Volume 73 Issue 03 by The Highlander- UCR

The Highlander

NEWS

AFSCME picket at Glasgow protests low wages and short staffing

MATA ELANGOVAN Managing Editor

An informational picket was held by American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 3299 on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024. Beginning at 10 a.m., the group gathered outside of Glasgow Residential Restaurant in support of patient care workers and service workers of the University of California (UC).

Danielle Brown, a communications associate for the Local 3299, explained that the purpose of the picket is to inform people in the community what is going on in regards to patient care worker and service worker contract negotiations at the UC system-wide level.

The following day on Oct. 10, a post on AFSCME Local 3299’s X account announced that they are “tired of UC’s badfaith bargaining” and that “UC has refused to provide us with even the basic information we need to bargain our contracts.” As such, the Unfair Labor Practices (ULP) Committee called for a strike vote to occur from Oct. 28 to Oct. 30. The contracts that they would be negotiating would contain information remedying “short-staffing and low pay.”

RADAR

In Defense: ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’

THE FOLLOW-UP TO THE 2019 SMASH HIT “JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX” MAY NOT BE EVERYBODY’S CUP OF TEA BUT IT CERTAINLY DESERVES A TASTE.

AAKIF IQBAL

Contributing Writer

A piece of art goes beyond the bounds of its existence. A song is not just its recording, a film is not just its shots. What completes and officializes a piece of art, the primer that seals any painting, is the audience’s response to it. This is what separates something from being a complete personal expression and being something more. Whether an audience as a majority determines that a work is good or is bad, is out of the artist’s control.

Occasionally, though, what happens to

the response a piece of art gets is not always that it is bad, but sometimes that it is celebrated for the wrong reasons.

Todd Phillips’s hit 2019 film “Joker” was a runaway success, making over $1 billion worldwide on a production budget of $55 million.

When the film won the top prize at the Venice Film Festival, many were quick to claim that the film would inspire realworld violence to take place. Rather than mass riots and anarchy, what resulted from the success of the 2019 film is...

► SEE JOKER PAGE 15

SPORTS

Tailgating Times: Disgusting wait times and lit vibes

AN HONEST REVIEW OF THE FAN EXPERIENCE AT DODGER STADIUM.

TERRY NGUYEN Assistant Sports Editor

If you’re an avid Dodger fan who has gone to multiple events at Dodger Stadium, you’re probably well versed in understanding the fan experience and culture that playoff Dodger games carry. In the case of me and my friend, Francisco, we absolutely don’t fit that mold at all, so we are going to give an honest assessment of the fan experience at Dodger Stadium.

We attended game five of the National League Division Series (NLDS) between the interstate rivals, San Diego Padres (SD) and Los Angeles Dodgers (LAD). It was the first time we ever stepped foot on the historic ballpark grounds, which was fitting because on the same day, two Japanese-born starting pitchers faced off in an elimination game for the first time in MLB history (LAD’s Yoshinobu Yamamoto and SD’s Yu Darvish).

The drive to the stadium from Riverside is unsurprisingly flooded with traffic. We left at 2:55 and around 4:40, we were one

mile from the stadium. This is where the Los Angeles (LA) traffic becomes hectic, as we didn’t move much for the next 45 minutes. After paying 50 dollars for general parking, and more waiting, we finally parked the car around 5:30 p.m., arriving at the game in the second inning.

“Probably the worst traffic I’ve ever been in … the price was fair for parking, but I still believe that it shouldn’t take [almost an hour] to get in,” Francisco said shortly after parking the car. The LA traffic was quite shocking to us, probably due in part to the fact that we’re both from northern California, where traffic is not as bad as it is in LA.

► SEE DODGER STADIUM PAGE 18

NEORAH DAVIS / THE HIGHLANDER

AFSCME LOCAL 3299 HELD A STRIKE IN SUPPORT OF PATIENT CARE AND SERVICE WORKERS.

COURTESY OF WARNER BROS.

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AFSCME picket at Glasgow protests low wages and short staffing

MATA ELANGOVAN Managing Editor

The following day on Oct. 10, a post on AFSCME Local 3299’s X account announced that they are “tired of UC’s bad-faith bargaining” and that “UC has refused to provide us with even the basic information we need to bargain our contracts.” As such, the Unfair Labor Practices (ULP) Committee called for a strike vote to occur from Oct. 28 to Oct. 30. The contracts that they would be negotiating would contain information remedying “short-staffing and low pay.”

On Oct. 8, 2024, the UC released a media statement on AFSCME’s picket and claimed, “We have been bargaining in good faith with the union, presenting meaningful proposals to directly address the union’s requests, including wage increases that, if accepted, would increase AFSCME salaries by 26 percent over the life of the five-year contract. We maintain a positive outlook on our relationship with AFSCME and the current contract negotiations and hope a mutually beneficial contract

agreement can be achieved soon.”

Expanding on the negotiations process, Brown explained that the local is currently at an impasse with the UC. A few points the local is arguing in favor of are wage increases, increased minimum wage, affordable healthcare, housing benefits, and decreased parking rates.

A small crowd of facilities, dining workers, students, and union members gathered outside of Glasgow chanting, “UC greed has got to go” and “UC UC you’re no good! Treat your workers like you should!” Also present at the information picket were California State Sen. Richard Roth representing the 31st State Senate District and Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes representing the 58th Assembly district.

Both Assemblymember Cervantes and Sen. Roth took the time to speak to the crowd present at the picket, reassuring them that they will win their fight. Sen. Roth addressed the crowd and assured, “We have your back. We’ll be there walking with you.”

To share his reason for being present at the picket that day, Sen. Roth explained that he and his office have been supporting Local 3299 for twelve years now: “We stand in solidarity with the dedicated and tireless AFSCME 3299 workers at UC Riverside in their fight for a fair contract. They deserve fair wages, benefits, and improved working conditions and be able to have a roof over their heads and put food on their kitchen table.”

New climate change efforts in Riverside

THE CITY OF RIVERSIDE MOVES TO BOOST LOCAL ECONOMY AND CLIMATE CHANGE EFFORTS.

SANJANA THATTE News Editor

Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson plans to expand advocacy efforts by taking a more hands-on approach to tackling issues such as climate change and economic stimulation in the city of Riverside.

Mayor Lock Dawson explained that she felt that public-private partnerships must be strongly pursued in order for private businesses to realize their economic potential. In a statement to Riveriside’s public information office, Lock Dawson said that “cities can play a vital role in working with private business to accomplish more than either could do separately … This model holds great promise for elevating our economic development efforts.”

The model she is referring to is the P3 mode or a public-private partnership, which according to the United States Department of Transportation, are

“contractual agreements between a public agency and a private entity that allow for greater private participation in the delivery of projects.” This model is often used while having private capital finance government projects and services upfront and then drawing revenue from tax payers and/or users for profit over the course of the contract.

Lock Dawson has been appointed Vice-

Chair for Innovative City Development of the Public-Private Partnerships Task Force in the U.S. Conference of Mayors. She will work with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens who is the Chair of the Task force. This task force is meant to identify “best practices and opportunities for investment utilizing the ‘P3 model’ around the country” while also looking “to influence federal policy to ensure the P3 process is as impactful as

possible at the local level.”

Lock Dawson has shown prior commitments to her goals by leading a panel discussion on P3 agreements at the 92nd annual United States Conference of Mayors in Kansas City.

In regards to climate-centered advocacy, Lock Dawson has joined Climate Mayors. Climate Mayors consists of a bipartisan group of mayors across the US who commit to showing leadership in solving climate change related issues. The group covers issues from increasing the usage of electric vehicles to spending to corporate rulings that may harm climate change efforts. Lock Dawson stated that she was “proud to join the Climate Mayors community exchanging tangible ideas and best practices with some of the country’s leading cities tackling the climate crisis … Together, we can build more resilient communities here in Riverside and throughout the country.”

Helene & Milton: two weeks of hurricanes

HURRICANES HELENE AND MILTON PASS THROUGH THE SOUTHEAST COAST LEAVING HUNDREDS WITH PROPERTY DAMAGE AND POWER OUTAGES.

