COYOTE CHRONICLES VOL. 69, No. 4 (FALL 2022)

Coyote

Hocus Pocus 2, a Hit or Miss?

By Denise Santana and Michelle Razo Staff Writers

IN THIS ISSUE:

Disney’s newest film Hocus Pocus

causing nostalgia for many

of the cult classic film. Saying

to the original Sanderson

introducing a new trio.

that it still let us down.

Hocus Pocus 2

strong ties

original. The sequel explains

Sanderson

forest by Salem’s townspeople. From there we learn that a witch can unlock their magical powers on their 16th birthday. The sequel then returns to modern-day Halloween 2022 which introduces the new protagonists of the story. Becca, a young witch who is oblivious of her true powers, on her 16th birthday. During her “birthday circle” in the forest, a witchcraft tradition they’ve practiced since they were

5, Becca accidentally brings back the Sanderson sisters by lighting the infamous Black Flame Candle. The Sisters then seek revenge on the descendants of the priest that banished them from Salem in 1653. Becca’s friend Cassie is one of those descendants. Motivated to save her friend, the girls defeat the sisters with the power of friendship. The most noticeable part of the film was the musical numbers. We didn’t expect this film to be a musical.

The Sanderson sisters sing The Witches Are Back and One Way or Another, covering Blondie. The first song was performed as soon as the teenagers brought them back with the Black Flame Candle. There, in the middle of the forest, three witches come to life with a full on invisible band. It made their introduction less “scary” to the audience, which would be

considered Becca and Izzy in this case, and more confusing. In the original film, as soon as the virgin lights the candle, the witches are heard screaming and cackling and burst right through the front door of their old home, immediately creating terror for the

protagonists. The cheesy and misplaced generation Z humor was very noticeable and will probably age like milk. In the scene when Gilbert explains the black candle, he is asked by a child “What’s a virgin?” Everyone on the screen looks at Gilbert awaiting his response awkwardly.

We didn’t mind it once but this style of selfawareness humor

was vomited all over the place. This wasted time and we learned nothing about the relationship among the characters. We are not looking forward to the idea of a possible new series expanding on the Hocus Pocus cinematic universe, but others would want to see the new girls coming back.

“Great movie, loved the

younger Sanderson sisters. Hope we get to see more of them!,” Nicole S. said on Google reviews. In our opinion, the film was cheesy and not necessarily the best use of our time. As Hocus Pocus fans, we were disappointed because the music was over the top and misplaced, the gen Z comedy was not that amusing, and the writing was just poorly done. It is almost safe to assume that Disney did these things intentionally, if we give the Mouse the benefit of the doubt. While there are some that are clamoring for Disney to expand on the stories of the new witches, others would prefer if the remake stopped right there. Disney is famous for turning its beloved films into series for the purpose of making a profit. Many examples such as Peter Pan, The Emperor’s New Groove, Tarzan, and Cinderella to name a few, have gone on to continue their ‘stories’ in the form of TV series.

Fans of Hocus Pocus seem to be split down the middle on whether this film was a hit or miss.

The original Sanderson sisters, Mary, Winnie and Sarah

New generation of witches,

Celeste Santarrosa

Anujin Byambajav

Matthew Vinson

Valerie Garcia

Yadira Pinedo

Marco Vazquez

Walter Slow

Harsh Piyushkumar Shah

Gregory Gondwe

Jessica Block Nerren Linda Sand

Daniel Alas, Ashley Andrade, Joy Barua, Andrea Betancourt, Jacob Cisneros, Emma Curtis, Vasti Fontes, Melissa Garciglia Banuelos, Anneliese Goetz, Julian Gutierrez, Diego Hernandez Gonzalez, Asher Jones, Leandrew Knight, Sarah Lloyd, Natalie Martinez, Ricardo Martinez, Richard Martinez, Justina Mcneal, Aisha Nance, Ponthakorn Pattayakorn, Glenys Rojo, Eric Sandoval, Frank Staggs

Staff Writers are comprised of students enrolled in COMM2391 Practicum: Print & Online Journalism taught by Dr. Gregory Gondwe.

Promotions Staff

Yousef Abosubait, Nesma Ali Ashour, Kayla Bibb, Chevy Boyd, Dante Buycks, Julia Carney, Mirella Chavez, Maura Cruz-Castrillo, Dominic De Jesus, Elsie De La Rosa, Brandon DeLa Torre, Melyssa Gonzales, Brianna Hill, Sean Ibarra, Destiny Johnson, Patrick Marcaida, Angel Martinez Morales, Katelyn McDowell, Maria Mendez, Nubia Meza, Amy Neault, Shardai Perry-Miller, Ryan Ramirez, Sandra Ramirez, Jonathan Sanchez-Chavez, Josh Sandoval, Dean Saravia, Isaac Udo-Ema, Miranda Williams, Tyler Williams

Violence Intervention and Prevention Program Receives Funding

With a growing number of population and crime rates, the VIP program works to prevent the spread of violence in our city.

On September 22nd, the city of San Bernardino was granted 3.8 million dollars to continue and expand its anti-gang violence ( VIP) program. Over the decades, San Berardino has been known for its high crime rates, landing at a rate 2-5 times higher than state and national rates. With the program’s connections to local community organizations, this program has been able to succeed and make a major impact in the lives of many members of the community. Led mainly by members of the Young Visionaries Youth Leadership. This program emphasizes preventing violence in the streets of our community, especially with troubled teens who are at high risk of being exposed to gang life. With ex-gang members also being part of this program, they are a great help in being credible sources. Many times, they help out at crime scenes and also work as mentors to prevent gun violence or any other type of violence in the community. This program had a rocky start and an eight-month delay, but

By Ahily Pichardo Staff Writer

was up and running in January 2019. Its origin is based on the two organizations, —Boston’s Operation Ceasefire (Focused Deterrence) & Los Angeles Gang Reduction and Youth Development Street Outreach

Supportive Services which help reduce violence in communities. The VIP program focuses on not only high-risk youth and anti-gang prevention, but also they focus on building trust, communication, and relationship with our law enforcement. Due to budget cuts and political problems, the

police department wasn’t fully on board with this program. Some of the goals of this program are to: analyze serious violent incidents and trends to identify high-risk individuals, Respectfully communicate the risks associated with violence and incarceration to them through alliances of community leaders, combine supportive relationships and intensive case management to build credible pathways to safety and opportunity for highest risk, and to focus intelligence-driven enforcement efforts on those individuals who persist in violence, creating a danger to themselves and other community members. It doesn’t stop there, the VIP has many supporters and organizations that work with them. With the support of the San Bernardino Sheriff and Police Department, Loma Linda University Medical Center, respected leaders, and many others this organization has been able to grow successfully through the last few years and will continue to grow with this new funding added to the program.

