Vol. 71, Issue 22

The Highlander

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE

For the week of Tuesday, April 18, 2023

VOL. 71, ISSUE 22

est. 1954

Elections Guide

ABHIJIT REGE News Editor

Learn more about how to vote and who your candidates are.

Where do I vote?

Are there prizes for voting?

What positions are up for election?

► SEE ELECTIONS PAGE 4

RADAR

THE UNIQUE SOUNDSCAPE CREATED BY BRIDGERS, DACUS AND BAKER CARRIES THE PROJECT TO GREAT SUCCESS, WITH STEWART’S FILM BEING A WELCOME GIFT TO LONGTIME DEVOTEES.

Boygenius’ debut album finally comes to fruition — ‘the record’ is a hit MAX BRIGGS Staff Writer

Boygenius is finally back with a debut LP, “the record,” released on March 31. The American indie supergroup consists of Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker, all of whom are successful solo artists with passionate fanbases. Following the release of their self-titled debut EP “boygenius,” supporters of each musician were delighted to see the collaboration of the three individuals’ strengths, as well as witness the forming of a new collective in the process.

The theme of togetherness is key in “the record” since the trio’s chemistry on display maintains a similar, palpable sense of interconnectedness, perhaps best displayed within the final minute of the track “$20.”

The omnipresent, ethereal nature of each song often juxtaposes itself diametrically with creeping waves of darkness — a testament to the songwriting talent all three possess.

Baker’s rough vocals especially serve as a raw gateway to Dacus’ heart-wrenching tenderness. Bridgers channels her trademark melancholic tone throughout, providing a bridge that guides the transitioning of the

project’s many tones with grace. The multiple mood shifts and pacing mirror the constant range of emotions that arise on a first listen.

An apex point of “the record” in terms of palpability must be awarded to the bridge on “Not Strong Enough,” which consists of one repeated lyric in particular: “Always an angel / never a god”. This hymn-like, angelic chorus functions as both a catharsis and a transition, with this mutually exclusive employment only further deepening the connection between each song.

Despite the group’s lovely, gentle meshing of their respective styles, equal emphasis ► SEE BOYGENIUS PAGE 15

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NEWS 3

OPINIONS 5

FEATURES 8

RADAR 11

SPORTS 14

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UPCOMING EVENTS:

18

Tuesday Talk - Queer Neurodivergence 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

245 Costo Hall

19

ARC Mindful Study Sessions 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

156 Skye Hall

Free Vegan Food Fair 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

SRC MAC Gym

April Showers Bring May Flowers 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

HUB 269

TFDP Film Festival 7 p.m.

University Theater

Tuesday

Wednesday

20

Thursday

21

Baseball at California Baptist 6 p.m.

California Baptist University

22

Riverside Insect Fair 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Riverside Main Library

23

Softball vs. CSUN 1 p.m.

Amy S. Harrison Field

24

Free Self-Defense Basic Class 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

SRC MPR B

Friday

Saturday

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Sunday

HIGHLANDER STAFF

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NEWS

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NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

3

A $3.8 Million grant to support student-parents has been received MATA ELANGOVAN Staff Writer

In a joint effort by the University of California, Riverside’s Early Childhood Services (ECS) and their Women’s Resource Center (WRC), a $3.8 million grant was received through the Child Care Access Means Parents in School Program (CCAMPIS), in order to help assist student-parents attending the school. UCR has been awarded the CCAMPIS grant 2 times prior to this, once in 2014, and once again in 2018. The grant is planned to be distributed over the course of the next four years, beginning in 2022-2023 and ending in 2026.

ECS is a program that provides care for children, from infancy up until 5 years old, as well as having a private kindergarten program. They provide this service for students attending campus, faculty, as well as the general community, and operate 14 classrooms, with a little over 200 children split between both centers. On top of that they also host training and workshops to offer support to parents outside of childcare, refer them to sources if need be, as well as supporting the parents themselves as they balance attending school while also raising a child.

The WRC is a part of the Ethnic and Gender Centers in Costo Hall at UCR. They, as a program, provide support to student parents, women’s health, advocate for gender equity, as well as many other things. Overall, they aim to “build community and support people in practicing self-care as well” as noted by the Director of the WRC, Nina Ruedas. The WRC works with other campus organizations such as R’Kids and the ECS to secure funds, advocate for utilities, and organize events and garner basic needs and support for student-parents.

According to the Director of the ECS, Dr. Davina M. Bailey, a majority of the grant is going to ensure that student-parents have access to quality childcare, so that they can “have a safe space for their children to be at while they’re in school. So as long as they meet the eligibility criteria, which really is just a matter of being eligible for Pell Grant, they are eligible for the program, and that the program is totally free. THe goal of this is to help with retention and to ensure that student-parents are graduating, and to increase those graduation rates over time.”

Additionally, she mentions that while there is a waitlist for the program, there are specific allocated spaces for subsidized care, and that up to 24 kids, depending on the program, will be guaranteed a space. They also receive other grants from both the state and federal level that help subsidize additional spots, and make it so that the cost of care is covered for.

The CCAMPIS grant allows ECS, as a nationally accredited program, to provide quality care to the community. Bailey states that “between the ages of zero to three, 90% of the brain is developed, and it’s important to ensure that children have quality experiences because it impacts their future development. It helps set the foundation for

future development and successes, so it is important that they are getting quality care from seasoned educators.

The WRC is planning on starting a committee where they work with other departments that also assist student-parents in order to have a greater impact overall.

Ruedas states that by making it a “more collaborative effort, wecan better figure out how to spend the funding in order to have a greater impact, because not all parents at UCR come through the WRC for assistance.”

They are also planning on hosting many events. Some at Oban, the school’s family housing option, where they create activities for the kids, and work together with basic needs to provide essentials that can help families. As well as working to have a family graduation when funds are secured. Thy are also aiming to host a conference sometime in August, where they hope to collaborate with the school’s School of Medicine, where they bring in speakers specializing in pediatrics and psychiatry to bring people across the campus together and create a community for them to create connections with each other and learn more about resources and organizations in the Inland Empire.

Anna Martinez, the student-parent representative at the WRC also recalls her own experience advocating for resources, with “R’Kids being a student-parent organization that is created by the students at UCR to create advocacy for other student-parents by helping them find their voice to seek resources. Because sometimes even though resources are there at times, they feel as if they are just out of reach. We also use funds for events like Family Love, where the goal is to just gather the community in order to meet one another and network. It was actually through UCR where I met my first student-parents and I was able to network and grow that community because I truly thought I was alone” It was through R’Kids that parents were able to advocate for spaces around school like the lactation rooms that are available throughout the campus, as well as stalls in restrooms that have stations to change diapers for children. And while the change has been occurring slowly, the goal is to use part of the funding to advocate for resources H like this in order to help make the campus more accommodating to student-parents.■

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NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/category/features

Elections Guide

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW TO VOTE AND WHO YOUR CANDIDATES ARE Here are your Candidates!

ABHIJIT REGE News Editor

Change/The/Game

Change/The/Game

Cooper James Proulx

Hello, Highlanders! My name is Cooper Proulx, and I am running to be your next President.

This year, Highlanders have worked hard to revive our campus reputation and spirit. It is important to keep pushing forward to establish UCR as a role model for institutions everywhere.

As President, I will continue to work with campus partners to ensure student needs are met and that our voices are heard. With your support, I will work to bring transportation solutions to campus, bring more funding and opportunities to student organizations, and partner with local businesses to address key issues such as food and housing insecurity. From serving as the President’s Chief of Staff, I know what is needed for a successful student government. I will utilize funding to bring new resources to campus such as affordable vehicle rentals, food delivery, and pharmaceutical resources. I will never stop fighting for YOU. Go Highlanders!

Integrity/Service/Empowerment

Ankita Ahluwalia

Hello Highlanders! My name is Ankita Ahluwalia and I’m running to serve as your next President. As President, I will ensure our offices are working cohesively to empower, serve, and foster an inclusive and productive environment to drive impactful change. To address pertinent educational inequities, I founded POWAN Initiative, a nonprofit empowering our Inland Empire students and teachers with accessible e-learning solutions and after-school programs. As the co-founder of UCR’s Lead’R Lab program in the UCR Library, I mentor our incredible UCR student innovators and connect them to research opportunities and programs. As Personnel Director, I oversaw various teams and ensured accountability within ASUCR via a fair hiring/onboarding process, mandated reporting, and increased collaborations with various UCR organizations/ centers. If I’m given the opportunity and honor to serve as President, I will continue to ensure student concerns are addressed and that all students’ voices are seen, heard, and valued!

