Coyote Chronicle VOL. 70, ISSUE 8

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Celebrating Black Resistance

By Rowan Shultz Staff

On February 18, Professor Kashaunda Harris presented a program illustrating the history of Black resistance in America at the Redlands A.K. Smiley Library in honor of Black History Month.

According to the news brief provided by the A. K. Smiley Public Library staff, Professor Harris is a counselor for Extended Opportunity Programs & Services (EOPS) and Faculty Lead of Professional Development at Crafton Hills College. She is also a two-time recipient of “Faculty of the Year” with Chaffey College and has held multiple local, regional, and state leadership positions.

Professor Harris worked as a counselor at California State University, San Bernardino, from 2011 until 2015. She continues to work as a counselor, as well as a professor, with Crafton Hills College.

Professor Harris succeeded in celebrating this year’s theme of “Black Resistance” for Black History Month in her program, From Struggle to Strength – American History of Black Resistance.

The program presented an

overview of the history of Black resistance in the United States, from early fights for freedom from slavery to more recent Black Lives Matter protests. Culturally significant: music, art, movements, and people, were showcased to frame this timeline.

Overall, Professor Harris

wanted attendees to take away a deeper understanding of “the richness of the history of the culture…to pay homage to all the things and all the struggles that we’ve endured because it makes so much of a difference in how we get to celebrate now, and how prepared we are for some of the things in our future.”

Professor Harris highlighted the importance of events like this, reflecting that “it’s a way to learn, to grow…education unlocks that key to freedom…it helps you to learn how to see the world, how to interact with other people.”

The presentation and Professor Harris emphasized that, as times change, it is increasingly necessary to examine America’s history to navigate changes and prevent the repetition of past mistakes.

Professor Harris observed that “if you know about your past, you’re equipped to handle

the future.”

The program opened with a demonstration of a libation ceremony, a culturally significant ritual that involves the pouring of a liquid, in this case, water, to call upon ancestral spirits during important events or celebrations. Audience members were asked to participate in this process, providing a hands-on learning opportunity and a chance to engage directly with this cultural ritual.

Professor Harris emphasized that there are more than just the benefits of knowledge and increased exposure to African American culture when engaging in such learning opportunities.

“It just helps me to understand and to appreciate the education I was given,” said Professor Harris.

Professor Haris explained that her decision to immerse herself in African American studies led to the discovery of a

new source of joy for herself.

“For me, it was just about learning all the things that I had not been exposed to in K-12… that joy, it radiated in me,” said Professor Harris.

Many libraries offer educational programs like Professor Harris’s, often with free admission. This is done to make such education and exposure more accessible to the public.

On the A. K. Smiley Public Library website, one can find the clever disclaimer that “The only ‘admission fee’ is curiosity.”

Professor Harris was grateful for the opportunity to present for the first time at the A. K. Smiley Public Library and requests that the library, schools, and other community spaces “continue to have events where… we get to tell these stories, that way people can learn and flourish.”

On February 18, Professor Kashaunda Harris presented a program illustrating the history of Black resistance in America at the Redlands A.K. Smiley Library in honor of Black History Month.

Writer

President Morales speaks on MSU shooter

Professor Kashaunda Harris delivers a presentation honoring Black History Month. Photo by Rowan Shultz.

The historic AK Smiley Library in Redlands. Photo credited to Redlands Area Historical Society.

Contributors

Editor-in-Chief

Managing Editor

Copy Editors

Celeste Santarrosa

Alyse Deatherage

Denise Santana

Alexis Corine McGowan

Graphic Designer

Sports Editor

Social Media Manager

Web tech manager

CSUSB welcomes a rare blizzard

Stevi Montes

Matthew Vinson

Yadira Pinedo

Samantha Vasquez

Dimpul Nallagatla

Faculty Advisor

Gregory Gondwe

Gregory.Gondwe@csusb.edu

Linda Sand

LSand@csusb.edu

Staff Writers

Samantha Vasquez, Cassandra Moreno, Ariana Cervera, Ruben Velazquez, Warren Flowers, Eric Navarro, Kolbie McQueen, Caitlyn Kautzman, Olivia Ramsey, Ahily Pichardo, Angel Reyes, Robert Brawley, Avrie Mccumber, Rigoberto Aguilar, Alyssa Panduro, Rowan Shultz, Jesse Vargaj, Marlee Nunley, Windy Wickramaratne, Camilla De La Fuente, Gabriela Lopez, Haylie Spargo, Angelique Moreno, Alec Escarcega

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

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The Coyote Chronicle is published every other Thursday during the academic session by the Communication department. The opinions expressed in the Chronicle are those of the student writers and editors and do not reflect the views of the university, its faculty, or any other person or institution unless expressly noted. The appearance of any advertisement in the Chronicle does not represent an endorsement of the products or services advertised. The Chronicle reserves the right to edit or reject all materials submitted to the paper.

California State University, San Bernardino, located adjacent to the San Bernardino mountain towns, was hit by a blizzard for the first time in decades, causing classes to be canceled and snow to pile up on the campus.

The storm caused travel disruptions and power outages in several regions, with emergency services warning people to stay indoors and avoid driving on icy roads. The last time the university witnessed such extreme weather conditions was decades ago, making this a rare event for the community.

Southern California is currently experiencing a potent winter storm that has caused temperatures to plummet and lowered snow levels across the region. On the morning of Thursday February 23, light snow fell in several areas, including Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, La Crescenta, La Cañada Flintridge, Sun Valley, and San Bernardino County, including Fontana and Yucaipa, while scattered rain showers and hail were more widespread.

The inclement weather caused slick and icy conditions in Yucaipa, which contributed to a 20-car pileup that sent eight people to the hospital overnight.

Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia announced that it would not open on February 23 due to the severe weather conditions.

The winter storm also brought periods of heavy rain and snow to Southwest California on Friday February 24 and Saturday February 25.

High wind and winter storm warnings were issued for Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Ventura counties.

The NWS has also issued a blizzard warning for mountain areas in Ventura and L.A. counties, which took effect at

4 a.m. Friday February 24 and extended through 4 p.m. on Saturday February 25.

“We have not experienced blizzard-like conditions in our Southern California mountains since before 2007,” KTLA weatherman Kaj Goldberg said. “So, we’re getting ready for a historic event.”

The NWS warned that snow accumulations up to 5 feet and wind gusts more than 55 mph were expected, and low snow levels meant that this was the largest amount of 24-48 hour snowfall seen in decades for both the Ventura and Los Angeles County mountains. Caltrans warned nonessential travelers to avoid areas of the San Bernardino County Mountains, like Big Bear, where snow began falling on Wednesday and continued into the weekend.

