Volume 72, Issue 25

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2024-2025 ASUCR Elections Voting Guide News

MATA ELANGOVAN News Editor

The time has come to fulfill our democratic duty of voting! From 8 a.m., on April 29, 2024 to May 3, 2024, at 3 p.m., at the University of California, Riverside (UCR), students will have the opportunity to vote for their favored candidates in the Associated Students of UCR (ASUCR) elections. For your convenience, here is a guide to go about voting for your representatives for the 2024 - 2025 school year.

How can people vote:

This year, voting will be entirely online. Ballots will be emailed to students at the start of election week, and they can vote for candidates from there. After they finish voting, students will receive a unique code, which they can bring to one of many polling sites to pick up an incentive. If any technical issues arise, such as not receiving a ballot or being unable to submit a ballot, students can go to one of the polling sites where someone from the elections team will help them with their issue. Electronic devices will also be available at polling sites if students are unable to vote by their own means.

Candidate information:

To find out more information about the candidates, students can access the 2024 - 2025 ASUCR Candidates page on the ASUCR website or click the drop-down icon next to each candidate’s name on the ballot.

Students will be able to vote for President, Vice President and Director positions, as well as senators from their own college. Students also have the ability to abstain from voting from any of the listed candidates, if they are not fully confident in that candidate’s ability to perform in that position. This also applies if a candidate is running unopposed.

Incentives:

Polling locations will offer various incentives each day. Tote-bags will be distributed at the Bell Tower on Tuesday at 3 p.m. and Wednesday at 11 a.m., t-shirts will be distributed at the Bell Tower on Tuesday at 11 a.m. and Wednesday at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., stickers and button pins and much more will be available at any polling site from elections committee members. For further information on the various incentives that are released, check out @asucr_elections on Instagram.

Voting Locations and Times:

MATA ELANGOVAN

Endorsements for ASUCR Elections 2024-2025

With the upcoming election season at the University of California, Riverside, it is pertinent to stay updated with potential representatives of next year’s student body. The purpose of newspaper endorsements is to help inform the public on candidates for various positions and help them come to better-informed decisions when the time to vote comes. Here are the endorsements for the 2024-2025 Associated Students of the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR) elections candidates that the Highlander Editorial Board believes are especially qualified.

President: Abby Choy

Current President Pro Tempore Abby Choy understands the importance of providing ASUCR with the structural support to effectively serve the student body and hold ASUCR accountable, with a unique focus on long-term viability. Choy is committed to ensuring that projects undertaken by ASUCR are continued by future elected officials and has a clear roadmap for doing so. As the most experienced member of the ASUCR Senate, Choy has a deep understanding of the administrative structure of student government and knows how to leverage that to achieve her goals of implementing structural change and continuing work on initiatives such as combating food insecurity. Choy has led by example during Senate meetings, providing thoughtful insight during them when tackling agenda items and effectively communicating progress on her various initiatives, such as working on the Food Recovery Program and assisting with the R’Garden referendum.

Executive Vice President: Ray Khan Ray Khan, current College of Humanities Arts and Social Sciences (CHASS) Senator, is resolved to make internal changes within ASUCR to increase transparency to ensure that the government accurately reflects the interests of the student body. Khan is determined to first increase communication within ASUCR, specifically between the Legislative and Executive, to hold those within the organization accountable, and understands the importance of collaborating with others. He has a proven track record within the Senate of following through with the commitments that he has made and being transparent on where he is in terms of progress for those initiatives, providing updates during Senate meetings and on social media.

Even more, through his initiatives this year, Khan has shown that he is proactive in reaching out to campus partners and developing relationships with the administration. Khan has demonstrated this through initiatives such as hosting an event promoting Breast Cancer Awareness and having conversations with officials like the Chancellor.

Vice President of Campus Internal Affairs: Anjana Narasimhan

Anjana Narasimhan, current Bourns College of Engineering (BCOE) Senator, has demonstrated an active commitment to the campus community, fostering connections with student clubs and organizations on campus, and promoting initiatives on student empowerment and campus safety. Her campaign is focused on important issues that align with the duties of the Vice President of Campus Internal Affairs, including academic affairs and basic needs. As Senator, Narasimhan has demonstrated a strong capability of tackling these issues; she has worked with campus partners and administration to develop initiatives, including the Global Fair and various legislations. Most importantly, through her student engagement and initiatives, Narasimhan has proven that she understands the diverse needs of a diverse campus and is eager to take the initiative and proactively build relationships with the student body she will be representing. Narasimhan is committed to creating an environment on campus where students feel seen, and their concerns are heard.

Vice President of External Affairs:

Vivian Herrera

Vivian Herrera, current Civic Engagement Director, has shown her dedication to amplifying student voices on campus and is willing to speak up for the issues that matter to students in the role of Vice President of External Affairs. She has demonstrated this in a supportive role by providing organizational support to various communities on campus during student action movements as well as speaking out during various protests regarding undocumented student rights, calling for the administration to take action. Herrera is passionate about serving the diverse needs of the student body, as seen from her encouraging students to register to vote and participate in local ballots through various social media and in-person initiatives that External undertakes throughout the year. Herrera

is determined to hold the administration accountable and make the bureaucratic education system better known to students by informing them about student charges like the Cohort system, which makes incoming freshmen pay more in tuition than the previous year.

Vice President of Finance: Cooper Kumar

Cooper Kumar, through his campaign and work as the current Director of Campus Partnerships in the External Branch, has proven his ability to support and engage with the student communities that he would be serving as the Vice President of Finance. Through his experience in working closely alongside student organizations in Costo Hall, Kumar comprehends how receiving funding is a complicated process and wants to streamline it and make it more accessible. He has clear and achievable goals, one being to create a more personal relationship between the finance committee and these clubs through active outreach and support tailored to each club’s needs. Kumar seeks to financially empower students beyond campus affairs and prepare them for the future through various workshops surrounding topics such as Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) preparation, tax filing and investing.

International Student Director: Michelle Wang

Michelle Wang has a unique understanding of issues pertinent to the international student body, with clear initiatives ranging from connecting students with campus organizations to foster a sense of community to finding employment opportunities while on a visa. Through her experience working with the International Affairs Department on campus, she has built connections with administration and outside agencies to support and provide programming tailored to the international population, such as creating more accessible career fairs for international students. Wang shows a deep interest in connecting with international students and hearing out their concerns.

From the Editorial Board: Behind the Endorsement Process

To maintain transparency on how we endorsed candidates, The Highlander is releasing the steps we took to ensure that the process was fair and unbiased. Prior to the beginning of the campaign season,

The Highlander reached out to ASUCR’s Election Committee and requested the contact information of every candidate as well as the positions that they were running for. An email was sent out at the start of campaign season to every candidate, offering them the opportunity to follow up with the paper to schedule an endorsement interview at their own discretion. These interviews act as a method of information for the Editorial Board to understand a candidate’s goals and the experience they have gained over the years. Using this information, as well as supplemental information from reports and meetings throughout the year, a profile was made for each candidate who had come for an interview. During an editorial meeting, the Editorial Board discussed each of the interviewed candidates at length in order to determine who we would want to endorse as a paper. In order to receive an endorsement, a candidate needed to receive approval from 80% of the Editorial Board.

Here are a list of candidates that reached out to the paper for endorsements:

- For the position of President, Abby Choy and Adam Ramirez were interviewed.

- For the position of Executive Vice President, Ray Khan and Naia Pizarro were interviewed.

- For the position of Vice President of Campus Internal Affairs, Leila Haidar and Anjana Narasimhan were interviewed.

- For the position of Vice President of External Affairs, Vivian Herrara was interviewed.

- For the position of Vice President of Finance, Cooper Kumar and Philson Ho were interviewed.

- For the position of Vice President of Marketing & Promotions, Ashley Estrella and Ian Tjan were interviewed.

- For the position of International Student Director, Michelle Wang was interviewed.

- For the position of First-Time College Student Director, Juan Campos was interviewed.

- For the position of SPP Senator, Sofia Jimenez was interviewed.

- For the position of CHASS Senator, Braydon Cabanilla and Sai Reddy were interviewed.

- For the position of CNAS Senator, Anthony Ching was interviewed.

- For the position of BCOE Senator, Uma Akundi was interviewed.

Continuing Presidential debates with three cabinets

CANDIDATES PRESENT PLATFORMS AND ESTABLISH GOALS IN THEIR CAMPAIGNS.

MATA ELANGOVAN News Editor

Returning for the second set of presidential debates, various candidates for the upcoming Associated Students of the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR) came together at HUB 269 to debate their platform. Featuring candidates running for Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (VPDEI), Vice President of Campus Internal Affairs (VPCIA) and Executive Vice President (EVP), the debate provided each candidate an opportunity to garner support through their platform.

Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Ahman Greene

“The main goal of my campaign is to continue and build off of all the progress that I’ve made as the current VPDEI.” Being the first person to hold this position, Ahman Greene, has been working on improving accessibility for various student groups on campus. Greene describes diversity as seeing people similar to you reflected in leadership positions on campus, equity as providing a proportionate amount of help needed on a case by case basis, and inclusion as providing “the ability for all students regardless of race, gender, creed, religion and sexual orientation to be allowed to participate in all student programs.” In order to continue motivating and retaining DEI staff members, Greene promised to remind them that while they are staff, they’re also family, and will work to build personal connections outside of meetings and duties with people on campus. Reflecting on his personal experiences on being marginalized and pushed away, Greene vows “I’m going to do everything in my power to make sure that no UCR student ever has to feel that way on our campus.”

