Volume 70 Issue 19

The Highlander

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE

VOL. 70, ISSUE 19

For the week of Tuesday, March 8, 2022

est. 1954

WINTER SOULSTICE 2022

pg. 10-11 LEO YUE / THE HIGHLANDER

2

TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org

Upcoming Events:

08

Japanese Taiko Drumming Demonstration 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.

ARTS Building Amphitheatre Steps

Zumba®/Dance Fusion 6:15 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Virtual Event

09

Softball vs. San Diego 2 p.m.

Amy S. Harrison Field

School of Public Policy Winter 2022 Mixer 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

CHASS Interdisciplinary South, 4th Floor Patio

Baseball vs. Portland 5 p.m.

Riverside Sports Complex

Virtual Kahoot! with Finals Week Stress Relief 6 p.m.

Virtual Event

Joke Booth with Finals Week Stress Relief 2 p.m.

Orbach Library (Science Library)

Auditions: RED OLEANDERS by Rabindranath Tagore 5 p.m.

Studio Theatre

Lap Swim & Stay Fit Workouts and Class 12:00 p.m.

Student Recreation Center (SRC), SRC South Pool

InBody Composition Analysis 3:00 p.m.

Student Recreation Center (SRC), Personal Training Office

Tuesday

Wednesday

10

Thursday

11 Friday

12

Saturday

COURTESY OF CHASS MARKETING

13 Sunday

HIGHLANDER STAFF Editor-in-Chief

CONTACT US

Managing Editor

Fatema Shalabi

Madison Rheins

editorinchief @highlandernews.org

managingeditor @highlandernews.org

News Editor

Asst. News Editor

Amaray Alvarez

Abhijit Rege

aalva283@ucr.edu

news@highlandernews.org Opinions editor

Asst. Opinions Editor David Moreno dmore018@ucr.edu

Evelyn Homan opinions@highlandernews.org Features Editor

Asst. Features Editor

Ashely Chen

Senna Omar

somar005@ucr.edu

features@highlandernews.org Radar Editor Sam Lao radar@highlandernews.org

Asst. Radar Editor Brenda Jovel bjove002@ucr.edu

Sports Editor Kevin Contreras sports@highlandernews.org

Asst. Sports Editor Hansel Chu hchu039@ucr.edu

Production Manager

Art Director

Brinly Den

Amanda Joy Teano

highlander.art. director@gmail.com

productionmanager @highlandernews.org

Production Assistants

Greg Haessner Noemi Bravo

Madeleine Padnabhan

Photography Editor

Ryan Poon

photo@highlandernews.org

Asst. Photo Editor Leo Yue lyue003@ucr.edu

Staff Photographers

Joshua Wang Video Editor

Cesar Hernandez

video.highlander@gmail.com Business Manager

Dorian Dabbs

highlanderads@gmail.com Marketing Coordinator

Keani Lei Lee

marketing.highlander@gmail.com Tech Director

Ivan Zhang

yzhan753@ucr.edu

Asst. Video Editor Jimmy Lee Truong jtruo038@ucr.edu Asst. Business Manager Adan Villanueva avill256@ucr.edu

Highlander 101 Highlander Union Building Riverside, CA 92521 www.highlandernews.org editorinchief@highlandernews.org TIP LINE: (951) 827-2105 Help the Highlander stay on top of what is happening on campus and in the general UCR community. Call this number and leave a message for the Editorial Board with your tip. Be sure to include your full name, relation to UCR, and a number or email address where you can be reached for more details.

Editorial Office: (951) 827-3617

Business Office: (951) 827-3457

Classifieds & Billing: (951) 827-5039

Fax: (951) 827-7049

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Highlander accepts letters from the campus community. They must be 600-800 words at length and include the author’s name and contact information.

Topics should be UCR-centric and/or pertain to our generation of students. Contact Opinions Editor Samuel Harrison at opinions@highlandernews.org by Wednesday if interested in writing a letter and submit the completed letter by Saturday at noon. Letters can and will be rejected if it does not meet requirements.

LEGAL The Highlander is published and copyrighted by the Highlander for the students, faculty and staff of UCR. All rights are reserved. Reprinting of any material in this publication without the written permission of the Highlander is strictly prohibited. Readers are allowed one free copy of the newspaper. For additional copies or for subscription information, please contact the Highlander.

The Highlander fully supports the University of California’s policy on non-discrimination. The student media reserve the right to reject or modify advertising whose content discriminates on the basis of ancestry, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, age, sex or sexual orientation.

The Highlander has a media grievance procedure for resolving complaints against it. All inserts that are printed in the Highlander are independently paid publications and do not reflect the views of the Editorial Board, the staff or The University of California or the Associated Students of UCR.

14

Monday

Multimedia

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS Advertising Information Please submit Classifed ads by calling 951-827-3457 or by emailing Highlanderads@ucr.edu Payment Visa and Mastercard Make checks payable to The Highlander Newspaper No refunds Rates Classified: $2 per line; 17 characters (spaces, dashes, etc.)

THEHIGHLANDERUCR

f

THE HIGHLANDER @HIGHLANDERUCR UCRHighlander KUCR 88.3 FM

News

NEWS

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/news

TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

A Student’s Guide to the Ongoing Russian Invasion of Ukraine

AMARAY ALVAREZ Assistant News Editor HARU CHANG Contributing Writer

The invasion of Ukraine is currently shaking society to its foundations. This extremely perilous and fragile geopolitical situation persists at the cost of civilian lives in the Ukrainian democratic state. This conflict is already a humanitarian catastrophe with over a million people fleeing or having fled from the war-torn country as of last week.

Ukraine gained independence in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. In the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, Britain, Russia and the United States promised to “respect the independence and sovereignty and the existing borders of Ukraine” while refraining from the use of force as long as Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons. In return, Ukraine was promised security and protection. If Russia was ever to violate the Budapest Memorandum, U.S. officials assured Ukraine that they would take a “strong interest” and respond accordingly.

The Russian elites, Putin in particular, do not see Ukraine as an independent country, and see the separation of Ukraine from Russia not only as a historical and religious disaster, but one that is maintained by a historical enemy. Putin sees the fact that Ukraine has not come back to the Russian fold as largely a result of Western plotting, particularly by the U.S. On Friday Mar. 4, Russian forces seized Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya nuclear power plant, the largest in Europe sparking fears of a nuclear catastrophe worse than the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. Invading Russian troops have laid siege to key Ukrainian cities including Mariupol and Kharkiv, leaving cities like Chernihiv descemated by air strikes. Ukrainian President Zelensky urged world leaders to stop Russia.

During his first official State of the Union address on March 1, 2022, Biden announced that the U.S. stands with Ukraine and reiterated that Putin’s attack was premeditated and unprovoked. In response, the U.S. is enforcing sanctions, cutting off their banking, limiting Russia’s access to technology HIGHLANDERS’ DETAIL THEIR EXPERIENCE AND WHAT TO EXPECT WITH THE UPCOMING QUARTER. ABHIJIT REGE News Editor

The Spring Quarter is approaching and many classes will finally return to being fully in-person. With consideration to UCR’s historical reputation as a commuter school, this provides Highlanders with ample opportunity to reflect on the UCR parking and transportation experience and discuss what to look forward to next quarter.

Some students have shared positive feedback with finding parking these past quarters of online/hybrid classes and have found that the struggle for parking has not been as prevalent as previous years. “My experience with UCR parking this quarter has been great and I have not struggled to find parking,” commented Carlos Ramos, a third-year mechanical engineering major.