Representing/All/Students

Hey Highlanders! My name is Jules Yang and I am running to be your next ASUCR President!

In the past year as a member of our student body, I had the pleasure of serving as a CHASS Senator and one of your campus leaders in Student Life. I have seen firsthand the issues that we as a community have been facing. As President, I want to focus on hearing your needs as a student body in order to properly represent you. I want to help students understand and be more involved on our campus and foster better relations between our different departments on campus. I want to advocate for our student organizations in order to create more initiatives that will be beneficial to our student body’s needs to ensure that all students can succeed. With your support, I promise to uphold the reputation of ASUCR and the expectations of the student body.

How will the voting process work?

Apr. 17 – Apr. 21: Voting Week (may be extended)

Jules Yang

Everyone will be provided with their own ballot through their R’mail Choose which candidates you feel will fill their role best. We urge that you make an informed decision utilizing the Highlander’s elections guides and coverage of elections related events. *Note that you could only open the ballot once during last year’s election as it would close with any subsequent attempts. Therefore, make sure to complete the ballot in your first run.

Legislation passed last year required candidates to obtain a simple 50% majority in order to attain their position, even if they are running unopposed.

Polling can be done online or in-person with multiple polling locations.

These locations will be:

Bridge/The/Gap

Victoria Nguyen

BRIDGE THE GAP! Hello Highlanders! My name is Victoria Nguyen and I am running to be your Executive Vice President. I am a third year business major with a minor in law and society. In the past two years, it has been an honor to serve as your CHASS Senator and First Time College Student Director. In these roles, I have been able to “bridge the gap” between students and many aspects of our campus such as resources, administrators, and most importantly, other students. I will strive to bridge the gaps on our campus by ensuring that student voices are heard loudly and clearly. With your support, I will expand the transparency from administration, basic needs resources, and the opportunity for all Highlanders to be empowered. I pledge to have student interests be at the forefront of decision making. It is time for students to be supported and heard!

Communication/Creates/Change

Pierce Lawn (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

Rivera Library (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)

Why is Voting Important?

Jasmine Nguyen

Elected officials will have an effect on where funds are directed to.

Elected officials will have effect over programs offered in the University.

Elected officials do receive stipends off students’ tuition.

Elected officials represent their specific colleges you may be a part of.

Empowering/R’/Voices I have served in ASUCR Office of External Affairs for three years and have served in various capacities including: First Year Fellow, Chief of Staff, and Government Relations Director.

Throughout my roles, I was responsible for overseeing daily operations of the VPEA office, managing staff, and coordinating with others to ensure effectiveness and transparency.As Government Relations Director, and as First Year Fellow, I represent Highlanders in local, state, and federal government. I advocate for funding increases for UCR, including menstrual/disability services budget asks and bills that make higher education more accessible. I advocated and secured a $500 increase to the federal Pell Grant and the creation of the CA Middle Class Scholarship. As VPEA, I will establish relationships with legislators, increase campus civic engagement, accurately represent UCR within the UC Student Association, and actively empower grassroots organizing efforts to achieve meaningful change at UCR and across the UC.

Elected officials have control over future events offered by ASUCR. Elected officials represent the entirety of UCR. At the end of ballot, a voter will be asked what location they chose to

Hello Highlanders! My name is Jasmine Nguyen, and I am running to be your next Executive Vice President! In the past year, I served as the International Student Director and saw the firsthand power of connection. My office prioritized amplifying the welfare of students by providing resources and a space to build our Highlander community. In order to better our student body government, we must start by understanding the needs of our students. They want more accessibility in the student body government, and we must be the change. As Executive Vice President, I am passionate about increasing communication outreach that represents the diverse needs of you, our students! Together we can create a campus that involves us all.

Angel Marcel Renteria

Incentives:

Bolster/Students/Affairs Hello Highlanders! My name is David Kiroloss and I am running to be your next Vice President of Internal Affairs. During my time as a senate intern and senator for BCOE, I have successfully spearheaded the coordination of COVID-19 Supply Distributions, advocated for Academic Accommodations, and advanced efforts for Basic Needs development. The focus of Internal Affairs is to present student concerns to Administration and develop solutions to these issues, making it the most Vital Office in our student government. I will Bolster Student Affairs by reinforcing current developments in Basic Needs, reinstating the Mental Health Committee, expanding efforts for increased Academic Resources, coordinating with student leaders to Identify Concerns, and advocating to enhance Student Quality of Life at our campus. Internal Affairs begins here, at home, by placing R’Students first and foremost! I am confident in my abilities and as Vice President, students will be R’Priority.

Many prizes and food will be available at these polling sites.

Hundreds of items will be given away, with the number reducing each day David Kiroloss

A separate line will be available for prizes Food Incentives will be as follows: Monday: Bundt Cake Tuesday: Tacos and Water (Vegetarian Burritos available as well) Wednesday: Jamba Juice or gift cards Thursday: Raising Canes Friday: Coffee & Donuts

Accesibility/For/All Hello Highlanders! My name is Ruhi Barman and I am running to be your next Vice President of Internal Affairs. As a former Senate Intern, Executive Fellow, and current Senator, I have consistently advocated for student health, safety, and well-being. I have successfully collaborated with a variety of offices in ASUCR including the current Internal Affairs office, programs such as CARE, SHS, and The Well, and at the administrative level to kickstart projects like It’s On Us and re-ignite existing ones like menstrual equity. Given the opportunity, I intend to continue rallying for better access to academic, professional, physical and mental health resources. I strongly believe that involving a diverse array of students is imperative in effectively addressing all Highlanders’ concerns. So, I will strive to cultivate an open space for every student to have their voice heard. Together, we can work towards “Access for All.”

Ruhi Barman Advocacy/Transparency/Unity Hello Highlanders! For the past two years under the External Affairs office, I have continuously championed for our student body. By working alongside Ethnic and Gender Programs, I advocated for equitably distributed funding that fosters more opportunities for the student body.

Additionally, I have lobbied bills and budget asks for menstrual products and disability justice with state representatives. Going forward as VP of Internal Affairs, I am confident in my ability to amplify student voices by uplifting marginalized groups, and establishing better systems for mental health and academic welfare through administrative change. I will fight for accessible and affordable resources as well as basic needs for students of all identities to bolster the wellbeing of our community. So, I ask you to join me in creating a brighter future for UC Riverside.

My name is Abinaya Perumal, and I hope to be your next Vice President of Internal Affairs.

H

Abinaya Perumal

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THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/news

NEWS

TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

New Marketing and Promotions Director

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HARU CHANG Assistant News Editor

The first Senate Meeting of spring quarter was called to order at 7:13pm. A total of 10 senators were present, while CHASS Senator Alaa Mido, CHASS Senator Ahman Greene, CHASS Senator Andrew Bui, CHASS Senator Huang, CNAS Senator Abby Choy, CNAS Senator Kyle Cheng, CNAS Senator Brenden Cano, and BCOE Senator Chloe Au were excused from the meeting. After approving the meeting minutes from winter quarter, Director of Finance Faraaz Hasta approached the podium during the Public Forum. Hasta encouraged ASUCR to be End Overdose certified, strongly suggesting that the senate participate in opioid prevention training. SPP Senator Sean Nguyen and PPT Aalani Richardson offered their support and connections.

Chief Justice Arias announced that Law Week will be hosted the coming week where there would be resources for pre law programs. A new secretary of the court was hired for Judicial after the previous secretary resigned. Violations for elections have been noticed and Arias encouraged candidates to reread the elections code. The Chief Justice reminded the senate to remain civil and treat each other with kindness and respect. VP of Sustainability Martinez encouraged the senate to participate in Earth Week.