In the Angeles National Forest, The 2 Freeway was closed from 3.3 miles east of Newcomb’s Ranch to Vincent Gulch Road, and a requirement for vehicles to use chains between Vincent Gulch Road and Wrightwood was put in place. Foothill communities and even the famous Hollywood Sign could also see snowflakes mixed in with heavy rain.

The NWS warned of potential flooding and issues near burn scars on Friday February 24, with rainfall rates of up to 1 inch an hour on the frontal band of the storm expected to bring between 2 and 4 inches of precipitation.

Saturday February 25 was the last day of rainfall in the

Previous to the weekend, Andrew Tardy, with the National Weather Service, told KTLA that they expected to see 1 to 2 inches of snow per hour and 2 to 3 feet of snow by Saturday evening.

Snow levels began to drop from the mountains down to elevated valleys and mountain passes in the L.A. area Thursday morning. Elevations as low as 1,000 feet could see 1 to 6 inches of snow, creating dangerous

forecast, and brought heavy showers, lightning, and small hail in some areas. Previous to the storm, NWS warned of the potential for waterspout activity over the ocean and brief, small tornadoes near the coast.

Dangerous marine conditions with seas peaking between 13 and 22 feet were forecasted from Tuesday through Friday.

By Coyote Chronicle Staff Reporter

driving conditions on the 5 Freeway through the Grapevine and elsewhere.

The last time San Bernardino saw a blizzard of this magnitude was in 1979, according to the National Weather Service. Photo by Coyote Chronicles Staff Reporter.

Snow captured falling over the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles. Photo credited to Reuters News.

President Morales shares thoughts on MSU active shooter

By Celeste Santarrosa Editor in Chief

Michigan State University, known for being one of the country’s biggest, greenest campuses and home to the mighty Spartans, fell victim to a mass shooting catastrophe with three dead and five critically wounded.

On February 13, identified suspect Anthony Dwayne McRae, 43, opened fire on two parts of campus, Berkey Hall and MSU Union.

At 8:18 p.m., the first call reported an active shooter at Berkey Hall, located on the northern boundary of campus. Officers across the state arrived at the university building within minutes and found several victims with life-threatening injuries, counting two dead. Instantly, another shooting was reported at MSU Union, where officers found a third victim.

MSU officials sent a blast text message at about 8:30

p.m. to alert students. “Secure in place immediately,” the messages said. “Run, hide, fight.”

Michigan State Police, Meridian Township police, and the Ingham County Sheriff’s office, including its regional special response team, worked

with on-site MSU campus police.

MSU police reported on-campus security cameras recorded McRae at approximately 11:00 p.m.

“The suspect photos were disseminated across MSU DPPS social media channels and

through our media partners at 11:18 p.m. Because of the quick release of photos, a caller’s tip was able to lead officers to the suspect at approximately 11:35 p.m., only 17 minutes after the release of the photos,” said the MSU Department of Police and

Public Safety.

MSU students shared footage on a social media platform, TikTok, describing the chaos of the mass shooting.

TikTok posts showcased: students barricading their dormitory door with cabinets hiding in the dark, watching the news muted for the latest updates; students fleeing in a stampede in fear for their lives; and students expressing the unfairness of living through 2021 Oxford High School’s mass shooting 15 months ago and finding themselves living through the experience again.

Students hid in classrooms, dormitories, and cars for four hours until officials announced that McRae had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

On February 15, a communal vigil was held at MSU to grieve the trauma and maintain remembrance of those victims.

Continued on Page 11

Improving mobility and flexiblity at CSUSB

By Avrie McCumber Staff Writer

The stresses and schedule of everyday life are a major concern for our bodies.

Emmanuel Morales is on a mission to counteract that by teaching college students how to be physically mobile and flexible.

You can catch Morales every Tuesday and Thursday from 11:00 to 11:30 a.m. in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center (SRWC), room 205, at California State University, San Bernardino. Morales works as a personal trainer and group instructor at CSUSB. In an interview with Morales, the importance of mobility was a major concern and priority of his.

Q: Why is mobility important?

A: Mobility to me equals physical freedom. The more limber and supple you are now, the longer you’ll have that range of motion into your later years. Tight muscles and joint complexes may lead to sports or athletics injuries. Doing what you can to prevent that could save you from the recovery time. It’s also important to note that mobility requires strength as well. Being too flexible in certain areas while weak in others may cause an injury as well. It’s a

very interesting balance. I think people should work on their mobility to carry healthy habits in their day-to-day life and for years to come.

Q: Why do you think students struggle with their body’s mobility?

A: I think students struggle with mobility because of stress and the common positions we put our bodies in, such as sitting for long hours and craning our necks with our phones and laptops.

My class focuses on flexibility and mobility training. We work on stretches and strengthening exercises that increase the range of motion for commonly tight areas and joints.

Q: Who is your class for?

A: Anyone can join! I provide different options and tools to help people get a good stretch wherever they are. If you’re a more flexible individual, I also provide some extra tips to keep and increase your range of motion.

Q: What is your advice for people who may be struggling with their flexibility and mobility?

A: My advice for people looking to increase flexibility and mobility is patience and warmth, figuratively and literally. Being flexible takes time and consistency, like gaining muscles or new skills. Being cold and not ready to do stretches could cause strain. I recommend some slight movement beforehand. Remember to be patient with yourself. Our bodies are amazing and the things we can accomplish are stunning, but it takes time. So be warm to yourself.

Q: Is there anything else you would like people to know?

A: I want people to consider how often we forget the wonderful things our bodies are.

We usually forget because we tend to move from point A to point B, sit in the same places, and do the same things again and again. But there are thousands of points between one movement and the next, there are hundreds of muscle fibers activating and firing

every second. Stretching and moving in new ways can remind us how much control we have over ourselves and what we can accomplish. Movement is heavily tied to choice. Sometimes knowing we can choose simple things like stretching can remind us we can choose incredible things like our dreams and goals.

Mobility is important to the growth and sustainability of the human body. The first step is going out there and moving. Luckily anyone at CSUSB can attend.

On February 15, The Rock, a favored MSU landmark, became a temporary memorial.

Photo credited to Jake May/The Flint Journal/AP.

Emmanuel Morales showing his mobility in front of the recreation & wellness center.

Staying flexy on the CSUSB San Bernardino campus. Photos by Miriam Martinez.