But Ramos noted, “However, if next quarter becomes fully physical, then I expect things to change for the worse,” which is a shared concern for the upcoming quarter.

Parking has constantly been scrutinized on the UCR campus due to it being limited in space and many students often struggle to find good parking in a reasonable amount of time.

UCR Transportation and Parking Services (TAPS) has made ongoing efforts to remedy these concerns and reduce parking issues dealt with by undergraduates. Recent developments

by TAPS include the construction of Parking Structure 1 located in Lot 13, that began this quarter, and pricing reductions and refunds on permits during this winter quarter of 2022. Students can expect to witness more construction on campus with the new Student Health and Counseling Center, which TAPS has reported will vacate 60 spaces in Lot 21.

COURTESY OF PEXELS

to weaken its military, seizing their assets and joining allies in closing American airspace for any Russian flights. The U.S. is providing military, economic and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine. Biden vowed to continue to aid the Ukrainian people as they defend their country.

One of the most severe sanctions is the Central Bank of Russia being prevented from accessing its reserves in euros and dollars; roughly half of Russia’s $640 billion reserves have been effectively frozen. This is a National Strategic buffer. With its financial system and currency under pressure, Russia will be unable to access these reserves which are denominated in foreign currencies. Some Russian backs will be disconnected from the SWIFT global financial messaging system making it difficult for Russia to make secure cross-border payments.

Travel bans and asset freezing are directed at financial elites, political officials and members of Putin’s inner circle.

Paul D’Anieri, a UCR professor of political science and international policy who specializes in Ukrainian and Russian conflict spoke with The Highlander regarding the ongoing war.

In regards to sanctions, professor D’Anieri does not believe in their effectiveness.

“Sanctions are highly effective but won’t stop Russia waging their war on Ukraine. It will make it hard for Russia to prolong this war but Putin is willing to see this through to the end even at the cost of civilian lives,” professor D’Anieri told The Highlander. This has been indicated by over 20 years of economic pressures, political pressures, haranguing various countries, small conflicts and now this war to seize Ukraine.

3

PROFESSOR PAUL D’ANIERI SPEAKS WITH THE HIGHLANDER ABOUT THE CURRENT STATE OF AFFAIRS IN UKRAINE.

When asked how America can maintain an anti-war stance in this conflict, and play a constructive role in the maintenance of peace and security both regionally and globally, professor D’Anieri responded that the U.S.’s involvement in Afghanistan and Vietnam undermine the credibility of their position.

“Russia’s invasion is wrong and we are capable of doing something about it. There is power in the number of countries working together.”

This war is especially prevalent as many young people are seeing it unfold through the lens of the internet. Sites like Tiktok and Twitter are allowing people to see real time footage and hear first hand stories from refugees and even military members. This however, opens those consuming this media to the possibility of fake news. Professor D’Anieri states that it is unrealistic to expect credible news just scrolling on your phone.

“If you are not paying for your news, you are the product.”

Professor D’Anieri suggests students consume information from reputable news companies or verified journalists.

There have also been reports of differential treatment towards refugees that are people of color trying to flee Ukraine and find sanctuary in neighboring countries. “I don’t doubt these reports,” claimed professor D’Anieri. “America isn’t the only place that has these issues… it is sad to be in a situation and have additional difficulty because of racism.”

As the war progresses, it is important to not ostracize Ukrainian or Russian diaspora living in the U.S. or other countries. It is also important to acknowledge the differential treatment of white refugees versus others. Poland and Hungary are currently refusing to let in African and Middle Eastern refugees reinstating racism during a time of crisis.

“We should give attention to these refugees when they have needs and when there is a lack of consistency in America’s treatment of refugees, especially when it comes to the difference of race,” states professor D’Anieri.

Other catastrophes around the world have received substantially less coverage compared to this war due to them not having predominantly white populations. As you intake H coverage of this event, be mindful of other ongoing crises. ■

Students Reflect Upon the Parking Situation on Campus

Undergraduates have limited options when choosing a lot to park in, as the most commonly bought GOLD permit only grants access to Lots 26, 30, 32 and 50. Some students may have also purchased the recently created GOLD PLUS pass that also grants access to the new parking structure. But these lots are unfortunately far from many students’ classes.

Third-year business administration major, Caleb Faigin, voiced his disappointment with parking availability explaining, “I find it frustrating that students only have limited access to lots other than 30 around campus. It would make sense to allow students to park around the different areas around campus instead of having to walk all the way across for a class.”

Students have also shared concerns of the pricing and availability of parking permits.

Faigin expressed, “I also find parking permits to be expensive and pointless. If I am a student paying tuition and fees, why is a parking permit not included?” Another UCR student shared, “I don’t like that we can only get one permit as I live and work on campus but I can’t get a permit to park near my job.” Some Highlanders have also shared their frustrations with the availability of the GOLD PLUS pass in previous quarters and how quickly they sell out, leaving few options.

Solving this problem has seen some creativity from Highlanders. Fourth-year English major Fatema Shalabi detailed her commuter experience, providing an example of what many students must resort to in order to avoid the hassle. “I commute to campus and park at the Muslim Student Association parking lot to avoid dealing with the hectic

scramble to find parking on campus.” Others have resorted to parking in nearby areas such as in front of their friends houses, or more commonly in the UV and GrandMarc parking spaces. But even these solutions present their own obstacles. Shalabi explained, “It’s usually about a 15-20 minute walk, depending on where my class is. It can be kind of a hassle sometimes, like if it’s raining or if it’s really hot, but it’s much cheaper and less stressful. so I think what I do is definitely more convenient for me.”

Another solution in the future may come in the form of a mobile app that students may utilize. Two UCR alum, Bharat Rai and Andrew Attia, have recently launched Pick Up N’ Park to help combat the challenges students have been facing with parking on campus. Rai, a grad of the class of 2020, gave more details of the app in an interview with the Highlander and hoped students could use it as a utility to get from point A to point B and share information. “Pick Up N’ Park is a mobile rideshare application for UCR students to help find parking and carpooling on campus.” Both features of the app, the parking feature, where students arriving can earn a parking spot by providing a ride for a departing student, and the carpooling feature, which aids students in accessing carpool options, aim to reduce the congestion commuters face as described by Rai. The service is provided free of charge for students.

Inspiration for the app came from parking issues dealt with by students in previous years.

Rai explained, “Parking was terrible, Lot 30 was overflowing. On average, it took 30 minutes to find a spot.” Rai developed the app

ARCHIVE / THE HIGHLANDER

concept, after seeing a line of students in Lot 30 exchanging parking spots for rides to spots.

Rai explained how he saw a disconnect between TAPS and Highlanders that was especially increased by the COVID-19 pandemic that led to a hectic In-person transition. “There is an information disconnect and uncertainty as to where to park. The transition being tough is a constant theme that reflects a lot of hurdles and challenges with getting engaged with the campus, faculty, and student life. At an individual level, students want to explore but there’s so much uncertainty.” Many students are unaware of the many rules, regulations and information that is provided by TAPS. Rai hopes that going into next quarter, students are able to be better informed and integrated with student life on campus and hopes that the improvements to parking and commuting will allow for students to increase their engagement with the campus. “This makes coming to UCR a more enjoyable experience. People start looking forward to coming to campus and reduce the challenges H and hurdles.”■

4 TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

NEWS

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/news

ASUCR

ASUCR’s 17th meeting sees the review of the athletics referendum to increase student athletics fees AMARAY ALVAREZ Assistant News Editor

The Associated Students of UCR’s 17th meeting took place Wednesday, March 2, both in person and through Zoom, at the ASUCR Senate Chambers. All members of the senate were present, excluding CHASS senators Christian Torres, Blanca Estela Alba, Christian Martinez and CNAS senator Catelin La, who were all excused.

