RIVERSIDE CITY COLLEGE
“That’s honestly one of the best games we’ve ever played - attacker Yosra Elseiff
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Student falls from Math and Science Building
A student fell from the Riverside City College Math and Science Building, according to the Riverside Community College District.
VIEWPOINTS STAFF & was transported to hospital.” The message then provided resources for students affected. “Counseling available via Health Services. More info to follow.”
The incident occurred at approximately 9 a.m. on Oct. 23. However, students were not notified until 11:54 a.m. when an RCCD Urgent Alert was sent out.
The message said, “Student fell from RCC Math & Science building
Professors were told that the incident was a result of a student undergoing an epileptic episode. The student was reported to have fallen from the third floor of the building and was immediately transported to the hospital.
RCCD public information officer Chris Clarke provided
information on the status of the student.
“I understand that he has some broken bones and has some internal bleeding, but he is in surgery right now,” Clarke said.
“There are counseling services available through the health services on campus,” he said. “When we called health services, they said they are available to take students and help them with counseling.”
There is no further information.
Nicole Robertson,#7, from Riverside City College Woman’s Water Polo scores against Long Beach Woman’s Water Polo in the 3rd quarter on Oct. 19. MAC WILSON | VIEWPOINTS
IZABELLA DE LA ROSA | VIEWPOINTS
Early morning on Oct. 23 police vehicles block Fairfax Ave. near Math and Science building, monitoring the scene where a student reportedly fell.
Managing Editor: Natalie Strain | Viewpoints@rcc.edu
UCR gives updates on student housing
ANNA SCHWABE AND NATALIE STRAIN
NEWS REPORTER AND MANAGING EDITOR
New details have emerged regarding the student housing for RCC students which is currently under construction on the University of California, Riverside campus.
In an email sent by RCC to students, housing is expected to be available for selected students in August. A projected date for when students can apply has not yet been released.
Melissa Garrety is the Senior Project Planner for this new housing project, titled North District Phase 2.
When asked about how the project came to fruition Melissa says, “The main driving force is that the state made available this grant money for student housing. Obviously UCR and RCC have a need, a significant need. Enrollment at UCR has increased tremendously over the past decades. It has at RCC as well.”
Due to the lack of additional space on RCC’s campus, housing was constructed at UCR.
“UCR and RCC have a long history of working together and offering pipeline programs to get RCC students over to UCR but had not ever partnered on a housing project before,” Garrety said.
When asked how city college students could benefit from being part of the university campus, Garrety said, “Being able to envision yourself there and see
University of California, Riverside showcases their plan for the UCR and Riverside City College student housing initiative.
it and experience it and taste it so to speak, really builds the appetite and the desire and the motivation to have the full experience when you transfer.”
The new housing project will have mixed dorms where students from both the city college and university will be housed together. Out of the 1568 beds becoming available, 326 are reserved for RCC students.
In regards to rent prices, Garrety said, “The number that I have is right around $800, but RCC would be managing their portion of the housing.”
It is undetermined if additional fees will be added to the cost.
Utilities will be included for
UCR students, but information on whether they will be included for RCC students is not available yet.
When asked if students would have access to free or reduced priced rent, Garrety responded, “So that $800 rent fee is already subsidized. Not all of the units will be at $800. It’s a mix of market rate and subsidized units. All of the RCC units are subsidized units.”
In regards to utilities and amenities, internet service will be included with rent. While it is uncertain if RCC students will have access to meal services, there is a small cafe in the building. Students will also be able to purchase meals in the campus cafeteria. For security, the University of
California Police Department will be available to the campus.
An email sent out to students from RCC elaborates on the amenities.
“You will have access to onsite study and social engagement spaces, a fitness room, convenience store and more. In addition, there will be access to several studentfocused buildings on the UCR campus such as the library and dining centers.”
Dorms will be 2 bedroom apartments with double occupancy.
A student concern is if LGBTQ or sex-seperated dorms will be available. Garrety said “For UCR you can identify if you have a preference to live with someone
of the same sex as you or if you don’t care if you have a male or female roommate. You can identify that when you fill out your housing questionnaire and they do their best to accommodate. I’m not sure how RCC will handle it.”
The new dorms will be designed for single students and will not be able to accommodate student parents with children.
“I am considering applying for student housing because it would allow me to take more classes,” student David Grajeda said. “It would make my commute shorter. That would be less of an issue. It will also be good for finding community instead of being a commuter.”
College students voice concerns over fees
MARISSA PEREZ LIFE REPORTER
The word “free” has always caught attention, especially with students at Riverside City College, but what does free really mean in a swarm of fees and waivers?
The Associated Students of Riverside City College recently promoted homecoming on their Instagram by offering free T-shirts, a mechanical bull and a rodeo. But the question remains: How does ASRCC pay for these extra activities?
The answer lies in the student service fee.
According to Riverside City College , the student service fee (SSF) was implemented in 1982 to fund curricular and co-curricular programs. The fee goes to ASRCC and is distributed to other services on campus and in the city Riverside.
“It goes to counseling services, Riverside Transit Agency, Metrolink and ASRCC funds,” Alyne Bieblas, ASRCC Public Relations Director said.
In short, the $60 fee provides students with extra benefits, including one-on-one counseling, free food giveaways, admission to sports events and more.
Riverside City College students are unaware of the service fees they are paying to fund events and resource centers on campus.
Students can also save money at places in Riverside, such as Savers Thrift Stores, Shakey’s Pizza and Universal Studios, where student ID is required for discounts.
Students do have the option to waive the fee, which is available on the RCC website.
However, only 2 out of 6 students interviewed were aware
of the SSF, and those who knew were already benefiting from it.
“Sixty dollars a semester for a therapist whose rate is $220 an hour is really good,” student Victoria Ballesteros said. “I’m saving thousands of dollars.”
On the other hand, student Eddie Shateri said many students are unaware of the fee because
ASRCC has not done enough to inform them. He only discovered the SSF while browsing the college’s portal.
“It’s hidden in the portal,” he said, adding that counselors don’t mention it either.
Heidy Jimenez, another student, said she frequently visits the ASRCC Resource Center, which
is funded by the SSF. However, she admitted she had never heard of the fee.
“I had no idea about it,” she said.
Students can use this fee by visiting resource centers on campus. Food, hygiene products, mental health services and transportation can be accessed through the fee.
ANNA SCHWABE | VIEWPOINTS
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH
NEWS BRIEFS
Student Parent Family Night
RCC’s Calworks program and Student-Parent Club will be hosting a carnival-inspired family night on Nov. 8 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the RCC Cafeteria. There will be games, crafts, food and prizes available for students and their families.
Free Flu Shots
RCC will be offering free flu shots to all students and faculty on Nov. 7 and 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. outside the Landis auditorium and digital library.
Halloween Town
ASRCC will be hosting Halloween Town on Oct. 25 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the quadrangle courtyard. There will be a costume contest, trick or treating and a haunted maze available to visitors.
RCC Theater Arts Presents “How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying!”
On Nov. 7, 8 and 9, the theater arts program will be presenting the musical “How To Succeed In Business Without Trying” at 7 p.m. in the Landis Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available online for $20 for RCCD students.