The 2 referendums passed last quarter have not been approved on the university level due to the time of submission. According to Brendan O’Brien, the Assistant Dean of Students and Director, there was not enough time to process the referendums and it required revisions. The referendum was reported to not have enough information for administration to justify the increased student fees. The referendum will have to be submitted again latest at the end of Fall quarter, which would give enough time for the processes to take effect. Sen. Choy entered the meeting at 7:26pm.

The senate held the special elections for the Marketing Promotions position during New Business. There were a total of 11 candidates however, five were not present.

Each candidate was allotted 3 minutes to present their case and Senators had another 3 minutes to ask questions.

Kaila’s experience ranged from marketing for a boba shop to organizing for a Youth Congress. Kaila hoped to promote ASUCR values, while giving ASUCR a “classy sleek look.” The candidate prioritized transparency. Katelyn, a first year fellow for the marketing office, saw a common issue that made it difficult for ASUCR to gain public traction: students being confused between the events hosted by ASUCR and ASPB. In order to address this issue, Katelyn suggested linking the event to senators and hosting more regular tabling engagements. Katelyn suggested hosting more giveaways and having ECAB members be available to host interviews during tabling events in order to increase tabling engagement. Katelyn has experience in theater marketing, marketing

for women’s rights organizations, and marketing for her sorority. Uthinh noticed the lack of attendance in tabling and offered more flexibility in coordination through proper communication and delegation of work. Amanda, a previous Highlander Orientation leader, suggested more consistent tabling events as a way of helping students to get to know their senators. Amanda offered google sheets as a useful tool to keep track of each senator’s availability. Ashley, who has had non-academic marketing experience, also wanted to ensure that senators are fairly contacted and duly informed by organizing a google calendar. David, a previous senator, noted that during tabling engagements, staff were not proactively flyering.

Through more proactive marketing during tabling engagements, David hoped to increase awareness of ASUCR. In order to address issues where senators have not been reliable to table, David prioritized accomplishing tabling engagement by delegating the work to marketing staff to substitute for senators that do not show for tabling engagements. David also suggested creating an open discord channel for students to have more direct access to ASUCR senators. At 8:29 PM, ASUCR held a closed voting session and voted for Ktelyn Nguyen as the new Marketing and Promotions Director.

During Committee Reports Green Grant #28, Green Grant #30, and Green Grant #32 were passed 10-0-0. The Finance Hearing followed soon after.

Motion to open Finance Budget Hearing #1 was approved. Cooper discussed the delegation of funding for student organizations, however it was quickly noted that the hearing minutes did not align with the date. The senate Secretary stated that the hearing minutes that was linked was what was submitted by the VP of Finance Martinez two days ago on April 10. EVP reiterated that what was added on the agenda was what was submitted through email 48 hours in advance. The Hearing minutes #2 was edited over the same document as the Hearing minutes that were submitted on April 10. EVP moved to revert the document to the latest version of the submission date back to April 10 to be approved and the motion passed 10-0-0. The complications with the hearing minutes delayed some funding distribution.

H The meeting was adjourned at 9:14 pm. ■

IRENE TU / THE HIGHLANDER

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TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

NEWS

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/category/news

Controlling large vehicle emissions HARU CHANG Assistant Features Editor

A new referee program, led by UC Riverside environmental engineers, will provide testing services that will ensure vehicles are properly tested and maintained. Under an agreement with the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) regulations, the program will enable the identification of vehicles with broken emissions control systems, which would allow those vehicles to be repaired promptly.

UCR’s College of Engineering Center of Environmental Research and Technology, or CECERT, will run the state referee program for heavyduty trucks. This spring, two testing sites are expected to open and in the next few years, UCR will be working to expand the program throughout California

UCR’S COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING TAKES ON A NEW REFEREE PROGRAM, MOVING TOWARDS A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE. in order to ensure statewide coverage. California State University Fresno is expected to partner with UCR, conducting tests in the San Joaquin Valley. UCR will be hiring three or four testers with engineering skills.

They expect to be expanding the staff as the program continues to grow. This program also offers CE-CERT valuable hands-on experience.

The referee program is potentially a large step to controlling emissions from large vehicles and moving towards a more sustainable method of transportation.

It will be tackling a major component of California’s fine particle pollution and compounds that have been affecting the environment. Vehicle emissions have been a large component to air pollution. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, as much as

95 percent of all carbon monoxide emissions in cities may come from motor vehicle exhausts. Communities living close to high traffic of air pollutants like freeways are more vulnerable to numerous health complications.

CARB’s Heavy Duty Inspection And Maintenance program is expected to significantly reduce air pollution emitted from large vehicles. The program is expected to improve the state’s air quality, address public health concerns, and help meet the state and H federal health standards. ■

MATA ELANGOVAN / THE HIGHLANDER

Opinions

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OPINIONS

TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

7

THE HIGHLANDER EDITORIAL

Twitter’s CEO reaches a new low attacking unbiased media Elon Musk is continuing to flex the social media power that he holds through his acquisition, and domination, of the Twitter platform. The credibility of news organizations that do not uphold his extreme ideals are under attack again and are now being labeled as “US state-affiliated media” or “governmentfunded media” if they receive any form of government grants.

This time, the National Public Radio is the subject of Musk’s attack and new labeling feature, despite only receiving 1% of their funding from the government. This tactic by Musk is just another way that he is asserting his control to silence true journalism and suppress the truth.

Twitter being run by Musk is harmful to journalism and media as a whole. Censorship and freedom of speech are being spun by him and the platform to spread hate and other problematic rhetoric. The initial program allowing anyone to be verified is disrespectful to journalists who have studied and followed rules to present truthful and unbiased information. Since the transfer of Twitter, it appears that Musk has made it a priority to ruin the credibility of news sites, such as NPR. The labeling feature is being used to alter the positive perception that is generally associated with NPR. Other public news sites that also receive government funding are not being met with such harsh criticism from Musk. The British Broadcasting Corporation was also labeled as “government-funded media” on its Twitter account, but it has now been updated to read “publicly funded media” instead. NPR still has editorial control of the content they publish although they receive this minimal funding. Musk clarified in a mocking way that the platform, “assiduously maintains editorial independence.”

NPR is a staple news organization that has loyal listeners

and readers who will most likely not cause this label to deter them from following it. Individuals who are already consumed in extremist and right-wing propaganda, however, will use the label to further their agendas. Not everything promoted

by Musk or shared on Twitter “as news” is necessarily true or unbiased. It is important for true news sites to continue paving the way and creating content for these platforms to get ahead of misinformation and engage younger audiences before they become susceptible to the fake news being spread.

Since this new label debuted on Twitter, NPR, and several other news organizations including PBS, have made statements that they will no longer be using the platform in solidarity of this attack on the media. NPR said it was suspending all activity on Twitter citing the social network’s “actions that undermine our credibility by falsely implying that we are not editorially independent.” During the past few years, Twitter was previously used by the public as a source for credible news. With other news sites no longer using the platform, Musk’s false news will run rampant.

Through this controversy, NPR has changed their website several times to reword how they receive their government aid to not appear like they are being influenced by the money. Despite these inconsistencies, they should not be attacked in the way that they currently are. This attack is not just on NPR, but on all creditable media and journalists. Musk’s influence is harmful H and his reign over Twitter will be the downfall of the platform. ■

THE NEW LABELING FEATURE ON TWITTER IS BEING USED TO ATTACK PUBLIC MEDIA SITES THAT RECEIVE GOVERNMENT AID. 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.

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OPINIONS

TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

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California finally stands up to big oil AYLIN MORENO Contributing Writer

Governor Gavin Newsom introduced a bill on March 28 that aims to protect gasoline consumers without compromising the environmental promise to end state reliance on fossil fuels. The bill, authored by Sen. Nancy Skinner, and co-sponsored by Attorney General Rob Bonta, was thoroughly debated. The compromise would allow the California Energy Commission to take on responsibilities regarding the imposition of civil penalties on oil companies for their alleged price gouging. The Oil industry has time and time again used their funds in order to assure their profits. This bill is a battle win amidst a political war that has gone on for decades.

Gas prices have risen substantially in the past year.

According to a fact sheet from the Governor’s office, California gasoline prices were up to $2.61 higher than the national average. Several areas of California were seeing $6.42 per gallon and some reports even stated prices as high as $8.00. It is no surprise that California is in dire need of gas price regulation, but how the state should go about it is still up for debate.