Motions to approve the current meeting’s agenda were called for by Executive Vice President Mufida Assaf with a motion to add Finance Hearing Minutes 15, move the referendum in new business above judicial updates, remove special elections from the agenda and extend the public forum to 10 minutes. The previous meeting’s minutes were then opened and approved. Both passed with a vote count of 11-0-0.

During the public forum, Lance Esquillo, a first-year student from CALPIRG, spoke on behalf of the group stating they just passed their lobby day and are continuing to reduce single-use plastic on campus.

Student Roxanna Vasques, then announced that there would be a social the following day in-person and through Zoom where students could get to know one another and learn about food insecurity. They asked that the senators help promote the event.

Senate Chief Justice Mohammad Almouzzan spoke next, reminding the senators to be polite when speaking on the topic of the athletics referendum.

Christian Valdez, a UCR graduate student with the R’Garden, then spoke discussing their need for more funding. About 37% of the student body face food insecurity and the R’Garden’s production rate has largely decreased due to there being limited resources from the school. This program is only funded through a basic needs grant.

Valdez is a volunteer, as a result, and stated that the athletics referendum was supported by administration but a $10 one for the R’Garden was not. He does not want to diminish the importance of athletics but hopes that the referendum for the R’Garden can be reconsidered if the athletics one passes.

New business was introduced next with the presentation of the Referendum: Student Fee Increase Needed to Support The Continuation of an NCAA Division I Athletics Program at UCR and Ensure Equity with Other UC Campuses. The senate chambers audience was filled with members of UCR’s athletic teams in support of the referendum.

Katie Wong, a fourth-year psychology student who spoke at the last meeting, spoke first in support. Wong reiterated that the athletics department is their “second family” and that the current athlete fees cannot keep up with their expenditures. The D1 fee is unable to be paid and the department has had to cut staff and make other accommodations to lower costs. According to Wong, the games provide students with a break and are a positive environment. The referendum would help assist with these problems.

Luis Montanyo, the director of the Student Athletics Committee, spoke next and thanked everyone, including the senators, who came to the basketball game the previous Saturday.

Montanyo and the Athletics Committee want to create a good atmosphere for students where the community is able to engage with the university. Without the referendum passing, it’ll take this opportunity away.

Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Wesley Mallette, spoke last on behalf of the referendum asking for a formal request to pass it. The current fee of $35 a quarter has not increased in 21 years and the increase

to $125 a quarter is greatly needed. In the referendum, it outlines how the money will be used by athletics. Increasing the student fee will adjust budgets so that anyone receiving 100% aid will not have to pay for the fee out of pocket. Mallette ensured that athletics acknowledges the R’Pantry and R’Garden stating that they have volunteered and assisted them in the past. Athletics would like to continue to assist them and all groups that work to reduce and eliminate food insecurity.

Mallette has spoken with Dr. Peggy Mauk from the R’Garden on hosting them at games and providing monetary donations if the referendum increase passes.

The opportunity to ask Mallette questions was then opened to the senate.

Senator David Kiroloss asked Mallette to go more into depth on the work being done with athletics and the R’Garden.

Mallette responded that they are meeting with them to find out what their needs are so that they can support them with either annual donations or volunteer support; the meeting is set for March 17. He stated that the two groups are not correlated but athletics would like to be a partner to help reduce food insecurity.

Senator Aalani Richardson asked how athletics was funded the last 21 years without there being a student fee increase.

Mallette replied that athletics is funded through the school, student fees, money from the Big West Conference and NCAA. They landed on this monetary increase of $90 so UCR’s athletics could mimic the same price as other UCs in the Big West Conference.

Many of the sports programs have been working in a deficit and athletics wants to be equitable and on par with the other universities. Mallate ended that they plan to be transparent with how the money is spent.

Senator Rachel Parades asked for clarification on what the money funds and where it goes.

Mallette responded that through the fee, $31 goes to undergraduate financial aid. The fee also keeps all games free for undergrad students. Programs like band, dance andd cheer have been cut and would hopefully return with the added money. Athletics also wants to support a women’s success initiative to prepare female athletes for life after college.

Senator Kiroloss asked how students who do not receive financial aid will afford the fee increase.

Mallette stated that about 10% of UCR students do not receive aid and those will then have to cover the fee out of pocket. Over the 10 weeks in a quarter, it will not be a large amount. The student fee was not originally installed properly which is why athletics is now in their current situation. UCR’s fee will still be lower than the other UCs. Senator Kiroloss then asked how the referendum will affect students not interested in athletics and why they should vote for it.

Mallette responded that no other programs elevate a campus like athletics does. The department creates pride for current students and alumni. When they win games, they receive ESPN and other coverage with results in promotion and recognition for the campus.

Senator Kiroloss asked Mallette to give his word that athletics will assist the R’Garden if the referendum passes.

Mallette replied that they will support them as possible but have been told by the campus that they cannot directly include them in their referendum.

President Pro Tempore Orlando Cabalo then asked if Mallette had an estimate of how much athletics would donate to the R’Garden.

Mallette responded that he did not have

that number at the moment and that they will support the program as the campus allows them to.

President Will Wang then spoke stating that the senators are asking several questions about the R’Garden when both programs are important. He feels the senate should not put the burden of the R’Garden on athletics. The focus should be on the athletics referendum and what their program will do.

Senator Dorothy Doronilla spoke next, agreeing that athletics helps increase school spirit and morale. Doronilla asked if a memorandum of understanding with athletics and the R’Garden would be published before the senate elections and be made public to students.

Mallette responded that the MOU depends on how soon both groups can come to an agreement. He clarified that athletics wants to work together although these are separate issues.

Senator Richardson then asked why they are unable to reduce the fee by $22.50 if this money is then given to student aid.

Richardson also asked what percentage of student athletes are on a full or partial scholarship.

Mallette replied that the 25% is part of the requirement. The referendum requires that 25% goes back to campus so the $22.50 cannot be removed. He then stated that some student athletes are on full or partial aid and not everyone is on scholarship. The increased fees will also affect student athletes.

Senator Cabalo stated that due to athletics agreeing on assisting the R’Garden, he plans to vote yes to the referendum. Many students are struggling financially and live paycheck to paycheck but with athletics’ support for food security, Cabalo has decided to vote for it to be reconsidered.

Mallette replied that at the games, food and snacks are provided to students as well as t-shirts and other merchandise. The referendum will help continue these services.

Students who go to the games receive a meal thus assisting in food insecurity.

Senator Kirolos agreed that it is not the athletics department’s fault as to why Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Brian Haynes told the senate that they cannot have a referendum for the R’Garden. The athletics referendum will be beneficial to both groups and hopefully the senate can pass an official R’Garden referendum in the future.

Motion to rescind the vote from Feb. 2, was then done first by senator Victoria Nguyen and seconded by senator Kirolos.

The motion passed with a vote count of 120-0.

