Volume 72, Issue 16

The Highlander UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE

For the week of Tuesday, February 13, 2024

VOL. 72, ISSUE 16

Valentine’s Day Issue

est. 1954

FEATURES The G.O.A.T. of all galentines: A guide to creating an iconic time for the girls

MARIBEL GAMEZ-REYES Assistant Features Editor

Marking t h e unofficial but recognized day of Galentines on Feb. 13, you can extend your celebration of friendships throughout t h e

week of Valentine’s. This alternative or bonus holiday, depending on your Valentine’s Day plans, originated from “Parks and Recreation,” an NBC sitcom. The main protagonist of the show sets the bar high by showering her friends with gifts such as hand-crocheted flower pens, customized portraits made from the bottle of each person’s favorite soda, and a long personalized essay of why she values their ► SEE GALENTINES PAGE 13

OPINIONS While I wait for the love of my life, I always have myself SPANDANA JANAPATI Contributing Writer

In February, I am starved for love. I wait for “Good morning” texts and desperate “I love yous.”

I re-watched “When Harry Met Sally” and “Before Sunrise,” analyzing their interactions and tenuous eye contact. I stare at the couple in front of me in Coffee Bean, fingers interlocked, hushed conversation and delicate smiles exchanged between the two.

Though I roll my eyes in annoyance at the face of their love, I can’t help wondering when it will be my turn.

Being a single college student in February can be a difficult time, especially if everyone around you seems to magically find themselves in a relationship just before Valentine’s Day. It was easy for me to loathe this treacherous

celebration of love in all my single glory. Heart decorations irritated me, candy grams annoyed me and public displays of affection had me on Google Maps, searching ‘rage rooms near me.’

While Valentine’s Day is not as enthusiastic in celebratory spirit as Christmas, it is impossible to ignore all the expensive giftwrapped chocolates and ugly teddy bears saying “Be Mine.” It’s easy to label Valentine’s Day as a scam: a day where your wallet determines the love you get. Valentine’s Day spending in the United States

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► SEE R’PERSPECTIVE PAGE 9

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OPINIONS 6

FEATURES 10

RADAR 15

SPORTS 19

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Upcoming Events:

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Mardi Gras Dinner 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Lothian Residential Restaurant

Softball vs. California Baptist 2 p.m.

Amy S. Harrison Field

14

Find Your Research Match!

11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

HUB

Valentine’s Day Dinner at Lothian 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Lothian Residential Restaurant

VIETGONE Opening Night 8 p.m.

ARTS 113 Studio Theater

Careers in the Creative Arts Panel 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Virtual Event

16

Plates and Dates 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

SRC Classroom Kitchen

R’Time 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.

HUB 260

17

Women’s Basketball vs. UC Davis 2 p.m.

SRC Arena

18

Baseball vs. Nevada 1 p.m.

The Plex

19

Campus Closed for President’s Day

Tuesday

Wednesday

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Thursday

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TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2023

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Valentine’s Day’s Mysterious Roots ST. VALENTINE AND THE LOVEY-DOVEY NATURE OF HIS HOLIDAY.

EMYR ORTIZ Assistant News Editor

This Wednesday, legions of romantics will be sending and receiving gifts of affection, all in the name of St. Valentine. Let’s shed some light on who St. Valentine is and if they really are a big fan of Hallmark cards.

With there being over 10,000 saints by some estimates, and over 30 Valentines, it is difficult to pinpoint which one of these holy figures the holiday of love is named after. Two figures stand out as likely suspects, both dying as martyrs on Feb. 14 under the rule of Roman Emperor Claudius Gothicus, but in different years of the third century.

However, their stories are not ones of chocolate boxes and romance.

According to medieval legend, one of these Valentines was a Roman priest who cured the blindness of a Roman aristocrat’s daughter after a moment of prayer. This miracle convinced the aristocrat and his family to convert to Christianity. Of course, the emperor commanded they all be executed. The other Valentine had a similar story, healing the son of a Christianity-skeptical Roman, and then being executed. Still, other legends tell of St. Valentine performing forbidden marriage rites, or helping Christian prisoners. These stories are more legend than history, full of a lack of evidence and difficult to verify details. In fact, the similarities between the Valentine’s stories has led some

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historians to believe that the two separate St. Valentines were actually one man who got split up into separate characters over time.

Some speculate that the romantic origins of Valentine’s Day come from an ancient pagan celebration. The ancient Roman feast of Lupercalia was a ritual of fertility in which the men would sacrifice a goat and a dog, and then whip women with the hides of these animals. According to Noel Lenski, a professor at Yale University in an interview with NPR, the women would line up to be hit, believing it would make them fertile. The Roman celebration was characterized by drunkenness and nudity, but eventually began its path to the Valentine’s of today when Pope Gelasisus I combined Lupercalia with St. Valentine’s Day to solidify conversion and squash pagan celebrations. Still, this theory is just that, as Smithsonian Magazine states there is “no evidence that the pope purposely replaced Lupercalia” with St. Valentine’s Day. While the saintly origins of Valentine’s Day’s romance are muddy, events in later years provide slightly more insight into the Valentine’s traditions of today. During the middle ages, a belief that birds mated in February may have contributed to the February 14 romance. This idea seemed to pick up steam after “The Canterbury Tales”

author Geoffrey Chaucer became the first English writer to associate romance with St. Valentine, according to some.

For more information on Chaucer, see “For this was on Seynt Valentynes day” by Rebecca Sun on page 12. In a series of poems written in the late 14th century, Chaucer describes a “Seynt Valentyne’s day” with imagery of birds and springtime. This theme was taken up by English writers, with Shakespeare’s Ophelia being described as Hamlet’s Valentine. As time passed, the sentiment grew more entrenched, with the first handmade valentines being seen in the sixteenth century and mass-produced cards developing in the 1800s, according to the Library of Congress. Hallmark began mass production of Valentine’s cards in 1913, and the rest is history.

