Viewpoints Issue No. 4 October 15, 2020

viewpoints R

“We must not tolerate oppressive government or industrial oligarchy in the form of monopolies and cartels.”

- Henry A. Wallace

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VOL. 99, NO. 4 OCTOBER 15,

2020

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Riverside to elect new mayor

Council member, school board trustee seek office in runoff ERIK GALICIA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Riverside voters will choose between a city council member and a school board official when they elect their next mayor this year.

Andy Melendrez, Ward 2 representative, and Patricia Lock Dawson, Riverside Unified School District trustee, advanced

to a runoff election after beating four other candidates during the city’s initial mayoral election March 3. Melendrez led that race with 43.47% of the vote, while Dawson came in second with 35.76% of the vote, according to the city clerk.

Both candidates aim to address homelessness through a regional approach that urges neighboring cities to stop exporting people into Riverside.

They argue that many homeless

people come to the city for social services and end up staying due to a lack of help in their hometowns.

“The ultimate goal is to get whoever is using these services back in an environment where they’re supported and helped,” Dawson said via Zoom on Oct. 6.

She said she will implement agreements that allow homeless people to seek help in their own cities. Her plan also aims for continued partnerships with nonprofits and the faith

community to develop better homelessness prevention and exit strategies, such as job training programs.

The RUSD trustee said her leadership of a three-county coalition that secured $65 million in state funding for the Santa Ana River trail over the past 15 years is an example of the type of management required

WHAT’S INSIDE NEWS

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See MAYOR on page 7

WHAT’S INSIDE: Military plane crashes near Thermal

Affirmative action on the California ballot this year

LIFE

8 Three familyfriendly Halloween movies to watch

EDITORIAL See CRASH on page 4 JOYCE NUGENT | VIEWPOINTS

A police cruiser is seen Oct. 3 at the scene of an emergency crash landing of a KC-130J tanker near the Thermal Airport.

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County votes against defying state plans Multiple Board of Supervisors meetings address reopening CHEETARA PIRY ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors voted against a fast-tracked timeline to reopen businesses before Halloween that bypassed state guidelines.

Supervisor Jeff Hewitt first presented the plan Sept. 22, but it required further revision and was rescheduled for discussion Oct. 6.

The proposal was rejected 4-1, with only Hewitt dissenting.

The board removed Hewitt’s timeline for Phases 2 and 3 and will remain aligned with state recommendations.

Supervisor V. Manuel Perez added a motion for county staff to work closely with the California Department of Public Health to seek guidance and clarity regarding hotel meetings in hopes of keeping businesses from closing again.

According to Supervisor Karen Spiegel, the revised proposal was not much different from the state’s color-coded system. Upon approval, his plan would not have allowed for mass reopening.

“This guideline has just a couple of ideas that are outside the box,” Spiegel said. “My concern is we are giving (a) false sense of hope to businesses.”

Hewitt’s plan followed proper safety practices including

physical distancing, wearing of face coverings, frequent hand washing and cleaning protocols. The board will closely monitor public health trends of new COVID-19 cases before proceeding to the next phase.

Phase 1, which took effect Sept.

22, reopened dine-in services, places of worship, theaters and gyms. It also reopened personal

See COUNTY on page 6

Voting is especially crucial this time around

INDEX NEWS LIFE VIEWS EDITORIAL SPORTS

2 8 12 14 16

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News

October 15, 2020

NEWS BRIEFS Voter Registration Deadlines The deadline to register online and by mail in California is Oct. 19.

The deadline to register in person is Nov. 3.

To register to vote or check your registration status visit www.registertovote.ca.gov.

HBCU Experience Webinar The California Community Colleges Historic Black Colleges and Universities Transfer Guarantee Agreement program and the Umoja Community intend to provide students an understanding of the HBCU experience.

Presenters will discuss stereotypes and particpants will have the opportunity for conversation with HBCU graduates and current students.

To register, visit www. eventbrite.com/e/hbcuexperience-webinartickets-122430668425.

Transfer Application Deadlines The priority application period for the fall 2021 semester at most California State Universities ends Dec. 4.

The fall 2021 admission application filing period for all University of California applicants starts Nov. 1 and ends Nov. 30.

MVC Giving Week Moreno Valley College’s Giving Week starts Nov. 2 and ends Nov. 6.

The college is seeking sponsors to contribute to its President Excellence Fund.

Contributions will go toward continuing innovation in programs, scholarships, equipment and other student support resources.

Corrections In our last issue, we incorrectly referred to the Riverside City College softball coach as Michelle Daddonna. Her correct last name is Daddona.

In our last issue, we incorrectly referred to Lucy Eaton’s producer as Eric Lee. His correct first name is Marcus.

In our last issue, we said the El Dorado Fire started in Oak Glen, California. It actually started in Yucaipa, California.

Riverside to vote on four measures

Voters to decide on city council election, charter changes

MEASURE Q: If passed, Riverside City Council vacancies will be filled through special elections, not appointments, when the open term is

more than one year long. Council members appointed to fill spots with less than one year left in the term will not be allowed to list themselves as incumbents or council members during the following election. According to CaliforniaChoices.org, the fiscal impact of each special election is an estimated $63,000.

MEASURE R: If passed, Riverside City Council elections will move from odd years to even years in order to have them coincide with state elections. The measure would take effect in 2022. According to CaliforniaChoices.org, no fiscal impact has been submitted.

MEASURE S: If passed, proposed changes to the Riverside City Charter other than voter initiatives would require review by the Charter Review Committee before being placed on the ballot by the City Council. The fiscal impact would be minimal, according to CaliforniaChoices.org.

MEASURE T: If passed, the requirement to provide paper copies of the city’s budget in all Riverside public libraries and departments would be removed. It aims to reduce costs associated with production and distribution of paper copies, according to CaliforniaChoices.org.

Californians to decide on several props Stem cell research, voting for parolees, ride-share workers and more PROP 14: A “yes” vote supports issuing $5.5 billion in general obligation bonds to the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, which

suspended new projects in 2019 due to low funds. No more than 7.5% of the bonds would be used on operation costs. Remaining funds would go toward research grants, trials, facility start-ups and stem cell-related programs. The institute’s oversight committee would be increased from 29 to 35 members.

PROP 15: A “yes” vote supports amending California’s constitution to require commercial and industrial property, except in agriculture, to

be taxed based on market value instead of purchase price. Revenue will be distributed to the state to account for revenue decreases from personal income and corporation taxes due to tax deductions. Of the remaining revenue, 60% will be given to local governments and special districts and 40% will go to school districts and Community Colleges. Of the funds for education, 11% will go to Community Colleges and 89% will go to public schools, charter schools and county education offices.

PROP 17: A “yes” vote supports amending California’s constitution to allow paroled convicted felons to vote. Those in prison will still be prohibited from voting.

PROP 18: A “yes” vote allows amending California’s constitution to allow 17-year-olds to vote in primary and special elections if they will be 18 years old by the next general election.

PROP 19: A “yes” vote supports amending California’s constitution to allow eligible homeowners to transfer tax assessments anywhere in

the state and to more expensive homes, with upward adjustments. It will also allow the severely disabled and those over 55 years old to transfer their tax assessments up to three times. Secondary homes and rentals will be reassessed at market value when transferred. The measure will also create the California Fire Response Fund and the County Revenue Protection Fund, into which 75% and 15% of the revenue will be deposited, respectively.

