Viewpoints spring 2022 vol. 100 issue no. 14, June 2 by RCC Viewpoints

JUNE 2,

2022

VOL. 100, NO. 14

VIEWPOINTSONLINE.ORG

Union seeks to cancel President RCC leadership receives vote of no confidence DAESHA GEAR ASST. NEWS EDITOR LEO CABRAL | VIEWPOINTS

An alleged lack of leadership, action and responsibility led to the Riverside Community College District Faculty Association giving Riverside City College President Gregory Anderson a vote of no I supposed to think about it?” felt angry,” he said. “It made it clear confidence at the District’s Board According to Haines, the he was saying, ‘Stop asking about of Association meeting May 17. The Association’s budget cuts affect RCC dance this.’ (But) it’s just people trying more than other classes within the to figure out how we’re going to executive board’s vote against Anderson was unanimous. Visual, Performing and Creative go about our program.” Faculty Association President Arts Department because it is the The Honors program was also only program that does not receive affected by this decision, according Rhonda Taube and Vice President support from the district for its to Dan Hogan, English instructor Dariush Haghighat issued an open letter the following day concerts. and Honors program director. Haines explained that he went According to Hogan, the that expressed personal regret, to his dean John Adkins, who changes now allocate 100 hours professional responsibility and an obligation to the district. wanted to help, only to find that for a 300-hour job. H a g h i g h a t a n d Ta u b e Adkins’ hands were also tied. This gave Honors faculty, encouraged Chancellor Wolde-Ab “The email that Dan (Hogan) See HOURS on page 2 Isaac and other administrators, received from Dariush (Haghighat), who were concerned about Anderson’s short tenure at previous institutions, to hire Anderson. The Association president and vice president wanted to give him “the benefit of the doubt.” N o w, i t i s a d e c i s i o n they both say they regret. “ We w a n t e d t o p r o v i d e a rationale so that everybody understood this was a difficult decision for us,” Taube said. “We felt that we had no other option. We wanted everybody to know that we were doing this in good faith and best interest for the protection of our collective bargaining agreement.” According to Haghighat and Taube, the collective bargaining agreement between RCCD and its Faculty Association — or union AUSJA NOLAN | VIEWPOINTS — was breached and created Giancarlo Flores pitches against Saddleback College on March 8.

The dance program that practices in the Catharine Huntley Gymnasium is one of the programs affected by the latest budget cuts.

Faculty advisers lament cuts WILLIAM L.G. STEPHENS LIFE EDITOR

Programs at Riverside City College have experienced a drastic reduction of instruction hours, blindsiding several program heads. Faculty were notified just days before the spring 2022 term began. “Three days before the semester started, I had to call faculty to tell them, ‘I’m sorry you don’t have a class anymore,’” dance chair Mark Haines said. “That was hard to tell

someone, ‘I’m sorry you won’t be able to put food on your table or pay your car payment, because (of) this thing that came out of the blue.’” Haines has been an instructor for 21 years. He said the decision would ultimately delay dance students from receiving their associate degrees as quickly as they have in the past. “It makes me personally feel like the district, the administration, don’t really care about dance,” Haines said. “What other way am

RCC baseball team wins state title JAIR RAMIREZ ASST. SPORTS EDITOR

Down 0-3, a team built for this scored four runs in the bottom of the fourth inning. Down 7-5, a team built for this scored five runs in the bottom of the eighth inning to take a commanding lead and capture the California Community College Athletic Association State Championship. The Riverside City College Tigers — who defeated the Folsom Lake College Falcons 10-8 to claim their fifth CCCAA state championship, and their first since 2007 — were built for this.

“We were built for this” has been the team’s motto throughout the season and the team persevered once again, trailing through most of the game, only to come back. “We were built for this, it started from the very beginning,” head coach Rudy Arguelles said in a post game interview. “We did it because we’re going to be built, we’re going to be prepared.” RCC swept just two season series but only lost one in their up and down season. In the midst of ups and downs, and following a pandemic, there was also a level

See CCCAA on page 15

See RCC on page 4

FEATURES

EDITORIAL

Outgoing editor-

Journalism

in-chief says

programs

goodbye

deserve more

INDEX NEWS LIFE OPINIONS EDITORIAL SPORTS

2 6 10 12 14

June 2, 2022

News Briefs Spring finals Spring finals begin June 6. June 10 will be the final day of the spring 2022 semester. Commencement ceremony RCCD will host its first in-person commencement ceremony June 10. The event will host three academic classes (2020, 2021 and 2022) graduating from Riverside City College, Norco and Moreno Valley College. The Arthur N. Wheelock Stadium will host those graduating from RCC. Further clarity for those graduating from MVC or Noro can be found here: h t t p s : / / w w w. m v c . e d u / commencement/ https://www.norcocollege. edu/services/studentLife/ commencement/Pages/index.aspx RCC mask requirement Due to recent COVID-19 outbreaks at RCC, administration implemented a campus-wide mask mandate that will require staff, students and faculty members to wear masks indoors throughout the rest of the spring semester, ending June 10. Summer intersession The six-week RCCD summer intersession will begin June 20, and the term will end July 29. The deadline to register for classes is June 25. Lavender graduation LASSE will host its Lavender graduation, an event to acknowledge LGBTQIA2+ graduates and their achievements for the 2021-2022 academic year June 8 from 3 - 4 p.m. The event will be held in a hybrid format, and will be held at the A.G. Paul Quadrangle in Room 144 for those who wish to attend in-person. To participate virtually through Zoom, the link can be found here:

All of these dates are subjected to change due to possible regulations to come involving the containment of the coronavirus. 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.news@gmail.com

Editor: Jennipher Vasquez | viewpoints.news@gmail.com

RCC eulogizes beloved colleague Criminal justice instructor’s legacy endures LEO CABRAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

A silence befell the Riverside City College Quadrangle, something out of character for a usually-bustling college campus. A solemn crowd of over 60 faculty, staff and friends of Oliver Thompson, former criminal justice instructor, gathered in the Quad to collectively celebrate his life and legacy May 26. The intimate function was made possible by the Black Faculty and Staff Association. The celebration of life opened with Kristi Woods, dean of Instruction, Languages, Humanities and Social Sciences, following African tradition and asking the elders present for permission to speak. Woods and Miguel Reid, English instructor, commenced a libation ceremony with Riverside Community College District Chancellor Wolde-Ab Isaac’s permission. Pouring the libation is a ritual performed in remembrance of ancestors on special occasions. A brief memorial video brought some viewers to tears. The video was filled with several snapshots of Thompson’s life and testimonials of his influence on friends, colleagues and former students. Many at the service shared memories of Thompson and how he impacted their lives.

STEPHEN DAY | VIEWPOINTS Family, friends and colleagues memorialize criminal justice instructor Oliver Thompson at a celebration of life event in the Riverside City College Quadrangle on May 26. “He lived a life remarkably dedicated to education,” Isaac said. “During his career at Riverside Community College District, he became a beloved friend and mentor not only to students but also to faculty to staff and administrators alike.” Many alluded to his dedication to student equity and justice. Some remarked that Thompson was much like a father figure, and everyone said they would miss him dearly. “Oliver was my ride or die at RCC,” Woods said. “We tag teamed in meetings, on committees, discussions, programs, initiatives.