Whatever the reason, our modern Valentine’s Day now celebrates displays of undying affection, from roses and chocolates, to cards or cockroach naming certificates at the Bronx Zoo (it’s real, look it up). While the gifts of adoration are certain to descend upon tomorrow, the origins H of Valentine’s Day remain as mysterious as love itself. ■

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NEWS

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serves as a “physical demonstration” of the “fraction of the children in Gaza who were killed, who haven’t even reached the age of one.” The protest organizers took

Hall, nearing the end of the protest. There they directed a series of chants towards the administration in the building. Exclaiming statements such as “Wilcox Wilcox, you can’t hide! You are funding Genocide!,” “What do we want? Divestment!” and various other chants that they iterated throughout the day.

Sumehra Jamaah, a third-year transfer student majoring in biochemistry, elaborated on why she came out to the protest. She explained, “I think all the little steps in dismantling anything that supports Zionism is important. I wasn’t able to attend the previous two [protests], which is why I was really happy I got a chance to attend this [one] … You know, everyone thinks ‘I’m just one person,’ but a lot of people saying that adds up.

It is important for everyone to take a stand when they can.”

A member of Graduate Students from Palestine also provided a comment on the protest, stating that “this is just the first step to bring awareness. After that, we plan on passing divestment on the university level and then pressuring campus administration to actually follow through with divestment.” They brought up a past example where in 2016, the university “was able to pull Sabra hummus off of the shelves for one month” until “alumni and local community members and donors kind of pressured the university to put it back on the shelves.”

The walkout ended at around 1:50 p.m. with a closing statement from the organizers. During this they explained that “we are taking part in this day, a united student-led transnational day of action. The student movement on campus is steadfast and committed to the liberation of the Palestinian people.” They ended by iterating that “we will continue to hold our university accountable until we witness a free Palestine and a ceasefire. Thank you all for gathering here today. This is the end of our protest, but it’s not the end of our struggle.”■ H

SJP hosts walkout for National Student Day of Action for Divestment CROWD GATHERS IN SUPPORT OF THE MOVEMENT. MATA ELANGOVAN News Editor

A few dozen people gathered at the Highlander Union Building (HUB) as part of the National Student Day of Action for Divestment. The walkout and call for action took place on Thursday, Feb. 8 and began at 12:30 p.m.

Major topics of discussion at the event surrounded claims of university complicity in genocide, dubious investments and called for holding the University of California, Riverside (UCR) accountable for their actions.

The walkout was hosted by the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) Riverside chapter and began with a few words from the organizers. The opening remarks began with an introduction of the organization and jumped into a series of chants, exclaiming, “Free, free, free Palestine!” “Not another penny! Not another dollar!” and “No more money for Israel’s crime!”

Two professors, along with the event organizers, came up to deliver statements during the duration of the protest that took place at the HUB. Professor David Lloyd of the English department and supervisor for SJP claimed that “our university, from the top down, is invested in that genocide by investing our dollars, your tuitions, into a genocidal set of corporations.” He also called for divestment from Starbucks, claiming that “the CEO of Starbucks is a union buster.” He also called for shutting down Education Abroad programs in Israel.

These programs, Professor Lloyd claims, “discriminate against who you are; they will not allow you in on the basis of who you are. If you are Palestinian, if you are Muslim, if you happen to be a member of SJP.” After that, Professor Dylan Rodríguez of the Media and Cultural Studies department delivered a statement regarding the conflict. He stated his belief on the importance of protest, claiming “what we are doing here seems modest but significant. Because we are advancing the liberation struggle in the cultural practice of not being underestimated.” He elaborated on the various actions students and professors can take as a “cultural front of liberation.”

These statements were delivered to a group of people sitting on the grassy field in front of the HUB. Many wore keffiyehs, and others held signs calling for university divestment. A group in the middle held up a nearly 40-foot-long sheet of paper, which the organizers state

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turns reading aloud the list of names, and in response, the crowd would say, “Not another number!”

After finishing the reading of the names, the crowd then mobilized towards Hinderaker Hall. On the way, they passed the banner that SJP had dropped from the HUB earlier, which read, “MURDERING 15000+ CHILDREN IS NOT SELF DEFENSE #FREEPALESTINE.” As they marched towards Hinderaker, the crowd continued to

take part in chants and grew in numbers as more and more people joined in.

At around 1:30 p.m., the crowd arrived at Hinderaker

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NEWS

TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

Research Spotlight: UCR’s Childhood Cognition Lab: A bird’s eye view into how our inner child comes to understand the world around us

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UCR’S CHILDHOOD COGNITION LAB IS TAKING A DEEP DIVE INTO TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW CHILDREN COME TO MAKE SENSE OF THE WORLD. SANJANA THATTE Contributing Writer

Like all University of California (UC) schools, the University of California Riverside (UCR) is on the cutting edge of discovery and innovation, which comes with its status as a major research institution. Recently, professors like Rebekah Richert at the Childhood Cognition Lab at UCR’s psychology department are continuing to innovate by not only asking the challenging questions that drive the field of developmental psychology, but also taking a more global approach to answering them, providing an understanding of how children take in the world around them.

The Childhood Cognition Lab here at UCR seeks to understand how children, particularly when they are very young, understand and internalize their place in the more abstract parts of human society and make sense, as Professor Richert puts it, “of the different worlds we show them.”

This encompasses everything from learning about religious rituals to young children’s first understandings of science from cartoons and fantasy. Professor Richert explains her motivations, stating, “What I’m interested in is how learning about that, or even just being exposed to that kind of media influences how children think about early science stuff that they’re learning about.” These difficultto-characterized concepts help make up almost every culture across the globe and often become an unconscious part of our society. Yet how we take in and understand such ideas as children is still being explored today. As Professor Richert explains, developing a greater understanding of how children learn such concepts can help us better communicate important life lessons to them and allow them to become fulfilled and engaged members of society.

Professor Richert’s more recent projects seek to do that by moving to a global stage with the Developing Belief Network, an international research organization that seeks to better understand cognition. Their current

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project is about to finish data collection after two and a half years of planning and implementing research that seeks to better understand how children from the ages of four to ten understand religion in regards to beliefs, actions, communities and more. For this study, there is a particular interest in seeing how children from different backgrounds may think about and understand the idea of God, and how that relates to the types of moral and social rules that are associated with deities. These rules are often encoded in our lives by the time we become teenagers, solidifying as we move to the adult world.