DINARA GODAGE Assistant News Editor

On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene passed through six southeastern states: Georgia, Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, and North Carolina, according to Forbes, North Carolina faced the most damage. The stormtouched down in the Big Bend area of the Florida Gulf Coast as a category four hurricane. Hurricane Helene has torn down power lines with gusts of winds and flooding, damaging property from the Gulf Coast to the North Carolina mountains.

The thunderstorms on the east side of Helene created six confirmed tornadoes all on Sept. 27. They began at 6:04 a.m. with the Georgetown Tornado creating winds up to 65 miles per hour (mph) and stretched 2.42 miles in 2 minutes. Nearly 50 minutes later, at 6:53 am, the Hagley Landing Tornado followed a 5.5 mile path in 6 minutes with unknown wind speeds. At 7:30 a.m. 4 minutes after the Bay Road Tornado was the the Centenary Tornado that reached 65 mph winds and went 6.67 miles. Finally, are the two Garland Tornadoes . Tthe first one was ata few hours after the Centenary Tornado at 11:17 am, . It spanned 4.98 miles and had wind gusts of 75 mph. The Its second Garland tornado began as the first one ended at 11:22 a.m. reaching 95 mph winds across 4.86 miles, ending at 11:30 am. All of the tornadoes were labeled moderate or minor, apart from the Hagley Landing Tornado which had an unknown level.

CNN deems Hurricane Helene the second-deadliest hurricane in the U.S. mainland in the past 50 years, including Katrina from 2005 that killed 1,833 people. The current death tolls per state is as follows: North Carolina, 117, South Carolina, 48, Georgia, 33, Florida, 20, Tennessee, 12 and Virginia, 2. Regarding Buncombe County, North Carolina, Sheriff Quentin Miller expressed that about 200 residents are either missing or stranded as of Oct. 4th.

With the impact of the hurricane, officials are working on a variety of recovery efforts. The Blue Ridge Parkway, a 400-mile-long parkway from North Carolina to Virginia, will be closed for the foreseeable future. Over 1,300 counties have sent emergency responders to assist with damages, the Fire Department of New York being one of them. Additionally, the power outages have impacted more than 460,000 residents in 5 states more than a week after the storm. Of the 6 states, Tennessee residents have not been impacted as much however, South Carolina has the largest number with 170,648 customers without electricity. North Carolina has 144,711, Georgia with 131,262, Florida with 3,628, and Virginia with 3,594. Due to this quantity of power outages and property damage, the Transportation Department has sent emergency funds of $100 million to North Carolina for the roads and bridges.

On Wednesday Oct. 9, about two weeks after Helene, Hurricane Milton made landfall near Siesta Key, Florida as a category 3 hurricane with 120 mph winds. Milton moved across Florida then out to the Atlantic Ocean through Thursday, Oct. 10. Milton killed 16 people and left over 2 million Florida residents without power on Friday, Oct. 11.

Leading up to his landfall on Tuesday Oct. 8, Milton was seen by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites approaching the Gulf Coast of Florida with sustained winds of 180 mph. At this point, Milton was a category 5 hurricane.

Rescue teams have conducted over 4,200 rescues and assists, and of the 37 hurricanes to strike Florida since 1950, only Wilma in 2005 gained speed faster than Milton. President Biden plans to visit the impacted areas in Florida in the coming weeks.

NEORAH DAVIS / THE HIGHLANDER

Updates on the UCSA with ASUCR

On Oct. 9, 2024, the Associated Students of the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR) received an update from Vice President External Affairs (VPEA) Vivian Herrera from the last University of California Student Association (UCSA) board meeting.

The first update was on Basic Needs priorities across the UC schools. VPEA Herrera, explained that David Rubin at the UC Office of the President (UCOP) is welleducated on basic needs. During the board meeting it was announced that about 68% of UCR students are unhoused or food insecure. VPEA Herrera shared further statistics for other UC system schools and explained that a current goal is to have more professors add basic needs information to their syllabi to increase awareness of programs such as CalFresh.

In addition to basic needs for food, housing policy was also discussed. VPEA Herrera explained that firstyear students no longer have prior-

ity housing, which makes it difficult for students to manage other basic needs such as food. Students who are already facing food insecurity tend to struggle more with finding affordable housing than those who are not food insecure.

The College of Humanities, Arts, & Social Sciences (CHASS) Senator Tuifua opened the discussion on housing by bringing up the current lawsuit UCR is facing from the City of Riverside. UCR is being sued for the rapid increase in construction causing air, noise, and sound pollution, as well as other issues. VPEA Herrera expressed interest in learning more about the problems students face and the reasoning behind rent pricing.

The final topic covered in the UCSA meeting was ethnic studies education for high school students. The plan is separated into two areas, A-G and H. The A-G plan is meant to educate students on unbiased history and have an understanding of ethnic studies prior to coming

to college. Some districts have already moved to have programs such as these. It has been seen that ethnic minority students come disengaged when they are not being represented in content they are learning about. This group of students also happens to be the most marginalized due to housing crises and food insecurity, making them more likely to have lower grade point averages (GPA) due to lack of basic needs as well as lack of diverse education.

Area H covers ethnic studies courses that are directly commenting on racism. VPEA Herrera went through a brief summary of the history leading up to the A-G/H education concept, and also expressed that the next steps are having President Drake sign off after it is approved by the Academic Council and UC Regents.

The Senate meeting concluded with School of Public Policy Senator Jimenez explaining the three committees she joined and President Pro-Tempore Haidar explain-

ing her bill on health care products and resources being more available on campus. She is also working on creating a graphic to make writing and proposing legislation easier for both senators and the general public.

During Ex-Officio Reports, Vice President of Marketing and Promotions Ashley Estrella ratified her staff positions for Head of Staff and three Photographers and Videographers with a 12-0-0 vote. The Executive Vice President Naia Pizzaro ratified a Senate Parliamentarian and Head of Staff with a vote of 120-0.

CHASS Senator Carter Anderson, CHASS Senator Nathan Baw, CHASS Senator Ryan Jun-Min Choi, College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences Senator Mitchell Wei and School of Education Senator Adam Ramirez were not present at this senate meeting.

■ H

DINARA GODAGE Assistant News Editor

California’s new gun control measures are a step in the right direction

GOV. GAVIN NEWSOM SIGNS SEVERAL NEW PIECES OF LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE GUN SAFETY IN CALIFORNIA AND PROTECT STUDENTS.

ALEX KUPISIEWICZ Contributing Writer

With the start of a new school year, the resurgence of an issue no one is surprised to hear about is in the news again — gun violence. There were 33 individual incidents of gun violence in schools in September of 2024, particularly the recent incident at Apalachee High School in Georgia where four people were killed and nine others were injured. JD Vance, the Republican Vice Presidential nominee, shared that he believes school shootings are simply a “fact of life” and that improved security in schools is the answer.

However, other politicians like Gov. Newsom have taken a better approach toward gun violence by signing several new state gun control measures. These bills include restrictions on who can legally purchase a firearm, what weapons are allowed to be sold and increased protection for those experiencing domestic abuse. These new restrictions are a step in the right direction toward further protecting Californians.

In one new restriction, a judge can implement a gun violence restraining order based on evidence of stalking, animal cruelty or threats of violence, when previously it would require a felony charge. Additionally, a dismissal of any misdemeanor charge on account of mental incompetence will also result in the offender being blocked from purchasing a firearm in the future.

These restrictions make everyone safer by keeping weapons out of the hands of those prone to violence or not mentally competent enough to handle them. For example, statistics show that states that require background checks for criminal records before purchase have an average of 10% lower homicide rates. By creating stricter orders for background checks, the risk of homicide is reduced and law enforcement is better able to track potential shooters.

Gov. Newsom also passed a measure to lessen the spread of difficult to track “ghost guns” or guns without registered serial numbers that are acquired through online build kits, sold when they were set to be destroyed or can even be 3D printed.

Newsom’s new measure will require law enforcement agencies to prohibit their contracted third parties from selling firearms meant to be destroyed. Not only will this make it harder for an offender to acquire a weapon, but it also makes it easier for law enforcement to identify the weapon and the perpetrator in the case of an attack.

