Vol. 102 Issue 3 by RCC Viewpoints

RIVERSIDE CITY COLLEGE VIEWPOINTSONLINE.ORG

NOVEMBER 16, 2023

VOL. 102, NO. 3

ADRIAN TAYLOR | VIEWPOINTS

The Riverside City College Football team celebrate after wide receiver Jacqueze Modica scores a touchdown against the Fullerton Hornets at Wheelock Stadium on Nov. 11.

Hopes for perfect season lost at home AYDEN VASQUEZ STAFF REPORTER

In a high-stakes showdown, two undefeated teams battled fiercely for ideal playoff positioning. The Riverside City College Tigers suffered a heart-wrenching fourth-quarter loss at Wheelock Stadium to the Fullerton College Hornets in the final game of the

regular season. The opening quarter kicked off with a swift start for RCC with a strong eight-yard gain down the field’s center by sophomore running back Byrce Strong. After a series of passes by the Tigers’ quarterback Jordan Barton, and an additional rushing attempt by Strong, RCC concluded its initial drive after four plays,

NEWS

Riverside City College’s Latinx community talks growing needs

managing only nine yards of offense by Fullerton’s defense. During the Hornets first offensive possession, quarterback Brandon Nunez threw an interception to RCC’s defensive back Edward Gilds, halting Fullerton’s drive. After a quarter of limited offensive production from both teams, the Tigers scored first with

a 29-yard field goal by kicker Gabe Panikowski, ending the first quarter at 3-0. “Fullerton is a very defensive team and we just couldn’t get over that hump,” RCC head coach Tom Craft said. Going into the second quarter, RCC marched down the field for a total of 27 yards before a hard tackle on Jordan Barton

LIFE

Local record store provides space to shop, talk, discover music

from Hornets’ defensive back Jordan Little forced a fumble which Fullerton recovered. “Today wasn’t one of my best individual performances,” Barton said. “It’s not just a reality check for me but for the team as a whole. Now all we can do is

See GAME on page 12

INDEX NEWS

LIFE

OPINIONS

EDITORIAL

SPORTS

2 November 16, 2023

NEWS

Editors: Annabel Silva news.viewpointsonline@gmail.com

Expanding program outgrows current facility Latinx engagement center seeks larger space, more resources IZAIAH CERRATOS STAFF REPORTER

Members of the La Casa and Puente program at Riverside City College voiced the need for more counselors, tutoring and a larger engagement center. A presentation discussing the growing needs of the program was made to the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees o n N o v. 7 . “ We ’ v e c l e a r l y outgrown our space to run day to day operations,” RCC sociology instructor Eduardo Perez said. The program was awarded a $75,000 grant by UC Berkeley. La Casa has grown exceptionally since its launch, seeing 1,564 students visit the engagement center in the fall. RCC holds a 65% Latinx student attendance rate. Two meetings have been held with La Casa students, classified professionals, faculty and administrators within the past year to discuss the growing needs of the program. The first meeting was in May and the second one was held last month. The need for additional space was mentioned by several speakers throughout the presentation. “There is a facilities master plan with extra space for La Casa included in that plan,” Perez said. However, the current space for La Casa does not satisfy every day needs for the program. “Students sometimes will have to leave the La Casa center due to lack of seating or a quiet space to work,” Michael Ruby,

ADRIAN TAYLOR | VIEWPOINTS

Front desk welcome station of the La Casa Student Engagement Center in the Bradshaw Building at Riverside City College on Nov 15.

an RCC student and La Casa peer mentor said. Counselors and others who use the space often struggle to find a quiet place to join Zoom calls. Perez acknowledged the troublesome working conditions with the uptick of student traffic. “It’s a bit of a challenge right now to work, we’re overcrowded,” said Perez. They also said there is a need for a full-time counselor who is bilingual and familiar with Latin culture. “We have a lot of Latinx

students whose first language is a Spanish language,” Ruby said. “A full-time counselor who can break those language barriers will benefit the students of La Casa.” A part-time counselor is currently working in the program. Members said tutoring has become another lacking resource to serve the increasing number of students in the program. La Casa reported double the number of students attending the program since 2022. The program aims to create a sense of community for the Latinx

community on campus. Improved marketing plans have been implemented for the program to receive better exposure to the public and student body. La Casa and Puente students provided feedback that was shared by the members at the Board meeting. Students requested space for a mural at RCC to represent the program. They also asked that the program continued the efforts to hold events throughout the year which include workshops, hosting guest speakers and networking opportunities.

“This one-time augmentation of funds will be used for a students’ NorCal trip,” Wendy Silva said. The students on the field trip will have the opportunity to participate in many cultural events. “RCC will identify a fulltime counselor to help teach the fall courses beginning in 2024 for the La Casa program,” said Silva. Puente currently has plans to hire three full-time working tutors.

November 16, 2023

PHOTOS BY ADRIAN TAYLOR | VIEWPOINTS

History instructor Daniel Borses, left, and Political Science instructor Dariush Haghighat answer audience questions at the Gaza Round Table Discussion in Quad, Room 144, at Riverside City College on Nov. 2.