This research will also be important to see if developing an understanding of these beliefs and structures, helps to create a sense of belonging and connection in children’s lives as they grow up. Professor Richert described how she believed that there would be much to lose by not taking the sample from a more global perspective as well. “[A] couple reasons we take a global approach, one is that, up till now, the majority of research that has been done on how young children’s … thinking about religion develops has been based primarily … in westernized countries with children from Christian backgrounds … those studies are valuable on their own, we learned something from that but those studies don’t have the the diversity of representation.”

The study is striving to be as inclusive as it can be of cultures of all religious backgrounds, including everyone from indigenous communities and those who identify as atheists so that conclusions are not drawn based on a very narrow subset of human experiences.

Still, the research performed in this lab is not just limited to the social aspects of developmental psychology. In years past, Professor Richert’s lab has tested video games like Dance Dance Revolution and Wii consoles when they first came out, as a way to try to examine the potential benefits towards the physical fitness of children as they played.

Professor Richert was quick to provide a small disclaimer,

however, stating that some of these games are meant to be just that. Games, for children to enjoy and have fun.

The research that is conducted into games such as these is simply to see if there are any added benefits to activities that kids incorporate into their everyday lives.

Much of the research at the Childhood Cognition Lab is led by graduate students who work under the mentorship of Professor Richert. She describes the relationship and journey of being a graduate student under a given professor as being one of apprenticeship rather than studenthood.

“When graduate students start they’ll typically start by being in a project that is already going on … but then every graduate student has their own goals, their own interests and ideas, and not only are they different from mine … they should be ideas that they want to take and develop their own career to study.”

The relationship is one of collaboration rather than that of the top-down hierarchy associated with school. This allows graduate students to develop the skills needed for when they enter the workforce formally by essentially doing a trial run of being a professor themselves. This is the same for many of the research assistants (R.As) who work under Professor Richert and her lab. Though much of the experience is related to learning and getting a better understanding of their field of study, many of their duties are directly involved in the research that is being performed, such as transcribing or even being trained to conduct interviews within the study. Professor Richert and the Childhood Cognition Lab seek to broaden the horizons of developmental psychology by asking questions and looking for answers in the diverse and multicultural world we live in.

If you are interested in this research, Professor Richert encourages students to look over the lab’s R.A. application H that is currently open. ■

6 TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

Opinions

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THE HIGHLANDER EDITORIAL

School boards have to transcend politics even when nothing else does

THE RECALL OF TEMECULA VALLEY UNIFIED DISTRICT’S BOARD PRESIDENT IS IMPORTANT IN LIMITING THE CONTROL OF POLITICAL GAMES AND SHOWMANSHIP PERMEATING EDUCATION. 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.

The Temecula Valley Unified School District’s (TVUSD) board president, Josepth Komrosky, has become the target of a recall after a petition demanding his removal gained enough signatures to be added to the ballot. The board voted to recommend May 28 as the recall election date. Komrosky has become the subject of recall due to his extreme far-right political leadership as board president. The policies implemented under Komrosky’s leadership represent a harmful wave of politicization in schools and an increased failure to provide students with an honest education.

This move on the part of the community comes as a surprise in Temecula, a largely conservative location. This represents a strong apprehension and opposition to the politicization of education and the school board. The One Temecula Valley Political Action Committee (PAC), which is part of the effort to recall Komrosky, has been outspoken in showing that this petition is the result of people who want school boards to be about what’s best for the people schools are supposed to be led by and serve students and teachers.

Many of those who signed the petition describe themselves as conservatives.

These individuals may believe in these values being a part of the school board but oppose Komrosky’s actions, which they feel are targeting teachers and children exercising their fundamental constitutional and human rights. School boards need to be about building up and supporting a fracturing public school system, and Komrosky has been unable to convince anyone of his good intentions.

Komrosky has also stifled free speech at board meetings and denied members of the community their rights to speak on issues. A lawsuit seeking a financial reward of exactly $1 and attorney’s fees was filed against Komrosky for his soccer carding system, which he uses to remove speakers he believes violate board rules.

Despite these rules being intended to kick out those who caused actual disruptions, they became about removing attendees who were “likely to disrupt” the meeting and those who offered inflammatory commentary, including a woman who called a board member a “homophobe” and a man who said one board member “was probably a communist.” Regardless of the offensive nature of such commentary, they represent the speakers’ opinions, which they have every right to share. First Amendment rights must be protected at every turn, regardless of the controversy they inspire or the sensibilities they offend.

Ensuring that these speakers are allowed to say what they believe is the only way to ensure newspapers can print what they want and protestors can say what they want.

A major part of Komrosky’s efforts is about pushing for parents’ rights at the expense of their children. By violating student’s privacy to keep parents informed on their children’s identity, he has made schools an inherently unsafe space. Komrosky has made victims out of children in the name of religious indignation. It is unconstitutional and morally wrong to make curriculum choices or reveal a child’s identity for the sake of one’s personal beliefs. While parents do need latitude to parent their children, they have no right to interfere in the learning and privacy of an entire school district’s worth of children. It’s a blatant overreach and expands the concept of parents’ rights beyond what is reasonable or right. Simply because a student adopts a different gender identity at school does not mean they are

publicly proclaiming it to the world, and the staff has a right to expose them off school grounds.

Politics do not belong in determining educational standards and Komrosky has no right to cherry-pick which perspectives children are exposed to based on personal politics or religious beliefs. The board, under Komrosky’s leadership, banned the teaching of critical race theory (CRT) and required schools to inform parents of their child’s gender identity in a stunning show of cruelty toward children. Kromsky has claimed to be “rigorously seek[ing] out and stand against any evil such as pervasive obscenity, vulgarity, pornography and erotica here at TVUSD. I will continue to resist these harmful things with every ounce of my being.” However, the policies that have garnered national attention and the community’s ire have nothing to do with any of those things.

Furthermore, these students were never exposed to CRT to begin with, as it has never been implemented in Temecula.

Board member Allison Barclay, who voted

against the ban, stated, “There is no need for this resolution. It silences history.” This was a political move done not out of real concern about the actual curriculum but simply to condemn any acknowledgment of undeniable institutional racism.