Are you going to Vote Yes on Prop 1?

Women are constantly having to fight for their rights in the United States of America. Now Women are subjected to Roe vs Wade overturn where women of America are banned from abortions.

By Patrice Harris Staff Writer

Women should have the right to decide if they want to bear a child or not. This decision should not be controlled by the government. However, on June 24, 2022, that decision was taken back by the government, when Roe vs Wade was overturned by the U. S Supreme Court.

Banning most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy. Luckily, abortion and contraceptives are legal in California becoming a sanctuary for abortions. Since this overturn we are now heading into Mid elections in 2022. Proposition 1 is on the

ballot and if it is voted for it would officially put these rights in the California Constitution. It is my opinion women’s rights are human rights and abortions should have never been constitutionally protected. Abortions are health care and should be treated as a private matter. I firmly believe that the Government should not have any control over a women’s body. There are so many cases where an abortion is necessary to save a woman’s life. What happens to the women who are facing ectopic pregnancy, rape victims, dead fetuses, homelessness, and domestic violence survivors?

Do we now force these women into a pregnancy where they

are not mentally, emotionally, and physically able to carry a baby? It is for this reason that I believe abortions should be a women’s choice. The U.S. Supreme court failed women and their freedom to decide. However, California is fighting back and has created Proposition1 Reproductive Freedom Act. According to, California attorney general Rob Bonta said, “Prop 1 would expand the rights of mothers. Abortion is safe and legal in California, and we will keep fighting and working together to preserve access.” I am convinced that Proposition 1 will be beneficial to California and will continue to reassure women that they are protected

under the California Constitution. Unfortunately, the other States do not have the same belief and oppress women by making them feel as if they do not have real power. To roll back decades of women’s health and allow a few men to decide on women’s bodies is outrageous. It is for this reason that women believe they do not have political power in this country. Although over 40 million women believe that women’s rights are human rights there are many opposing opinions on this topic. Many conservative justices believe that abortion is murder. Others believe because the Christian Bible states that children are gifts from God; believe abortion is biblically going against the Holy Bible.

Lastly, our mothers, daughters, partners, and friends should have the freedom and right to make personal decisions on their own human rights. Young girls are now frightened for their future leaving them in shambles. People will die because of this decision because safe abortions were taken from them. Ask yourself, what if it was your family member, mother, daughter, or sister who was facing serious health issues and was over 15 weeks pregnant and the doctor said this baby doesn’t have a chance to live because of health issues but you can’t abort the baby due to Roe vs Wade overturn. How would you feel?

CSUSB student discusses surviving horrific car accident

By Denise Santana Staff Writer

A CSUSB student is left crippled after being hit by a car over the summer. On June 28, 2022, Andrew Rodriguez and his friend Gabriella Steven were driving North on State street in Muscoy when Rodriguez’s car ran out of gas. “Rodriguez activated the hazard lights to alert other motorists,” according to Steven’s statement. For five minutes, they stayed in the vehicle while several vehicles drove around them.

Rodriguez then directed Steven to get in the driver seat and steer the vehicle while Rodriguez pushed. Steven started steering the vehicle to the right when Rodriguez’s body and the car collided with the second vehicle going northbound. The second driver, Villegas, was going approximately 40 miles when he saw their car 50ft ahead of him. According to his statement to the police, he said he was “unable to apply the brakes” . Villegas

then turned slightly to the left. “ It was too sudden, I wouldn’t have stopped in time,” said Villegas.

The impact was heard by witnesses in the area. “Suddenly heard a loud boom and observed the Honda had collided with the Pontiac,” said Lampkin, the witness.

Then added her devastating observation after the crash, “a male pedestrian lying on the ground”.

At 12:47 a.m. a 911 call was made, and a medical unit was dispatched to the location. While Rodriguez was on the ground, an off-duty police officer and nurse were in the area and helped him at the scene.

“My friend told me what they did to help me. I have some real angels looking out for me,” said Rodriguez. Sent to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Rodriguez was approached by police and was asked about the accident. Rodriguez had no recollection of the accident. “All I remember was picking up my friend and then being in a hospital bed” said Rodriguez then adding, “My friend told me that after the crash I landed hitting my head”.

He was very fortunate to live, but the impact severely damaged his body. “My right leg broke through the center.I have a chunk of meat missing from my right inner thigh which was sewed up. My skin were scraped on top of my right shoulder and lower right hip cheek. I have suffered from a concussion where I currently have a row staple in my head right now” said Rodriguez. The doctors were surprised that Rodriguez survived. “The doctors told me that it was a miracle I was even alive” said Rodriguez. Steven was injured from the crash as well. “Bruised ribs, and a neck brace” Rodriguez then added, “She’s traumatized and has nightmares of the crash. She replays the moment that my head was landed on the concrete. The accident left Rodriguez crippled, unable to drive or work. He started a GoFundMe to raise funds for a car. Rodriguez is expected to make a full recovery in the next six to twelve months.