By Olivia Ramsey Staff Writer

It is no secret that being so close to the mountainside of San Bernardino means California State University, San Bernardino, and CSUSB students are met with some pretty familiar creatures. After all, there is a reason Cody, CSUSB’s mascot, is a coyote. But sightings of these animals have left students wondering if they are out to play or out looking for prey.

Coyotes are a species of canine native to North America. They are smaller than their close relative, the wolf, including the closely related eastern wolf and red wolf.

When living within proximity to humans, coyotes tend to be nocturnal but may also be active in the early morning and at sunset. In areas with little or no human activity, coyotes will hunt during the day, and when a litter of pups needs to be fed, they may have to hunt around the clock.

I sat down with Ditho Martosono, Emily Ficek, and Lavena Griffin, who all live in San Bernardino and have had some not-so-positive experiences with these creatures here at

By Alyse Kiara Deatherage Managing Editor

As egg prices have fallen in states across America, many are still looking for answers on what caused such a shortage and record-breaking price increases for this staple of the American Household.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported in January that the cause of the dramatic increase in prices of eggs was the Highly pathogenic avian flu (HPAI), which hit farms across the country in the spring of 2022.

In a report from January 11, the Economic Research Service of the USDA reported an increase in egg costs from lower than 200 cents per dozen in January to over 500 cents per dozen by December 2022.

The USDA reported a 29 percent loss in egg-laying hens, resulting in around 43 million hens lost across egg producers.

They additionally stated that the need for eggs is heightened during the holiday season, and so this led to a dramatic increase in prices leading into the 2023 year.

“Lower-than-usual shell egg inventories near the end of the

year, combined with increased demand stemming from the holiday baking season, resulted in several successive weeks of record high egg prices,” reported the ERS of the USDA. Such an increase led to prices rising 210 percent higher than the previous year’s costs.

In California, eggs saw costs

from $10.00 per dozen to almost $14.00 per dozen. The average expense for a dozen eggs in Los Angeles in January was $13.49.

In San Bernardino, a dozen eggs can be found at the Ralphs on University Parkway for $8.99. In Loma Linda, a dozen eggs can be found at Clark’s for $10.99.

As February comes to its

CSUSB. Each has shared their thoughts and advice for keeping students, staff, and other personnel on campus, and their small animals, safe living in such proximity to these wild creatures.

I first spoke with Martosono who shared his account of coyotes often roaming around his home.

“Coyotes are beautiful creatures when you have no worries of small animals to protect,” he claimed.

Martosono learned from firsthand experience the consequences of living so close to wild animals like coyotes when you are a pet owner of small animals.

“I have 2 French bulldogs and a cat who loves to roam around outside…unfortunately, I regret letting my cat be outdoors due to the fact she never came home one day,” said Martosono. This incident is a reality of living in areas where coyotes co-habitats with humans and domesticated animals. Coyotes have a reputation for snatching up smaller animals to feed their young.

Continued on page 10

Coyote sightings on the rise Eggs surge in prices and profits

USDA did not have the correct source for such dramatic price increases in the egg market.

Farm Action, an advocacy group that claims they are “dedicated to building a food and agriculture system that works for everyone, not just a handful of powerful corporations,” wrote to Federal Trade Commission chair Lina Khan requesting that the FTC look into what they claimed to be price gouging.

“The real culprit behind this 138 percent hike in the price of a carton of eggs appears to be a collusive scheme among industry leaders to turn inflationary conditions and an avian flu outbreak into an opportunity to extract egregious profits reaching as high as 40 percent,” claimed Farm Action in their letter.

final weeks, a dozen eggs are slowly creeping back to average costs of around $5.99-$6.99 per dozen.

While the crisis seems to have been averted for many American households, there is still a problem at hand for organizations such as Farm Action which claim that the

Farm Action continued its claims by pointing to Cal-Maine Foods, and its long history of conspiracies to control prices and inflate them with the help of other top egg producers. Such a claim was supported by a jury that discovered such a conspiracy in 2018, according to Farm Action.

Continued on Page 10

An egg. Photo by Alyse Kiara Deatherage.

CSUSB’s Wild Song Statue. Photo by CSUSB ASI.

CSUSB student opens local nonprofit

By Ahily Pichardo Staff Writer

The Key Nonprofit is a nonprofit organization that offers resources to those in need, it was founded in October of 2022, by Maite Valenzuela, a senior here at California State University, San Bernardino.

open up a business that would allow me to dedicate more time to them and also be able to help families in need because I was once in that position…It feels good to know that I have the opportunity to offer a helping hand to someone who is also in need,” said Valenzuela.

When asked how she

believes it stands for in helping others.

“Our mission is to engage with local partners and provide “the key” resources to reduce poverty, improve the economy, and build solid communities for present and future generations,” said Valenzuela.

The Key Nonprofit holds weekly food banks every Friday from 3 to 5 p.m. for anyone who needs groceries.

“At The Key Nonprofit, we’re passionate about mental health. This passion is deeply rooted in our belief that mental health is just as important as physical health,” said Valenzuela.

Valenzuela also shared her thoughts on being a mental health resource to others.

Currently The Key Nonprofit only has one Resource Center located at 13641 Central Ave Unit N in Chino, CA.

With much success, Valenzuela has been able to help hundreds of people in our community. The shelter is located in Chino, California, but has reached out to many surrounding cities.

Valenzuela has shared her experience and some of the difficulties of opening up this nonprofit while being a full-time student.

“Honestly, what motivated me the most to start this nonprofit was my three kids. I am a single mom and needed to

managed to not only be a fulltime student, single parent, and run a full-time business all in one, she had something special to share.

“I wouldn’t be able to be where I am today without my mom and grandma, they are two strong women who not only I look up to but my kids as well. They’ve given us nothing but love and support,” said Valenzuela.

Valenzuela uses the “key” in her organization symbolically for what she

This provides a great opportunity for many members of our community who may find themselves struggling right now. These are hard times for many and it’s important for people who don’t have enough food, or for those who don’t qualify to receive help from the government, to have other options like these that allow them to also receive all the help they deserve.

Aside from food alone, The Key Nonprofit also offers much more.

They take mental health very seriously and offer help and resources to those who need someone to talk to. This is also another important resource for college students who are struggling in any way.

The Key Nonprofit prioritizes the community and does anything to make sure people have access to all resources available to them.

“Reach out if you or your loved ones need help. The world is in desperate need of helping those who struggle daily and struggle to ask for help. If you are one of them, The Key has its doors open so you can receive the proper help,” said Valenzuela.

Valenzuela is aware that they are still fairly new but would love nothing more than to expand to more locations across the area once grants start coming through. Anyone can go and have the opportunity to receive help, you don’t have to necessarily live only in San Bernardino County. All they recommend is to have a state-issued ID with you, to be able to help best define the closest resources nearest to you.