Senator Nguyen then motioned to move the referendum forward to have a student vote. The motion passed with a vote count of 11-1-0.

Judicial Updates followed with Chief justice Almouzzan announcing that judicial will begin using their council to assist in mediations between students when meeting with admin on non-legal issues. Judicial is also planning a law week with workshops for students interested in the field.

Almouzzan then announced that the judicial branch received a complaint the previous week and are moving forward with the case against Marketing and Promotions Director Wallace Fang for dereliction of duties. If any senators would like to present testimony in favor or against they must submit it in advance, this can also be done anonymously. The next steps are to have an arraignment then a hearing.

The senators were then able to ask Almouzzan questions regarding the complaint.

THE REFERENDUM IS NOW BEING RECONSIDERED BY THE SENATE AND WILL BE OPENED TO A STUDENT VOTE.

Senator Cabalo asked if the Judicial Council had decided to send the complaint to the senate.

Almouzzan replied that the constitution is vague and if members of the executive branch file a complaint, it is up to the judicial branch to see if it should move forward to a hearing.

President Wang asked if there is a middle ground between removal or receiving strikes.

Almouzzan replied that the judiciary did discuss strikes and if the senate does not agree, it may lead to sanctions.

Sen Kiroloss asked what the sanction would be.

Almouzzan responded that due to this being unprecedented, the justices need to think of sanctions for this case and future ones.

Sen Garcia asked if it is the decision of the senate to decide the repercussions of the hearing.

Almouzzan responded that the senate would decide.

Sen Richardson then asked what would happen during the arraignment and when senators would learn about the specific details of the case.

Almouzzan replied that there would be an arraignment then a hearing. The senate would vote on how to proceed or punish Fang.

Sen Nguyen stated that in the past the senate has voted on these issues and asked if there is a preferred method of voting.

Almouzzan responded that the senate will enter into closed session for deliberation and can have an open or secret ballot.

Senator Cabalo stated that he does not think a secret ballot would be good and that senators should answer to their constituents.

Committee reports were read next with the opening of Finance Hearing Minutes 14 and 15. During the 14th finance meeting, National Alliance on Mental Illness was allocated $750, Black Student Union $3,500 and Lebanese Student Association $1,208.

During the 15th finance meeting, HOSA, the Future Health Professionals, was allocated $908. Both minutes were approved.

Three pieces of legislation were then presented to be approved.

SR-W22-014 Resolution to Publish and Promote the UCR Resource Handbook was presented first. This legislation would publish a survey released in June 2021 and July 2021 that gathered student concerns regarding the transition back to campus. It was approved with a count of 11-0-0.

SR-W22-015 In Solidarity with Ukrainian Students and Student Service Members signifies that UCR is in solidarity with those involved in the war against Russia. This legislation was approved with a count of 110-0.

SR-W22-016: Repeal Scooter Ban on Campus would allow private scooter companies, like Lime and Bird, to operate around the campus and be utilized by students.

The previous ban of these companies would be lifted. This legislation was approved with a count of 12-0-0.

Senator Reports followed with senator Cabalo announcing that he has worked with the student debt crisis center on creating a national campaign. Cabalo is also working on providing better wages for student workers so that they are paid minimum wage.

No one spoke during public comment.

During the roundtable and announcements, senator Kiroloss spoke encouraging the senators to keep their integrity in regards to the upcoming hearing and to not involve other organizations or outside affiliations.

H The meeting was adjourned at 9:12 p.m.■

Opinions

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/opinions

OPINIONS

TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

THE HIGHLANDER EDITORIAL

COURTESY OF PEXELS

As the war in Ukraine escalates, the world must hit Putin where it hurts UKRANIANS DESERVE AS MUCH SUPPORT AS CAN BE REASONABLY GIVEN, BUT SANCTIONS ON RUSSIA MAY NOT BE ENOUGH.

R

ussia’s invasion of Ukraine has created an incredibly difficult situation for Ukrainians. The world leaders who are trying to navigate assisting Ukraine are also facing difficulties, especially since Putin seemed to threaten nuclear action against countries that offer military aid and recently placed his special forces, which include nuclear intelligence, on “high alert”. With all of this chaos and the world trying to help Ukraine while edging around Putin’s disgusting actions, Biden chose to take the option of sending troops completely off the table. While this may be the right choice for now, since Russia’s invasion began only in the last two weeks, Biden needs to start thinking of wise, tactical choices as the world watches the early course of this war.

Everything about the situation in Ukraine is intensely tragic, and Putin’s trigger-happy attitude is not helping anyone. However, the choice right now to avoid sending troops — whether because Biden wants to avoid American death, or because he believes Putin’s threats may have some weight— is the right one.

The history of American foreign intervention in problems adds another difficult obstacle to contend with. Though it’s disappointing to stand by while Ukrainians fight tooth and nail for their sovereignty, it’s best that America keeps itself out of the conflict for the time being.

It’s too early to tell if mass world intervention is going to be necessary. Avoiding it in the

first place unfortunately seems like the better course of action, as Cold War tensions between Russia and America still very much remain. As it stands, involvement seems to imply intense escalation in tension and brinkmanship.

Though the world is still subtly supporting Ukraine by sending ammunition and issuing sanctions against Russia, and although Ukraine is holding its own well in fighting against the Russians, it still is easy to assume it might not be enough in the long run. The sanctions that Biden and other world leaders issued will only serve to hurt the 99% of Russia that is innocent in this conflict and won’t hit Putin where it hurts for a great while. And though Russians are working to protest within their country to get Putin out, combined with a bounty now placed on Putin’s head, the world can only stand by and keep a close eye on what Putin is doing.

While sanctions have the potential to not be enough, even though the Russian ruble has plummeted in value as a result of them, the world must be willing to consider other options to help Ukraine if necessary. Unfortunately, this could mean the possibility of sending direct aid to Ukraine. This war is especially different from ones seen in the past because of how primary sources from the Ukrainian battlefront are being placed for all to see on social media.

Because of this, people with social media platforms outside of Ukraine can keep sharing these stories and use their platforms to offer

support to these people.

Furthermore, the chance for more military aid cannot be taken completely off the table.

Though Putin has threatened nuclear war if any NATO country gets involved, the reality is that he could potentially fire off nukes anyway.

If the situation necessitates it, sending troops to help Ukraine and risking that chance for a Ukrainian victory could be worth it. The option should not be taken completely off the table, but it should certainly only be chosen as an action if absolutely necessary.

No one wants to get involved in a war; that much is certain. But if America and the world at large want to help Ukraine, then we need to center our focus on attacking Putin and his government. Attacking innocent people for an involvement they did not have is hardly any better than what Putin is doing to the Ukrainian people. More than ever, world leaders must band together to fight back against Putin and H his oligarchy to prevent more bloodshed. ■

The Highlander editorials reflect the majority view of the Highlander Editorial Board. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Associated Students of UCR or the University of California system.

5

6 TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

OPINIONS

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/opinions

Creating green bridges will help limit humanity’s negative impacts on wildlife AS ANIMAL DEATHS RELATED TO FREEWAYS CONTINUE TO INCREASE, GREEN BRIDGES PROVE TO BE AN ESSENTIAL PART OF ANIMAL CONSERVATION. FATEMA SHALABI Managing Editor

COURTESY OF PEXELS

One of the most discussed topics regarding animal conservation surrounds the role that humanity plays in the increasing numbers of species going extinct. A lot of this conversation is often attributed to matters such as climate change, which has seen increasing and abnormal temperature patterns.