In another bill signed at the same time, Newsom approved a regulation so that law enforcement who have been perpetrators of domestic violence will be more likely to lose their right to carry a gun. Law enforcement are also now required to take firearms from any perpetrators of domestic violence. The decision to disallow perpetrators to carry a gun lowers the risk for victims of domestic violence, therefore lowering the risk of gun violence for society as a whole if the perpetrator is a law enforcement officer. This is a very important protection for victims of domestic violence as over half of the incidents of homicides on women by a partner were committed with a firearm.

Another one of Newsom’s new policies safeguards the mental health of California students. “The Safe and Prepared Schools Act” bans the use of fake gunfire and fake

blood in active shooter drills in public schools. Although this kind of ban should never have to exist in the first place, it is important because fake gunfire and blood are traumatizing and don’t help students in any way during a school shooter drill.

For example, studies show an increase of 25% in mental health prescriptions for elementary to high school-aged students who live near a fatal school shooting. Most of these medications are antidepressants or anti-anxiety prescriptions, which are commonly used to treat trauma. This data clearly shows the extreme mental health effects gun violence has on students in the United States and with gun violence on the rise, there is no need to actively contribute to this trauma by using fake gunfire and blood.

Overall, while these new bills are definitely a step in the right direction, there is certainly more that needs to be done to ensure the safety of citizens nationwide. California is ahead of federal law on this issue, but that still is not enough. Gun ownership laws and licensing need to be more restrictive at the federal level to protect the country and its students.

CALIFORNIA’S LAWSUIT AGAINST TIKTOK SHOWS THAT PARENTS AND TEENAGERS NEED TO PROTECT THEMSELVES ONLINE RATHER THAN WAIT FOR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS TO DO SOMETHING. ■ H

California’s TikTok lawsuit is a call for young users to stay safe online

CECILE DIROLL Opinions Editor

On October 8, California Attorney General (AG) Rob Bonta filed a lawsuit against TikTok, accusing the social media platform of deliberately targeting young users to its app with addictive and dangerous features.

Leading the charge for 13 states, AG Bonta alleges TikTok violated California’s Unfair Competition and False Advertising Laws — that prohibit dishonest marketing and fraudulent business practices — by collecting young users’ data and misleading the public regarding the app’s “addictive features” and “harmful content.” The lawsuit seeks “significant penalties” from TikTok, including an injunction and monetary damages against the platform.

The AG’s lawsuit is another attempt in the U.S. government’s growing list of actions to regulate social media companies like TikTok and protect users from online dangers. In April, President Biden signed bipartisan legislation giving Beijing-based parent company ByteDance nine months to sell TikTok or face nationwide prohibition in the U.S. The company is challenging the law in court and continues to operate in the U.S. unabated.

While the federal government’s actions against TikTok are primarily focused on its foreign intelligence threat, the state’s lawsuit centers on the platform’s addictive features, which the AG believe are fueling a rising mental health crisis among young people.

An increasing body of studies, including social media companies’ internal research, supports the notion that excessive social media use can have harmful mental health impacts, including expanded rates

of anxiety, depression, self-harm and suicide. A 2024 University of California, San Francisco study, for instance, found that extended screen time for preteens increases the likelihood that they will develop symptoms of severe mental illness, which is especially concerning when 67% of 13 to 17-year-olds use TikTok and adolescents spend an average of 3.5 hours a day on social media.

Despite mounting state and federal pressure, including hundreds of lawsuits, social media companies have been slow to alter the most dangerous aspects of their platforms or install meaningful safeguards for users under 18. This inaction underscores the critical importance the teen demographic has for social media’s bottom line: who will do anything for profit — even if that means harming their youngest users.

According to internal documents from an ongoing lawsuit against TikTok, company executives were recorded “speaking candidly about a host of dangers for children,” including safeguards — or

rather the lack of protections — for user time management on the app. The TikTok managers commented that the “goal is not to reduce the time spent” but to “contribute to daily active users [DAU] and retention.”

Simply put, social media executives want their users to spend more time on their apps because it increases their profits.

AG Bonta also referenced this point at a San Francisco news conference, saying that TikTok has “chosen profit over the health of our children” and that “youth addiction is a key and central pillar to TikTok’s business model.”

So, what can be done to ensure teens don’t fall victim to these platforms’ negative influences while the powerful social media companies battle with the government and the courts?

Earlier this year, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy provided an important suggestion to this question: requiring that social media companies include warning labels on their platforms that would explicitly inform users of safety issues, raise awareness about mental health risks

and possibly change behavior.

Like other dangerous and addictive products, such as tobacco and alcohol, social media needs to start being treated as a health risk with real dangers to mental health. Adding warning labels to social media platforms would allow parents and younger users to knowingly accept the potential risks of engaging with these sites as currently designed.

Schools can and should also offer counseling and information on the dangers of social media to teens. Much like sex and drug education, which for years have been taught in schools from a harm reduction perspective, the hazards of social media should be provided in a practical, nonjudgmental way to teens to minimize mental health risks.

Ultimately, because children cannot be expected to understand all the complexities of social media and because technology has increasingly become a more significant part of young lives, it is really up to parents to monitor their children’s use of social media and help them establish healthy behaviors online. This would include monitoring screen time and helping them develop self-discipline with social media at a young age, therefore encouraging them to set boundaries and make the right choices on their own when they are older.

Social media companies like TikTok and others must cease exploiting and harming young users and deceiving the public about the dangers of their platforms. However, until that happens, teens and parents need to fully understand the risks and consequences of engaging with these platforms and take proactive actions to protect themselves.

COURTESY OF FLICKR

SENNA OMAR Editor-in-Chief

Agency at the ballot box

WHY I AM VOTING FOR DR. JILL STEIN!

Growing up as a Palestinian Muslim woman in post 9/11 America, I have only ever known of a government that is unkind to my people. Almost every politician has made a career out of portraying Muslim and Arab victims as the political enemy, finding a way to vilify these oppressed people.

In the safety and security of my home, my Arab and Muslim identity is celebrated. However, outside this safe haven, we are the villains; our only crime is existing. Much of my conscious knowledge of Presidential elections is based on choosing the lesser of two evil candidates. In a country, where since 2001, hating my people and blatant racism of Muslims and Arabs in the public eye is not only tolerated, but endorsed by both political parties, it is hard to determine who to vote for when no one has my best interests at heart.

The damaging rhetoric was evident when Former President Barack Obama spewed lies, claiming during his campaign to be a pro-Palestine candidate and then signing a $30-billion aid package to Israel. Later on, the Muslim Bans championed by Former President Donald Trump, exacerbated the racism. And now, in the midst of the current administration’s relentless support for Isreali’s genocidal campaign, not only in Palestine, but in the greater

Middle East, third-party candidates are looking more and more appealing to Muslim and Arab voters who are sick of backseating their interests in Presidential elections.

Over the past eight years, Democratic policy has moved so far right, that both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have almost identical campaigns. The two candidates have more policies in common than they differ on, with both continuing their support for Israel and maintaining similar views on fracking. Instead of focusing on appealing to left and far-left voters, who are uninterested in either political party, the Harris campaign has taken to attacks on Green Party candidate Dr. Jill Stein, crediting her participation in the Presidential race for the reason Donald Trump won office in 2016.

Dr. Jill Stein, standing in opposition to these two political titans, is running for President with the interests of the people at heart. Campaigning on a platform of “people,” “planet” and “peace,” Dr. Jill Stein is the only presidential candidate, “Demand[ing] an immediate ceasefire in Israel and Palestine, an end to the blockade of Gaza, immediate humanitarian and medical relief and release of hostages and political prisoners.”

With a campaign financed by the people and void of support from The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) — a sentiment lacking in almost every politician in America — Dr. Stein has proven her commitment to changing the nature of American politics.

For comparison, during their time in Congress, President Joe Biden received over $4,223,393 in funding for AIPAC and Vice President Harris received over $530,629 in AIPAC funding.

Dr. Stein and her running mate, Professor Butch Warren, promise a changed government to the American people; stating, “[The] Empire knows its days are numbered because we are rising up and we are unstoppable together and we are offering specifically what the American people are desperate for … The need for change had never been so urgent and the possibility of that change has never been so clear and present and within our reach.”