We worked together to consistently remind the college of the data … Oliver would say, ‘We’ve been looking at these data for 20 years. What are we going to do about it?’” The celebration of life’s climax was a eulogy delivered by Edward “Ed” Bush, president at Cosumnes River College and former RCC Student Services vice president. His eulogy evoked an array of emotions from attendees. “We might not have a physical structure to memorialize Dr. Thompson but I submit that your presence today represents something more powerful than

any structure could do,” Bush said. “In fact, you are the structures that memorialize Dr. Thompson’s legacy. It is through your work, your commitment, your spirit, your energy, your fight for justice that would keep him alive on this side of creation.” The celebration concluded with Thompson’s wife Christine offering thanks and closing remarks. “I want to thank you for just taking Oliver in,” she said. “You don’t know but you loved on him. You really loved on him. And everything that he did, he did wholeheartedly.”

Last minute cuts leave advisers scrambling HOURS from page 1 and other programs in the same predicament, two options: significantly reduce necessary services for students or work for free. Hogan had already completed 130 hours of work by the end of April. This concerned Hogan because May is one of the busiest months of the spring semester and he already surpassed the new allotted hours. “It’s hurting our Honors program,” Hogan said. “These are low-income, non-traditional and students of color. Honors is the vehicle by which they can access universities such as UCLA and (UC Irvine). This is a vehicle for equity and RCC is letting it die.” H o g a n s p o k e w i t h Ly n n Wright, vice president of Academic Affairs, and Kristi Woods, dean of Instruction, Languages, Humanities and Social Sciences, on Zoom in early February — Woods is responsible for overseeing the Honors program — and described how Wright asked him to explain to her what the Honors program was and what it does. “I appreciated the opportunity to meet with the Honors program faculty leadership to learn about this specific program,” Wright said. “The college is responsible to abide by the agreement between Riverside Community College District and the Faculty Association. Increases

in reassigned time for any program, including Honors, may be considered in the coming academic year. That consideration would be part of a broader discussion about costs, impacts and roles.” RCC President Gregory Anderson also said increases in reassigned time for any program, including Honors, may be considered in the coming academic year and would be part of a broader discussion, in accordance with Wright. “The administration is committed to sustaining a strong and successful Honors program,” Anderson said. “The college is responsible to abide by the agreement between RCCD and the Faculty Association.” Hogan then took the pressing concerns to the Faculty Association in mid-March. Faculty Association vice president Dariush Haghighat responded to Hogan via email, warning that opening up reassigned time contract negotiations for Honors would impel everyone to renegotiate their agreements. “I’m tired of explaining and reexplaining this issue,” Haghighat said. “Contract negotiation is a highly time-consuming process. I have a serious problem for people who are not familiar with contract negotiations and collective bargaining getting involved and making comments.” In previous years, reassigned

time was renegotiated through addendums or memorandums of understandings, where the president had the power to reassign, increase or reward more hours to faculty that went over what was negotiated in the contract. “Honors coordinators were getting reassigned time above what is negotiated in the contract, that is illegal, they are lucky they got that,” Haghighat said. “The district is the management that has the responsibility of reinforcing the contract and now has a new sheriff in town. And that new sheriff is our vice chancellor, and she’s going over the contract with fine-tune.” Hogan followed up by emailing Anderson for direction on where to submit a proposal. He said Anderson responded by acknowledging there should be a process but did not know what it was. “At the end of the day, it is not the job of the union to educate (faculty) about the contract. It is the job of the administration,” Haghighat said. “Why do you think the district has voted a ‘no confidence’ vote of President Anderson? He has repeatedly failed to live up to his responsibility.” The assurance that more hours were available if needed is what kept many of RCC’s programs afloat after being denied their request for an education adviser. A majority of those programs

are in the Visual, Performing and Creative Arts Department. A lack of tenure prevents other faculty members from coming forward, according to Haines. “The union is very powerful here,” Haines said. “I would like to think they are making decisions based on ethics and morals, recently I have questioned if that’s the truth. I think that sometimes they can target a person that they decide is ruffling too many feathers and asking too many questions, and so things can happen to those people.” Faculty members like Hogan and Haines are frustrated, not from the lack of funding, but from the lack of administrative response. “Our students don’t deserve to be caught in the crossfire because the adults in the room couldn’t figure it out,” Hogan said. “I’m not asking for a miracle, I’m asking for an answer, an explanation or, at least, a reply to my email.” Communication has increased recently between Hogan and Wright over the budget cuts. Although Hogan is appreciative of the increase, he feels he has wasted a semester. He also finds it highly unlikely that anything will change. Haines is currently working on the lighting design of his dance concerts for free. Hogan has informed the Honors program that fall 2022 will be his last semester in the program.

June 2, 2022

Editor: Jennipher Vasquez | viewpoints.news@gmail.com

DAESHA GEAR | VIEWPOINTS

Al Weyant-Forbes, Extended Opportunity Programs and Services specialist (EOPS), and Andrea Dillon, LGBTQ+ Association for Student Success and Equity (LASSE) and Ally program coordinator, embrace after years of requesting adminstration for student services for RCC’s underrepresented students.

College provides safe space Grand opening marks first step to permanent center ALEXANDRA UGALE FILARCA STAFF REPORTER

Riverside City College faculty members, Sexuality and Gender Acceptance club (SAGA) representatives and the LGBTQ+ Association for Student Success and Equity (LASSE) reached a milestone in visibility and representation on campus. RCC celebrated the grand opening of the LGBTQIA2+ student hours May 19. LASSE and SAGA faced many obstacles in recent years as faculty members and allies struggled to receive the services, student resource center and funding needed to support underrepresented students. “The overall challenge (was) trying to find a room that wasn’t already marked with something else on campus,” said Théa Marie Seals, an instructional support specialist of the Writing and Reading Center and volunteer for LASSE. They eventually acquired a space in the Martin Luther King Jr. Building. “We have been fighting for so many years,” said Okami Harveinheit-Lucrey, an Associated Students of Riverside City College (ASRCC) senator and former SAGA president. “As soon as faculty came in, and there were more LGBT+ faculty, they were working with us. Administration decided to finally listen and help us out.” Andrea Dillon, LASSE cochair, said MLK 304 is a temporary space. She and others are still advocating for a permanent one.

The establishment of a LGBTQIA2+ student center was lengthy, but it is only the first step of a long journey to get the appropriate resources and safe space for the community. LASSE and SAGA hope to accomplish more in order to accommodate students better as they continue to push for a permanent student resource center. Some things they would like to see are expansion, more student hours and more support and resources for students, according to Dillon. “This opening is so important for the students who have not yet come out or (do) not yet understand themselves because now they have got a place to do so,” HarveinheitLucrey said. “It’s gonna do a lot for their mental state, health, safety, as well as their education to be surrounded by others who are just the same as them.” Volunteers and students alike were pleased to have a communal space where they can nurture an environment that allows everyone to feel free to express themselves authentically. “If I had a space where I could come and be okay being me, that would’ve meant the world to me,” said Seals. “That impact is immeasurable. That feeling of inclusion, of being seen and valued, is what matters to me. That is the reason why any of us are volunteering all (of) the time. We’re not getting paid extra for this – this is all just an act of love.” Representatives from both clubs voiced other evolving issues affecting underserved students at RCC. “Policy changes are a big one,” Dillon said. “We talk about

