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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

All content by Antonio Pequeño IV
Sting triggers investigation of CSUSM employee

Sting triggers investigation of CSUSM employee

Antonio Pequeño IV, Editor-in-Chief October 23, 2019

An anonymous group by the name of Creep Catchers Unit (CC Unit) has spurred an investigation of a CSUSM employee who allegedly engaged in inappropriate contact with someone posing as a minor. In an...

President Neufeldt answers questions from the CSUSM community.

CSUSM President addresses concerns in open forum

Antonio Pequeno IV, Editor-in-Chief October 10, 2019

Students, faculty and staff gathered for an open forum with President Ellen Neufeldt to discuss CSUSM’s past and future. The forum, held on Oct. 8, began with Neufeldt saying, “One of the things...

Joaquin Phoenix stars as Arthur Fleck in Todd Phillips' 'Joker'

‘Joker’ delivers sobering and polished cinematic experience

Antonio Pequeño IV, Editor-in-Chief October 9, 2019

With respect to the divisive dialogue surrounding the release of Todd Phillips’ "Joker," let’s make something abundantly clear: When art discards its true vision and message so that it may comfort...

Estefania Fraticelli (left) and Lindsey Cain (right) lead protestors in a solidarity march on Sept. 24.

Hundreds protest in support of Global Climate Strike

Antonio Pequeño IV, Editor-in-Chief September 25, 2019

Waves of students and activists marched in solidarity with the Global Climate Strike, a movement that has seen immense mobilization and support since its start on Sept. 20. The Global Climate Strike...

Student coalition accuses UPD of malpractice

Antonio Pequeño IV, Assistant Managing May 8, 2019

Five CSUSM organizations combined to form the Students for Justice Coalition (SFJC) in response to a Feb. 22 incident that involved an alleged misuse of force by UPD on a student.   According...

The surf team is just one of the many sports clubs available to students.

CSUSM Surf claims No. 1 spot after crucial win

Antonio Pequeño IV, Assistant Managing Editor February 8, 2019

CSUSM Surf is on the verge of winning a potential conference championship as they head into the fifth and final stop of their regular season.   The club is currently ranked No. 1 in the Southwest...

In the Gender Equity Center students talk about the experience of being pregnant in college on Oct. 25.

Attorney shares information on pregnant student accommodations

Antonio Pequeño IV, News Editor November 7, 2018

The Gender Equity Center hosted a discussion about the nuances of pregnancy and lactation rights given to college students under Title IX.   Jessica Lee, a staff attorney at the Center for...

The display at the candlelight vigil commemorates the victims of recent shootings.

Candlelight vigil honors victims of violence

Antonio Pequeño IV, News Editor November 7, 2018

Students and club presidents gathered in the Forum Plaza for a candlelight vigil held in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the Tree of Life Synagogue and Kentucky Kroger shootings.   The...

ACE forum highlights the importance of women in leadership roles

Antonio Pequeño IV, News Editor October 26, 2018

Speakers at this year’s ACE Women Leadership Forum urged listeners to discuss the significance of women leaders in today’s educational and sociopolitical systems.   The forum was hosted...

 On Oct. 4 in the Cross Cultural Center, Dr. Susie Lan Cassel, professor of Literature and Writing, facilitates a conversation about working with men and the #Metoo movement.

Professor shares perception and insight on sexual misconduct

Antonio Pequeño IV, News Editor October 12, 2018

Dr. Susie Lan Cassel has been a victim of stalking and sexual violence. Her warning to others: Don’t wait to take action. At an installment of “Tukwut Talks: Conversations with Faculty” hosted...

Annual Security Report shows net decrease in crime

Antonio Pequeño IV, News Editor September 27, 2018

A national trade association for safety and security ranked CSUSM as the safest college campus in California - a rating that is backed by the university’s annual security report earlier this month.   CSUSM...

Former white supremacist shares story of reformation

Former white supremacist shares story of reformation

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor April 12, 2018

Inadvertently neglected by his hard-working parents and bullied on grounds of prejudice, Christian Picciolini was a child in search of identity, community and purpose. His search came to an end at age...