Big Orange Classic
The Marching Tigers will be hosting the California State Band Championship Big Orange Classic competition on Oct. 26 from 2:00 to 9:00 p.m at Rancho Verde High School. It will feature 23 high school marching bands from across Southern California, with a performance from RCC’s very own Marching Tigers.
Election Day
On Nov. 5 from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., U.S. citizens will be able to vote for the General Election in-person at their local county elections office and any in-person voting location. Vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Nov. 5 and can be recoeived by Nov. 12.
Corrections
In print edition Vol. 103 No. 2, Rundown: Propositions for California Voters falsely stated that there would be a loan of $10. The accurate number is $10 billion.
RCC introduces new changes to MyPortal
AKIRA MORRIS AND VICTOR LEDBETTER STAFF REPORTERS
RCC has announced an update to MyPortal, the online website where students manage class registration, financial aid and other academic services.
The update includes enhancements to simplify access to critical resources and improve cybersecurity protections.
According to Christopher Blackmore, RCC’s Associate Vice Chancellor of Information Technology and Learning Systems, the most notable update to Myportal will be the support for mobile devices, which allows students to easily access the platform while on-the-go.
“The new MyPortal includes better support for mobile devices and significant ease-of-use improvements,” Blackmore said.
“These updates make it simpler for students to access important academic information, manage their schedules and communicate with the district.”
The improvements to Myportal were driven by student feedback. While the update was being developed, the Information Technology & Learning Systems team provided early access to a group of student testers who
evaluated the portal’s layouts, features and compatibility with different devices. Their feedback helped form the final result.
“We wanted to ensure MyPortal aligned with student expectations,” Blackmore said. “The input we received from students guided many of the improvements in the update.”
Addressing the security and privacy of student data, Blackmore and his crew put a “strong emphasis on cybersecurity” as he says the previous system implemented was not up to par.
“The new platform is based on modern architecture, fully supports the latest cybersecurity protocols and receives regular updates from the software vendor.”
The updates will include patches to maintain security and “follow compliance standards to protect sensitive information, ensuring data security remains a top priority.”
Even more, the updated Myportal was designed to integrate smoothly with other key systems at RCC, such as EduNav for academic planning and Parchment for transcript requests.
will expect new
“These integrations ensure that students continue to have uninterrupted access to the tools they rely on for managing their academic and administrative needs,” Blackmore said
The major challenge that was encountered was rigging the newest system to RCCD’s processes.
Blackmore said, “The flexibility of the MyPortal technology allowed us to tailor it to our needs, but this took longer than initially expected.” The team also encountered an ”unforeseen technical issue” that forced them to postpone the initial launch.
To help students adjust to the update, the Information Technology & Learning Systems team has created a support plan that includes informational videos that walk through navigating the portal.
Additionally, at the RCCD IT Help Desk, there will be a knowledge base article that provides extra information and tips.
“Our Help Desk staff are
also readily available to assist students with any issues they may encounter,” said Blackmore.
Looking ahead, the Information Technology & Learning Systems team plans to implement additional features to further personalize the student experience.
According to Blackmore, “This could include expanded mobile functionalities, more intuitive navigation and even deeper integration with future systems.”
“We will continue to gather student feedback to inform these enhancements, ensuring the platform remains aligned with their expectations,” Blackmore said.
The update is expected to be fully implemented by the end of the fall term, giving students access to the new features and improvements before the next term begins.
State chancellor highlights college priorities
MARLON CUAYA NEWS REPORTER
State Chancellor Sonua Christian chaired the first Student Media Teleconferences to inform student journalists about important policies that would impact California Community Colleges.
Oct. 2, 2024, it marked the start of the academic year’s media outreach by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. The meeting addressed all 116 community colleges in the state.
In Christian’s opening statement, she emphasized California’s Indigenous lands and peoples and the community colleges’ dedication to developing mutually beneficial connections with tribal nations. She highlighted the recent 52nd California Native American Day ceremony honoring Native American achievements and culture at the State Capitol in Sacramento.
Christian subsequently highlighted important upcoming community college events. One of the key events discussed was Undocumented Student Action Week, held on Oct. 14-18.
an in-person event at Woodland Community College on Oct. 18.
In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, Christian also underlined the contributions made by Latinx and Hispanic people and communities to the state and country.
She listed notable alumni of California Community College including former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, cofounder of UFW, Frank Cruz, cofounder of Telemundo and Dolores Huerta.
Colleges were urged to market their Hispanic Heritage Month events and help Hispanic students all year long.
Students were also reminded by Christian of important transfer deadlines. There is a deadline to apply to the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems on Nov. 30 for students transferring in fall 2025.
Her main focus was on the Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) program, which offers a pathway to admission to CSU, HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) and other related colleges.
and events.
Addressing the Community College Baccalaureate Degree Programs, Christian noted its role in offering reasonably priced bachelor’s degrees for community college attendees.
Beginning as a pilot in 2014 and now growing, the initiative lets local universities provide reasonably priced bachelor’s degrees in fields that fit the needs of the employment market. The Chancellor stated that the four new bachelor degree programs, authorized by the Board of Governors, would significantly increase students’ possibilities.
In line with this, Christian underlined the California Apprenticeship Initiative, which targets sectors like technology, education and healthcare.
The initiative aims to provide Californians opportunities and improve equity with $30 million in financing for the current fiscal year.
Specifically mentioned was the vocational Routes Demonstration Project, which gives students clear paths by converting vocational experiences into college credits.
safety protocols between high schools and colleges, with Vice Chancellor Paul Feist suggesting collaboration with Public Information Officers. Another question focused on Vision 2030 updates, namely on equality, homelessness and unemployment. The community also voiced their concerns over non-community members on campusesIn response, the chancellor stressed the need for safety procedures. Chancellor Christian finally discussed a future “State of the System” report that tracks progress on equitable issues, such as food hunger and mental health.
Members of the board also questioned the status of AB 2683, which requires sexual harassment education for students, and further information was requested. The defeat of Senate Bill 895, which sought to increase the number of nursing baccalaureate programs, raised concerns. In response, Chancellor Christian expressed sadness and emphasized the need of providing nursing education at a reasonable cost.
To stay up to date on upcoming campus events, visit the Viewpoints calendar listed at viewpointsonline. org.
If you have events happening on campus that you want featured on the calendar, send information about the event to viewpoints@rcc.edu.
The theme, “Education and Career UndocuDreams Made Possible,” highlights the importance of advocating for undocumented students.
The week-long event will include webinars and campus activities focused on raising awareness of the challenges faced by undocumented students and offering resources to support their success. Chancellor Christian also encouraged participation in
She advised students to get additional information from the “I Can Go To College” website and to get help by contacting their college transfer offices.
Late start enrollment was also praised as a flexible solution for students who missed the initial deadlines or needed additional time to register. Interested students can visit the “I Can Go To College” website to get more information about the collaborating universities
Before concluding her speech, Chancellor Christian took a moment to honor Titawny Cook, a student journalist from Chabot College who tragically lost his life while reporting on the war in Ukraine. Cook was recognized for his bravery and commitment to the truth.
