Viewpoints issue No. 2 September 22, 2016 by RCC Viewpoints

yNEWS

ySPORTS

Football dominates at home

Student Trustee calls for change

yOPINIONS

Hillary’s email scandal continues

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VOL. XCVII, NO. 2

SEPTEMBER 22, 2016

Wells Fargo admits major foul

Millions of customers effected by ghost accounts being created in their name MISTY SEVERI @MistySeveri

Riverside City College students were left worried after Wells Fargo fired 5,300 of its employees on Sept. 8 for opening 2 million unknown and unwanted accounts for existing customers. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) fined Wells Fargo $100 million for the widespread illegal practice of secretly opening unauthorized deposit and credit card accounts. $50 million of the fine went towards the city and county of Los Angeles. While $35 million of the fine Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. The problem that has been going on nationwide for five years. Although it has not been reported that customers in Riverside have been affected by this news, RCC students have expressed concerns regarding the issue and are considering closing their accounts due to a lack of trust. “This is our bank,” said

JESSICA VELOZ | VIEWPOINTS

Riverside City College student withdraws cash at the Wells Fargo ATM machine outside the Cesar Chavez Building

Alexandria Jordan, an RCC student. “This is where we are putting our money, we should be able to feel safe about that and I just don’t feel safe.” The Riverside branch at 6189 Magnolia Ave., which provides service to RCC, declined to comment. Other students like Natsumi Kanashiro are supportive of Wells Fargo, but want more information before switching to another bank. “Although this has happened

recently, I think we would stay until we heard more about it,” said Kanashiro, “We’ve spent a lot of time with them, they’re always very honest with us, very one on one.” Kanashiro added that he would consider withdrawing his account only if the issue became a bigger problem. A Wells Fargo executive commented on the situation. “On average 1 percent of employees have not done the right thing and we terminated

them” said John G. Stumpf, Wells Fargo chief executive officer in a Washington Post article. “You want to get perfection. When we’re not perfect, I feel accountable,” said Stumpf. The investigation is still ongoing, although it is clear that multiple violations occurred. The violations include opening deposit accounts, transferring funds without authorization, applying for credit cards without authorization,

issuing and activating debit cards without authorization and creating phony email addresses to enroll consumers in onlinebanking services, according to a CFPB press release. An article from CNNMoney details how employees who failed to meet their daily goals were reprimanded and told to do “whatever it takes to meet individual sales quotas,” according to allegations in the California lawsuit. “One former Wells Fargo employee ... said he experienced this firsthand, he said managers told him to open unauthorized accounts and when customers called to apologize and say it was a mistake.” In response, Wells Fargo is being ordered to refund fees and charges that were paid because of these unauthorized accounts. “It’s important to note that we sent letters and communicated with customers through their statements to let them know if they were impacted and refund them any fees they may have incurred,” said Richele Messick, a spokesperson for Wells Fargo. “The average refund was $25 and that was completed during the first quarter of this year. However, if anyone has questions we invite them to reach out to us.”

For more content visit us at viewpointsonline.org or on @ RCCviewpoints on Twitter

Student Equity Program provides food vouchers LESLIE SANTIBANEZ-MOLIA @RCCviewpoints

With the arrival of the fall semester the Student Equity Program is here to help students who are in need of textbooks, free gas money and food. Textbooks are materials students use to pass a course. Without a reliable mode of transportation or access to textbooks, students tend to drop courses. The Guardian describes college in America being filled with, “too many barriers beyond tuition costs holding

students back from higher education.” They addressed that in 2014, “Germany realized that education bills as small as $1,300 discouraged students from attending school.” Riverside City College now has a plan to counter the difficulties students face in college. The plan is known as the Student Equity Program. RCC’s Student Equity Report describes the goal of the program as, “beginning with a basic equity principle ... don’t lose the student.” The program has a priority of helping students succeed in college. “Their goal is to ensure that all students are getting equitable access to programs

… and are succeeding at rates that are proportional to their population,” said instructor of history and ethnic studies, Kristi Woods. To gain a clearer understanding on their students,RCC gathered data. This data focuses on Student Equity groups and how their success rates are compared to other Equity groups. These Equity groups are based on students backgrounds and the distinct challenges they face in college. For instance Asian Pacific Islander, Latinos and African American students may have different obstacles. The executive summary addresses the reasons behind the

challenges these groups of students face. Previous RCC programs often failed to assist students from these groups. RCC’s SEP Report mentioned how, “the programs were often dependent … on faculty and staff willing to put in additional time to make such programs work effectively.” This would result in students not improving their success rates, thus creating gaps. To counteract these gaps the SEP Report plans to, “address systemic institutional barriers that impede students success.” Anyone can be part of the program, but must meet one requirement to qualify for

See EQUITY on Page 3

September 22, 2016

News

Instructor honored Riverside City College holds a service for Al Parker

yAugust 30 Hit and run property damage A traffic collision occurred in the parking structure by Magnolia Ave. No one was injured in the accident.

y August 30 Battery between two students One male and female, boyfriend and girlfriend were involved in a confrontation, reported at 11:14 a.m. The male was detained for questioning. No one was injured.

y August 31 Battery and theft attempt on a student A student was assaulted in a petty theft attempt at the Digital Library. One student tried to steal another student’s backpack and assaulted him in the process. This was reported only eight minutes after the incident which occurred at 11:20 a.m. There are no suspects at this time. y Sept. 6 Grand theft from Quadrangle Video equipment and digital equipment were stolen from a classroom in the Quadrangle. There are no suspects at this time.

y Sept. 7 Threat to student via social media A female student reported being threatened via social media. Both parties involved were students.

IMAGE COURTESY OF RCC DIGITAL LIBRARY ARCHIVES

NAHID PONCIANO @RCCviewpoints

ySept. 9 Female student insulted A female student reported that an unknown male suspect was making “rude and inappropriate” comments toward her.

ySept. 12 Student’s property stolen Personal belongings of a student were stolen from the Martin Luther King building. There are no suspects at this time.

ySept. 12 Hit and run in Parking Structure A hit and run collision on the top level of the parking structure was reported at 1:30 p.m. There was property damage although no injuries were reported. There are no suspects at this time.

ySept. 14 Break-in at Wheelock Gym There was a break-in and burglary to a locker room in the Wheelock stadium. Some property damage was also done.

ySept. 15 Elevator defaced Someone defaced the elevator outside of the Digital Library with a permanent marker.

ySept. 19 Student refuses to leave school property The police escorted a student off of campus after the student refused to leave the property.