Divya Singh

“Together we can build a community where every resource is at our fingertips and no opportunity is hidden from us.” Divya Singh emphasized the importance of knowing the various resources available on campus. Singh explained how DEI is different for every individual as experiences

are heavily dependent on who someone is as a person. She summarizes diversity as acknowledging and celebrating differences, equity as every student needing the support they need regardless of circumstance and inclusion as creating spaces where everyone feels welcome. Singh’s plans to support DEI staff members is by reminding them why they are doing what they do, by “rewarding ourselves by seeing what we want to see happen.” Singh reminds attendees that “my campaign is not what I can do as an individual, but what I can help unite. How I take all of our experiences and streamline that into something that every single student is affected by on campus.”

Vice President of Campus Internal Affairs

Anjana Narasimhan

“My mission is to champion and support students in every facet of their lives, their culture, their careers and their overall experience at UCR.” Delving into creating opportunities, raising student voices to administration and spearheading campus-wide events, Anjana Narasimhan, current Bourns College of Engineering (BCOE) Senator, shared how she plans on continuing to be a vocal advocate for students on campus. Narasimhan believes that the most prominent issue facing the undergraduate population is a general lack of awareness of what ASUCR can do, so she is determined to inform them of the abilities of ASUCR so that their issues can be heard and addressed. Over the past year, Narasimhan has been working on various initiatives like Global Fair, going to people in Costo Hall and in classes to hear out their concerns about things like registration and talking to students in BCOE on how they are going to manage their time. Narasimhan maintains, “we have to get the job done; we have to make sure that it’s not just words, it’s action, and that’s what I’ll get done as VPCIA.”

Nadia Aierken

“I aim to address the lack of communication between different departments on campus.” Nadia Aierken, current International Student Director,

is eager to bridge the divide between departments on campus operating as individual entities. The most prominent issue Aierken believes needs to be addressed is the “lack of suitable parking spaces,” as she believes that UCR has not met the standards needed to make parking convenient and not hinder academic pursuits. Followed up by the lack of affordable housing and food insecurity issues. In order to hear out student concerns and voices, Aierken promises to go around to Student Life, different clubs and organizations and Costo Hall, since “experiencing for myself, and as student leaders, is also a crucial part of understanding what the undergraduate population is going through.” Aierken resolved, “let’s work together to make our campus even more inclusive, innovative and impactful.”

Leila Haidar

“As an elected official and direct liaison between the undergraduate student body and administration, I make sure that admin knows and does something about the problems we face on a daily basis.” Putting out examples such as working on accessible parking and the bureaucratic work behind the process, Leila Haidar, current College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences (CNAS) senator, explains why she is competent for the position of VPCIA. Haidar explained that one of the biggest challenges right now is accessibility to resources, as there are many available, but students just do not know about them. Furthermore, there are committees representative of each of the resources on campus, but they do not have student reps from those departments, so, for example, she aims to bring in Academic Resource Center (ARC) tutors to the Academic Affairs Committee to expand the knowledge of the committee. Haidar concluded, “I’m going to work on changing things on a systemic level within ASUCR; I want our committees to actually do something.”

Executive Vice President

Naia Pizarro

“Accessibility and accommodations, so it’s making our space more inclusive

beyond public comment and office hours because that’s extremely limiting.” Naia Pizarro, current School of Public Policy (SPP) senator, touched on how she will make Senate meetings more accessible and inclusive. In order to effectively lead the Senate, Pizarro vows to streamline the processes and collaborations that senators undergo, as well as collaborate with students outside of the organization so that they know that “these positions are theirs too.” Pizarro justified her capability for the position by sharing her prior experience as director of Senate interns, where she helped direct intern projects, and as SPP senator, where she has worked to build stronger relationships with the college. Pizarro concluded that “promoting advocacy starts within the student body and remember, that at its core, that’s what we are, and really bringing those values to fruition.”

Ray Khan

“I commit to creating a campus where every student feels seen and supported. Together, we will make connections to prioritize your well-being and academic success.” Ray Khan, current College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHASS) senator, promised to build a more diverse and dynamic community. In order to maintain transparency within student government and effectively lead the Senate, Khan stated that he would require senators to submit monthly reports that will be accessible to the student body to ensure accountability. During his time at ASUCR, Khan shared that he has worked on various “impactful” initiatives, from hosting a Walk to Cure Breast Cancer Awareness Event to being vice chair of the Legislative Review Committee, and that his commitment to his work demonstrated his ability to be the next EVP. Rallying support for his campaign, Khan stated, “I implore you to exercise your right to vote and join me in ensuring our voices are heard loud and clear. Together, let’s strive for strength and unity.”

To watch the debate, check out our recording on YouTube or click our link in bio!

Automatic textbook billing proposal and potential withdrawal from UCSA

INTENSE DISCUSSION UNDERTAKEN BY SENATE REGARDING TWO AGENDA ITEMS.

MATA ELANGOVAN News Editor

On April 15, 2024, the Associated Students of the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR) discussed a tuition influencing automatic textbook billing proposal as well as potential actions the External Branch would take regarding the University of California Student Association (UCSA) as a result of the events of UCSA’s Hill Day and prior meetings.

After a friendly amendment to add finance meeting minutes #3 and March senator of the month to the agenda, it was unanimously approved in a vote of 10-0-0.

The first major item tackled in the meeting was the automatic textbook billing proposal. “First Day Complete,” was introduced by both the Associate Vice Chancellor of Auxiliary Services, Heidi M. Scribner, and Jeremy Roush, representative from Barnes and Nobles, provided a quick overview of the service during new business. Scribner let the Senate know that they were unaware

until three hours prior to the meeting that a resolution regarding the textbook billing had been proposed to the Senate and wanted to provide an update as to the work they’ve been doing since the last year. She summarized it as letting the proposal be implemented during a trial period to socialize with our campus to see if it is a good fit.

Roush went into greater detail about the proposal, letting the Senate know it would be a $200 charge to students quarterly, and would provide them with all the texts that they need for the quarter either digitally or physically, in which case they can pick up their materials at the bookstore on campus. This would include homework access platforms like TopHat and MatLab, as well as lab notebooks. He further emphasized that if students find out they are spending more money on the subscription rather than on individual texts, the material reservation page on the website would let them know

and they can always opt-out of the service.

Prior to the presentation, during public forum, three members of the California Public Interest Research Group (CALPIRG), including the chapter chair, had gone to the podium to speak out against the automatic textbook billing. They pointed out that while the billing may seem convenient in providing students with textbooks automatically, a lot of required texts for class can be found in free resources around campus and that students should not have to pay for something that they can get for free. Even more so that many students already struggle to make it through day to day from paying tuition and rent, and that this extra charge will only further their adversity.

The Senate brought up numerous concerns and questions in order to learn more about the details of the program, the most prominent one being why the service operated as an opt-out model, brought up by

President Pro Tempore (PPT) Abby Choy. Roush answered that “all the players in higher education are an opt-out model” and that their own savings are driven through quantity, similar to buying in bulk at Costco, and that by having it be opt-out rather than opt-in, makes the program more sustainable for them as well.

Vice President of Finance Brandon Huang had some more technical questions regarding the service, questioning if students will have the opportunity to download PDFs of their textbooks if they opt-in to the service. Roush explained that it is on a case-by-case basis and that it would be up to the individual publisher to control the length of access. Furthermore, all physical textbooks would have to be returned to the bookstore at the end of the quarter.

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OpiniOns

Diversity on the Riverside City Council calls attention to barriers that dictate politics

THE IMPORTANCE OF DEMOGRAPHIC REPRESENTATION IN GOVERNMENT IS LIMITED, BUT IT IS ESSENTIAL FOR DEVELOPING COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT.

The Highlander editorials reflect the majority view of the Highlander Editorial Board. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Associated Students of UCR or the University of California system.

The Riverside City Council has experienced several representational changes in the last few elections. Before 2019, the seven-person council was entirely made up of men, only one of whom was not white. After 2021, the council was made up of three Latinos and two members of the LGBTQ+ community. These changes were an important step in increasing representation in government and ensuring that leadership reflects underrepresented communities. Unfortunately, the new council, which ousted many of these new council members, does not reflect its constituency regarding personal traits and political views.

Since the 2019 and 2021 election cycles, the makeup of the Riverside City Council became far more accurately representative of the Riverside population regarding racial demographics. However, more concern has been expressed at the mismatch in political values on the council after the most recent election as compared to the city of Riverside than concern about diversity. Of registered voters in Riverside, 43.6% identify as Democrats and 28% as Republicans, while this new council leans more toward conservative political values. This is important as data suggests that many Americans have varying opinions on how important the representation of personal traits in political positions is. In fact, approximately 66% of U.S. adults agree that it is “extremely or very important” that candidates share political views compared

to demographic similarities. Clearly, while diversity should be a core objective of the city of Riverside, it cannot be a singular objective. The difference in constituency perspective and council values will likely be Riverside’s more contentious representational problem. Unfortunately, diversity is not enough to have a substantive and issuebased impact; it will take voter support and the mobilization of a dying local media.