PROP 20: A “yes” vote supports adding crimes to the list of crimes for which early parole is restricted. It will also allow for DNA collection

for certain misdemeanors and allow some theft and fraud crimes to be charged as felonies rather than misdemeanors. The measure aims to amend three past propositions that intended to reduce the state’s prison population.

PROP 21: A “yes” vote supports expanding local governments’ authority to enact rent control on residential properties first occupied over 15

years ago. There will be an exception for owners of no more than two homes. It will allow local limits on rent increases to differ from the state’s.

Rent controlled properties will be allowed rent increases of up to 15% over the first three years of new tenancy.

PROP 22: A “yes” vote supports defining app-based drivers as “independent contractors” rather than employees unless ride-share companies

set work hours, require certain work or restrict working with other companies. Independent contractors are not covered by employment laws that mandate overtime pay, minimum wage, unemployment insurance and worker’s compensation. Instead, they will be entitled to healthcare subsidies, minimum earnings and vehicle insurance. The measure will also criminalize the impersonation of drivers.

PROP 23: A “yes” vote supports requiring at least one doctor to be on-site during treatment at kidney dialysis clinics. Clinics will be exempt

if there is a shortage of doctors and at least one nurse practitioner or physician assistant is on site. It will require clinics to report dialysis-related infections to the state and federal governments and prohibit clinics from closing or reducing services without state approval. The measure will also prohibit clinics from refusing to treat patients based on the source of payment for care.

PROP 24: A “yes” vote allows consumers to prevent businesses from sharing personal information, correct inaccurate personal information and limit businesses’ use of information such as race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation and location. It will establish the California Privacy Protection Agency to enforce privacy laws and impose fines. The measure will also triple penalties for violations concerning people less than 16 years old.

PROP 25: A “yes” vote supports the approval of a 2018 law that replaced the cash bail system with one on public safety and flight risks. If approved, it will limit a person’s jail time before trial for certain misdemeanors.

Register by Oct. 19

News

October 15, 2020

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Prop 16 aims for affirmative action Measure on California ballot addresses hiring in public sector CHLOE HUNTER STAFF REPORTER

California voters will decide whether or not to lift the state’s ban on affirmative action in the public sector this year.

Proposition 16, on the ballot this election, attempts to balance the demographic representation of public workers by repealing a 1996 law that disallowed the public sector from affirmative action hiring practices. If approved, the prop would require businesses contracted with the federal government to create equal opportunities in consideration of race, gender, sexual orientation, disabilities and veteran status.

“Proposition 16 levels the playing field so we can all succeed,” Yes on 16, the organization behind the initiative, says.

Opponents of Proposition 16, like the Californians for Equal Rights organization, are against affirmative action because it would require a repeal of a part of the state constitution that prohibits preferential treatment.

There are a variety of opinions on the proposal within the Riverside Community College District. “ Wi t h t h i s p a r t i c u l a r proposition, I see there to be a great deal of potential positive outcomes,” said Gregory Anderson, Riverside City College president.

He explained that he believes critics misinterpret the proposition. It does not require a person of a specific background or ethnic group to be hired and

is about getting people into the pipeline in order to strengthen the quality and diversity of the pool of applicants, he argued.

Proposition 209, an amendment to the California State constitution, was pushed onto the ballot in 1996, largely by citizens. Prop 209 bans both discrimination and prefrential treatment in the public sector.

Proposition 209 is now being revisited in the form of Proposition 16 and would open up the use of affirmative action to state employers. Many of those in support of Proposition 16 want to see the diversity of our communities accurately represented and provide more opportunities for minorities.

“I don’t think it’s preferential treatment at all,” Anderson said.

“I think that the higher institutions still need to be fair in their hiring practices. An employer still needs to act within fair, equal opportunity employment laws.

This is just about establishing qualification expectations, not about telling anybody who to hire”.

Isaiah and Nathan Villar, students at Norco College, disagree with Proposition 16.

“I never liked the idea of hiring someone just because of their race or gender,” Isaiah said. “You should hire someone because they possess the skills that are needed for the job, not because they are someone of a different race or gender.”

Nathan echoed his brother’s sentiments.

“I’m against it because it repeals a proposition that states that a state can’t discriminate against or give preferential

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Proposition 16, to be decided on by voters Nov. 3, attempts to reinstate affirmative action practices in the California’s public sector. Businesses with government contracts would be subject to the new law. treatment on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin,” he said. “I’m not a fan of giving better treatment to someone because of their race or sex. They should be treated on their skills and their personality.”

Ashley Alvarez, a Riverside City College student, had a more positive opinion of Prop 16.

“I’ll be voting yes because I believe that people of color and women are already at a disadvantage when it comes to getting jobs and education,”

Alvarez said. “What employers and the school board should be looking at is the candidate that is the most qualified and not their race, ethnicity, sex or gender.”

There are clear differences of interpretation on Proposition 16.

Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif., the Democratic vice presidential candidate, supports the proposal.

Other notable endorsements have come from Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., Gov. Gavin Newsom, former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg, the

Anti-Defamation League and the American Civil Liberties Union of California.

Notable opponents to Proposition 16 include congressional candidate Darrell Issa, R-Calif., the Republican Party of California and the American Civil Rights Institute.

More information about California Proposition 16 is available at www.ballotpedia. org/California_Proposition_16,_ Repeal_Proposition_209_ Affirmative_Action_ Amendment_(2020).

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News

October 15, 2020

JOYCE NUGENT | VIEWPOINTS

A military KC-130J tanker is examined by service members Oct. 3 after a mid-air collision with an F-35B fighter jet near the city of Thermal on Sept. 29.

Marine pilot crash lands near Thermal airport Cause of mid-air collision with fighter jet under investigation JOYCE NUGENT STAFF REPORTER

An F-35B fighter jet collided with a KC-130J tanker during an air-to-air refueling training operation Sept. 29 around 4 p.m.

The F-35B (VOLT 93), which crashed close to Salton City, was assigned to the “Green Knights” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121.

The Pilot of the F-35B ejected successfully. The stealth fighter jet was destroyed on impact.

The KC-130J that made an emergency landing is assigned to the “Raiders” of Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 352.

The pilot of the U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J Hercules tanker touched down safely close to the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport near Thermal, located in Riverside County.

“It was an impressive maneuver bringing it down safely by force,” said 1st Lt. Brett Vannier, Marine Corps Air Station Yuma spokesman.

Miquel Vasquez, of Thermal, was rinsing his truck off at the end of his day about a quarter of a mile from where the plane crash landed on its belly in a carrot field.

“I looked up to the sky because I heard a lot of noise,” Vasquez said. “I will never forget the sight of the big plane flying so low. I knew it was going to crash.”

In the Federal Aviation

Administration’s recording of Raider 50, the callsign for the FC 130J tanker, with air traffic control at LA Center the pilot says: “LA Center LA Center, RAIDER 50 declaring an emergency, midair collision with VOLT 93. We have two engines out, we’re leaking fuel, and likely on fire, and in emergency descent at this time.”

“I was afraid there would be a fire,” said Jose Madina, a resident who lives nearby. “I saw it leaking fuel as it flew by. I was praying it would make it to the airport.”

Luis Gonzalez, who was working at Golden State Herbs, ran across the 40-acre field after he saw the plane plow through it.

“I saw people run from the plane and yell to stay away,” Gonzalez said.

When a military aircraft crashes, there is at least one accident investigation; if death or injury occurs.

But there is generally more than one investigation, each conducted by the military.

At times, a third may be conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board o r t h e F e d e r a l Av i a t i o n Administration.