A service as held on Sept. 9 for Professor Emeritus Al Parker of Riverside City College left his mark on all those he came into contact with, from colleagues to students, friends and family. Many were impacted by the loss of Parker who died June 8 in his home surrounded by his family. He taught Latin American history and political science at the college since 1969 and continued to teach courses online after he retired. During his time at RCC he was adviser for the Ski Club and Mecha, Movimiento Estudiantil Chicana/Chicano de Aztlan, a national student organization that unites Chicano students to enhance the development of their society. G e r a r d Forlenze, colleague and history instructor at RCC, describes P a r k e r ’s g o a l as he believes it should be the goal of all instructors. “He wanted them to learn and understand history.” Forlenze said. “Understand that if you don’t know where you came from you don’t know where you’re going because you have to understand your past.”

Not only did Parker stress the topic of history but how his students obtained this information. “His passion was the classroom and helping them succeed,” colleague Kristi Woods said. “They always had conversations about what to do and what we could do better.” This served to be true as former student Richard Kennedy, who took one of Parker’s Latin American history classes, explains how his view on the subject had changed. “Even at his age he was always on top of the latest research and the latest historical arguments so again that kind of made me realize that history is an

“

“Seeing that human side is very impactful and that changed my life forever,”

-- Richard Kennedy former RCC student

ever changing story,” Kennedy said. “It’s not one story and it’s not one narrative. It changes overtime and to see him reflect that was important to me as a student.” Along with being the best professor Parker could be in the

classroom he also made sure to be as involved, approachable and emotionally available. “Seeing that human side is very impactful and that changed my life forever,” Kennedy said. Due to Parker being open with his students, Kennedy has decided to pursue teaching and is currently working on his credentials. Bill Osborn met Parker in 1973 as he was taking one of his classes which he quickly dropped. They maintained a friendship even after the fact and it soon turned into a family bond. “He and his family pretty much embraced me to the point where when we stopped by at dinner time there would be a dinner plate on the table for me. It was that kind of a relationship,” Osborn said. “He was very supportive of me which over the years my own family didn’t even do that.” P a r k e r ’s c a r i n g a n d understanding carries through to his family as they state how they feel toward the response of Parker’s death. “It’s nice to see how many lives that our dad has touched,” said Parker’s daughter Michelle Frahm. “To see them here to remember him.” “We’re just really looking forward to seeing people, hearing stories and celebrating his life,” she continued. “I don’t think he’d want to be mourned. He loved everybody. If there’s somebody here then they’re here because they touched him and he touched them and that’s really special.”

News

Pleading for a vote Student trustee pushes to amend Board Policy 2015 DIEGO GARCIA

@RCCviewpoints

The Associated Student Trustee of Riverside Community College District Sammi J. Ayoub is pushing to have a board policy amended in order to give future Student Trustees the ability to have an advisory vote. RCCD Board of Trustees reviewed Board Policy 2015 Student Trustee on Sept. 6 at RCCD’s committee meeting due to Ayoub’s persistence to agendize BP AP 2015, but was denied any further proceedings. Ayoub said that he is currently recognized as a full Board member, but is unable to give an advisory vote or second motion. “The whole idea is to finally hit the final brick in the wall, achieve student success and to have students be curious (and) be decisive,” he said. Education Code Section 72023.5 allots an institution’s board the ability to enact a policy within their jurisdiction, that allows a member or members of the student body the opportunity to be elected as a full member of an educational board, but will be a non-voting member. According to Education Code 72023.5, those individuals who campaign for office must be elected by voting-members of the student body in which they (student trustee or trustees) belong to. Likewise, elected student trustees are subject to an impeachment process, in which the student body of their jurisdiction will have the sole responsibility to accomplish. According to AP 2015 a Student Trustee’s one year term begins at the first Board meeting following the end of the Spring semester. RCCD Board President Virginia Blumenthal offered insight on how a second motion may be detrimental for those who do not perceive student issues in the same way that their Student Trustee (Ayoub) might perceive them. She also reports that an advisory vote may be reasonable. “I have no problem with an advisory vote … I would see a situation you might personally believe and the student leaders may believe another way. I do have difficulty with a second

assistance. Students must already be in a qualifying program such as La Casa, Ujima Project, Foster Youth, Veterans Center, Disability Resource Center, Extended Opportunity Programs and Services, and TRIO Student Support Services. These programs offer a variety of benefits for students such as meal vouchers, gas cards, textbook loans, lending libraries and chid care. RCC

News Briefs GSA promotes family values

The Gender Sexuality and Awareness club, at Riverside City College, invites the public to attend their club meeting which are scheduled from 12:50 to 1:50 every Thursday in the Quadrangle, Room 103. GSA promotes these meetings for LGBTQ students, but all are welcomed. GSA President, Oscar Nunez, sums up one core value which is, “we are one big family.”

September equinox celebration

STACY SORIANO | VIEWPOINTS

Student Trustree Sammie Ayoub discusses the agenda for the Student District Counsultation Council meeting on Sept. 20 at the Riverside Community College District offices. mention,” she said. RCCD’s Student Trustee currently initiates the Pledge of Allegiance at all Board meetings and reports on student activities pertaining to the three colleges within the District. The Student Trustee is also able to call Student District Consultation Council meetings in which he will reserve his right to vote until or if a tie calls for a break in votes. According to Ayoub, it has been ten years since a student trustee has made an impactful presence while serving on the Board. “The role (student trustee) does not define me. I define the role,” he said. RCCD’s AP 2015 awards a Student Trustee compensation for time served. They (student trustees) are compensated by two $300 scholarships, which are dispersed at the end of each semester. Trustee Mary Figueroa reveals that an advisory vote or second motion could cause inconsistencies due to a student trustees one year term. She also outlines some of the difficulties that can arise when having a voting-board of six members. “Your (future student trustees) knowledge of (an) issue may not end up being consistent because if something comes before the Board now, then by the time it finds its way through the entire procedure it may not be voted on until the next Student Trustee comes on board, she said. “Would that next student

have prior knowledge of the Board committee meetings? But the factors are what the pros and cons are. It takes about 18 month or so before something goes all the way through, which is something to consider … Even if they (the Board) decided that they (will) allow the Student Trustee to vote, you could end up with a tie. The five (board members) does not allow for that to happen … So adding a student trustee vote, even if it is advisory, it would add that split. You would have a tie vote a lot more, I think.” Currently, the San Bernardino Community College Board and Chaffey College Governing Board also abide by Educational Code section 72023.5 provisions giving a student or students the ability to run for office and be recognized as a full board member, those policies are also deemed BP 2015. SBCC Board and CC Governing Board’s policy 2015 introduces a clause, pursuant to Education Code Section 72023.5, that states, “On or before May 15 of each year, the Governing Board shall consider whether to afford the student member any of the following privileges.” These privileges include but are not limited to the privilege to make and second motions, the privilege to attend closed sessions, other than closed sessions on persons or collective bargaining matters. Ayoub claims that a review of BP AP 2015 will once again be agendized some time in November or December of this year.

receives government funding for these programs. Forming a community is part of the programs method to help students achieve their goals. Family is essential to the program and is reflected in their motto “each one, reach one.” A community can be formed anywhere, this is why instructors, counseling, workshops, study groups, and tutoring are included in the Equity Program. Another method of the Equity Program is that, “more faculty understand

that we’re trying to shift the culture of RCC to support students,” Woods explained. “Trust equals to more success,” Woods said. Communication between students and instructors results in more trust. A l t h o u g h R C C ’s E S P Report data focuses on Student Equity groups college success rate, anyone is welcome in any program. The overall goal of the Student Equity Program is to help students.