Political Science Association hosts Gaza talk DEE DAVIS STAFF REPORTER

The Riverside City College Political Science Student Association hosted the Gaza Roundtable Discussion on Nov. 2 inside the A.G. Paul Quadrangle Auditorium to discuss the conflict happening between Israel and Gaza. Panelists for the discussion included history instructor Daniel Borses and political science instructor Dariush Haghighat. Political science instructor Mark Sellick moderated the discussion. “Palestinian and Israelis are suffering,” Borses said. There is major conflict between the two states and he highlighted how Israelis came to be and how Palestinians have been living for years. “Homeland doesn’t say Jewish state but it was a place for them to go. It wasn’t a promise,” Borses said. Arthur Balfour, the British Foreign Secretary, was crucial in establishing a Jewish “Homeland” in Palestine. He also ensured the promised area. “(It showed) empathy for the 6 million to the 12 million Jews who were slaughtered in the Holocaust. There was a lot of attention on the United Nations for them to come up with a resolution but a twostate solution was suggested, while Israel as a state was made ‘out of war,’,” Borses said. “It doesn’t justify the violence because it is

horrible.” Borses acknowledged how Hamas is an organization that was elected in 2006 with the main goal to completely eliminate Israel and the Jews, with children being a significant portion of the population. “Do your own research, I’m encouraging you not to believe but to think. It is hard to get the words exactly right, particularly in this situation where emotions are running so high while witnessing such unconscionable human tragedies unfold right in front of our eyes,” Haghighat said. Additionally, Haghighat talked about numerous events where Muslim and Jewish people are being attacked in their homes and workplaces. “Jewish students who attend Cornell University are being threatened in the street, Russian antisemitic are at the airport in Russia looking for Jewish passengers on a flight from Israel. A Muslim seven-year-old boy was stabbed to death walking back home from school,” Haghighat said. “It isn’t an excuse to take out your anger at Jewish and Muslim people,” Haghighat said. There are many examples of the actions of Israel that violate the international laws that go against humanity. “This is a loss for you, this is a loss for me and this is the loss of freedom of expression for all of us, for all of us,” Haghighat said.

Dariush Haghighat, instructor of political science at Riverside City College answers a question at the Gaza Round Table Discussion in Quad, Room 144, at Riverside City College on Nov. 2.

The Business Services Vice President of Moreno Valley College Majd Askar shared her experience in Palestine and the conditions while visiting. Although Askar came back to the U.S. before the attack on Oct. 7, the water had been cut off by the Israeli government in her home. This is how Askar told her story about her experience on how she maneuvers after losing her husband who wanted to be buried in Palestine for her to witness. “I had to go through Jordan as I hoped that I could see him before he gets buried,” Askar said. Daniel Borses, history instructor at Riverside City College, answers a Askar showed gratitude to question at the Gaza Round Table Discussion in Quad, Room 144, at Borses and Haghighat as the Riverside City College on Nov. 2. discussion came to an end and

Riverside City College receives $306K suicide prevention grant VICTOR LEDBETTER JR. STAFF REPORTER

Riverside City College announced a receipt of a threeyear, $306,000 grant from the Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Act in an effort to prevent suicide among students and aid in mental health. Renee Marin-Thornton, director for Student Health and

Psychological Services, detailed the process of the grant. This is the second grant the college has received. The first was presented in 2019. “(RCC) went through negotiations with mental health providers around the area,” Marin-Thornton said. The process started in 2017 and succeeded with a three-year contract. Unlike the grant in 2019, this

year’s grant offers more options to aid with mental health. “(The grant offers) individual or group programs to help with support, mental health workshops on campus or on the school website, and 13 different mental health providers in Riverside to help with mental crises,”MartinThorton said. RCC will provide specialized training for designated personnel

to assist students in crisis, as well as host initiatives to raise awareness and educate the community about mental health. The school will also develop a structured crisis management plan to facilitate referrals to oncampus programs and community resources. Martin-Thorton said the funds will also be used toward “providing more resources

for the Basic Needs Resource Center.” The BNRC is located by the Financial Aid office in the Kane building, providing students with food and housing security, hygiene, meal vouchers and mental health services. “Without the grant, we would have limited funds, limited staffing, and limited assistance and support,” Martin said.

LIFE Farm 123 kicks off holiday spirit with style 5 November 16, 2023 CAITLYN NELSON STAFF REPORTER

Christmas celebrations have started in the Inland Empire. 123 Farm kicked off the holiday spirit with its Christmas Nights Festival on the weekend of Nov. 9 through Nov. 13. One million lights wrap the trees, buildings and walkways creating a magical experience. Large nutcrackers stand in the entryways and front registers of the indoor food court. Lights hang from the ceiling and wrap several christmas trees in each of the rooms. “They put in so much effort to make sure it’s perfect for everyone that comes in,” said Roberta Drummond, a food service worker. “It’s a different energy from the other festivals at 123 Farm, it took two weeks to set up and they make sure to make it special for the kids and everyone else.” This event is interactive, containing a scavenger hunt throughout its venue, a maze decorated in lights and a tractor pulled wagon tour of the property. The farm brought in several local businesses to participate in the festival, all located in the 12 Days of Christmas Shops. These shops are primarily open on the weekends from 5 to 10 p.m. At this location attendees can find several different handcrafted items such as sweatshirts, crystals, tea and local grown snacks.