The conservative values Kromsky is peddling are taking it too far. In dictating terms and excluding important curriculum from students’ education, they fail to prepare them for the future fully. These beliefs have a place in discourse, but they cannot be to the exclusion of other scholarly viewpoints. Children deserve and must be exposed to various belief systems and values. Religious and personal beliefs do not constitute empirical evidence that educational standards are wrong or need to be banned.

Kromsky’s politics are part of a national education trend that ignores students’ needs. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is losing traction in at least eight states banning or limiting its inclusion. It’s been called a “trojan horse” for curricula on gender identity or CRT when it’s aimed at increasing students’ ability to work well with others. This ignores a host of evidence that conclusively found SEL improves academic performance and student wellbeing. This trend of trying to score political points by denying children has to stop.

Censorship of any kind creates a climate of fear in schools, further burdening educators. When, in 2023, the Florida Department of Education banned course content on gender identity and sexuality in Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology courses and endangered students trying to earn college credit for those courses, schools were forced to remove books and course materials to avoid potential penalties. Kromsky’s work also restricts curriculum through intimidation, as violations can lead to consequences for teachers. Educational staff have been dismissed and penalized for violating censorship policies. In 2022, it was reported that over 160 teachers were fired or quit due to political interference in their jobs. Teachers are being put in the middle of a fight they didn’t sign up for and their job security is being jeopardized to do it.

There is no way to allow Kromsky to continue in his position and meet the district’s needs. Temecula’s parents have come together to recall him, and beyond the politics, he has made his position about political buzzwords and not about having the students’ best interests in mind. ■ H

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OPINIONS

TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

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Write-Off: Quiznos is the biz-nos MATA ELANGOVAN News Editor

PUT THE EFFORT IN BEFORE HOOK, LINE AND SINKER. Choosing the ideal location for the first date is a nerve-wracking experience.

The right place can make or break the entire outing. While most people’s go-to locations involve places such as coffee shops, bowling alleys or movie theatres, there are better places out there. There needs to be a little sparkle, something out of the ordinary, to make a memorable first impression. That is why Quiznos is a completely acceptable location for a first date.

Starting with the atmosphere, Quiznos sets the standards. First dates should not feel overtly intimidating or structured.

Quiznos is a bit more laid-back, a casual setting where people can get the time to enjoy a sandwich and get to know the other person a little better. There is no better way to get to know someone than by learning about their dietary preferences.

Quiznos’ menu accommodates everyone, whether a person is vegan, a meat lover or just has allergies that need to be watched out for. Not to mention, it is fairly

affordable, meaning that the first date is not a financial burden, something that both parties can enjoy.

There are endless possibilities for a sandwich shop first date. The music is a vibe, there’s a steady flow of traffic and there is never a dull moment. It is a peaceful location where not many things can go wrong. Emphasis is placed on the quality of the interaction between the two people rather than the quality of the location they meet. Not only that, the unexpectedness of meeting at Quiznos creates a lasting impression. It can also be used as a future inside joke or a memorable experience to reminisce on.

The main reason Quiznos is an acceptable first-date location is because the positives outweigh the negatives.

If the date goes wrong, at least there is a sandwich on hand. If the date is a creep, at least they are in a public space where they can call for help. If the date is going great, it’s possible to relocate to another location to continue the day after

getting to know one another better. The options are endless; after getting into a good conversation, one can also begin to establish expectations for the date and understand the other person’s wants, finding out if they are compatible with one another.

The bar is set with Quiznos and the only place left to go is up. Now that the first date is overcome, there is only room for improvement. Using the time at Quiznos to get to know the other person’s interests is a fool-proof tactic. All that newfound information can now be used to make other successful dates. Quiznos is not the end-all-be-all part of the relationship; it is just the stepping stone to prepare. One can use all the facts one has gathered, dietary preferences, conversational topics,

expectations for dates and relationships to H do better next time. ■

Write-Off: Long gone are the days of effort in the dating world SENNA OMAR Managing Editor

DON’T GO TO QUIZNOS — SHOW THEM YOU CARE. Choosing the perfect venue for a first date can be a daunting task. It sets the tone for the whole relationship and can make or break the whole dating experience. While fast-food restaurants like Quiznos offer convenience and affordability, they may not always be the best choice for a memorable first date. If the goal of the first date is not to get a second date, then Quiznos is the place to go.

Founded in 1981 by Jimmy L a m b a t o s , Quiznos is a franchised fastfood restaurant based in Denver, Colorado, that specializes in offering toasted submarine sandwiches.

Quiznos is known for its unique selection of ingredients, including a variety of artisan breads, meats and cheeses that are toasted together to enhance the flavors.

Alongside its classic subs, the menu often features salads, soups and specialty

items. However, despite the variety of tasty sandwiches this franchise offers, this may be the worst place on the planet to take someone on a first date.

The first date sets the tone for the entire relationship.

If one begins dating life with this mediocre sandwich shop, then all the people involved in this relationship have to look forward to is a lack of effort and bad sandwiches; there is a reason all the Quiznos are dropping like flies. Effort is a requirement for the first date; show the person being taken on the date that there is actual thought put into the location and planned events. There’s nothing wrong with sandwiches — get some Quiznos and have a picnic; no need to eat in the weird Quiznos atmosphere.

The casual nature of a fast-food restaurant like Quiznos may inadvertently

convey a lack of effort or thoughtfulness on the part of the person who chose the venue. First dates are an opportunity to make a positive impression and demonstrate a genuine interest in getting to know the other person.

Opting for a more casual dining setting may send the wrong message and suggest a lack of consideration.

Ambiance plays a crucial role in creating a romantic atmosphere conducive to meaningful conversation and connection.

U n f o r t u n a t e l y, most Quiznos l o c a t i o n s typically lack the intimate energy that first dates require. The bright lighting, bustling atmosphere and often crowded seating arrangements can detract from the sense of intimacy and privacy that a first date necessitates. Instead of feeling relaxed and comfortable, both parties may find

themselves feeling awkward and selfconscious amidst the hustle and bustle of a fast-food establishment.

While Quiznos undoubtedly offers convenience and affordability, it is not the ideal location for a first date.

The lack of effort, ambiance and practical considerations associated with dining at a fastfood restaurant can detract from the overall experience and inhibit the development of a meaningful connection between two individuals.