Military officials said the cause of the collision is under investigation. They would not discuss the damage to the aircraft or other details.

The total number of major military accidents, defined by the extent of damage or injury

JOYCE NUGENT | VIEWPOINTS

Men work Oct. 9 to secure the vertical stabilizer of the KC-130J that crash-landed in Thermal. the individual accidents caused, dropped slightly last year.

The Pentagon reported 1,005 major accidents in 2019, down from 1,036 in 2018, according to Department of Defense data.

The Marine Corps was the only service branch to see a spike

in the total number of major accidents, as the total rose 30%.

“As the service’s safety advocate, the Naval Safety Center remains committed to identifying hazards and reducing risks to our people and resources,” said Stephanie Slater, spokeswoman

for the Naval Safety Center which oversees Marine Corps aviation. “We will continue to provide advanced data analytics as well as in-depth studies, trends and sophisticated modeling data that can be used to help prevent mishaps.”

October 15, 2020

News

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PHOTO COURTESY OF TIFFANY TERTIPES | UNSPLASH

The Los Angeles Times reported more than one million Californians mailed in their ballots by Oct. 14. This is the highest amount of mail-in ballots received by a state so far.

County, state promote mail-in voting COVID-19 forces increase in absentee ballots this election ROLINDA ESPINOZA STAFF REPORTER

COVID-19 has changed the way we do a lot of things this year.

Voting is no exception.

Some states have implemented measures intended to increase mail voting in the upcoming election, which will be held Nov. 3.

Some residents of Riverside County who have never voted with absentee ballots are now relying on mail-in voting to stay safe during the pandemic.

For many of them, voting-bymail provides a sense of security that their votes will be counted, without putting themselves at risk

of contracting COVID-19.

“I have never ever voted by mail,” said Erlinda Rodriguez, 75, of Corona. “I have always voted in person on the day of the election. However, I am a senior citizen which puts me in a vulnerable position in regard to COVID-19, so I will be voting by mail this year.”

The last day to register for mail-in voting in Riverside County is Oct. 19.

Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed two executive orders that changed voting regulations due to COVID-19.

The first order, signed May 8, required the Registrar of Voters to mail each registered voter a ballot. There are 1.2 million registered voters in Riverside

County this year. Vote-by-mail ballots were sent out Oct. 5.

There was an extension for submitting ballots this year due to public health concerns.

In previous years, ballots were required to be sent before election day and received within three days post-election day.

This year, ballots must still be sent before Nov. 3, but will be accepted up to 17 days after election day.

The extension considers any issues or slowdowns that might arise within the U.S. Postal Service.

The second executive order, signed June 3, established opportunities for in-person voting that follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention.

There will be voter assistance centers for anyone who needs help while voting in Riverside County.

The centers will aid those who may not have received their ballots, made mistakes filling them out, need bilingual assistance or require an audio voting ballot.

There will be 130 assistance centers open between Oct. 31 and Nov. 3 in Riverside County.

Same-day voter registration will be available at the voter assistance centers.

“We are encouraging voters to vote those ballots and only come into those voter assistance centers if they need the assistance,” said Rebecca Spencer of the Riverside

County Registrar of Voters.

Voting by mail does not require a postal stamp. The envelope must be signed and sent through the U.S. Postal Service or dropped off at one of the 80 available drop sites in Riverside County.

Drop-off locations opened Oct. 5 and will be open during regular business hours until Nov. 3.

Ballot tracking is available for concerned residents.

Where’s My Ballot, a ballottracking service, sends email or text notifications to registered members about the status of their ballot from when it is sent out to when it is received. To sign up for ballot tracking, visit california. ballottrax.net/voter/.

State sees decrease in documented child abuse Teachers, other mandated reporters unable to identify maltreatment ANIELA RUSSO STAFF REPORTER

California has experienced a drop in reported cases of child abuse in the foster care system since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March.

Children are not in school, so most mandated reporters such as police, teachers, counselors, doctors and nurses are unable to make reports or observe physical or psychological changes.

“A substantial amount of cases go unreported in a normal situation, or we get half a story,” said John Canto, supervising investigator for the State of California. “Most reported cases come from a teacher, a school counselor, or a therapist.

During this (COVID-19) crisis, child abuse cases are going unreported. Children sometimes

open up at older ages and report things that happened to them years ago in foster care.”

According to EdSource, teachers report more cases of child abuse than any other group in California. The Child Welfare League of America reported that, of all mandated reporters of abuse, teachers report 20% of cases. Police and attorneys report 18% of cases.

Between the months of April and August this year, reports of child abuse in the state decreased 28% from the same months in 2019, according to the California Department of Social Services.

EdSource reported that between those months in 2020, counties in the state received 121,298 calls of suspected child abuse. In 2019, counties received 167,740 calls during those months.

But recent numbers from the Child Welfare League of America indicated that although reported

cases have decreased this year, national child abuse reports were actually on the rise in recent years.

According to a study entitled Child Maltreatment 2018, the number of children in the country who received child protective services increased 8.4% from 2014 to 2018. The number of victims also increased by 0.4% during that time. The 2018 numbers indicated 10.7% of cases involved physical abuse, 7% involved sexual abuse and 60.8% involved neglect.

An estimated 1,770 children died of abuse and neglect at a rate of 2.39 per 100,000 children in 2018, according to the study. It also reports that children under the age of one are abused at the highest rate.

Salina Telles, Riverside County state investigator, examines severe cases of neglect.

“There are resources such as wrap-around programs and alternative resources,” Telles said.

K i m Ta y l o r, R i v e r s i d e County Department of Public Social Services Investigation Department regional manager, did not respond to request for comment.

On April 13, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a $42 million pledge to protect foster youth and families impacted by the pandemic. According to a press release from the governor’s office, $27 million went to help keep families together, $14 million went to aid social workers, $3 million went to resource centers and the remaining amount went to support helplines and other miscellaneous expenses.

“Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, stable and nurturing environment free from fear, abuse and neglect,” Newsom said in the

press release April 13. “Our foster youth and the families who care for them need our support to get through this difficult time. We are ramping up funding on initiatives that keep families together and support the social workers who provide critical services to help families thrive.”

Newsom also declared the month of April National Child Abuse Prevention Month in California.

Social workers and agencies continue to conduct home visits and video calls to comply with legal guidelines.

Riverside County recognized the positive contributions of the majority of foster parents despite these challenges.

Call the Riverside County Children’s Services Division Hotline at 800-442-4918 or the National Child Abuse Hotline at 800-442-4453 to report child abuse.

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News

October 15, 2020

DIEGO LOMELI | VIEWPOINTS

The Riverside County Board of Supervisors stands with the public in prayer as they open the meeting Oct. 6 to discuss the risks and benefits of reopening businesses.

Riverside County decides against fast-tracked reopening COUNTY from page 1 care establishments, including barbershops, nail salons, hair salons and body art parlors.

Phase 2 was slated to go into effect Oct. 13 and would have allowed limited indoor activities at 25% capacity or 100 persons.

Phase 3, the final phase of Hewitt’s plan, was targeted for implementation Oct. 27. It would have reopened wineries, family entertainment centers, bars, breweries and distilleries, non-essential indoor offices and wedding receptions. Indoor gatherings would have been limited to 25% capacity or 100 persons.

Spiegel indicated the county cannot protect businesses with state-issued licenses should they choose to reopen prematurely.

“If you have a liquor license, cosmetology license or medical license, it’s all at risk to be taken if we were to tick off the governor,” Spiegel said.