Andrew Rodriguez, a junior majoring in Political Science at CSUSB is considering legal action as he recovers from a car accident during the summer

Photo Credit: Denis Santana

Arts

The Ontario Museum of History and Art is celebrat ing the Hispanic holiday, Dia de Los Muertos, with a new art exhibition. This year’s theme is celebrating the caléndula or in English, the marigold flower. The myth goes that the caléndula are meant to help guide spirits to their altars with their pungent scent. The As sistant curator explained the meaning behind selecting the theme at a community reception. “This is the 24th annual Dia de Los Muertos exhibition. This year we wanted to pay homage to the roots of the holiday itself. Throughout the exhibit some artists pay homage to their ancestors and loved ones that have passed on,” said Herrera.

Caléndula has been used in celebrations of death dat ing back to the Aztecs. Embraced death is part of the cycle of life. They did not fear death. In the eyes of an Aztec, to die peacefully would mean going to the Underworld known as Mictlān. To die in battle would mean going to paradise. At this year’s art exhibition artist, Heriberto Luna depicts the third location that the spirits of the Aztecs believed they would go. The Celestial Hummingbird Warrior with Jaguar Head dress depicts the Aztec belief in reincarnation. If a warrior died or if a woman passed during childbirth, the spirits would be reincarnated as a hummingbird. Luna’s piece shows a large hummingbird with a spear head protecting souls guided by the Caléndula. “The Hummingbird with a Jaguar Headdress represents a powerful being protecting souls throughout the recy cling process of human evolution,” said Luna.

The Celestial Hummingbird Warrior with Jaguar Headdress

Remembrance by Amy Smith

Photo

Denise Santana

Familia by Francisco Ramirez

The Battle Between Medicines

By Lizbeth Lopez Staff Writer

In the past 100 to 200 years, traditional medicine has been at its peak. While not only pharmaceutical companies but also hospitals, urge their customers to take these small pills that are said to heal everything in an instant.

Traditional medicine has been advertised to the public to no end, with the promise to solve health issues with just a “small amount” of side effects. This information is spread by public officials, government, hospitals, and even health officials. The general public does not second-guess them. Pharmaceutical companies also have their agenda. Pushing prescriptions when they are not needed and making people believe they do. With the high cost of pharmaceuticals and the rise of addiction, many have either fallen victim to this industry or have been able to get out and find other options. Herbal medicine was introduced thousands of years ago and is heavily relied on by many cultures.As society and technology grow, the concept of medicine has also been modernized. Yet, many cultures still rely on and believe in herbal medicine. The real question is if modern medicine works just as well as herbal medicine does. Or if herbal medicine does anything at all?

Herbal medicine is known to be a natural type of medicine that comes in different forms, such as pills, powders, tea, and even lotions. In order to take herbal medicine as an alternative to traditional medicine, one has to be educated and understand the pros and cons.

Traditional medicine also can cause addictive behaviors and lead to drug abuse. Although many know of the common type of medication that can make one addicted, such as opioids. However, many

underestimate misusing painkillers. A recent study showed that 9.7 million people over the age of 12 misuse painkillers. This shows how many addictive behaviors can come from even the lowest type of medication. Many people associate drug addiction with synthetic drugs such as cocaine, crack, etc, however many don’t realize that most drug addiction cases stem from people who started to take the medication to feel better. As time goes on, they develop a drug tolerance and this makes the patients feel that they need to take more to feel better, thus creating a chain of events leading to addiction. Herbal medicine is mainly used as a way for non-emergency cases, or chronic illnesses which can’t be cured overnight. It is more accessible and affordable for those who can’t keep up with the prices of Big Pharma. Many herbal medications can be grown in your backyard. To make sure that you are following the correct process, it is best to talk to a natural practitioner or a person who is knowledgeable in holistic health. Herbal Medicine is also known to have fewer side effects than traditional medicine. It is more gentle on the body and can help as a supplement in your everyday life. Herbal medicine isn’t only to help while you are sick but can be taken daily to help combat future issues. Overall, traditional medicine is not all bad like many other options, it must be used accordingly and in a safe manner. The best option is to be educated in both holistic medicine and modern medicine. When taking prescriptions, one must be assured that it’s the best option for them. Herbal medicine is natural and accessible, however, if not utilized correctly, it can have serious issues. However, in my opinion, herbal medicine is making its comeback, and it is the best way to relieve care for certain illnesses.

Why I believe the Gym is Therapy

from others rather than growing themselves by themselves.

By Alec Garcia Staff Writer

A great form of therapy many people don’t realize involves going to the gym. Attending the gym can help an individual improve both physically and mentally. Many people try to find ways to keep going, but many times their days are repetitive which causes their mental health to continuously deteriorate. Those who struggle with mental health want to rely on therapy

Working on yourself is so important compared to making an attempt to find yourself through someone else.

We as people only know ourselves best, and relying on therapy is tough when you are reaching out to someone who hardly knows anything about you.

As someone who struggled at a time in my life when it felt like the world was against me in every aspect, getting up to improve myself day by day by falling in love with the gym got me out of these struggles.

There were times of wanting

to give up, going back to being down and hard on myself, but the progress at the gym, the people, and overall being able to see self-growth helped me grow mentally and is something that many people can relate to as well. Going to the gym is something that can replace any type of therapy, many people believe that in order to improve your mental health, you have to grow within yourself and not rely on others. This is why the gym is a huge way and form of therapy for those who need a way of getting that improvement needed in their life.

Bradley Martyn, a man who runs one of the biggest gyms in the U.S. faced a time of hardship in his life when his father took his life when Bradley was just 6 years old. When this happened, he questioned why he wasn’t enough for his father with also why he was feeling such pain at such a young age to this day he wonders why his dad hasn’t answered him back.

“The gym, not just because of the gym, the relationships and the people, the figures that help build me that I was seeking my whole life was so important for me, especially from the aspect of

being alive today,” said Martyn. His improved mental and physical health is what kept him going to the gym. “the gym saved my life”, said Martyn, as he talked about the story of his father. The gym was his therapy and led him to be the man he is today. He couldn’t understand what the point of life was and couldn’t imagine where he would be without it to this day. He never wants a kid like him to feel empty, he wants his gym more than a gym. Rather for it to be a place of therapy for those who face similar struggles.