Instead, couples seeking to make a lasting impression and foster genuine connection may be better served by choosing a venue that offers a more intimate and memorable dining experience. ■ H

IMAGES COURTESY OF FREEPIK

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TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

OPINIONS

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/category/opinions

Behind the emergence of “Sephora Kids” is irresponsible parenting and the pervasive impact of consumerism MARIBEL GAMEZ-REYES Assistant Features Editor

Tiktok’s latest controversy redirects to pre-existing concerns about parenting.

In early January, a college student named Chloe Grace shared a TikTok video narrating a “story time” of her most recent shopping experience at Sephora. Eliciting a widespread reaction with a simple observation, she questioned, “Has anyone else noticed that every time you go into Sephora now, it’s just all little girls?” The video received over 666,000 views and rapidly continues to earn engagement amongst other users with similar sentiments on the sudden influx of “10-year-olds” shopping at Sephora. These children have been engaging in messy conduct, alleged bratty behavior and turbulence in the once-peaceful environment of Sephora.

The framing of “Sephora Kids,” which criticizes girls from Generation Alpha, brings larger issues at play into conversation: parenting and the pervasive impact of consumerism. By the end of 2024, the expenditures for the youngest generation are expected to be approximately $5.39 trillion and are predicted to increase by $10 billion yearly. This isn’t surprising, as they’re the only generation with a technological upbringing, inherently familiarized with social media and even going as far as exemplifying that with the nickname “iPad kids.”

This isn’t a passing cosmetic craze but is here for the long run as marketers adjust their strategies to suit Generation Alpha’s social media presence. By assuring brand

loyalty, these kids will be loyal customers as they age and become financially independent. Additionally, “Sephora kids” have access to social media apps where they are relentlessly bombarded with “get ready with me” and “shopping haul” videos that appeal to them. These young “Sephora girls” are highly susceptible to marketing approaches that take form in their favorite influencers, trending TikToks.

Introducing the beauty industry to these young girls was bound to occur, but that doesn’t leave parents faultless. Sephora employee Natalie Herrera shared a “storytime” video where she narrates that a 10-year-old girl whose shopping cart was overflowing when she reached the cash register was going to purchase almost $900 worth of products. The girl’s even younger sister had purchased $500 worth of products. After delegating over the total price, the mother-daughter duo com-

promised on a baffling $500, having been forced to take out two products but not without asserting, “... but that’s the last thing I’m taking out!”

There’s a fine line between “gentle parenting” and permissive parenting, which this careless splurge falls into. Some experts express that some parents may misunderstand the framework of the gentle parenting method, which includes healthy boundaries and discipline. Adult employees and customers also endure the creation of “makeup smoothies,” which means mixing different tester products that result in a mess of the displays while acting entitled and causing problems for employees.

These children are also challenging the inclusivity of the beauty industry, which, even though it wasn’t initially geared toward children, still welcomes their business with the hope of catering to them and securing

their loyalty. The “Sephora Kids” phenomenon took off due to the influence of consumerism and the tactics of the cosmetics industry. However, it has escalated due to parents’ inability to say no and blindly funding their children’s obsessive expenditures.

Parents seem unconcerned over many of the products they are using. Some products with potential implications for skin damage, like retinol, should be nowhere near these girls’ shopping radars. However, they’re not at fault for opting to buy what they see online; the fact that they are buying these products reflects a bad light on the parents for neglecting the impact of product research or responsibility.

Acknowledging that the concept of childhood has changed is the first step in approaching the discourse of adults feuding over who is to blame. “Sephora Kids” should not be a surprising phenomenon, but social media should not be taking over parenting roles. In a Teen Vogue interview with a “Sephora Kid,” she expressed, “It’s just a thing we do. I get it. Bratz dolls were probably popular when you were 10 years old.

But I’m a kid [now], and this is what’s popular. This is the new toy that we have. This is a new generation; we’re Generation Alpha.

And I’m proud of that.” ■ H

IMAGE COURTESY OF FREEPIK

Elmo’s viral check-in illustrates the urgent need to address the mental health crisis LILIANNA ANGEL Contributing Writer

With over 20,000 responses, Elmo’s recent check-in accentuates America’s mental health crisis, highlighting the need for improved services and equitable access for all.

On Jan. 29, the internet hosted a massive venting session with Elmo. The Sesame Street character wanted to check in with everyone and see how they were doing. Initially, Elmo received an unexpected response of 12,000 replies; however, that number has since grown to 20,000. While it is wonderful that Elmo reached out to everyone, the sheer volume of responses is cause for concern.

People are facing mental health challenges due to countless reasons, including social media, social isolation and the realization of mortality. All of these factors and more contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression and poor sleeping habits.

Current mental health services in the U.S. are subpar at most. In America, there are around 50 million people reported experiencing mental health difficulties. Of that number, those receiving mental health services have a mental health provider handling around 350 cases alone. It’s clear that America is experiencing a mental health crisis, and the existing mental health services are inadequate support systems to support this. Elmo’s check-in signifies the need for stronger mental health services in America.

These services are insufficient, and access to them is extremely limited. The cost of mental health services can be expensive, therefore placing an arbitrary barrier. Even if people are lucky enough to have access to these services, people are forced to endure extended waiting times to see a professional. Not to mention the barriers insurance companies set, making it nearly impossible to see a mental health professional. A few barriers that insurance companies create are insufficient coverage and high out-of-pocket expenses. Also, insurance companies make it so difficult to see a professional through their absurd criteria for coverage, and the professionals people can see under that health insurance have to be in-network, meaning that there is

an increased struggle to find a suitable provider within their insurance network. This is harmful because one’s condition may worsen in the time it takes to see a mental health professional.

Another barrier is the social stigma around seeking treatment. Culturally, older generations see seeking mental health help as a weakness, which prevents them from receiving the help they need.

Elmo’s viral check-in is a wake-up call to address this mental health crisis. While it’s heartening to see initiatives like California’s Proposition 1, aimed at improving mental health services and assisting the unhoused community, these efforts alone are insufficient. Proposition 1 aims to reform the mental health sector in California, provid-

ing sufficient services to those experiencing mental health and substance abuse issues.