Kim Saruwatari, Riverside County Public Health director, announced the possibility of falling back to the purple tier, indicating a widespread transmission. In that event, nearly all businesses would have to keep indoor operations closed or severely limited.

Riverside County is in the red tier, the first non-restrictive tier, which allows limited reopening of specific businesses.

“While we expect to remain in the red tier this week, the adjusted case rate is currently entering the purple tier again,” said Cameron Kaiser, Riverside County Public Health officer.

“If the trend continues, we are informed by the state (that) we face the possibility of going backward.”

Saruwatari reported that the county’s raw case rate was at 6.8 per 100,000. The county’s adjusted case rate was at 7.6 per 100,000. These numbers are pushing the county into a possible setback, she said.

A closer look into the data provided, Saruwatari noted, showed increased transmission was not definitive to a specific race, ethnicity or area. The increase was county-wide and most likely caused by the public’s relaxed adherence to CDC guidelines during the initial phase of reopening, she argued.

“We see a similar phenomenon in San Bernardino, so we do not believe this is a local artifact of our numbers,” Kaiser said.

Riverside County CEO George Johnson reported $114 million in state funding were at risk if the county strayed from the state’s reopening guidelines.

That includes $56 million in CARES Act grants that support small businesses negatively impacted by COVID-19.

The county had received $28 million by the time of the meeting, only half of the CARES Act funds, from the state.

In order to receive a direct payment from the state, Johnson must report compliance with, or failure to maintain compliance with the governor’s and the California Department of Public Health’s orders.

“If there is a deviation from following the state’s guidance, that’s where the risk comes into

play,” Johnson said.

Hewitt said Gov. Gavin Newsom never specifically threatened to take the funds from the county if they were to dissent from state guidelines.

Lou Monville, former California State Universities Board of Trustees member, agreed the county should advance in reopening.

“This is a critical moment for the board to highlight to the State of California the ongoing historic underfunding of this county,” Monville said. “The health disparities (in hot spots) are because the state has not funded us properly.”

Public opinion was split on Hewitt’s proposal. Some proponents of reopening threatened supervisors, called for Newsom’s imprisonment and labeled the government’s decision to shut down as “domestic terrorism.”

“For those of you who want us to reopen and those of you who feared that we would lift the restrictions, the truth is we can do neither,” Supervisor Kevin Jeffries said. “As frustrating as it was to hear those folks yelling at me today and threaten us today, I understand there’s nobody else you can talk to.”

Kim Floyd, a resident of Palm Desert, urged that the county not abandon the state’s guidelines.

“This is a fool’s choice,” Floyd said. “A short term gain for a long term loss.”

There were 800 new cases of COVID-19 and 6 deaths in Riverside County during the weekend leading up to the board meeting Oct. 6.

DIEGO LOMELI | VIEWPOINTS

Supervisor Karen Spiegel speaks about reopening plans during the Riverside County Board of Supervisors meeting Oct. 6.

October 15, 2020

News

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PHOTO COURTESY OF BRENDA FLOWERS

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDYMELENDREZ.COM

Patricia Lock Dawson is a member of the Riverside Unified School District Board of Andy Melendrez, is in his fourth term on the Riverside City Council. He attended Riverside City College and has a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree Education. While working with RUSD Dawson has served on the Board of Behavioral Sciences. She has a Master of Science in forestry and watershed management. in educational counseling.

Notable Riverside officials run for mayor

MAYOR from page 1 of a regional approach to homelessness.

Melendrez’s plan calls for Riverside to teach neighboring areas how to provide aid by applying for grants, but the council member questioned the effectiveness of nonprofits, such as Path of Life Ministries, in handling the issue.

He argued Path of Life was partly responsible for the Skid Row-like encampment on Massachusetts Avenue and that his advocacy helped secure the CARES Act funding that allowed for the recent clearing of the area.

“We rented blocks of hotel rooms so that the homeless who were living there were offered temporary housing,” Melendrez said by phone Oct. 7. “While they were in temporary housing, we reached out to them with mental health services, connected them with family. That’s the way homeless services should operate.”

The candidates acknowledged the reality that COVID-19 will impact life in Riverside for an extended period of time. Dawson said that, under her leadership, the

city will keep cases and deaths down and see the return of a thriving economy.

“We have taken a huge hit in tax revenues because of the closures of so many businesses,” she said. “We need to have that stuff come back to help the city with economic recovery, but we need to find a creative path forward.”

Dawson proposed increased outdoor dining as a means to help businesses flourish.

Along with outdoor dining, Melendrez said businesses will increase their utilization of apps and other technology to survive and continue to sell. Minimal face-to-face contact, smaller retail spaces and increased online sales will characterize business in Riverside a year from now, the council member said.

The candidates have sparred over the state of Riverside’s budget and looming pension liabilities.

The pension obligations, reported at $531.6 million in 2018, have caused worry over a potential insolvency in the coming years.

Riverside is using pension obligation bonds to pay its unfunded liabilities, a tactic Dawson likened to using one

credit card to pay off another.

She has claimed the city is facing bankruptcy and argued balancing Riverside’s budget in the way the school district’s is would be a better approach.

According to Dawson, RUSD set aside a trust fund to meet pension obligations annually to keep them from growing over time. The school district also offered employees compensation that does not add to pension debt.

“When you give somebody a cash increase in their salary, that increases your pension debt,” she said. “If you give them no outof-pocket healthcare, that doesn’t add to your pension debt. That’s still a huge benefit.”

Dawson also proposed refinancing existing debt and making appropriate cuts after negotiations with the community.

Melendrez argued the idea that Riverside is going broke is based on outdated reports. “ We ’ r e n o t g o i n g i n t o bankruptcy,” he said. “Obviously we have to watch every nickel and dime we spend, but we are in good shape.”

The council member went on to say pension obligation bonds have worked in the past and,

although it will take time, the debt will drop.

Dawson said she intends to tap into green technology to attract high paying jobs to the area.

The city hosts a California Air Resources Board facility, as well as the Center for Environmental Research and Technology at UC Riverside.

“We have the opportunity to brand Riverside as the city that you come to for green jobs, that you invest in if you’re a green industry,” she said.

Melendrez highlighted the potential of the area’s legal and medical industries in attracting higher paying jobs to Riverside.

The council member questioned why, with all of the quality hospitals and higher education institutions in the area, Riverside still does not have a children’s hospital or a law school.

“The services they have in Los Angeles, Orange County and San Diego, we should have those here,” he said. “We’re a big enough area.”

Both candidates argued Riverside is addressing the issue of police-community relations and said public safety is not an area where they would make cuts.

Melendrez said voters decided against cutting police programs when they ratified Measure Z in 2016.

The council member argued the city’s policing went through reform as a result of the death of Tyisha Miller, a 19-year-old Black woman who was shot by officers at a Riverside gas station in 1998.

He said that, as chair of the Safety Committee in 2006, he pushed for retraining of officers after the shooting of Lee Deante Brown, 30, at the Welcome Inn on University Avenue. It was found Brown was off his medication at the time, according to Melendrez.

“I saw the transition being made, but it’s important to keep improving,” Melendrez said.

Dawson argued more community policing would ensure police are kept out of situations where they are not necessary.

She also pointed to the work of the Riverside Coalition for Police Accountability, a group that aims to mend the relationship between law enforcement and the community, as an example of what the city is doing to address the matter.

The election will be held Nov. 3.

8

October 15, 2020

LIFE

“It’s Halloween, everyone’s entitled to good scare.”