Why Maternity Leave Should Be Longer Than 8 Weeks

By Mariel Gonzalez Staff Writer

The state of California does not have mandatory maternity leave for employers. Maternity leave if filed in California is only 2 months, which strips away the bonding of the newborn infant with the mother. As inflation goes higher, most pregnant women already begin to think in advance about whether they are going to support their infant and how it is going to happen. Being pregnant can lead to complications for the mother that may require more time off from work.

Childbirth is trauma to the body that would require the body to rest and heal. Most new moms after giving birth are low in defenses and will require rest. Newborn infants are most of the time given to the mom’s chest after birth to create a bond with the baby. The importance of the health of a mother and infant is overlooked. Two months of maternity leave is not enough time for a mother to care for her infant. The Biden Administration has proposed

12 weeks of maternity leave only 4 more weeks to the 8 weeks being given in the U.S. 12 weeks of maternity leave is still not enough. Although the Biden Administration is pushing for 12 weeks, there are lawmakers trying to reduce it to 4 weeks. The United States is supposed to be a first-world country and one of the richest countries. So why is it that people are given very minimum help for a balanced, work and life relationship?

Capitalism has overworked the people, and it is greedy to not provide longer maternity leave which is essential for healthy moms and babies. Here is a look at other countries that provide longer maternity leave than the U.S. Sweden offers 68 weeks of maternity leave, Britain offers 39 weeks, Japan 52

weeks, and Estonia with 82 weeks.

The United States is not even close to any of the other country’s maternity leave time frames. If the U.S is one of the richest countries and the country of dreams why are people’s health not being taken care of? It is essential for both the mother and infant to have enough time together.

Postpartum depression occurs after childbirth, it can be mood swings, crying, difficulty with sleeping, and often anxiety. Postpartum happens due to hormones having higher levels of estrogen and progesterone. After giving birth the hormones drop back to normal, such sudden change can lead to postpartum depression. This can go on for a couple of

weeks to months after childbirth. A mother is not fully at her 100 percent best to go back to work. Studies have shown when employers treat their employees better with benefits and are taken care of, they perform better. Not giving sufficient time to mothers and their infants can lead to burnout and tiresome. If employers want employees to perform at their best, they must offer life, work, and balance when it is required to do so.

In the United States, capitalism has proven to care more about exploiting workers and making money than taking care of their workers. If other countries value the care of bringing a new life into the world, the U.S should as well. The benefits of longer maternity leave are improving the health of the mother after postpartum,

improving the immune system of the infant and overall it improves the mental and physical state of the mother. A longer paid maternity leave can also help in assisting families, and low-income families. It would allow family members to take care of loved ones and their infants. Some if not given enough time off have to quit their job to take care of their infant. Unpaid leave can only cause stress to families that live paycheck to paycheck. With inflation increasing it is causing more financial burden to families. A longer paid maternity leave will mentally and physically be better for the mother and infant. Paid maternity will also secure families and take care of their loved ones. Having a longer maternity leave for the mother and infant together will boost their immune system as well. The United States is one of the wealthiest countries should take care of its citizens well and not exploit them even at their most vulnerable times in life like motherhood. 8 weeks of paid maternity leave is not enough and not even close to other countries’ maternity time frame.

The Mental Healthcare Crisis

By Esteban Hernandez Staff Writer

Mental healthcare is an issue that has long existed in the United States. Recently, our society has been facing major problems in every community involving people suffering from mental health illnesses. Not only is the youth suffering from these issues, but also adults. It is time the government acknowledges this health problem and takes action to save the lives of millions of Americans.

Every day, millions of Americans deal with mental health problems; in some cases, this may lead to depression. Depression creates issues that affect a person’s ability to function at home, with family, at work or school, or in their social life. Someone you know may have a mental disorder that you may not know about; this could be one of your loved ones. Would you not want your loved one to receive the best quality healthcare to help them through this challenging time they may be facing? I believe that it is time the government started to take this issue more seriously and take action through government funding for better quality healthcare assistance.

Many people throughout the United States face multiple challenges

throughout their daily lives. In certain situations, these challenges may cause a person to develop depression; this has the potential to change a person’s life and, in many situations, negatively impact their perception of the world.

It can also influence a person’s behavior and, in some cases, cause them to experience severe thoughts of suicide. According to the Mental Health America nonprofit organization, “The percentage of adults reporting serious thoughts of suicide is 4.84%, totaling over 12.1 million individuals. 11% of adults

who identified with two or more races reported serious thoughts of suicide in 2020 – 6% higher than the average among all adults.”

This is very saddening to hear that people consider their beautiful life meaningless. I believe that every life has a purpose in this world and although sometimes we may be confused about our purpose, there is always hope that life will get better. Sometimes hearing the truth hurts, but it also helps us realize the change the government must make to improve the current situation. Overcoming depression

can sometimes be very hard; it takes more than just a strong mind. Therefore, the government should take action and help those in need by providing communities with support programs that allow people access to accessible and affordable mental health care treatment. According to the Mental Health America nonprofit organization, the government should also take more steps for children, youth, and young adults by providing them with in-school mental health services to prevent and intervene early in mental health conditions.

Lastly, people should be allowed to have easy access to crisis care and suicide prevention hotlines. Ultimately, these programs and services will help save the lives of millions of people and lead to a healthier, strong-minded generation.

Everyone goes through hard times; sometimes, our mental health takes an enormous toll on our life. This is why I consider everyone to be nice to the stranger you meet when you go to the restaurant or when you walk into class because each one of us has our own situation and hardships in life.

It does not take much to be nice to another person; sometimes, all it takes is a smile or some simple words to make a person feel better. For example, I hope you have a good day. Reminding people of their value in this world is the best way to encourage a person to keep on persisting in life. If you or anyone you know is dealing with a mental health crisis, you can always call 988 to receive help and words of encouragement. Friendly reminder that your life is precious and has meaning; there will never be another person like you. You have a purpose in this world, and you bring happiness to everyone in your life. Life is beautiful with you in it.