Additional Support for LGBTQIA+ Comes to San Bernardino

By Caitlyn Kautzman Staff Writer

Support for the LGBTQIA+ community has been growing steadily with increased

visibility and acceptance from society. Despite this increased community visibility, the amount of support has been relatively limited for San Bernardino County, which is the largest county in the country. This

prompted the opening of a new supportive housing shelter in the heart of the city of San Bernardino designed especially for those who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. This shelter was made

The LGBTQIA+ shelter photographed above is proud to be the first of its kind in San Bernardino County, presenting its pride flag for all to see.

possible by the non-profit organization Family Assistance Program which has been providing victim services such as advocacy and shelter to those in need in San Bernardino County since 1985.

This new shelter is called Welcome Home and is specifically designed for transitional-age youth (TAY), who are homeless or are at risk for homelessness, and who are a part of the LGBTQIA+ community. This 90-day housing first program allows individuals to receive housing free of rent while receiving in-house and outsourced support from advocates as well as weekly case management from an on-site case manager.

The case manager of Welcome Home is the person who works one-on-one with the clients to set goals and helps assess needs on a client-to-client basis. CSUSB alumni, Oscar Lobos is the case manager of Welcome Home and felt “called to this line of work” four years prior when he began his

advocacy work at a youth shelter.

“I was attracted to helping people. I found that this was my niche. This is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life,” said Lobos.

Lobos shared that helping in shelters was particularly important to his sense of purpose. He believed Welcome Home gave him a sense of necessity for helping others.

“I found purpose in it. And then when it was presented with LGBT, I just felt this sense of necessity,” said Lobos.

Lobos has always dreamed of opening his own LGBT shelter, so when this opportunity presented itself, he felt as though he was made for the job.

When asked about support for the LGBTQIA+ community that existed prior to the opening of Welcome Home, Lobos claimed there wasn’t much support in sight.

“Support for the community has been far and few,” said Lobos.

Continued on Page 11

Photo by Caitlyn Kautzman.

The Key Nonprofit Logo. Provided by Maite Valenzuela.

Food bank items from The Key Nonprofit, a Nonprofit Organisation, based in Chino, CA.

Paving a path to U.S. citizenship

By Warren Flowers Staff Writer

Longtime United States

Citizen Lincoln Alexander detailed the trip he took across multiple borders, including bus rides and having to run across a field, and on a highway, to make it into the U.S.

The trials and tribulations Lincoln dealt with on his journey here are storybook-like, but he used them as motivation to fuel him to become the successful man he is today. Many people would not be able to endure all he did to make it here today.

Alexander first decided to start this journey many years decades ago, in 1976.

“It was in 1976, in Belize a lot of people were coming back from the United States talking about how great it was. I wanted to go to see, and try to make a better life for myself, we heard there were a lot more opportunities there in the United States,” said Alexander.

Alexander shared that he did not make the trip alone. and only one of his fellow travelers made it with him.

“In total there were seven of

us, we each paid $1,000 each to be escorted here (United States), of the seven of us only two of us made it (me and Albert) the others had to come another day,” said Alexander.

Alexander described the journey as a difficult one and attributed the difficulty to why others in the group did not make it.

“The terrain we had to walk through was too difficult for an elderly woman we had with us; she couldn’t take it. We had to carry her on Albert’s back, literally on his back because she could not take the extreme terrain anymore, so we turned around and took her back,” said Alexander.

Alexander also shared explicit details about the physical journey he had to take to get to the U.S. before entering.

“It started off on Esperanza Belize, which is a small village in Belize in the sand creek district… once we got off the last bus, we had to walk across a rough terrain field for about 45 minutes,” said Alexander.

Alexander described his experience with the U.S. border patrol.

“As you walk across the field there is a U.S. border patrol taking place, they have a light then continuously shines the area to see if people are coming across. Every time the light hit, we must duck to avoid being seen by the light,” said Alexander.

After ending the journey by running across a highway, Alexander said their final destination was reached by car. Along the journey, Alexander was guided by what he termed a “mule.” He explained how this person helped them on their journey.

“We had what they call a “mule” who pretty much knows the way and helps guide you. He came with us every step of the way, he met us in Belize, rode all buses with us, and even took the trip across the field with us as well, the mule is there every step of the way, we all paid $1,000

each for this service he made a total of $7,000 on this mission,” said Alexander.

After accompanying them on their journey, the mule then took them to the car that was previously placed by the mule and then drove them to the final destination, according to Alexander.

Alexander was supported in his journey by individuals he already knew living in California.

“I had a friend that lived in Los Angeles, so I had the “mule” take me there, I stayed there for a few weeks, I then got connected with my uncle I stayed with him for a few years, until I got ready to get out on my own,” said Alexander.

To gain his citizenship at the time, Alexander needed to fly back to his home country and complete the U.S. citizenship test.

“In 2005, it was a bit more difficult than it is now, you had to travel back to your country of origin then come back in, luckily

in Belize we were considered a British colony, So I was able to go to Canada instead of back to Belize,” said Alexander.

Finally, Alexander shared his final thoughts about the experience.

“If I could change anything at all, I would like to go about just doing everything the right way, like most of my family that came after me. I am glad I am here and made it but going about it the total legal way is something I would have changed,” said Alexander.

Alexander has an amazing story of triumph as the man he is today. He considers himself a successful, thriving U.S. citizen today. Many people would turn back on the same journey as Alexander, but he found something inside himself that encouraged him to make it to the U.S.

Alexander literally hoped, leaped, and even ducked to be here in the U.S.

A conversation about the Real Estate industry

By Alyssa Panduro Staff Writer

The real estate agency is an ever growing and changing market, according to Jerry Stapp, a licensed real estate professional since 2004 and a broker since 2013 in California. His experiences include being a certification of forms trainer, selling new homes, listing distressed properties, and working on the lending side of the business, which have helped him see the changes that are occurring in the real estate industry and some of the ways the market has influenced such changes.

Stapp has remained vigilant in this industry and also noted the way large nation and world

events, such as the 2008 stock market crash and the Covid-19 pandemic have affected the market for home sales and the real estate industry as a whole.

Stapp stated that he believes the most difficult time for real estate agents was during the stock market crash in 2008, though his own experience was different from those of his constituents.

“Personally, I did well in this era because I sold REO properties which are bankowned properties taken from people that can no longer pay for their mortgages. Many other agents never had the opportunity, causing a struggle to find business,” said Stapp.

