States for Guzman to be extradited, as his cartel is the largest
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
Fashion Week El Paseo to dress Palm Springs
PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.FASHIONWEEKELPASEO.COM Models display designers’ neweset creations during last year’s Fashion Week
BY TIFFANY CONTRERAS
CULTURE EDITOR
JM Couture is back to present his ninth annual Fashion Week on El Paseo in Palm Springs. Designers from Project Runway and FIDM– Michael Costello, Helen Castillo, Katie Chick, Uli Herzner, and Irina Shabayeva - will showcase their newest designs, collections, and ideas between aspiring designers. The festivity will begin Sunday, March 16 with a Style and Beauty Bash, where makeup and hair artists from 30 different salons and spas will come together to help designers and models prepare for the week long event. According to the El Paseo Fashion Week website, the bash includes hair styling and cutting, makeup application, spray tanning, nail polishing, brow shaping, and massaging. Admission is free to the general public, but $30 to those who plan to partake in the beauty activities. Following the Beauty Bash, Designer Le Chien will showcase a Celebration of Dogs & Fashion show to benefit the Humane Society of the Desert organization. He will display
dogs in fashion costumes as the “famous dogs of Hollywood.” Thereafter, FIDM designers will platform a Little Black Dress Cocktail premise show with the newest creations that they have designed. Following, on March 19, Michael Costello and Project Runway designers will host a meet and greet for all aspiring designers and stylists to gather before their fashion show on March 20. The entire festivity will end with Designer of the Week, Zang Toi. Toi will host the final fashion show with a White Night theme to celebrate the culmination of all of the shows, designs, and styles that were displayed within the week. Fashion Week El Paseo will take place between El Paseo and Shadow Mountain on Larkspur Lane in Palm Desert. Ticket prices vary upon each designer’s day of showcase. For more information, visit www.fashionweekelpaseo.com or call (760) 831-0219. This gala is a celebratory occasion that recognizes the art of fashion in ways that go beyond the runway. Come out and learn while having fun!
Culture 7
COD’s Professor Gloria Rodriguez: behind the scenes
TIFFANY CONTRERAS / THE CHAPARRAL Culture Editor Tiffany Contreras with Professor Gloria Rodriguez after hearing words of educational advice stand the stories that I would cover,” when my mother passed away. I she explains as to why she chose to really wanted to come here to be BY TIFFANY CONTRERAS close to my father, and luckily I got major in Political Science. the job at KMIR.” Rodriguez graduated USC with CULTURE EDITOR In the course of two years, Rotwo Bachelors degrees in Broadcast driguez has spent her time as a Journalism and Political Science with College of the Desert’s Professor morning anchor and had the privilege Gloria Rodriguez amazes with her an internship to follow up. With help from the National of covering the Humana Challenge, culture and experience as she shares Association of Hispanic Journalists which allowed her to interview her life experiences. Raised in Cathedral City, Ro- - who specialize in recognizing and former President Bill Clinton. Moredriguez’s parents encouraged her helping Hispanics in the news in- over, she spent four years as a to continue her education after high dustry - Rodriguez received her first weekend reporter, where she had school and recognize the limitless summer internship as a sports re- the opportunity to cover former Presopportunities. “My parents grew up porter with The New York Times, ident Gerald Ford’s death and funeral, very poor in Mexico and didn’t have where she put her knowledge of as well as interview former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. an education, “ explains Rodriguez. both degrees to use. Remembering her parents’ ad- Although she stays busy with her “So they always encouraged my brother, sister, and me to go to college vice of living in a limitless country work, she still makes time to honor and to take advantage of being here and the importance of education, her mother - who passed away of a in America, where we could take she went on to earn her Masters de- sudden heart attack. Rodriguez is a part of the Go gree in Broadcast Journalism at up the opportunity of education.” Their support encouraged Ro- Columbia University, while main- Red for Women association, whose driguez to attend the University of taining her internship at The New goal is to encourage individuals to Southern California after graduating York Times. In addition to writing improve their lifestyles by being from Cathedral City High School, and reporting for the Times, she also stroke and cardiovascular disease where she challenged herself to dou- wrote for The Boston Globe, The St. free. In all of her endeavors, Roble major in Broadcast Journalism Paul Pioneer Press, and The Desert driguez continues her successful and Political Science. While at USC, Sun. Following a fatal emergency, journey and strives to influence she wrote for her school’s newspaper The Daily Trojan and took several she returned to her Coachella Valley others to pursue their educational political science courses to better hometown, but still received success. career, and she does so while teaching understand news stories. “I took a “I actually came back because my at COD. lot of classes in world politics and mother passed away very suddenly,” U.S. politics just to make sure that, she explains. “I was in Arkansas. I as a journalist, I would fully under- worked there for about a month