Demographic representation has debatable implications and levels of importance. That was seen with the nomination of Justice Amy Coney Barrett, who many women’s rights advocacy groups opposed. Women in positions of power are not inherently feminist, especially if that woman is going to curtail the rights and freedoms of other women. However, expanding diversity in politics is important, especially after an entire history’s worth of institutional discrimination, and it should be signaled that everyone has the opportunity to participate in governing.

“Unfortunately, diversity is not enough to have a substantive and issue-based impact; it will take voter support and the mobilization of a dying local media.”

comes to foreign policy, white dominance and the patriarchy have created challenges in the study and implementation of international relations, ultimately facilitating instability. Gov. Newsom’s appointment of Senator Alex Padilla in 2019 created new opportunities to motivate and mobilize voters. A lack of perspective has negative effects in various fields, while diversity presents an opportunity for engagement and growth where things were stagnant before.

There needs to be a concerted national effort to mobilize underrepresented communities. As African American representation increases within the federal government, conversations and actions on the topic of social justice have permeated the halls of Congress. Social justice reform doesn’t happen because lawmakers have a sudden epiphany of humanity; it happens because activists demand, push and protest.

Having diversity in government does have a tangible effect. In a study by Associate Professor Tiffany Barnes at the University of Kentucky using data from 20 sub-Saharan African countries, there was a strong correlation between female representation and the participation of women in politics. When it

Those individuals must be provided with a more welcoming state of affairs and encouraged instead of boxed out. Regardless of how people feel about the effectiveness of representative democracy, the U.S. is supposed to be one, so it’s high time the government got on board.

As frustrating as it is, from the country to the city level, the primary lever all citizens have to pull is their right

to vote. In Riverside, voter turnout needs to be increased, with a mere 16% turnout in the March primaries. This new misalignment within the City Council can be, at least in part, attributed to a lack of voter intensity and participation. The city has options to increase minority voter turnout in elections by increasing accessibility. In California, county elections officials send vote-by-mail ballots to all active and registered voters. Awareness about allowances for time off to vote can also increase voter turnout.

It is also more difficult to make informed decisions in local elections as local political coverage and print journalism have struggled in recent years. The most important part of democracy is building an educated electorate, which the media has failed to do. At the same time, local news outlets and newspapers fall by the wayside. It’s unfortunate since a monumental part of building up participation in government and representative democracy is rebuilding media literacy and community engagement.

The changes being made in Riverside represent a struggle to implement diversity while also trying to govern. It’s still possible that the Riverside City Council will be able to address issues of infrastructure and public safety brought to them by their constituents, even with this mismatch of political beliefs and representation. Unfortunately, with a system as counterintuitive as this and a public so ill-informed, no one should get their hopes up.

Upholding outdated laws threatens democracy and individual rights

LILIANNA ANGEL Contributing Writer

The Arizona Supreme Court’s recent continuation of a Civil War law on abortion is upsetting and a disgrace to the U.S. Constitution.

For the past few weeks, the Arizona Supreme Court has fostered debate on its upholding of a Civil War law enacted in 1864, a near-total ban on abortion. The court has heard three challenges altogether, and the third attempt has overturned it. It is appalling that an arcane Civil War law would be upheld, and this ruling directly threatens democracy.

Upholding this 160-year-old law would set the country back detrimentally. This law isn’t even a U.S. law; it was part of the racist Confederacy that no longer exists. Thankfully, Arizona’s legislature exercised some common sense and passed a bill to repeal the law. Three GOP legislators in the state’s House of Representatives defied party lines by siding with Democrats to abolish the Civil War law.

The Arizona State Senate is expected to consider a repeal vote in the upcoming week. Given that two Republican state senators have already backed the repeal effort, the law looks like it will be removed. However, if the legislature fails to effectively repeal the abortion ban, it risks perpetuating poorer health outcomes for women. Abortion bans have been shown to lead to increased risks of unsafe abortions and ultimately contribute to more women/people with uteruses dying. Lawmakers must prioritize modern healthcare needs and individual rights over outdated beliefs and laws.

As one of Arizona’s closest neighbors, Californians will be impacted by the enforcement of this law. Dobbs v. Jackson

Women’s Health Organization, the case that overturned Roe v. Wade, was a devastating decision that compromised the medical privacy and security of millions of Americans. With numerous states making abortion access more difficult, California is left as one of the few major states protecting abortion access and protecting out-of-state abortion seekers.

An abortion ban in Arizona would cause an overflow for California clinics as it is one of the remaining states that legalized abortion nearest to Arizona. Thus, Arizona residents will go to where abortion is legal and can be safely done. There is hope to address a potential overflow of clinics in California as Gov. Gavin Newsom has proposed legislation that, if necessary, would allow abortion doctors from Arizona to work in California.

It’s also important to note that abortions don’t always pertain to a fetus; they can involve a range of medical circumstances, including cases such as removing abnormal tissue growth, as is the case with molar pregnancies or addressing a silent miscarriage that necessitates the same treatment as an abortion. The possible ban in Arizona endangers the medical care of more than just abortion seekers.

There are countless reasons why someone does or does not choose to have an abortion, and those reasons are valid. No one should be forced to have a child for any reason. When discussing the topic of abortion, everyone with the ability to become pregnant should have a say in what happens to their

body; cisgender men cannot be allowed to have the final say.

There’s a clear double standard: women are expected to bear the responsibility for sexual activity, while men are not. An abortion ban and potential restrictions on men’s bodily choices, like mandated vasectomies, are essentially identical, yet the conversation around vasectomies is notably absent. It is unfair and threatens democracy because it denies individuals autonomy over their bodies and limits fundamental rights.

Upholding outdated laws, such as the 1864 Arizona Civil War abortion ban and current laws banning abortion, pose a significant threat to democracy by infringing on individual rights and limiting personal autonomy. These laws reflect a regressive approach that disregards evolving societal values and medical advancements. To protect democracy and promote a more just and equitable society, it

all individuals

continued advocacy and action.■ H

The disappearance of 99 cent stores is going to create significant financial hardship

SONALI WHITTLE Staff Writer

With the closure of 99 cent stores, affordable items will not be as accessible in food-insecure areas already impacted by the pandemic.

The recent announcement of the closure of 99 cent stores has caused an uproar as people, particularly those from low-income households, scurry to the stores to stock up on items before closing. Dollar stores have been a lifeline for these families for years, with thousands of customers who rely on their cost-effective prices and affordability. Unfortunately, economic conditions have led to the closure of these affordable stores, which will disproportionately impact these already struggling households.

The downfall of the 99 cent store can be attributed to inflation, rising levels of product and changes in consumer demand. Products that are normally available for a dollar plus tax will now have to be purchased from other sources that charge two to three times more than the 99 cent store cost. A simple two-dollar bag of flour will cost seven dollars from establishments such as Safeway. Over time, these costs will add up, making food much more expensive for families that have budgeted based on 99 cent store pricing. The sudden 200 to 300% increase in prices of basic goods will create more financial strain on the households most in need.

According to a study conducted by the University of Southern California (USC) in 2023, about one million Los Angeles (LA)

County residents are considered food insecure, a figure exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of school lunches and business closures made food less accessible, leaving a lasting impact. Businesses were forced to shut down, and people were forced to work from home or go without a job for

2007-2009. This kind of economic crisis was seen across the country and the world. Many were and are still forced to live with economic instability. The stark contrast in unemployment and job loss rates contribute to lasting effects seen today, with residents still unable to afford regular prices on basic goods.

months. In March, at the start of the pandemic, employment fell by 22.4 million, which is a 15% percent drop. Compared with the Great Recession of 2008, the 15% drop is a 10% increase from the recession period from

It is important to pay attention to the growing level of local food insecurity right here in the Inland Empire (IE). Current data indicates that 400,000 IE residents do not have access to enough food on a daily basis, put-

ting into perspective how rampant food insecurity is locally. As food deserts, areas that do not have as much access to grocery stores pop up, the closure of affordable stores is especially concerning. This leaves residents forced to pursue options such as fast-food restaurants or more processed food. Healthier options are now considered a luxury and not a norm in food deserts. For communities like these, 99 cent store closures compounded with the economic hardship of the pandemic are just a recipe for total disaster. Families in food-insecure areas desperately need access to cheap basic goods, especially when government assistance cannot close the gap created by inflation. After making it through unstable economic conditions and a pandemic, the people of Southern California deserve to experience food security with cheaper and affordable options. Situations like these are hard to control with the rising number of people qualifying as food insecure. Still, affordable places like the 99 cent store offered a temporary solution for lower-income families’ struggles. Although the closure of these stores cannot be stopped, it is crucial to acknowledge the communities that are most affected by this decision.■ H

is imperative to overturn such restrictive legislation and uphold the fundamental rights of

through

Features

Horoscopes for when spring has sprung

You’re halfway through the notoriously difficult spring quarter …

Aries: World

MArch 21 - April 19 Arch

These have been a long few months, but rewarding ones. Relationships are coming full circle, projects are coming to a close, and achievements are being made. Look back at all you’ve accomplished this year. You’ve come so far already — imagine what you can do if you keep up the momentum.

cAncer: foUr of sWords ncer: foU ords

JUne 21 - JUly 22 Une JU

You’re feeling a little bit of indecision. You’re not sure whether to act or to keep your cool. The Four of Swords is a sign of patience and mediation — keep your cards up your sleeve, keep your plans to yourself and keep from making a move until you’re absolutely sure it’s the right time to strike.

librA: sTAr ibrA:

sepTeMber 23 - ocTober 22 epTeM

You may have been facing some difficult challenges recently, but the Star is a sign that it’s all coming to a close. You’re beginning to find your way again, feeling a sense of direction and purpose that you’ve been sorely missing. Allow yourself to feel hope for the future, no matter how far away it seems right now.

cApricorn: nine of WAnds pricorn: deceMber 22 - JAnUAry 19 eceM A UA

Capricorn, this is going to be a tough few weeks. You’re going to have to put in a lot of time and effort to see success in your academic life, but keep your eye on the finish line. It may be difficult, but you know you have it in you to see it through, and the rewards will be so much greater.