During the Q&A, several key issues were raised. One question focused on media coverage of minors in dual enrollment, prompting Chancellor Christian to talk about the importance of
The Chancellor ended the Q&A segment of the teleconference by acknowledging the necessity to assist faculty despite enrollment increases.
The second season of the “Educate Elevate” podcast was advertised as the teleconference came to a close.
The podcast promotes Black and African American students to pursue education at California Community Colleges. It can be found on websites including Podbean, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH
Students
improvements to MyPortal in the following academic term.
Bill aims to help students with disabilities
MAROLN CUAYA NEWS REPORTER
Governor signed a bill that could make inclusive education for students with disabilities.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill No. 447 into law on Oct. 10 that will authorize the California State University and request the University of California to establish and maintain inclusive college programs, subject to state funding appropriations. This will impact students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Authored by Assembly Members Joaquin Arambula and Tim Grayson, with co-author Pilar Schiavo, AB 447 aims to bridge the gap in higher education opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “Our state has long recognized the importance of addressing the needs of youth with disabilities in education,” said the bill’s authors. “AB 447 will encourage California to establish inclusive college programs for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities at public four-year universities.”
These programs will offer students educational opportunities as well as vital access to social integration and career development, thereby empowering them to pursue fulfilling careers and independent lives.
Opportunities at the state’s public four-year institutions remain limited. UC Davis established its Redwood SEED Scholars Program in 2021, becoming the first four-
University of California, Davis is home to California’s first four-year inclusive college program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and serves as a model for expansion under AB 447.
year residential inclusive college program in the state. The bill seeks to replicate this model across other UC and CSU campuses, enabling students to take courses, live in on-campus housing, participate in extracurricular activities and engage in internships or employment opportunities.
This model is inspired by similar programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education through the Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Programs for Students with
Intellectual Disabilities. A 2020 survey of students who completed a TPSID program revealed that 59% of participants had secured paid employment within a year, and 26% were pursuing further education.
Under the new law, CSU campuses may, and UC campuses are requested to, establish inclusive college programs for students. These programs must provide person-centered planning, offering personalized plans tailored to each student’s goals whether pursuing a degree, certificate or work
experience. They will also ensure academic and social inclusion, giving students access to courses, housing and campus life while supporting independent living skills. The programs will focus on career preparation through integrated work experiences and prioritize strategies to recruit and support students from historically underserved communities.
The bill requires inclusive college programs to apply for federal status as a comprehensive transition and postsecondary
program, making students eligible for federal financial aid. To ensure sustainability, these programs are encouraged to seek funding from multiple sources, including the Department of Rehabilitation and regional centers.
The exact costs of implementing AB 447 are yet to be determined, though estimates suggest that startup expenses for each program could range from $2 million per campus, with the total cost depending on the number of programs launched. Program funds may be allocated for a variety of purposes, including salaries for program staff, assistive technologies, faculty training and student scholarships.
Though there may be concerns over cost pressures, supporters of the bill, including the California State Council on Developmental Disabilities, emphasize the longterm benefits. Graduates of inclusive college programs often have higher employment rates and earn more than their peers who do not have access to such services.
The passage of AB 447 highlights California’s dedication to ensuring equitable education for students with disabilities. In expanding inclusive college programs, the state is actively working to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their full potential. As these programs are implemented, students with disabilities will gain greater access to higher education and have the opportunity to enrich their lives through essential social, academic and career development.
California makes move in ending legacy admissions
MAROLN CUAYA NEWS REPORTER
California is making a historic move to promote equity in higher education, as Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a law banning legacy admissions at public and private higher institutions across the state. The law, Assembly Bill 1780, will go into effect on Sept. 1.
The bill will eliminate the practice of giving admission advantages to children of alumni or big donors, which has been criticized for giving wealthier well-connected families an unfair
edge when it comes to getting into college.
“In California, everyone should be able to get ahead through merit, skill and hard work,” Newsom said in a statement on his website. “The California Dream shouldn’t be accessible to just a lucky few, which is why we’re opening the door to higher education wide enough for everyone, fairly.”
For colleges that regularly admit a significant number of legacy students, the enactment of AB 1780 signifies an important shift. Public institutions like the University of California
eliminated legacy preferences decades ago, but this new law now requires private institutions to do the same.
The move comes as people are paying more attention to how colleges admit their students.
In the aftermath of the 2019 «Varsity Blues» scandal, which revealed the degree to which affluent families exploited money and connections to gain college admissions for their children, college admissions practices such as legacy admission have come under growing scrutiny.
With this change, California has joined Colorado and Virginia
in implementing laws that seek to make admissions more equal.
When the Supreme Court of the United States decided against affirmative action, this trend picked up speed and intensified scrutiny of other admissions practices perceived as unfair.
Increased transparency requirements, such as disclosing comprehensive demographic information on their accepted students, such as race, income and sports involvement, would be imposed on institutions found to be in violation of the ban. The law increases public accountability by listing offenders on the California
CRIME REPORT
The report accounts for Riverside City College District related crime.
Date Occured: Sunday, August 31
Date Reported: Sunday, August 31
Crime: Trespassing Location: RCC Math and Science Building Status: Processing
Date Occured: Sunday, September 1
Date Reported: Sunday, September 1
Crime: Trespassing Location: RCC Digital Library Status: Processing
Date Occured: Thursday, September 5
Date Reported: Thursday, September 5
Crime: Stolen vehicle Location: Saunders St., Electric Vehicle Stall Status: Open/Suspended
Date Occured: Wednesday, August 28
Date Reported: Monday,
September 9
Crime: Vandalism, damaged property
Location: Culinary Building Status: Open/Suspended
Date Occured: Between Friday, September 6 and Monday, September 9
Date Reported: Monday, September 9 Crime: Vandalism, Damaged Property Location: Center for Social Justice Status: Open/Suspended
Date Occured: Tuesday, September 10
Date Reported: Wednesday, September 11 Crime: Tampering with a Motor Vehicle-Theft of Motor Vehicle Parts or Accessories Location: Moreno Valley College, Lot A Status: Completed
Date Occured: Thursday, September 30
Date Reported: Thursday, September 30 Crime: Vandalism
Department of Justice’s website, even though there are no monetary consequences for noncompliance.
There is pressure on universities to comply with these new requirements, even if AB 1780 contains a possible loophole that would allow private institutions to opt out of engaging in state-funded programs like Cal Grant to preserve their traditional preferences. Nonetheless, as California is battling for fairness and merit-based admissions, this measure marks a new chapter in its attempts to change higher education.
Location: Parking Structure Status: Completed
If you or another feel your safety is at risk, please contact the RCCD Police Department at 951-2228171 for non-emergency calls, and in case of an emergency, call 9-1-1.
If a crime is witnessed and you wish to report it, please call the on-campus police at 951-222-8171 or in case of an emergency, please call 9-1-1.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH
Editor: Laura Bautista Viewpoints@rcc.edu
October 24, 2024
Ecologist discusses wildfire, ecology careers
ANNA SCHWABE LIFE REPORTER
Ecologist Taylor Zagelbaum sits at her desk in her mobile office in Riverside County’s Hidden Valley Wildlife Area. She is surrounded by posters of animals and insects, behind her a fish tank bubbles.