La Quinta Arts Festival’s phenomenal artists
PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.LQAF.COM DiosGracias VoceDans Theater is set to showcase a vocal, dance performance
BY TIFFANY CONTRERAS CULTURE EDITOR
With a number one ranking in Fine Arts and Fine Craft, the award winning La Quinta Arts Festival is hosting its 32nd annual event with a lineup that includes Steve Madaio & Friends, Milton Merlos, Oscar Reynolds/ Karumanta Music, and DiosGracias VoceDans Theater. Steve Madaio & Friends have recorded with Janis Joplin, played two world tours with the Rolling Stones, and recorded and toured with many legendary acts: Stevie Wonder, John Lennon, Bob Dylan, and Madonna, among many others. Madaio will be promoting his newly released record Slices Friday, March 7 until Sunday, March 9 as one of the first performers of the festival. In addition to Madaio & Friends, Milton Merlos Jr. will take the stage
from Thursday, March 6 until Sunday, March 9, where he will showcase his talent and love for the Spanish Flamenco guitar. Following Merlos, Bolivia born Oscar Reynolds will perform cultural songs from several of his records. Reynolds grew a passion for Bolivian music when he first began playing in Bolivia, and has since been honored with numerous awards from the Bolivian government. He has worked with many renowned Bolivian and Peruvian artists and has released eight full-length albums under his own record label – Karumanta Music, which means “We have come far away” in Quechua. He will perform his ethnic, acoustic music Thursday, March 6 until Sunday, March 9. The fiesta will also feature a performance by DiosGracias VoceDans Theater, which is an orchestra of dancers and singers who project their talents according to the music.
This entertainment will take place Friday, March 6 until Sunday, March 9. The festival is held at the La Quinta Civic Center Park from March 6 until March 9. Adult single day tickets are $12; multi day tickets are $15; and children under 12 years old are free. The basis of the affair is not only to put on a memorable show, but also to bring awareness to a festive charity. The La Quinta Arts Foundation is partnered with Premier Sponsor the City of La Quinta, which assists the non-profit charity in raising money for its Promoting & Cultivating the Arts. By attending this festival, all proceeds will benefit this charity and help those who are seeking education in art.
Sports
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2014
That thing at the gym? What it is and how to work it?
8
2014 Winter Olympics overview
AP PHOTO/IVAN SEKRETAREV Performers create the Olympic rings during the closing ceremony of the 2014 Winter Olympics, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2014, in Sochi, Russia
BY TREVOR MILLMAN SPORTS EDITOR
AP PHOTO/FRANK FRANKLIN II Americans are recomended to work out at least 4.5hrs a week
BY ELIZA SHIRAZI
STUDENT HEALTH 101
Have you ever walked into a fitness center and been bewildered by the objects being used? Aside from dumbbells, people are throwing big orbs and swinging handled objects around like luggage. It may be nervewracking to step foot in a fitness center, especially if the equipment seems more suited to a circus than a gym. But fear not! These objects are actually quite easy to use and can provide a creative and fun way to improve your fitness. Why use special equipment? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should aim for 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic activity, plus two sessions of muscle-strengthening activities, per week. Things like the BOSU ball, the medicine ball, resistance bands, and kettlebells are all great examples of fun and different exercise equipment. Dr. Davis Smith, an internist at
Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, explains, “These modern pieces of equipment provide a variety of low-impact exercise options that are easily scalable in intensity. They allow access to beginners and the opportunity for increased complexity with strength and skill development.” Plus, she notes, “They tend to be much more interesting and fun than simple weight lifting or using a treadmill or elliptical.” The next time you exercise, try out some of these pieces of equipment and see if one suits your goals and interests. Maria B., a graduate student at Ashford University online, enjoys the psychological benefits of using new equipment. It prevents boredom and keeps her motivated. If you’re unsure how to perform a specific move, make sure to check in with a professional staff member at the gym. Many offer equipment orientations. You can also watch video demonstrations for ideas and to practice your form. You’ll be a kettlebell swinging pro in no time!