TAUrUs: Ace of penTAcles r p TAcles

April 20 - MAy 20 Ay

You’re looking at the beginning of a new project. It may seem daunting at first — maybe you’ve never done anything like this, maybe you have no idea how to proceed — but if you spend too long waffling, then you’ll never get it done. Now is the time to make your move.

leo: KinG of penTAcles G enTA

JUly 23 - AUGUsT 22 Uly AUGU

The King of Pentacles is a powerful and wealthy figure who has mastered his domain. You’re feeling a pull in this direction — whether you’re hurting for money or you’ve just hit a windfall, the material world is on your mind. Seek out someone close to you who has found success in this area, and be honest with them — ask their advice. The worst they can say is no.

scorpio: pAGe of WAnds corpio: WA ocTober 23 - noVeMber 21 c ober n M

The Page of Wands is a youthful and hopeful figure, eager to get something done but not entirely sure what that might be. You’re bursting with unfulfilled energy and motivation — now all you have to do is pick a direction and stick with it. That commitment is makeor-break for you.

AqUAriUs: Ace of sWords UA

JAnUAry 19 - febrUAry 18 A UA

You’ve got plenty of new ideas and vague plans, but you haven’t put them into action quite yet. You’re at the beginning of a new stage, a new period of your life, and it’s up to you where you go with it — you have plenty of potential, but now is the time to make it concrete.

Aedan Ferrara, Production Manager

GeMini: Moon

MAy 21 - JUne 20 A

You haven’t been entirely honest, Gemini. Look at how much effort you have spent putting up facades and maintaining deceptions. Things may have worked out so far, but your luck won’t last forever. Sometimes honesty really is the best policy, even if it is a little daunting. Don’t be afraid to open up to those around you.

VirGo: six of WAnds G AUGUsT 23 - sepTeMber 22 TeM

Virgo, these past few weeks have been chaotic and confusing. You haven’t always been sure of yourself, and you haven’t made as much progress as you’d have liked. That’s alright because your luck is about to turn! Don’t get discouraged yet — it’s just a little more time until you find the direction you’ve been looking for.

sAGiTTAriUs: foUr of WAnds TTA

noVeMber 22 - deceMber 21

You’ve been feeling a little homesick recently. This week, home will come to you, whether it’s an old friend or some other reminder of the familiar. Take this time to appreciate and celebrate the good things in life, even if they aren’t within arm’s reach right at this moment.

pisces: KinG of WAnds G A febrUAry 19 - MArch 20 Arch

The King of Wands is an intellectual and an academic. He symbolizes success and mastery in his field and a competent grasp of every mental challenge he faces. You, too, are well on your way to seeing this success — but know that even a King has to work to earn and maintain his position..

FEATURES:

PLUR YOUR WAY THROUGH YOUR FIRST RAVE

Although it may seem daunting, raves provide life-lasting memories and a once-in-a-lifetime experience

By: Hansel Chu, Sports Editor

Raves have started to gain popularity among college students, especially here at the University of California, Riverside (UCR). Raves are music festivals where people flock to listen to electronic dance music (EDM) late into the night. Among college students, raves are a time when friends get together, dress up and create life-lasting memories. With the increasing popularity of EDM, more and more college students are starting to attend these events. However, the predominant notion of raves and EDM are negative, and the main questions with raves are: how do people listen to EDM? And how do they prepare themselves for a two-to-three-day bender? Although the idea of a rave may seem daunting and intimidating, this guide will make sure you are prepared and excited for your first rave.

1. Create a playlist with your friends

Most first-time ravers don’t know what genres or songs to expect when they go to a rave. Gather some friends who are familiar with EDM and create a shared playlist on any music platform. This way, you can be introduced to some different genres of EDM and familiarize yourself with some classic EDM songs. If your friend group is all first-time ravers, no worries. Whether you prefer Spotify, Apple Music or another streaming platform, rest assured that there’s a pre-made playlist waiting for you, filled with tracks perfectly suited for the upcoming rave.

2. Make some Kandi Kandi are bracelets that are made from beads, charms and other materials, usually with words or sayings. Kandi holds significant importance to the rave community as these bracelets are intended to either be worn, traded, or given to other ravers as a sign of PLUR. PLUR — Peace, Love, Unity and Respect — is usually a symbol of being respectful and kind to those around you. Receiving and giving Kandi is like giving or receiving gifts during Christmas. It feels good to give out Kandi, and you feel special when someone gives you Kandi. It’s a great way to spread positivity and show you care about those close to and around you.

4. Watch out for your valuables

3. No limitations on clothing

The coolest thing about raves is that you can wear whatever you want, and no one will judge you. Raves are all about inclusivity and being expressive, and a great way to show that is what you wear to the rave. The majority of the ladies wear cute lingerie that matches the theme of their friends. If you don’t feel as bold, colorful crop tops paired with shorts or skirts are also viable. For the guys, the majority of them wear tank tops paired with shorts or track pants but some will also layer with bold button-up shirts. Another staple for rave fashion is pashminas. Pashminas not only spice up your rave fashion but also provide comfort and warmth when it gets cold later in the night. If you can’t get your hands on a pashmina, aluminum blankets will also keep you warm.

Although raves are a safe space for fun, they are also a hotspot for pick-pocketers. Raves are notorious for phone thieves and there have been many accounts of people’s phones being stolen at raves, myself included. To combat this, never put your phone in your pockets and constantly check if your phone is in your hands. The safest way to ensure phone safety is to get anti-theft phone lanyards on Amazon, which are about $13. You can also get a fanny pack or a small cross-body bag in which you can put your phone or other valuables without having the fear of losing it. Speaking of valuables, if you are planning to take substances at a rave, make sure you purchase them from a credible friend and test them for fentanyl.

5. Set up rendezvous points with your group

Before entering a festival, your rave group should set up rendezvous points inside the rave with time stamps. Setting up rendezvous points with your rave group is extremely important as most raves lack service or fast data, which makes communication difficult. Since there are so many people at a rave, it is easy to get lost when moving through large crowds. There will also be instances where your group will split up because they want to see different artists. By setting up rendezvous points, everyone will be on the same page on where to meet and finding each other will be way more efficient.

6. Spread some PLUR

Again, PLUR is a symbol of being respectful and kind to those around you. The whole concept of raves is that it’s a safe space where everyone is kind to each other while listening to music. Some first-time ravers don’t know any better and are aggressive or rude towards others. When moving through large crowds, make sure to say “Excuse me” and “Thank you.” Don’t be afraid to compliment other people’s clothing or totem poles. Check up on your group to make sure everyone is okay, and lend a hand out to strangers if they need help. After all, everyone is there to have a great time, and most people will help you out if something happens to you.

7. Be open-minded and have fun

The most important thing you can do at a rave is to have the best time of your life. The music might sound strange or weird since it’s your first time, but if you have an open mind, you will start to enjoy it. Most rave tickets are expensive, so the least you can do is to have fun. Raves are one of the few places where you can be as expressive as you want without anyone judging you. Don’t be afraid to talk and dance with other strangers. Raves are all about meeting and making new friends, and it makes the rave experience much more enjoyable. Remember, the rave is only as fun as you make it.

A shared Google Calendar is the way to my heart

YSABEL NAKASONE Opinions Editor

Dating advice from The Highlander’s infamously and terminally single Opinions Editor, because coaches don’t play...

My girlfriend wants me to be more spontaneous in our relationship. I’m struggling on doing this as I can mostly do the regular dinner and a movie date. What are some other ways I can be more spontaneous in my relationship?

Anonymous

This is something that you should ask for greater clarification on because spon-

taneity is a double-edged sword. You’re probably wondering what areas she wants you to be more spontaneous in, and you run the risk of doing things that are not what she had in mind.

You also need to sit down and have a conversation about scheduling. It’s not super sexy or romantic, but organization and coordination are important to your relationship. You need to have a straightforward conversation about what you can do

and what time you have. It’s not spontaneous and is the opposite of what your girlfriend wants, but you still need parameters and boundaries to be spontaneous. As ridiculous as this sounds, share a calendar and engage in some digital intimacy.

There are easy ways to show appreciation for your partner spontaneously, which is what I suspect she is looking for. For some girls, that means words of affirmation or small acts of service. It might just

be that she wants you to show you care by doing little things like buying flowers or whatever act you think she would appreciate. I don’t think she’s looking for huge changes to your relationship, but the small things matter in relationships. People notice when partners are not doing the little and, frankly, easy things. ■ H

A variation of a classic Arroz con Leche from home

MARIBEL GAMEZ-REYES Assistant Features Editor

An easy and minimalistic recipe that keeps the essence of traditional rice pudding.