Stapp stated that the market had remained relatively balanced

after it recovered, before the Covid-19 pandemic.

“From 2015 to 2019 we had a healthy market. There’s always going to be more leverage between the buyers versus the sellers at any time, but in those years there was a balanced market,” said Stapp.

Stapp stated the Covid-19 pandemic influenced that balance negatively in the past few years.

“Since Covid hit, it’s been unbalanced, and now that we’re coming out of that Covid time and rates are peaking fast we’re unbalanced again,” said Stapp.

The U.S.-Mexico border. Photo credit to University of California San Diego

Real estate agent and broker Jerry Stapp in the middle of a client call.

Photo by Alyssa Panduro.

Local internships provide valuable experiences for students

By Haylie Spargo Staff Writer

School districts such as Hesperia Unified School District and San Bernardino City Unified School District are promoting opportunities for local college students to participate in internships. Many California State University, San Bernardino, students take part in having an internship experience during their time at CSUSB and can put it on their resume for their future endeavors.

Justina McNeal is a senior at CSUSB and has attended CSUSB since the Fall semester of 2019. She will graduate this Spring in 2023. She is majoring in Communication Studies, Relational, and Organizational Communication and has been a part of the University Honors Program since her freshman year of college.

McNeal decided to intern during her last semester at CSUSB to kickstart her postcollege professional career. She is currently an intern with the Hesperia Unified School District.

“My internship is treated like a real life job,” said McNeal.

McNeal is currently interning at Sultana High School, her alma mater. She works 15 hours per week and her internship is unpaid.

“My main job through

Open mic at Back to the Grind

By Kolbie McQueen Staff Writer

In downtown Riverside, the cafe bar Back to the Grind hosts an open mic every Monday at 6:00 p.m. This event is free and has a multitude of great coffee drinks you can try.

this internship is to make announcements through social media to keep the high school updated on information that is happening within the time of the internship,” said McNeal.

Through her social media job, McNeal feels that she keeps Sultana High School and Hesperia Unified School District informed.

McNeal’s internship is

Back to the Grind is a cool, scenic coffee spot that has been open for more than 20 years. This hidden gem is known for its many events like chess night, paint night, science night, and so much more, but its most popular event is an open mic. On the contrary, attending and just enjoying the event is free.

Kim Ashley attended Back to the Grind’s open mic night. She is a 48-year-old woman from Compton, California, who works at a recycling business. She started poetry in her twenties and fell in love with it ever since.

“What inspired me to start poetry was my inner healing from my bad past,” said Ashley.

Ashley’s inspiration for her poetry came from the support of her mother.

“I grew up watching my mother struggle with four children. My mother had to work two jobs to keep all of us happy; her struggle made me want more for myself in the future and that really prompted me to find

connected to a communications studies course and allows her to gain credits for her four-unit class.

“I have been doing my internship since the beginning of the school year in 2022, but for my course, I have only been recording it since the start of January,” said McNeal. Her internship also provides her with an advisor in addition to

something I love doing,” said Ashley.

Ashley shared her first poem called “hair full of roses.” It was about her insecurities and inability to see success like how others would. According to Ashley, the hair symbolizes a bush, and the roses symbolize growth. The overall message was flowers bloom when they are ready and not when a person wants them to.

Ashley shared some of her biggest struggles with finding her true passion.

“My biggest struggle was finding my true self in my early twenties. I was stuck doing drugs for a short period of time,” said Ashley.

Ashley related this struggle to her poetry in a symbolic way through her hair.

“I wanted to follow a bad group of friends who weren’t doing anything but keeping me down. One day I let go of them, went to rehab, went to therapy, and never looked back,” said

her advisor through the CSUSB course that she reports to. McNeal’s course is virtual, meaning she does not have to have a physical presence on campus. Yet, she stated that she is still very busy as she juggles attending her internship as well as being a full-time student at CSUSB.

“I visit my site three times a week but I also work remotely

Ashley.

Hearing her say this while in my twenties gave me so much inspiration for my future. It made me feel like we, as a younger generation, forget we have so much time to turn our lives around to still do what makes us happy. Even if you cannot find what makes you happy right now, you will eventually with time.

Ashley also shared some of her favorite things about writing poetry.

“There are no limitations to poetry, I can be my full self however I want to be in my writings,” said Ashley.

Ashley also shared that talking about a personal topic made her nervous but excited and proud of the work she has done as a poet.

Meeting Ashley made me happy to go to this open mic. A coffee bar can be a welcoming place that opens up opportunities to meet new people.

Overall I loved the event, the music performances and

for the social media aspect of my internship,” said McNeal. College courses help prepare students for careers and internships help students to gain the experience needed.

McNeal stated that college courses at CSUSB have helped her tremendously as she has “learned how to communicate with different personnel.” She has gained valuable knowledge to carry with her into her internship process.

“The way that I talk with the staff is different from the way that I talk with the students and I have to be ready to code switch at any time,” said McNeal.

This is a very important aspect of gaining professional experience. This will help prepare her for her postinternship job.

Although college is typically a stressful time for many students, internships can help solidify if that is a specific career path made for you.

“I can definitely see myself working at a school district, specifically the one that I’m already in within the future,” said McNeal. She believes her internship could be a lifelong journey.

McNeal’s advice to future interns is to “have fun with it and make connections!”

Continued on page 11

spoken words were great. I also enjoyed interviewing the wonderful Kim Ashley I met that night. Her story was truly inspirational, and it touched base with me and how I should never give up on myself.

While parting ways, she said she was thinking about releasing a poetry book of all the poetry she ever read. She didn’t know what she would name it, but it was her next biggest goal. Until then, she said she will be at the open mic for anyone interested in her poems.

Without a doubt, I encourage people to go to this bar to meet strangers, enjoy the atmosphere and be a part of the live music. You never know what you will learn by simply being in the moment.

If you are a contestant who wants to sing a few songs or even say some poetry, there is a 4$ admission, but all are welcome according to Back at the Grind staff.

Justina proudly represents her Coyote Pride during her internship at Hesperia USD.

Photo by Justina McNeal.

School districts across the Inland Empire and High Desert have created opportunities for college students to intern in various departments at various school sites to gain valuable work experience in managerial positions.

CSU students head to the mountains to shoot a horror film

Big Bear, California, is usually a place for tourists to enjoy many activities such as Snowboarding/Skiing, exploring the village, enjoying water sports on the lake, Oktoberfest, or even camping during the seasons. To most, it’s exactly that, but to young filmmakers, it is an area of possibility regarding location.