Additionally, the proposition plans to allocate housing for 11,000 unhoused persons to aid their most vulnerable community facing mental health challenges. More funding must be allocated towards mental health programs to promote a supportive environment in the mental health sector effectively.

California’s Prop 1 represents just a fraction of what is needed to address the state’s mental health needs adequately. The scope of the problem demands a comprehensive and sustained commitment to mental health care on both local and national levels.

The overwhelming response to Elmo’s check-in is a poignant reminder of prioritizing self-care and mental well-being. As citizens, it is imperative to not only take care of individual mental health but also to advocate for and support measures that can positively impact the mental health landscape.

By voting on measures prioritizing mental health, people can collectively contribute to building a healthier and more resilient sociH ety for generations to come. ■

IMAGE COURTESY OF PEXELS

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OPINIONS

TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

9

R’Perspective: While I wait for the love of my life, I always have myself SPANDANA JANAPATI Contributing Writer

VALENTINE’S DAY CAN BE HARD IF YOU ARE SINGLE, BUT IT’S IMPORTANT TO STILL APPRECIATE ALL THE LOVE YOU HAVE IN YOUR LIFE AND ALL THE LOVE WAITING FOR YOU. In February, I am starved for love. I wait for “Good morning” texts and desperate “I love yous.” I re-watched “When Harry Met Sally” and “Before Sunrise,” analyzing their interactions and tenuous eye contact. I stare at the couple in front of me in Coffee Bean, fingers interlocked, hushed conversation and delicate smiles exchanged between the two. Though I roll my eyes in annoyance at the face of their love, I can’t help wondering when it will be my turn.

Being a single college student in February can be a difficult time, especially if everyone around you seems to magically find themselves in a relationship just before Valentine’s Day. It was easy for me to loathe this treacherous celebration of love in all my single glory. Heart decorations irritated me, candy grams annoyed me and public displays of affection had me on Google Maps, searching ‘rage rooms near me.’

While Valentine’s Day is not as enthusiastic in celebratory spirit as Christmas, it is impossible to ignore all the expensive

gift-wrapped chocolates and ugly teddy bears saying “Be Mine.” It’s easy to label Valentine’s Day as a scam: a day where your wallet determines the love you get.

Valentine’s Day spending in the United States keeps breaking a record yearly.

In 2019, Americans spent up to $20.7 billion on gifts, including candy, flowers, jewelry, greeting cards and date nights for their significant others. Spending increased to $27.4 billion the next year in 2020.

Two years ago on Valentine’s Day, I had three fun-sized Snickers bars, which I washed down with a large Taco Bell Baja Blast before staying up until 2 a.m., studying for my political science midterm the next day. I remember going to sleep that night, desperate, sad and alone, scrolling through Instagram stories of my old high school classmates pressing redlipped kisses to their lover’s cheek. I was convinced my destiny didn’t include love.

It’s easy to hate a holiday of love when you don’t feel loved.

Although Valentine’s Day has a less than

appealing, convoluted origins story with the Romans sacrificing animals in celebration at the Feast of Lupercalia, today, the celebration is extended beyond just being in love to simply appreciate love in all its forms as well.

Last year, for Valentine’s Day, I decided to engage in a well-known tradition: Galentine’s Day. Galentine’s Day is a term coined by Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler, on the sitcom “Parks and Recreation.”

According to Knope, this made-up celebration falls on Feb. 13 and is the perfect opportunity for ladies to celebrate. My Galentine’s Day included five close friends cozied up on the tiny couch in my even tinier apartment. We watched “Another Cinderella Story” and attempted to recreate Selena Gomez and Drew Seeley’s two-sided mirror dance. We ended the night at 11 p.m., and I had fallen asleep, my heart filled with love from the ones who know me best. Even if it wasn’t romantic, it was more than enough.

Whether single or in a relationship, you can

get caught up in negative feelings, sad thoughts and unachievable expectations regarding Valentine’s Day. There is so much pressure put on finding your soulmate, especially around the holidays, to avoid loneliness; I mean, there’s a whole sub-genre of romance movies dedicated to this idea. However, it’s important to remember that Valentine’s Day is like any other day. Two people’s romantic celebration of love and my lack, therefore, is not a sign that you are unlovable. One day, I will experience the love of my dreams — one that makes my heart sing. And so will everyone else.

Although I’m stuck with another unwanted midterm this Valentine’s Day, I will find some way to celebrate the love in my life, even if that is just through a text to a close friend. So, if you are feeling lonely this Valentine’s Day, remember that you can always celebrate the love you have for yourself, your family and your friends. And if that doesn’t work out, H there’s always next year. ■

California lawmakers push to protect kids from social media addiction LEILANI ACOSTA Contributing Writer

SILENT KILLERS: CALIFORNIA SENATE BILL 976 FORMULATES A PLAN OF ATTACK ON SOCIAL MEDIA’S ADDICTIVE TENDENCIES. Worldwide, 4.59 billion people use social media, and 71% of them report that it facilitates their creativity. However, lawmakers highlight social media’s tendency to distract from productivity in Senate Bill 976. SB 976 was proposed

by Sen. Nancy Skimmer and Attorney General Rob Bonta this past month.

The bill, if passed, will stop both social media apps from sending notifications to children late at night and social media apps from putting addictive advertisements on children’s social media feeds. California’s SB 976 will attack these silent productivity killers from the inside out.

Introduced in 1997, social media forums have been around for decades and were primarily used by the older generation. The initial purpose of using social media was solely to keep in touch with loved ones as a way to catch up with family and friends without really speaking to them. However, social media has since blossomed into a larger outlet

for people to engage creatively. Opposers of the bill argue that social media is here to stay, and we should encourage children to use technology to their advantage.

For example, take beauty blogger Fiona Frills. Frills was 16 when she began posting on social media. Immediately, the teenager gathered a huge following.

Frills used this to her advantage and put her entrepreneurial spirit into practice.

By marketing makeup products to her followers, Frills was able to make her dreams of being a businesswoman manifest into reality. Opponents of this bill fail to realize that SB 976 is not barring children from using social media but instead lessening the addictive aspects of the feeds of underage kids.

Lawmakers and researchers worry about the negative emotions social media stirs in children’s minds. All these emotions stem from comparison — the enemy of confidence. This phenomenon is colloquially known as Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). When seeing an image

of another person smiling or enjoying themselves, the viewer will wish they could be experiencing that happiness.