DAESHA GEAR | VIEWPOINTS

LASSE, SAGA club members, faculty and representatives from various student services pose near the new LASSE flag placed in front of MLK Building on May 19. inclusive restrooms, but they’re not always open. They’re few and far between and that’s not okay. We’re (also) focused on how to get inclusivity in classrooms.” LGBTQIA2+ students echo this sentiment as these students are more likely to experience misgendering and dead-naming in a classroom setting. “When I changed my pronouns to they/them, that was something I struggled with during high school,” Lila Rodriguez, a first-year film major, said. “I think teachers should be able to learn how to properly address people with their pronouns.” Representatives said there are plenty of ways allies can support the LGBTQIA2+ community at RCC, including promoting visibility, creating safe spaces

and learning about the issues the community faces. “Advocating for our community and telling (people) that we are right here on campus (would help others) learn about us,” said Jennifer Shaw, vice president of SAGA. “Education is knowledge and power.” Toi Thibodeaux, assistant director of the LGBT Resource Center at the University of California, Riverside, was invited to speak at the opening of the student hours. Thibodeaux played an important role in establishing the BlaqOUT Conference in 2014 which provides a safe space for Black LGBTQIA2+ students. She gave insight on how the student hours could grow in the coming years, including creating a

“professionally-staffed center” to establish its legitimacy. Thibodeaux also recommended looking into creating policies that aid marginalized students. “Policies where students can have their lived name on documentations, or multi-stall gender-inclusive restrooms and the healthcare system (are some of them),” she said. “Really, it’s about putting in policies that can actually create change.” LASSE, SAGA, faculty members and allies continue to push for change and more support for underrepresented students at RCC. “ I t ’s r e a l l y a b o u t b e i n g here for the youth of today to make sure that they can be here tomorrow to help the next generation,” Thibodeaux said.

June 2, 2022

Editor: Jennipher Vasquez | viewpoints.news@gmail.com

STEPHEN DAY | VIEWPOINTS

RCC Math and Science majors Kasandra Caywood, left, and Sandi Bangphraxay select props before having their photo taken Grad Fest in the Quad on May 26.

Students finally ready to walk RCC to give ’20-’22 graduating classes in-person ceremony MYA CASTRO STAFF REPORTER

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic forced schools everywhere to transition to remote education, Riverside City College will be holding an inperson commencement ceremony celebrating graduates from 2020 through 2022. Students gathered in the Quadrangle on May 26 for Grad Fest, hosted by Associated Students of Riverside City College (ASRCC). Students were able to pick up their free cap and gowns, receive free food, take photos with RCC President Gregory Andseron and decorate their cap. The pandemic made many high

school graduates from 2020 miss out on graduation festivities. RCC student Sofia Morgan graduated from Grove High School in 2020 and will finally experience a real graduation this year. “My high school had a drivethrough ceremony,” Morgan said. “It’s a good feeling since this will feel like my first time graduating from a school.” Marina Morgan, a student in Architecture, Interior Design and Social Sciences will be graduating with the class of 2022 with three degrees. “My parents never attended my graduation in high school so they will be (attending) this year along with my sisters and boyfriend,” she said. Many students have various

services at RCC to thank for helping them through the pandemic to this in-person ceremony. Yisenia Sanchez, a Fine Arts student and mother, started at RCC in 2016. She received food from the RCC Food Pantry and was able to apply for CalFresh through the college. “I love RCC, there’s so many resources and a community I didn’t have in Los Angeles,” Sanchez said. “This is a place I don’t want to leave but I do need to move on.” Sanchez is thankful for the support that was given to her from not only her family and friends but the school as well. “(RCC) is where I became an adult, this is where I saw my STEPHEN DAY | VIEWPOINTS passions and changed my direction Josie Brooks from the Riverside City College Bookstore arranges of schooling.” graduation gifts in the Quad on May 26.

Faculty calls for RCC president’s resignation RCC from page 1 an adverse work environment. One instance surrounds a breach of confidentiality. The Improvement of Instruction (IOI) reviews on faculty members were disclosed publicly. The Faculty Association advised Anderson to take action on numerous occasions. “The IOI is incredibly important for faculty because it determines whether or not they will continue to work here,” said Mark Sellick, Academic Senate president. “It should never be the subject of an open college meeting.” The open letter stated Anderson addressed the conflict through law firms and human resources, claiming it was “freedom of expression.” “You can’t describe freedom

of speech to openly talk about somebody’s evaluation or a faculty investigation,” Taube said. “Those things are not allowed. That is not freedom of speech.” Haghighat and Taube also alleged Anderson is incapable of making decisions independently as he constantly seeks legal advice from third parties on RCC’s behalf. “We gave him a chance after several years of work,” Haghighat said. “We tried and tried and tried and tried, and this guy, he just doesn’t have it — leadership is not in his DNA.” Anderson’s lack of approach has left issues at RCC abandoned, according to Haghighat and Taube. One example involved resolving an issue for a faculty member surrounding Title IX. Anderson insisted he would take care of the issue.

However, according to Taube, the issue was never resolved and is currently ongoing. The letter also alleged that Anderson uses scapegoats. Raymond “Chip” West, RCC vice president of Business Services, was placed on administrative leave. The open letter claims Anderson said Human Resources and Employee Relations (HRER) instructed him to make the decision. West’s leave resulted in responsibilities under his duty being unattended or shifted to another administrator. This created more work for faculty members, according to Haghighat. Haghighat said Anderson has the right to place West on administrative leave, but also stated Anderson should have taken matters into his own hands. The open letter states that

other administrators are following Anderson’s footsteps by involving third parties to handle job duties. The Association claimed it is a waste of funds to pay attorneys and human resources to make decisions meant for the higher-ups. “The college is falling apart,” Haghighat said. “We have paid administrators who are not doing their job. If a president has to go to an attorney all the time to ask what to do, then why do we need a president? HR and attorneys run the college.” Haghighat and Taube’s end goal is Anderson’s resignation, otherwise they will ask the Board to dismiss him. The decision surprised Board of Trustees President Bill Hedrick, who was unaware the Faculty Association had undertaken a noconfidence vote against Anderson.

“I am always hopeful that issues can be resolved at the lowest level,” Hedrick said. “That certainly was not necessarily the case.” Hendrick said he could not comment further on the issue. However, he said that the appropriate course of action will be for human resources and Isaac to consider the complaints made, followed by making recommendations to the Board of Trustees. “(Anderson) is wasting everybody’s time,” Haghighat said. “He is creating more problems, and he is not addressing them. I believe RCC deserves better leadership than it is receiving now. We need a leader who will lead this great institution to higher and better places, and that leader is not Dr. Anderson.” Anderson has not responded to multiple requests for a comment.

June 2, 2022

LIFE

Editor: Will L.G Stephens viewpoints.artsandentertainment@gmail.com

JOHN MICHAEL GUERRERO | VIEWPOINTS

Editor-in-chief Leo Cabral holds up an Associated Collegiate Press Best of Show Award during the Journalism Association of Community Colleges conference March 5.