Editor: Marc A. Salazar life.viewpointsonline@gmail.com

Earth_Bestowed has been a part of several 123 Farm Festivals since 2021. This business sells crystals, sage and several types of handcrafted jewelry and decor. Erin Johnson, owner of Earth_ Bestowed is locally based in the Inland Empire and most of her sales are at pop ups. “This is a great place to have a shop at and 123 Farm is very easy to work with,” Johnson said. “It is an equally beneficial relationship for my company and 123 Farm.” Johnson said she enjoys working with 123 Farm as it allows her to share her craft. “Working here is very calming and helps me destress,” she said. “I get to experience nature and be around rocks.” Guests at the event indulge themselves in hot cocoa and food as they witness the glowing lights. “It’s cold outside but it makes you feel warm inside,” said first time attendee, Pattie S. “The overall mood and seeing families together, along with being with my best friend creates this warm feeling.” Jude B. has attended this holiday event before and said it’s a special place that brings people together. “I would return again, it’s consistent magic and it’s never not been fun to be here,” Jude B. said. “There is something welcoming about the environment and everyone is here to have a fun time and meet others.” 123 Farm’s Christmas Nights

PHOTOS BY KEVIN HORVATH | VIEWPOINTS

People walking along path decorated with lights, during the opening weekend of Christmas Nights at 123 Farm on Nov. 11.

is located at Highland Springs Ranch & Inn in Cherry Valley, CA; 40 minutes away from Riverside, CA. The festival takes place from now until Jan. 7 every Wednesday through Monday from 5 to 10 p.m. The exception to these days is Tuesday Dec. 19 and Jan. 2. Tickets average around $20 for adults and $12 for children. Event parking can be purchased online for anywhere between $10 to $20, though do not worry if parking is sold out, you are able to park outside of the event for An attendee on the mini bridge crossing a pond, decorated with lights at 123 Farm, during opening weekend of Christmas Nights on Nov. 11. free and walk in.

Riverside City College welcomes new president STEPHEN DAY PHOTO EDITOR

Riverside City College’s search for a permanent president has ended with the welcoming of Claire Oliveros. Oliveros brings long-needed stability to the office and allows the school to begin moving forward once again. The new president brings 29 years of experience in higher education having worked as an educator and an administrator in places such as California, Oregon and Virginia. “The bulk of my career and much of my biography is from Portland, Oregon. I grew up there,” Oliveros said. “I worked for 19 years in Oregon’s public university and community college system.” Oliveros struggled on her educational journey being the first woman in three generations of her family to graduate high school. She later found it difficult adjusting to the culture of a small, rural liberal arts college. She said she is thankful for the multicultural student counselors and the student support services which she credits for helping her achieve success. “At the age of 18 I became a participant of a program that I

STEPHEN DAY | VIEWPOINTS

Dr. Claire Oliveros, new president of Riverside City College, stands in her office adorned with Tiger related decorations on Oct 26 in the Dr. Charles A. Kane Student Services and Administration Building.

eventually got to direct and lead in my adult career-life,” Oliveros said. “It was those entities that really were the lifeline to be successful in college and graduate.” With this background, Oliveros is more aware of the struggles that students of color face in their own educational journeys. “There’s still more work to be done in diversifying our student body, our faculty and administration and classified professional ranks,” Oliveros

said. “With a diverse student body comes diverse aspects of responding to the economic and environmental needs that our students are experiencing.” The president of the college acts as a chief executive officer for the organization, facilitating the function of the college including academic affairs, student services and facilities. They also partake in business planning and resource development, all in the service of the Board of Trustees.

In her open forum presentation last spring, Oliveros stated that her goal was to learn as much about the campus and its community as she could when she came into the role of president. In these last few months, she has been doing just that. “I’m learning about how engaged our faculty and classified professionals and administrators and students are,” Oliveros said. Oliveros was on hand for RCC’s Welcome Day which signaled

the beginning of the fall semester and brought throngs of first-time students to the campus. “It took my breath away to see and feel and experience the 3,000 plus students returning to in-person and online education surrounded by their family members who joined them on Welcome Day,” the president said. Since the beginning of the school year she has been meeting with the various college departments and learning about their needs and the direction that each of them is looking to move toward in the future. “What people are sharing with me as I’m listening, learning and participating is a desire for some stability and consistency and support for leading in a similar direction,” Oliveros said. Oliveros hopes to be a compass that helps lead the ship that is RCC in the direction that will best serve the needs of both the student body and the community. “I want to help. I want to be at the helm to help us go in that direction with the many helping hands that are also part of that compass,” Oliveros said. “I’m leading others to be the best version of themselves to help us get there and advocate, support and create opportunities and help identify resources to help make that happen.”