This simple delicacy has been a staple for the time I’ve been in college — a nostalgic throwback that reminds me of the comforting memories of being home. Reconstructing this beloved childhood recipe in college has evolved into a more beloved appreciation. It never fails to pick up my mood on a light or heavily burdened day of work. The recipe I’ve learned to make was one I learned growing up watching my mom cook. Keeping in mind midterm season followed by finals, I hope this recipe can elevate your mood and remind you that one good thing can make a difference for the rest of your day.

Serving Size: 3-4

Ingredients:

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups water

2 cups whole milk (or whatever milk you prefer)

2 small cinnamon sticks

4 Tbsp light brown sugar (more if you want it sweeter)

Pinch of Salt

Step 0

Preparing to make your Arroz con Leche means rinsing the rice before anything else. Place your measured amount of long-grain white rice in a bowl, add enough water to submerge it. Gently swirl the grains and water around until it becomes clouded. Drain the water and repeat this process again until the water runs clear.

Step 1

Pour water, cinnamon sticks and long-grain white rice in a small saucepan and bring to a boil.

Step 2

Reduce heat to a simmering point and add milk of choice, a pinch of salt and light brown sugar. To prevent scorching the milk mixture over medium heat, stir occasionally as you observe when it’s needed.

Step 3

After 10 minutes from the last step, the mixture should be thinner in texture (even ratio of rice and liquid) to make a nice warm rice porridge. Your Arroz con Leche is ready to serve and enjoy! Additionally, you can add powdered cinnamon and raisins to your portions.

You can’t go wrong with this perfect light dessert for any time of the day!

Una variación clásica del Arroz con Leche de casa

MARIBEL GAMEZ-REYES Assistant Features Editor

Una receta fácil y minimalista que conserva la esencia del tradicional Arroz con Leche.

Esta simple delicia ha sido un alimento básico durante el tiempo que he estado en la universidad — un retorno nostálgico que me recuerda los reconfortantes recuerdos de estar en casa. Reconstruir esta querida receta de la infancia en la universidad ha evolucionado, creciendo la apreciación aún mayor por nunca dejar de levantar mi ánimo en días de trabajo ligeros o pesados. La receta que aprendí a hacer fue una que aprendí viendo a mi mamá cocinar mientras crecía. Teniendo en cuenta la temporada de exámenes parciales seguida con los de finales, espero que esta receta pueda elevar tu estado de ánimo y recordarte que una cosa buena puede marcar la diferencia para el resto de tu día.

Porciones: 3-4

grano largo

2 tazas de agua

2 tazas de leche entera (se puede ajustar al gusto)

2 ramitas pequeñas de canela 4 cucharadas de azúcar morena (más si se prefiere más dulce) y una pizca de sal

Paso 0

Antes de empezar el proceso de cocinar, hay que lavar el arroz antes que cualquier otra cosa. Coloca la medida de arroz blanco de grano largo en un tazón y agrega suficiente agua para sumergirlo. Remueve suavemente los granos y el agua hasta que se nuble. Drena el agua y repite este proceso nuevamente hasta que el agua salga clara.

Paso 1

Echa la medida de agua, ramitas de canela y arroz blanco de grano largo en una cacer-

ola pequeña y deja que hierba.

Paso 2

Baja la intensidad del fuego a un punto de ebullición suave y añade la leche entera, una pizca de sal y azúcar morena. Para evitar que la mezcla de leche se queme mientras está a fuego medio, opta por revolver ocasionalmente cuando observas que es necesario.

Paso 3

Después de 10 minutos desde el último paso, la mixtura debería ser delgada en textura (una porción balanceada de arroz y líquido) para hacer un buen arroz con leche tibia. Tu Arroz con Leche está listo para servir y disfrutar! Además, puedes agregar canela en polvo y pasas a tus porciones.

No puedes equivocarte con este postre ligero perfecto para cualquier momento del día!

Taylor Swift’s lyricism shines in ‘The Tortured Poets Department’ RadaR

Swift’s highly-anticipated 11th studio album’s vulnerable lyrics connect her to fans but misses the mark on production quality and innovation.

CECILE DIROLL Assistant Opinions Editor

Taylor Swift released her highly anticipated 11th studio album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” on April 19, 2024. Two hours after its release, Swift added another 15 new songs — “The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology” — delighting fans with 30 new tracks. A week after its release, the record was the most streamed and topped the Billboard 200.

At the height of her career, “The Tortured Poets Department” follows Swift’s 2023 billion-dollar Eras Tour and 2022 release of “Midnights,” all while dealing with the breakup of a six-year relationship with British actor Joe Alwyn. Invoking a “folklore” and “evermore” style, Swift details her complex and chaotic feelings in poetic lyrics under a sonic pop backdrop. Despite the album’s initial success, it has received mixed reviews about its production quality, the number of songs and the originality of the work. However, while “The Tortured Poets Department” may not be her best album, Swift’s soul-bearing, vulnerable lyrics — which also update fans on the current status of her life — are the connection people are finding to this album.

“Fortnight,” featuring Post Malone, sets the album’s tumultuous mood with its unfiltered and tormented lyrics. Singing about a previous relationship in which both lovers have moved on and married other people, Swift’s anger is palpable when she says, “I love you, it’s ruining my life / I touched you for only a fortnight.” Malone’s vibrato vocals mix well with

Swift’s dark lull, making the song one of the best on the album.

The fifth track, “So Long, London,” lives up to Swift’s previous Track 5 songs, known to be the most heartbreaking and emotionally wrenching on her albums — including tracks like “All Too Well,” “Dear John” and “The Archer.” Swift opens the song by singing “So Long, London” in a haunting echo similar to church bells, presumingly alluding to the struggles she experienced during her relationship with Joe Alwyn. The lyric “And I’m pissed off you let me give you all that youth for free” is gutting with its honesty and poignancy. However, “So Long, London” is overall filled with respectful acceptance about the end of the much-documented romance.

“So long, London / Stitches undone / Two graves, one gun / You’ll find someone,” are Swift’s final words about the six-year relationship.

And it wouldn’t be a Taylor Swift album if there was not one song that paired depressing lyrics with an upbeat pop sound. “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” pokes fun at the experience of feeling heart-broken, yet having to continue with life and work — “I’m so depressed, I act like it’s my birthday every day / I’m so obsessed with him, but he avoids me like the plague.”

However, as listeners venture down the tracklist, the production becomes repetitive, with most songs sharing the same pop-sync sounds, light drum machine beats and sonic melodies. While Swift’s intense

lyricism prevents listeners from skipping songs or giving up entirely by track 20, her long-time producer, Jack Antonoff, who has worked with Swift since “1989,” is receiving much backlash for the lackluster production in the record’s first half. Many fans believe that Swift should have instead collaborated with Aaron Dessner, a member of The National, for the entire album as it would have improved the overall quality.

While the first 15 tracks have some standout songs, the second half, or “The Anthology,” is by far the more creative part of the album. Dessner’s production of songs such as “Clara Bow,” “Peter,” “thanK you AlMee,” “The Prophecy” and “I Look Into People’s Windows” relies on dynamic tempos and acoustic instruments that perfectly suit Swift’s storytelling lyrics.

Since rerecording her stolen albums, Swift has not held back in releasing content for her fans. While “vault songs” incentivize Swifties to buy “Taylor’s Version” of her earlier albums, the quality of the work has them hungering for more. However, in “The Tortured Poets Department,” the quantity doesn’t necessarily make up for the quality. A better approach would have been for Swift to release the album’s 15 most qualifying and representative songs on April 19 and then release the other 15 songs a few months later in a deluxe edition.

In all, “The Tortured Poets Department” is not an album for the casual Taylor Swift listener. Listeners must be well-versed in

“Taylor Lore,” including her previous romances, celebrity feuds and early career history, to understand and decode her lyrics. In the song “The Tortured Poets Department,” Swift references an incident with Matty Healy, with whom she was reported to have been in a relationship, “At dinner, you take my ring off my middle finger / And put it on the one people put wedding rings on / And that’s the closest I’ve come to my heart exploding.” These raw and painful lyrics will resonate with those who have followed Swift’s relationship with Alwyn closely for years, assuming that he was “the one” and the two would eventually marry. While her openness and vulnerability connect Swift to millions of fans, decoding lyrics and clue-hunting may not appeal to those who prefer her happier and more upbeat songs.

■ H

Verdict:

Unlike Swift’s previous albums, “The Tortured Poets Department” will likely not be a traditionally appealing or critically lauded album. But, Swifties are a loyal fanbase and will look past this record’s shortcomings as Swift’s imaginative and clever lyricism connects her to fans.

Nothing really happens, except for when Wallows releases new music

CAROLYN STARR

Contributing Writer

The fifth-anniversary edition of Wallows’ debut album charms casual listeners and devoted fans alike.

It’s been five years since the release of Wallows’ debut studio album “Nothing Happens.” To celebrate its anniversary, the Los Angeles-based band released a limited edition vinyl on April 20 — this year’s Record Store Day. It includes three of the band’s singles and most notably features a previously unreleased track, “Bad Remake.” These additions make for a treasured, collectible version of the album that is sure to become a prized possession for die-hard fans.