Equity program aids students EQUITY from Page 1

September 22, 2016

The Student Sustainability Collective, at Riverside City College, is scheduled to celebrate the September Equinox, for the fourth year in a row, on September 24. The celebration is scheduled to take place at RCC’s Community Garden from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event is open to the public and will have food, live music and rock painting for attendees.

ASRCC resource center in need Associated Students of Riverside City College’s Resource Center, needs donations in order to supply its daily 300+ studentvisitors. Donatable items include, but are not limited to, school supplies, soap, deodorant, lotion, toothpaste, non-perishable food items and any cash donations. Contact Deborah M. Hall at Deborah.Hall@rcc.edu, for information about donating.

Nurses receive new tech Riverside City College’s School of Nursing, provides student-nurses with opportunities to perform procedures on reallife mannequins that react to stimuli. The program also offers virtual reality scenarios in which the student-nurses may take part in. Brandee Smith, nursing student, gives feedback on what the mannequins provide for nursing students like herself, and how much that is valued within the Nursing program. “It’s a really good way to experience hands on things like when you’re osculating for lung sounds and heart sounds,” said Smith. Gale Ribota, RCC nursing student, provides some insight on what the Nursing program, at RCC, provides for students like herself and what she loves about it. “The faculty is so helpful and so knowledgeable … Some people say it’s cut throat, but when you get there, it’s not like that. They (faculty) provides a lot of support ,” said Ribota.

Culinary dining room opens Riverside City College Culinary Dining Room, opens its doors on September 20. The academy is open for breakfast and lunch, but is closed on Mondays. Breakfast hours are from 8:30 a.m. through 9:45 a.m. Lunch hours are from 11 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. The lunch menu consists of hand-made burgers or garden veggie burgers with a choice side of soup, salad or French fries. The lunch menu also includes various “on the side” items, for $4.50. A Chef’s Specialty Menu is also offered, that menu includes, but is not limited to a soup of the day, gyros, sandwiches, pizza and paella Valencia. Contact Chef Bobby Moghaddam at Bobby.Moghaddam@ rcc.edu or Dawn Martin at Dawn.Martin@rcc.edu for more details.

Corrections It was previously reported on page one of the August 25 issue that ASRCC had violated the Gloria Romero Open Meetings Act. However, the act that was violated was the Brown Act. The Romero Act only regulates California State Universities. In the news brief on page two of the August 25 issue Al Parker’s name was incorrectly stated. In the August 19 crime brief the title should have read that golf cart equipment was stolen outside of Wheelock Gym.

Features

September 22, 2016

RCC student lead singer of Johnny and the Ravens Math and Science major Marlena Hernandez is the lead singer of an Inland Empire band MARY VALTERRIA @RCCviewpoints

The sun is about to go down, but the night is about to turn up. The sounds of classic rock stream from an iPhone sitting on the dresser. Mascara and eyeshadow are strewn about as the curling iron is set to high. Most importantly, five shot glasses are lined up on the counter. This is the setting that Riverside City College student Marlena “Marly” Hernandez finds herself in every weekend. Hernandez is the lead singer of Johnny and the Ravens, an Inland Empire based rock band. The shots are not all for her. The other four shots are for her band mates. As a pre-gig ritual, the shots are taken right before Johnny and his Ravens leave the house before a performance. “The shot is sometimes the only drink I’ll have for 4-6 hours aside from water,” exclaimed Hernandez. Johnny and the Ravens mainly perform classic rock songs but are also known to put their own twist on the music they play. Hernandez said they have a mixed crowd of all ages. “Everyone can appreciate good music,” said Hernandez. “That’s what we strive to provide.” Johnny and the Ravens was created in 2013 by John Silva, known to his fans as “Johnny.” S i l v a is both the drummer and father to band member Chad Silva, who goes by just “Chad.” Daughterin-law Sarah Silva, whose stage name is “Red,” contributes on bass as well as dealing with bookings. In recent years, the Ravens have grown and taken over more venues, including local bars such as Lake Alice in Riverside and Sportsman in Corona.

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Although the tattoo on Hernandez’s forearm would lead you to believe that music is her whole life, she does engage in many other endeavors besides rocking out. As a returning RCC student, Hernandez is a Math and Science major looking to pursue a career in the medical field. She also works full time in a business office during the week. Hernandez has a full schedule, but says that she still manages to give her all into everything she does. “It’s hard to manage work, school and being in a band,” said Hernandez. “But somehow I make it work … I just really love singing.” Hernandez has been singing almost all of her life and even affixes a red scarf to her microphone during special gigs to pay homage to her older brother Louie Joel Hernandez. The elder Hernandez hung scarves from his mic stand while performing with his own rock band before passing away in 1993. Musical talent seems to run deep in the Hernandez family. So much so, that Hernandez’s sister recently joined the Ravens as a back-up singer. Lyana “Lily” Hernandez also plays the harmonica and is a former RCC student. The Silvas and the two Hernandez sisters have gained a following of fans since they joined together last year. “The performances are energetic and the music is really good and lively,” said fan Alicia Sandoval-Patin.

“There’s a harmony amongst the band that you can really feel.”

-- Melissa Lopez, RCC student

Sandoval-Patin keeps track of the Ravens schedule and attends most shows. “There’s a harmony amongst the band that you can really feel,” said RCC student Melissa Lopez,

STACY SORIANO | VIEWPOINTS

Math and Science major Marlena Hernandez is the lead singer of Johnny and the Ravens, a classic rock band established in 2013 that has performed in local bars like Lake Alice in downtown Riverside. who recently attended her first Ravens gig at Lake Alice. “I’ll definitely be back to see the Ravens again.” Lopez wasn’t the only one who felt harmony in the presence of the Ravens. John Silva, who has been playing the drums for 45 years, noted that the Ravens have expanded its audience with the addition of the Hernandez sisters. “This band has just come up phenomenally,” said Silva. “There is nothing that can get in our way.” “Johnny and the Ravens was created because we all love music; we knew it would work because we’re family,” added Silva. “We function as a family and make decisions together,” said Hernandez, who has even coined the term “Bamily,” for her band mates turned family. Johnny and the Ravens is making big strides and Hernandez said she couldn’t be happier. “Johnny and the Ravens has grown so much and is playing more venues now than ever,” said Hernandez. “Sometimes we even

STACY SORIANO | VIEWPOINTS

Lead singer of Johnny and the Ravens, Marlena Hernandez, sings “Me and Bobby McGee” by Janis Joplin in an alley near Lake Alice in downtown Riverside on Sept. 17. have to turn down gigs.” Hernandez added that venues, such as the Chuck Wagon in Corona, who typically do not book live performances, have given the Ravens exclusive access.