6 November 16, 2023

Record Room sprouts from Riverside roots ANGIE MEDINA MANAGING EDITOR

From the heavy sound of electric guitars to the smoothness of jazz, Penrose Record Room has it all. Located in the basement of the Life and Arts Center in downtown Riverside, this record store provides a well-rounded selection of music for everyone to enjoy. The shop which had its grand opening Oct. 28, is co-owned by Gabe Roth who is the Grammy award-winning producer known as Bosco Mann and Matt Beld, guitarist of Vicky and The Big Beat. The shop stems from a local record label, Penrose Records and offers a special selection of records from artists in the Penrose and Daptone family. You can also find a mix of Rock, Pop, Country, R&B, Jazz and Latin music. Penrose label bands performed throughout the opening weekend. Los Yesterdays, Vicky Tafoya and The Big Beat, The Escapers and The Altons came out to support and perform on the mini stage inside the record store. “I want to have a cool place in Riverside where people feel good about discovering music, holding music, listening to music, talking about music and

hanging out,” Roth said. Both Roth and Beld have been in the music scene for the majority of their life and they hope to share their love for it in the community. “We’re trying to recreate the feeling that we got when we were young,” Beld said. “We see that kind of life in young people and we want to facilitate that.” Roth, who owns the Penrose label, shares that he enjoys being on the other side of the music sales.

“It’s inspiring for me seeing people excited about the records they’re holding,” Roth said. “I see a number on a piece of paper saying ‘You sold this many records’ but it’s real different when you meet somebody and you can talk to them about the music. It makes a much closer connection. I dig it.”

Inspired by their Riverside roots, both owners intend to leave a lasting impression in the community. “Our hopes for the future is that we can help as many folks as we can and hopefully we’re here for a long long time,” Beld said. More to come on Peonrose Record Room in Spring 2024

ABOVE Customers browse the records for sale at the busy grand opening of Penr shop, located in downtown Riverside, was fully renovated from an office spa for the walls and record displays.

BELOW Crystal Velásquez browses the records for sale at the busy grand opening of

ABOVE At the busy grand opening of Penrose Record Room, customers browse the records for sale. The shop, located in downtown Riverside, opened on Oct. 28. BELOW Vicky Tafoya (right) graced customers with her soulful voice at the grand opening of Penrose Record Room on Oct. 28. Tafoya performs with Matt Beld, who co-owns the shop with Gabe Roth (not pictured).

“

It’s real different about the m - Gabe Roth

rose Record Room on Oct. 28. The ace and includes custom woodwork

f Penrose Record Room on Oct. 28.

Editor: Marc A. Salazar life.viewpointsonline@gmail.com

ABOVE Matt Beld (left) shakes hands with a a customerr at the grand opening of Penrose Record Room as Anthony Masino (center) looks on during a break from the line of customers on Oct. 28. Beld co-owns the Penrose Record Room with Gabe Roth (not pictured).

BELOW Gabe Roth (center) talks to a customer at the busy granding open of Penrose Record Room on Saturday, Oct. 28. Roth opened the shop in downtown Riverside with co-owner Matt Beld (not pictured).

t when you meet somebody and you can talk to them music. It makes a much closer connection. I dig it.

8 November 16, 2023

OPINIONS

Editor: Karly Ortiz

opinions.viewpointsonline@gmail.com

PETA’s push for veganism irresponsible VICTOR LEDBETTER JR. STAFF REPORTER

I have always appreciated the act of veganism from a distance. While I’ll admit that I have no plans of becoming a vegan anytime soon, I have always disliked the methods in which farming companies gather meat from animals by utilizing slaughterhouses to keep swaths of them in very tiny spaces in very poor conditions, keeping up with an astronomical demand for meat. Even though many people know how the meat industry works, they still won’t go vegan or even limit their meat intake. Mostly because vegans get a bad rep due to a loud minority of the vegan community on the internet, or the large amount of false medical facts caused by veganism. I blame the non-profit organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) not for “pushing” veganism, but for providing broken promises and pushing oddly bad campaigns, which have soured the act of becoming a vegan altogether. PETA has been known for taking in pets into their clinics to try and house them at a later date, as the organization touts that animals have the same rights as people. But the company has not been able to keep their word, euthanizing up to 45,000 dogs, cats and other critters according to PETAkillsanimals. com. The shelter took in a total of 2,886 animals last year, so a little simple math reveals a 74% death rate for animals entrusted to PETA’s care. Only about 3% of the animals surrendered to the organization were successfully adopted. The fact that an organization like PETA can preach the word of animal rights and then turn around and do this is very concerning, especially with the reputation that they try to uphold. Why can’t PETA give away the pets to other shelters, or hold events where people could get a dog, or cat