Over the past year, many people have had a window view into the reality of daily life for Palestinians, and they are sick of seeing their tax dollars wasted on displacing innocent people whose only crime is existing. Arabs and Muslims are sick of living in a country where killing us is normalized; where our bodies are seen as disposable; where our lives are seen as expandable; where photos of dead children in piles of rubble is a normal Tuesday viewing.

Voting is the only way for ordinary people to have power, and in a country so desperate to silence the screams of protesters that echo from the East to the West calling for a free Palestine, it is only natural that our calls should carry through to the ballot box.

EMILY MATA / THE HIGHLANDER

Harris’ stance on the Middle East conflict may be its downfall

ALIENATING HER YOUNGER VOTERS MAY BE HARRIS’ CRUCIAL MISTAKE THIS ELECTION.

ALEX KUPISIEWICZ Contributing Writer

There are many issues in the minds of voters as election season is in full swing, but only one big issue has been pushed aside time and time again by the candidates and news sources. The swiftly growing Middle Eastern conflict has been ignored in favor of discussions on the economy and outrageous claims about Haitian immigrants in the United States (US), but it may be the deciding factor in the outcome of this election.

Vice President Harris’ campaign’s repeated emphasis on the importance of this election and the threat of Former President Trump’s winning is a very real concern, which is why Harris needs to reevaluate her stance on this issue as soon as possible.

Since the Middle Eastern conflict has rejoined discussions in mainstream media due to the attack on Oct. 7 and the following acceleration in Israeli aggression, college students have been on the front line of Palestinian advocacy in the U.S. These students largely make up the age group President Biden counted on to win the 2020 election.

The younger generation, for the most part, is more sympathetic to Palestinians in this conflict and are more aligned with left-leaning viewpoints. This means that this group of people, who are focused on the news coming out of the Middle East, are very aware and concerned about the role their government is playing in the unjust attacks being carried out in Palestine.

Many of these voters have already started mak-

ing their point to the Harris campaign directly through protests at her campaign events and through the unanimous decision to vote “undecided” in the Democratic primaries as a form of protest. More than 700,000 Americans made this decision on their ballot earlier this year.

Plenty of Democratic voters are still following the plan to vote “uncommitted” until Harris promises to cease arms sales to Israel. This is where the threat lies for Harris because the Democratic votes are split between “uncommitted,” voting for Harris or deciding to vote third party.

Dr. Jill Stein alone has won over many voters who are concerned about the outcome of the Middle East following this election. Stein, a Green Party nominee for the Presidential race, leans into the endorsement received by Muslim-led political groups by stating that she would end arms deals with Israel shortly after taking office if she were to be elected. This Stein endorsement alone poses a danger to the Harris campaign, as voters work to abandon Harris specifically.

This poses a problem not just for those who are worried about the idea of another Trump term, but also for those already in the Middle East. It has become common knowledge for U.S. voters that reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, immigrant rights and women’s rights will be at risk in the event that another Republican takes office.

However, Palestinians fear a Trump Presidency as much as other targeted groups in the U.S. Many Trump supporters and voters have been calling for an end to the military and monetary aid to Israel and Ukraine, calling for an “America First” policy on

spending, which would effectively isolate the U.S. from its allies. Pulling back that financial support would be beneficial in some cases by scaling back the weaponry being sent and used on civilian targets in the Middle East. But, it would also leave Ukraine on its own for defense.

This opposes Harris’ plan of seemingly continuing aid to both countries. Then there is also the risk that comes with the close ties Trump seemingly holds with President Vladimir Putin, not to mention his self-declared admiration of the man, which has likely fueled his own plans of “being a dictator on day one”.

Overall, a Trump Presidency poses a legitimate risk to the whole world, considering the financial and political power the position holds on the global stage. The risk of a Trump Presidency is not one to take lightly, and the Harris campaign has continually claimed it is a threat to democracy. However, the actions following her words don’t quite add up as Harris refuses to budge on the issue of the Middle Eastern conflict.

Without adjusting her stance on this issue, Harris risks losing a huge number of voters in a race where her opponent holds steadfast followers. This isn’t the kind of dangerous chance she can reasonably take in this election and if the result this fall ends with a Republican win, the blame cannot be placed on voters who have made their wants and intentions very clear.

If Harris wants to ensure her win this November, one surefire way to gain voters would be to change her policy on arms deals to Israel, quickly and meaningfully.

Features SCOTTY-SCOPES:

Navigating college life by the stars

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22):

Libra, you’re in for a stellar week with the Four of Wands cheering you on! It’s the perfect time to tie up those group projects or actually get some studying done at that study session you planned. Call up your squad for some quality group grind — your knack for pulling everyone together is really shining right now. You might just be the MVP of organizing group chats and study meet-ups at the library.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19):

Capricorn, with the Eight of Swords reversed this week, it’s time to ditch the blindfold and spot the unreal standards you’ve set for yourself — like that sky-high GPA you’re chasing. Give yourself a break, maybe even shrug off that tough quiz you didn’t ace. There’s freedom in letting go a bit, and honestly, it feels like a stress detox.

Aries (March 21 – April 19):

Aries, this week finds you at a crossroads, much like deciding between starting your term paper or starting another series. The Two of Swords is all about balance. So set a timer for both. Mastering the art of multitasking could be the secret to keeping both your grades and your weekend vibes alive.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22):

Cancer, this week the reversed King of Cups is a heads-up not to let your feelings run the show — like picking a new major just because of one rough grade. Try to keep cool in your group projects and discussions. Your natural empathy is a big plus when you keep it balanced. Just remember, finding the middle ground is everything!

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21):

This week kicks off with The Devil reversed, signaling it’s time for you to break free from those late-night cram sessions and chains of procrastination. Take control away from those vending machine snacks and endless nights of Netflix. Embrace this new liberation — maybe even see the morning side of 9 A.M. classes. Keep an eye on healthier habits, Scorpio. They’re your secret weapon against upcoming exams.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18):

- Reversed

You must be feeling a bit lost this week, like when your GPS glitches on the way to that new coffee shop. With the Two of Wands reversed, it’s totally fine not to have all the answers right now. Use this time to explore different paths or maybe just discover a new favorite spot to hit the books. Sometimes, the best ideas pop up when you least expect them, Aquarius.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20):

The Three of Swords hints at potential heartaches or setbacks — like that group project where you end up doing all the work. But take heart; it’s also a prime opportunity to clear the air and lay down some boundaries. Taurus, it’s totally okay to pass on another group assignment if you’re the only one pulling the weight.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22):

of Wands - Reversed

Leo, it’s like the Seven of Wands reversed out there — you’re swamped and everyone wants a piece of your time. Between group projects and social hangouts, it’s totally fine to take a step back. Try to prioritize what’s on your plate and delegate where possible. Remember, guarding your time isn’t selfish. It’s essential for keeping your sanity intact.

UNLOCK THE SECRETS TO SMOOTHLY SAIL THROUGH YOUR ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL SEAS THIS WEEK!

SRIJA BHASHYAM Contributing Writer

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21):

This week, the Page of Wands is fueling your natural enthusiasm and curiosity. Dive into new clubs or courses with gusto, Sagittarius. Your adventurous spirit might just lead you to discover a new passion — or at least help you find a new study buddy. Keep that energy high. You’re just one brainstorm session away from your next big idea.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20):

As the Page of Pentacles rolls in, it’s crunch time for your studies and budgeting. Pisces, resist that spontaneous snack run — both your wallet and GPA will seriously thank you later. Keep your eyes peeled during lectures, a surprise might just be hidden in your next lecture’s fine print!

Gemini (May 21 – June 20):

This week, the Three of Pentacles is all about teamwork making the dream work. Whether you’re syncing up with a lab partner or joining a new study group, your contributions are going to be key. You might find that explaining your notes to others not only helps them but also clears up some things for you too. It’s a win-win situation for everyone, especially you, Gemini!

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22):

of Pentacles - Reversed

The King of Pentacles reversed is signaling a bit of a mismatch this week between your goals and what you’re currently juggling. You might be taking on too many credits or extracurriculars, Virgo. Consider cutting back a little to better focus on what truly aligns with your long-term ambitions. Remember, sometimes less really is more, especially when it comes to managing your to-do list.