Photo by Esteban Hernandez

Opinions

Reforming the Supreme Court

By Ruben Velazquez Staff Writer

The Supreme Court Building holds the Nine Justices of the United States.

The United States has been alive for 246 years, creating policies and laws which make this country what it is. However, there is a branch of government that should be reformed: the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court should have a certain amount of time to serve the United States. It is well known that once a Supreme Court justice member is sworn in they work until their retirement, death or if they’re impeached.

The country’s oldest living member of the Supreme Court is Clarence Thomas, who is seventyfour years old. One of the most important branches of the U.S. should not be empowered by older generations or senior citizens. The problem is that older

Texas Sends Out DNA Kits to Parents; Creates Mass Media Frenzy

By Ahily Pichardo Staff Writer

generations are stuck in the way they grew up. Times have changed dramatically, especially since the 1960s when seven out of the nine justices were being raised.

The best possible outcome is to change the lifetime service into a term limit of 12 years. This would make every Supreme Court justice member serve up to three presidential elections.

If we are able to reform this branch then every 12 years we will be able to gain new Supreme Court justices and change the U.S. for the better.

According to the website Demand Justice, it is stated, “Supreme Court confirmations have gotten too political. Instead of having justices serve for life and politically time their retirements, we should create term limits that ensure justices serve a uniform number of years.”

The site continues, ‘Term limits would give each president the

In the wake of the recent tragedy that happened earlier this year in Uvalde, Texas at Robb Elementary School, not only the community, but all across the United States, everyone is asking “How can we keep another mass shooting at a school from taking place? How do we keep our children safe?” In response to these questions, Texas officials have recently announced that they will be sending parents of students K-6 DNA kits.

This has caused some concerns in surrounding communities and all over mass media over the exact purpose of these kits. A lot of people and parents have commented as to why officials are sending these kits now and causing a bit of uneasiness to parents who are nervous enough as it is with sending their kids to school after continuous school shootings these past few years. Confusion about these kits occurred when social media platforms announced Texas’ decision to send out these kits to families

opportunity to appoint the same number of Supreme Court justices each term, reducing partisan gamesmanship around each individual confirmation and making the Court more democratically representative.”

Also, it would be best if there were more Supreme Court justices. Whatever the increased number becomes, it should be an odd number of justices since it guarantees a vote gets passed.

I think having more justices would benefit the U.S. by having more cases heard. The Supreme Court judges over crucial cases, but each case may take up to a year to several years to be heard.

According to the website United States Courts, “The Supreme Court agrees to hear about 100150 of the more than 7,000 cases that it is asked to review each year.”

If we are able to increase the

of school districts. This led to a lot of misinterpretation for not only parents but readers as well. Many people were under the assumption that the reason these DNA kits were being sent out was because of the 19 lives lost in the mass shooting at Robb elementary, where kids were unfortunately not easily identifiable. This can cause some differing points of view on the matter. The reasoning behind these kits was actually introduced more than a year ago and their purpose was to identify lost, missing or trafficked children. Their purpose wasn’t necessarily to identify murdered children in mass shootings, but to help speed up processes when it comes to identifying missing children.

According to Wendi Aarons, a mother of two in Texas told Today, “ It makes me physically sick...”Parents of school kids should be worrying about (parent-teacher organization) sign-up sheets and grades and if their kid likes whatever they’re serving in the cafeteria

number of seats in the Supreme Court then there is a chance that more crucial cases can be heard. According to the site Demand Justice, “While the Supreme Court is the most high-profile part of the judicial branch, the vast majority of cases in the United States are heard at the district and circuit court levels. Here too, our courts are in desperate need of reform.”

Any opportunity the courts get to relieve some of the workloads for each other and ensure Americans get their justice in a timely manner should be at the forefront of concerns.

In addition to the lack of judges in the court system, Demand Justice also says, “Our courts face a crisis of diversity. Judges in America do not look like the people they serve, and Donald Trump has made the problem worse by appointing an overwhelmingly

that day, not their child’s murder and if they’re shot so many times their body cannot be identified.”

Contrary to this mother’s interpretation, the kit’s main purpose is to help locate and return a missing or trafficked child. The kits contain fingerprint and identification information for authorities to help find a child.

If this was something that was introduced years ago then maybe it would be part of a normal process in society to have DNA kits available. Instead, officials send out DNA kits to school districts specifically elementary schools in Texas which are still grieving.

Maite Valenzuela, a student and mother here at CSUSB came across a post that talked about these kits and shared how uncomfortable she thought it was. “My oldest daughter is barely in preschool this year and I was so nervous sending her to school knowing that our government isn’t doing enough to keep our kids protected from shootings.”

white and male group of judges.” The lack of diversity and judges is concerning, but there has yet to be any movement to improve these issues.

In short, the United States needs to reform the Supreme Court by giving a term limit of 12 years so that the justices do not abuse their power and wait for retirement. In order for our country to grow we need diversity in our Supreme Court. We should also appoint new justices to the Supreme Court in hopes of a more justice and safe America.

When asked how she would feel if she received a DNA kit for her daughter she shared, “I think it’s kind of sickening that this is something they thought to do. I don’t know how I would feel being handed a DNA kit for my child just in case an emergency happens.”

The timing of the announcements and distribution of the DNA kits was wrong. I get that it is never too late to take safety precautions, but these kits are what is needed to prevent ensure the safety of children.

Children deserve to go to school and know that they are in a safe environment. Parents should be at ease sending their children to school without being scared for the safety of their kids. Instead of sending out these kits, political officials should be coming up with ways to keep schools safe enough to where an individual with access to an armed weapon can’t access a school.

By Ruben Velazquez Staff Writer

Opinions

Esports are Sports, But Better

It’s easy to dismiss video games as a silly hobby, but when it comes to Esports, video games create a thrilling and engaging experience at the same level as traditional sports media. The rise of Esports has raised a question – are Esports sports? The answer is yes. The identity of sports has evolved and players are now dropping the ball and picking up a mouse and keyboard; the players portray different appearances, but they both love the game they play.

