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The independent student news site of San Marcos, California

The Cougar Chronicle

The independent student news site of San Marcos, California

The Cougar Chronicle

The independent student news site of San Marcos, California

The Cougar Chronicle

Features

Get into the spooky season with these jokes

Sasha Anand, Features Editor October 24, 2020

Q: Why did the vampire read the newspaper?  A: He heard it had great circulation. Q: How do vampires get around on Halloween? A: On blood vessels. Q: What’s it like to be kissed by a vampire? A: It’s a pain in the neck. Q: What’s it called when a vampire has trouble with his...

It is very important to stay safe this spooky season, while still having fun. Here are a few tips to have a fun, festive holiday.

Get ready for the spookiest, safest Halloween with these tips

Kat Parra, Staff Writer October 24, 2020

With Halloween around the corner, your instinct may be to pull out the witch hat and dancing shoes. Yet, with the pandemic, partying is not the smartest move right now.  It isn't just about protecting yourself but about declining the spread and protecting others. Here are other, safer ways to celebrate...

You can create festive pumpkins without carving them.

Pumpkin decoration ideas to try this season

Sasha Anand, Features Editor October 24, 2020

Halloween is fast approaching and you may be wondering what to do to celebrate since parties are probably not going to be happening as much this year. Carving pumpkins is a classic Halloween tradition that gives you something festive to do while practicing safe social distancing. But in case you do...

 COVID has impacted every aspect of daily life this year and Halloween is no exception, prompting some CSUSM students to celebrate differently than usual.

COVID-19 impacts students’ Halloween celebrations

Sasha Anand, Features Editor October 24, 2020

Halloween is a time for celebrating, but with the current pandemic, many won’t be celebrating in the ways that they are used to.  Many people do not feel comfortable inviting friends over, although it may be tempting at times.  Junior Sara Culp felt like having any kind of celebration is too...

F45 fitness instructor Cedrick Martinez said the gym has struggled during these difficult times, but that they are managing to regain business through careful cleaning and community support.

Local community supports small gym

Maria Jungers, Assistant Opinion Editor October 12, 2020

Since the beginning of this year, COVID-19 has affected many small and large businesses. Many people automatically assume restaurants are the only ones that are widely affected.  However, gyms have also been negatively impacted by the pandemic.  Larger fitness corporations like 24 Hour Fitness,...

Pumpkin spice lattes are a staple fall beverage but can get pricey really quickly. Here’s an easy recipe you can make from the comfort of your home.

Get your pumpkin spice fix with this cheaper alternative

Sasha Anand, Features Editor October 10, 2020

It’s that time of year again, the time when the leaves change and the pumpkins emerge.  With the leaves and the pumpkins come the seasonal drinks. The pumpkin spice latte is probably the most popular of these beverages. However, going to Starbucks to get one regularly can be pricey.  If you...

Jokes to brighten your day

Sasha Anand, Features Editor October 10, 2020

Today, my son asked “Can I have a bookmark?” and I burst into tears. 11 years old and he still doesn't know my name is Brian. If a child refuses to sleep during nap time, are they guilty of resisting a rest? I'm reading a book about anti-gravity. It's impossible to put down! A slice...

Decorate your home with this festive wreath. Not only is it pretty to look at, but making it also provides a nice distraction from schoolwork.

Get ready for autumn with this festive craft

Sasha Anand, Features Editor October 10, 2020

The fall season has arrived and even though the weather has not cooled down yet, you may want to get into the autumn spirit to boost your mood during these uncertain times or just to take a break from studying.  Here’s a simple craft that can get you ready for the new season, even if you’re not...

 If you’re looking for a good Mexican place, try Phatties, a vegan spin on the popular cuisine.

Small business offers vegan Mexican food, keeps community healthy and satisfied during pandemic

Kristie Castillo, Staff Writer September 28, 2020

This quarantine has given people the opportunity to pursue and achieve their health and lifestyle goals from the comfort of their home and with the plethora of new free time.  For some, this includes testing the waters of vegan eating and Phatties Mexican Restaurant is helping aspiring vegans do...

Take a quick break from academic stress with some dad jokes

Kristie Castillo, Staff Writer September 28, 2020

School can be stressful and more so when it’s online, so take a break with some corny but good dad jokes.   Q: Why don't eggs tell jokes?  A: They'd crack each other up.   Q: Did you hear the rumor about butter?  A: Well, I'm not going to spread it!   Q: How...

Vanessa Arboleda took over the Writing Center’s Instagram to answer student’s questions.

Writing Center tutor shares helpful advice

Sasha Anand, Features Editor September 28, 2020

CSUSM has a lot of resources for students and faculty to use to make the transition to virtual instruction easier.  The Writing Center hosted a Takeover Tuesday on their Instagram account led by one of their tutors, Vanessa Arboleda, on Sept. 22. Students were able to ask questions during the livestream.  At...

Getting a snack in during a break from classes or something sweet at the end of the day can be a great way to treat yourself.

Try these quick and easy recipes for a sweet treat

Sasha Anand, Features Editor September 28, 2020

This article was modified on 10/2/2020   With everything going on in the world right now, sometimes you just need a treat to keep you going. But you don’t always have time to go out and get something to eat. Here are a few easy recipes that you can make quickly between a meeting or a class.  Coffee...

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