Four of Wands

The Devil - Reversed

Page of Wands

Eight of Swords - Reversed

Two of Wands

Page of Pentacles

Two of Swords

Three of Swords

Three of Pentacles

King of Cups - Reversed

Seven

King

How to behave in a college classroom

HERE’S A GUIDE ON HOW NOT TO BE THAT STUDENT. WELCOME TO CLASSROOM ETIQUETTE 101.

STELA NOELLE ABASTA Contributing Writer

There have been too many times to count where a complete stranger has gotten on my nerves during one of my classes. There have also been too many times to count where my friends have told me about a complete stranger getting on their nerves during one of their classes. Based on my and my peers’ observations, I have been able to compile a list of all the things that have been eating us alive since the school year started. Take this as a guide on what not to do in a college classroom setting and why.

P.S. As surprising as it may be, this article is not only for first year students. Although these are good tips for first-years as to what not to do when you’re going into a college setting for the first time, I know a lot of second-years and upperclassmen also need to learn from this. So all of you better listen up!

If you’re going to sleep in class, don’t snore.

I get it. School has just started, and I’m already tired of it, too. But for the respect of the people around you, if you know you snore when you sleep, try not to sleep in class. Your sleep health is important, and it’s okay to miss a lecture because of it — it’s not like you were going to pay attention to it while you were there anyways. It’s alright to go home and prioritize yourself. Don’t be a distraction if you can help it.

Get a room.

I hate public displays of affection, and the summer has made me forget how absolutely PDA-ridden college campuses are — the University of California, Riverside (UCR) is no exception. This applies to both in a classroom and just on campus in general. As someone in a long distance relationship, I was afraid this was just me being jealous of couples that get to go to school together, but according to others, that is not the case — a lot of couples are really just wilding out here.

Being intimate in public completely goes against the definition of what being intimate is. I feel like intimacy with your partner(s) is supposed to be special, and doing private acts in public makes those intimate moments lose their value. It seems like it’s no longer love and rather just lust at that point. Nobody wants to experience that, and nobody wants you to share those moments with the rest of us. There is a time and a place for everything, and I promise you that time and place is not a Bourns Hall classroom at 2 p.m. I really do get it — you’re in love. That’s beautiful. That’s lovely. But that does not allow you to make out in front of the bus stop.

Don’t be a know it all — I promise that you don’t know more than the professor. There are so many bright students that go to UCR; there is no doubt about that. That’s why you don’t have to show off that you’re one of them. I understand that you may just want attention; you want someone to acknowledge your knowledge. Howev-

er, you don’t have to interrupt the professor after every slideshow just to flex. Nobody wants to know that you still remember your AP Chemistry from high school. Stop asking about advanced topics that we haven’t covered yet just because you want everyone to know you’re smart. If your peers wanted to know that, they would look at your LinkedIn. I’m not saying don’t ask questions, but if you have questions or comments that could be said during office hours or you think it may not be the most helpful during lecture when people are trying to learn the current content, keep it to yourself. We’re going over the syllabus on a Monday at 8 a.m. You do not need to be asking about the chapter we’re covering in week five. Be for real.

You are not funny. You were never funny. You will never be funny.

Leave class clowns in high school. There have been too many students that think they’re absolutely hilarious for shouting out purposefully incorrect answers or trying to joke around with the professor in the middle of class like this is the audience participation section of a comedy show. It’s not. Kudos to you if you’re just naturally a teacher’s pet or you’re trying to kiss up to get into their lab. Whatever, that’s fine, we don’t care. Just don’t subject the rest of us to your performance.

If you’re going to talk a lot, don’t be loud. Or don’t talk at all. That would be nice, too.

This is pretty straightforward, but a lot

of people still don’t get it. Yes, a lecture hall is big and it’s easy to hide yourself amongst the rows of faces to gossip. The professor will probably not call you out if you were talking, but for the sake of the people around you, whisper at the very least.

Wear deodorant. I don’t have a funny tagline for this one. Just please wear deodorant.

As a psychology major, I didn’t even think that this was an issue in college. However, from the point of view of a student on the pre-med track, I have never had such bad smells enter my nostrils since the fifth grade when everyone was just starting puberty. I know it’s been hot recently, but pack an extra deodorant and/or body spray in your bag if you know you’re going to be sweating up a storm. Everybody has body odor — I’m not at all trying to judge or shame anyone. I just wanted to give some friendly advice and ask a small request of you. I think if all of you did this, the classroom would be a better place. Warm regards, a STEM student.

If you don’t want to be the “friend group celebrity” or have people loathe you the instant they see you step into the lecture hall, you should heed my advice. However, I cannot change how you act just with one article, but even if you don’t take any of my words to heart, this was cathartic for me to write. So thank you for reading and letting me share some of my classroom pet peeves with you.

NORM’S NOOK

SPOTLIGHT

Picnic Hill

This, and a sandwich. Picnic Hill, romantic in nature and beautiful in sight, is our university’s ticket to a relaxing outdoorsy experience in the midst of academic demands and stressful student endeavors. Located up a short trail between the Genomics building and Boyden Laborato ries, Picnic Hill’s rich native biodiversity and grassy lawn accompanied by colorful picnic tables sets the scene for a charming date or some alone time with just the right lunch. While this hidden gem is just as old as campus itself, Picnic Hill underwent an endearing transformation in 2013, cater ing to anyone looking for the next place to coin as their “spot.” Fall into the beauty of Picnic Hill and consider it as your next study or date destination!

STUDENT POLL

Question: What artist would you lie about having shown up on your Spotify wrapped?

Beyoncé

Phish

Brown Noise

Charli XCX

Kali Uchis

Vanessa N.

Noah M.

Emily M.

Carlie S.

Aarshvi S.

GABRIELA GALVAN Assistant Features Editor

GRAPHICS BY LAYNA LAPIKAS / THE HIGHLANDER

MATA ELANGOVAN / THE HIGHLANDER

MUPPET MANIA

32. What Groot would say if he was a bus

35. _____-con (aka retroactive continuity), e.g. “Rogue One” in the Star Wars saga

36. Juliet, to Romeo; or, the moon’s opposite 37. Controversial politician Marjorie Taylor _____

38. Painters, sculptures, musicians, etc.

41. To combine a titrant and a titrand

42. One who keens

43. Campbell’s, or any soup’s, container

44. Restaurant calculation, usually 15-20%

of the United

45. How Mario gets over something: leapa; how Mario plays a

By Natalie Dahl Features eDitor

guitar: _____

46. Plural of oxalis

49. 26-Across’ friend who loves to bang on the drums

51. Ad-_____

52. Duck’s home

54. Misfortunes or sicknesses

56. Caterpillar hairs (or eates in reverse)

60. Open a bottle of beer

62. Tiny (not shrimpy) friend of 26-Across: “_____ the King _____”

64. Saintly quality or devoutness

65. Smell, taste, touch, see,

66. How lots of young people like to enjoy their coffee

67. Where sailors usually are

68. Poker pot starter

69. Lays down the lawn Down

1. Arbage cans are ross and

2. Operatic solo

3. “Oh, my _____!”

4. Still on the market

5. Hollywood special FX

6. Cornstarch brand with a yellow container and blue lid

7. Slang for a football

8. Your personal fashion sense

9. Educated guess on an amount, a price, etc.; Abbr.

10. Double-crosser

11. What’s running away from Nicki Minaj in “Super Bass,” plural

Edible root of the taro

Musical marking with no sound; or, to take it easy

Everyone’s favorite yellow, honey-loving bear

One of a kind

Italian deli lunchmeat

A place to shop, often follows “K” 28. Primary planet in Dune, without one “R” and the “I” 29. Typical French headwear 30. Spoken words or vocal sounds 31. School transportation vehicle 33. Loosen, as in shoelaces

Oozes 39. What flood waters do to the land; or, another word for overwhelm or engulf

18-wheeler truck

Paycheck deduction

Controversial booktok author _____ Hoover

Speech impediment

Flower commonly called candytuft

Top dog

Insect stage in between larva and adult

“I’m working _____!”