The 18th Annual San Diego Film Festival took place from Nov. 9-18

San Diego Asian Film Festival presents a profusion of films in its 18th year

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor November 27, 2017

A showcase of more than 150 films from 20 countries in 30 different languages, the Pacific Arts Movement hosted the 18th Annual San Diego Asian Film Festival from Nov. 9 to Nov. 18 across six venues. On...

Dr. Antonio De La Garza, Assistant Professor, Communication gives academic advice to prospective PHD students during a “Tukwut Talk” at the Cross-Cultural Center on Tuesday, November 14.

A Field Guide to the Path of Red and Black Ink

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor November 27, 2017

The experiences of undocumented immigrants and Dreamers propelled CSUSM’s Assistant Professor of Communications, Dr. Antonio De La Garza to pursue communication and ethnic study based disciplines in...

Thor:Ragnarok runs in theaters now.

Thor: Ragnarok is a thunderous riot

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor November 13, 2017

In his third film installment, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) finds himself imprisoned on the scrap ridden planet of Sakaar after a clash with the almighty goddess of death, Hela (Cate Blanchett). Captured and...

An organizer speaks to a crowd during one of San Diego’s inauguration day protests.

[Photo] How to foster a politically tolerant community

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor October 31, 2017

An organizer speaks to a crowd during one of San Diego’s inauguration day protests.

Latin@ Center hosts first Rappers Corner

Antonio Pequeño IV, Arts & Entertainment Editor October 28, 2017

“I just remember always being into rap music,” said Kosi Bunguy, a member of the Palomar College based rap group, WavPhilez. Located in USU 3300, CSUSM’s Latin@ Center hosted their first ever...

Former members of the Black Panther Party discuss their experience of the civil rights movement.

Black Student Center hosts former Black Panthers in discussion panel

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor October 19, 2017

This is a repost from our Edition 2 print. New information was added to this article.    A time of extreme polarization and heated race relations, the 1960’s were a turbulent time for the...

‘Blade Runner 2049’ boasts exceptional film experience and powerful direction

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor October 17, 2017

35 years ago, director Ridley Scott introduced the world to Blade Runner, a science fiction neo-noir that explored the concept of what it means to be human in groundbreaking fashion. Fast forward to 2017...

Clockwise from upper left: Chester Bennington of Linkin Park, Kimbra, King Krule, and Ibeyi.

Audio Scout

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor October 12, 2017

Linkin Park Linkin Park will be hosting a tribute concert for their late lead singer, Chester Bennington, on Oct. 27 at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Bennington’s suicide blindsided many back...

All eyes on Brockhampton

All eyes on Brockhampton

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor September 13, 2017

The eccentric hip-hop collective and All-American Boy Band Brockhampton is a unique project of the digital age. The group consists of around 12 members which is made up of vocalists/rappers, producers,...

Jane Elliott discusses the science of race

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor May 15, 2017

“From now until these four years are over, everyone of you in this room have to protect the rights of everyone else in this room, because you are all members of the family of man,” This was  Jane...

Guardians Vol. 2: A worthy sequel

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor May 10, 2017

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 begins with the ragtag team of guardians being hired by the alien race of the planet Sovereign to protect valuable batteries (the source of the planet’s power) against...

Album Review: Gorillaz returns with Humanz

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor May 10, 2017

After an extensive hiatus, Gorillaz are back with their fifth studio album, Humanz. At this point, it’s standard practice for the band to let a significant amount of time pass before releasing a new...

Audio Scout

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor May 10, 2017

Two weeks ago it was announced that there would be a small collection of unreleased Prince songs shared with the public on the one-year anniversary of his death. Following this news, the planned release...

DAMN. album review

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor May 10, 2017

“Is it wickedness? Is it weakness?” The chilling lines from the opening track of Kendrick Lamar’s fourth studio album, DAMN. As soon as I hear this I’m locked in and thinking to myself, can...

The Audio Scout

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor May 10, 2017

Mac DeMarco: The Canadian singer-songwriter, Mac DeMarco is set to release his third full-length album This Old Dog on Friday, May 5. The catch is, the album has been leaked online. In Demarco’s signature...