In turn, natural habitats have been facing irreversible damages, relocating various species and killing off others. Though this is one of the common ways the animal kingdom has been negatively impacted, the building of infrastructures within regions densely populated with animals has created a different kind of habitat invasion and forced relocation — one caused by the ever-looming presence of freeways.

The sight of roadkill on the sides of U.S. freeways is a sight familiar to all Americans. Seeing dead animals, no matter how big or small, has become no more than an afterthought. People

acknowledge the unfortunate circumstances resulting in these deaths but might believe that there isn’t much to be done about it. However, that is far from the truth. A recent bipartisan infrastructure bill has been passed in Congress that will see the allocation of at least $350 million to fund the development of wildlife crossings called “green bridges” across the country.

Though this is undoubtedly a huge sum of money, the benefits both to humanity and animals will outweigh the cost.

The main issue regarding the presence of freeways is that it simply splits the natural habitats of animals into two, restraining individual organisms to one side andw making it highly unlikely to cross unscathed — if at all.

Of course, this results in many harmful effects, one of them being the limited accessibility to genetic diversity for repopulation.

Other issues created also include limited accessibility to natural resources, like water and food.

Critics of this new bill might argue whether this sum of money will generate more benefits

than costs, arguing that animals will simply be unaware of the bridges that have been created either over or under freeway passes. However, noting that these bridges will be designed as a continuation of the natural environment should be enough to ease concerns. Though some animals will still attempt to cross busy freeways, a larger majority will naturally move toward more quiet expansions of their familiar environments while abandoning freeway crossings.

Studies have shown that animal deaths and the number of collisions in states where animal crossings have already been implemented have largely decreased. For example, in Arizona, green bridges are believed to have contributed to a 90% decrease in collisions within territories of elk. In turn, this concludes that incorporating crossings easily accessible to animals will prove to be a positive one for animals and humans alike, whose chances of having to pay for collision costs will decrease in H tandem with animal deaths. ■

Situationships are not for the faint of heart AS YOUNG PEOPLE ENGAGE IN SITUATIONSHIPS, LACK OF COMMUNICATION MAKES THESE TYPES OF CONNECTIONS HARMFUL. YSABEL NAKASONE Staff Writer

All relationships are founded upon communication, even ones as seemingly informal as the so-called situationship.

A situationship is something

less clear-cut than a committed relationship, but more than a typical friendship, and they have become increasingly common among younger people. There’s a lot of controversy around the success of situationships as they often lead to a misalignment in the level of commitment between partners. However, situationships can be healthy and beneficial if boundaries and emotional needs are expressed and understood between partners.

The idea that a situationship does not require work like a typical relationship does is a fallacy. In some cases, it may even require more time and focus. In order to have a successful situationship, it cannot be considered easier or less impactful than committed relationships. That assumption is what leads one person to feel cheated by the other.

The concept of situationships, or friends with benefits relationships, are less concerning to young people who don’t think of these trends as an issue. Younger generations are delaying other events such as becoming homeowners or having

children, highlighting that the younger generation is more open to teasing the boundaries of traditional practices. These relationships have been described as a culture of “fast sex” and “slow love” by Justin Garcia, an evolutionary biologist at the

Kinsey Institute. In other words, it’s a show of growth that people aren’t engaging in cultural norms simply because they are cultural norms, but are instead exploring and learning what is right for them and their life journey.

A theme that appears in many articles on situationships is a pushing of blame onto men for not wanting to be in committed relationships and engaging in situationships. Now, it has to be said that for a situationship to work, there has to be some level of emotional maturity and emotional availability. Without that, these situationships can and do become toxic and manipulative for either partner. But when someone has clearly communicated their needs, it’s not right to blame them for sticking to it. It’s imperative that one stops thinking they can change people when they have effectively communicated their ability and desire to commit or not. People change in their own time, and thinking people will change on someone else’s time leads to heartbreak and disappointment.

If someone is unable or

unwilling to communicate their level of emotional availability or what they want in a relationship, they shouldn’t be entering a situationship in the first place.

They should be working on H personal growth first.■

ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY OF FREEPIK

Features THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/features

FEATURES

TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

ILLUSTRATION COURTESY OF CREATEVIL @FREEPIK

Riverside

ICKEN D S Festival

serves up literacy and laughter

EVELYN HOMAN / THE HIGHLANDER EVELYN HOMAN Opinions Editor

Riverside’s Dickens Festival carries on in the traditions of Riverside culture and celebrating history.

Founded in the 1990s, the festival exists with the intention of being a history lesson mixed with a love of literature and some extravagant fun.

The street festival is held toward the end of February every year, and this year’s was held on February 26 and 27.

Having attended a few years earlier, I

7

was excited to get the chance to go again as the street festival got back into swing following its hiatus due to the pandemic.

The festival was smaller than past years due to this being a rebound from the two years off. However, it didn’t stop people of all ages from dressing up in Victorian attire and walking around downtown Riverside. Many vendors from across California were set up selling all sorts of handmade goods all in the theme of the festival, from coffin-shaped earrings to steampunk

hats to Victorian-style skirts.

Food options at the fair were also very much on-theme; though the attendance at local restaurants downtown were in full swing because of the tourism this festival attracts, there were also options for more proper English food. Scotch eggs, meat pies, Welsh tea cakes and fish and chips were all served at several food stands across the festival. There was also a tent set up as a “tavern” for the 21 and up crowd to enjoy. Several bands retired from their performances on the two large stages at either end of the street to perform more for the adults.

The performances that took place were just as much on theme. Local bands that keep traditions of Scottish, Gaelic and English folk music alive could be heard multiple times throughout the two days the festival took place. A brass band played popular tunes from the turn of the 20th century. There were also shows that hark back to the popularity of Victorian-era circuses that enraptured both the young and old, from a clown to a sword swallower to a Punch and Judy puppet show. For those more excited about the literary aspect of the fair, there were also actors dressed

A STAPLE OF RIVERSIDE CULTURE SINCE THE 1990S, THE FESTIVAL’S FIRST YEAR BACK FOLLOWING THE PANDEMIC OFFERED SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. up as renowned figures, such as Kate Dickens Perugini, Jules Verne, Robert Louis Stevenson and Emily Dickinson.

They could be found walking the fair, and during a panel in which the audience could ask anything of these actors, they responded how they best thought their authors would.

Though smaller than pre-pandemic years, the return of the Dickens Festival was one I welcomed. It’s an incredible way to support local businesses that may not often get such a platform to share their niche creations and learn a little more about Victorian culture. It ties back to Riverside’s closeness with Victorian history (mainly since one of its residents in the 1800s — and the inventor of the navel orange — Eliza Tibbets, had an obsession with looking like Queen Victoria), and it honors these big names that still influence the canon of English literature to this day.

The street festival is always free to attend, and if you get the chance to in the coming years, I highly recommend H going. ■

8

FEATURES

TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/features

Possibly, but not quite, your grandmother’s oatmeal raisin cookie recipe

OATMEAL HAS BECOME TRENDY AGAIN, THESE OATMEAL RAISIN COOKIES WILL CURE YOUR CRAVING.