The 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics held in Russia have come and gone. Russia celebrated 17 days of sportdriven global unity in Sochi with a beautiful closing ceremony for the Olympic games. With the most expensive Olympics to date, they pass the torch on to the next host city, Pyeongchang in South Korea. “Russia delivered all of what it had promised.” said the head of the International Olympic Committee. A group of 700 dancers formed the five Olympic rings Sunday night during the closing ceremony at Fisht Stadium, but delayed forming the fifth ring in a humorous nod to a pyrotechnic malfunction during the opening ceremony. With a nod to Russia's Olympic past and 900 children carrying small flames, a giant bear extinguished the flame of the
Sochi Games. The 26-foot bear shed a single tear down from his left eye after blowing out a cauldron inside Fischt Olympic Stadium, marking the symbolic end of the 17-day games. The bear's breath was followed by the giant Olympic torch overlooking the coastal cluster of arenas being extinguished. The host country, Russia, walked away with 13 gold medals and 33 overall medals as the victor of the games, while the United States came in 2nd in total medals won with 28, followed by Norway in 3rd with 26 overall medals. Team USA’s most prominent American Olympians— Shaun White, Bode Miller, Shani Davis—won a total of one bronze medal between them. The Americans won no medals in speed skating for the first time since 1984 and no individual figure skating medals for the first time since 1936. The men’s hockey team were outscored 6-0 in the rounds that determined winning
a medal. The Canadians swept Hockey Gold with both men’s and women’s taking the gold in dramatic fashion. The Canadian women’s team beat the U.S. in overtime to take home the gold, as the men’s team beat out Norway in the gold medal game by a victory of 5-0. The United States walked away with a gold medal in figure skating for the very first time in U.S. history thanks to pairs team Charlie White and Meryl Davis, who have been skating together since the age of 7. All in all it was an amazing spectacle of the world's greatest athletes. People are waiting to see an Olympics in the United States, the last games being the 2002 Winter games in Salt Lake City, Utah. There are hopes of the U.S. bidding for the 2022 games and receiving the torch to host the Olympics on U.S. soil.
Is the NFL ready for Michael Sam?
College of the Desert softball schedule March Wed
Mar 5
*San Bernardino Valley
Sat
Mar 8
Fri
Mar 14 *Rio Hondo
Wed
Sat
Sat
Sat
Fri
Wed
Cypress
Mar 12 *Chaffey
Mar 15 Desert vs Santa Ana
Palm Desert 3 PM
Fri
Sat
Wed
Fri
Palm Desert 1 PM
Mar 21 *San Bernardino Valley
Palm Desert 3 PM
Mar 26 *Victor Valley (DH)
Apr 2
Wed
Palm Desert 3 PM
Mar 15 Grossmont vs Santa Ana
Wed
Sat
Rancho Cucamonga 3 PM Palm Desert 11 AM
Mar 28 *Chaffey
Fri
Cypress 1 PM
Mar 15 Grossmont vs Desert
Fri
April
San Bernardino 2:30 PM
Apr 4
Apr 5
Apr 9
Apr 11
Apr 12
Apr 16
Apr 18
Palm Desert 1 & 3 PM
Palm Desert 3 PM
*Rio Hondo
*Barstow
Whittier 3 PM
Fullerton & Los Angeles Valley
*San Bernardino Valley
*Victor Valley
Citrus & Santiago Canyon
*Chaffey
*Rio Hondo
*Foothill Conference
Palm Desert 3 PM
Fullerton 1 & 3 PM
San Bernardino 3 PM Victor Valley 3 PM
Glendora 1 & 3 PM
Rancho Cucamonga 3 PM
Palm Desert 3 PM
IMAGE COURTESY OF NBCNEWS.COM Michael Sam celebrating with Missouri fans. Sam could be first openly gay player in the NFL
TREVOR MILLMAN SPORTS EDITOR
Missouri college football senior defensive end Michael Sam has openly announced that he is gay. If he gets drafted in the May 2014 NFL draft, which according to some experts' opinion he is a 1st round draft pick hands down, he will become the first openly gay player in the history of the NFL. Sam announced that he informed his coaches and teammates back in August of last year and they have been nothing but supportive. He decided to speak out after playing in the College Senior Bowl, he said it seemed many players knew his sexual orientation and he didn’t
want anyone to create controversy or leak anything to the press. “No one else should tell my story but me,” Sam said. Michael Sam is seeing a lot of support, including President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. First Lady Michelle Obama sent out a tweet showing her support saying, “You are an inspiration to all of us, we couldn't be prouder of your courage both on and off the field.” President Obama had more thoughts on Sam’s decision saying, "I really like the fact that Michael did it before the draft," President Obama said. "Because his attitude was, 'You know what? I know who I am. I know I can play great football and judge me on the merits.” The question remains the same,
is the NFL ready for a gay athlete? The situation including former Miami Dolphins offensive linemen, Richie Incognito, harassing fellow teammate Jonathan Martin last year, and all the racial and gay slurs towards a player who was not gay, marks the question: How would teammates actually treat an openly gay player in the same locker room as them? Would they be open and non-judgemental towards a gay man or would they give him grief and hazing. Whatever team Sam ends up on will possibly be the new media frenzy of the NFL. Only time will tell how Michael Sam is received. "I just wish you guys would see me as Michael Sam the football player not Michael Sam the gay football player,” said Sam.