These users are usually kids and can’t distinguish between true and false images. Although social media isn’t entirely to blame, it maintains a place for these negative emotions to roam.

These concerns are the driving force behind SB 976. Fostering a FOMOfilled environment is another way social media pries into a child’s productive and energized mind.

Additionally, the bill is forecasted to have no negative economic impacts.

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) publically publishes cost amounts to its website for every bill passed. However, since SB 976 has not been formally passed yet and was only introduced, its cost can be compared to that of a similar bill. For example, Senate Bill 61, the “Combating Cartels on Social Media Act of 2023,” successfully eradicated a majority of cartel members on social

media sites such as WhatsApp, Telegram and Instagram who were using the system to recruit human smugglers. Like this bill, SB 976 is forecasted to have no negative economic effects. With a bill that costs little for the government and has positive intentions for the future generation, there is minimal reason for anyone to oppose this legislation.

If Californians vote in favor of SB 976, children will be more productive and get more rest because the bill hinders social media sites’ ability to send kids notifications in the middle of the night. Additionally, children will be less addicted to these social media sites because the bill reduces their exposure to addictive advertisements on kids’ social media feeds. By voting in favor of SB 976, California’s generation will be equipped with the skills to combat distraction and any other issues they face. ■ H

IMAGES COURTESY OF FREEPIK

Features 10 TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

FEATURES

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/category/features

Love might be in the air Find out what your sign says about your love life this Valentine’s Day…

Aedan Ferrara, Production Manager

TAURUS: Six of Cups April 20 - May 20 The Six of Cups represents a return, in some ways, to your childhood.

It might be a cliché, but maybe an old childhood friend has reentered your life. Keep an eye out if you visit your hometown: love might just blossom in the most familiar of places.

Gemini: Five of Swords May 21 - June 20 Sometimes, you have a lot of options, and other times, you’re one of the options. If someone caught your eye recently, you might find yourself competing with others for their attention. Contemplate how deep your feelings are for this person. They might be just another campus crush or they may be someone worth fighting for.

Aries: Two of Swords March 21 - April 19 I’m afraid to say — you might have a love triangle on your hands, Aries.

You’re facing a difficult decision, torn between two equally viable options.

You can spend ages weighing the pros and cons, arguing with yourself about what to do, but I’m here to tell you not to choose with your head. Choose with your heart.

Cancer: Star June 21 - July 22 Let’s face it, dating can be tough. It’s not your fault if you’ve had a rough time, but luckily, that’s all about to turn around. The Star represents a restoration of hope and joy — you’ll find someone who, like the north star, gives you direction and orients you in the world. Some might even say it was meant to be.

Libra: Eight of Wands September 23 - October 22 This is a time of dynamic change. Maybe a long relationship is coming to an end, or someone new has recently come into your life. This is your sign to explore the new landscape of your love life to its fullest extent: enjoy your freedom, because while it won’t last forever, it’s here now, and that’s what’s important.

Capricorn: Knight of Swords December 22 - January 19 You know what you want in a partner.

Perhaps you know someone who knows what they want, but they’re afraid to go for it. Perhaps it’s someone whose plans and ambitions always lead them exactly where they want to go. If so, Capricorn, now’s the time to shoot your shot, because you’ve caught their eye, too.

Leo: Six of Wands July 23 - August 22 After a period of darkness, of feeling almost unseen, the Six of Wands indicates that you’ll see the end of it very soon. You’ll be recognized for your efforts, for your uniqueness and for your worth. Don’t be discouraged — keep on putting yourself out there.

Scorpio: Seven of Cups October 23 - November 21 You might think you have a lot of options before you, but there might not be as many as you think. Maybe it’s wishful thinking, or maybe you’ve been misled. Regardless, take a moment to really self-reflect, and remember: not all delulus become trululus.

Aquarius: Eight of Cups January 19 - February 18 You’ve seen some disappointments recently, and you might be thinking about withdrawing and turning away. You can feel that something just isn’t right — that something’s missing. Maybe your partner is not meeting your needs and you are looking for love in all the wrong places. Challenge yourself to lean into those feelings of missing something instead of pulling away.

Virgo: Eight of Swords August 23 - September 22 You haven’t been kind to yourself, Virgo. Many of the limitations you see, the people you feel you can’t approach, the things you feel you can’t try — these limitations are self-imposed. To break free, step out of your comfort zone and take a leap of faith.

Sagittarius: Ten of Wands November 22 - December 21 Things are looking bleak. You’re coming up on a rough patch in your dating life; it’s going to be difficult, but things will only change with time.

Buckle down and stay strong, one way or the other, you’re going to have a hard time. It’s just a question of how you’ll take it.

Pisces: Queen of Cups February 19 - March 20 The Queen of Cups is compassionate, caring, and most elusive of all, emotionally stable. This person is your rock, someone whose presence brings you comfort and support. Don’t shy away from wanting to spend more time with them. If anything, now’s the time to tell them how you really H feel. ■

IMAGES COURTESY OF FREEPIK

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TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

11

Valentine’s Grams Dear Tais, thank you for making the past four years at UCR enjoyable. I don’t know how I could have made the transition from online learning n due to COVID to the hectic in-perso so I’m . classes we now face together excited to graduate with you after the e spring quarter! Let’s continue to mak <3 UCR unforgettable memories at - Melanie

Day to ntine's who e l a V Happy zing people a and the am fe with love of i l h fill my teful for eac u a r yo g joy — ry day! Love na! e v a Bri n you e ky and c i R , .

Mom - Lily A

Thank you for be est frie nds a g ing the besti r lc I love y ou both an ask for! wi heart! for Ma th all my di and Izzy Hey kin g, I like you.

Do you li We sho ke me? uld go o ut.

Thanks and goo dbye. - B ray Bray

lo! , Ange y a D ’s I’m ine any!!!