The aim of this bill is not to automatically penalize, but to acquire pricing information from oil companies.

A new state agency composed of five people, chosen and approved by the Governor and the State Senate, will be able to monitor the petroleum market and subpoena oil executives. The information they gather will be investigated by both the new state agency and

a panel of experts in order to determine whether or not oil companies are gouging prices and harming consumers. This kind of regulation on oil is long overdue and with this type of monitoring, California residents are more likely to be protected from overcharge.

It’s possible the prospect of transparency will be enough motivation for these companies to cease taking advantage of California customers. “If we force folks to turn over this information, I actually don’t believe we’ll ever need a penalty because the fact that they have to tell us what’s going on will stop them from gouging our consumers,” said Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan.

Republican Sen. Kelly Seyarto has suggested that the energy policy is what needs to be revised. The previous Thursday, Republicans pushed to suspend gas regulations and taxes for a year; however, the Democrats voted not to bring the Republican’s bill up for debate.

The California Reformulated Gasoline Standard, CaRFG, regulates the gasoline allowed to be sold within the state. It dictates that California gas is made into a specific blend in order to minimize carcinogenic fumes and reduce smog forming emissions. The CaRFG is an important environmental and health regulatory policy – dismantling it would be irresponsible and tactless.

Kevin Slagle, a spokesman for Western States Petroleum Association indicated that the real issue is the existing regulations that encumber fuel supply.

There are also concerns that lawmakers rushed the bill through the Legislature and there is resentment for not allowing the oil industry more input. Regardless of these oppositions, the industry continues to lobby lawmakers. During the 2021-2022 legislative session alone, the Western States Petroleum Association spent $11.7 million on lobbying efforts. They have also contributed millions of dollars to various campaigns for both Democrats and Republicans. While oil companies continue to depict themselves as the victims of slander by the state government– there is no absence of influence by the oil industry in California politics.

Newsom told reporters, “When you take on big oil, they usually roll you -- that’s exactly what they’ve been doing to consumers for years and years and years,” and, “The Legislature had the courage, conviction and the backbone to stand up to big oil.”

The oil industry has consistently been a looming shadow on the California government. This bill is but a small win in the ongoing battle against lobbying H industries that sway legislative processes for profit.■

Justice Clarence Thomas disrespects Supreme Court through major ethics violation SENNA OMAR Assistant Features Editor

The Supreme Court is supposed to be the highest, most impartial court system in the United States.

Justices are appointed for life to prevent their decisions from being swayed by the court of public opinion. These justices are also supposed to adhere to a code of conduct that prohibits even the “appearance of impropriety.” For over two decades, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has accepted free luxury vacations from Republican mega-donor and real estate mogul Harlan Crow, failing to report any of these trips on financial disclosure forms. By disregarding the ethics codes of the Supreme Court, Thomas has betrayed the American people’s trust in not only himself but the entire Supreme Court.

Justice Thomas is no stranger to ethical dilemmas, even failing to recuse himself in a 2020 case involving his wife’s efforts to overturn the Capitol during the January 6 insurrection. Although Crow and Thomas claim to be close friends, most ethics experts agree that the law clearly states these private jet flights and

yacht charters must be disclosed. In fact, Justices are required to report any gifts of value surpassing more than $400. If Clarence Thomas had paid for any of these trips, the bill would be upwards of $50,000 per trip, well exceeding the required disclosure cost.

Despite what he may say, it is clear that Harlan Crow had more than friendship on his mind during these luxury vacations. Through these trips, Crow subjected Justice Thomas to the lobbying efforts of anyone he chose to invite, frequently inviting along political “activists” and corporate moguls. Crow has spent millions of dollars as a major Republican donor, even going as far as to classify Marxism as his greatest fear. As a longtime financial backer of the Federalist Society, Crow’s lobbying efforts concentrate on moving the judiciary to the right.

Crow even stated, “We believe it is important to make sure as many people as possible learn about him, remember him and understand the ideals for which he stands,” in reference to Thomas after he and his wife

commissioned several projects in the Justices honor.

In the summer of 2019, Clarence Thomas, alongside several other guests, flew to Indonesia on Harlan Crow’s private jet. Also on this trip was Donald Trump’s general console for the office of Management and Budget administration, Mark Paoletta. Despite his long term friendship with both Thomas and Crow, Paoletta, bound by the ethics of his office, unlike Thomas, not only disclosed the trip but also reimbursed Harlan for the whole trip.

It is unclear how many undisclosed gifts Clarence Thomas has accepted from the Republican megadonor. One thing is for certain; this ethical violation is enough grounds for Thomas’ impeachment from the court system he appears to have little respect for. The government is supposed to act with the people’s will, but Clarence Thomas is working for his own personal gain, blatantly disrespecting the American People’s trust. ■ H

COURTESY OF U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE VIA FLICKR

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TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

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UC, It’s time to adopt Transfer Admission Guarantees system-wide GOV. GAVIN NEWSOM’S PROPOSED BUDGET REQUIRES UCLA TO ADOPT TAG AND ADDRESS INEQUALITY IN UC’S ULTRA-COMPETITIVE INSTITUTIONS. CECILE DIROLL Contributing Writer

In California’s latest budget proposal, Governor Gavin Newsom called for UCLA to join the University of California Transfer Admission Guarantee, TAG, program or risk losing $20 million in ongoing state funding. TAG currently guarantees admission to six UC campuses for California community college transfer students if they meet specific academic requirements. However, the most competitive UC institutions—UCLA, UC Berkeley, and UC San Diego—are not a part of the program. Governor Newsom says the plan would “simplify the transfer process” and increase slots for California students, creating a more direct California community college transfer stream to the UCs. The UC system should adopt TAG systemwide and increase equity for California students to access higher education in UC’s most competitive universities.

The transfer process is complex as community college students must choose between an Associate Degree for Transfer, ADT, at the California State Universities or TAG at the UC campuses. UC leadership also noted that singling UCLA out is unfair as the campus could face severe financial repercussions for failing to meet requirements not imposed on other UC campuses.

Because of the complex and convoluted nature of the current transfer process, TAG should be implemented at all UC institutions. By clarifying

the academic requirements of necessary lowerdivision courses, earning a minimum GPA, and major qualifications, TAG simplifies the process for both UC campuses and students. Like CSU’s systemwide ADT — a guaranteed transfer plan for all CSU campuses — TAG establishes a single, clear, and understandable transfer system for community college students while increasing equality and access to UC’s most competitive campuses.

UCLA does have a good track record of enrolling transfer students. In 2022-23, UCLA reported it enrolled 3,300 transfer students and 74% of transfers graduated within three years—which is comparatively better than the 63% systemwide. However, with nearly half of admitted transfer students coming from wealthy community colleges such as Pasadena City College and Santa Monica College, the UCs are not equitably serving all California transfer students.

According to California Community Colleges reports, 46% of students are Latino, 35% are firstgeneration, and 64% are low-income, particularly in the Central Valley and Inland Empire. Many underrepresented and underserved students choose a community college path to higher education due to greater financial accessibility. By implementing TAG, under-resourced transfer students who take an alternative path could have an equal opportunity to attend any UC campus.

Concerns about the issue of overcrowding UCLA’s campus — a relatively congested area in Westwood—are also being raised by opponents.

However, employing TAG at UCLA would not change the number of enrolled applicants but rather widen the community college applicant pool. Transfer requirements and qualifications to UCLA would remain highly competitive with admitted students possessing a 3.9 median GPA for acceptance.

Moreover, UCLA recently purchased $80 million worth of new property, allowing them to expand their student body.

In the past, UC has generally guarded its academic and administrative freedom—even against the legislature—to ensure politics doesn’t interfere with its mission. Still, California residents pay tax dollars to fund UC campuses, and the state legislature and Governor allocate public funds towards the system. In return, the University of California educates California students.