STEPHEN DAY | VIEWPOINTS

for free, or something along those lines? It seems a little odd that PETA would not think of solutions to try to find better situations for the animals rather than euthanizing them. The ability to try and build conversation to a movement via a public campaign is very important if done well, yet the campaigns that PETA has conducted have been very odd and proven to be controversial. There are two that I want to point out, a 2011 exhibit “Glass Walls” that was in Washington D.C.’s National Mail, and the 2014 “Got Autism” campaign. The former, as reported by Stephen C. Webster for “ R AW S TO RY ” , f e a t u r e d a collection of lynched African Amercans, child laborers and Cambodian genicide victims among many others images. These images were used to draw a wide range of human suffering to try and make a point about animal suffering. According to Webster, PETA cofounder Ingrid Newkirk claimed

that people who could not see the message were caught up in racism or their racial identity. “There’s no one thing,” she said. “It’s all about the fact that human beings have an infinite ability to be kind, but they also have an infinite capacity to compartmentalize others, to be dismissive of others, to be prejudiced toward others. It’s what human beings do. This exhibit says open your heart, open your mind, open your eyes, and look at the act and say, ‘Do I want to be part of this or not?’” While I recognize that animals can have emotion, and can go through pain and suffering, but I find it odd to compare animal suffering to human suffering as in genocide, lynching, and child labor among many other things. To me, the exhibit felt very pretentious, like they were trying to say, “Animals have had it way worse than humans”. Why draw comparisons when all there was to do was to highlight the dark nature

that animals in slaughterhouses go through? The “Got Autism” campaign tried to link milk and other dairy products to autism, but the studies were debunked by Jeffrey Kluger from “Time Magazine” as he thought the research PETA conducted was too biased. Kluger states that one study conducted in 2002 observed possible improvement in symptoms of autism when children were put in diets free of gluten, gliadin and casein, the proteins found in grains and dairy products, but Kluger slams the study for being dated, vague and biased. “ I t ’s v a g u e — w i t h t h e researchers broadly blaming the problem on ‘processes with opioid effect,’ whatever that means. It was also tiny—relying on a sample group of just 20 kids. Finally, the study was admittedly single-blind, which means that the experimenters knew which kids were getting the special diet and which weren’t.”

This campaign has to be the strangest of them all as there is no real proof that dairy products can cause autism, and as someone with an autistic little brother, I can tell you that is not how it works. In fact, there are many people that could tell you the exact same thing. Nobody can obtain autism like the common cold or flu, it happens through birth, as the baby is developing in the womb. It is until a little while after birth where the signs of autism start to show up. If autism could be caught like the cold, nobody would be drinking milk. It’s sad, because I would love for people to be informed about the damage we are doing to the environment as a result of the farming methods on animals. I want people to try to better themselves by trying to expand their diet to more vegan friendly options. But as long as PETA keeps shooting themselves in the foot, everybody loses.

Institutes of Health, there is a notable contraceptive method disparity with women having 12 options, whereas men are typically limited to just condoms and vasectomies. Birth control is unreasonably shouldered by the wrong gender if men can father up to multiple pregnancies in nine months while women can only have one. Scientific efforts are misdirected toward creating birth prevention for the wrong recipients, leaving women to face an unequal societal burden.

Even if birth control empowers our reproductive autonomy, its impact on our economic opportunities can’t be understated. Easy access to birth control enables us to plan pregnancies according to our preferences and reduces the likelihood of unplanned pregnancies that can disrupt educational or career pursuits. This shift ensures access to and control over contraception for both men and women without overwhelming us with numerous methods.

Contraception use is stigmatized. When stigmas persist, it suggests a sense of humiliation or secrecy surrounding women’s reproductive health, ultimately resulting in the shaming of women for making choices for their own bodies. We have the right to emancipate ourselves from societal barriers rooted in fear, judgment and imposed societal constructs. Also, reproductive healthcare should embrace an inclusive environment of decision-making between partners, irrespective of

their gender. With this transformation, we secure mutual respect in making choices concerning our reproductive health rights. They must recognize that contraception decisions should be gender-neutral and actively eliminate any existing gender bias in health care services. By collectively aligning with gender equality and individual autonomy, we precede a more inclusive and equitable society where women don’t have to shoulder unnecessary struggles.