“I just love being a part of Johnny and the Ravens,” said Hernandez with a glimmer in her eye. “It’s my calling.”

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September 22, 2016

SPORTS

“On a team, it’s not the strength of the individual players, but the strength of the unit and how they all function together,”

- Bill Belichick

A LOOK AHEAD AWAY

HOME

Football SAT 9/24 @ Ventura College

SAT 10/3 Wheelock Stadium

SAT 10/15 @ Chaffey College

6 p.m.

Men’s Water polo FRI 9/23 @ Cuesta College

SAT 9/24 @ Cuesta College

WED 9/28 @ Orange Crest

8 a.m.

4 p.m.

Volleyball FRI 9/23 @ Santiago Canyon 6 p.m.

WED SAT 9/28 9/24 RCC @Grossmont Huntley Gym College 2 p.m.

6 p.m.

Women’s Water polo STACY SORIANO | VIEWPOINTS

Three Bakersfield College defenders struggle to bring down running back Seth Acda on Sept. 17, Acda led in rushing yards with 175 versus the Renegades who were defeated, 45-7 by the Tigers.

Tigers win big at home

Riverside City College dominates Bakersfield to stay undefeated at 3-0 KALEB DEMISSIE @Kalebdamissle

to force a three and out, allowing the offense to get back on the field. After getting a minimum gain on first down, RCC decided to roll with a trick play. They almost scored, but the receiver was out of bounds. Anderson was able to convert the third down on the following play, setting up the TD by Jacoby Herring Just before the half, the Tigers were able to squeeze in a 34yard field goal made by John Hilfer. Going into halftime, RCC was up 17-0.

The Tigers continue their journey to become the best in the state by beating Bakersfield College, 45-7, at Wheelock Stadium on Sept. 17. Offensively, the Tigers were unable to get anything started in the first quarter. Defensively, however, they were able to keep Bakersfield out of the red zone for most of the game. After not scoring d u r i n g -- Tom Craft their first Football head coach at RCC possessions, adjustments were made. Quarterback Ian Fieber was subbed for Collyn Returning from halftime, it Anderson. seemed that it was another three The Tigers’ offense started and out by the Renegades, when to pick up when Anderson a late flag was thrown against connected with Darius Hunter the Tigers defense, resulting in for a 42-yard reception, putting Bakersfield’s first down. Even the Tigers near the red zone. A 19after being given a new set of yard rush by El Toro Allen, who downs, Bakersfield was unable put the Tigers in the red zone, to get past the Tigers’ defense, soon followed the play. forcing them to punt again. Soon after, Seth Acda ran the Building off their momentum ball to the 1-yard line, setting up from the 2nd quarter, the Tigers the go ahead touchdown. scored in under three minutes, The Tigers were rolling once thanks to a 47-yard strike from again when their defense was able Anderson to Erik Brown.

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“That’s going to be a true test for our defense”

A f t e r t h e Ti g e r s ’ k i c k off, Bakersfield’s QB Cesar De Leon overthrew to his intended receiver, leading to an interception by RCC’s Zach Kupka who managed a 10yard return to the Bakersfield 28-yard line. Following the interception, Anderson threw a 28-yard touchdown to Dominique Maiden. The score was 31-0. Bakersfield got the ball back after the Tigers scored, only to go three and out yet again thanks to the Tigers’ superior defense. The Tigers were on the move again after Anderson connected with Darius Hunter for a 30-yard gain to the Bakersfield 24-yard line. After a couple of plays and penalties, Acda rushed from 19-yards out for the touchdown, extending the Tigers’ lead to 38-0. After being shut out for nearly three quarters, Bakersfield finally built a sustainable drive, resulting in a 24-yard rushing touchdown by Derrick Vickers. This would, however, be the last time Bakersfield would see the end zone. As for the Tigers, they saw the end zone with a 5-yard rush from Tyree Range, making the score 45-7. In the five minutes remaining in the 4th quarter, the Tigers’ defense held Bakersfield to nothing and ran out the clock to secure a 45-7 victory.

There were a lot of impressive performances on both sides of the ball this game. Anderson 11/19 229 passing yards and 3 TD’s, Acda 175 rush yards on 23 carries and a TD, Interceptions by Tareke Lewis, Zach Kupka and James Reeder with 6 tackles and a tackle for a loss. Allen and Range were also very impressive at the running back spot, with Allen averaging almost 9-yards per carry and Range averaging 6-yards per carry and scoring a touchdown. The wide receiver’s had very productive night as Dominique Maiden, Eric Brown and Jacoby Herring all had touchdowns. When asked about the Tigers performance, “It feels good, but we need to cut out the penalties.

WED 9/28 @ Orange Coast

THUR 9/29 @ Citrus College

FRI 9/30 @ Cuesta College

3 p.m.

8 a.m.

Cross Country SAT 9/23 @Central Park Huntington Beach 10 a.m.

FRI 10/7 RCC Course

FRI 10/21 @CSU Fullerton

10 a.m.

5 p.m.

I’m not happy with that,” Coach Craft said. When asked about next week’s match up against Ventura, Craft said “That’s going to be a true test for our defense, because we haven’t went up against a team with an offense as nice as theirs.” The Tigers will go on to play against Ventura College at Ventura on Sept. 24 at 6 p.m.

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DANIEL FRANCIS | VIEWPOINTS

Tigers running back El Toro Allen dodges Renegades player Zion Williams on Sept. 17.

Sports

September 22, 2016

Women’s water polo triumphs

Riverside City College continues winning streak, remaining undefeated mid-season at 9-0

Sports Briefs Remember to use

#RCCnow on Twitter and Facebook!

