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The problem with homelessness isn’t the unhoused
The Chaparral
This is part four of a series on homelessness in the Coachella Valley; the previous three parts can be found linked below. In February of this year, I personally witnessed an encampment sweep while on my way to class. I was able to experience firsthand the manner in which homeless people are othered and marginalized...
Examining homelessness: the Coachella Valley’s environment
The Chaparral
This is part three of a series on homelessness in the Coachella Valley. If you would like to read the other parts, the links will be provided below. The Coachella Valley has a particularly unique climate, owing in large part to its presence in the rain shadow of the mountain ranges on either side of...
The King’s next move: where will LeBron James play next season?
The Chaparral
LeBron James just completed his 23rd season in the NBA at age 41. James is expected to decline his $52.6 million player option and enter unrestricted free agency. With his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers ending, where will the King play in what many believe could be his final season? Lakers: running it back...
A guide to California’s June gubernatorial primary
The Chaparral
California voters will head to the polls on June 2 to choose their next governor, with in-person voting and vote-by-mail options available statewide. Here’s what voters need to know ahead of the primary. Ballots were mailed to registered voters starting May 4. Vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day to be counted....
Roadrunner Rodeo brings community and fun to COD campus
The Chaparral
Roadrunner Rodeo filled the Palm Desert campus with laughter and community on May 7. Clubs and organizations, including the COD Architecture Club, the Sexuality and Gender Alliance Club and the theater department, connected with students through activities such as branding boots and clothing, applying sparkly temporary tattoos and promoting the musical “Kiss
Students prepare for finals week at Study Jam
The Chaparral
College of the Desert hosted its recurring Study Jam on May 16 at the Hilb Building, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to help students study and prepare for finals week. The annual Study Jam was designed to help students feel relaxed and enjoy their studying by providing donuts, protein cups, therapy dogs, a barbecue,...
Why the Met Gala no longer feels like a fashion event
The Chaparral
Every year, millions of people tune in to see celebrities walk the red carpet in extravagant outfits. However, instead of discussions about fashion, artistry, or the event’s yearly theme, social media quickly becomes flooded with memes, “worst dressed” lists, and viral clips that are judgmental rather than admirable. The Met Gala, once known primarily as...
College of the Desert softball wraps up 2026 season
The Chaparral
The College of the Desert softball team wrapped up its 2026 season with a record of 11-17, overcoming challenges along the way. One of the team’s biggest accomplishments this season was its 9-8 home victory against Santa Ana College on Feb. 25, marking COD’s first home win against Santa Ana since 2014. Head coach Kelli...
Blockbuster “Michael” is a technical masterpiece with a fatal flaw
The Chaparral
The long-awaited biographical drama “Michael” attempts to capture the life and career of one of the biggest stars in history. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film recreates many of the defining moments of Michael Jackson’s career through elaborate musical sequences, polished cinematography and committed performances. While the film succeeds in reminding audie
Cleaning up the desert with Rotoract Club
The Chaparral
It’s the morning of April 4, 2026, and a miracle has taken place: I’ve willingly woken up at 5 a.m. on my day off. Normally, I would be taking advantage of a free schedule and sleeping in until eight or nine, but today, I’m meeting COD’s Rotaract Club at 7 a.m. sharp at the La...
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