Esports has been on the rise over the last decade but received a recent bump with the increase of virtual schools and workplaces. Esports is the culmination of highly skilled players forming or joining a team and competing on a professional level. These players are playing for more than just recreational fun; they are playing for the same reason as professional football players: the love of the game, notoriety, and money. Although Esport players are not physically working out the same muscles as football or soccer players, they are still exercising and perfecting the skills that are important to the required game. Similar to other traditional sports, Esports have their own specific set of skills that are important to them to win the game. We can look at the Oxford definition of sports and use the traditional meaning, like Bella Mezzacapo used in their opinion piece concluding with, “esports are not real sports because of the lack of physical exertion, full-body coordination, athleticism, and intensity.” This ignores the fact

that most people enjoying sports are not on the field playing. Sports are more of a viewing experience driven by fans in their homes. Someone who loves sports does not have to play them to enjoy them.

Esports have a high viewership similar to most popular sports, only surpassed in viewership by football. According to esports. net, video game viewership has grown 10 to 11 percent in recent years and is expected to reach

800 million by late 2023. These numbers do not include any statistical data from China or the live audience in the stadiums. Sports are driven by the fanbase’s passion. Sports are no longer defined by physical activity, it is now the shared experience by the fans that support them. Esports has the added benefit of catering to a wide range of different interests. Fans of Esports, similarly to traditional sports fans, have

preferences and different interests in the games they watch. They are also not limited by the traditional sports media and can rewatch games or catch up with their favorite teams at their leisure, as most Esports games take place online through free streaming avenues such as Twitch or YouTube. No matter if the sport is played on a field or in the virtual world the fans still show their pride, through their comments in the live chat rooms or by wearing

their favorite team jerseys. Esports was positively affected by the pandemic, both because of their easy online access and the introduction of traditional sports to Esports. A Formula One Esports league was launched in 2017 with 63,000 participants. Its popularity led to the official involvement of Formula One. This led to an improved organization of teams and large sponsorship opportunities for many teams. In 2020 during the height of the pandemic, 10 teams competed for a record-breaking $750,000 prize. The NBA also had its own Esports league with over 22 teams; currently, most of which are affiliated with actual traditional basketball teams.

Esports is extending the reach of traditional sports as well as its original audience, as the increase in online access has brought a whole new wave of viewers.

The true essence of sports has evolved from a physical athletic showdown to a viewing engagement of pride and passion.

It is no longer about what sport is being played, but about the audience’s engagement and what they love. Sporting events may have started as a showcase of athleticism, but today the majority of people that love sports are not on the field. Esports is beginning to break the barriers between what people consider to be sports and what the meaning of watching a sport is. Esports are sports, and they’re the next step in the evolution of sports entertainment.

Can You Separate Artfrom the Artist?

By Kevin Palma Staff Writer

In light of the new Kanye West backlash from his antisemitic remarks, the age-old question of whether one can ethically support an artist’s work despite controversial actions is being begged once again.

Artists such as Michael Jackson, The Smiths, John Lennon, and arguably even now, Kanye West, have long been criticized for their contentious actions, and the internet hive mind has long called for their art to be ostracized and to no longer be enjoyed.

It is my opinion that canceling an artist has no impactful effect on whether an individual can ethically enjoy their subsequent work or whether or not they should or should not.

Although critics argue that since art is selfexpressive, it is unethical to support a canceled artist’s work, I believe that since appreciation and attraction are mechanical.

Art is not always indicative of someone’s character and that it is possible to separate the art from the artist, any individual can ethically choose to consume media and art of all forms.

Appreciation and enjoyment of art is mechanical and intrinsic to the human experience.

What I mean by this is that humans enjoy things and it isn’t always as complex as having a deep emotional connection to something.

I would argue that most

our primitive monkey brains just like things because they are.

Someone can listen to a song from Kanye West and just enjoy it for what it is instead of playing some mental gymnastics game around it.

Internet dwellers and self-appointed moral righteousness leaders can try to make some objective point about whether one’s music is more ethical than the others, however, music and its enjoyment are innate and out of our control.

Art is also not always indicative of someone’s character. This can go for both the artist and the consumer.

For example, while Kanye West may have said inappropriate words to the Jewish, Black, Your Mom, LGBTQ+, and many other communities, his songs don’t exactly reflect these views.

You would never be able to tell Ye’s economic or cultural position on a song like Ghost Town.

Moreover, someone who listens to a song like Ghost Town isn’t perpetuating, supporting, or holding these bigoted views either.

To say that art isn’t self-expressive is wrong, but to say that art is poised with every thought or action an artist has done is just as incorrect.

It is possible to separate the art from the artist.

This question of whether it is possible or not

artist.This question of whether it is possible or not to separate the art from the artist is inherently subjective.

It’s subjective because it is questioning our morals and value systems. An artist can say or do something that can offend one group while not offending another- it’s all subjective to you and your values.

While the media and opinion leaders can attempt to sway your opinion and often force the feeling of oppression on you, the ultimate choice is in the individual.

The internet hivemind and the media are not objective arbiters of morality and consciousness, it’s all fake anyways.

When the goal is to be as likable and marketable as possible, of course, the majority is going to side with the “least objectionable” side.

I’m not here to tell you that you should support a canceled artist, I’m just making the case whether you can ethically support one or not.

Ultimately, I believe it should be left to you whether or not you listen to Kanye West or any other artist that the rectitudinous majority have disagreed with.

Art is subjective and to enjoy it is only natural. Think freely and don’t let some suit at the top of an elite-run business organization tell you what you can or cannot do.

Team USA celebrating a hard-earned win against China during the Overwatch World Championship at Blizzcon.

Photo By Carlton Beener

U.S education should consider teaching foreign language to students

By Anissa Torres Staff Writer

Less than 25% of Americans do not know more than one language. The United States should improve the edu cation system by implementing foreign language education as early as elementary school.