Birth control, contraceptives are stigmatized Women should not carry the burden on their own JOANNAH CLEMENTE STAFF REPORTER

Unequal distribution of contraceptive responsibility unfairly burdens one gender. Birth control, historically, has been associated only with women and it’s long overdue for this deeply ingrained stereotype to change. We must break free from this antiquated perspective and acknowledge that family planning is a shared responsibility. According to the National

November 16, 2023

Editor: Karly Ortiz | opinions.viewpointsonline@gmail.com

Editorial

STAFF LIST EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jennipher Vasquez viewpointseic@gmail.com

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

MANAGING EDITOR Angie Medina viewpoints.managing@gmail.com NEWS EDITORS Annabel Silva news.viewpointsonline@gmail.com LIFE EDITOR Marc A. Salazar life.viewpointsonline@gmail.com ASSISTANT LIFE EDITOR Yoselin Miranda OPINIONS EDITOR Karly Ortiz opinions.viewpointsonline@gmail.com SPORTS EDITOR Dalila Romero sports.viewpointsonline@gmail.com ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR Jair Ramirez SPORTS DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Jesus Coronel STEPHEN DAY | VIEWPOINTS

We have a job to do, it’s not promoting you

Journalists are not your press agent. Outside of commentary, your average working journalist is there to seek truth and report it. With the rise of misinformation and lack of trust in mainstream media, the Viewpoints Editorial Board feels the need to clarify its mission. We are not here to serve as public relations for the college, community or any other entity. We are neither self-serving or imposing our bias through our content and we are here to inform rather than to steer our readers’ beliefs. The goal of objectivity does not make us robots. We all have our own perspectives and ideas. It is important to separate the field of public relations from journalism and clearly define what each practice entails, but also how PR can be harmful to journalism. PR, by definition, is “a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics,” according to the Public Relations Society of America.

While we strive to maintain beneficial relationships with our sources, we also hold them accountable. We are not interested in any publicity to make our program look good because we emphasize maintaining our credibility above all else. Image and reputation need to be a secondary concern, and producing quality, factual journalism must come first. The work of journalists can often be overshadowed by a number of factors, but we need to maintain the integrity of what it means to be a reporter. Relationship building, influencing and engaging with the public beyond what’s necessary to do our job does not allow for our readers to form their opinions on their own. We are not here to create a favorable or unfavorable image for anyone or anything we write about. One of our advisers has frequently repeated the phrase, “no rooting in the press box,” regardless of what the story is about. The phrase is not uttered without mention of our credibility in the same breath. Why is that? The answer goes beyond and is not limited to conflict of interest.

Much of our job is to be objective and remove all personal biases. We have had to make the unfortunate decision to pull stories from publishing due to the relationship between the reporter and the story or the sources. It isn’t easy to remove yourself from all situations, however, there is a time and a place for that —— for example, a public safety crisis, racism or abandoning your own principles. Journalists often work within the gray areas. Coverage of the Israel and Gaza war is a good example of many dealing in the black and white. We look for the nuance and have to navigate that. Larger news outlets play a massive role and have just as much of an influence on the public’s perception of news media as public relations. Well-established media must be more responsible. There are not many pats on the backs in this business. Awards and recognition are nice. There is a place for criticism, commentary and columns. But our main focus is to serve the public.

PHOTO EDITOR Stephen Day photography.viewpointsonline@gmail.com

ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR Adrian Taylor MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Jaylan Edwards multimedia.viewpointsonline@gmail.com

REPORTERS:

Ethan Aguilera Izaiah Cerratos Joannah Clemente Dee Davis Kevin James Horvath Victor Ledbetter Jr. Adam Morse Caitlyn Nelson Cesareo Arreola Saldana Aliah Tubbs Ayden Vasquez

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10 November 16, 2023

SPORTS

Editor: Dalila Romero sports.viewpointsonline@gmail.com

Tigers reign on sophomore night ALIAH TUBBS STAFF REPORTER

Following a two-game losing streak, the Riverside City College Tigers dominated sophomore night against Fullerton College and secured victory in all three sets. The Tigers are entering the end of its regular season with a conference record of 9-6, with high hopes of earning a spot in the playoffs. “The intensity was good,” Tigers head coach Clara Lowden said. “We knew we had to come in and take care of business.” In a fierce match, both teams showcased their power early. As they battled for points, the Tigers found themselves ahead, capitalizing on their momentum to secure a commanding lead with six consecutive points. The Tigers maintained their momentum, outplaying the Hornets who were struggling to catch up. RCC showed no signs of slowing down as they secured the first set in control with the score 25-8. “We made sure to focus on the little things and be there for each other,” sophomore defensive specialist Kaylee Torres said. The teamwork and focus seen during their performance e m p h a s i z e d t h e t e a m ’s commitment to success.

JESUS CORONEL | VIEWPOINTS

Freshman setter Kaina Myera spiking the ball in a game against Fullerton College on November 8 at Wheelock Gym.

RCC started the second set hot, taking an early lead by three points. However, the Hornets began to narrow the gap, showcasing their own determination.