- Sheriff Leigh Brackett, Halloween (1978)

IMAGE COURTESY OF DICK THOMAS JOHNSON | WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Disney’s “Frankenweenie,” released in 2012, is an animated remake of the 1984 film. It stars Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara and was written and directed by Tim Burton.

Three family-friendly movies for the season Grab some snacks and watch these fun-for-all classic flicks STEPHANIE ARENAS STAFF REPORTER

Sadly, things are not looking good for Halloween lovers this year. From the looks of it, the popular holiday may need to be canceled.

However, that does not mean you cannot celebrate from the comfort of your own home alongside your family. With some popcorn, a nice pumpkin-scented candle and a cozy Halloween film, you will definitely get into the spirit.

Here are three family-friendly Halloween films to get you in the spooky mood.

Frankenweenie (2012) Yo u n g s c i e n t i s t Vi c t o r Frankenstein is left feeling alone and miserable without the company of his best friend Sparky who is hit and killed by a car.

However, when science teacher Mr. Rzykruski demonstrates an experiment involving the effects of electricity on a dead frog, Victor is inspired to dig up his dog’s corpse and bring him into his makeshift lab.

Victor successfully brings Sparky back to life with the help

of lightning, but a fellow classmate sees the reanimated dog and tells the whole school.

Because of this, other classmates are determined to recreate Victor’s experiment in order to win the science fair. This leads to a world of consequences.

While many may agree that “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is the better Tim Burton film, I personally believe “Frankenweenie” is superior. It is delicate, pleasant, charming and fun for the whole family.

The Witches (1990) While on vacation with his grandmother, 9-year-old Luke accidentally spies on a convention of witches. Luke discovers the witches are plotting to turn all the children in the world into mice with the help of a magic spell.

The Grand High Witch comes across Luke’s eavesdropping and turns him into a little mouse. Luke manages to escape without getting killed by the witches.

Wi t h t h e h e l p o f h i s grandmother and friend Bruno, who has also been turned into a mouse, Luke must find a way to turn back into a human and defeat the witches once and for all.

This film is light-hearted and exciting for the whole family. A

remake starring Anne Hathaway and Octavia Spencer is in the works, with the release date being in 2021.

The Addams Family (1991) Created in 1938 by cartoonist Charles Addams, the Addams Family became a household name.

It revolves around gothic parents Morticia and Gomez Addams and their children Wednesday and Pugsley.

A remake of the classic film was released in 1991 and became an instant hit.

After a man who claims to be a long lost Addams family member, Uncle Fester, shows up at the family’s door, Gomez happily lets him in believing he is his brother.

H o w e v e r, M o r t i c i a a n d Wednesday believe the man is a fraud, as he cannot recall certain details of his own life.

Uncle Fester grows close to the family, especially the children, but feels conflicted for not being honest about who he truly is.

It’s a simple plot. But the film is fun, entertaining and has a satisfying ending.

The movie in itself is a bit on the raunchier side, as it involves adult humor and sexual innuendos, so be cautious when watching with children.

ILLUSTRATION BY JULIAN NAVARRO | VIEWPOINTS

“The Witches,” released in 1990, starred Anjelica Huston as the Grand High Witch. It was based on the 1993 book by Roald Dahl.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SIMONPRIOR.COM

“The Addams Family,” released in 1991, stars Anjelica Huston, Raul Julia and Christopher Lloyd. It is based on a fictional household created by cartoonist Charles Addams in 1938.

10

October 15, 2020

Life

Drinks, activities to kick off the holiday Delightful fall refreshers spice up any chilly day this season ALYSSA ALDRETE

of these lattes.

Trader Joe’s is located at 6225 Riverside Plaza Dr. in Riverside and opens at 8 a.m.

STAFF REPORTER

Admit it: as soon as you hear that first crunch of a fallen leaf beneath your shoe, as soon as the temperature takes the slightest dip and you feel that first little gust of win, your taste buds are suddenly solely controlled by the pumpkin spice gods.

No blame will go around for celebrating the spooky season with a fall-flavored beverage in hand. But before you set pumpkin spice latte to auto-order at Starbucks, allow me to present you with six different options, both classic and innovative, that are sure to make your taste buds rise from the grave.

Havok’s Harvest shake from Monty’s Good Burger This shake is definitely kickstarting this list for a reason: it’s thick, decadent pumpkin flavor is blended with an oat-based vanilla soft serve and served in between two layers of delicious crumbled pie crust. It truly is like drinking pumpkin pie from a cup.

Monty’s is known for its flavor-of-the-month shakes, and this particular one was created alongside AFI frontman Davey Havok, making it a must for the month of October.

Head over to the Riverside Food Lab to get one while supplies last.

Monty’s Good Burger is located at 3605 Market St. in Riverside and opens at 11 a.m.

Spiced Apple Cider Although apple cider hits the shelves at virtually every supermarket once October starts, I stand by my opinion that Trader Joe’s offers the best option to this sweet and cozy drink, short of making your own at a cider mill.

This blend of apple juice, allspice and orange peels comes in a huge 64 ounce jug and is just waiting to be served hot next to a cozy fire, or chilled as a complement to your autumninspired dinners.

IMAGE COURTESY OF JILL WELLINGTON | PIXABAY

These pumpkin festive mugs emit a warm, comforting feel perfect for the start to the Fall season. From coffees, to shakes and lattes in seasonal flavors, they make for the perfect drink on a cold day.

Apple Pie and Pumpkin Pie shakes from Plant Power Fast Food In the spirit of flavor-of-themonth, Plant Power decided to level up and offer two creamy options: Pumpkin Pie and Apple Pie. Although the pumpkin shake is undoubtedly a heavenly combination of the classic clove and nutmeg flavors, it really is the apple shake you have to come here to buy.

This shake finds the perfect balance of tart apples and the sweet bitters of cinnamon and whips them all into one drink that recalls the flavor of that after-Thanksgiving Dutch Apple

ala mode.

Plant Power Fast Food is located at 3940 University Ave. in Riverside and opens at 7 a.m.

Maple Iced Latte from The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf It seems as though this season, everyone is game for a fall flavor besides pumpkin. Enter pumpkin’s forgotten seasonal cousin: maple. Coffee Bean is featuring a maple flavor that can be made hot, iced or blended and paired with oat milk. It will trick your senses into thinking you are having fresh pancakes on Halloween morning.

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf is located at 3545 Central

Ave. in Riverside and opens at 5 a.m.

Trader Joe’s Maple Oat Beverage and Silk Pumpkin Almond Creamer If you are trying to start pinching those pennies for the holidays headed toward us and prefer an at-home alternative to fall-flavored coffees, then pick up these two grocery store options.

Trader Joe’s carries a mapleflavored oat creamer that is a coffee match made in heaven.

And Silk’s new Pumpkin Almond Creamer is the closest you will ever get to the pumpkin spice latte from home. Remember, no cows were harmed in the making

Howling Gourds Pumpkin Ale This one’s for the 21 and over crowd whose fall festivities include a good brew in hand.

Another Trader Joe’s gem, this Howling Gourd Pumpkin Ale is heavier on the allspice than other seasonal craft beers on the market, but the drinkability is still there.

The spices smooth out on the palate as you get to the body of the beer and can be a great addition to your quarantine-style pumpkin carving night.

And there you have it: six more options to fill your fall cup with joy.

Pick one, or all, as the month unravels and curl up in front of your favorite horror movie as a way to happily host your festivities from home.