The first deviation from the standard edition happens a third of the way through the album with “Trust Fall.” This track was originally released alongside “Just Like a Movie” in 2019 as a double single, shortly after the release of “Nothing Happens.” Though “Trust Fall” and “Just Like a Movie” belong to the same era as “Nothing Happens,” both sonically and aesthetically, it seems like the band made the right decision to scrap them from the finalized version. There is an obvious shift in the atmosphere once those songs begin to play, and they don’t quite find their places among the rest of the tracklist. A newer fan might stumble through this sequence, but those who have been there since the beginning will no doubt appreciate the intertwining of these projects nevertheless.

The same can be said about “Underneath

the Streetlights in the Winter Outside Your House,” released in 2018. Loyal fans familiar with the band’s deep cuts will instantly recognize the lyrics this track shares with “Ice Cold Pool,” giving an outright explanation as to why Wallows chose to include it on this version of the album. However, this track stands out among Wallows’ discography entirely, not just in relation to the album, mostly because of its heavy, punk drum beat and overdriven vocals. “Nothing Happens” is deliberately clean and polished. The best thing about all of these tracks is that they carry the youthful, energetic spirit that embodies Wallows, no matter how different they may sound.

“Bad Remake” easily wins the hearts of new and old fans alike, fitting in perfectly with the rest of the album. Its jangly guitars are reminiscent of ‘80s punk and alternative rock songs, like Descendents’ “In Love This Way” and The Smiths’ “Rusholme Ruffians.” Braeden Lemasters hypnotizes listeners with his nostalgic, Lennon-like voice as he criticizes the superficiality of the entertainment industry: “Fame is a grave / Can’t breathe, but hope you’re well paid.” He extends this sentiment through the metaphor of a bad remake, as he longs for revolutionary originality: “There’s things that you wish you could change / Some films just should

not be remade.” It’s a shame and a wonder that this track did not make the final cut of “Nothing Happens,” as it shimmers and shines from start to finish.

“Nothing Happens” is a staple for any Wallows fan. It is the gateway album that allows listeners to fall in love with them and their music, and it provides a foundation for those who want to grow with them as they experiment with their sound later on in “Remote” and “Tell Me That It’s Over.” That is exactly why the three singles included in the anniversary edition are gems, even if they don’t necessarily belong there.

With the success of the fifth-anniversary edition of Wallows’ debut album, fans can look to “Model,” out on May 24. ■ H

Verdict:

With the release of three new singles in the past three months, Wallows have returned to their original captivating sound, which is sure to amass tons of new listeners and charm devoted fans.

Raise your wands to celebrate International ‘Harry Potter’ Day on May 2

NOLA PERIFEL

Contributing Writer

Spellbound across the globe, Harry Potter fans celebrate the wonders of International Harry Potter Day in honor of the world-renowned series.

Happy Harry Potter Day, Potterheads!

The “Harry Potter” series introduces you to a world where magic is real. With the “Harry Potter” series, you step into a world where magic is real. Written by J.K. Rowling and later adapted into movies, “Harry Potter” is one of the bestselling franchises of all time.

But “Harry Potter” is more than just a series of books and movies; it’s a journey into the heart of wizarding wonder. Harry’s story, just as powerful as the lightning scar on his forehead, takes place at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he meets brilliant Hermione Granger and loyal Ron Weasley, portrayed by Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, respectively in the movies. Within and beyond the walls of the school, Harry also faces the antagonist, the man who holds Harry’s destiny in the palm of his hand — Lord Voldemort. In this battle of good versus evil, “neither can live while the other survives.”

over the world gather together every year to raise their wands to “Harry Potter.”

On May 2, 1998, the Battle of Hogwarts was won. Harry Potter defeated his archnemesis Voldemort for a final time, taking down his army of death eaters with him. So, to celebrate the amazing book and film series “Harry Potter,” the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister David Cameron declared May 2nd as International Harry Potter Day, in 2012. Every year since, it has been celebrated around the world by avid fans of this universe.

International Harry Potter Day is celebrated all over the world in many ways. Here are a few:

1. Have a “Harry Potter” marathon.

In this series, the attachment that comes with the main characters and even many secondary characters grips readers throughout the series and, by the end, fans feel as if they know the characters personally, feeling every emotion and every loss along the way. Children and adults from all

The most popular way that fans celebrate is to do a full “Harry Potter” marathon. Either through a full re-watch or reread of the movies or books, people sit down and remember all of the memories and emotions they have felt from “Harry Potter.” This makes the “Harry Potter” marathon one of the best ways to celebrate May 2!

2. Check if theaters in your area are re-releasing the wizarding world movies.

Additionally, some movie theaters have special screenings of “Harry Potter” movies in early May. This is done to allow fans to revisit their favorite movie franchise in the cinema. Sometimes these screenings are paired with events and activities to make the celebrations even more special.

3. Have a “Harry Potter” party!

Other fans celebrate with a “Harry Potter”-themed party with sorting hat cupcakes with green, blue, yellow and red filling. In some parties, guests are invited through Hogwarts acceptance letters to sip on hot, cold or frozen butterbeer. These are other perfect ways to celebrate amongst friends.

heads choose to celebrate.

5. Keep an eye out for community events celebrating “Harry Potter Day.”

Many community events take place around the world in honor of International “Harry Potter” Day as well, such as potions classes or wand-crafting workshops. In 2023, the Fork and Film cinema-restaurant screened “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” around May 2 to honor the holiday.

6. Post your favorite Harry Potter quotes and relive your memories of the franchise!

4. Go to the Universal Studios Wizarding World.

Universal Studios in Orlando and Hollywood both have “Harry Potter” worlds representing Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, which is also a way that many Potter-

On social media, Potterheads celebrate May 2 by tagging #InternationalHarryPotterDay when they post about the holiday. Over 5,000 posts have been posted under that hashtag, showing J.K. Rowling’s global influence. Quotes, pictures, memories, and fan art were posted to commemorate the Battle of Hogwarts that day.

So put on your cloaks, grab your brooms and celebrate the day the Battle of Hogwarts was won. ■ H

Challengers’ is the erotic sports movie of the century

By: Ramita Setty, SW

In “Challengers,” Luca Guadagnino takes the competitive nature of tennis and charges it with eroticism. Every swing of the racket is punctuated with heavy grunts and every drip of sweat feels intimate. Operating within the rules of tennis, the main three characters of “Challengers,” pent up with passion and sexual tension, express everything they need to on the court. The film revolves around the tumultuous relationship between three tennis players over thirteen years. Tashi (Zendaya) is married to Art (Mike Faist), a talented pro on a losing streak. To boost his confidence, Tashi signs Art up to compete in a challenger (a low-end tournament), where he faces off against his former best friend Patrick (Josh O’Connor) — who also happens to be Tashi’s ex-boyfriend.

It’s a premise that doesn’t sound all that different from countless other films revolving around love triangles, but Guadagnino is the factor that makes “Challengers” something special. With long closeup shots, inventive camerawork and a blaring techno score, “Challengers” focuses on the thrill and rush of competition and thrives on the understanding that hate and jealousy can be sexy. It’s fitting that there are no sex scenes within “Challengers” — the tennis is the action. What goes unsaid in the relentless back-and-forth between the characters is found within the expletives released when another scores, the restless energy in the breaks between the sets and the viciousness unleashed satisfyingly in the smashing of a racket.

‘Challengers’ is filled with deliciously loaded interplay between three star tennis players as they combat and manipulate their desires for each other.

If tennis is a way of existing within the world of “Challengers,” then Tashi has no way of living following the injury that kills her tennis career. Zendaya infuses Tashi with a quiet sense of frustration and loneliness that comes from losing the one thing that she dedicated her life to. All of Tashi’s desires are hopelessly mixed into tennis, and she does everything she can to keep that connection to the sport alive via manipulation. Yet, she’s not un- sympathetic; as the force that con- nects everything in “Challengers” together, she goes after everything she wants with such fierce determi- nation. It’s hard not to root for her as she channels her frustrations into her star player husband, Art, attempting to vicariously live the career she was meant to have through him. But Art, despite his success, was never obsessive about tennis the same way Tashi still is, and their marriage suffers as a re- sult. Obsession and possession are intertwined, resulting in tension so palpable you can almost taste it.

Speaking of taste, “Challengers” use of food as phallic imagery cannot be understated. Bananas, hot dogs and churros are chewed up with palpable joy and abandon. Food is a pleasure, and both Patrick and Art revel in it. And in their later years, it’s something that has to be abandoned. Art guzzles down nutritional supplements of varying tastes — a sacrifice made to keep his body a temple, a sacrifice to the games he’s spent his life playing. It’s not until Patrick and Art’s final tennis match where Patrick cheekily eats a banana while staring straight at Art that food becomes enjoyable again.

‘Abigail’: A ballerina vampire’s bloody ballet that is far from terrifying

By Saatvika Gorti, CW

*Spoilers*

Loosely inspired by the 1936 film “Dracula’s Daughter,” “Abigail” was theatrically released on April 19. The horror-comedy film follows a group of six criminals who kidnap the daughter of a man from whom they demand 50 million dollars in exchange for the 12-year-old girl, Abigail (Alisha Weir). The group is initially unaware of Abigail’s father’s identity and has to watch her for 24 hours so that each of them can collect their seven-million-dollar check.