By: Amaray Alvarez, Assistant News Editor

O

atmeal raisin cookies get a bad rap. They’re often seen as boring or make people reminisce of a cookie their grandparents would eat. Throughout the pandemic, however, oatmeal has somewhat become trendy again through aesthetically-pleasing baked oatmeal bowls that have been popularized on TikTok. People are finally rediscovering that oatmeal can be fun and have the added benefit of having a high protein count. Whether you’re an oatmeal raisin cookie supporter or haven’t had one in years, this recipe is simple and should be the next cookie you decide to indulge in.

Preparation Time: 45 mins Servings: 2-3 dozens, depending on cookie size Ingredients: • ½ cup (or one stick) plus 6 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter • ⅔ cup of brown sugar • ½ cup of granulated sugar • 2 eggs • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract • 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon of baking soda • 1 teaspoon of cinnamon • ½ teaspoon of salt (or a pinch) • 1 cup of raisins (can be more if desired) • 1 cup of chocolate chips (can replace raisins or be combined with) • 3 cups of any type of oats

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 F. In a bowl, beat your softened butter and both sugars on medium speed. This can also be done by hand with a whisk.

Add your eggs and vanilla while continuing to mix.

Add in your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.

Mix in the oats and raisins. If you are using only chocolate chips, use one cup, and if you are mixing the two, use ½ a cup of each. The batter should be thick at this point.

6.

7.

Take your cookie sheet, and place your cookie dough balls 1-2 inches apart onto the ungreased sheet.

Parchment paper is recommended for less mess.

Bake the cookies for 5-10 minutes while watching so that they do not burn. Depending on how small or large they are, they will require less or more time. Your cookies should come out slightly underdone so that they finish cooking outside of the oven and remain chewy. Let them cool for H about 10 minutes, and enjoy! ■

ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY OF MACROVECTOR VIA FREEPIK

Cheese and carbs — what more could you ask for?

AN EASY LASAGNA RECIPE THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK.

By: Alexandria Lachman, Contributing Writer

F

inding easy meals and working with a college budget can be difficult and can seem unappealing with the idea of less ingredients. However, nothing screams comfort food more then eating the cheesy goodness that comes from lasagna.

You can never go wrong with lasagna and with the added bonus of reheating leftovers through the week, it’s a win win! Here is a budget friendly and hassle free lagana recipe that can be used as leftovers or shared with friends.

Start to finish: 30 minutes • • • • •

1 box of bow tie noodles ½ cup part-skim ricotta cheese ½ cup of shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, divided ¼ cup of grated parmesan 1 jar of pasta meat sauce (24 oz)

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 F. In a bowl, beat your softened butter and both sugars on medium speed. This can also be done by hand with a whisk.

Add your eggs and vanilla while continuing to mix.

Add in your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.

Mix in the oats and raisins. If you are using only chocolate chips, use one cup, and if you are mixing the two, use ½ a cup of each. The batter should be thick at this point.

6.

7.

Take your cookie sheet, and place your cookie dough balls 1-2 inches apart onto the ungreased sheet.

Parchment paper is recommended for less mess.

Bake the cookies for 5-10 minutes while watching so that they do not burn. Depending on how small or large they are, they will require less or more time. Your cookies should come out slightly underdone so that they finish cooking outside of the oven and remain chewy. Let them cool for H about 10 minutes, and enjoy! ■

Radar

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/ae

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

9

Kehlani gives a taste of her upcoming album with single ‘little story’

THE R&B SINGER’S NEW SINGLE GETS VULNERABLE IN ASKING FOR FORGIVENESS AND WANTING TO MOVE ON WITH HER LOVER.

ELIAS ALMAREZ-HERRERA Staff Writer

With Kehlani teasing her third studio album, “Blue Water Road,” on Twitter, fans have been excited regarding the news and are anxiously awaiting it. After the success that came from Kehlani’s last studio album, “It Was Good Until It Wasn’t,” fans have been awaiting the release of more music from the singer. Kehlani released her first single “altar” off the album back in September 2021. Kehlani returns with her second single “little story” from the album, released on Feb. 24While the album’s release date is not yet confirmed, Kehlani’s release of singles from the album, such as “altar” and “little story,” help to give fans a glimpse. “little story” begins with a little instrumental as a guitar strums to the tune. As the guitar continues to play in the background of the song, it later gets paired with violins.. With the combination of both the guitar and violin, the tune of the song is able to beautifully blend with the lyrics

VERDICT:

and Kehlani’s vocals. This helps to create the right mood and gives life to the soft and sultry R&B song. Additionally, the tune adds to the lyrical components, matching with the peaceful and calming tone of the song.

In the song, Kehlani mainly sings about asking for forgiveness from her lover and wanting to continue their “little story.” It shows a more raw side to Kehlani, as she sings about love and wanting to make up and carry on with the relationship. In the first pre-chorus of the song, Kehlani sings, “I want you to pick up the pen and write me into your story.” Through these lyrics, she is trying to convey her feelings and desires for another chance at the relationship.

Kehlani’s vocals are what really shines through. In this specific song, Kehlani is able to match her soft and soothing vocals with the overall vibe of the song. Her voice is able to flow smoothly along with the notes and allows her vulnerability to show. With her singing, Kehlani is able to showcase the peaceful, heartfelt and chill vibes that go along with songs like “little

story.” Kehlani displays her art through her music, giving her fans music for them to enjoy listening to.

Alongside the release of “little story,” Kehlani dropped a music video at the same time. The video is shot in black and white, highlighting the music more than the video itself. It takes the focus out from the visual senses and focuses more on the listening aspect. Despite the black and white effect, the video has plenty of character to represent the song and has the ability to be aesthetically appealing to watch.

Since Kehlani’s past studio albums, she has continued to grow and mature in her music. Her music has changed from fast, upbeat songs to more heartfelt and raw lyrical focused tracks. She takes her fans along on her music journey through her emotions and growth in her own life. As her music gets released, she is able to tell stories through her songs and its lyrics. So far, this album has looked more toward H growth through self-love and discovery. ■

Kehlani’s newest single shines with her soothing vocals and beautiful instrumentals in the background. “little story” excites fans as they eagerly await her upcoming album, releasing later this year.

COURTESY OF KEHLANI VIA YOUTUBE

Never before seen tapes document the evolution of a creative genius

ALWAYS CREDITING HIMSELF AS TRANSCENDING GENRE, “JEEN-YUHS: A KANYE TRILOGY” OFFERS INTIMATE INSIGHT INTO THE MIND OF ONE OF THE MOST WIDELY KNOWN CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS. ELIAS ALMAREZ-HERRERA Staff Writer

In the cold open of “act iii: AWAKENING,” the third episode of the Netflix documentary surrounding rapper Kanye West’s rise to fame, Ye converses with Chicago rapper Rhymefest about an argument they had engaged in off-camera.

The two sit in the studio after playing one of Ye’s demo tapes and discuss his self proclamation as a genius. Rhymefest explains his stance: “Who are you to call yourself a genius? It’s for other people to look at you and say ‘that man’s a genius.’ It take time, man.”

The year is 2002, long before Ye’s first solo smash single “Through the Wire” (2003) or his debut album “The College Dropout” (2004) would be released to mass critical and commercial acclaim.

Throughout the trilogy, Ye proves to be a living antithesis to the idea that external perspectives could shape the parameters of his creative genius.

With a runtime of over four hours, “jeenyuhs” is split into three episodic retellings of Ye’s come-up and the making of “The College Dropout.” Filmmaker Coodie Simmons Jr. is credited as the writer, director and cinematographer of the documentary.