Football team ranked No.1

ALEX SANCHEZ | VIEWPOINTS

Attacker Emily Lawless and teammate Daisy Kirby block Paige Treloar-Ballard from Ventura College, the Tigers defeated the Pirates 15-8 on Sept. 17. TYLER NELSON @TylerJNelson1

Wo m e n ’ s w a t e r p o l o impresses at Riverside City College tournament. Before the inaugural Riverside City College tournament, which was held Sept. 16-17 the women’s water polo team destroyed any competition in their path, by holding an overall record of 5-0. This tournament proved to be no different. The team continued their winning streak on Sept.16 as they beat Chaffey College 16-2. In the game, sophomore Emily Martin would lead RCC with four goals. They followed their dominating performance with yet another win against Citrus College with a final score of 121. In that game, the Tigers played excellent defense and captain Mary Meyers would produce five goals. After the tournament, when asked what was coach Doug Finfrock secret behind the women’s team being so dominant, “We take a lot of pride in what we do, we recruit hard, and we get quality athletes in here,” he said. “We train hard and we really try and teach the game and the fundamentals to these young ladies.” Every team has something unique about them every year.

When asked what makes this year unique compared to all of the others, “We have good depth this year and I think we have good leadership with our sophomores, and they made it to state finals last year, so experience always helps,” Finfrock said. As the tournament moved on to Sept.17, the team did not miss a beat as they would go on to defeat Ventura College with a score of 15-8. Meyers would lead RCC in scoring with three goals. Although RCC dominated for most of the tournament, Meyers believes the team can still improve, “I think we need to work on our teamwork and communicate to each other,” Meyers said. “We do see a lot of other players in the pool, and we want to get them involved.” Later on in the day, the women’s team would once again prove their domination after beating Cerritos College with a score of 17-3. RCC would have 13 different players contribute with a goal, having an overall record of 9-0 on the season. Finfrock would go on to highlight key players such as Martin and Meyers on how they’ve stepped up as leaders by using their experience from last years’ state final run for the team. Finfrock believes that all of his players can step up and contribute which is key for a successful season. The women’s water polo

team closed out a successful tournament going 4-0. Besides being state champions, Finfrock has other goals in mind for the team, “We want to maximize our potential,” he said. “If we play with consistency and we buy into the program, we can have these ladies transfer out of here and make it a highlight of their life”. When asked what’s it like to play for Coach Finfrock, “He’s the perfect amount of tough and funny and he has the perfect balance of what a coach should be and we love playing for our coach,” Meyers said. The women’s water polo team looks to improve to an overall record of 10-0 as they take on Orange Coast College on Sept. 28, at 3 p.m.

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The Riverside City College Tigers football team has stayed at the No. 1 position in the JC Athletic Bureau’s Statewide Poll of California Community College Football Coaches. They have held the position since Sept. 13. Beating Saddleback College who no holds the No. 2 position. They were tied for this week’s No. 1 but it ultimately went to RCC. Quarterback Collyn Anderson helped the Tigers win last week against Bakersfield 45-7. “It feels good knowing the work we put in to get to this point” “It’s going to get tougher. We are just focused on being number 1 at the end when it’s all said and done.” The Tigers go on to face Ventura College on Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. in Ventura.

Volleyball wins past two games The Riverside City College volleyball team has won two of their past games. In the Orange Empire Conference, they are ranked No.3 behind Cypress and Golden West. They won 3-0 against Cerritos on Sept. 14 and 3-0 against Fullerton College on Sept. 16. They will play against Santiago Canyon on Sept. 23 at 6 p.m. We went to press and were unable to know the results for Sept.21 game.

Men’s water polo dominates The Riverside City College Men’s water polo won 25-9 against Santa Ana Sept. 14. In the first half they lead against Santa Ana 15-4 with most of goals being made by Sophomore Jonah Saenz. After the second quarter the Tigers went full force on the Dons’ winning in the 3rd and fourth quarter 10-5 with most of the goals made by Lazar Raca during the third quarter. The Tigers will compete in the Cuesta College tournament on Sept. 23-24.

Cross country finish in top five The men’s cross country team finished in first place while the women placed fifth at the Southern California Preview Championships hosted by the Orange Empire Conference on Sept. 16. The top three finishers for the men were sophomore Joshua Silva who came in second with a time of 20:36 in the four-mile course. While Cristian Malloy came in 12th with a time of 21:16 followed by Michael Simpson who finished 16th overall with a time of 21:23. The top three women finishers were freshman Ester Shader who finished for the Tigers at 27th overall with a time of 20:08, followed by Carissa Gomez with a time of 20:14 and Ariel Yepez who finished in 48th with a time of 21:02. The Tigers next meet will be on Sept. 23 at 10 a.m. in Central Park located in Huntington Beach.

&E A ‘Blond’ finally bursts on scene 8 September 22, 2016

“Power’s not given to you. You have to take it.”

- Beyoncé

Frank Ocean releases long-awaited album ‘Blond’ after years of hype, skeptisim and dismay MARKUS MATHEWS @marusaantoine

The wait is finally over! As the summer came to a close, loyal fans of R&B/Hip-Hop singer Frank Ocean rejoiced as the long awaited sophomore album became available to purchase exclusively via iTunes and the Apple Music streaming service. However, the road leading to the release of the album entitled “Blond” was filled with much skepticism from fans as rumors and false announcements completely took over both blogs and social media. Four years after his critically acclaimed debut album entitled “Channel O range,” F rank Ocean released “Blond” a few days before the start of the fall semester. In 2012, Ocean was greatly praised for the variety and authenticity found in “Channel Orange.” After being nominated for and winning multiple awards including a Grammy in 2013 for Best Urban Contemporary Album, Ocean found himself a very diverse following that supported him as well as his craft. “I loved his music the minute I heard it. When ‘Channel Orange’ was released, I immediately fell in love with it,” said Riverside City College student Rebecca Chaoui. “Frank’s songs never disappoint and they sound so unique compared to other popular songs of today. His voice is also very soothing and he raps (and) sings with a grace.” During an interview on BBC Radio 1 in early 2013, Ocean revealed that he was in the studio working on his next album. The announcement was met with a great deal of excitement

ILLUSTRATION | ROBBIE SHORTS

throughout various blogs and social media but the hype soon died down as no further announcements were made that year. Countless fans found themselves relying on social media sites like Twitter and Tumblr to find out any news on his second album. Due to the reliance on unverified information, many rumors began to circulate as fact. The anticipation gained some major traction during April 2015 when Ocean officially announced on his website that the album was to be released in July of that year. July came and went without an album and no explanation was given for the unannounced delay. “I felt disappointed the first

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION | MARKUS MATHEWS

couple of times I heard it was supposed to be released, but became immune to the rumors later on and just hoped for the best in him releasing the album soon,” Chaoui said. “To numerous fans it seemed like the second album would never come to into existence. It was pretty frustrating honestly, it was a very long hiatus between his last album.” said RCC student Jasmine Van Eman. “At one point I was Googling his name everyday to look up any updates on the album. Then (I) just stopped believing any rumors period until the album actually dropped.” Some took to their social media accounts to express their disappointment with Ocean and to ask the question, “Where’s the album, Frank?” After poking fun of himself by posting a picture of a due date card that one would find at the front of a library book with various dates crossed out, Ocean finally answered back and released his new album August 20 via Apple Music and iTunes. “Blond” completely introduced fans of Ocean to

a new sound that differs from “Channel Orange.” The album features some enormously talented people who contributed in many different ways including Beyonce, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar and Odd Future member Tyler, The Creator. A majority of critics are captivated by his latest release citing the growth between “Channel Orange” and “Blond” as major contributing factor. While all the songs on “Blond” could stand on their own for various reasons, a few RCC students have stated that their favorites include “Ivy,” “Nights,” “White Ferrari” and “Nikes.” “My favorite song on ‘Blonde’ is ‘Ivy’ because it has a great beat to it and it basically describes how life seems to be going so perfectly and you feel like you’re in paradise but then things can change so fast without any warning,” stated RCC student Marena Matta. “I can definitely relate to this song so that’s why it’s my favorite.” Critics and fans, the multiple delays leading up to this release didn’t stop them from listening to or buying the album.