In the United States, the education system lacks instruc tion in a foreign language. Many do not learn another language unless it’s their parents’ lan guage. It should be required for students in Elementary school to learn a foreign language in the United States educational system. European countries require students from as early as the age of six to learn a foreign language. Learning a foreign lan guage should be easily accessible to young students. Some states in the U.S. do not have a foreign language requirement set for students to graduate high school. The United States is a multi-lan guage country that’s filled with diverse backgrounds we do not have a national language set. The U.S. receives thou

sands of foreign- students entering our country every year to study, but we may not offer the language as an option to learn.

Foreign language will open the door to new opportu nities, whether it’s in the United States or abroad. Implementing a foreign language from a young age can help students perfect the language by the time they gradu ate high school.

The United States is a diverse country filled with many different languages. It is often foreigners who come to the U.S. that don’t know English and it is hard to communicate with them. If students like myself were taught a foreign language when entering elementary school we would be more diverse in the lan guages we speak. When someone knows a foreign language, it is because it is part of their culture; or their parent’s native language. Some jobs require you to be bilingual or even offer to pay you more for speaking another language. Working in the service

industry, you often meet peo ple that don’t speak the same language.

Language barriers are hard to get around. In the service industry, like retail jobs, consum ers are often frustrated that they are unable to get the help they need.

We do have the technology right at our fingertips that can help translate, but often it does not translate well. People often expect foreigners to come to America knowing English, but when traveling abroad we hope that they speak English. This is a bit ignorant to have that type of mindset. We cannot of course know every language, but we can at the very least be able to un derstand/speak another language other than English.

Beginning a foreign language from elementary school can help students learn a foreign language in smaller steps rather than cramming it all in later on. Most students in the United States do not begin to learn a

foreign language until they are in high school because it is part of a requirement to graduate.

Even with that being a requirement for graduation, not every state has that same require ment. Some studies show that it’s easier for young children to learn a foreign language than adults do.

Europeans are taught from a young age their language, English, and another foreign lan guage. Europeans are trilingual instead of bilingual.

The United States is a country rich in diversity we often get many foreigners that come here to get their education. Foreigners come to the United States to learn from some of our top schools, yet we do not offer foreign language classes beginning in elementary; like their home countries do. Less than 25% of the population in the United States can speak a foreign language.

Compared to other European countries we have

similar ways of teaching, ex. essays and testing, yet we do not implement foreign languages. I have asked friends, classmates, and even coworkers if they speak more than one language; when they do it’s not because they learned it in school, but rather they learned from their parents.

Implementing foreign language as a requirement in elementary school is crucial to keep our country moving forward on the right path.

Opinions

Should we be worried About TikTok’s Policies?

By Alec Garcia Staff Writer

Social media has become an inescapable facet of life, with TikTok being among the most popular social media apps today and having one of the largest user bases.

surface, these guidelines seem reasonable. They address issues like minor safety, bullying and harassment, and violent and graphic content, among other things. This policy fails in its enforcement, however. Anyone that regularly uses TikTok

detergent in their mouths. There are numerous other examples, however, such as the 2020 trend that encouraged users to dress up as holocaust victims while acting and lip-synching to sad music. That’s saying nothing of the numerous accounts of TikTok stars

the app has attempted to combat, and it results in creators whose only crime was being different is now getting bullied off the app. While it’s impossible to rid social media of all toxicity, there are obvious flaws in TikTok’s community guidelines that should

Because of its algorithms, it also has one of the most diverse ranges of content available. However, TikTok needs to improve its censorship policies, as it has failed to adapt to its user base and puts certain creators at an increased risk for harm.

The platform consistently fails to identify or stem harmful behavior. This harmful behavior is much more likely to be directed toward queer or neurodivergent creators, a fact that has yet to be addressed.

The current censorship guidelines are flawed and heavily police certain behaviors while allowing actual harmful behaviors to continue. In order to create a healthier climate on its platform, TikTok needs to reassess and improve its censorship policies to mitigate the effects of harmful trends and behaviors on its users.

When millions of people coexist on a platform, conflicts about issues such as political beliefs are inevitable. It then falls on the company running the forum to enforce policies that mitigate the extent and harm of that conflict.

TikTok does this through its community guidelines. On the

is aware of the workarounds that creators are forced to adopt in order to protect their content from censorship. Slang like “sewer slide” and “le$bean” became widely used when creators noticed that content containing certain words was consistently being shown to smaller audiences.

The hashtag “fake body” has become common recently as a means to prevent videos of adult creators consensually posting themselves getting ready or wearing swimsuits from getting taken down. This is often done under claims that the creator violated minor safety guidelines.

The false identification of content as harmful leads to another, much more pressing issue. TikTok’s community guidelines punish certain behaviors while allowing actual harmful behaviors to continue. Examples of trends that have gone too far are so pervasive that some have been reported on by mainstream news networks.

The most obvious example of this is the “tide pod challenge” where, in 2018, a trend called for people to burst the laundry

using their status to groom their underaged fans. Even worse, many of these creators are still allowed on the app and have millions of, presumably young, followers. TikTok’s community guidelines do little to stop such content, putting underaged users at risk and allowing blatantly antisemitic content on their platform, while the app continues to arbitrarily censor the language and bodies of adult creators. TikTok’s failure to identify harmful behavior especially impacts queer and neurodivergent creators. Labeling queerness or neurodivergent behavior as “cringe” is nothing new, but the form this takes on TikTok is especially insidious. This can be seen in a recent example, where TikTok creator fuzz99, or Mol, was targeted because of his childish, almost cartoonish demeanor in his videos, as well as his focus on LGBTQ+ topics. This escalated to the point where Mol faced real-life harassment and was advised by police to stay off TikTok. The impression that harassment of “cringe” content is permitted by TikTok isn’t one that

be addressed. Social media isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, and it’s up to us to ensure that it’s as safe and inclusive as possible moving forward. So, next time you pick up your phone to scroll through TikTok, think, what kind of online culture am I participating in and how can I make it more inclusive?

Photo via TikTok

TikTok users participate in the “holo caust challenge,” where they pretend to be holocaust victims. This rep resents one of many harmful trends to come out of TikTok.