The “rules” of this operation indicate that no personal information is to be shared within the group, so the criminals use aliases. Through these aliases, the audience learns the backstory of the individuals; sociopathic getaway driver Dean (Angus Cloud), former NYPD detective Frank (Dan Stevens), ex-Marine Rickles (Will Catlett), mob enforcer Peter (Kevin Durand), affluent unethical hacker Sammy (Kathryn Newton) and ex-Army medic and junkie Joey (Melissa Barrera) who is doing this operation to get her son back.

After what feels like an hour of setup, the horror begins when Dean is mysteriously decapitated, prompting Frank to point a gun at Abigail to learn the identity of her father. Learning that he is Kirstoff Lazar (Matthew Goode), a powerful underground crime lord, the gang begins to panic. Peter tries to leave the mansion, only to find that the security system has activated, trapping them inside. While they search for ways to escape, Rickles is mauled to death, leading Frank to threaten Abigail. Abigail then transforms into a creature and begins to attack the remaining four.

Only after Sammy’s exclamation does the audience learn that Abigail is actually a vampire, and her manipulative behavior begins to make sense. It’s revealed that Abigail had lured the group together to kill them all, seeking vengeance for wrongs against her father, who turned her. As they try to survive, Joey discovers that sunlight is Abigail’s weakness. However, Sammy gets bitten by Abigail, leading to her being controlled and killing Peter by feeding on him. Abigail then targets Frank and Joey, resulting in Abigail’s explosive, bloody death when Joey reflects sunlight onto her.

Patrick and Art’s friendship, created by years of shared adolescent experiences and punctuated with intense homoerotic energy, seems to be at its worst as their mutual attraction to Tashi comes between them. But on the court, they energize and infuriate each other in a way only they could do for each other through their tennis.

“Challengers” isn’t interested in giving its characters or the audience a sense of relief from the sexual tension of the movie. As the film’s climax, filled with some of the best and most inventive methods of filming tennis ever put to screen, draws to an end, there is only the sense of frustration over the lack of release; the same lack that all three main characters feel throughout the film. In that sense, “Challengers” will leave you both disoriented and empathic with how it feels to want another person so intensely and not have them.

Verdict: “Challengers” is a delightfully steamy movie that takes a sport about an intense game between two people and makes it erotic. Seeing it in theaters is a wildly sensory experience.

Despite its R-rating for ‘strong bloody violence,’ ‘Abigail’ dances around true horror, focusing more on comedy than scares.

When it came to the final two survivors, the head of the operation, Lambert (Giancarlo Esposito) — who has been working with Abigail while planning her death — convinces Frank to turn into a vampire. Frank then kills Lambert and goes after Abigail and Joey, causing the two girls to team up and ultimately defeat him. Joey then gets to go home to reunite with her son.

The film incorporates comedy and gore to create three-dimensional characters and uses symbolism such as a lollipop for Joey’s addiction and Abigail’s love for ballet. However, these symbols contribute nothing to the cinematography or plotline, serving as filler.

However, Weir, previously known for “Matilda,” is the selling point of this movie with her delivery, expressions and dedication to portraying a murderous ballerina vampire. The stark contrast from innocent, sweet Matilda to a cunning vampire is baffling to witness as Weir goes full throttle in her role as Abigail, solidifying her as the best actor in the entire film. The comedic timing of her fellow actors is where they excelled during the movie, but in other scenes, the acting was subpar, further emphasizing the talent Weir possesses.

Despite Weir’s acting elevating the film, the movie still falls short in other areas. While the special effects and CGI are decent, they don’t fully compensate for weak dialogue, uninspired camerawork and underexplored themes.

The movie is ideal for passing the time or recommending a scary-butnot-scary movie to a friend. “Abigail” can still be enjoyable for a casual movie night, offering a blend of horror and comedy that’s perfect for a mellow viewing experience.

Verdict: Kidnapping Dracula’s daughter doesn’t ever end well — and neither does “Abigail.”

images courtesy of cleanpng.com and MGM

Distributed by Universal Pictures

Emily Henry’s ‘Funny Story’ is a shot

to the heart and a self-help book wrapped in one

YSABEL NAKASONE Opinions Editor

Daphne and Miles’ story is a love letter to anyone who has had to fix what someone else broke.

In Emily Henry’s newest book, released on April 23, 2024, the “buttoned-up” Daphne and the “scruffy” Miles find themselves in what might be the most uncomfortable roommate situation the world has ever known. Daphne’s fiance, Peter, runs off with his best friend, Petra, the night of his bachelor party, leaving Daphne with a week to move out of the house. Leaving her with nothing, Daphne is forced to move out of the very house he insisted on buying for them in a state far from everything and everyone she has ever known. Despite barely knowing him, Daphne makes the snap decision to room with Miles. The kicker is Petra was Miles’ girlfriend right up until she confessed her love for her childhood best friend.

Miles, a “Bridget Jones’s Diary”-loving bartender, has Daphne in a twist from the start, and the pair barely know how to converse about the weather. Their relationship takes a sharp turn when Peter and Petra send the pair wedding invitations; to the new couple’s shock, the pair RSVP to the wedding. To save face, Daphne tells Peter that she and Miles are dating.

Daphne and Miles tip-toe around each other for nearly the entirety of the book. This slow-burn feels less like a build-up of romance and more like a random series of flashfires. Despite getting down and dirty pretty early on in their fake relationship,

they cut it off almost immediately when Miles’ sister drops in out of the blue. The first-person perspective aspect of the story typically proves to be a detriment as it’s hard to see the connection between the characters building, and “Funny Story” is no exception. The moments of emotional connection and chemistry seem to pop up until Miles suddenly confesses he’s in love. Throughout the story, unseen moments of Daphne and Miles’ love story build in the background, making their romance almost invisible to the reader.

Despite this, Henry still manages to inflict gut-wrenching pain upon readers. It’s easy to relate to Miles and Daphne personally, even if their relationship sometimes feels lacking. Daphne having to watch Peter drive away with Petra was almost scarring. Although Miles makes light of the situation, being terminally optimistic and skillfully “fine,” the tension makes it difficult not to see oneself doing exactly the same. This book excels at defining and showcasing the complications of negative emotions and the uncertainty of never knowing someone else’s.

Emily Henry’s work has always been about more than a simple, cookie-cutter storyline, and this book exemplifies that. “Funny Story” doesn’t end with the usual epilogue where the main characters are mar-

Sustainable fashion is in

MATA ELANGOVAN News Editor

ried, having kids and everything works out swimmingly; it is more open-ended than that, and Henry’s characters are more complicated than that. The relationship between Miles and Daphne falls short because they are complex characters of their own, and Henry’s ability to humanize her characters on an individual level takes the main stage.

This book feels far more like a lesson on friendship than romantic love. In the wake of Peter and Petra’s betrayal, Miles and Daphne learn to lean on each other, and Daphne learns how to build a circle of friends in a way Peter never fostered. What was truly moving about this book was seeing how Miles might have been Daphne’s perfect match because he helped her become a better person rather than the perfect person.

Verdict:

While “Funny Story” falls short in the romance department, Emily Henry makes up for it by skillfully pulling at the heartstrings of her readers.

UCR students showcase their designs at the Earth Day fashion show.

Observing Earth Day on April 22, 2024, Metrolink hosted a sustainable student fashion show competition at Los Angeles’ Union Station stop, showcasing a range of designs from both local high school and college students. This competition featured two entries from the University of California, Riverside (UCR), with one entry in the Textile Designers category and another in the Unconventional Materials Designers Category.

The first category presenting textile designers included three designs entered by Joy Pham, a second-year biochemistry major at UCR. She and two other students modeled pieces made of a mix of secondhand denim and sweater material.

In an interview with The Highlander, Pham explained that she found “Upcycling clothes and giving pieces a second life has always been so interesting.” It was during quarantine that she picked up sewing and

began to create pieces that reflected her own personality and style. When Pham heard of the Metrolink’s Sustainable Fashion Show, she jumped at the opportunity to create her collection, and she shared that “seeing everything come to fruition was a dream come true.”

All three pieces in the “Denim in Flore” collection created by Pham had a spring feel to them despite the traditionally winterweather materials they were composed of. Walking onto the stage to “Feel It” by d4vd first was Pham herself, sporting a white skirt made out of recycled sweater material and a tube top fashioned from an old pair of pants accompanied with a lace trim. Followed by her were her models, Kaegan and Elena, with one wearing a medium-length halter top dress and the other wearing a similar style to Pham, sporting a denim skirt and tank top.

The second category, composed of designers who created their pieces out of unconventional materials, included a submission by a team of students at UCR. Designers Suraj Ganiger, Andrew Murakami, River Shepard and Adelia Urena presented their feature look, “Aeiforia,” modeled by Cody Ho.

Designer Urena commented after the competition that being able to compete was “a once in a lifetime opportunity!” While not every member in the team had experience in making clothes, their entry provided them an opportunity to push out of their comfort zone and try to make something from scratch.

Striding onto stage accompanied by “Black Hole” by The Blasting Company, the model walked looking as if he had walked straight out of some tech-savvy world. His fit was made out of a stylish shirt with an

electric blue trim, pants made from a garbage bag and a face mask out of plastic. This monochromatic blue look was charming and out of the ordinary while fitting into an internet aesthetic.