Zagelbaum works as a Natural Resource Specialist for Riverside County. She monitors native plant and animal species and restores natural habitats after wildfires.
“Southern California,” she beamed, “is a biodiversity hotspot. We have all these different species that reside here. It’s so wonderful.”
In California where the rate of wildfires is growing. Ecologists play an important role in rebuilding natural habitats after they have been affected by these fires.
These wildfires have a significant impact on local wildlife.
“The scale (of fires) has increased.” Zagelbaum says. “There is an onslaught in terms of one fire after another.”
“We are working with BLM, the Bureau of Land Management. Their properties have burned as well, which are adjacent to ours.”
“We’re tag teaming on restoration tactics. We make a fire line so if this area burns, we’re going to save this (other) area.”
Many species try to escape from the fires to adjacent areas, but some like the Quino checkerspot butterfly, are unable to.
“It’s going to be the end of the species as we know it,” Zagelbaum said “We’ll see with early surveys next year. I’m working on the restoration action plan for that specific fire to try to rebuild some of that habitat.” She believes the species may produce hybrids that will be more resilient towards fires.
Working directly with plants and animals is a dream for many biology students, but it is not an easy profession to break into. Zagelbaum offers her experience in the biological field and advice for students who hope to one day conserve habitats for native wildlife.
When asked how biology students at RCC can best prepare themselves for a career, Zagelbaum said, “There’s no better experience than doing internships.I wish I did more internships earlier. I did restoration work with the Palos Verdes Peninsula, habitat restoration, invasive removal.”
“Volunteer early,” she said, suggesting that students might cold-
email for volunteer opportunities through groups like Audubon National Bird Society and California Bat Working Group.
Zagelbaum shed light on the realities of being a female ecologist in the scientific field. “It’s still a challenge. Sometimes you’re definitely undermined just being a female,” Zagelbaum said.
While getting her master’s degree, Zagelbaum experienced misogyny from one of her advisers. However, in recent times she has had a more positive outlook on the field. , “I think it’s getting better with more women in the field. My boss now, he’s amazing.”
When entering the biological field, Zagelbaum encourages
students to have realistic expectations. “Doing what you want is not always glamorous,” she said. “When I was consulting, I would go out to the freeway underpass to check for desert tortoises. It was not a great area, the 210 underpass. Bodies were found there. It’s not always working with the coolest species in the coolest areas.”
Even with her masters degree, breaking into her chosen field was not an easy task for Zagelbaum. She said, “I have been told not a lot. I have been rejected a lot. Eventually you are gonna have somebody say yes. Getting into the field was so hard. You have to give a lot of your time. You’re paid by your
experience. It’s also who you know. There’s a competitive dynamic.”
When biology transfer students are choosing their schools, Zagelbaum says research your professors. “If you’re interested in mammalogy, do they have a mammalogist? The professors get all the connections. That’s such a wonderful resource.”
When asked what advice she would give to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) about managing stress, Zagelbaum says, “There’s a light at the end of the tunnel. You will get through it. It’s so minor in the scheme of things. No one’s ever asked for my transcripts. They ask for a paper that said I graduated. You got this.”
School offers support as mental health concerns arise
Amidst mental health concerns, Riverside City College is providing a community space and offering resources to address student needs.
Located in the Ralph H. Bradshaw Student Center Heritage Room, RCC students gather every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to discuss mental health with their peers and professionals.
Wellness Wednesday is a workshop that aims to help students express themselves in creative ways. One of these ways is creative writing. The workshop held on Oct. 16 involved students creating a story about their life in 10 chapters and then explaining what those chapters meant to them.
“I feel we live in a moment where everyone is against each other,” said Jorge DelReal, a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee working for the program. “I think we need to help each other out.”
Wellness Wednesday is just one of many different mental health workshops available for
students at RCC. Let’s Talk is available in front of the Bradshaw Cafeteria on Mondays and next to the auditorium Thursday’s. Let’s Talk allows for students to connect with crisis counselors and engage in informal discussions where no topic is off limits.
Tranquility Tuesday’s can be accessed by students via zoom.
Students can participate in different wellness activities that help deal with stress, anxiety and anger.
RCC’s mental health workshops are in partnership with Mighty Oak, a christian-based counseling center. Mighty Oak is run by Dr. Bergin, a marriage and family therapist who also works with preschool services in San
Bernardino and Easter Seals Child Development Centers.
Kayla Hudson, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist working in Wellness Wednesdays, said,” I’ve just been a part of the community for so long. I got to see these peoples’ lives change for the better.”
RCC has a wide range of
services that can support students’ mental health needs, free of charge. In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health in America has taken a turn for the worse. A report from Mental Health America found that a quarter of adults suffering from frequent mental anguish were not able to see a doctor due to cost, an increase from the previous year. RCC’s on-campus support is meant to tackle these numbers and improve mental health within the community.
“I think if we’re able to understand each other and help each other out it will go a long way. It could be mental health. It could be anything,” DelReal said.
The mental health workshops and services were announced in February earlier this year. It involved collaborating with 17 different community organizations. Student mental health is an issue that is not unique to RCC, but it is an issue that is trying to be dealt with. In a world that seems increasingly less optimistic, students can look to RCC for their variety of available resources.
Hidden Valley Wildlife Area Nature Center and Santa Ana River Trail loaced in Riverside County, California
ANNA SCHWABE | VIEWPOINTS
LENNON RUEHLE NEWS REPORTER
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH Signs of encouragement stand as a reminder that mental health is important.
Tigers dance into
Riverside City College celebrates homecoming week with many festivities,
MARISSA PEREZ LIFE REPORTER
Right in the Quad Art Gallery visitors are greeted with bright white walls adorned with ceramics when they walk into the room, while pillars display more artwork.
Art professors Brian Kohl and Humberto Reynoso welcomed ceramic artists onto Riverside City College grounds. However, the gallery’s coordinator, Matthew Luther, organized the event, which showcased on Oct. 3, 2024.
“Beautiful and thoughtful,” Luther said when asked to describe the event. As visitors viewed the art, they focused on the details, colors and shapes of the ceramics.
One of the invited artists, Patsy Cox displayed her sculpture including three different pieces, all labeled “Sensory: Ears, Mouths, and Nose.” While viewers could interpret the meaning themselves, it’s unclear what Cox intended with her work.
Unlike Cox, other artists were able to share insights into the meanings of their work. Kohl explained that each artist had their own vision when creating sculptures. His goal was to bring these artists together to share their creative ideas.
“Mostly, water issues are where my interest lies, in being able to educate others about environmental issues,” Kohl said.
Three of the five artists shared the meaning behind their work. Jose M. Flores Nava, an artist based in Orange County, said his purpose of his work is to show a vessel.
“The way I see my work is more figurative in a nonfigurative way,” he said. “The vessel, in art terms or religious terms, is the body. I use the
vessel to showcase humanity.”
Nava’s five showcased pieces demonstrate differences in the human form. He highlighted how immigrants served as vessels during the COVID-19 pandemic. While essential workers, including farmers, were required to continue working, Nava noted how much recognition farmers received during the pandemic.