With fewer California students being admitted to UC campuses and an unnecessarily overly complex transfer application process, UC is not equitably serving all California students. TAG would guarantee an alternative and straightforward pathway to higher education at UC campuses while increasing equity and fairness in the application process for all California H transfer students. ■

Los Angeles faces a motion to decrease the jail population THE LA COUNTY BOARD IS FACED WITH A MOTION DECLARING COUNTY JAILS A HUMANITARIAN CRISIS. SONALI WHITTLE Contributing Writer

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has just approved a two-year plan that entails closing the Men’s Central Jail. The goal of this plan is to lessen the jail population by a few thousand. Since this plan was devised in 2021, there has been little progress in decreasing the number of people in custody.

According to the LA Times, the total jail population is still close to 14,000. The Men’s Central Jail is still open and there are no improvements happening. The board, however, is faced with another task: considering a motion that would declare the county jails a “humanitarian crisis.” This motion has been quite unpopular amongst those in justice reform and law enforcement. According to critics, the motion lacks deadlines for the shutdown and the county does not need fewer jails, but instead more modern jails. A declaration of humanitarian crisis is perhaps the best way to bring immediate attention to decreasing the jail population.

If passed, the county would have to find solutions with

more urgency. LA Times examines a proposed solution involving local law enforcement using a “cite-and-release system.” This would allow people to walk free after specific minor arrests instead of being processed into jail. Another proposed solution was withdrawing bail on specific minor offenses. There were many other ideas in the motion surrounding increasing more pretrial releases with electronic monitoring, or more compassionate releases.

Melissa Camacho, a senior staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California states that if the county had adopted the original plan, instead of focusing on decaling a humanitarian crisis, “they would be moving to proclaim victory.” Richard Pippin, president of the deputy’s sheriffs group says that the “motion represents a confusing mix of ideas.” Pippin also says that in today’s reality, there is a greater need for modern jails for those “who pose a threat to our society.”

In favor of the motion, Sam Lewis, a former prisoner

now executive director of Anti-Recidivism Coalition, says that pulling the motion is a loss to those that are currently facing incarceration. According to Lewis, “the motion could have opened up that possibility for some of them.”

There are those that focus on this motion’s imperfections and do not support the declaration of a humanitarian crisis, and people like Lewis who see this motion as a step towards change. Focusing on what could have been and the board’s lack of initiative towards their original 2021 plan is not productive.

After two years of not making much progress, this motion represents what can be done to help the county jail crisis. Removing the motion puts the county at a standstill with no progress being made. This acknowledgement of LA’s incarceration crisis will force the county to give this H problem the attention it desperately needs. ■

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Extreme highs and lower lows are in the cards for you YSABEL NAKASONE Assistant Opinions Editor

Will this week be your peak or your downfall?

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TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

11

Emerbee’s Food Review NATALIE DAHL Staff Writer

Emerbee’s, the bee-themed cafe located in between the Multidisciplinary Research Building (MRB) and the Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) Building just opened up for the first time since 2020. It originally opened in 2019, but when Covid hit, it closed indefinitely until the university could employ enough students in dining services.

In addition to selling sandwiches, mac and cheese, and noodle salad, they also offer both classic Starbucks drinks and UCR Signature Honey drinks. This orange blossom honey in these comes right from UCR. The cafe works in collaboration with CIBER, UCR Entomology’s Center for Integrative Bee Research, who receives funds from the cafe.

Although there was no line, my food and drinks did take a while to order and receive. I overheard that their espresso machine was broken for a few minutes, but I think that there also needed to be more people working the cafe to get orders out

faster. But the employees were very nice and kept apologizing for the delay! The wait wasn’t bad as the courtyard next to the cafe had plenty of tables shaded with umbrellas. It was a nice pocket of calm away from the hustle and bustle of campus that would be a great place to study.

For food, I ordered avocado toast.

It featured crushed avocado on an English muffin with bruschetta on top. Although it wasn’t what I was expecting, I ended up really enjoying it as a quick bite in between classes because of the fresh ingredients and convenience.They also offer some more fun options like the pizzanini (a pizza grilled cheese) and jalapeno bacon mac and cheese.

For my drink I ordered both a hot and cold drink from the Signature drink menu. My hot drink was the “Stinger,” an espresso shot presumably mixed with local honey. Although it was nothing special, it was a quick boost of energy that I will definitely order again while running back and

forth from my apartment to campus.

My cold drink was the “Blended Vanilla Bee,” a refreshing blended drink topped with lots of drizzled honey. I did have to wait a while to taste it, as I was given a straw-less cup and had to wait for it to slightly melt.

But when it did, the drink tasted like an icy vanilla milkshake. Although the honey slightly froze on top of the cold beverage, it was absolutely delicious. The two other UCR honey drink options that I didn’t try were the “Honey Cinnamon Latte” and the “Honey Steamer.”

I would wholeheartedly recommend giving Emerbee’s a try. Its Signature drinks both filled me with caffeine and pride for a program at UCR. I enjoyed knowing that I was both supporting research on campus and of course, the bees. So swing by and visit Emerbee’s on a weekday anytime from H 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. ■

Buzz by Emerbee’s for a Signature UCR Honey Drink.

KELLEY / THE HIGHLANDER

12 TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

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A soft goodbye Peace out

HARU CHANG Assistant News Editor

I’m stratifying moments in time and space where I felt certain experiences defined this place I occupy right before this issue was published because I couldn’t organize myself enough to write this days before. I won’t be looking back to this article fondly, I might cringe.

A pivotal moment in my academic career was deciding to throw myself into queer theory with abandon. TAKE A QUEER THEORY CLASS, I demand explosive alterations to the way you imagine your relations with community and self.

For the women and queers I offer Reflections on Victorian Fashion Plates by Sharon Marcus from which inspired my analysis of a fashion plate and I wrote, “She is the evocation of epitomized beauty and love ascertained by a predominant female gaze. The woman in the blue bonnet becomes a site of feminine worship.” feminine worship made for the feminine gaze. It is that good. Communion: The Female Search for Love by bell hooks is a volatile substance. Challenging our search for love, it might leave you lovingly dazed from exposure and gently, violently composing realizations.

The Highlander was a ridiculous amalgamation of funky individuals that I was pleasantly surprised to meet. We credit an awkward potluck that synchronized everyone as one chaotic and complimentary vibration. I hope that ours is not unique and that the next line of editors enjoy their Sunday prod sessions, fondly remembering their Sundays for its opportunities for communion. I hope they understand our pains with Coffee Bean opening at 10 AM and our joys in between sections editing their articles. Maybe they will finally get the HUB to keep their bathrooms open for Sunday prod.

I hope by the time I’m rereading this, I’m stroking the cat I might have named Arson who rests on their throne (my lap) in our little apartment we might barely afford in between scheming with my Marxist communist lesbian coven and the transitional minute before my next literary obsession or anime or K-drama or manhwa. I will let this article marinate, stewing in these little moments that feel so wonderful, H and I hope I cringe. ■

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TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

13

Is the show ‘Obsession’ worth it?

A father chooses between his family and his raunchy affair. Who does he favor more?

CARLIE SERVANDO Contributing Writer

Netflix’s new series, “Obsession,” begins with well-known surgeon and protagonist of the show, William Farrow (Richard Armitage), who was first introduced with his successful operation of separating conjoined twins. His colleagues and family praised him outside of the operation room, and the hospital staff even planned an extravagant celebration to share his successes. William was a commemorated doctor who was admired and respected by his colleagues and patients.

Before the party, William’s son, Jay (Rish Shah), excitedly announced to his family that he had been seriously dating a girl for the past couple of months.

As the family pries for the girl’s name, he blurts out “Anna Barton” (Charlotte Murphy). This revelation sets the stage for the forbidden love affair between William and Anna.

Panning out later onto the show, William holds eye contact with a girl amongst the crowd during his party.

Their gaze throughout the party continues, and an electric energy pulsates between them. The girl comes towards William, and he realizes that she is Anna Barton.

As the plot thickens, William proceeds to have the “forbidden tango” and has a sexual affair with Anna despite the consequences. He has a lot to lose, knowing that he could break a strong relationship

between his wife and his son. However, it was clear that William was willing to do anything for Anna. His obsession with Anna was evident, and it consumed him throughout the show.

It is hard to wrap around the idea of a father having an affair with his son’s girlfriend. William’s actions were reprehensible, and he betrayed the trust of his wife and son. His decision to pursue a relationship with Anna was not only morally wrong but also highlighted his selfishness and lack of empathy toward his family.