“I feel like ‘Channel Orange’ will always be a classic, mainly because I’ve almost memorized every single song, but I think the heart and soul that Frank Ocean put into his new album will ultimately lead it to have the same effects on his fans as ‘Channel Orange’ did,” said Matta. Many Ocean fans agree with Matta as “Channel Orange” is an album that many have had on repeat since its 2012 release. Personally I feel like “Blond” is one of those albums that the more you listen to it the more enjoyable the songs becomes. I’ve became accustomed to his “Channel Orange” and “nostalgia, Ultra” sound that my first listen of his latest work was off-putting. However, upon listening to the album multiple times I found myself truly taking note of how Ocean has progressed both musically and lyrically. You can tell that he was in a different mindset while creating “Blond.” Some fans were nervous that his sophomore album would not be able to top such a great debut. However being that “Blond” hasn’t left the top 10 on the Billboard album charts since its release, it’s clear that the album is on the right track to becoming another classic. The best part about Ocean’s “Channel Orange” and “Blond” is that they both tell a story that is unique to him. While “Channel Orange” will most likely always be my personal favorite of his, “Blond” is a definitely an excellent addition to the story of Frank Ocean.

‘Blond’ track list 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17.

Nikes Ivy Pink + White Be Yourself Solo Skyline To Self Control Good Guy Nights Solo (Reprise) Pretty Sweet Facebook Story Close to You White Ferrari Seigfried God Speed Futura Free

Fan favorites • • • •

Nikes Ivy Nights White Ferrari

A&E

September 22, 2016

Movies provide cultural impact GIANCARLO DOMICOLO

@RCCviewpoints

Every culture has its own unique treasure. France has the Eiffel Tower, the United States has hamburgers and Germany has beer, however there is one shared treasure among all cultures, cinema. Within each culture there are iconic films. Italy has “Cinema Paradiso,” China has “Hero” and America has “The Godfather.” These films helped shape cultures as we know them today. The creation of film in general has had an enormous impact on society. Going to the theater has become an everyday activity. Whether someone is a fan of an upcoming movie, hanging out with a group of friends or even just bored, the theater is always going to be there for them. With the invention of film and the rise of movies, date nights have changed forever. As a society when many people think of date night activities, one of the most popular options is definitely attending a movie showing. Films not only influence culture in vague and broad ways, specific films become classics and live on forever by getting referenced in pop-culture or in an everyday conversation. A brilliant example of this is Martin Scorsese’s 1976 classic “Taxi Driver.” This year the film celebrated its 40th anniversary. 40 years after its initial release, the movie is still culturally relevant and worth a watch by everyone. If you have ever heard the line, “You talkin’ to me?” quoted, you’ve been exposed to the film’s impact on our culture. Even if you’ve seen the film “Neighbors,” which is a completely different type of film, you’ve been exposed to Robert De Niro’s “Taxi Driver”

GIANCARLO DOMICOLO | PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

character when Zac Efron’s character dressed as him. Even famed director Quentin Tarantino has said, “One of the things about “Taxi Driver” is that it is just so magnificent.” Films like “Taxi Driver” impact our daily lives constantly without many of us even knowing it. With quotes, characters or even simply ideas, many of these being featured in other shows or films that we regularly watch. Besides being highly quotable and entertaining, the film tackled more serious themes such as insanity and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in Vietnam vets as well, which was and still remains a huge issue in our culture. Scorsese isn’t the only director to have used film as a means to bring our country’s social issues to light. Roberto Benigni’s “La vita é bella” translated as “Life Is Beautiful” or Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List,” which both examine life in Nazi concentration camps during

World War II are excellent examples of this. Films like these are not only culturally significant but also universally significant as the whole world experienced the tragedy of the Nazis’ reign over most of Europe. We also have films that have impacted subsequent films in a way that changed how we view and enjoy them, such as “Citizen Kane,” “The Godfather” and “Mean Streets.”

Orson Welles’ “Citizen Kane” not only changed the way the film industry created movies, but also how we as a society consume them, giving us the never-before-seen deep focus, long takes and non-linear storytelling. If it wasn’t for Welles’ masterpiece we may have never gotten films like “Pulp Fiction,” among many others. Overlooked movies like “Mean Streets,” have changed

motion picture music forever. For our society, hearing a popular song like “Walking on Sunshine” in a film is normal, but before Scorsese and his collaborators made “Mean Streets,” it wasn’t a regular occurrence. This film was one of the first to implement the use of popular music, which would change the way we watch film and TV forever. Before this and other films that pioneered this movement films featured an original score, one very famous score being Ennio Morricone’s “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Theme.” Films like these, bring the world together in a way that no other medium can do. They can bring people together to laugh and have fun, to mourn a sad event and most importantly, shine light onto important social issues. Film is such a culturally and universally significant medium. When watching film, we connect with millions of others who view and enjoy film. When we go to a theater to watch a movie, we sit within a community of others who love film. We hold festivals and panel discussions to praise or even berate aspects of movies no matter how minute. Movies are not only culturally significant, they are a culture all on there own.

Classic Movie Quote Easter Eggs •

Soldier: 76's line in the video game “Overwatch,” “I love the smell of pulse munitions in the morning” is a reference to Lieutenant Colonel Bill Kilgore's famous line from Apocalypse Now, "I love the smell of napalm in the morning."

•

Season 3 Episode 58 of “The Simpsons” opens with a parody of “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and closes with a parody of “Casablanca.”

•

In the end-credit scene for the 2016 reboot of “Ghostbusters” the character Patty asks the others who Zuul is. The reboot also gives several nods to the original including cameos from the original members.

•

In “The Princess and the Frog” the character Louis pulls on swamp grass imitating Madam Mim from the Disney classic, “The Sword in the Stone.”