His sculpture “Burning Sunset Bucket” tells the story of how farmers were treated. The large bucket stands upright, filled with different fruits and vegetables.
“They’re essential workers. They’re holding up the economy,” Nava said. He explained that immigrants are represented by the bucket, and the word “burning” reflects the sacrifice farmers made working in the hot California weather.
Next, Kohl welcomed Russell Wrankle, a professor at Southern Utah University. At first glance, Wrankle’s sculptures resemble realistic animals. He explained that his work is about storytelling.
“Animals are a stand-in for the human condition, like in Aesop’s Fables,” he said. Wrankle adds his personal storytelling element to the sculptures.
“A lot of them do,” Wrankle said, noting that many of his sculptures reflect stories from his childhood. “My dad was a gardener. His idea of masculinity was manual labor,” he said. His sculpture “Conjoined Vulture with a Work Glove” reflects that story.
Wrankle teaches 3D design at Southern Utah University and emphasized the importance of problem-solving in art.
“Art making is a way to
build resilience because if the material doesn’t work with you, you have to adapt rather than impose your will,” he said.
Wrankle himself demonstrates resilience, spending hours working on his sculptures.
Allison Ragguette, another artist invited to the exhibit, described her work as “reactive and repulsive.” She created her pieces while balancing
motherhood. Viewers can see plain white objects with colorful spills as they inspect her work.
“It’s a metaphor for finding patience on a daily basis,” she said. “It’s all about surrender and control during motherhood.”
Ragguette explained that the “spill” represents the beauty of chaos in motherhood, particularly in her sculpture “Baby Poop.”
“Finding the beauty in things
that are spilling everywhere,” she said. She uses materials like porcelain, glaze, silicon, rubber and glass to represent the “joyous chaos” of motherhood. To view the ceramics, visit the Quad Art Gallery in Room 140. Their hours are from Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m and Friday from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. The exhibition runs from Sept. 23 to Nov. 22.
Art spectators appreciating Alison Ragguette’s piece at RCC’s 2024 Ceramics Invitational in Quad Art Room 140.
ANNA SCHWABE|VIEWPOINTS Artwork by Russell Wrankle displayed at RCC’s 2024 Ceramics Invitational in Quad Art Room 140.
homecoming week
festivities, expressing school spirit through performing and creative arts.
Riverside City College holds their homecoming pep rally rodeo where the stunt team gives a performance at Wheelock Stadium on Oct. 3
Riverside City College cheer team gives a performance at their rowdy homecoming pep rally on Oct. 3.
Riverside City College dance team finishes their performance at their homecoming pep rally rodeo on Oct. 3.
JENNIFER CARDONA | VIEWPOINTS
October 24, 2024
Editor: Caitlyn Nelson Viewpoints@rcc.edu
Did he do it? Yes, he diddy. We won’t ‘miss him’
IZABELLA DE LA ROSA ASSISTANT MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
Entertainer Sean Combs, also known as Diddy, has led a secret criminal enterprise for over two decades.
I believe that Hollywood has deliberately particapated and concealed his scandalous crimes.
According to the Department of Justice Combs participated in possession and distribution of narcotics, various forms of abuse, bribery, kidnapping, obstruction of justice and more.
As of 2024, Combs was charged with sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution. He currently resides in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, and thankfully has been denied bail.
Diddy has been a prominent figure for years, in 1993 he founded Bad Boy Records. The record label held household names like The Notorious B.I.G., Foxy Brown, French Montana along with Cassandra Ventura.
Throughout the years there has been speculation and jokes made about Diddy that portray him as a sex crazed party animal who deserves to be on a sex offender list. This narrative is being brought to light by over a 100 people, ranging from ages nine to 38. These victims have come forward with sickening verbal, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse allegations at the
hands of Combs and it all started with one woman.
In November 2023, Cassandra Ventura filed a lawsuit against Combs claiming she was raped, trafficked and experienced physical abuse over the span of ten years. A horrifying surveillance video discovered by CNN displays Combs punching, kicking and dragging Ventura by her hair in the hall of a Los Angeles Hotel in 2016.
After years of staying silent, multiple people are taking this opportunity to share their unfortunate encounters with Combs.
April Lampros who was an intern at Arista, which was a parent company to Bad Boy Entertainment in 1994, was involved in a two year abusive relationship with Combs.
According to The Independent in one instance, Lampros had gone out for drinks with Diddy, soon after drinking her drink she began to feel the effects of narcotics. Combs then directed her to a hotel and despite her protests, she was raped by him.
Diddy obviously feels as though rules don’t apply to him. He uses his social status, money and even physical force against his victims demanding their silence.
In the early 2000s Diddy produced “Making the Band” a reality TV show. Diddy was conducting season three of the show when he recruited Dawn Richard. Richard reported the abuse she endured while working with Combs, accusing him of harassment and withholding payment from albums he produced. Richard reports a specific incident
in which she attempted to stop Combs from abusing Ventura but received a death threat from Combs. In Richard’s confession she reveals deviant acts from Diddy committed at parties he was hosting.
Diddy refuses to take accountability and denies all claims against him.
The Independent quoted Combs’s response to these allegations saying, “Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged. I will fight for my name, my family and for the truth.” This statement is coming from the man who throws “Freak Off” events in his backyard.
The infamous “Freak Offs” lasted days at a time.
Diddy was known for his parties, there was a saying “there ain’t no party like a Diddy party.”
Most assumed this statement referred to Puff Daddy’s annual white parties. The attendees included notable names such as Kim Kardashian, Paris Hilton, Aston Kutcher, Jay-Z, Aretha Franklin, Leonardo DiCaprio and countless more.
Now I want to make it clear that the white parties and “Freak Offs” are two separate things, but comments made by Diddy suggest otherwise.
The Daily Mail resurfaced
a video of Diddy making an announcement at one of his white parties,“Kids have an hour left [then] this thing turns into something that when you get older, this is something y’all are gonna want to come to,” Diddy says to the crowd, “Put the kids away. It’s all good.”
Hollywood’s inner circle has been hiding Combs’s heinous crimes and now that it is public knowledge of what occurred at these parties, celebrities are frightened to be exposed.
In a 2004 interview with Rolling Stone Usher shared his experience with Combs saying, “Puff introduced me to a totally different set of sh**— sex, specifically…” A young Usher says, “You’d open a door and see somebody doing it, or several people.” Unfortunately, in a 2016 interview with Howard Stern, Usher retracted his prior quote. Usher met Diddy when he was 13 and Diddy was 24. A grown man hanging out with a child not related to him in any way is extremely alarming. The people surrounding Puffy are either victims or participants of his shenanigans. Society’s socialites have been harboring a pedophile who takes advantage of people for his own amusement.
Tony Buzbee the representative for Combs’s victims is determined to go after the A-listers involved that kept quiet. As this case goes on, more well-beloved celebrities will be scrutinized and penalized for their participation. Diddy is going down and taking everyone along with him.
End cannabis injustice, release nonviolent offenders now
AKIRA
MORRIS OPINIONS EDITOR
California legalized marijuana for recreational use in 2016, yet thousands of nonviolent offenders remain imprisoned on outdated cannabisrelated charges.