Moreover, the show lacked a solidified dialogue and mainly focused on the erotic nature between William and Anna. It was quite apparent that the director was a man, and some of the personal scenes were portrayed as unrealistic and exaggerated. The show also failed to explore the underlying problems in William’s marriage, which would have provided a more in-depth understanding of why he chose to have an affair.

Since the storyline revolved around the forbidden affair and often emphasized their intimate scenes, the show failed to build an emotional connection with the characters. The audience was not able to hold any tangible feelings towards any other characters. As the camera focused on William and Anna, it blurred out the rest of the supporting characters by giving them one to two sentences per episode. The lack of character

development and poor writing made it challenging to connect with any of the characters on an emotional level.

While the show slowly burns towards a shocking twist towards the end, it is noted throughout the episodes and becomes almost obvious for the fate of the forbidden lovers. The storyline gave off the impression that it would progress into a bigger plot, but the story felt as if it was cut off too early. Throughout the show, it was noticeable that many recordings were filled with panning shots that held no new understanding or context of the plot. While some of these shots were used to build a sense of atmosphere and mood, the majority of them seemed to drag on unnecessarily. It felt as though the director was trying to pad out the show’s runtime by including these useless scenes, which ultimately ended up detracting from the overall viewing experience. Although there was some action and drama-filled material laid out throughout the show, the show’s quality was not enthralling enough to its audience and was bad enough to not finish half of the episodes.

The show lacked substance, character development and quality writing. Many scenes were hard to watch, and the lack of empathy toward the characters made it H difficult to connect with the story. ■

CHILDREN’S SHOWS COULD PORTRAY A BETTER VERDICT: EVEN CONNECTION BETWEEN CHARACTERS COMPARED TO THIS. ON A NUMBER SCALE RANKING, I WOULD GIVE IT A TWO OUT OF TEN.

‘Hunger’ cooks up a rise to stardom while shining The film highlights the performative toxicity light on class differences THRISTINE M. MAGALLANES Contributing Writer

When it comes to fine dining and the flashy spectacles within the world of “Hunger,” it’s a bigger message on socio-economic class and the whole discrepancy that comes with being associated as a “big-time chef.”

The tortured artist film was released on Apr 8th to Netflix. The movie follows our protagonist Aoy, played

by Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying, who works at a family-owned noodle shop in Thailand and gets recruited by one of the most prestigious chefs in the world, Chef Paul, played by Nopachai Chaiyanam. After she passes try outs, she quickly learns in the advanced world of haute cuisine there is no such thing as an easy task. Chef Paul quickly educates her that in the pursuit to be special, there must also be a hunger to be perfect.

The way class depictions are present throughout this film is prevalent in the artistic manner in which the dishes are created.The slow motion shots on the dishes cooking to the consumption of the food by the patrons further illustrate the patron’s place upon the socio-economic scale. Throughout the themed events the chefs cook at, the dining experience is captivating.

However, the unspoken harsh reality of being a well-known chef are the secret plots that discredit and tarnish their name, due to the mistreatment of their fellow workers.

VERDICT:

of haute cuisine while highlighting the importance of upbringings.

The dialogue between Aoy and Chef Paul highlights the different worlds they come from. Aoy is enthusiastic to be seen and noticed by her superior while Chef Paul still regards her as just a common chef who is disillusioned by her poor upbringing. Another thing to note about the dialogue is the way that almost every side character who speaks has the relatability of how their lines are delivered in regards to life and this concept of being remembered or regarded as somebody towards audiences. The older people in the upper class of society hire for the experience. In contrast, the younger generation just uses it as an excuse to brag to others about the fact that they had them in attendance. Despite being a part of the most distinguished entourage of chefs, they still fade into obscurity due to the reputation that comes with being the face of the biggest fine dining cuisine in the world.

Although Chef Paul is one of the biggest names in fine dining, there is a level of emotional baggage that comes with his upbringing and motivation to be one of the most revered chefs in the world.Throughout the film, there is an emphasis on the characters’ backgrounds and its influence on emotional connection.

The continued drive to become the best versions of themselves is continuously reinforced with music adding

THE DRIVE AND AMBITION THAT LEADS TO ONE’S HUNGER FOR POWER AND SUCCESS IS THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND HOW FAST-PACED “HUNGER” IS. THE DEPICTION OF CLASS IN THIS FILM IS AN ENTERTAINING WATCH IN WHICH AUDIENCES CAN RELATE TO ITS CHARACTERS.

to the tension, the slowed-down effects during cooking scenes and the social commentary of the dialogue being spoken. These elements bear a giant load of weight, exploring overarching themes of this class discrepancy and flamboyant performances that come with being a part of serving the top 1%. The lengths to which their paths to success go are very extreme in some cases and there are questionable moments in which their morals and ambitions get mixed up.

Overall, “Hunger” is a good deep dive into the conversation about losing one’s self in the driving passion and desire for success, by any means necessary.

The commentary on class through the lenses of the upper class, with Chef Paul in contrast to Aoy’s humble beginnings at a local family-owned restaurant, is what kept audiences on the edge of their seats wondering how far these chefs were willing to go to establish themselves in a higher scale of power to their successful careers. In a somewhat critical manner, the way the food’s preparation and consumption is achieved is very ironic in the sense that it feels rather animalistic and still rings true to this socio-economic class discrepancy that’s prevalent in today’s society.■ H

14 TUESDAY, APRIL18, 2023

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‘The Super Mario Bros. Movie’ makes a gigantic leap to cinema screens Mario jumps onto the big screen and succeeds as a video-game film adaptation but is not without its issues.

BRENDAN VO Contributing Writer

Film adaptations of video games, theoretically, should be successful as they can draw in fans of both movies and games. However, films based on video game series have been notorious for bad scripts, acting and overall poor quality — and only four video game films have achieved a “fresh” rating from Rotten Tomatoes between 2019 to 2022. One of the latest video game adaptations, however, walked away with over $375 million in sales in only its first five days.

With record-breaking box office success, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” hits the big screen with the marriage of Nintendo’s most recognizable plumber and Illumination, the studio responsible for animating “Despicable Me.” Theatrically released on Apr. 5, 2023, the film was met with audiences raving about the zany voice acting, impressive animation and incredible soundtrack. Fans of the Mario series were also met with a multitude of references and easter eggs in every corner of the animated movie, whether it was through the background, music, or sound design.

The voice-acting ensemble behind the Mario movie was nothing short of an all-star team. Starring Christ Pratt as Mario, the impressive cast comprises Anya TaylorJoy as a confident Princess Peach, Charlie Day as the cowardly and sincere Luigi and Seth Rogen’s portrayal of the cocky Donkey Kong. However, it was none other than Bowser, voiced by Jack Black, who stole the entire show by being able to emit the threatening aura the Mario villain should have, but also smashing every comedic bit given to him. This even included a solo song nailed by Black that highlighted the ridiculous romance between Bowser and Peach.

Under Illumination, “The Super Mario Bros.

Movie” receives top-tier American animation treatment.

Whether Mario was running through the Mushroom Kingdom, entering combat with Donkey Kong or racing through Rainbow Road in his kart, every action sequence felt polished and smooth. The implementation of different mushrooms and power-ups had audiences on their toes, guessing what Mario would do next and different avenues for him to conquer obstacles. The high, octane nature of the narrative gave the Mario movie the freedom to cram in these vibrant and exciting moments in the 90-minute film.

‘Land of Milk & Honey’ stakes a claim in The Cheech The new exhibit at the Cheech analyzes labor, agriculture and California history with an art-tinted lens.

MAXEN OLVERA Contributing Writer

What stood out the most in the cinematic experience of the heroic plumber was its masterful score. Composed by Brian Tyler, the film’s score sends Mario fans back to the 80s with powerful, orchestral renditions of the classic 8-bit music featured in the games. Tyler’s modern take on longtime Mario composer Koji Kondo’s work brings out an epic and emotional soundtrack from multiple Mario games. However, while its original soundtrack was entirely impressive, the additional music in song choices like “Take On Me” from A-ha and “Holding Out for a Hero” by Bonnie Tyler felt out of place when trying to complement the mushroomeating hero. Overall, the film’s soundtrack would have benefitted from solely using original songs, rather than relying on additional music.