Viewpoints’ editor-in-chief bids paper farewell LEO CABRAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Becoming the editor-in-chief during a publication’s centennial has been a substantial opportunity. I have watched Viewpoints shift and evolve with each new editorin-chief since spring 2019 when I joined as a staff photographer. I hadn’t even thought about applying for the position until after I was promoted to managing editor the following semester. I was happy to help out in any way because I found a program with other people who shared my passion for journalism. The best thing about being on staff was all the reporters and editors that worked endlessly to ensure the paper ran as smoothly as possible despite many Adobe InDesign crashes and late night breaking news writing sessions. I was intimidated and excited when my time at the helm finally arrived. I had some returning staff from previous semesters and

plenty of newcomers discovering their own passion for journalism. Nothing I wasn’t used to since revolving staff is a common thing in a college newsroom. Things felt different holding the EIC title compared to the managing editor position I held through the last two editor-in-chiefs’ tenures, though. This was my staff and my paper and I was responsible for them. I am so grateful to have worked on these 14 issues with such an amazing team. It was difficult reacclimating to in-person education, dealing with a broken AC our first summer and juggling the demands of a newsroom along with the uncertainties a pandemic brings, but I wouldn’t have done it with any other crew. Thank you for your patience and hard work. I’ve learned a lot about my strengths, weaknesses and my limits for what I’m willing to tolerate in a workplace in my JOHN MICHAEL GUERRERO | VIEWPOINTS short time as editor-in-chief. I look Leo Cabral, Viewpoints editor-in-chief, looks over the news section of the paper. forward to where Viewpoints goes from here.

Viewpoints editor-in-chief Leo Cabral works on an on-thespot contest for the Journalism Association of Community Colleges conference March 3.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MATT SCHOENMANN JOHN MICHAEL GUERRERO | VIEWPOINTS

From left, Leo Cabral, Jennipher vasquez, John Michael Guerrero and Daniel Hernandez pose with Best of Show Awards that Viewpoints won at the JACC conference March 5.

June 2, 2022

Editor : William L.G. Stephens | viewpoints.artsandentertainment@gmail.com

AUSJA NOLAN | VIEWPOINTS

An upside down American flag claims Indigenous resistance since 1491, when Europeans made contact with what is now known as the United States, at the University of California, Riverside Native American Student Program’s Annual Pow Wow held May 27-29.

Annual powwow returns to UCR Native American communities regain crucial event DARLENE DUKELOWBURTON OPINIONS EDITOR

Two years without a powwow to a Native American means losing a great many things. Reducing it to simply having no social contact is a severe understatement. You might be closer if you describe their lives as dependent on a tribal structure and extended family-oriented groups. They rely on the tribal network to feed their existence and operate their personal lives. Joshua Gonzales is the Native American Student Programs (NASP) director at the University of California, Riverside. His group usually puts on the complicated three-day powwow each year at the university. The Gonzales family has spent

decades involved in UCR’s Native American activities, and they are of Xictlaka/Mexika Indian descent and have spent their lives in the United States. The COVID-19 pandemic shutdown interrupted Native Americans’ lives across the country. When the quarantine was put in place, the powwows stopped everywhere. The UCR powwow would have been 39 years old in 2020. Gonzales expressed frustration about the last two years but understands why it had to happen. He knew the dangers of such a highly communicable disease. Indian reservations suffered terribly from the contagion with a disproportionately higher number of deaths, as their people have shown to have far less medical infrastructure than others.

The significance of the powwows to the Native Americans is more than social. It is traditional. It is where they show their children how to learn the ways and rules of behavior. It is where they discover their parents’ traditions and introduce them to their communities when they are officially brought into the dance circle for the first time. It is where they wear the regalia that their family hand-made for them and can feel the greatest pride in their heritage, finally u n d e r s t a n d i n g what it means. Although the drums and dancers compete with one another in today’s powwows, it is done in good sport. All of them feel the immense positive energy produced by every competition. The powwows are a time when many prayers go up. Many of

the songs that the drums play are prayers in a Native language. The prayer songs are why photography of the drummers and dancers are not allowed at certain times. Many decades ago, a Lakota Sioux prayer surfaced at meetings, then it was said at some powwows. It took hold, and the English translation spread to all the Indian Nations. The traditional Mitakuye Oyasin life prayer means “All My Relations” or “We Are All Related.” Other Indian nations have their versions of the prayer, and they connected with it. The Native American communities that come together at the powwows feel that the staff, drums, dancers and vendors are the powwow family. They travel from area to area

attending their favorite powwows, and they are friends of longstanding fellow competitors that can sometimes be seen as extended family. Many different tribes from many other Nations attend these powwows. Although the people are from different tribes, they still feel interconnected despite all their differences. At the Powwows, they can come together at these great gatherings to be themselves and mend themselves. The powwow energy feeds the soul and spirit. The drum groups that sing and play the songs lead the way for the community to dance in the dance circle. Many outsiders don’t know that much of this is religious and is done in a ceremonious way. It must be performed precisely right to have the correct meaning.

Trendy fashion essentials for summer fun ALYSSA CADENA STAFF REPORTER

As summer approaches and everyone prepares to go out more with friends and family, you must know which fashion and beauty products will keep you feeling protected, fresh and free during hot days. These fashion and beauty products are key for summer ’22 fun. Midi dresses have become a classic summer closet staple. Their loose fit and unique designs are best when walking to the beach or going to the farmers market on a warm day. Floral midi skirts paired with any type of camisole are the ultimate cheat code to staying fashionable at any event. The midi

skirt gives off a clean and effortless look that feels comfortable through long walks. Liquid blush is a game-changer. It gives a natural tint to the cheeks for more natural looks. The most popular liquid blush right now is the Benefit Cosmetics Lip & Cheek Stain and Tint. This product brightens the cheeks for a healthy glam looking. Hair clips are the perfect accessory to pair with an up-do hairstyle. Hair clips can go with you everywhere and are convenient to clip onto the hair whenever.

Denim shorts are an automatic essential for the summer. They pair easily with any top of your choice. Denim shorts are easy to plan outfits around and don’t cause much stress when going out with friends. Body lotion is necessary for days after returning from the beach and pool where your skin tends to be dry and you need to repair your skin. The CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Body and Face Lotion is perfect to keep in your bag. With warm days coming, the skin will dry, and this moisturizer

provides the proper hydration needed to combat that dryness. Sunscreen is essential for any day outside to prevent any sun damage or sunburn. Sunscreens can range from high to low prices, including a higher option from Supergoop’s Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40 which is $36, and a cheaper option from the Pacifica’s Vegan Collagen SPF 30 leading to $19. Sunglasses are like a “duh” summer essential to carry with you at all times. The summer sun can be powerful but a pair of sunglasses

Denim shorts are an automatic essential for the summer. - AlyssA CAdenA

can tone down the magnitude. A classic pair of glasses can match any outfit, but colorful sunglasses can add a pop of color to elevate an outfit as well. Try experimenting with complementing and contrasting colors for the perfect vibe. Tote bags are great for traveling and carrying all the products that are important to you. They can also store swimsuits and towels on pool days. It’s the perfect summer bag. Wedge sandals have become popular this summer for their strappy and platform look. These sandals can be paired with any dress or skirt for any occasion. It’s good to have staple shoes in the summer that can go with any outfit. The Madden Girl Women’s Vault Wedge Sandals are the perfect summer shoe must have.