Spookify your to-do list by adding cool activities this month KYIESHA CHAVEZ STAFF REPORTER

Halloween 2020 is special for three reasons: it falls on a Saturday, it will be a blue moon, the second full moon of the month and we move our clocks back for daylight saving time.

It would be a shame to miss out on such an amazingly spooky day.

While trick-or-treating and costume parties are discouraged this year to reduce the risk of furthering the transmission of COVID-19, we can still show off our spooky spirit at home.

Here are some activities to keep the spirit of Halloween alive this month.

The first, and most obvious, activity is to dress up. There are many 2020 appropriate costumes that could be worn, including Zoom zombies, healthcare professionals and Black Panther, in honor of the late Chadwick

Boseman. You could even dress up throughout the week leading up to the big day, whether you’re walking your dog or having a Zoom call with friends.

Halloween-themed masks are also a good way to express yourself if you don’t want to dress up completely. Just remember that costume masks are not a good substitute for protective face coverings to be worn in public.

Another activity to keep out the pandemic blues is to decorate.

Outdoor Halloween decorations are a must-have year round.

Why not switch it up a bit and bring those decorations inside?

Make the inside of your home look like a scene out of your favorite spooky movie.

Love the “Halloweentown” franchise?

You could recreate the iconic pumpkin and place it proudly in your living room.

If you’re a huge Harry Potter fan, then the floating candles in the Great Hall of Hogwarts would

PHOTO COURTESY OF KAROLINA GRABOWSKA | PEXELS

This season helps bring along many festive decorations that most of us look forward to as the year comes to an end. Spider web props are a major part of the spooky-season. be a wonderful addition to your home.

If you’re looking for activities that don’t require as much effort,

there are still plenty of options.

Spooky movie nights are a must. Those can range from Disney films like “Hocus

Pocus” to cult classics like “The Shining.”

You can enjoy all sorts of spooky movies on Freeform’s “31 Days of Halloween” or the “Huluween” special section.

If you’re a fan of podcasts, there’s plenty of episodes out there that discuss horror and supernatural topics.

I recommend the “Scared to Death” series hosted by horror fan Dan Cummins as he attempts to terrify his wife Lynze every week.

Last but not least, if you own a Nintendo Switch, you could celebrate Halloween on the video game “Animal Crossing.”

Nintendo released a fall update that allows players to grow pumpkins, stock up on candy, buy costumes and learn DIY projects from neighbors.

They’ve also planned a fun event taking place Oct. 31 after 5 p.m.

No matter what you decide to do this Halloween with your friends and family, just make sure you have fun and stay safe.

October 15, 2020

Life

11

JUSTIN YOTH | VIEWPOINTS

85°C Bakery Cafe has many locations in Southern California, including Rancho Cucamonga, Claremont, Chino Hills, Orange, Tustin and Irvine.

Quality Taiwanese bakery offers a unique experience Renowned chain highlights popular culture of Asian cuisine JUSTIN YOTH ASSISTANT LIFE EDITOR

A Forbes-listed Taiwanese businessman had a vision after visiting a five-star hotel in 2004.

Cheng-Hsueh Wu had the idea that people should be able to enjoy baked delights at low costs. He birthed the first 85°C Bakery Cafe in Irvine, California in 2008.

Now a chain, 85°C is based in Taipei, Taiwan, but can be found in four U.S. states and has grown to over 1,000 locations worldwide.

The cafe received considerable coverage and positive reception, being highlighted by TIME, CNN, NPR and the Travel Channel.

The chain is named after the temperature at which coffee is best consumed, symbolizing balance and flavor.

The popular culture of Asian cuisine is central to 85°C, which offers smoothies, coffees and cakes and specializes in baked goods that are prepared freshly and continuously throughout the day.

Boba, the squishy dark balls often prepared with smoothies or coffees, is just another example of the offerings central to the popularity of Asian cultural cuisine at this spot.

Restaurant services are up and running at the Irvine

JUSTIN YOTH | VIEWPOINTS

85°C Bakery offers a wide selection of sugary drinks and baked goods, from almond half-moon cake to garlic cheese bread. location. The bakery remains busy with customers lining up to buy these renowned sweets.

Customers walk in a line, pick their treats and place them onto

a tray as they gather toward the cashier.

The bakery offers beverages ranging from smoothies to coffees, such as the “Sea Salt

Coffee,” and more. It offers up to 50 different types of pastries, bread and cakes.

Some of my personal favorites are the milk custard

cakes and the garlic jalapeno cream cheese bread. They are easy to eat and soft to the touch.

Other personal picks are the swirl chocolate or matcha sponge cakes, the blueberry cream cheese breads and the almond “Half Moon” cake, which is similar to an angel cake.

It is especially light, airy and spongy. The garlic and cheese breads never fail in taste and are always excellent in quality.

Most of these desserts are not too sweet and go well with coffee and other beverages.

The bakery also offers the “Black Forest,” a delicious concoction of chocolate, cherries and vanilla cream.

The chain warns that its equipment is shared with common food allergens, so be advised. That being said, lots of the foods contain gluten, sodium and a high sugar content, so limiting your selection will be desirable if you are concerned with your daily calorie intake.

There’s no need to worry about the quality of the food shifting between locations. The chain adopts its specialized recipes throughout all of its locations.

In accordance with the reopenings, the bakeries have been catering to customers from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., depending on the location.

I encourage you to take a trip to your nearest 85°C Bakery Cafe.

You will not be disappointed.

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October 15, 2020

VIEWS

“It is better to debate a question without setting it than to settle a question without debating it ” - Joseph Joubert

Marrying without a prenup can cost you Celebrities dish out $30,000 a month in spousal support

ASHLEY HAYNER OPINIONS EDITOR

Love is said to be a beautiful thing.

If you find it, don’t ever lose it.

Many adore the idea of marrying their high school sweetheart or finding their significant other right after high school. Having a fairytale wedding is ideal for a lot of young women.

But what happens when you’ve spent what seems like an eternity with your lover and things just aren’t working out and you’re forced to call it quits?

You should be able to walk away and that’s that.

But that’s not always the case.

An annoying law in place called alimony requires a person to continue to support their spouse either before or after marital separation.

Dr. Dre, founder and CEO of Aftermath Entertainment and Beats Electronics, is currently

undergoing a ghastly divorce battle with his wife of 24 years.

Nicole Young demanded that Dr. Dre pay her $2 million a month in alimony. Dr. Dre isn’t the only victim when it comes to outrageous demands. Other celebrities, including women, are ordered to pay ridiculous amounts in spousal support as well.

Kevin Dillon pays $7,214 a month to his ex-wife Jane Stuart.

Singer and Grammy Award winner Mary J. Blige, who doesn’t even have children with her ex-husband Kendu Isaacs, is ordered to pay him $30,000 a month. Isaacs even asked for an increase of $65,000 a month due to his alleged inability to find decent work.

TV host and actress Aisha Tyler has been ordered to pay her ex-husband Jeff Tietgens $31,250 a month over the next four years, along with an additional $500,000. Actress and Comedian Sherri Shepherd pays her ex-husband Lamar Sally $4,100 a month. The two were married just four years and share a child that Shepherd is not even the biological mother of.

Comedian and actor Mike Epps pays a hefty monthly spousal support totaling $109,000 a month due to his ex-wife Mechelle Epps having to pay for their three daughters’ private schools and birthday parties. She claimed that, at 36 years old, she is too old to find a job and foot the bill completely.