CSUSB’s Women’s Volleyball Melissa Garciglia

By Yadira Pinedo Staff Writer

The women’s volleyball team at CSUSB has had a victorious beginning to its fall season. They traveled to Hawai’i for the Magic Island Hawai’i Classic where they secured four victories in a row – an exciting way to return home. The home opener against Sonoma State

Yadira: What part of the game do you enjoy the most?

Melissa: When you feel pressure, and you don’t know whether you’re going to win or not, and then you overcome that and take the game, that’s the best part. It’s stressful and to be honest, it gives me a lot of anxiety. You have to become mentally strong to overcome those moments so when we do it

added another W to their record which successfully followed with six more wins out of the seven games that followed. Melissa Garciglia (#24), from La Paz, Mexico, is a senior this season, and she gracefully shared some insight about her teammates and herself.

from Hawaii where you swept through the Magic Hawai’i Classic, walking away with all 4 victories. What do you think played a major role in such a successful outcome?

Melissa: GREAT! That’s what my coach says all the time before we start playing or doing anything. She says that she wants us to be a team that is capable of

When we were losing, everyone kept fighting and we followed our instincts and began to rely on each other, and it carried us to win.

won, what is expected of you and your team this season?

Melissa: I came here the year after they won, but honestly, it’s hard –every day, during every practice. It requires you to be mentally strong. They’re going to ask you to give 150 to 200 percent every practice. If you’re not trying to be almost perfect, you should not be there. They have high standards and high expectations, all the time, both coaches and players. I’m going to do everything possible to win.

Championship pedigree and Personality, the Las Vegas Aces enjoy a team photo op with their hard-earned Championship Hardware.

Yadira: After a loss, how do you and the team recover and move forward to prepare for a better game?

as a team, I feel like we’re strong and we can handle it. We strive and we keep going, no matter what.

Yadira: You ladies just returned

overcoming all situations and not giving up no matter what. What got us to win that tournament was “great” and we never gave up.

Yadira: The women’s volleyball team is the national champion. Congratulations! With such championships

Melissa: You need to switch it up like the snap of your fingers. Okay, you lost, what are you going to do? What do you learn about this game? If you keep thinking about the loss, you’re going to lose the next one. We always have meetings and I think a huge part of moving forward comes from

Can the Phillies Ring the Astros’ Bell?

By Daniel James Kircher Staff Writer

The Philadelphia Phillies and Houston Astros begin the 2022 Major League Baseball World Series on Friday, October 28th at five o’clock Pacific Standard Time. This year’s MLB World Series includes the American League Pennant winners, The Houston Astros, who seem the be the favorite heading into the World Series. They will be facing the National League Pennantwinning Philadelphia Phillies. The Phillies have overcome adversity after entering the playoffs as a wildcard contender and defeating team after team to prevail in the big show, the World Series. As this team has shown grit and grind all season and postseason, the entire team has been confident and performing at the caliber it takes to win a World Series. During the Phillies’ strong and unexpected postseason run, the team has

strung together excellent pitching throughout their starting rotation alongside powerful hits that have propelled the team to victory. The Philadelphia Phillies have what it takes to overcome yet another obstacle and win the most important series of them all and defeat the heavily favored Houston Astros. The Phillies have embraced the underdog role throughout the playoffs and have excelled in the World Series due to their starting pitcher holding up far into each game. The Phillies’ starting

pitching rotation includes Aaron Nola, Zach Wheeler, Ranger Suarez, and Noah Syndergaard who was acquired from the Los Angeles Angels this year before the trade deadline to bolster their starting pitching rotation. The Phillies’ top two pitching aces, Aaron Nola, and Zach Wheeler, who are both scheduled to start games one and two for the World Series, have both pitched tremendously. Although they have given up hits, they have prevailed in multiple innings stranding runners on base.

With the starting rotation for the Phillies’ efforts, the bullpen for the Phillies came in and followed suit, showing yet another reason why this team is fully capable of winning it all this year. The bullpen is led this postseason by Seranthony Dominguez and Jose Alvarado, both of who have pitched key innings and allowed minimal runs throughout six and three games respectfully. The Phillies’ pitchers have all been pitching with confidence and continuously show great control and location, placing pitches perfectly for timely strikeouts and double-play balls. All pitchers aside, one of the main reasons why the Phillies have a great shot of upsetting the Astros and winning this year’s World Series, is power. The team itself has a deep core of offensive talent that can crush the ball on any given pitch. Bryce Harper, a recent MVP, has been showing why he was worth his contract – hitting this postseason with over a .400 average along with five home runs. None

the coaching staff. They do a pretty good job when it comes to different situations that we don’t expect. Of course, everyone is upset, but they talk to everyone. They also have talks with specific players to help shift our mindset. Yadira: Within your career as a volleyball player, is there a match or tournament that stands out in your mind? Why? Melissa: In Mexico, I played for the nationals and I won medals for two years. I’ve practiced with the national team many times and finally two summers ago, I had the chance to play with the national team for the sub-23. It was a blessing because I wanted to play for the national team since I was 13 – it was my dream. When I achieved that, it was something really big for me and my family. I’m the first person from my state to play with the national team – so, these accomplishments are amazing. more important and timelier than the go-ahead home run that sent them into the World Series. The first baseman, Rhys Hoskins, has also provided power as he added five home runs during this stellar postseason run. Kyle Schwarber, who participated in this year’s 2022 MLB home run derby, added some power of his own, blasting three home runs. One home run occurred during the postseason which was the second longest recorded home run in terms of feet during the postseason in MLB history. The Philadelphia Phillies have been playing as a team and what they have strung together all around has shown just what baseball is about. In an ode to the 2008 World Series-winning Philadelphia Phillies, this same 2022 team holds similar characteristics and power that sparked the Phillies to win only their second World Series in franchise history. Can this year be the third? With an all-around sound team, the Phillies have what it takes to defeat the Astros.

Picture Credit: Matt Kelly, Journalist for MLB.com