June 2, 2022

Editor: William L.G. Stephens | viewpoints.artsentertainment@gmail.com

‘Sour’ tour leaves unsavory aftertaste Olivia Rodrigo’s show lacks stage presence, crowd connection HAYDEN KULICK SPORTS EDITOR

Olivia Rodrigo stated that she “didn’t want to skip any steps” when choosing venues to perform in, but took a huge leap when she decided to do an international tour. Rodrigo started the night off with what ended up being the best part of the performance. She teased the song “Brutal” a few times before the curtains dropped and walked out. Since “Brutal” is one of her more up beat songs, she created a vibe that failed to be maintained throughout the rest of her performance. However, Rodrigo attempted to keep the crowd hyped as she transitioned into “Jealousy, Jealousy,” which was another great fit, as both songs relate to similar subjects and was a song the crowd could dance to. Sadly after that, Rodrigo proceeded to slow the tempo down which once again stopped the crowd’s high energy. She gave a small speech to the crowd saying all the generic things that performers say like “thank you for coming” and “you guys are awesome.” After her speech she performed a cover of Avril L a v i g n e ’s “ C o m p l i c a t e d , ” which was expected because she performed it at every other stop on her tour. She also decided to pay homage to one of her inspirations as an artist, Gwen Stefani, when she performed a cover of “Just A Girl.” Rodrigo then started to cut off

PHOTO COURTESY OF JASON MARTIN | FLICKR

her next few songs before she had finished them. She would perform the first two-thirds of a song then would transition to the next song without warning. It was a big mistake especially because the crowd was fully embracing the song “1 Step Forward, 3 Steps Back” before she decided to change what she was performing. However, Rodrigo made a great decision performing “Good 4 U” last. It was the most anticipated song from the entire crowd. She also used the song “deja vu” to transition into it which was another plus due to the fact that the crowd

seemed to enjoy those two songs the most. She then possibly did the worst thing a performer could do in her situation. She finished “good 4 u,” which was the final song of the day, and had confetti drop from the sky, blew a kiss to the crowd and said goodbye. No theatrics, no final speech. One would think that she would have done something special since this was her home performance but all she did was repeat what she had done on her previous stops. Throughout the entire performance, one could tell that she lacked emotion and was tired

from her previous stops. From the moment she said her first word on the stage, it was obvious she didn’t have all of her energy. Her voice was beat. Alongside Olivia Rodrigo lacking energy, the crowd was the same way too. I was in the front quarter of the crowd and nobody was moving. People were simply just singing along and recording her on their phones. She didn’t look at the crowd much nor did she interact with any of the front row fans that waited overnight to see her. The person who opened for her,

Holly Humberstone, also did not help the lack of energy. Humberstone just sang, didn’t move around, did not engage with the crowd and just introduced herself. She would explain what her songs were about but did nothing else. As Rodrigo is only 19 years old and very early into her career, I did not go into the performance with the highest of expectations. Overall, she did not put on the best performance, but one can hope that she is able to build off of this performance and use it as a learning experience for the rest of her tour.

Album review: ‘Harry’s House’ shows artistic growth Former One Direction star evokes emotion through nostalgia VIANNEY MORALES STAFF REPORTER

Currently number one on the Billboard 200 album charts, former One Direction member Harry Styles released his third solo album May 20. Prior to its release, Styles teased the title and the album cover theme. I enjoyed the album’s focus on nostalgia and its attempt to define what “home” means in your 20s. I interpreted it as Styles officially establishing his individual artistry. Despite its lyrical simplicity, I think there’s something to be said about the lyrics being reflective of Styles’ personality and artistry. I admired that many lyrics seemed to be very specific to each respective muse and added a layer of authenticity to the music. I thought Styles was able to get away with otherwise decent lyricism because the overall sound and vibe of the album won me over. The songwriting isn’t revolutionary but the album delivers a wide variety of ranging acoustics and beats.

PHOTO COURTESY OF COLUMBIA RECORDS

“Harry’s House” is a cool medium between Styles’ first and second albums. It combines the experimental soft rock sounds of “Fine Line” with the simple but sweet songwriting of his self-titled album. The track “Music for a Sushi

Restaurant” kicks off the album on a high note and is arguably the record’s most upbeat song. When I listened to it, I knew it would instantly be a fan favorite. Much like the other tracks on the record, it’s reminiscent of ’70s dance anthems while still

distinctively a Harry Styles song. A d m i t t e d l y, t h e t r a c k “Grapejuice” lyrically reminded me of a One Direction song. However, I didn’t mind and thought it was a fun callback to his early career. The album’s only single “As It

Was” encapsulates the inescapable, haunting nostalgia we all face as we grow older. I think that it captures the best of Styles’ storytelling. Being faced with constant reminders of a past version of ourselves can be disheartening, especially with the nostalgia that accompanies our memories when we realize we can’t go back to our youth and simpler days. “Matilda” brought me to tears with its simplicity and its ability to utterly devastate me emotionally. The lyrics and slowness of the melody felt like a great comfort. This track is about reassuring a friend who is leaving the things that hurt them behind, letting them know they are allowed to write new chapters in their life. T h e r e ’s a n i n t e n t i o n a l progression of the tracks starting from very upbeat to more alluring acoustic melodies throughout the album. It’s clear that after experimenting with different sounds and tones, Styles has found his unique rhythm as a solo artist and songwriter. The album is a unique representation of himself and a culmination of his musical influences.

Editor: William L. G. Stephens | viewpoints.artsandentertainment@gmail.com

June 2, 2022

Students cheer and shout during the drag show hosted by the SAGA club May 26 in the cafeteria.

Humor, hype and queens SAGA hosts second drag show of the academic year ANGIE ESCALANTE STAFF REPORTER

Drag queens sparkled as they gave their all while dancing and lip-syncing through the cafeteria for Riverside City College students. Hollers, rhythmic clapping and laughter could be heard all around as everyone expressed their exhilaration. The event was hosted by the Sexuality And Gender Acceptance club (SAGA) to provide a space for the members of the LGBTQIA2+ to be themselves on campus. Anita Rose, the drag show host, cracked jokes and hyped up the crowd in between sets. She poked fun at the other queens while introducing them. The drag show was amazing with Rose’s sense of humor, Chyna Nicole’s astounding costumes, Luna La Rose Fierce’s intense performances, Scarlette Hawthorne’s energy and Daisy Hollywood’s confidence. The songs had students singing along and grooving. Lila Rodriguez, an RCC student and SAGA club member, had only been to one drag show before and was glad they were here for this one. “I’ve always wanted to go back (to a drag show),” they said. “So this is like an awesome opportunity.” Reed MacLean, an RCC student, attended the previous drag show SAGA hosted. “(The show is) getting better every year,” MacLean said. “Definitely coming back again because it’s one of my favorite things the school does.” The event was such a welcoming and supportive place. Anita Rose mentioned that nobody knows what people are going through and to not make things worse. “And remember, be nice to each other,” Rose said as they closed the show with these final words. “Because it’s f---ing free.”

Drag queen Daisy Hollywood, makes her appearance while students cheer her on.

TOP: The drag queens wrap up the show on stage.

Photos by Stephen Day

Drag queen Chyna Nicole performs during the drag show hosted by Riverside City College’s SAGA club May 26 in the cafeteria as part of its month of pride events.

BOTTOM: A student live streams the drag show.