Entertainment Calendar

SEPT 22

SEPT 23

SEPT 24

Riverside Mariachi Festival Fairmont Park 9:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. $20 Adults / $5 for Children 6-12

SEPT 25

SEPT 26

“Divergent: Allegiant Part 1” Eastside Library 3:30 -5:30 p.m.

SoCal Etsy Guild Market Galleria at Tyler 10 - 7 p.m.

SEPT 27

SEPT 28

SEPT 29

SEPT 30

OCT 1

DVD Releases: “Central Intelligence” “Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates” “The Shallows”

Harmony Project Presents: Pianist Alpin Hong Historic Home of Drs. Baum 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Book Discussion: “Always Running - La Vida Loca: Gang Days in LA” Norco College Library 12:50 - 1:50 pm

Food Truck Festival Riverside Municipal Auditorium 5 - 7 p.m.

Movie Premiere: “Queen of Katwe”

Mac Miller, Pusha T and A-Trak Shrine Auditorium 7:45 p.m.

Ariana Grande Grammy Musuem at L.A Live Doors: 7:30 p.m. Show: 8:00 p.m.

V iews How to avoid parking stress 10

September 22, 2016

Tell

us what you think, in a letter to the editor, in an email, or use #RCCnow.

The problems RCC students face everyday and how to better prepare and avoid being late

JUSTICE SANDOVAL @RCCviewpoints

Parking lots, a place that not only holds your car but unleashes your inner monster when it’s packed. Now, who has the most difficult parking system you ask? Look no further than your very own RCC Riverside campus. Time after time students struggle with finding parking. Not on ly d o e s t h i s b r i ng frustration, but it tends to make students late to their first class and sometimes cause students to park in a place where your car be towed away! “I looked for parking for about 45 minutes and when I knew I was going to be late I parked at the apartment parking lot and soon got a call that my car was towed,” Alejandra Lopez explains on how her day went from bad to worse, “I missed all my afternoon classes just to get my car out.” missing classes to retrieve your car from the repo center? Welcome to college life. Not all students have trouble finding parking, there are people who prepare, park, and prosper. Emerson Gutierrez flaunts his luck by telling how he gets

CHRISTOPHER EDSON | VIEWPOINTS

Riverside City College students constantly struggle to make it to class on time due to limited space in the parking structure said perfect parking spots, “ I get early classes because not only do I love to be up early but there is so much parking when you’re here at 7 a.m.” There you have it Ladies and Gentlemen the trick to starting your day off right. “Does the parking system need to be improved here at RCC?,” Student Edgar Leyva says “ No, if you come here late of

course you won’t find parking. I come early so I don’t really mind.” Maybe there is hope for students and it starts with being early. What about the people that can’t get to school early or really don’t want to? “Too many people are late to class and I see it a lot in my mor ning classes,” says Jasmine Martinez when asked if she would rather have a new admissions building or parking

system. There are parking systems all over that are terrible and as much as you want to pull your hair out you just have to keep looking. If you want a stress-free day here are some tips. First, get to school about an hour early, you can get some breakfast at the cafeteria, finish any last minute homework, or just listen to music in a peaceful area. Second, you can carpool with

a friend. Not only does that make your ride fun but it saves you and your friend from going through a car lot break down alone. Lastly, you can take the bus for free with your RCC student ID. Don’t you just love public transportation? There are many ways to beating the evil parking system you just have to find whichever works for you. Good luck to all first-year students and students that are almost out.

Hillary Clinton’s email scandal resurfaces

The talking point that has even the supporters of the Clinton campaign suspicious

IRAN TAPIA

@RCCviewpoints

With the upcoming 2016 election we have seen and heard many unimaginable things from our presidential candidates, both good and bad. Making reappearance, among these was the Hillary Clinton email scandal. When this controversy first came out to the public I did not give it too much thought (I am not too big on politics, though I feel like I should be.),

but once I did I realized how crucial the issue is. For deeper insight, Clinton used a private email for the use of official government communications, later deleting thousands of these emails that were marked as secret to the government. She denied about the emails being classified as government top secret and later lied when asked if she has always been truthful, the emails were confirmed classified by the government. What she did was break federal records laws, but still she refused to admit that what she did was not permitted. The FBI are yet to figure out if the case was a criminal act or not, but it certainly was not permitted. What I ask myself is what was so delicate, that she went to the extent of breaking records laws, to hide from the rest of the government? I highly doubt that the issue was a personal one. Her

excuse for having this private email server was because it was more "convenient." "I thought it would be easier to carry just one device for my work and for my personal emails", she said. My initial thought is "Another lying candidate?" This issue not only made Clinton untrustworthy and hur t her reputation but made it harder for us voters to make a confident vote come November. Even members of her own Clinton campaign were skeptical about the situation making them doubtful of their commitment to her. How does one positively vote with doubts of their presidential selection in the back of their mind? This 2016 election seems to be a very tough one and the scandal did not help it. Truthfully I was never too fond of Clinton, to begin with and when this issue began to re-

circle, it just reminded me that I was not going to have a fun time voting this year as my first time being a legally registered voter. Her dishonesty brought me to the conclusion that she is not very serious about following the rules of the law which will continue to corrupt the

government if she is elected. She broke federal rules and the government acted quite lightly towards it. Denying and lying about classified emails should be punished and in my opinion, disqualify her from the race, but then that leaves us with another immoral candidate. Sadly, our country can only close our eyes and hope for the best, because the

w a y these candidates are set up it can only go bad or bad. IILLUSTRATION BY JONATHAN RAMIREZ

Views

September 22, 2016

RCC violates state code

Campuses elevators violate California Code of Regulations and ADA provisions

Editorial

Elevators are beneficial to all students at Riverside City College. They provide accessibility for the disabled and others who need assistance to get to and from class with relative ease which would otherwise be impossible. We feel as though the importance of these elevators have been put off no matter how many issues we have printed that have addressed this issue and we are tired of it. When will the elevators finally be taken care of and kept maintained? Furthermore, there have been many cases of students getting stuck in these elevators. “I was coming from class going to my car and there was a group of us, we got stuck on the second floor,” RCC student Nick Zavala said. “The door shut but it wouldn’t move, it went down like halfway then it came back up and when the door opened we ran out.” Interim Director of Facilities Gary Cinnamon, addressed the maintenance of elevators on campus in an interview with Viewpoints. “Maintenance is ongoing, they come out and do preventive maintenance,” Cinnamon said. “We require preventive maintenance on a monthly basis. If you’re talking about elevators breaking down, in other words stopping service, that happens. Elevators are running thousands and in a year, hundreds of thousands of cycles. So, the statistics on it are actually pretty good. Will all elevators operate all the time? No. That’s just a fact. Hopefully, our goal is to increase the efficiency of the elevators.” Cinnamon explained the process of updating the elevator permits and what’s stopping the maintenance of the elevators. “All elevators are (permitted) by the state of California. That’s all elevators and the state manages that process. Elevators, I think, are in an annual basis, but the state manages that process. We don’t do anything from that standpoint. So when you go into an elevator and look at a permit, it will tell when it was inspected and when the permit expires, so some elevators show that permits expired. That doesn’t mean the elevators are out of service or anything, it just means the state hasn’t updated them.” However, many elevators on campus do not have an updated permit and that is a direct contradiction to the California Code of Regulations Title 8 §3001 c, which states that, “No elevator