Marc E. Bassy rocks Festival 78

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor May 10, 2017

In a remarkable turnout of 600+ attendees, the first annual Festival 78 provided an evening of music, food and fun at the Mangrum Track & Field on April 22. An evening of music, food and fun, the...

Jimmy Wayne sheds light on the foster care system

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor April 18, 2017

“Why don’t I do something to raise awareness for 30,000 children aging out of foster care?” The question Jimmy Wayne asked himself after realizing he wanted to make a sacrifice for his foster “brothers...

Fernando Vega presents César’s Peaceful Revolution

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor April 18, 2017

César Chávez and the motto of the United Farm Workers, “Sí se puede” are held in high regard at CSUSM, a performance of Fernando Vega’s, César’s Peaceful Revolution naturally attracted many...

The Audio Scout: ________

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor April 18, 2017

Kendrick Lamar After dropping “The Heart Part 4” and “HUMBLE.” within a week of one another, Kendrick Lamar had the internet buzzing to say the least. Both tracks, especially “The Heart Part...

Dr. Brian Hu discusses film piracy

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor April 18, 2017

Brian Hu, the artistic director of Pacific Arts Movement, presenters of the San Diego Asian Film Festival. Hosted in Arts 240 on April 4, Hu was a guest speaker for professor Jonathan Berman and his...

Track and in Aztec field leads with striking times

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor March 31, 2017

Men and women’s Track and Field traveled to San Diego State University for the 39th Annual Aztec Invitational on March 24 and 25. The Cougars as a whole had a relatively solid outing alongside some standout...

Cougar Con brings pop culture to CSUSM

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor March 29, 2017

In celebration of pop and comic culture, Associated Students Inc. (ASI) and Tukwut Life held CSUSM’s first ever Cougar Con.  The event was held in the USU ballroom open to students and guests with approximately...

CSUSM alumni find jobs in marketing agency

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor March 29, 2017

CSUSM alumni Ria Arago and Toni Gomez are Communication majors who joined with Hadley Media, an experiential marketing agency based in San Marcos. Like many college graduates, the job search of the two...

CSUSM Autos holds second annual car show

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor March 29, 2017

Flashy wraps, modified engines and cars of various makes were present for CSUSM Autos’ second annual car show. Stated on their student organization web page, CSUSM Autos “represents car enthusiasts...

The Truth Behind Me unveils culture, art

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 24, 2017

The Truth Behind Me showcase featured stepping performances, fashion, poetry, food and a photo exhibit from local San Diegans and CSUSM students.   Organized by the Associated Student Inc....

Reclaiming Our Voices displays communal strength

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 24, 2017

Organizations Homie Universidad Popular and Pillars of the Community partnered up with Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan and the National Latino Research Center of CSUSM to present Reclaiming Our...

CSUSM hosts Defamation

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 24, 2017

  Sponsored by Tukwut Life, The Civility Campaign and the University Student Union Activities Board, the critically acclaimed courtroom drama Defamation, was presented in Arts 111 on Feb. 17.   The...

CSUSM students win film competition

CSUSM students win film competition

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 24, 2017

It all started as a simple class assignment for the six CSUSM students who created Mental Health Does Not Define Me, winner of the Art With Impact Short Film Competition.   A screening of the...

Students, vets, push cancer awareness

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 12, 2017

  Last year, a group of CSUSM students and military veterans received news that a fellow student veteran had been diagnosed with cancer.   Inspired to take action, the group rallied...

CSUSM hosts The Kinsey Collection

CSUSM hosts The Kinsey Collection

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 11, 2017

The Kinsey Collection, a highly esteemed exhibit of African-American art and history, presented by Bernard and Khalil Kinsey on Feb. 3 in the USU ballroom. Founders and owners of the collection, Bernard...

CSUSM hosts The Kinsey Collection

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 11, 2017

The Kinsey Collection, a highly esteemed exhibit of African-American art and history, presented by Bernard and Khalil Kinsey on Feb. 3 in the USU ballroom. Founders and owners of the collection, Bernard...