June 2, 2022

OPINIONS

Editor: Darlene Dukelow-Burton

viewpoints.opinions@gmail.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF KETUT SUBIYANTO | PEXELS

opinion series

America no longer a safe country

Immigrants lose faith in U.S. safety after recent attacks

JENNIPHER VASQUEZ NEWS EDITOR

We talk about the supposed American dream in ways that glamorize life in the United States. We have “the best schools, more opportunity to make money” and the so-called “safer neighborhoods” people migrate here for. People come to the States with the goal of leaving behind a life that wasn’t safe to hopefully break long reigning barriers of poverty. I hear about both successes and

failures. What happens when the dream becomes a nightmare? When the safe neighborhood where the life you’ve cultivated a home for your family is home to the school where your child has been slain? Is that really the American dream? Like many, I can’t shake the images of the parents of students who died at the hands of yet another teenager with a gun in Texas last month. I hear the voice of a man who pleaded with people to keep an eye out for his son, Rojelio, who he later found out did not make it. As a child of immigrants who came in pursuit of the American dream, it was heartbreaking to hear his pleas and later find out his child was one of the victims. To see someone who resembled my parents crying and holding his phone with a photo of his son was devastating. When I was attending Bullard high school, we received bomb

and shooting threats twice in 2014, which caused administration to cut the day short and send everyone home. The hours leading up to our dismissal were no different than the reports I’ve seen on school shootings from the mainstream media. There were many signs that the bomb threat was coming our way, but nothing was done until it reached a breaking point. Luckily, the aggressor was apprehended but that’s not always the case. The disaster is hardly ever avoided in a country that is supposed to be a safe haven and refuge to many. When we were released from lockdown, many of us were met at the gates of the school by our parents who had all been there for hours, frantically trying to get us out. This includes my mom, who left work as soon as she heard of the threat to pick me up — just like Rojelio’s dad did. The first tweet I saw about the shooter was from someone

questioning if he crossed the border to commit the act, based on his last name. No. An immigrant did not cross the border to kill kids. Immigrants came to the United States and their child was killed by an American. My parents didn’t come here and invest in a home in one of the safest neighborhoods in my hometown to later be worried that their children weren’t safe at school. This is not the American dream any of my family, every person locked in an ICE detention center or parents of school shooting victims envisioned. The convoluted phrase, land of the free, needs to stop being used so loosely in reference to America and its principles. The only version of freedom I have seen is the Uvalde shooter freely entering the campus while the students’ parents were the ones being detained outside for trying to

save their children. I am not open to the argument that you need your guns to be safe, or that it is your right. Those children had every right to live their life to their full capacity more than you need your guns. Many children of immigrants, like myself, are working daily to take full advantage of our parents’ sacrifices and make their journey to America worth every struggle. I shouldn’t have to fear going to school. I shouldn’t have to be relieved that one of my little brothers is homeschooled yet worried about the older of the two every time he goes to his college campus. I shouldn’t have to worry that my parent’s will be left without a child or that their life’s work towards the American dream will amount to nothing within a matter of seconds because of how easily, unknown and frequent these shootings have come to be.

Additional course material costs not included College programs must extend financial aid coverage for technology costs Programs at Riverside City College, like the Promise Program, appear like great alternatives for assistance with college expenses. In reality, programs like this don’t go far enough in many cases. They can only help students with expenses directly connected to the college and do not cover third-party costs for coursework. Financial aid is designed to aid students in college costs, but it is highly misleading. JOHN MICHAEL This design is due to too many GUERRERO courses usually associated with SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Computer Informations Systems courses relying on third-party websites to supply students with C o l l e g e i s e x p e n s i v e , course materials, virtual labs and especially for Science, Technology, assignments. Engineering and Math majors. Having experienced this issue

firsthand, I found it frustrating when I was told the Promise Program would be unable to cover the financial costs of my course materials from Cengage. As a college student who does not receive much from the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), personal spending on basic needs and coursework is stressful. Knowing I am not the only student who struggles with these hidden costs for higher education is frustrating. The biggest complaint I’ve comeacross is that the costs of supplemental course material are not covered by financial aid, let alone included in the net course fees. This leads to many students

unexpectedly paying out of pocket. The same issue is extended to General Education classes. For art courses, students are expected to cover costs for rudimentary art supplies like sketchbooks, canvases, art programs and so on. These invisible costs plague almost every class that greatly relies on course materials outside of the main class. The Riverside Community College District can fix this ongoing issue by being more transparent with expenses that students should expect to encounter within each course. This should especially be the case with CIS courses. Knowing how much money students should set aside for personal costs will

help them plan out their college schedules to fit their spending costs better. Another solution would be to find a way for the college to extend support to students who wish to further their education but cannot do this because of the various software paywalls. This would help encourage people to attend college and even lower students’ stress if they’re living paycheck to paycheck. Although there should be a fine balance between supporting students and enforcing needed costs to run a college, students should not have to worry about unexpected costs when the district could do something to better prepare them for higher education.

June 2, 2022

Editor: Darlene Dukelow-Burton | viewpoints.opinions@gmail.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHARON MCCUTCHEON | PEXELS

Identity, sexuality highly politicized Out, closeted LGBTQIA2+ students need more safe spaces especially when discussing gender identity. It is frustrating how difficult it is to be open and proud of who I am for someone who continues to explore their identity. On many occasions, I try to talk to others about gender identity, and it becomes highly politicized or even put into a religious context. Everyone has the right to think, believe and say their own truth, but grouping the issues of the JOHN MICHAEL LGBTQIA2+ community into GUERRERO a religious or political lens is SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER disgusting. With Pride month right around the corner, I realized how the issues surrounding gender identity “Who are you?” That question continues to are made more complicated for plague various people’s minds, closeted people.

Many have greatly stigmatized June for its association with the LGBTQIA2+ community. As sad as it is, prejudice against queer people is still an ongoing issue, including hate crimes against transgender people, suicide among queer teens and young adults, discrimatory healthcare and lack of inclusive education. People should interrogate themselves on why they continue to perpetuate cycles of discrimination. Although Riverside City College finally has a space for LGBTQIA2+ students, it still feels as if there is not enough done to inform and raise awareness about intersectionality. From personal experience, I continue to hide my own identity

because of the fear of being persecuted, bullied and even physically harmed. I tried to open up in high school and further discover who I was, but it only led to persecution and bullying. There are various communities and cultures to explore at RCC. When it comes to queer identity, however, very few are knowledgeable on the topic outside of surface-level information. College administration should do more to help create a welcoming and safe environment for staff and faculty within the LGBTQIA2+ community. Many are misgendered and looked down on. A place that prides itself in the community should

“W hen it comes dow n to voting, it really all depends on us whether we choose to vote or not. I feel like (voting) is getting more and more irrelevant (because) a lot of people don’t really care about what happens in our country.”

“Each state has different laws that are passed. Some California laws are passed that are not passed in Texas and Connecticut, so it depends on who gets voted (in). Those laws can get changed or not, so I guess that’s the main factor (and) impact of voting.”

“By voting, you can make a big change. A lot of people don’t vote, and when (they) see the results, (they) get mad at it but don’t make any changes (to it). Just by voting, you can make a huge change. Go out and vote.”

- Jessica Rodriguez Major: English Time at RCC: second-year

-Alejandro Ordonez Ceballos Major: Visual Arts Time at RCC: second-year

-Stacy Urias Major: Spanish Time at RCC: fourth-year

foster safer and more inclusive environments. ALLY training should be mandatory for faculty and staff to help them better connect with and respect those part of the LGBTQIA2+ community. It is equally as important for all students to feel safe and welcomed as it is to create an environment where anyone can grow and discover more about themselves. I hope that people from the queer community of color, of Indigenous heritage, Asian and Pacific Islander heritage, immigrant families and so on will finally be treated as equals. As someone who has not come out yet, I hope as equals, it will be not only in an educational setting, but in every aspect of life as well.