Most people get together

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVE BUISSINNE | PIXABAY

According to the American Psychological Association, 40-50% of marriages in the U.S. end in divorce. because of romantic, mutually shared feelings for one another.

But in many cases, spouses have other motives.

When getting romantically involved with someone, you should be with them because you love them, not because of the money. No one should have to pay thousands of dollars for wanting to go their separate ways, let alone any amount.

Yo u m u s t b e c a u t i o u s investing your love and time into anyone before you set anything

in stone. Opt for a prenuptial agreement to protect your own assets and belongings.

A lot of people argue that opting for a prenup means that the love is not real. In the end, if you really love someone, why worry about a prenup?

The material things “owed” to you should be the least of your worries.

Don’t end up like others who let friends and family influence their decisions. You know your relationship better than anybody.

If there is no trust, get out while you still can. If you got with them when they were broke, you can leave the relationship broke.

If you’re leaving that person and no longer want to be with them, you leave the fancy cars and lifestyle too. Granted a man should pay child support even in the case of a divorce due to his wife’s infidelity. But he should not be charged with maintaining his cheating wife’s lifestyle.

Don’t be a victim of alimony.

Get a prenup.

Lack of COVID-19 plan stalls reopening efforts Trump’s cult of personality buys into politicization of science

ERIK GALICIA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

It has been seven months since businesses shut down, people began suffocating to death and the world changed for the long run.

Yes, COVID-19 is here to stay. One of the main reasons it seems like it will never die is our

uncoordinated response.

Take a look around the world.

Several developed countries, even ones hit hard by coronavirus early on, began a coordinated reopening long ago.

Germany, like the United States, runs on a federal system that delegates much of its governmental decisions to provinces and local municipalities. Like in the U.S., there was bickering and blame thrown around. But Chancellor Angela Merkel issued a sciencebased emergency federal mandate on COVID-19 safety all the way back in March.

German children were back in school at the start of the fall 2020 semester.

But there’s no place like home, where the president calls a virus that has killed over one million people worldwide a “Democratic hoax” and ends up catching it himself — don’t take

IMAGE COURTESY OF FRANKUNDFREI | PIXABAY

The CDC reports 215,194 people have died of Covid-19 in the U.S. his word for it though, he’d fake a heart attack to get you to forget about the $750 he paid in taxes a few years ago.

The problem here is the rise of the fringes of society into the mainstream. While the left and right exist everywhere, science is not as politicized in other countries as it is here.

For example, scientists in other countries can lean right and still

agree that climate change is real.

In the good ol’ USA, “science is the devil” is now a prevalent belief.

President Donald Trump — the demagogue with a personality cult comparable to that of Jim Jones — failed to issue a federal mandate on masks, social distancing and other precautionary measures, instead allowing states, counties and

cities to decide for themselves.

The move was well-played when considering his motives: reinforce that Trump means freedom and Democrats mean totalitarianism.

Different states have taken different paths, as have cities and counties, due to the lack of leadership from the top. The fear of an overbearing federal government is perfectly rational and exists on both sides of the political aisle, but we are living through a pandemic. If anything should have united our country, it should have been our COVID-19 response.

No one wants to be home. It is a fact that working class people are struggling financially and we should be finding ways to return to work as quickly as possible.

But, without a uniform effort — and with winter around the corner — experts say we will continue to see setbacks.

Views

October 15, 2020

13

PHOTO COURTESY OF PEXELS

Black Lives Matter disingenuous Activist organization hides true political motives

DIEGO LOMELI STAFF REPORTER

The United States of America is more divided now, in 2020, than ever before. We turn to the news and what do we see?

Rival factions layered in either makeshift or military grade body armor fighting in the streets of our nation.

As amusing as it is to consider American policemen as enforcers of some grand Orwellian scheme designed to keep a firm choke-hold on the population, it is their primary contenders that should be hoarding everyone’s concern.

I am referring to the Black Lives Matter organization.

Before anything, it is important to acknowledge those who simultaneously participate in the informal variant of the movement and prioritize a peaceful approach to protest.

The organization has been largely condemned by many Americans, and although its underlying motives are troublesome, I think we can all collectively stand behind the inherent meaning of the phrase “Black Lives Matter.”

BLM, as an organization, is disingenuous about the wellbeing of Black lives. Its fundamental ambitions center on revolution, specifically a call to replace the “Western-prescribed

nuclear family structure” for “‘villages’ that collectively care for one another, especially our children, to the degree that mothers, parents, and children are comfortable.” These claims were once proudly displayed on the Black Lives Matter website’s “What We Believe” page.

As of Sept. 21, that page has been removed and no longer exists. What remains is a much shorter list of goals that goes on about inclusivity — tackling oppression, liberation, narrowing nationalism and a few more things.

Aside from that, the BLM organization, co-founded by Patrisse Cullors, Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi, has roots in Marxism.

“We are trained Marxists,” Cullors has said. “We are superversed on, sort of, ideological theories.”

Marxism, by definition, is a worker-led revolution that aims to overthrow capitalism in favor of communism.

Just from that, we should have quickly realized that BLM is adamant about inciting civil unrest in order to achieve a specific agenda. Not only that, it also has no clear intention of creating “a world where Black lives are no longer systematically targeted for demise,” as their website claims.

If you’re paying attention, you cannot look past the obvious evidence that a shockingly large number of BLM members and affiliates have adopted and continue to employ violent behavior.

Following the death of George Floyd on May 26 was an ongoing series of protests that began in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With that came the destruction of property, vandalism and arson. By June,

the property damage was an estimated $55 million, and at least 220 buildings were set on fire, according to the Associated Press.

The destruction of property was not exclusive to Minnesota however, as small businesses in cities like Austin, St. Paul, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Chicago and New York have also been directly affected. Not to mention the various American flags that BLM has burned and the many people they have physically harmed.

This kind of behavior is severely counterproductive to what they claim to achieve some day.

BLM has effectively neglected the civil approach to reaching a rational consensus, instead using violence and disrespect.

This is all an aggravation incited by the radical left and it fuels the raging fire that is pent up frustration and resentment from the BLM organization.

Has any progress that genuinely benefits our society actually been made? No, none at all.

Even then, why would BLM actively try to work towards a better society? They rely on things like controversy and White guilt to expand their superficial narrative to young minds. Many young people

hesitate to express their criticism regarding BLM because we as a society have deemed it wrong to do so.

It is safer to join them than it is to criticize them. The organization that preaches inclusivity and social justice is the same that quickly calls people racist, bigoted, privileged, bootlicker, transphobic and much worse.

Instead of real progress, we devoted our time to developing a comprehensive checklist that, if checked off entirely, confirms that you are undeniably on the right side of history. If you disagree with it in the slightest way, then obviously you are apathetic to racial justice.

When an argument erupts between two opposing groups, the ideal outcome would be both groups eventually leaving the discussion more knowledgeable and open-minded than before.

Logically, this can only work if both groups are reasonably open-minded to begin with.

Arguing has several tacit rules that make sure the contention does not derail itself and turn into something more extreme.

BLM embodies pretty much everything that is detrimental to a productive argument: things like egotism, condescension and sheer lack of respect for any point of view that doesn’t match up with theirs.

We need to call it out for what it is: a form of contemporary fascism, and it is spreading at a terrifying rate.

It is clear as day that this is an attack on freedom of speech.

Without the constant exchange of conflicting ideas, ignorance and backwardness begin to prosper and, consequently, genuine knowledge is suppressed.