He grew up in Chicago and began working as a stand up comedian in 1995 before becoming a correspondent for the publicaccess show “Channel Zero” throughout the late 1990s. The film largely takes on his

COURTESY OF NETFLIX

perspective, narrating his journey as a TV host turned documentarian as he develops a close working relationship with Kanye West, then known only as an in-demand producer in the hip-hop industry. “act i: VISION” introduces the limited exposure of Chicago-based emcees in years past. Ye developed his craft chopping up classic soul records and implementing crisp drums, a sound not commonly associated with hyper-masculine rap personas at the time. Even before the industry knew his name or respected his artwork, Ye had the ambition to represent his city as the next incoming entertainer. Coodie describes the faith he had in then 19-year-old Kanye West, a contributing factor urging him to document the countless hours Ye spent in the studio.

The common thread along the first years of his career is how quickly people counted out the Chicago native as a serious rapper. He played his first demo for “All Falls Down” (2004) in what Coodie describes as a “bumrush” of Def Jam Records to garner attention for Ye’s skills beyond producing. Not only are the label executives unimpressed with his work, the documentary displays more than one occurrence of resentment toward having a cameraman follow him around as well. To them, it seemed to be an uncalled for gesture rooted in narcissism. These experiences undoubtedly pushed Ye to advocate unabashedly for himself along every turn of his career.

Ye’s mother, Donda West, embedded confidence in him. She raised him largely on her own, providing stability and comfort well into his adulthood. Words can hardly describe the deep bond the two shared.

When his same ambitions were viewed as less than plausible to the world around him, Donda could offer words of encouragement and wisdom to ground him. Under her guidance, there was little he believed he would not accomplish. Her death marked a turning point between the “old Kanye” and the Ye of today.

Beyond the string of accolades that came with Ye’s eventual success, “jeen-yuhs” humanizes the man who would become the face of high fashion, rap and (for better or worse) the highs and lows of navigating mental health. From hustling in Chicago to becoming a worldwide public figure, Ye has the unique experience of his personal struggles making national headlines. His access to social media has initiated public discourse around his actions time and time again.

He embodies that multiple truths can exist simultaneously. While he deserves extensions of grace from the people who consume his art, the heavy trauma he experiences as a Black man cannot be the basis of justification for inflicting violence on others. Most recently, Ye has taken the legal procedures which will finalize a divorce from his wife, Kim Kardashian, and determine custody agreements over

his children to social media. As the events within his own life unfold and as Ye strives to continue breaking beyond every systemic barrier placed on Black creatives, there are crucial moments made prominent in the documentary where mental health should have taken precedence over his career.

The “grind ‘til you’ve got it” culture embedded into making dreams a reality in corporate America is both the reason Kanye has been able to create an empire for himself and the largest barrier holding him back from managing the disorders of his mind. To what extent is it his responsibility to manage the views other people have about him? How does a hyper-visible figure find balance in the dissonance of popularity? Only a creative genius could create conversation on such a scale. “jeenyuhs” acts as a reminder that the magnitude H of “Kanye West” can hardly be contained. ■

VERDICT:

“jeen-yuhs” in its entirety is more than worth tuning into. It serves as a time capsule for a time many of Ye’s fans were too young to fully experience for themselves and platforms the self-advocacy that comes with believing in your art.

10 TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

WINTER SOULSTICE 2022

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/features

winter s ul

makes an unpredict BRENDA JOVEL ASSISTANT FEATURES EDITOR The unexpected delay to in-person instruction at the beginning of winter quarter created a whirlwind of gloomy emotions for students across campus. Yet, UCR shined brightly once again the second ASPB announced their yearly Winter Soulstice, a smooth R&B concert that had an incredible lineup this year.

The event itself started in the early morning when many people woke up at the crack of dawn to get their hands on the wristbands that would permit their entry.

As expected, several students lined up hours before doors opened at 6 p.m. while ASPB members struggled to organize the lines that would enable check-in. At first it seemed like the members knew what to do, but as time slowly ticked to 5 o’clock, it was clear that there needed to be a bit more organization. Check-in was unfortunately delayed for a few minutes, but students were quick to scurry into the gated line that would soon lead them to an unforgettable night.

THUY thuy took the stage as the night’s first performer. Her unmatched attitude and soulful vocals introduced the audience to R&B melodies. The Bay Area artist took the opportunity to explain the significance of her songs, including “chances” which shows how some people give too many chances to those who don’t deserve it. Many audience members were thrilled once they heard the familiar tune and the venue was full of screams from practically everyone.

The “I love you’s” for the young artist seemed to brighten her happy mood that she gracefully displayed as the night went on. thuy’s eloquent songs were often challenged by audience sing-offs, which she was sure to monitor to keep the energy up. Her song, “vapor rub” allowed the audience to be involved in the singing of this passionate performance. Her final performance of “wanted” also allowed the audience to sing their hearts out before as the artist ended her performance with a bang.

JOSHUA WANG / THE HIGHLANDER

YEEK Yeek, an imaginative and genre-bending artist later took the stage. His name was chanted by audience members as the artist and his right-hand man, Kevin Halasan, set up. Yeek was very quick to engage with the audience, especially when his songs drove him to break out his very funky moves all over the stage. His performance was unfortunately interrupted at various times, but Yeek continued to communicate with the audience to lessen any anxiety over the brief emergency where a student needed medical aid.

Aside from the couple of technical difficulties, Yeek repeatedly livened the audience. His upbeat song “Shake” led him to encourage a mosh pit that caused a bit of disturbance for students who were near the front of the stage.

As Yeek jumped off the stage to sing closely to his beloved fans, several people were pushed towards the gate that separated the artist from his fans.

The sudden disturbance led ASPB members to repeatedly tell the audience to step back, yet there was barely any movement as the next performer was getting ready for their explosive performance.

LEO YUE / THE HIGHLANDER

ILLUSTRATIONS COURTESY OF VECTORIUM, FREEPIK, & SMASHICONS @FREEPIK

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/features

WINTER SOULSTICE 2022

lstice 2

TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

11

22

table return to UCR The long-awaited R&B event welcomed popular artists to our campus who transformed the night into an evening of dancing and singing.

THUNDERCAT

LEO YUE / THE HIGHLANDER

JOSHUA WANG / THE HIGHLANDER

The two time Grammy award winner’s name was chanted by the audience, welcoming his highly anticipated performance. As this year’s headliner, Thundercat illuminated the stage with his cheeky personality and smooth vocals. The second his fingers strummed the strings to his guitar, his facial expressions highlighted the passion that he felt for his music. The audience swayed to his rhythmic beats as he steadily calmed the entire ambiance of the venue.

Accompanied by keyboardist DOMi and drummer Justin Brown, the duo perfectly synced with Thundercat’s enigmatic vibe. Their quick beats made everyone bob their heads even as soft droplets of rain fell down. The unexpected invitation of drummer JD Beck hyped the audience up, especially when Beck displayed their outstanding drumming skills. The entire scene felt ethereal in a way as the lights cascaded over the artists.

Thundercat’s song “Overseas” welcomed the audience into a swoonworthy mood that could easily make anyone sway. His light voice and passion settled within the hearts of his fans who sang to his lyrics. His most well-known piece, “Funny Thing” ended the night vibrantly. His unmatched energy transferred into the audience who weren’t ready to say their goodbyes.