T h e Ti g e r s k e p t t h e i r momentum going as Kaylee Torres delivered an impressive sequence of three consecutive aces, contributing to the team’s

unstoppable performance on the court. As much as the Hornets tried to score, they had no luck as the Tigers countered their hits and

serves. In a strong performance, RCC secured victory in the second set with a score of 25-12. Both teams entered the third set with intensity, delivering impressive hits and serves. The Hornets, determined to stay in contention for a comeback victory, started strong in the third set. The Tigers reignited the spark they’ve had all game as they executed amazing plays to tie the game. Fullerton was putting points on the board in an attempt to take the lead from RCC but it wouldn’t be enough as the Tigers secured the win in the third set 25-17. Rcc swept all three sets for the victory. “It’s good to get back on the winning side of it,” Lowden said. “We gotta win tomorrow to secure our spot for 5th place and then hopefully get a playoff game.” The pressure was on for the girls in this match-up, not only to get on the win column but for the sophomore’s last home game of the season. “It feels really good especially since it’s our sophomore night,” freshman defensive specialist Kelly Moore said. “I feel like we really played a lot for them.” The Tigers finished their conference with a 9-7 record. RCC must now wait and see if they have eared themselves a spot in the playoffs.

Women’s basketball picks up first win of season ETHAN AGULERIA STAFF REPORTER

The Riverside City College women’s basketball team secured their first win of the season after losing their first two games. The Tigers were able to pull out victorious against Bakersfield College Renegades, bringing their record to 1-2 at Wheelock Gymnasium on Nov.9. “It feels great, and it feels great because it was a great team win,” head coach Alicia Berber said. “A lot of energy, and it was exciting to see all of the freshmen improve with some confidence that’s always fun to watch as a coach.” RCC faced a challenging first quarter, trailing by as much as ten points. Bakersfield took a 33-32 lead to end the half. The Tigers had a big third quarter, outscoring the Renegades 23-15. Sophomore forward Janara Williams, scored 10 of the 23 points. RCC finished the third quarter with a 55-48 lead. As the game was coming to an end, the Tigers started turning the ball over. “There’s still a few turnovers we need to fix,” sophomore Ayanna Flakes said. “But that just comes with time and experience.” Sophomore forward Antieya

PHOTO COURTESY BY JOSH CARRANZA

Alicia Berber, Head Coach, brings in the team during a team out before half-time while having a close score with Bakersfield at Wheelock Gym on Nov.9.

Brown secured the victory with two big free throws, ultimately securing the game 78-73. “Overall, I thought we played well,” sophomore forward Alyssa

Stribling said. “We did get into some foul trouble early, but we overcame that, and we kept up with them.” Both Antieya Brown and

Janara Williams had noteworthy performances in the game. Antieya recorded 22 points and 30 rebounds, while Janara contributed her own 25 points and

14 rebounds. RCC will next take on Porterville College while they participate in the Santa Ana Tournament on Nov. 30.

November 16, 2023

STEPHEN DAY | VIEWPOINTS

Riverside City College Tiger quarterback Jordan Barton looks down field for an open receiver during the Tigers match-up against the Saddleback College Bobcats at RCC’s Wheelock Stadium on Oct 28.

Tigers defeat Bobcats at home, stay undefeated This story originally ran on Viewpointsonline.org following the Tiger’s win over Saddleback College on Oct. 28 IZAIAH CERRATOS STAFF REPORTER

Riverside City College foorball defeated Saddleback City College in a dominant team performance. The Tigers entered this week’s contest with a record of 7-0. The Saddleback Bobcats held a record of 5-2 and were on a five-game win streak before the matchup. RCC swiftly started the game when quarterback Jordan Barton connected with running back Bryce Strong on a 30-yard pass along the left sideline. This play would pave the way for Bryce Strong to score a rushing touchdown, giving the Tigers an early 6-0 lead. The Tiger’s defense had one

of its best performances of the season. The RCC defense held the Bobcats to 0 points and forced a miss on the lone field goal attempt for the Bobcats all afternoon. The Saddleback offense was on a roll and had scored 62 points in their previous matchup at Grossmont College. Head Coach Tom Craft and his staff had the Tiger’s defense locked in this afternoon. The Tiger ’s defense has allowed 0 points in, holding three consecutive opponents scoreless during October. The Tigers have outscored opposing opponents 169-0 since Oct. 1. “Today’s shutout was a significant one,” said Craft.

“We moved some pieces around mid-season and now this unit is making plays.” The defense secured a crucial interception early in the first half, setting up RCC’s offense deep in Saddleback Territory. “We’re a dominant group up front and in the back end,” said sophomore Markee Moorer, defensive end for the Tiger’s. “We know as a defensive group that we are very talented.” Quarterback Jordan Barton dropped back on the read option pass and connected with Jesiah Cornell for the 25-yard touchdown pass. The Tigers extended their lead 20-0 in the first quarter. The offensive line for the

Tigers was key to the offense’s success against Saddleback College. The Bobcat defense line held its ground to start the game but the Tiger ’s big offensive line wore down the Saddleback defense as the second half continued. “ We g o t t a b e d o m i n a n t going forward for these last two games,”said freshman right guard Doughless Telomasaid. “As a team, we gotta come ready to play now that we are getting closer to playoffs.” RCC would open up the second half with a field goal pushing the lead to 30-0. The Tiger’s offense switched to a heavy run attack in the second half. The team relied on its running backs Bryce Strong and

Ayinde Bankole. Bankole gashed the Bobcat’s defense in the third quarter and then broke loose for a 40-yard touchdown run that would push the RCC lead to 36-0. “Offense started quick and that is how we want to play,” Craft said. “We slowed down in the second half but put the game away with the run attack and chewed the clock.” The special teams unit for the Tigers shined in the punt game as freshman punter Nathaniel Wallace-Dilling perfectly placed multiple of his punts within the Saddleback 10-yard line to back the Bobcats up against their goal line. RCC now prepares for the upcoming playoffs.