Campus Conversations TOPIC: How will the upcoming elections affect California’s future? Interviews and photos by

Alexandra Ugale Filarca

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June 2, 2022

Editor: Darlene Dukelow-Burton | viewpoints.opinions@gmail.com

STAFF LIST

Editorial

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Leo Cabral viewpointseic@gmail.com MANAGING EDITOR Daniel E. Hernandez viewpoints.managing@gmail.com

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

Student reporters provide crucial service

ADVERTISING MANAGER viewpoints.advertising@gmail.com

College journalism programs need resources, respect

NEWS EDITOR Jennipher Vasquez viewpoints.news@gmail.com

Lack of funding, staff writers and respect are issues that student journalism programs are forced to deal with despite the service it provides for its college community. Major media outlets like CNN, The New York Times, or The Wall Street Journal will always profit and cover national news. However, our city councils, local police and college administrations are left unchecked without regional publications. We are one of those small publications. We believe that colleges across the nation should provide more resources for their journalism programs, both financially and logistically. It would benefit colleges to invest in their newsrooms because student journalists focus on creating content that showcases college events or highlights outstanding work from students and faculty. This work provides an outlet, separate from colleges’ public relations teams, to help gain the greater community’s trust in the service the college provides. Institutions have been working hard to rebuild community trust after the pandemic caused an enrollment decline. Billboards, social media ads and brochures advertising Riverside City College’s many programs are scattered throughout the Inland Empire. However, the student journalists are the ones who regularly mingle with the community and create trust with its members. If colleges helped newsrooms create strong publications, the student journalists could participate with the community and create more awareness of the college it represents. College newsrooms are also a crucial source of information because they cover stories that local publications can’t cover due to limited resources. Important information that affects students’ education, such as mandates, deadlines or breaking news, are reported on and posted throughout the publication’s network of information. For example, Viewpoints reported on RCC’s food distribution during the pandemic’s onset. They covered the implementation of the mandates as it was being voted on. Coverage during stressful and unpredictable situations like a pandemic was an important resource to the community and is a service colleges should consider growing. Colleges should also prioritize helping publications logistically by ensuring that student journalists receive the same

ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR Daesha Gear LIFE EDITOR William L.G. Stephens viewpoints.artsentertainment@ gmail.com ASSISTANT LIFE EDITORS Elaina Kleven, Sean Ryan OPINIONS EDITOR Darlene Dukelow-Burton viewpoints.opinions@gmail.com SPORTS EDITOR Hayden Kulick viewpoints.sports@gmail.com ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITORS Jesus Coronel, Jair Ramirez PHOTO EDITOR viewpoints.photo@gmail.com MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Tim Nacey multimedia.viewpoints@gmail.com SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER John Michael Guerrero viewpoints.socialmedia@gmail.com REPORTERS:

HANNAH PADILLA-ESTRELLA | VIEWPOINTS

An old Viewpoints news stand displays the 13th issue of the spring 2022 term. treatment and credentials that a mainstream journalist would receive. Viewpoints reporters or photographers are often not acknowledged and instead are treated as strangers when covering events. Most recently, our journalists were removed from the track and field state championship event despite having proper credentials. If a precedent were set throughout institutions to ensure student journalists were properly accommodated, it would significantly increase colleges’ coverage. Student journalists are still students, despite the pride we carry while carrying

LETTERS

TO THE

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.

the journalist badge. Administrators should consider creating new avenues for their students to work on being the voice of the college’s community. The Press-Enterprise and other paid media outlets are not permanent correspondents for post-secondary education. They will not report or respond to every issue or event an institution experiences, which is why a college newspaper exists to fill those gaps. The Viewpoints editorial board urges districts to continue growing their journalism programs as it is essential to the community and the growth of the institutions we all hold dear.

Samantha Ashley Laura Bautista Alyssa Cadena Mya Castro Xavier Constantino Stephen Day Angie Escalante Alexandra Ugale Filarca Julia Goldman Bryan Huerta Vianney Morales Ausja Nolan Daisy Olivo Leroy Orozco Hannah Padilla-Estrella Kristyna Ramirez Dammian Saldana

JOURNALISM SPECIALIST Matt Schoenmann matthew.schoenmann@rcc.edu

EDITOR PRINTING SCHEDULE

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August

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Viewpoints is a public forum, First Amendment newspaper. Student editors have authority to make all content decisions without censorship or advance approval. © 2022 by the Viewpoints staff, Riverside City College, 4800 Magnolia Avenue, Riverside, CA. 92506-0528. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the Viewpoints editor-in-chief.

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REACH US: NEWSROOM PHONE: (951) 222-8488 EMAIL: viewpointseic@gmail.com MEMBER:

June 2, 2022

SPORTS

Star leads team, sets example LGBTQIA2+ athlete has goals for improvement this offseason after an unexpected short season MYA CASTRO STAFF REPORTER

After transferring from Cal State San Bernardino to Riverside City College, Sarah Franco-Colis made her presence known to the softball program by becoming a key player this season. Being the oldest and first kid in her family to attend college, Colis didn’t want to leave her family — which made her decision to attend RCC a lot easier. With her first year playing for the Tigers, Colis and her team did not expect for the season to end the way it did. “We didn’t want to have such a short season going into the postseason,” Colis said. “I definitely think learning how to work together through adversity was the biggest takeaway from the season.” As far as next season goes, Colis already has goals for the team and herself. “Next season I have some numbers in mind for fielding average and batting average and it’s only going to go up from this season,” she said. “I want us to be that scrappy team that rises to the occasion and surprise some teams next year.” Not only is Colis a key player

for the team, but she is also seen as a leader. Alicia Rivera, a fellow teammate, believes Colis is one of the best. “She puts the team before anybody else,” Rivera said. “She sacrifices a lot, she’s always uplifting people no matter what and she’s honestly all around a great teammate.” While being described as one of the best, Colis believes that in order to be the best athlete it is important to consider one’s integrity. “I think what you do behind closed doors really says a lot about you and who you are off the field and not really so much in front of everybody else makes a great athlete.” She said. Outside of softball, Colis enjoys baking, being around her dogs and spending time at the beach. When it comes to important people in her life, they believe Colis is a loving person to be around. “Our relationship is very easy and fun,” said Celeste Hofacket, Colis’ partner. “She’s shy at first but once you get to know her she’s very funny, outgoing, sweet and she cares a lot about her people.” As well as being one of the many student athletes at RCC, Colis is also a part of the LGBTQIA2+ community. At around 11 years old, Colis knew that she was bisexual but kept it hidden because she felt it wasn’t the norm. Colis came out as bisexual to her parents last year and just told her grandparents. “I recently told my grandparents

Basketball Amir Davis committed to Westmont College in Santa Barbra CA. Davis averaged 6.4 points and 5.4 rebounds per game in 29 games during the 2022 season.