Small argument between lovers 57. _____ Bell or Del _____

Wowed

Brings to a close 61. Professional Yachting Association; Abbr. 63. Before, in poetry

Trader Joe’s treasure trove

IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING WITH NAVIGATING TRADER JOE’S, HERE IS A LIST OF MY FAVORITE HIDDEN GEMS.

Ranging from frozen appetizers to fresh foods, Trader Joe’s offers over 4,000 items. Here is a list of my personal favorites to help you pick your groceries during your next errand:

Frozen Foods

The steamed chicken soup dumplings are a great option. They are extremely easy to prepare: simply microwave the package or steam the dumplings in a steam basket until they are ready. These dumplings are delicious as the hot soup filling contains a lot of flavor. Next time you are in Trader Joe’s, don’t hesitate to add a box to your cart!

Another delicious frozen item from this store is the Maître Pierre Tarte d’Alsace. Topped with ham, onions and shredded cheese, this pizza-style quiche has a way of transporting you to the French region of Alsace.

Snacks

Some great crackers to try are the organic naan crackers. These are delicious on their own and dipped in both the recommended dips later in the article.

Other great crackers to try are the fig and olive crisps. These are delicious dipped in cream cheese or paired with charcuterie and cheese and are great as appetizers as well.

A great midnight snack that Trader Joe’s offers are the peanut butter filled pretzel nuggets. The peanut butter and pretzel flavors paired together are delicious.

An amazing sweet snack to try are the chocolate chip cookie dunkers. They are delicious to snack on during a movie or

while doing homework and are even better when dipped in a nice cold glass of milk.

Dips

The tzatziki dip is an amazing dip containing plain yogurt, cucumber and dill. It is delicious paired with crackers or the Trader Joe’s Indian Style Flat Bread. It is also great to snack on when you feel hungry as it’s surprisingly filling.

My favorite dip, however, is the Everything But The Bagel greek style yogurt dip. Made with greek yogurt, cream cheese and the Everything But The Bagel seasoning, this dip is absolutely delicious. Dipping the Everything But The Bagel crackers or the savory thin mini crackers in this spread makes for a delicious afternoon snack.

Another great dip is the dijon mustard. This dip reminds me of french mustard and is delicious paired with red meat or sausages.

Breads

The first three breads in this list are delicious baked in the oven. The outside of the bread becomes crispy and delicious while the inside of it is soft and warm.

The first one of these breads is the ciabatta demi-baguette. This bread is flavorful and works well with sandwiches and toasts.

Another bread is the organic French baguette. I love this bread because it reminds me of real French bread when it is baked in the oven. The crispy and golden exterior is delicious and the interior is fluffy, soft and airy.

Another bread that I love from Trader Joe’s is the olive fougasse. It comes in four connected pieces which can be ripped apart and baked individually in the oven.

The fruity and strong taste of olives mixes perfectly with the bread.

The next two items are sweeter products that may be my favorite breakfast items.

The first one is the braided and sliced brioche which comes great when toasted and topped with your favorite jam, honey, almond butter etc… It is a staple in my Trader Joe’s breakfast items.

The next one, which may be my favorite, is Trader Joe’s chocolate croissants. My favorite way to eat these is to toast them in the toaster (make sure to take them out before they burn). This melts the chocolate and provides a slightly crispy exterior which compliments the buttery taste perfectly.

Teas

The first tea that I really enjoyed was the earl grey tea which is described as a

blend of black tea and bergamot oil. If you like black tea, this one is extremely flavorful and it is one of my favorites.

Recently, however, I have really started to like the sweetened matcha green tea latte mix. If you like matcha lattes, congratulations, you can finally make them at home! It is extremely simple to make and the instructions are directly on the box, just top off your mixture with milk.

Extra shoutout to the Everything But The Bagel seasoning which is the perfect topping to any meal, in my opinion. It is a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried onion, salt and dried garlic and it is a seasoning that is delicious on eggs, avocado toast, bagels (obviously), etc…

I hope that this list of products helps you on your next grocery outing!

NOLA PERIFEL Staff Writer

NEORAH DAVIS / THE HIGHLANDER

Radar

‘Joker : Folie à Deux’ IN DEFENSE

THE FOLLOW-UP TO THE 2019 SMASH HIT “JOKER:

AAKIF IQBAL Contributing Writer

Apiece of art goes beyond the bounds of its existence. A song is not just its recording, a film is not just its shots. What completes and officializes a piece of art, the primer that seals any painting, is the audience’s response to it. This is what separates something from being a complete personal expression and being something more. Whether an audience as a majority determines that a work is good or is bad, is out of the artist’s control.

Occasionally, though, what happens to the response a piece of art gets is not always that it is bad, but sometimes that it is celebrated for the wrong reasons.

Todd Phillips’s hit 2019 film “Joker” was a runaway success, making over $1 billion worldwide on a production budget of $55 million.

When the film won the top prize at the Venice Film Festival, many were quick to claim that the film would inspire real-world violence to take place. Rather than mass riots and anarchy, what resulted from the success of the 2019 film is that it became co-opted online as people identified with the titular Joker, played by Joaquin Phoenix, saying he was “literally me.” Except the embrace of the character was not because of the movie’s depictions of mental illness, but because of its depictions of Arthur Fleck or Joker as a societal outcast.

In response to this co-opting, the idea for the second Joker film became clear. It would be a musical and it would star Lady Gaga as the infamous love interest to the Joker, Harley Quinn, or Lee Quinzel as she’s known in the movie.

Though the footage in the film is the same footage seen in the trailer, many were shocked to see that the 2-hour and 18-minute sequel plays more as a punishment than as a piece of popcorn entertainment.

Already the film had to jump over the hurdle of being a musical that exists in the year 2024, whereby the production of musicals is at an alltime low. None were prepared for the film to be a courtroom drama that put Fleck on trial. Lee, among many other people who attend and tune in to his trial, are enamored with Fleck’s reputation as the Joker and the “TV movie” that was made after the six killings he committed in the first film.

“Folie à Deux” itself becomes a trial of who the Joker really is and what he really stands for, paralleling many shots from the first film, whether it be the famous stair sequence, Phoenix in the back of a cop car or Fleck down on the ground.

FOLIE À DEUX” MAY NOT BE EVERYBODY’S CUP OF TEA BUT IT CERTAINLY DESERVES A TASTE.

Though “Joker” was Oscar-nominated for categories such as Best Picture and Best Performance in a Leading Role (taking home the latter prize), many in the film community criticized the film for being too derivative of the works that Phillips cited as inspiration. He made it clear that his take on the DC comic-book villain, set in New York in the 1970s, would pull from the gritty New York films of the era, however, eyebrows were raised when people noticed plot points were almost directly taken from Scorsese’s “King of Comedy” and “Taxi Driver”.

Both in his writing and directorial choices, Phillips does not have the kind of virtuosity necessary to make something incredible from an original exploration of New York City in the 1970s regarding the lack of effective social work. However, his blunt voice somehow struck a chord with the release of “Joker.”

What made the first film such a success is that it became a catharsis for all those who’ve felt kicked down repeatedly. Unable to speak up. Joker murdering his “bullies” became an act of rebellion for the outcasts. But this is not what Phillips intended. This is something, blunter than with the first film, that he wants to make abundantly clear in “Folie à Deux.”

Phillips goes full “provocateur” for the twohour-plus runtime, beginning the film with a Looney Tunes-style animated sequence and not leaving the audience with any kind of hopeful or enjoyable ending. Uncomfortable and triggering events take place as Arthur is put on trial. The film is far too long and too unfocused to be considered any kind of a masterpiece. Toward the end of the film, the musical sequences and dialogue about Arthur’s character become grating. However, the film deserves to be defended and given some credit. In the history of movies, this is the first time that a sequel to a billiondollar film has been a musical and a Trojan Horse meant to provoke and question audiences for their complacency in the negative aspects of their own lives. And that must be applauded.

With an estimated production budget of $195 million making only $39 million on opening weekend, this film is unlikely to make back its budget. The Rotten Tomatoes score is at a 33% rotten and is likely to go down even further. But watching this film, it is clear this was always what its reality would’ve been from miles away.