A group of CSU students decided Big Bear was the perfect backdrop for a horror film. I found them through a listing online looking for funding for the film and asked if I could join the crew as a BTS photographer/videographer to which they agreed, and I was on my way.

Despite sounding like the beginning of a horror story considering the circumstance, I can assure you it was quite the opposite.

The cast and crew were all down to earth and welcoming people willing to hear out any creative ideas a person had about a scene or anything else.

By Alec Escarcega Staff Writer

To my surprise, they had created an environment that was positive and receptive which was new, especially factoring in other film sets I’ve been on in the past.

I quickly became familiar and rather chatty with most of the cast during my visit. One, in particular, was executive producer Larry Sayers. Sayers shared that nearly everyone in the cast was a student at USC currently.

“Yes most of us are either third or fourth years with the exception of I believe two people who are now in the grad program and then a couple of us having already graduated,” said Sayers.

The film is part of a program on campus, and according to Sayers, the specific program is not for everyone, but these students were dedicated to seeing it and the finished product for the film through.

“The program on campus isn’t for everyone and usually those who stick through it and continue on are usually the ones who agree to come to these shoots,” said Sayers. What I found most impressive throughout the entire weekend was the culture they had brought with them from campus. What I mean by this is; it was refreshing to see a young group of students all with one goal in mind. To make the best film they can create. There weren’t any excuses made to one another throughout the weekend, but instead, answers and options were offered when an idea wasn’t working.

Photo Credit: Alec Escarcega

By Denise Santana Copy Editor

California State University, San Bernardino, student and musician Andy Paisley wrote Year of the Rat, an album inspired by the insurrection that took place on January 6, 2020, at the U.S. Capitol.

Year of the Rat references the Chinese zodiac animal for 2020, the rat. In the album’s songs, Paisley highlighted 45th President Donald Trump, capitalism, and police brutality.

“The title is referencing the year 2020 in the Chinese Calendar. 2020 is the Year of the Rat,” said Paisley.

Paisley shared his belief that

CSUSB student composes album inspired by January insurrection

California State University, San Bernardino, student and musician Andy Paisley wrote and composed an album inspired by the January 6, 2020 insurrection. Paisley embarked on a two-year journey that led him to compose a rock album for those fighting for social justice.

the rat was symbolic for some of the individuals involved in the insurrection.

“I also found it a fitting description to describe the rats in congress/governments-many of whom advocated for the overthrow of government and reversal of election results on January six and were antimaskers riding the virus like a surfboard, while also getting rich off stocks, and many of whom are also rumored to be secret Russian puppets,” said Paisley.

During his writing process, Paisley used parts of former President Trump and his son, Donald Trump Jr.’s, speeches that encouraged rioters to storm the capitol building.

“In some songs, I used

snippets from the Trump and Trump Jr. speeches on the White House Ellipse to demonstrate how they advocated for violent rebellion and overthrow of the government by inciting their followers. I used it as evidence of the reasons why they are not true leaders and why it was imperative for us to seek non-violent words and expressions (in essence music) to seek change,” said Paisley.

Paisley focused some songs on the environmental impacts that stem from capitalism.

“I talk about how capitalism and the thirst for luxury, convenience, and wealth (and the hoarding of these resources) has led the world to a breaking point,” said Paisley.

The song “Diesel Eyes” references oil spills caused by desires to seek wealth and resources at the cost of others.

“I specifically reference the giant “fire in the ocean” that occurred a couple summers ago. Oil spills happen quite frequently and people are always in a rush to drill, without worrying about the potential impact,” said Paisley.

Paisley also included other incidents of environmental violence in the inspiration for his album.

“Looking back at the Dakota Access Pipeline which people so desperately wanted to build

(and which has since spilled), we can see how people don’t care. They only want convenience and money,” said Paisley.

Paisley related these issues to an environmental crisis that he believes is growing in the world today.

“Yet these things are leading us to our demise with the pending ecological disaster, climate weirding, etc. Our endless pursuit and accumulation is going to destroy us all. Further, capitalism demands that there is a disparity between the rich and the poor. This is not a sustainable model,” said Paisley.

Finding creativity in anime and animation

By Brianna Contreras Staff Writer

With the increasing popularity of anime, Susan J. Napier of Tuff’s University discusses the departure from the male-dominant “techie” field to a women-centered grassroots independent community.

Professor Napier shares her expertise in anime with 30 years of experience in the community. Her most noteworthy book is Miyazakiworld: A Life in Art.

Q: During the pandemic, why do you think people grew more of a connection to anime?

A: Anime is created to draw you in, to entice you, to get you intrigued by the characters, and to get you to follow them along. Which I think is perfect to watch during the pandemic because you want something that’s gonna keep you going

for the next couple of weeks. So, Fruit Baskets, Cowboy Depop, and Samurai Champloo have a definite narrative arc. [Especially] at a time where you have a lot of [extra] time. You don’t have school and you’re in a small room watching something on a small screen that you want to keep going. They’re very good at ways of entertaining yourself.

Q: How would you describe anime and its importance to people that don’t know much about it?

A: [Animation] it’s a flexible and creative medium. There’s so much you can do in animation and it’s so exciting because it doesn’t come from a camera looking at something outside. It’s coming from your ideas, your dreams, and your nightmares. So, the animator is creative and free in a way that no other medium can be. Painting is the closest

one, but animators can also make their art move. They really do have that creative world, that’s immersive. If you are interested in, a kind of alternative form of reality. These are some of the most heightened versions you can see because animation is like live-action, but it’s not. It creates its own special world, and if you enjoy that then you can be pulled in.

Q: How would you describe the anime community?

A: It’s nice. Gosh, I’ve been studying and a part of the anime community since the early 1980s. When I was first working on anime, it was seventy percent male and a whole lot of techies. Nowadays, it’s predominantly female. In my classes, I get a lot of people coming in from the School of Music of Fine Arts, where people are doing their own animation. A big change over the last 30 years, thanks to

Musician Andy Paisley. Photo by Andy Paisley.

Eggs surge in prices and profits cont.

Continued from page 4

Cal-Maine Foods is the largest egg producer in the United States, covering the sales of shelled eggs for “the southwestern, southeastern, mid-western and mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S.,” according to their website. They have more than 42 million egg-laying hens on their farms.

The company claims to be at the forefront of cultural sustainability in its company, and states its “mission is to be the most sustainable producer and reliable supplier of consistent, high-quality fresh shell eggs and egg products in the country.”

While Cal-Maine Foods has agreed with the USDA’s claim that the avian flu is the cause of the most recent price increases on eggs, Farm Action states that the avian flu and decrease

in available egg-laying hens are not a steep enough decrease in production to warrant such high prices for eggs.