As of this year, nearly 2,000 individuals in the state are still incarcerated for marijuana-related crimes, despite it now being legally sold and taxed.
According to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, nearly 90% of those convicted were charged with possession of marajuana, while the remaining 10% were charged for sales or distribution. It is only fair to release these individuals since it goes against the rules of justice to keep punishing them for crimes no longer considered illegal.
Retroactive justice ensures that laws change to reflect society’s ideals and that people do not have to suffer because of old or unfair rules that are in place. Additionally, retroactive justice highlights the harm that mass incarceration causes to society,
especially in the communities that suffer the most from these outdated laws.
This mainly occurs in Black and Latino communities, where the stigma associated with having a criminal record contributes to institutional discrimination.
For instance, according to the American Civil Liberties Union, Black Americans are four times more likely to be apprehended for marijuana possession rather than White Americans despite both groups having similar usage rates.
Furthermore, a Marijuana Policy Project report claims that this institutionalized injustice leads to cycles of marginalization and poverty.
It is crucial to recognize that many of the nonviolent marijuana offenders are serving sentences that no longer accurately reflect the legal reality of the modern cannabis market. Within this market, marijuana is not only lawfully used but also taxed and controlled like any other commodity.
One specific individual that shows how severe this problem can become is Parker Coleman. Coleman is serving 60 years for marijuana distribution, however, in the witness evidence, no one was seen purchasing marijuana
from him.
Given that marijuana is currently legal in California for both recreational and medicinal use, Coleman’s 60-year sentence for marijuana distribution is extremely harsh.
Kyle Kazan, former law enforcement official, and Coleman’s advocate, said, “Having already served 10 years of hard time with another five decades to go... demonstrates the massive inequity Parker is living.”
This case shows the reality of the unfairness that persists when nonviolent marijuana offenders are still imprisoned even after the drug is legalized.
Coleman’s harsh sentence emphasizes the need for reforms that connect current legal frameworks with past convictions, ensuring that no one suffers from outdated marijuana laws.
Moreover, the increased public support for marijuana liberalization and the release of nonviolent offenders have significant economic benefits.
In addition to saving money by redirecting the funds saved from lower incarceration rates into community services, California may invest in the futures of individuals most impacted by
past injustices.
According to a NORML report, nearly 200,000 offenders’ records have already been erased in California, saving money on court processes and prison upkeep.
As a result, California has the opportunity to both lessen the financial burden of mass incarceration and reinvest the savings into vital community services by accepting marijuana liberalization and releasing nonviolent offenders.
Beyond the economic benefits, the moral aspect of reform must be considered.
Public opinion agrees that releasing nonviolent marijuana offenders is right as many Americans now perceive marijuana use as a matter of personal choice rather than a criminal act.
A recent Pew Research Center survey shows 88% of Americans think marijuana should be allowed for either recreational or medical usage.
This overwhelming support is a reflection of the rising realization that criminalizing marijuana has a detrimental impact on individuals and communities. It has especially impacted those who have been wrongfully imprisoned for
nonviolent crimes.
Coleman and other nonviolent offenders have suffered injustices, and California needs to reevaluate and correct these wrongs in light of the evidence and public support for legalizing marijuana.
By freeing those incarcerated for past cannabis-related offenses, I support the ideals of retroactive justice while simultaneously attempting to fix the harm done to marginalized populations.
Let’s try to create a society where using marijuana is a matter of personal preference and no one is penalized for outdated laws. Marijuana has become something that humans will seek as another medicinal outlet to aid there daily stress
Join the fight to release those who are unlawfully imprisoned and construct a just future for all. People could become a member of advocacy organizations such as the Drug Policy Alliance or take part in local campaigns to change marijuana regulations.
To learn more about how you can help free nonviolent marijuana offenders, visit the ReLeaf Foundation website as the organization focuses on raising money and spreading awareness for nonviolent marijuana convicts to stop this injustice.
PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB.COM
Criminals released from their prison sentences are being shed in a new light.
Criminals are the new “it” celebs
CAITLYN NELSON OPINIONS EDITOR
Today’s multimedia driven world is blurring the line between infamy and fame at a drastic rate.
Criminals known for their monstrous acts and cunning behavior are now being glorified within pop culture, creating a form of celebrity status.
The cases of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, the Menendez brothers and Anna Delvey demonstrate how society is being captivated by these stories for entertainment rather than for insight or justice.
Blanchard’s case is quite controversial. Dee Dee Blanchard, mother of Gypsy Rose, medically abused and manipulated her daughter due to Munchausen syndrome by proxy. Years of torment led Blanchard to conspire in the murder of her mother, which landed her in front of the world’s eyes due to headlines and her subsequent trial.
Although Blanchard’s case undoubtedly involves instances of abuse and desperation, does this truly mean that she should be seen as one of the world’s next big influencers?
The glorification of Blanchard can be linked to her documentaries, TV shows and social media.
Her documentaries, “The Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard” and “Gypsy Rose: Life After Prison,” can be viewed on Lifetime. These
documentaries take an inside look at the life of Blanchard as well as allow her to tell her version of the story. Along with her documentaries, a show came out in 2019. “The Act” on Hulu and Prime Video takes a Hollywood approach to telling the story of Blanchard’s case.
Furthermore, after Blanchard’s release her social media skyrocketed overnight.
Today Blanchard’s social media status stands at over 710,000 followers on Instagram and 10 million followers via TikTok.
One of the reasons Blanchard’s social media numbers increased is due to the insane comments provided in her ex-husband’s posts, which turned into a social media craze.
According to Business Insider, in her ex-husband’s post, Blanchard commented, “... besides they jealous because you are rocking my world every night… yeah I said it, the D is fire. Happy wife happy life.”
These comments have thus been taken down but remain one of the reasons why Blanchard got famous.
Not only did Blanchard help murder her mother, but now it seems as though her quick fame is romanticizing her criminal acts. Rather than going back to a simple life, the second she was released from prison she was given a lavish lifestyle.
I cannot see how glorifying a criminal who planned a murder can be a positive influence on the younger generations. Although Blanchard’s life has been difficult, we must ask: is her infamy warranted or has she been unjustly glorified?
Moreover, Erik and Lyle
Menendez may have found themselves in the same situation as Blanchard.
The Menendez brothers murdered their wealthy parents back in 1989 and have been fighting for their prison release ever since. As of 2024, the public percieves the brothers as victims of abuse who acted out of desperation. However, during the time of their trials they were seen as cold-blooded killers.
Although there is evidence being brought forth that may bring abuse into consideration, it is quite perplexing how easily the narrative shifted from criticism to sympathy. I believe that the brothers are telling the truth about the abuse they encountered but I also believe that the brutality of their crime should not be forgotten.
The Menendez brothers shot both of their parents several times with shotguns until they were unrecognizable. Now, they are given several shows and documentaries which further developed their stardom.
The newest show released via Netflix, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story,” by Ryan Murphy has caused the new uproar in the brothers’ infamy. Due to the show, social media has now taken the brothers’ story into its own hands. This has helped the public see new found evidence, learn about their story, and fans of the brothers have even made edits depicting how attractive they are.