While neither entry had won the overall contest, both made a passionate statement. The team which composed Aeiforia reflected on the competition, recalling their growth as a team and their fashion expertise. “Even though we didn’t win, we didn’t mind. We got pretty far with it, we had fun at every stage of this project, from brainstorming to completion, and we translated our passion and our idea to create a killer design whose theme, creativity and using a bunch of eclectic items to create awesome clothing that we repurposed, representing the true spirit of the competition, that no other group even thought of.” ■ H

SportS

Highlander Hot Take:

Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham could elevate their squads into the Champions League Final

ISAAC SOLNICK Staff Writer

The Champions League is back with another set of exciting matchups to predict.

Following an underwhelming Round of 16, fans around the globe were preparing themselves for another round of low-scoring fixtures. However, the quarterfinals were anything but lackluster. There were plenty of goals, including a back-and-forth 5-4 thriller between Borussia Dortmund and Atlético Madrid. While the quarterfinals were great, every Champions League enthusiast knows the semifinal round is when the competition is at its best.

In just the past five years, we’ve seen three legendary comebacks at this stage of the tournament. In 2019, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s corner taken quickly and Lucas Moura’s hattrick turned certain defeats into improbable victories. Then, in 2022, super-sub Rodrygo scored a brace to miraculously send the game to extra time. It set up a Karim Benzema panenka to turn the tie around before Manchester City knew what hit them. If the quarterfinals were a foreshadowing of what’s to come, this year’s semifinals will be a must-watch.

Borussia Dortmund vs. PSG

Why Borussia Dortmund Could Win: Borussia Dortmund have defied the odds to make it to this stage. Despite an underwhelming league campaign, Edin Terzic’s side has made it to the semifinal stage for the first time since 2013. After topping the group of death, Dortmund have dealt with every challenge this competition has thrown their way. They left it late against Atlético Madrid, but they will be riding high going into their game against PSG.

Like the many teams before them,

this Dortmund team is super young. Out of all the remaining teams, they have the least expectations. Their youth also allows them to play with a super high intensity. They’ll look to press high up the pitch and counterattack with lightning speed. If they can force PSG’s backline into mistakes, Dortmund’s young guns could run up the score in a hurry.

X-Factor:

Dortmund’s home atmosphere is unmatched. Their yellow wall is intimidating for the most experienced players and Dortmund has been able to use it to their advantage. Against PSV and Atlético Madrid, they rode big home wins in both ties.

Why PSG Could Win:

After years of falling just short, there is something different about this year’s PSG squad. In Luis Enrique’s first season, he revamped a team that lost Lionel Messi and Neymar. Their new front three of Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola leave even the quickest defenses in the dust. Their midfield is young, but Warren Zaire-Emery and Vitinha play way beyond their years.

With both teams featuring in Group F, PSG and Dortmund have already played each other home and away this season. PSG came away with a win and a draw and looked the better team in both games. Dortmund have improved, and Terzic will likely make adjustments, but PSG looked a step ahead earlier in the season.

X-Factor:

As of now, Kylian Mbappé is the best player in the world. The 24-year-old forward can score on a moment’s notice, and Dortmund doesn’t possess a player of anywhere near the same quality. This is his moment, and his name will feature on the scoresheet at some point.

Verdict:

4-2 PSG on aggregate

Bayern Munich vs. Real Madrid

Why Bayern Munich Could Win:

With their 11-year league title run coming to an end, the Bavarians will be extra motivated not to go trophyless this season. Their defense, a glaring weakness earlier this season, has looked much improved with the addition of Eric Dier. The starting XI is littered with experience, and many pieces from their 2020 Champions League-winning team are still here.

Chances will be hard to come by against Los Blancos, but Bayern Munich possesses an elite forward group. Striker Harry Kane leads the line for the Bavarians. A complete forward, Kane can score, playmaker and hold up play at a world-class level. He’s flanked by the electric duo Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sane. Look for Kane to play through balls and switch passes to his wingers to try and catch Real Madrid out of position.

X-Factor:

While Real Madrid will be missing Thibaut Courtois, Bayern Munich can rely on the legendary Manuel Neuer

between the sticks. The Bavarians will need him at his best. Neuer’s timely sweeps can neutralize the pace of the magical Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.

Why Real Madrid Could Win:

After going out without much of a fight at this stage last year, this has been a classic revenge tour season from Los Blancos. They’ve lost to just one team all season and eliminated reigning champions Manchester City in the quarterfinals. Joining from Borussia Dortmund in the summer, Jude Bellingham has thrived under the pressure of the iconic #5 shirt. He filled the void left by the departing Karim Benzema and then some.

Carlo Ancelotti gives his players the tactical flexibility and fluidity to showcase their world-class ability. With this freedom, Los Blancos can create chances in thin air and run up the score. However, against Manchester City, they showed they can also be super organized defensively. They’re capable of sitting deep and disrupting the best teams in the world.

X-Factor:

The favorite to win the competition every year, Real Madrid possesses an aura while playing in the Champions League. Their pedigree that comes with being 14-time European Champions is unmatched. Despite transitioning to a younger core of players in recent years, Ancelotti’s boys play with the same swagger as teams of the past.

Verdict:

3-2 Real Madrid on aggregate ■ H

SPORTS

Recapping an event- ful day one of the NFL draft

By: Terry Nguyen, CW

The first round of the 2024 NFL draft saw six quarterbacks (QBs) come off the board in the first 12 picks, tying a 1983 NFL draft record for the most quarterbacks taken in the first round. The top three picks appeared to match the consensus predictions leading up to the draft: Caleb Williams, followed by Jayden Daniels, then Drake Maye.

Coming out of USC, Williams is considered a generational talent, with “Mahomie” traits that drew comparisons to the Chiefs’ franchise cornerstone. The ability to make off-platform throws with accuracy and velocity is what separates Caleb Williams from the rest of the QBs in this draft class. Williams should be on track to start day one with the departure of Justin Fields via trade to Pittsburgh.

Jayden Daniels grew up not too far from the University of California, Riverside; he was born in San Bernardino and went to Cajon High School, where he threw for over 9000 yards and 122 TD. After taking his talents to Arizona State and LSU, he hopes to be the franchise quarterback of the Washington Commanders, who have not won a playoff game since 2005.

Although Washington signed Marcus Mariota in the offseason, expect Jayden Daniels to contend early for the QB1 job. Perhaps Daniels could learn under Mariota’s wing for a bit before hitting the ground running.

Over in New England, Mac Jones’s departure via a trade to Jacksonville means Maye is stepping into an organization that can either start veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett or Maye. With first-year head coach Jerod Mayo at the helm, it’s unclear how he’ll approach the start of the 2024 season regarding who will be under center.

Drake Maye becomes the second-highest-drafted quarterback to come out of North Carolina. Mitchell Trubisky was drafted second overall in the 2017 NFL Draft to the Chicago Bears.

Six quarterbacks were taken within the first 12 picks as many teams made surprising decisions.

Back on March 13, 2024, the Falcons signed Kirk Cousins, 35, to a fouryear contract worth $180 million, with $100 million guaranteed money. With Atlanta hoping Cousins can become their franchise quarterback for the next four years, this makes drafting Penix a head-scratching decision. Cousins’ 2023 season resulted in a season-ending achilles injury, perhaps leaving unanswered questions about his health entering the 2024 season.

In the previous two seasons, Atlanta has tended to the offensive side of the ball in the first round of the draft, selecting Drake London and Bijan Robinson, respectively. They did so again in 2024 with Michael Penix, Jr.

The first trade of the day involved the Minnesota Vikings trading up with the New York Jets to select their hopeful franchise quarterback, J.J. McCarthy. Fresh off of winning the National Championship with Michigan, McCarthy is stepping into a quarterback room that already includes former third-overall pick Sam Darnold. McCarthy could sit behind Darnold to open the season but could also contend for the starting job as the year progresses. Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh, who coached McCarthy at Michigan, recently said that McCarthy is the best quarterback in Michigan’s history and the best quarterback in this year’s draft class.

“I think he plays quarterback the best of any quarterback in the draft,” Harbaugh said back in March. “He’s incredible. So, big market, small market. Cold weather, hot weather, it won’t matter.”

The Vikings’ receiving core includes one of the biggest names in the sport, Justin Jefferson, alongside a solid supporting cast of Jordan Addision and T.J. Hockenson.

DRAFT NFL

The shocker of the day was the Atlanta Falcons, who had the eighth overall pick. Their choice was star Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who had a history of shoulder and knee injuries throughout his collegiate career. Most mock drafts projected Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy to be selected above Penix; Atlanta’s decision to select this quarterback seems to have come out of left field.

Minutes later, the Broncos selected Oregon’s Bo Nix with the 12th overall pick. Nix started in 61 games as a quarterback in college, playing three seasons with Auburn and two with Oregon. Nix is stepping into a quarterback room that includes Zach Wilson and Jarrett Stidham as Denver has no clear cut QB1 at the moment. With an abundance of playing experience at the collegiate level, expect Nix to contend early in the season for the starting job in the Mile High City as Zach Wilson is coming off a season of struggles and frustration as a Jet, and Stidham started in only two games last season with Denver.

On day two of the draft (rounds two and three), zero quarterbacks were taken off the board. Notable names still available include Spencer Rattler (South Carolina) and Michael Pratt (Tulane).