ILLUSTRATION ROBBIE SHORTS | VIEWPOINTS

shall be operated without a valid, current permit issued by the Division. The permit, or a copy thereof, to operate a passenger elevator, freight elevator or incline elevator shall be posted conspicuously and securely in the elevator car.” Emphasizing the word “current”, the violation being committed by this school is highly unacceptable as it continues to violate the Americans with Disability laws enacted to help protect the disabled.

The sheer idea of our school violating a law and ADA provisions that affects the safety and accessibility of our students is unacceptable, especially after an ADA lawsuit was filed January 10, 2013 by a former employee of the college, Salvador Gomez Jr. We believe that these ongoing problems must be fixed one way or another and bring attention to the violations this campus is committing because they affect everyone on this campus.

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

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STAFF

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Laura M. Tapia 951-222-8495 viewpoints@rcc.edu MANAGING EDITOR Stacy Soriano viewpoints.managing@gmail.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Crystal Olmedo viewpoints.advertising@gmail.com JOURNALISM SPECIALIST Matt Schoenmann matthew.schoenmann@rcc.edu FACULTY ADVISERS Allan Lovelace Matt Schoenmann

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EDITOR Letters to the editor should be kept to 250 words or less and contain contact information. Deliver letters to the Viewpoints office in the room behind the Assessment Building. An electronic copy is required. 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 government, faculty, administration nor the Board of Trustees.

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September 22, 2016

Views

Capital punishment is unjust

Abolish the death penalty by voting yes on prop. 62 and voting no on speeding up process

JONATHAN VAN NEIL @RCCviewpoints

On Nov. 8, California voters will be asked to choose between remaining in the dark ages of judicial corporal punishment, or progressing forward towards a more ethical and fiscally responsible methodology. Proposition 62 advocates the abolishment of capital punishment altogether, making life imprisonment without parole the state’s maximum penalty. In contrast, Prop. 66 argues that the death penalty is an acceptable sentencing, and rather than banning it, seeks to reform it through “speeding up” the process. “Proposition 66 is the answer Californians are looking for,” said Riverside County District Attorney and Prop. 66 Regional Chairman Michael Hestrin in an op-ed published by the Times of San Diego. “The goals behind Prop. 66 are laudable and more

in line with the thinking of the California electorate that voted to re-institute the death penalty to begin with—mend it, don’t end it.” While D.A. Hestrin proclaims that Californians are clamoring for the execution of those convicted of the most heinous crimes, such an assertion gravely mischaracterizes the state electorate. According to a Field Poll conducted this Jan., California c a p i t a l punishment is divided nearevenly among voters, with 48% being in favor of the death penalty and 47% in favor of replacing it with life imprisonment without parole. Advocates for abolishing the death penalty have increased by 7% since 2014. “It’s good to see that there is continued strong movement away from support for the death penalty in California,” said Executive Director of Death Penalty Focus Matt Cherry in an interview with Mercury News. “We are confident that when Californians learn the

facts they will vote to end this failed experiment with the death penalty and replace it with justice that works.”

“There’s virtually no parking, you have to wait for people to back out. ... I don’t like to be late and we already had a Student Services building, why do we need another one? It’s virtually pointless.”

“Personally, I think the way it was before with the building (Student Services) over where it was originally was fine. ... When I park here I sometimes spend 30-40 minutes looking for a spot and sometimes I’m late for class. … Parking is a little more of an issue.”

“Personally, I think it would be better if we had a combination of both. Like maybe downsize the building in order to make more room for a parking structure.”

“Parking spots. We have a lot of st udents here and generally half of them have to park on the other side of school and walk across to get parking and I don’t think it’s fair.”

“Student Services. I don’t usually have a problem with parking and after a couple weeks into the semester it tends to die down and Student Services is always handy, it would be good to get ahold of somebody if need be.” - Jason Scott

Among those facts is California’s reinstatement of the death penalty has cost taxpayers over $4 billion since 1978. According to a 2011 Assessment of Costs study, if the sentences of those remaining on death row were commuted to life

without parole, it would result in an immediate savings of $170 million per year, with a savings of $5 billion over the next 20 years. In his aforementioned oped, D.A. Hestrin argues against the annual savings projected by the passage of Prop. 62: “One would still have to concede that the savings is a paltry drop in the bucket compared to the vast size of California’s budget and hardly the worst use of taxpayer funds.” Californians should be relieved that D.A. Hestrin does not run the state economy, as his views are both alarming and dismissive of the benefits such funding can have on our state’s communities. Imagine if the millions of dollars in annual savings from abolishing the death penalty was promised to California schools. Such “paltry drops” can yield positive impact on our state’s youth, which is

never a bad investment. Wouldn’t investing in the education of our state’s youth be the more responsible, humane thing to do? Surely access to better schools would reduce the amount of offenders, as a lack of quality education is intrinsically linked to poverty and, subsequently, crime. Advocates for capital punishment may argue that while ending California’s practice of the death penalty would save the state several millions of dollars, the victims and families left behind, as D.A. Hestrin states, “don’t deserve anything less than justice.” I pose readers a question: Is the killing of a killer not hypocritical in nature? If killing is worthy of a death sentence, who is to execute the executioners? Let us be clear: Vengeance is not justice. The death penalty is an archaic, inhumane form of punishment, and it is time to join the civilized world by abolishing it from our judicial system. A vote for Prop. 62 and a vote against Prop. 66 is a step in that direction.

Campus Conversations

Campus Question: Would you rather have the new Student Services building or more parking space? Campus Views is an open forum for Riverside City College students to voice their own opinions, views and ideas. Interviews and photos by Jonathan Ramirez

- Adriana Haas

- Josue Garcia

“Parking spots I guess... people have to leave early and it’s a hassle to find spots around here. Even though they have this garage, it’s not enough spots for all the students that drive here.”

- Kelli Guaderrama

- Christian Nino

“Building another building that takes up more parking … makes very little sense. ... I would prefer someplace where I can park and get to school on time.”

- Lindell Hall

- Yorely Barajas

“More parking space. From my personal experience, more parking space would be more beneficial and teachers tend to drop students who are late.”

- Robert Baeza