I believe that the Menendez brothers do in fact have a lot of evidence that demonstrates that they are eligible to finally live a free life. However, I
fear that the brothers have found themselves in a celebrity spotlight that has caused their criminal actions to be outshined by their popularity. I do not see these brothers as a threat, nor do I believe they should be in jail, but I most definitely believe that they should not be considered celebrities.
Lastly, Anna Delvey took social media by storm when she was seen as a celebrity on “Dancing with the Stars.”
Delvey was imprisoned for four years after she was found guilty of three grand larceny counts, four misdemeanor charges of theft of service as well as stealing over $200,000. After Delvey was released in 2021, she was taken back into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement for overstaying her visa.
Since then, Delvey has made it her purpose to reinstate her image. She no longer wants to be known as a criminal but as a well rounded citizen. According to the Independent, Delvey’s judge ruled to allow her return to social media on Aug. 16.
Since her return to social media platforms, Delvey has now gained about one million followers on Instagram and 194,000 followers on TikTok.
Delvey’s social media numbers have grown immensely after her appearance on “Dancing with the Stars” season 33. Her appearance on this TV show has spiked controversy over whether or not criminals should be seen as celebrities.
Other contestants featured on season 33 of “Dancing With the Stars” are NBA and NFL players, Bachelor and
Bachelorette contestants, actors, supermodels and Olympic champions.
When introduced on the show, the hosts called Delvey a fashionista and entrepreneur, completely ignoring the truth of where she first gained her fame. When in comparison to the other contestants Delvey looks out of place because she is not necessarily the best role model for this family friendly show.
Delvey surprised viewers with her bedazzled ankle monitor. This act of trying to make her ankle monitor a fashion statement further implements the idea that felons are the new “it” celebrities.
This beloved show has caused conflict by putting a criminal into the mix of contestants. This has further confused the viewers about what the show’s meaning is now. How could an ex con artist possibly gain the same recognition as an olympic champion?
How can bedazzling an ankle monitor be a great example for the younger viewers of this show? Criminals are setting a negative example when it comes to gaining success in a righteous way. Having criminals as celebrities can cause individuals to believe that breaking the law is the best way to gain wealth. Why should we celebrate these individuals that have done some of the worst crimes known to man?
We should not. That does not mean we should discriminate against these individuals based on their pasts. However, we should not celebrate their transgressions.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH
E ditorial
Students have trouble meeting with counselors
The registration dates for the 2025 Winter and spring semester are soon approaching here at Riverside City College, and students are struggling to make appointments with their counselors.
There are roughly 30,000 students attending RCC, and only 26 counselors are available. This can cause counselor appointments to quickly be filled in under 10 minutes.
Students can schedule their appointments online. However, the spots fill quicker than expected. New appointments are available at midnight, forcing students to lose sleep in order to meet with their counselor, but it is never guaranteed. Many students work night shifts or have early classes they must attend. They must now decide if they losing sleep is worth risking the chance to schedule one of these appointments.
Even when students can stay up past midnight to make their appointments, the website sometimes lags and takes longer to load than it is to meet with their counselor. Your internet may be working fine, but the moment it loads up your request, there are no available appointments, and you have to wait again until the next night.
Students can go to the student services and administration building to make an appointment instead of staying past midnight, but more often than not there are no more appointments available.
Additionally, appointments are usually booked a week in advance, though many students claim that they wait weeks or months for their scheduled meetings.
The chance that you do get an
appointment with a counselor, you are only given around 15 minutes with them since they are limited on time. This is not enough time to address all the questions students have. There is a possibility that a counselor that you like will probably not be listed the next time you’re making an appointment.
With the lack of accessibility to a counselor, students themselves will go out and investigate to see how many credits they have left and look into the requirements for their major instead of being guided by an official. To them, it is not worth the stress of trying to book an appointment.
The whole point of having counselors on campus is to help and guide students to achieve their academic goals, not give them any more additional stress on top of their course load and personal lives.
TO THE EDITOR
Letters to the editor should be kept to 250 words or less and include contact information. Email letters to viewpointseic@ gmail.com. Viewpoints reserves the right to edit letters for space and to reject libelous or obscene letters. Letters to the editor and columns represent the opinions of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect those of the entire Viewpoints staff, Viewpoints faculty advisers, student faculty, administration or the Board of Trustees. Dates below are subject to change.
Students at Riverside City College are able to access their counselors in the Counseling and Advising center is located on the second floor of the Dr. Charles A. Kane Student Services and Administration building.
ERIC PACHECO | VIEWPOINTS
Tigers clash in top ranked matchup
SERGIO CONTRERAS
SPORTS REPORTER
The Tigers women’s water polo team hosted a mini tournament, squaring off against #1 Long Beach City College Vikings to start the day.
The match was marked by strong defensive play, quick transitions, and standout individual efforts from both sides at the Riverside City College Aquatics Center on Oct. 18.
The Vikings were able to open the score early in the first quarter and got a second one shortly after however the Tigers continued to press.
The opposition goalkeeper made great saves in the first quarter to keep the Tigers out and keep them ahead by two. Both teams pressed aggressively in the second quarter, and both teams also had strong defensive performances.
However, late in the second quarter, the Tigers finally got on the board after Chandler Burell found the back of the net. The Tigers used this goal as momentum and motivation to tie the game with 2:09 left on the clock.
The Vikings were able to take the lead again just before halftime making the score 3-2 at the break.
The break proved effective as early in the third quarter the Tigers were able to tie the game. This was short-lived as the Vikings were awarded a penalty that they were able to convert.
“This was one of our best games all season,” Tigers assistant coach Sarah Grennawalt said.
The third quarter saw a lot more back and forth from both teams both offensively and defensively with both teams scoring to tie the game at 4-4.
With seven seconds left in the quarter, the Vikings were able to take the lead, pushing the Tigers until the very end.
The fourth quarter saw the
Tigers trail by two early on, however, they were able to pull one back early on as well.
This game showed the Tigers’ resilience, going toeto-toe with Long Beach and holding them to a tight score.
Ultimately it was not enough. Although the Tigers played great defense throughout the fourth quarter the Vikings were able to take the game with two late goals to pull away and take the victory with a final score of 8-5.
The loss was only the Tiger’s second of the season. “This loss does not determine our season; we will use this as motivation to get better,” head coach Doug Finfrock said.
“We’re going to make a lot of adjustments, we missed a lot of shots but I know as a team we’re going to come prepared next time we play. All that matters now is how we prepare for the rest of the season,” attacker Yosra Elseifi said.
The Tigers would rebound in the second game in another top-10 contest against San Diego Miramar College picking up a 13-6 victory.
The womens water polo team will head to the Long Beach Tournament on Oct. 25 next hoping to continue their strong season and perhaps get another shot at the Vikings looking to avenge their loss.
Men’s water polo blown out at home in tournament
SERGIO CONTRERAS| VIEWPOINTS
Tiger’s are able to find the back of the net getting past three Viking’s defenders on Oct. 18.