Women’s waterpolo remains undefeated in conference ALIAH TUBBS STAFF REPORTER

The Riverside City College Tigers are now on a six-game winning streak after outplaying the Cypress Chargers on Oct. 18. The Tigers started the game dominating the Chargers, holding the opposing team scoreless throughout the first quarter at 6-0. The team found its rhythm almost immediately after freshman attacker Nicole Robertson scored the first goal of the match during the first minute of play. “It felt pretty good,” Robertson said. “It's always a team effort.” RCC’s freshman attacker, Anabella Storar, opened the second quarter with a goal of

CESAREO ARREOLA SALDANA | VIEWPOINTS

Sophomore 2M ,Jessie Nelson, looking to pass the ball to a teammate against Crypress College at the Riverside Aquatics Complex on Oct. 18.

her own. top scorers,” Storar said. RCC kept up the momentum as “It always feels good (to Going into halftime, the the team scored almost instantly score) because I'm not one of the Tigers stayed in the lead 9-4. after halftime. The Chargers

quickly followed suit, adding to the game’s score. As the third quarter came to a close, the Tigers continued to dominate with the score standing at 15-5, showcasing their commanding lead in the match up. The 4th quarter intensified as both teams raced to score points. In the end, the RCC Tigers secured the victory, defending the team’s winning streak. “We won by a lot,” RCC head coach Doug Finfrock said. “We wanted to play at the level that we know we're capable of.” Riverside City College will be traveling to the College of Marin to take on Modesto College in the 3C2A State Champion Quarterfinals on Nov.16.

12 November 16, 2023

PHOTOS BY ADRIAN TAYLOR | VIEWPOINTS

Riverside City College Tiger running back Bryce Strong, cutting through the Fullerton Hornets defense at RCC’s Wheelock Stadium on Nov 11.

Tigers fall to Hornets in battle for playoff positioning GAME from page 1

fix our mistakes in practice and go into the playoffs with a chip on our shoulder.” After the fumble, the Hornets made a 30-yard push downfield to the Riverside 25-yard line. Fullerton’s kicker, Jonathan Fobear nailed a 35-yard field goal, evening the score at 3-3. Both RCC and Fullerton’s defenses remained impressive, preventing scoring until late in the game and holding each other below 400 yards of total offensive yards. “It felt good being able to hold them below 20 points,” said Tigers nose guard Tony Ulima. “But as a defense, we just have to be better and more disciplined. Especially after a humbling loss like this.” Despite errors throughout the game, RCC’s defense was still performing at a high level, holding the Hornets to 60 yards of offense in the first two quarters of the game before going into halftime. In the third quarter, Fullerton’s defensive errors allowed RCC to advance to the Hornets’ 37-yard line. The Tigers capitalized, scoring their first touchdown on a 37yard pass from Barton to receiver Jacqueze Modica, who broke free from the Hornets’ defense. It would be the only score in the third quarter as the Tigers held onto a 10-3 lead. The fourth quarter started slowly as RCC marched downfield, capping their drive with another field goal from Panikowski, extending the lead to 13-3. On Fullerton’s next drive, the

Riverside City College Tigers football team’s assistant coach Brandon Brooks strategizes with the players during halftime of their game against the Fullerton Hornets at RCC’s Wheelock Stadium on Nov 11.

Hornets scored on a 59-yard catch and run from Hornets receiver Christian Steward down the left sideline off a screen pass. With the successful extra point, Fullerton closed the gap to a score of 13-10. RCC advanced up the field for 63 yards before being stopped in the red zone once more by Fullerton’s defense, settling for another field goal to lead 16-10

going into the final six minutes of the game. Despite RCC’s defensive effort, the Tigers fell to mental mistakes as Fullerton marched into scoring position. The Hornets scored on a wide-open pass to Steward to take the lead 17-16 with 31 seconds left. On RCC’s final drive, Barton threw an interception to Fullerton defensive back Tyan Milton, losing

the game. “I’m upset, of course,” Strong said. “But we still have playoffs and that’s all I’m looking forward to.” This defeat not only signifies the team’s first loss this season but also marks the first instance that the Tigers’ high-scoring offense failed to score more than 38 points in a game. “We’re the top-scoring team in

Southern California,” Craft said. “If we got it done offensively like we have throughout this season, this game would have a very different outcome.” This loss concludes the Tigers’ regular season with a 9-1 record. They will play at Hilmer Lodge Stadium against top-seeded Mt. San Antonio on Nov. 25 in the Southern California Football Association’s semi-final round.