Cal-Maine Foods has

increased quarterly sales by 110 percent, with their gross profits up more than 600 percent compared to past years, according to Reuters News.

Coyote sightings are on the rise at CSUSB cont.

Continued from page 4

“Having knowledge of these packs of animals is essential to keeping your smaller animals safe and secure in their homes, living in San Bernardino the last few years and hearing more of these stories of smaller animals going missing is truly heartbreaking because those small animals are a part of our families even more than our own siblings sometimes,” said Martosono.

Martosono believes there are necessary precautions to take when the sun goes down living so close to the mountains of San Bernardino that coyotes are known to roam around, including keeping animals inside homes after dark and in the night and early mornings.

Ficek, a junior here at CSUSB, has had experiences with coyotes during the times of her evening classes which occur close to the time of sunset.

“There have also been times I see them lurking around the parking lot, but I know they typically are skittish and do not bother humans,” said Ficek. Ficek does not fear these animals when she spots them, and instead is intrigued by them and seeks to see them at a closer distance.

“I find coyotes to be beautiful creatures, but they are simply to look at and not to be bothered… There have been times I am driving down campus by the

recreational center and see two or three coyotes sprinting across the road, and it is my natural instinct to pull over and see if they will approach me as I would for a stray dog,” said Ficek.

Ficek is aware of the safe distances that should be maintained with coyotes. Coyotes typically stay away from humans since they have not been domesticated, nor should anyone attempt to domesticate them.

“Make no mistake, coyotes will not bother you if you do not bother them, but their unfriendly reputation still makes them a threat although they are just another part of the atmosphere of the mountainside,” said Ficek.

Griffin lives in San Bernardino by the CSUSB campus. She shares a different view of coyotes than that Ficek.

“Since I was born and raised here in San Bernardino, I’ve seen coyotes my entire life, and have always thought they were the ugliest little creatures,” said Griffin.

Seeing the coyotes brought a new realization to Griffin about

why CSUSB chose its mascot of Cody the coyote.

“I know that they are a symbol of the community as I’ve always driven past CSUSB…I never understood why the university chose coyotes to be the mascot until I got a little older and started driving and saw coyotes EVERYWHERE,” said Griffin.

While coyotes have inspired CSUSB in its mottos, mascot, and more, they should be avoided on and around campus. If you see a coyote, avoid touching it or trying to get its attention. If needed, call campus safety to help when there is a situation.

Information on pet safety is highly available online and can be accessed through a general search for any concerned pet owner.

The coyotes in San Bernardino are a symbol of the beautiful crossover of rural and city landscapes that we have here close to CSUSB, so we want to continue to keep harmonious relations with them without intervening in their living spaces.

Coyote sighting by the soccer field on the east side of campus

No eggs for American households.

Photo by Alyse Kiara Deatherage.

President Morales shares thoughts on MSU active shooter cont.

Continued from page 3

California State University, San Bernardino, understands the grief and the difficulties the campus community at MSU is encountering.

Seven years ago, on December 2, 2015, all 14 San Bernardino County Department of Public Health employees who attended a training session and holiday gathering at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino were killed in a mass shooting.

CSUSB student Gabriela Lopez, 21, shared his fears that a mass shooting could occur on campus anytime, anywhere after hearing the news of MSU.

“Last semester while I was in the library, I remember police outside the John M. Pfau Library because of a shooting threat. They sent an email, but we didn’t receive any notification until the end of the day,” said Lopez. “Threats that we aren’t sure are real and what are because people say it just to say it, but there are

people with real intentions.”

Lopez shared that past experiences of shootings locally add to apprehension about a shoot occurring at CSUSB.

“There has been a past mass shooting in San Bernardino, anywhere we’re vulnerable,” said Lopez.

On February 14, CSUSB’s

Additional support for LGBTQIA+ comes to San Bernardino cont.

Continued from page 5

Since working at Welcome Home, Lobos has found that his awareness of LGBTQIA+ support has increased.

“My understanding of the support in San Bernardino County has actually become

“[Welcome Home is] the only LGBT housing in San Bernardino County,” said Lobos. This program means a lot to Lobos and he takes pride in being able to be such a big part of its existence. At Welcome Home, there is a sense of community, and belonging is

them to thrive and find that sense of community.”

This program and its resources are free to everyone, and inclusion in community activities is encouraged. The goal is to get individuals who come through the program the support necessary to work their way toward an independent life. Whether it is getting individuals the necessary documentation for independent living, such as state ID cards, social security cards, and birth certificates, or helping them build a resume that will secure them a steady job and income, those at Welcome Home are there to help in any way they can.

appointed President, Tomás D. Morales, shared his concerns about senseless violence in the campus community.

“My condolences have

become a part of my daily thoughts as the unrelenting gun violence and death and injury toll builds across our nation,” said President Morales. “Picking up a weapon to act out one’s anger, fear, pain, and rage is decimating communities and leaving deep, deep scars.”

President Morales paid tribute to the MSU victims in his message and highlighted individuals’ ability to seek support nationwide.

“We know, firsthand, here in San Bernardino, what such shootings mean. And each fresh shooting re-traumatizes all those who have undergone their own horrific shooting experiences,” said President Morales. “For the victims of Michigan State, Monterey Park, Half Moon Bay, and the other mass shootings which have become monstrously routine, let us extend our compassion and our care.”

Local internships provide valuable experiences for students cont.

Continued from page 7

Other local school districts, such as San Bernardino City Unified School District, have paid college intern positions. Within SBCUSD there is an array of departments or school sites where interns work at.

Nathan Banuelos, a CSUSB graduating senior, is a current college student intern for the Human Resources department at SBCUSD. He has been interning since he was in high school and transferred over as a college intern once he enrolled at CSUSB. He will be graduating from CSUSB with a concentration in Human Resource Management.

could potentially look like.”

I, myself, Haylie Spargo, have been a college student intern for SBCUSD for four years. I have learned very valuable skills as I am a graduating senior getting ready to embark on my future career. Through my paid internship, I have been able to balance work life, school life, and personal life.

School districts across the Inland Empire periodically promote available positions and this can be seen through social media, their district website, or by going into their offices. The search process may be tough, but it may also be worth it.

[vaster]. I’m learning that there are more organizations that are LGBT-friendly. They are just kind of hidden and hard to locate,” said Lobos.

Lobos went on to talk about the importance of the shelter’s existence.

something that often is lacking for those in the community.