Project Positivity urges optimism

Project Positivity urges optimism

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 11, 2017

Words flew, thoughts were spoken aloud, and passion jumped off the page as CSUSM’s Literature & Writing Club and English Honors Society hosted Project Positivity on Jan. 26 in SBSB 4111. Established...

Run the Jewels performs at The Observatory North Park

Run the Jewels performs at The Observatory North Park

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Editor February 11, 2017

In the 14th stop of the Run the World Tour, Hip-Hop duo Run the Jewels (consisting of rapper and producer El-P and rapper Killer Mike) performed at the Observatory North Park on Jan. 30. Opening acts...

My first semester in college

Antonio Pequeño IV, Staff Writer December 14, 2016

Coming into my freshman year of college, I had tons of questions and preconceptions. I questioned what it would be like to live with people other than my kinfolk. I pondered the thought of what kind of...

Student debuts first art exhibit

Student debuts first art exhibit

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E December 9, 2016

CSUSM senior Darius “Dare” Talley hosted his first art show titled Inner Demons from Dec. 1 to Dec. 3 in Arts 342 with interactive art activities, music and raffle prizes. According to his website,...

Grossman gives insight on the Chavez legacy

Grossman gives insight on the Chavez legacy

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E December 9, 2016

On Wednesday, Nov. 30, former press secretary for Cesar Chavez, Marc Grossman, spoke to students and staff in the USU Ballroom. Grossman, the current Communications Director for the Chavez Foundation,...

Assemblywoman Gonzalez speaks to students

Antonio Pequeño IV, Staff Writer November 28, 2016

The Office of Diversity Educational Equity & Inclusion hosted the “Conversations that Matter Series”on Nov. 15, inviting professor Stephen Nichols and Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez of California’s...

Faculty panel analyzes election results, impact

Faculty panel analyzes election results, impact

Antonio Pequeño IV, Staff Writer November 28, 2016

Students, staff and faculty packed Markstein 210 on Nov. 10 to attend a post-election panel where faculty discussed the outcome of the presidential election. Moderator and political science professor...

The profound effect of media on the election

Antonio Pequeño IV, Staff Writer November 28, 2016

The 2016 presidential election stands alone in comparison to cycles of years passed. From the primaries to election night, this race had everything from mudslinging and flurries of memes to allegations...

Dr. Cornel West urges critical thinking, courage

Antonio Pequeño IV, A&E Staff Writer November 11, 2016

In perhaps one of the most highly anticipated events of the 2016-17 school year, Dr. Cornel West spoke in front of nearly 1,000 attendees on Friday, Nov. 4 in the USU ballroom. The event sold out in...

CSUSM presents Ask the Right Question with violinist Amanda Wirtz

CSUSM presents Ask the Right Question with violinist Amanda Wirtz

Antonio Pequeño IV, Staff Writer November 11, 2016

Award-winning veteran Amanda Wirtz, presented her unique story of trials, tribulations and triumph to CSUSM students on Nov. 3 in the USU ballroom. The event began with Wirtz giving a violin rendition...

Funny or Die & NextGen Climate presents Jokes for Votes at CSUSM

Antonio Pequeño IV, Staff Writer October 28, 2016

The Jokes for Votes tour made its seventh stop on Tuesday, Oct. 18 at CSUSM, with the goal to present “comedy and democracy together in a historic fashion” to CSUSM students. The event offered free...

Political innovator Tom Hom visits CSUSM

Political innovator Tom Hom visits CSUSM

Antonio Pequeño IV, Staff Writer October 24, 2016

The second event in the Conversations that Matter Series introduced political innovator, Tom Hom to students and staff of CSUSM, on Oct. 6 in the Kellogg Library. Hom was born in 1927 and in 1963 became...

Civility campaign tackles politics and identity

Civility campaign tackles politics and identity

Antonio Pequeño IV, Staff Writer October 21, 2016

The Cross-Cultural Center held it’s third Civility Dialogue on Oct. 4 and addressed the social intersection between politics and identity.   The Civility Campaign aims to “engage CSUSM students,...

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