To exemplify this attack on free speech practically, we can turn to the incident at Loyola University Chicago. On Aug. 29 and the days that followed, Loyola University Chicago’s student newspaper, The Loyola Phoenix, covered a series of protests supporting BLM at the university.

Seven people, six of which were Loyola students, were arrested for refusing to disperse after the police had instructed them to do so. The protests took place on and around campus and called for the university to provide better support for Black students and cut ties with the Chicago Police Department.

Things turned for the worse when The Loyola Phoenix published videos of the protesters being taken into custody on their Twitter page.

The student publication was subsequently contacted and berated by numerous people, calling for the videos to be taken down and going as far as saying that the publication brought participants unnecessary trauma.

Somehow we are becoming accustomed to letting emotion defeat logic and to letting political figures encourage irrationally vile methods of keeping many Americans from speaking their minds.

We need to call it out for what it is: a form of contemporary fascism. It is spreading at a terrifying rate.

Hopefully soon, we can learn from the world’s history and devise a counter-measure based on logic and freedom.

Views

October 15, 2020

Editorial

14

IMAGE COURTESY OF PIXABAY

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were an estimated 245.5 million adults in the country in November 2016, but only 136.8 million voted.

Put your vote where your mouth is

Activism of the year ineffective without political participation Statistically, the 18-24 age group has been the least active in voting since 1964.

According to a 2014 U.S. Census Bureau report, America’s youngest voters have moved toward less engagement over time. Voting rates among the 18-24 age group dropped from 50.9% in 1964 to 38% in 2012.

The numbers have fluctuated over the past few elections, but it is crucial that young adults take initiative in order to become represented in America’s current social climate.

The sociopolitical climate that arose during the last few years makes voter input for the 2020 election pivotal in determining the outcome of political events in the next four years.

The Black Lives Matter protests seen this year are just a few indicators of the deeply rooted social issues that the younger generations are facing.

The Trump Administration has opted for provocative measures, rather than productive responses, to tackle these issues. The president has not provided inclusiveness on the American stage. His administration’s handling of COVID-19 has resulted in massive unemployment rates and avoidable deaths.

Americans are infuriated, but they must take that fury into the voting booth.

Voter disengagement numbers are strikingly high. That needs to change during this election, or the activism of the year will lose its effectiveness.

Millennials and Generation Z have shown how important this election is to them and how they want to take control of their futures.

This important turn of interest in politics in young voters is going to play an essential role in how this year’s elections will turn out.

With the increase of young voters, many

states that have historically voted for a certain party are now swing states, which has made this year’s election anyone’s game.

However, if this age group does not take the initiative to participate in the November presidential election, then the status quo may continue to persist and those who do not take serious action will be complacent, whether or not they disapprove of the current state of affairs.

If one decides not to vote, regardless of the age range, it can pose serious consequences for the upcoming four years of the presidency.

Apart from the presidency, in California there is much else at stake. Propositions on affirmative action, school funding and ending cash bail are all on the ballot. Many of the issues young people have been fighting for are up for grabs.

The fight for the future is here now.

Viewpoints’ editorials represent the majority opinion of and are written by the Viewpoints’ student editorial board.

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16

October 15, 2020

Los Angeles Lakers win first title in 10 years

SPORTS

“Everything negative - pressure, challenges - is all an opportunity for me to rise.”

-Kobe Bryant

JESUS CORONEL STAFF REPORTER

After an almost year-long season, the death of a legend and life in the NBA bubble, the Los Angeles Lakers have finally won their first championship since 2010.

The moves the team made to get to this very moment have paid off. Trading away four first-round draft picks and several players for center Anthony Davis was a big step toward a championship.

The world lost all-time great Kobe Bryant in February. But the organization used this tragedy as fuel to make him proud. The 52-19 record and a number one seed in the Western Conference was a sign of what was to come in the playoffs.

With Davis and LeBron James leading the way, the Lakers cruised through the first round of the playoffs against the Portland Trailblazers, then the second round against the Houston Rockets and finally the Western Conference Finals against the Denver Nuggets, reaching the NBA Finals against the Miami Heat.

The Lakers won games one and two of the finals in convincing fashion, but the Heat won game three under Jimmy Butler’s 40-point triple-double, halving the Lakers’ series lead 2-1. But the Lakers went on to win game four under James’ near triple-double, leaving them one win away from the title.

The 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers are the only team in NBA history to come back from a 3-1 deficit and win the NBA Championship.

The Heat tried hard to become the second team to achieve that feat.

Butler led the Heat to an improbable victory in game 5 with a 35-point triple-double, playing all but one minute of that game.

But in Game 6, the Lakers led by 28 points at halftime and cruised their way to victory with an impressive performance from James. And with that, the Lakers are the 2020 NBA Champions.

James not only earned his fourth championship, but was also awarded his fourth Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP award for leading his team to the championship.

Bryant would be proud.

MATHEW ACOSTA | VIEWPOINTS

Children warm up for soccer practice with their trainers Oct. 10 at Patricia Birdsall Sports Park in Temecula. The City SC soccer club has been holding weekly training camps for children who want to develop their soccer skills. COVID-19 symptom checks were in effect.

Youth sports return in Temecula Community soccer club puts on training camp for children DANIELA RAMIREZ STAFF REPORTER

A nonprofit in Temecula is safely creating memories for children during sports drought of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Every Saturday at Patricia Birdsall Sports Park in Temecula, City SC Soccer Club, a nonprofit organization, allows children of all ages to come out to learn basic and advanced soccer skills. It also allows them to be active, get fresh air and see their friends.

Jason Stewart, 16, of Temecula, and Eli Mendoza, 16, of Hemet volunteer as youth coaches. The boys also play for the City SC soccer club.

They spend their Saturdays teaching kids from ages 5-12 basic soccer skills.

“It’s so much fun coming out here and teaching the kids,” Stewart said.

These high school boys, who have not spent time with their friends in a while, said they appreciate the time outdoors.

“When I come out to play soccer, I make the most of it,” Mendoza said.

Angelo Fiorini, 42, of Temecula, has been coaching soccer since 2013. Fiorini, one of the club directors, said he felt a lot of children were missing the fundamentals of soccer and wanted to fill that missing piece.

“To judge yourself as a coach, it’s not the wins,” he said. “It’s

the impact.”

Director Mike Richards, 54, also of Temecula, rebranded the program last year, combining two other clubs in Carlsbad and San Marcos. He has been with City SC for ten years.

Richards highlighted the importance of sports, especially during these difficult times.

“The youth program is something that can really help the physical and, of course, the mental well-being for the kids,” Richards said.

Rachel Sebastian, 10, of Temecula, has been playing soccer for three years. She has dreams of playing soccer at the college level one day.

“I love soccer,” Sebstian said.

“It’s my favorite sport.”

Sebastian, a fifth grader, said she misses her friends but that playing soccer at the club makes her very happy.

Youth soccer programs give young kids a head start in their soccer careers. Many top professional soccer athletes started off in youth programs like the American Youth Soccer Organization and City SC Soccer Club. Landon Donovan, a retired Los Angeles Galaxy player, began playing with an organized soccer club at six years old in Redlands.

According to Richards, City SC is intends to build up community.

“That’s why it’s ‘City’ in our name,” he said. “Because of the focus on community.”

MATHEW ACOSTA | VIEWPOINTS

Rachel Sebastian, 10, kicks a soccer ball Oct. 10 at Patricia Birdsall Sports Park in Temecula. Sebastian, a fifth grader, said she dreams of playing soccer at the college level when she grows up.