Lobos summed up the way that Welcome Home can help the community by saying that it allows for a “safe space” and “provides a well of resources for our LGBT community allowing

This program began its operations just at the end of last year, in December of 2022, and plans to continue operations for many years in advance. While there might not be as many resources available as there should be for the LGBTQIA+ community, Welcome Home and its case manager Oscar Lobos, are making strides in adding to that support for the community.

Banuelos stated that he “believes this internship definitely allowed [him] in real time to see many of the different management styles.”

Banuelos stated that “internships help develop major confidence and basic skills to enter your desired field with the proper knowledge and expectations of what your future

The CSUSB Career Center webpage states that there are several benefits of an internship including “skills employers are seeking and growing as a professional.” There is advice on this page for CSUSB Coyotes who want to learn more.

Whether paid or unpaid, internships can help pave a successful path to a lifelong career.

Student protester holding a sign asking “How do we feel safe after this?” during a protest for stricter gun laws at the Michigan State Capital. Photo credited to Nick King/Lansing State Journal.

Photo by SBCUSD Facilities

Student-athlete from Mexico discusses her volleyball career

By Marlee Nunley - Staff Writer

Q: What made you want to play volleyball?

A: My dad was a wellknown volleyball player in La Paz and throughout Mexico. He even got the chance to try out for the national volleyball team. After my dad completed his years of playing volleyball, he became a coach. The fact that my dad played volleyball played a role in influencing me to have an interest in this sport. When I was ten, my best friend invited me to practice with her. I did not enjoy playing at first, but after days of

practicing and working on things and progressing, I fell in love with the sport and have played it ever since.

Q: Why did you choose to come to play division II volleyball at the California State University of San Bernardino?

A: I was not looking for this program. Before coming to CSUSB, I had no expectations of what was to come because one of my teammates in Mexico was the one that wanted to be a part of this program. In the

Seattle soccer legend goes pro

By Rigoberto Aguilar Staff Reporter

Following an impressive collegiate career, soccer star Omar Grey has taken his game to the professional level, signing a one-year deal with the MLS team Houston Dynamo. He’s hoping to return to the Jamaica National Team very soon.

Grey began his collegiate career at the University of New Mexico, where he was an extraordinary striker his freshman year. He later transferred to California State University, Northridge, and became a key player for the matadors for two years. He had one goal and one assist in addition to his 30 games as a starting midfielder or center-back.

During his last season, Grey decided to return home to play for the University of Washington. The Huskies were ranked #1

in the nation, where they won the pac-12 and returned to the NCAA tournament. After a great season at UW, Grey decided it was time to prepare for his transition to the professional level.

In an engaging conversation with Grey, he spoke highly of his journey through college soccer and frequently mentioned God. As a man of faith, he directs his success to God, claiming no glory for himself.

Aguilar: What or who would you credit your success to?

Grey: How can I fail, all my steps are ordained by God.

We briefly touched on the topic of how the University of Washington prepared him for the professional level.

“The standard at UW is so high that you have no choice but to work hard to be great or someone is there to replace you,”

end, I received an opportunity to come and play here, and I took it. I have always wanted to live in California, and when I visited the school, met the team, and practiced with them, I loved it. The school was nice, the girls were talented and challenged me when we were playing, and the coaches were critiquing me and helping me to improve, and I enjoyed that. Everything felt right when I came to this campus and was introduced to the program. I knew I wanted to come here.

Q: How is volleyball here, compared to La Paz, Mexico? Any differences?

A: Competition-wise, in Mexico, we do not have a defensive specialist. We only have one libero who goes back row for our middles, and everyone else defends in a game for themselves. Also, a service ace that is not touched the other team and lands in is two points compared to one point here.

Q: Did you face any language or cultural barriers while at CSUSB?

A: Yes, there was a language barrier and a cultural

said Grey. He also spoke positively about the coaches and staff.

“Coach Jamie Clark has coached several professional players. Simply listening to him and being coachable made it easier for me to prepare for the professional ranks,” said Grey.

Grey analyzed how he wound up going to the Houston Dynamo and the process that it involved.

“I took the trial last minute, with only a two-day notice. I had to pack a bag and get ready to perform at my best for a contract. I went in confident because of the way the program at UW was designed – the professionalism came as second nature and the performance was expected from myself,” said Grey

barrier. Sometimes people do not understand that, and they can be ignorant and think they are better than you because you do not know the language well enough. When it came to school, I faced challenges with homework and tests that were time limited. Times when it took me four hours to complete an assignment, whereas if it were in my language, it would have taken me an hour to complete. I felt like there were times when people were closed-minded to get to know me because I am from another culture. I was challenged every single day in school, volleyball, and socializing.

Q: What did you like about playing volleyball in California, and what did you dislike?

A: I loved playing volleyball in California. It allowed me to learn and grow. The level of competitiveness is insane. The coaches are highly educated in volleyball, and the girls on my team and the players we competed against had a very high-level volleyball IQ. Playing in California allowed me to

A few days later, the Dynamo signed Grey to a one-year contract. The contract included moving Grey directly out of college to the second team, including options for training and playing with the starting team.

A typical day during the preseason for Grey is to “wake up around 7:15 to 7:30 a.m. to shower and pray. The reporting time at the facility is 8:20 a.m. Then, we train for about an hour and a half or two hours. Usually, either recovery or weight session follows after training, and then, you arrive home around 1 to 2 p.m.”

Grey said that the amount of free time is insane. He recently started learning to play the piano and became a “movie

become a better person and athlete. I do not have any regrets when it comes to that.

Q: What advice would you give to someone from a different country who wants to travel and play volleyball in the U.S.A.?

A: I advise taking it one day at a time. Be present and stay positive. Play because you love it and because volleyball is your passion. Even if you are playing for a program, a team, or whoever, do it because you enjoy it. You are representing your family, city, country, and culture. Knowing and understanding everything that you go through serves a purpose for you as a person and for your character. No matter what you go through, do not let it stop you from achieving your goals. If you have good intentions, good things will happen. Opportunities will come, you just have to embrace the challenges and enjoy the ride. The dream is not the process, but it is the people you get to know, the things you learn, the new experiences, and the person you are becoming.

connoisseur.”

Grey expressed interest in starting a Podcast about his daily life, conversations he’s interested in, and much more. His idea is to show people an alternate side of a professional athlete. His goals will be to “entertain and educate.”

Grey is humble yet motivated to break into the first team in Houston. He hopes to reach the Jamaican National team level he once represented as a young boy.

He also hopes to give back to the community that raised him in South Seattle. He hopes that he is a role model and someone to look up to from the area.

Omar Grey, middle, representing the University of Washington on the field.

Photo by UW Athletics

Photos by CSUSB Athletics