The first film was nominated for an Academy Award in Best Cinematography in 2019 and its sequel deserves similar praise — it’s full of breathtaking images. Phoenix, after winning the Oscar for his role, reprising it, has only gotten

more expressive and talented in his agonized looks. Lady Gaga turns in a very exciting, if not under-utilized, performance that fully rivals her best work in films like “A Star Is Born.” The film is at its best when it is a Ted Bundy-esque RomCom between Arthur and Lee, occasionally arguing something meaningful about the responsibilities we have in our own lives.

In an industry with more and more fans are dying, to see a “comic book film” take such a swing in the opposite direction as its company (compare this to “Deadpool and Wolverine”, a film much more interested in serving up the wishes of its fans), it’s tremendous to see that a film with this budget was even allowed to be released. Watch “Joker: Folie à Deux” for its humanity in a man wrestling with the impact of his previous work.

This is not a recommendation for the film but a plea in defense of art and originality.■ H

Buckle up buddy, we’re in it for the long haul

Movies about college for college students.

MATA ELANGOVAN Managing Editor

College is better in the movies. So instead of experiencing life outside the dorm room, crawl into bed with one of these movies to live the college experience vicariously through a 40-year old actor.

“Lady Bird” (2017)

Before she directed “Barbie” and “Little Women,” Greta Gerwig was working on “Lady Bird,” a coming-of-age film set in the early 2000s capturing the relationships between a teenage girl and her mother. While the film is not solely about college, it encompasses the transition between the teenage years and adulthood, a part of which lies in the college application process. Christine “Lady Bird” McPherseon, played by Saoirse Ronan, wants more than life in her hometown. Fiercely independent and bold, she navigates through her final year of high school and her changing relationships with her mother as they both clash over aspirations and challenges in life. Despite the conflict and tension, it is clear to see moments of tenderness and vulnerability between Lady Bird and her mother. As the two begin to appreciate each others’ struggles and sacrifices, their relationship evolves in a beautiful manner.

“Legally Blonde” (2001)

Featuring Selma Blair as Elle Woods, “Legally Blonde” is a hilarious romantic comedy following the adventures of a sorority president from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) navigating the world of Harvard Law in order to prove her worth to her ex-boyfriend. Tackling stereotypes and shooting down those who view her with skepticism, Elle immerses herself in her studies. With her intelligence, work ethic, fashionable pink wardrobe and personality, she breaks barriers and grows into herself. Mixing together themes of humor, heart and self-love, “Legally Blonde” is a classic that is definitely worth watching. The movie proves that not every college journey is linear, and maybe dream jobs can be realized.

“Pitch Perfect” (2012)

With zany twists, a catchy soundtrack and sharp humor, “Pitch Perfect” is a spirited musical comedy that will never go out of style. Set in the fictional world of Barden University, Beca Mitchell, played by Anna Kendrick, hesitantly joins the school’s all-girls a cappella group. While not every college journey centers around musical performances, national championships and rivalries between a cappella groups, “Pitch Perfect” draws in the viewer with its portrayal of college life, making it relatable for anyone who has been through the roller coaster ride known as college. Using the college setting to explore themes of friendships through the lens of Beca’s path of social integration, the film shares the message that collaboration and community involvement is just as, if not more important, than individual aspiration.

“Toy Story 3” (2010)

This one is definitely going to be a “hear me out.”

From the perspective of Andy’s toys and Andy himself, “Toy Story 3” is a deeply emotional movie about loss, growth and the inevitable transition from childhood to adult life. While previous movies in the franchise focus on the attachment between child and toy, this movie focuses on what happens to this bond as children grow up. With Andy now preparing to leave for college, he now has to decide what he is going to do with his childhood friends. Will he leave them or bring them with him on the next step of his journey? A touching metaphor for letting go of your childhood, “Toy Story 3” is not just a story about toys; it’s a story about devotion, shedding old identities and passing on love and care to the next generation. It is all about letting go of the past and embracing new beginnings.

“Accepted” (2006)

College admissions are a trial in and of itself, and “Accepted” is a comedy that takes a very outrageous idea very seriously. Starring Justin Long as Bartleby “B” Gaines, the film follows the story of a senior in high school who was rejected from every college and university he applied to. In a fit of desperation, he decides to create his own fake university to sate his parents. With the creation of the newly South Harmon Institute of Technology, a very mid website and a dream to get away with his tomfoolery, he creates a society that nurtures passions and interests, with students allowed to pursue their own dreams. A satire about the higher education system, “Accepted” takes a jab at the rigid admissions process and combats the idea of prestige. The film suggests the apparently out-of-this-world idea that education should be about creativity and individual growth rather than standardized and rigid. While the film may not seem to take itself too seriously, the charm of its cast and overall feel-good of this movie captures the central message that education is more than just grades, extracurriculars and conformity.■ H

IMAGES COURTESY OF PINTEREST

TXT’S Yeonjun’s ‘Ggum’ promises to stick with you like venom

One of K-pop’s “IT” boys of the fourth generation, Yeonjun, chews up his first solo single entitled, ‘GGUM.’

On Sep. 19, 2024, Yeonjun of K-pop boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) released his second solo song after “Boyfriend,” an original soundtrack (OST) for the K-drama “Cinderella at 2AM.”

This is what one would describe as “noise music” with elements of hip-hop and electro. However, K-pop stans, more often than not, use the term “construction music” instead. This could be used as a compliment as well as a diss. “Construction music” challenges the barriers of what makes a song “good” and aims to make that song in a way that’s not conventionally regarded as “musical.”

In the article, “Tomorrow X Together’s Yeonjun on solo release: ‘I’m going to keep challenging myself,’” by Olivia Munson on USA Today, Yeonjun shares, “I was actually chewing on gum when I was in the car, and it just came to me all of a sudden.” The article delves into the concept of the song, which is how one can exude swagger and confidence when chewing gum. He also laments, “It was very challenging to do the vocals, the rap and the dance all at once…I came to really respect solo artists.”

The song begins with a heavy bass and synth, a very strong start to any track. Yeonjun whispers, “Y-J,” as a tagline for the song, which was a small but really cool touch.

The track goes right into a catchy chorus, where Yeonjun raps with a vocal effect that pitches his voice higher. It’s definitely a choice. Whether or not it’s a good one is definitely debatable, but critics are leaning more towards the answer being a definite, “No.”

The catchiness, unfortunately, cannot save the chorus and prechorus from being extremely repetitive. Two low piano notes playing in quick succession of each other make up almost half of the pre-chorus. It stands out next to the high-pitched voice, but listeners can’t help but wish there was more substance in the form of actual lyrics in the pre-chorus.

The first verse is definitely better than the second with his chill rap style. He makes some interesting vocal choices when it comes to his execution of the sec ond verse, but it would have been more preferable if he stuck to the light and airy flow he had in the first verse.

VERDICT: Although this is definitely not the best K-pop song ever to grace your ears, it is one that will stick in your head for a while.

IMAGES COURTESY OF HYBE

STELA NOELLE ABASTA

Contributing Writer

Tailgating Times: Disgusting wait times and lit vibes

TERRY NGUYEN Assistant Sports Editor

The drive to the stadium from Riverside is unsurprisingly flooded with traffic. We left at 2:55 and around 4:40, we were one mile from the stadium. This is where the Los Angeles (LA) traffic becomes

hectic, as we didn’t move much for the next 45 minutes. After paying 50 dollars for general parking, and more waiting, we finally parked the car around 5:30 p.m., arriving at the game in the second inning.

We sat in the top deck towards third base, and as soon as we found our seats, fireworks struck the stadium. LAD’s Kiké Hernandez hit a solo home run in the bottom of the second, and the crowd turned up. I’ve been to a handful of big games, including 49ers playoff games at Levi’s Stadium, and I would say Dodger Stadium is right up there in terms of crowd noise.

The atmosphere and ambiance of the stadium was incredible, as Dodger fans were super rowdy for the entire game. Even during down

time, there was always something going on that kept the fans engaged and loud. Francisco is a fan of the rival San Francisco Giants, but he had this to say about Dodger Stadium: “I’d say the atmosphere is pretty great, I’ve been to a couple of other games and this is probably the loudest that I’ve seen [of a baseball stadium].”

As a Bay Area native, I feel criminal relaying that sentence.