“The Super Mario Bros. Movie” would be an incredible watch when it comes to its excellent soundtrack, animation and voiceacting, however, its Achilles’ heel is exposed when critiquing its incredibly thin narrative.

What the film lacked in its storytelling was having any large themes or lessons imbued in the adventure and it results in a veiled shallow plotline. The story also relies on too many plot conveniences and holes, such as Mario stumbling onto the entrance to Mushroom Kingdom, Bowser somehow discovering the COURTESY OF NETFLIX hero’s plan to use a not-so-secret pathway and especially Bowser’s decision to not ever use the Gold Star, which would aid his conquest immensely.

While “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” excels in every other aspect, having a weak story significantly impedes the viewing experience. It is unfortunate to have that weakness when other family-friendly films were able to accomplish great narratives with amazing animations and soundtracks, such as “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” or the “Kung Fu Panda” trilogy. Cinema has proven that movies meant for kids can still be enjoyed by adults in a meaningful way.

Does this mean that “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” is not worth your time? No, not necessarily. Families have been starving for a 2023 kid-friendly movie and the reviews reflect that sentiment. The audience score on Rotten Tomatoes features a 96%, whereas critics dish out a 58%. The dissonance between the audience and critics presents the difference in the value of a narrative and this makes both scores valid. If you are in just for some family fun, refer to the audience. The film is still a blast to watch, however, its weak narrative will leave more critical H movie-goers unsatisfied. ■

VERDICT:

Unfortunately, with no solid narrative theme or character development, the Mario movie subsequently suffers as a hollow shell of a movie. While it can be a great time for families and casual watchers, hardcore movie-goers may only enjoy the many Nintendo references the movie has to offer.

The sacred “Land of Milk & Honey” is built on satirical yet serious views on border issues. Crossing the border marks a drastic turning point in an individual’s life. The corner of “Land of Milk & Honey” is home to a band of milk cartons with an acrylic painted image of Emiliano Zapata — a Mexican revolutionary leader who ignited the people’s revolution within Central Mexico. The artistic milk containers were made by Pablo Castañeda and Eduardo Kintero, who called the project “The Scar, The Border Dream.”

The passage across the land forever marks individuals who cross the border. They have an invisible scar down their chest carved in by the border. Behind the iconography of Zapata lies three vertical lines that stand in for the U.S. Mexico border. Above the congregation of milk boxes stands a lone carton with the same design meant to symbolize the unfilled promises of the Mexican Revolution. Castañeda & Kintero’s artwork raises awareness about the constant hurdles Mexicans face on their journey towards success.

The center of “Land of Milk & Honey” is recognized by a bottomless tub of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos labeled “Pasarela de Chucherias.” Jazmin Urrea handcrafted construction on the piece, calling attention to the infamous “food apartheid” that causes minorities in low-income communities to have limited access to nutritious food. Lack of nourishing sustenance causes a domino effect that leads to obesity, hypertension and other food-borne diseases. The Flamin’ Hot art installation is a stark reminder of the toxic elements that come with processed foods.

“Land of Milk & Honey” has stellar artwork worldwide, including our very own Riverside, California.

“Pickers & Packets” is a mixed media venture created by Inland Empire natives Juan Delgado and Thomas McGroven The “Land of Milk & Honey” art exhibit curated that highlights workers of the local citrus industry. Delgado and McGroven have put together photomurals, handwritby the MexiCali Biennial has arrived in Riverside’s crown ten poetry and video to allow the public to gain a greater appreciation of workers who make easy access to citrus jewel, The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art, Culture & possible.

The photo mural is labeled “aquí me enseñaron” (“Here they taught me”), displaying images and interviews Industry. The show features an array of mixed media with eyewith the men working in Riverside’s legendary orange groves. It offers a glimpse into the current state of labor within catching paintings to obscure sculptures. The Biennial chose the citrus business.

In front of the photo mural rests a table mural titled “A corrido for hairnets.” It encourages mueach project because of its significant meaning toward the seum patrons to write down a comment on women’s role in the complex citrus process. The table filled up with names prospects of the exhibit. and phrases in less than three days. “Pickers & Packers” allow citizens of Riverside to put a face towards the hard The MexiCali Biennial was kickstarted by artists Ed work that goes along with our prized oranges. My great grandparents were drawn to the work opportunities created by Gomez & Luis G. Hernandez. Biennials reside in the art world the orange groves. Orange pickers and packers have been the economic backbone of Riverside for generations. as an expansive collection of works that pops up every two MexiCali’s biennial “Land of Milk & Honey” examines activism and art from both sides of the border. The years. However, Gomez and Hernandez’s Biennial does not work discussed above barely scratches the surface of what the new exhibit offers. Immigrants saw America as a land stay restricted to its two-year rule. The Mexicali Biennial has oozing with wealth, opportunities and bountiful piles of food or a land of milk & honey. However, the promised land put on multiple exhibitions throughout back-to-back years, of peace and equality can only be reached if it exists. Unfortunately, humanity is too stubborn to produce an idyllic with “Land of Milk & Honey” marking the fifth iteration of land like the one described in the exhibit. “Land of Milk & Honey” shows viewers a grim yet realistic outlook on the the Biennial.

H American dream. “Land of Milk & Honey” is on display at The Cheech until May 28. ■

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/category/radar

RADAR

TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

15

Boygenius’ debut album finally comes to fruition — ‘the record’ is a hit MAX BRIGGS Staff Writer

The unique soundscape created by Bridgers, Dacus and Baker carries the project to great success, with Stewart’s film being a welcome gift to longtime devotees.

COURTESY OF Matador Records

Boygenius is finally back with a debut LP,

Despite the group’s lovely, gentle meshing of their respective styles, equal emphasis is placed “the record,” released on March 31. The American on the individual.

Each member manages to place indie supergroup consists of Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy their stamp on the project, as longtime listeners Dacus and Julien Baker, all of whom are successcannot help but feel some familiarity from their ful solo artists with passionate fanbases. Following the release of their self-titled debut EP “boygenius,” earlier works. Bridgers’ soft timbre hearkens itself supporters of each musician were delighted to see the back to her debut LP “Stranger in the Alps,” which collaboration of the three individuals’ strengths, as is incomplete without the Elliot Smith inspiration, well as witness the forming of a new collective in the of course. The bridge on the final track, “Letter To An Old Poet,” is a definite ode to a fan favorite process. from the EP, “Me and My Dog”: “I wanna be happy / I’m ready to walk into my room without lookin’ The theme of togetherness is key in “the for you / I’ll go up to the top of our building / And record” since the trio’s chemistry on display maintains a similar, palpable sense of interconnectedness, remember my dog when I see the full moon.” perhaps best displayed within the final minute of The former examples are a small part of the track “$20.” The omnipresent, ethereal nature of each song often juxtaposes itself diametrically with the album’s meta-like structuring, as old personal feelings are juxtaposed alongside the past’s inevicreeping waves of darkness — a testament to the table collision with the future. Having the time to songwriting talent all three possess. Baker’s rough embrace all emotions, from dejection to euphoria, vocals especially serve as a raw gateway to Dacus’ heart-wrenching tenderness. Bridgers channels her parallels the universal human experience, ultimatetrademark melancholic tone throughout, providing ly guiding our hearts to open up. This self-referena bridge that guides the transitioning of the project’s tiality serves as a simultaneous acknowledgment many tones with grace. The multiple mood shifts and of both once-private struggles and encouragement for listeners who may be similarly struggling. pacing mirror the constant range of emotions that Themes of mental health, relationships, feminism arise on a first listen. and religion are all prominent throughout, often intertwined together. Similar subjects also feature An apex point of “the record” in terms of in Dacus’ “Historian” and Baker’s “Turn Out the palpability must be awarded to the bridge on “Not Strong Enough,” which consists of one repeated lyric Lights,” with the lyrics working to empower rather than lecture the listener, a sentiment that is shared in particular: “Always an angel / never a god”. This in “the record.” Baker’s intense attention to the subhymn-like, angelic chorus functions as both a catharsis and a transition, with this mutually exclusive jects she writes about adds a degree of seriousness, employment only further deepening the connection creating a perfect thematic balance in the process. between each song.