STEPHEN DAY | VIEWPOINTS

Sarah Franco-Colis, INF, checks outfield to see if rounding third for home is an option during the April 20 game against the Orange Crest Pirates.

that I had been dating my partner at that time for two months,” Colis said. “And they were like ‘okay well we’re gonna love you no matter what’ but it was still a little shocking to them.” When it comes to LGBTQIA2+representation in the sports world, Colis looks up to a lot of softball players who are also part of the community. “With social media having such a huge presence today, I think (representation) is only going to get bigger,” she said. “And I feel as if athletes now are going to feel more

comfortable coming out as their authentic selves.” For younger athletes struggling with their sexuality, Colis wants them to know that there are people out there just like them and people who will support them just like her family, friends and teammates do. “In college and in the pro softball world there are a lot of out athletes and I think that it’s good for the younger generations to see that and think ‘hey this is somebody I can relate to who has the same goals as me and is achieving them,’” Colis said.

XAVIER CONSTANTINO STAFF REPORTER

ERIK GALICIA | VIEWPOINTS

A Riverside County ballot drop-off collects election votes Nov. 3, 2020.

California may legalize sports gambling The 2024 California midterm election has the potential to satisfy gamblers’ desire to bet on sports. This election features a ballot measure that will legalize sports betting at American Indian gaming casinos and licensed racetracks in California. The ballot measure would allow people to place bets on professional and amatuer sports in casinos and licensed race tracks — with the exception of high school sports. This ballot would also require the casinos and racetracks to distribute 15% of the revenue

to the California Department of Health for researching, developing and implementing programs to prevent gambling addictions and 15% to the Bureau of Gambling Control. The final 70% would go to the general fund. The ballot measure would also make dice games such as craps and roulette legal at tribal casinos. Out of the three ballot measures, this one has gained the most popularity. According to Ballotpedia. org, over $30 million in support contributions were raised by 44 different unions, organizations and Indian tribes, whereas the other two

Sports Briefs Football Jammal Houston committed to Grambling State University in Grambling, LA. Houston had 757 receiving yards and five touchdowns in 12 games during the 2021 season. Former Riverside City College kicker Jonathan Garibay was signed by the Dallas Cowboys.

Sports world reacts to Uvalde

HAYDEN KULICK SPORTS EDITOR

Editor: Hayden Kulick viewpoints.sports@gmail.com

ballots have raised a combined $7 million. Supporters of the measure believe that Californians should have the right and freedom to gamble on what they want. They also believe the measure allows gambling in a “responsible manner.” Taxpayers Against Special Interest Monopolies is the leading opposition and is backed by eight different corporations and unions. The main argument against the measure is that cities in California should be investing their money into the safety and well being of their residents.

The sports world reacted to the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde Texas by offering condolences and sharing emotions. “Our hearts are broken tonight,” Major League Baseball wrote in a statement. “Major League Baseball mourns with the families and friends of the victims of today’s senseless tragedy and for all the people of Uvalde, Texas.” Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr slammed a table during a pregame press conference and spoke about the recent attack. “I’m tired, so tired of getting up here and offering condolences to the devastated families that are out there,” Kerr said while fighting back tears. “I’m tired of the moments of silence. Enough!” Los Angeles stars Lebron James and Mookie Betts shared their disbelief and opinions of the attack on Twitter. The Associated Press stated that the shooting was the deadliest at a U.S. school since the Sandy Hook shooting nearly a decade ago that took the lives of 20 children and 6 adults.

Track and Field T h e w o m e n ’s t e a m t o o k second place overall at the California Community College Athletic Association State Championships. Joshua Hornsby took first place in the men’s 110-meter hurdles with a time of 13.96 at the CCCAA State Championships. Alejandra Rosales took first in the women’s discus throwing 44.02-meters. Zoe Ewell took first place in the women’s 100-meter dash running 11.79 seconds. Hailey Hunt took second in the women’s 100-meter dash with a time of 11.93 seconds and took first place in the 200-meter dash with a time of 24.14. The women’s 1600-meter relay team took first place with a time of 3 minutes and 58.81seconds. High school track and field Josiah Ettore from Ramona High School broke three state meet records at the California Interscholastic Federation state meet placing first in the wheelchair 100-meter, 200-meter and 400-meter with times of 16.74 seconds 32.14 seconds and 1 minute and 5.18 seconds. Seth Johnson from Cajon High School took first place in the boys’ high jump jumping 6 feet and 7-5. Alyssa Hope from Martin Luther King High School placed first in the girl’s triple jump, jumping 40-2 3/4.

All of these dates are subject to change due to possible regulations to come involving the containment of the coronavirus. To stay up to date on upcoming campus events, v i s i t t h e Vi e w p o i n t s 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.sports@gmail. com.

Editor: Hayden Kulick | viewpoints.sports@gmail.com

June 2, 2022

PHOTOS BY STEPHEN DAY

Hayden Coon pitched a strong first three innings retiring seven consecutive batters, but was pulled in the top of the fourth after allowing three runs to beat the Cypress College Chargers 10-5 in game three of the rubber match of the California Community College Athletic Association Southern Regional round two.

A team built for victory CCCAA from page 1 pandemic, there was also a level of consistency. “We had to do some real, real soul searching and there was a lot of scenarios and situations with individuals and what not that we had to spend extra time outside of the game,” Arguelles said. Trailing by two runs in the bottom of the eight inning, freshman shortstop Sebastian Flores hit a game tying double down the third baseline. With two outs, outfielder Matthew Bardowell drove in Flores to give RCC back the lead. Center fielder Julian Alvarez singled up the middle with runners on second and third to give the Tigers a three run lead going into the ninth inning. “My family, the passion for this game and the love I have for every single one of these guys,” Alvarez said. “That’s exactly why we’re here and exactly why we’re holding up that championship right now.” Alvarez was named series Most Valuable Player. The Falcons scored a run in the top of the ninth inning after a couple of RCC mishaps in the infield. With a couple runners on, freshman pitcher Albert Roblez managed to strike out the winning run to complete the save. Arguelles was a part of the teams’ four previous championships as an assistant coach. This is his first as head coach. “Who knows when the next one is going to be but we’re going to enjoy this one right now,” Arguelles said.

Riverside City College Tigers congratulate each other after a successful inning. Tigers hosted the Golden West Hustlers with a 10-1 victory April 8.

Daniel Garcia delivers a two run home run during the first inning setting the tone for the rest of the game against the Cypress Chargers. Tigers beat the Cypress Chargers 10-5 in game 3 of the rubber match of the California Community College Athletic Association Southern Regional round two.

June 2, 2022

California’s best compete for state championship title

Editor: Hayden Kulick | viewpoints.sports@gmail.com Nine hurdlers race against one another in the boys’ CIF State Championship 300 hurdle race May 28.

FROM THE LEFT: Brian Arens, Elijah Lindsey and Dijon Stanley begin the third leg of the boys’ California Interscholastic Federation State Championship 400-meter relay at Buchanan High School May 28. The Central relay team would go on to take first place in the event with a time of 41.36.

TOP: Golden Valley’s Taahjah Fann (LEFT) passes the baton to Navaeh Williams (RIGHT) during the first heat of the 400-meter relay. Golden Valley would go on to place the fastest time during the prelims but came in second during the championship race.

Photos by Daniel Hernandez

Sadie Engelhardt (RIGHT) leads the pack alongside Sam Mcdonnell (LEFT) during the first heat of the 1600-meter run at the CIF State Championships

BOTTOM: Kai Graves-Blanks leaps around in joy after winning the boys’ 110-meter hurdles at the CIF State Championships.

Viewpoints spring 2022 vol. 100 issue no. 14, June 2

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