In the fifth inning, Francisco gave into his impulses as he bought an ice cream sandwich for seven dollars. After demolishing the snack, he gave a review: “I couldn’t say I regret the purchase, but I don’t love the purchase … [but] it was gas.”

The home team Dodgers ended up winning 2-0 and advanced to the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Solo home runs by Kiké Hernandez and Teoscar Hernandez along with stellar pitching by the Dodgers was enough to fend off the Padres, and the fans were driving back home with smiles on their faces. Unfortunately for the Padres, there was no ‘October

Magic’ to be seen, and they can go to Cancún for vacation now.

Following the game, we decided to walk around the venue and tour what Dodger Stadium had to offer. The new pop-up museum had some cool memorabilia, including gameworn jerseys and other equipment. One thing I found interesting was the tributes to sports broadcaster, Vin Scully, as the Dodgers showcased his Emmy Award trophies and Presidential Medal of Freedom. As an aspiring sports broadcaster myself, I won’t forget seeing the Vin Scully memorials at Dodger Stadium. That was truly a unique feeling. After exiting the gates, which was around 30 minutes after the final pitch, it was time to leave the stadium. We got to our car at 8:30 p.m., and there was absolutely no way out. Francisco and I ended up relaxing in the car for the next hour, before we were able to move from our parking spot. At around 9:50 p.m., we were finally on the freeway, back to being students at the University of California, Riverside.

TERRY

Highlanders snatch late 1-0 win from UCI on Latin Heritage Night

ETHAN GONZALEZ

ISAAC SOLNICK Sports Editor

After a long six-game road trip that featured non-conference and Big West opponents, including a game against number three ranked Stanford, the University of California, Riverside (UCR) were finally ready to play their first home game in over a month. Wednesday’s game was also Latin Heritage Night, and the crowd and players alike were not shy to show off their pride.

When asked about the significance of the game, senior forward Edward Castro shared, “Yeah, of course. There’s extra importance because we’re representing the Latino community.” The metal bleachers of the UCR Soccer Stadium were rocking all night as the Highlanders were able to feed off the energy of the fans.

Without a doubt, it was the most highly anticipated game of the year up to this point. Anything other than a win against the University of California, Irvine (UCI) would be a major letdown. However, with senior captain Christian Ceja suspended, everyone else would need to step up in his absence. As the music of the mariachi band slowly faded away, the sound of the opening whistle started the game.

Elliot, then trap and win the ball in the corner. The Anteaters were helped by the referees holding their whistle, but the UCR coaches had their players prepared for a physical game.

GOAAALLLLL!

Despite the hostile environment, the Anteaters weren’t afraid to take it to the Highlanders early. UCI waited for UCR to pass it to one of their outside center backs, senior AJ

When asked about his Mexican heritage, assistant coach Roma rio Lomeli expressed, “The obsta cles of our journey and everything we’ve gone through … just working hard and everything we’ve got we’ve earned.” That mentality is clearly instilled into the squad and they showed it when they needed to break UCI’s press. When the Highlanders outworked the Anteaters in the build-up phase, they often creatdangerous chances going the other way.

It wasn’t just a high work rate that helped them break through UCI’s pressure, captain Christian Ceja also noted the team’s togetherness as one of its strengths: “It’s a privilege playing here for UCR … everyone comes together and creates one big family and everyone kind of learns each other’s cultures.” With UCR consistently creating fastbreak chances, UCI had to abandon the press and play a much deeper line.

UCI started sitting back defensively and inviting the Highlanders into their own half. This made it easier for UCR to bring the ball up, but getting the ball into scoring areas became much harder. The Anteaters initially stymied any UCR chance, but the Highlanders found success on the left flank. Redshirt sophomore midfielder Jona Martinez and freshman fullback

synergy was reminiscent of the duo who used to overwhelm teams on the Mexico National Team’s right flank during the 2010s.

For most of the game, UCI’s senior goalkeeper Paul Jing did a good job coming off his line and dealing with balls into the box. However, in the 58-minute mark, UCR’s senior Noah Lopez knocked the ball on for senior Lukas Juodkunaitis. Lopez’s perfectly weighted pass gave Juodkunaitis a one-on-one with Jing, who rushed right at him. Juodkunaitis looked to go around the keeper, but was tripped up by Jing outside the box.

After a few minutes of deliberation, UCR was awarded a free kick just outside the box and Jing was handed a straight red card. This was followed by another several minutes of confusion since the remaining Anteater goalkeepers were both injured. In the end, redshirt sophomore defender Abraham Brown was thrown into the fire. He put on the gloves and organized the wall to defend the incoming free kick.

The wall did its job, but the ball deflected right to Martinez. The redshirt sophomore’s shot smacked the crossbar and was cleared away. The Highlanders kept piling on the pressure. They kept testing Brown with long shots, but his teammates put the bodies on the line and blocked shots to make it easier on him.

didn’t give up hope. Head coach Tim Cupello made a wave of subs in an attempt to break the deadlock. With fresh legs on the field, a pair of subs made the difference with just a minute left. Charging down the right side, junior forward Wes Hastings hit a low cross into the box. On its way in, the ball takes a deflection and spills right on the penalty spot for sophomore Ethan Gonzalez. He instinctively smashes it in the top right corner. His shot rattles the net and erupts the crowd.

The Highlanders successfully saw out the last minute of the game and secured a 1-0 home win. On Saturday, UCR went back on the road to face Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. At the time, the Mustangs stood atop the Big West standings, but the Highlanders earned a gritty 0-0 draw. UCR will look to keep the clean sheets coming at home against California State University, Fullerton on Oct. 16.

Be creative.

The Highlander Newspaper is a great way to keep up with current events and news around campus. If you are interested in the newspaper’s articles or pictures, we offer opportunities in writing, photography and design. Join us every Monday at 5:15 p.m. in HUB 101 to learn more.

Volume 73 Issue 03

The Highlander

NEWS

AFSCME picket at Glasgow protests low wages and short staffing

RADAR

In Defense: ‘Joker: Folie à Deux’

SPORTS

Tailgating Times: Disgusting wait times and lit vibes

CONTACT US

LEGAL

AFSCME picket at Glasgow protests low wages and short staffing

New climate change efforts in Riverside

THE CITY OF RIVERSIDE MOVES TO BOOST LOCAL ECONOMY AND CLIMATE CHANGE EFFORTS.

Helene & Milton: two weeks of hurricanes

Updates on the UCSA with ASUCR

California’s new gun control measures are a step in the right direction

GOV. GAVIN NEWSOM SIGNS SEVERAL NEW PIECES OF LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE GUN SAFETY IN CALIFORNIA AND PROTECT STUDENTS.

California’s TikTok lawsuit is a call for young users to stay safe online

Agency at the ballot box

Harris’ stance on the Middle East conflict may be its downfall

ALIENATING HER YOUNGER VOTERS MAY BE HARRIS’ CRUCIAL MISTAKE THIS ELECTION.

Features SCOTTY-SCOPES:

Navigating college life by the stars

How to behave in a college classroom

HERE’S A GUIDE ON HOW NOT TO BE *THAT* STUDENT. WELCOME TO CLASSROOM ETIQUETTE 101.

NORM’S NOOK

SPOTLIGHT

Picnic Hill

STUDENT POLL

Question: What artist would you lie about having shown up on your Spotify wrapped?

MUPPET MANIA

Trader Joe’s treasure trove

IF YOU ARE STRUGGLING WITH NAVIGATING TRADER JOE’S, HERE IS A LIST OF MY FAVORITE HIDDEN GEMS.

Frozen Foods

Snacks

Dips

Radar

‘Joker : Folie à Deux’ IN DEFENSE

THE FOLLOW-UP TO THE 2019 SMASH HIT “JOKER:

Buckle up buddy, we’re in it for the long haul

Movies about college for college students.

“Accepted” (2006)

TXT’S Yeonjun’s ‘Ggum’ promises to stick with you like venom

Tailgating Times: Disgusting wait times and lit vibes

Highlanders snatch late 1-0 win from UCI on Latin Heritage Night

GOAAALLLLL!

Be creative.

HERE’S A GUIDE ON HOW NOT TO BE THAT STUDENT. WELCOME TO CLASSROOM ETIQUETTE 101.