LEO YUE / THE HIGHLANDER

When asked about their overall experience, a student said “that the artists were really great at interacting with the audience” and how several “ASPB members were great at reacting and helping” the crowd once an emergency arose. As a senior, they felt that “it was the perfect way to let go and have fun right before the H stress of finals hit.” ■

VERDICT: Winter Soulstice 2022 certainly lived up to its heightened anticipation. Although there could have been more organization at the beginning of the event, the overall performances made everyone forget about the cold and enjoy a soothing experience with hypnotic artists.

12

Sports TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022

SPORTS

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/sports

UCR women’s basketball extends their winning streak to 6 with a win over Cal State Fullerton THE HIGHLANDERS SIT COMFORTABLY AT THE FOURTH SPOT IN THE BIG WEST CONFERENCE AFTER A THRILLING FINISH.

PATREACE ESPIRITU Contributing Writer

The Highlanders opened their doors to the Cal State Fullerton Titans on March 3, 2022 at the SRC arena. Ranked fourth in the Big West Conference, the women’s basketball team improved their conference record to 9-6 and 12-10 overall with their win against the Titans. Having defeated the eighth seed in the conference with a final score of 62-59, they maintained their momentum with an amazing six-game winning streak.

More than two hundred people occupied the stands as they waited in anticipation for the match-up to begin.

Starting off the night on a good note, senior guard Keilanie Cooper executed a clean jumper to score the first point of the game for the Highlanders. The first few minutes of the game proved to be tense as both teams battled for the next points,

but redshirt senior guard Olivia West effortlessly drew cheers from the crowd as she sank two back-to-back 3-pointers to put the home team up 8-2. They had an amazing run in the first quarter with the team leading by 17-8 with two minutes left on the clock and eventually for the whole game without a single lead change.

The home team was relentless in their offense and defense as they did not let the visiting team catch a break even in the second quarter. Junior guard Mele Finau shot an explosive 3 from downtown and widened their lead by 10 points, setting the score to 24-14 at the five-minute mark.

Cutting through the opponent’s defense, junior forward Anna Blount approaches the rim for a smooth layup that garnered applause from the bleachers. The Titans were down by as much as 16 points in the first half of the game, but the Highlanders retained their drive as they went into the second half of the game.

After leading by 14 points, the home team had a few setbacks during the third quarter but they did not allow those to slow them down. Freshman forward Esther Matarranz did not let anyone stop her as she carried out two jumpers within a minute, preserving the score in their favor at 41-26. The Titans found their footing as they eventually outscored the Highlanders by 10 points in the quarter, but not enough to lead the game. The home team struggled as the visiting team managed to cut the lead, but a quick layup

by Blount secured their score at 46 points apiece. The Titans had a 10-0 run in the last three minutes of the quarter, but the Highlanders’ competitive spirit didn’t diminish as they ended the quarter.

The final quarter of the game began with the scoreboard at 46-42, still in favor of the home team. The tension could be felt throughout the arena as the visiting team slowly caught up, managing to chip

COURTESY OF UCR ATHLETICS

the lead to a 2-point difference. Cooper performed her signature jumper with six minutes left, scoring her last point of the game and ended the night with an incredible 16 points under her name. The Titans relentlessly chased after the lead, but the Highlanders were unstoppable as they responded with the same intensity.

As Blount stepped on the paint during the final seconds of the game, she secured the win for the Highlanders with two free throws and ended the game with a score of 62-59.

The Highlanders went on to play and win against the Long Beach State women’s basketball team on Saturday, Mar. 5, earning a tight 66-61 victory.

UCR ended the season in fourth place, taking the number 4 seed in the Big West Conference PostSeason Tournament in Las Vegas. Their first game will be H Wednesday Mar. 9, Go Highlanders. ■

UC Riverside’s men’s basketball team sweeps season series against Cal State Fullerton with a thrilling finish

TONIGHT’S WIN SETS THE SCHOOL RECORD FOR THE MOST BIG WEST CONFERENCE WINS IN A SINGLE SEASON.

HANSEL CHU Assistant Sports Editor

The UC Riverside men’s basketball team defeated Cal State Fullerton in a thrilling 75-72 win. The Highlanders already defeated the Titans at home earlier this year with a 13-point victory. With the Big West Conference playoffs occurring in a week, this was a crucial game for both UCR and CSUF. Both teams went back and forth throughout the game, but the Highlanders were able to pull through at the end. This win set a school record for the most single season wins in Big West Conference play.

Redshirt junior Flynn Cameron came out on fire to open the game as he hit three straight 3-pointers to give UC Riverside an early 13-11 lead.

Senior guard Daniel Mading also contributed to the early 3-point shooting for the Highlanders as he hit a triple to give UCR a 16-13 lead right around the halfway point of the first half.

However, a 9-0 run from Cal State Fullerton gave them a 19-24 lead with 7:43 left until the half. Sophomore guard Wil

Tattersal responded by scoring 9 straight points for UC Riverside to tie the score at 28-28. On the next possession, Cameron hit his fourth 3-pointer of the half to give the Highlanders the lead once again at 31-28 with less than four minutes left in the first half. Both teams continued to exchange leads as neither team seemed to control the lead.

With 28 seconds left on the clock, freshman center Jaylon Martinez scored a layup assisted by graduate student Dominick Pickett to tie the score at 36-36 going into the locker room. At the half, UCR shot a blistering 60.9% from the field and connected on 7-12 3-pointers.

In the second half, both teams continued to go back and forth as they continued to exchange leads. With under 14 minutes left in the game, a quick 11-2 run gave the Highlanders a controlling 55-46 lead. Junior guard Zyon Pullin started to dominate the game as he hit timely shots and set up teammates for open looks. A 3-pointer from Pickett assisted

by Pullin gave UC Riverside its first double digit lead of the game, 60-48, with 10:56

left in the game. With the shot clock winding down, a corner 3-pointer from Pullin gave the Highlanders a 65-56 lead, and a midrange pull-up jumper from Pullin gave UCR their largest lead of the game at 11 points, 67-56, with 5:48 left in the ball game.

In what seemed like a game where UC Riverside had control of the game, Cal State Fullerton would not give up and battled back down the stretch. A layup and the foul from forward Tray Maddox Jr. brought the Titans deficit to 6 points, 70-64. With less than 90 seconds remaining, another layup plus the foul from guard Damari Milstead brought the deficit to 5, 74-69. A 3-point miss from Cameron led to a transition triple from Milstead and closed the Highlander lead to only 2, 74-72, with 48 seconds left on the clock. With a chance to ice the game, Pullin’s midrange jumper was no good, which gave Cal State Fullerton a chance to tie or take the lead. A corner 3-pointer from Milstead was slightly off, and after a fight for the basketball, guard Jalen Harris missed on a point-blank

COURTESY OF UCR ATHLETICS

floater, which sent Pickett to the free-throw line. However, Pickett only sank one of two free-throws, which gave the Titans one more chance to tie the game. A halfcourt heave from Milstead was well short and gave the Highlanders a thrilling win 75-72.

Pullin led the Highlanders with 15 points, six rebounds, and eight assists. Tattersal also contributed with 15 points, which included three 3-pointers.

Cameron chipped in with 14 points, which included four 3-pointers.

The Highlanders jump to third overall in the Big West Conference standings and improve their record to 1610 (9-5). They will head to the Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nevada next week for the Big West Conference tournament for a chance to get a H bid to March Madness. ■