SERGIO CONTRERAS SPORTS REPORTER
In a tough clash during the Riverside City College mini water polo tournament, the men’s team struggled to keep pace, falling 13-5 against #3 Long Beach.
Despite flashes of
brilliance, the loss highlighted the challenges of maintaining consistency against high-level competition.
The Tigers employed a spirited effort, in the face of missed opportunities on offense the Tigers never gave up and fought until the end.
The loss highlighted areas for improvement but also gave the Tigers motivation and momentum to finish the season strong.
“I’m proud of the guy’s effort. We were humbled that it’s one of the top three teams in the state,” said Head Coach
Jason Northcott “We brought more intensity and made sacrifices for each other.”
The first quarter saw the Tigers trail by 4 without a response however late in the first quarter the Tigers answered.
The second quarter saw the Tigers play more defensively forcing turnovers and creating opportunities on the counterattack.
However, missed chances and great goalkeeping from the opposition kept the game one-sided. The Vikings using their momentum from the first quarter expanded their lead to 8-1 by halftime shutting out the Tigers.
The third quarter saw the Vikings continue their dominance scoring three more points early in the quarter expanding their lead to 11-. However, this invigorated
the Tigers to get on the scoreboard some more and they would go on to score four unanswered points against the Vikings.
The Tigers were able to capitalize on defensive gaps and maintained control throughout the third quarter while the Vikings struggled to convert late.
In the final quarter, the Vikings were able to seal their victory with two more goals and again did not allow the Tigers to score that quarter.
“For them being top three in the state I thought we played well obviously not the result we wanted but we can learn from this,” goalkeeper Leonardo Davis said.
The Tigers were able to get back on track in game two of the mini tournament against San Diego Miramar winning the match 21-7.
Editor: Eric Pacheco| Viewpoints@rcc.edu
Annabelle Storar,#12, from Riverside City College Woman’s Water Polo prepares to pass the ball against Long beach City College Woman’s Water Polo on Oct. 18.
MAC WILSON | VIEWPOINTS
Football scores 76 in Homecoming win
ERIC PACHECO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
A huge performance on offense and defense lead the Tigers to a lopsided homecoming victory over Mt. San Jacinto College Eagles on Oct. 5.
Redshirt sophomore quarterback Brady Jones picked apart MSJC man coverage defense as he led an aerial assault for the Riverside City College football team in a 76-16 victory. He threw for 433 yards and five touchdowns while the defense accounted for two touchdowns on the defensive side of the ball.
“He hit some good deep
balls consistently,” Tigers head coach Tom Craft said. “When they’re (MSJC) a man team they’re going to give up a lot.” Jones would also rush for 52 yards on four carries and tack on another touchdown. He would connect with four different receivers for touchdowns including freshman receiver Dominic Cox and sophomore receiver Jackson Owens who both had over 100 receiving yards on the day.
“It’s fun having those guys,” Jones grinned. “I just got to get them the ball and let them do the rest.”
“We’ve been working in practice with all the receivers trying to make our connection
strong,” Cox said.
Jones, who had six interceptions coming into the game stayed clean in the turnover department for the first time this season.
“I stayed more consistent and was able to stack plays and stack drives together,” Jones said. “Focusing in on practice and not forcing anything, taking what they give me,” Jones credited for the clean game.
The Tiger defense shined for a second straight week allowing 15 points per game in the past two contests. One of the top defensive linemen in the country sophomore Esaia Bogar led the charge keeping the MSJC quarterback on his
back foot all game long while also taking a strip sack fumble to the endzone for six.
“I was pretty surprised to even still be in the game at that point,” Bogar said. “Coach said to go out there and get a touchdown and that’s exactly what I did.”
Bogar had three tackles, one for a loss, and three quarterback hurries in the game but reaffirmed his willingness to do more and be better.
“I thought we did well, but we let the foot off the pedal and gave them two touchdowns when they should’ve had none,” Bogar said. “We got to work on finishing those games out.”
RCC identity is starting to
take form as the defending state champions hit the midway point of the season heading into their bye week.
“I think we’re more cohesive, guys are getting more opportunities that we haven’t really seen and that creates depth,” Craft said.
“We have to treat every game like a playoff game, you never know what can happen,” Bogar said.
The Tigers continued their dominance coming off the bye week as they picked up a 6210 vitory on the road versus Grossmont College on Oct. 19. Jones threw for six touchdowns and 307 yards on 33 attempts against the Griffins.
Volleyball swept in first conference loss
SERGIO CONTRERAS
SPORTS REPORTER
The Riverside City College women’s volleyball team suffered their first conference loss after being swept 3-0 at the hands of the Saddleback College Gauchos on Oct. 11.
Both teams entered the game undefeated in conference play, making this a highly anticipated matchup as to who would remain undefeated.
Despite the final result, the Tigers showed resilience throughout, primarily in their first two sets, with standout performances from Kilyn Hayes, who finished with nine kills and seven digs.
In the first set, the Tigers came out aggressively, matching the Gauchos point for point. After tying the game at 10-10 and again at 16-16.
The Tigers went toe to toe with the Gauchos, however, misplaced momentum allowed the Gauchos to take the first set, 25-22.
Hayes played a key role
during the first set.“My team depends on me a lot and it comes with a lot of pressure,”she said, “I can handle the pressure.”
The second set saw each team fight tooth and nail. Though the Tigers started shaky and trailed 9-4, they refused to backtrack.
They played aggressively and went on a five-zero run, pressuring the Gauchos and
reducing the deficit with the Gauchos.
The energy in the Wheelock Gymnasium was electric as the Tigers went on this five-point run.
“When we get a point lead we play as a team and everyone’s energy is there, it felt good to get those points,” Isabel Reyes said.
Hayes echoed the significance of retaining
momentum.
on Oct. 14.
“Having leads is amazing,” she said. “It’s something you want to keep and build off of during games like these.”
Despite their efforts, the Gauchos regrouped and won the set 25-17.
The Tigers’ flashes of brilliance weren’t enough to live longer than Saddleback’s consistency, but it shows their
resilience and their capacity to shut gaps.
In the third set, the Tigers came out swinging again and decided to alternate their approach. They held the Gauchos near early on, switching to a heavy offensive attack. But Saddleback, riding the momentum from the previous two sets, pulled away to take the final set 25-14.
“It was disappointing, it was not our best game,” said assistant coach Atsaros “We know we need to play a different game and play our best game.”
The loss ended the Tiger’s undefeated conference run but the team stayed hopeful.
“It was a tough loss. We wanted to go 8-0. It is a learning experience we can bounce back from,” Hayes said
“We gotta put the work in and get back into it” Tabitha Irish said.
The Tigers were able to regroup as they dominated in two road sweeps over Golden West and Santa Ana College to improve to 7-1 in OEC play.
MADDIE NELSON| VIEWPOINTS
The volleyball team watches on from the bench during a game at Wheelock Gymnasium
Riverside City College defensive back Yoshua Yhisreal celebrates with his teammates Timiko Jackson and Tayven Anderson after scoring a touchdown for the Tigers at the Oct. 5 homecoming game against Mt. San Jacinto College at Wheelock Stadium.
ERIC PACHECO | VIEWPOINTS