Verdict:

Boygenius’ almost 5-year-long gap between releases grants them the opportunity to further bolster their distinct and creative indie folk sound, resulting in a wonderful, heartfelt album.

Hauntingly beautiful to its core, the album’s emotional resonance is widespread, with shorter lyrics being as rich as songs that focus on storytelling, demonstrated within the layered lyrics of “Emily I’m Sorry.” Tracks such as this craft the subtle atmosphere created by the project, beckoning those who want to embrace their feelings to come closer.

The production takes a back seat on the less varied tracks, with the potent vocals and songwriting sometimes overshadowing the more simple folk instrumentals. However, this complements the artistic prowess already exhibited and guides the focus on where it should be — in the singing itself. Guitar and its ambiguous qualities in particular are utilized to the fullest. This may upset some purists, but those with esoteric taste will appreciate the ambition.

The album’s release was also accompanied by a short film, aptly named “the film”, in which combines three music videos for the singles released months prior. Actress Kristen Stewart’s direction style is simple yet soothing, emphasizing the richness of color and the coziness of home. All three members are highlighted in their respective chapters, granting the viewer an opportunity to peer through memories seemingly both real and imagined. This choice is a soft reminder that the past will linger; one’s future is what should be looked at.

Although the process of healing is painful, this channeling of hurt into hope is integral. Unabashedly proud of their sexuality, a certain muted reverence forms between the director and the subjects, enabling a blooming portrayal of love rooted in a core of wholesomeness to form. Embracing truth, no matter how difficult it may be, is at the forefront of both projects, making its message clear: all will be remedied with the passage of time and the growth of oneself. Sometimes, you get by with a little help from your friends. ■H

16 TUESDAY, APRIL 18, 2023

Sports

SPORTS

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/category/sports

UC Riverside baseball team loses to cross-town rival Cal Baptist University 5-1 HANSEL CHU Sports Editor

The UC Riverside baseball team lost to Cal Baptist 5-1 on Tuesday night in the Riverside Sports Complex. Going into this game, the Highlanders have lost nine straight games and looked to break their losing streak. However, the offense struggled to put up runs in this game, which led to their loss.

Junior left-handed pitcher Jake Gebb got the start in this game but struggled mightily against the Lancers in the first inning. Gebb got a popout and a groundout to get two out on the board. However, Gebb allowed a home run onto the next batter to give Cal Baptist the first run of the game 1-0. On the next batter, Gebb was able to get the batter to ground the ball toward the shortstop but could not field the baseball cleanly, resulting in a base hit. Gebb then accidentally hit the batter on the next pitch to send runners on second and first base, in which infielder Cole Howarth drove the baseball down the left field line to score another run for the Lancers, 2-0. Gebb was not able to retire the inning with one out remaining as he then gave up a double down the left-center to bring in two more runs and raised the score to 4-0. He was finally able to strike out the next batter to retire the inning. The offense could not do much in the bottom of the 1st as the top of the batting order were all retired.

Redshirt senior pitcher Tyler Frazier subbed in for Gebb in the top of the 2nd inning and although he let up some hits and had runners on base, he was able to close the inning without letting up

any runs. The offense struggled once again in the bottom of the 2nd as the next three batters were quickly retired with a groundout and two strikeouts.

Junior pitcher Tucker Juline checked in for Frazier in the top of the 3rd inning and he was able to make quick due of the Cal Baptist offense. In the bottom of the third, the Highlanders finally reached base for the second time in the game as junior utility player Tyler Weaver was hit by a pitch. However, UCR was unable to capitalize once again when the next batter struck out swinging.

The struggles continued for UC Riverside in the top of the fourth inning as Weaver allowed the second home run of the night to the Lancers to put them up 5-0. Weaver then retired the inning without letting up any more runs but the damage had already been done. Once again, the offense for the Highlanders stalled as they went three up, three down in the bottom of the fourth inning. The game slowed down for both teams in the next few innings and the bullpen for both sides prevented any runs from being scored. UCR found themselves in a predicament in the top of the sixth inning as an error resulted in a runner advancing to third base. However, CBU struckout on their next batting attempt to retire the inning. In the bottom of the sixth inning, the Highlanders started to find some life on the offensive side. A base hit from Weaver allowed him to advance all the way to second base, and a wild pitch advanced Weaver to third. Redshirt

senior catcher Jacob Shanks was then walked to have runners on third and first base. Another wild pitch from Cal Baptist allowed Weaver to race toward home base to get the first run on the board for UC Riverside and brought the score to 5-1.

However, they were unable to capitalize on their momentum as their next two batters struck out to retire the inning.

The seventh and eighth inning saw the bullpens from both teams continue to be spectacular as they allowed a combined one hit in the two innings. In the top of the ninth inning, UCR was able to go three up, three down to give themselves a chance to get back into the game going into the bottom of the ninth. UC Riverside found themselves with runners on first and second base with only one out. However, junior infielder Anthony Mata struck out to leave the Highlanders with their last out remaining. Junior second baseman Dominic Martinez wasn’t able to get the job done as he grounded out to end the game with a score of 5-1.

Weaver and Shanks were the only two Highlanders to score a hit during the game. Redshirt sophomore pitcher Corbin Barker led the way for the Highlander bullpen with two strikeouts, a walk, and a hit in 2.0 innings pitched.

The Highlanders drop down to 6-24 (010) on the year and will have their rematch against Cal Baptist on Tuesday, Apr. 18, at H 6:00 P.M. ■

STRUGGLES CONTINUE FOR THE HIGHLANDERS AS THEY LOSE THEIR 10TH STRAIGHT GAME.

JAZZY NGUYEN / THE HIGHLANDER

UCR softball overcome six run deficit to win away at Hawai’i KIANOOSH NOOSHI Assistant Sports Editor

The UC Riverside Highlanders had a nail-biting and unforgettable win on Friday at the Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium, matching their biggest Big West comeback since 2017. They went head-to-head against the Hawai’i Rainbow Wahine and emerged victorious with a score of 9-7, thanks to a remarkable comeback in the final two innings.

The Highlanders made their biggest Big West comeback away from Amy S. Harrison Field since 2011 against UC Santa Barbara, demonstrating their tenacity and resilience on the field. Despite sophomore Maddie Heinlin making her first start in Hawai’i, she was rattled early on with a two-run home run from the Rainbow Wahine in the first inning. However, junior Grace Pieson and freshman Alexis Galvan came to her rescue with relief appearances in the series opener. Galvan got her first batter to pop out and left the bases loaded, showcasing her exceptional pitching skills.

UC Riverside had a slow start with junior Gigi Araki and freshman Rebeca Cabezas collecting the team’s only hits in the third inning. Nevertheless, back-to-back singles from senior Lauryn Garewal and graduate student Nadia Witt in the sixth inning put the Highlanders back in the game. Senior Marissa Burke hit a three-run home run to left center that brought in both runners, cutting Hawai’i’s lead in half after they had jumped out to a commanding 6-0 lead. Burk had also homered the last time UCR visited the islands in 2021, demonstrating her consistency and strong performance on the field.

But the Highlanders weren’t done yet. Nadia Witt hit an RBI single into left field

before UC Riverside loaded the bases with one out. Ultimately, they pushed across all nine of their runs in the final two innings, with Hawai’i native Gigi Araki hitting an RBI single to left on a 2-2 pitch that gave the Highlanders their first lead of the night.

UCR was able to hold off Hawai’i’s attempts to tie the game up in the bottom of the seventh and secured their win ending a three game skid from the series versus UC Davis. It was an incredible display of determination, and skill in the face of great adversity and the Highlanders emerged winners against a tough opponent.

UC Riverside and Hawai’i will conclude their series with a doubleheader on Saturday night, starting at 7:00 p.m. PST. Fans can expect another thrilling game as both teams battle it out on the field. The Highlanders have proven themselves not to be pushovers, and their remarkable comeback on Friday is a testament to their resilience as a team.

This win, the Highlanders hope, will breathe life into their season as UCR has not been able to win back to back games in conference play yet this season, and boast a measly 3-12 record in the Big West. The series at Hawai’i will be the last before a home series at Amy S. Harrison Field against Cal State Northridge. ■ H