Valent Happy the first of m beautiful, y to Here’s to be with m soulmate. y ing so luck l, hardwork friend of 14 u f t t my the res though u for being er for o n t y r u k a o p n my Tha s ee y nd now wait to e! years a lives. I can’t e cream dat c i r r u v o u e o f o ld er n d go o han you cou n a n i a t ag B. ore you m !!!!!!! - Irene I love e n i imag

I wuv all my fwiends :) hits the gwiddy* - Dizzle

I phia! o S , y Da uch tine's ch! So m sn e l a u new yV ym Happ u so ver ing to the you! yo it to love m wr my love y day, a I t r s a so th to expres r face eve time! s u r e o h y p ! g ht i pa seein et throug ednesday s s i m g W I l alene wi l e you but w wait to se ! Happy V y . 't I can e you, bab ! - Alex L I lov ine's Day t

Hi Carlie , Marcos a Adam!! Y ou guys h nd ave been the bestes t of love you a the besties <3 I ll so so m uch and I’m really gra y’all in m teful to have y life. Lov e you guys!!!

- Elani

Happy Anniversary and Valentine's, pookie bear <3 - Juliana

Dear eryth Angelo, Ia in spen g I have i dore you d the n w rest o me. I ho ith evat my p f e f o u that w ur liv ture fund cat es e b You'r ecause yo sanctuar together y tha u lov e my t you date; e me bigge I’m so st charm so prou accompli so much you a ing and d of the s shment t . ma o re. dis ner! So excite ciplined rt, funny, P.S. W man d for that our V ill yo ub -D - Val e my Va ay dinlentin eria T . e?

Mi a Day. mor, Hap Ma py ful as y this on Valentine e 's y you d ou, as m be as bea u a eserv g t e. Te nificent a iamo s Eric chula G. -

To B, for funding my romance book addiction, being the best Valorant duo and making me smile every day. I love you <3 - Anonymous

, past to To my dearest A… you are g I’ve hin present to future, everyt g I’ve hin ever hoped for and everyt in up ed ever dreamed of, wrapp s, gh lau a beautiful mess of goofy . etc , iles tangled curls, radiant sm ate col cho I love you like you love cake. Irresistible. - H

I may n ot h my life ave words to impres i s I’m tru s complete, n o less / / But with yo ly bless u ed / W In joy, distress ithout in spirit , / When y o , u bright , my hea you’re /Y c does th et I must hid lose, re re aw rt is in e it / O e night ur drea akes, so /But w Though ms w it h y now w e hide, ou, my world ait, as where our bo t ’s aligh ime wi nd t. ll too, wi ll see th ’s in plain sig write / A tale ht / Ou e light / Em r par they’ll bracing us, ou ents, invite. r unity - Anon ymous

To my boyfriend: I love you!

You are one of the most giving souls, and you have so much love to share. I’m so grateful for you, and I can’t wait for our future together. Happy Valentine’s Day!! - Natalie U.

Hi Jack! I love you so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so so much <3 Happy Valentine’s Day!

- Emily C.

To the extrem ely charming and handsome video ed itor at the Hig hlander…. I think you hav e to be the mos t perfect man I’ve ever met in my life. Pre tty forward, I know, but I ca n’t help it ther e is somethin about you that g is unlike any other….. maybe we cou ld go out som etime? From your secret ad mirer ~SGG~ (it’s me, Sophia, and I lo ve you very m uch <3!!!!)

- Sophia G.

Nat, I’m so proud of you and everything you’ve accomplished. I love you!

- Michael L. ea You must b To Brody : olen st use you've rogue beca Lidia love you! I t! r a e h y m

Hey isa, th anks for being my d ay one!

I’m so grate ful to have your laugh s in my life :) Happy G alentine’s <3 - Sofie G .

12 TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

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“For this was on Seynt Valentynes day” GEOFFREY CHAUCER AND THE ORIGINS OF VALENTINE’S DAY.

REBECCA SUN Contributing Writer

Very few people are aware of the dark and conflicting origins of Valentine’s Day: the Roman tradition involved a brutal feast called Lupercalia, where women were put in rather precarious situations. The Romans were also responsible for the name honored for the day when Emperor Claudius II executed two priests, both of whom were named Valentine, for performing forbidden marriages. It wasn’t until the 14th century that the day was popularized as a day of love as writers and poets began romanticizing it in their works. One of these writers was none other than Geoffrey Chaucer.

Also known as the “father of English literature,” Chaucer was arguably one of the most famous authors during the Middle Ages. He wrote a plethora of works ranging from adventure tales to a retelling of the Trojan War with his most notable novel being “The Canterbury Tales.”

The first recorded association of romantic love to Valentine’s Day came from Chaucer’s “Parlement of Foules,” a 700-hundred-line poem in the form of a dream vision.

This poem is written in rhyme royal, a distinctive seven-line stanza in iambic pentameter. As you would know, middle English — due to its grammar, pronunciation and extensive borrowing of vocabulary from French and Latin — is drastically different than our modern-day English, and thus more difficult to understand. [ Agon, hit happed me for to beholde Upon a boke, was write with lettres olde And ther-upon, a certeyn thing to lerne ] The poem can be divided into three parts: a prelude to the dream, a scene in the garden and a meeting with the birds. In the first couple of stanzas, the narrator positions themselves as someone in search of love, detailing “a certeyn thing to lerne” and goes on to summarize Marcus Cicero’s book “The Dream of Scipio,” a dream vision novel of the Roman general, Scipio Aemilianus.

The dream begins when the narrator falls asleep and Scipio guides him to a celestial gate through the temple and garden of Venus. This place is filled with a band of doomed lovers and the goddess of Nature — a stand-in for the goddess of love — uses her judgment to mate off birds. It is helpful to note that the title of the poem, which literally translates into “The Parliament of Birds,” uses anglo-French and English words: parlement is from the French word parler meaning “to talk” and foules from the Middle English word, fowl, meaning “a bird of any kind.” With that, Chaucer uses the gathering of mating between English birds as a comparison to how the process of humans choosing a lover is an innate one. As a result, the construction of Valentine’s Day is during February because it is the one moment of the year when those birds come together to find their love. Below, you can read the main stanzas where Valentine’s Day is mentioned in the poem:

309 For this was on Seynt Valentynes day, Whan every foul cometh ther to chese his make, Of every kinde, that men thynke may; And that so huge a noyse gan they make, That erthe and see, and tree, and every lake So ful was, that unnethe was ther space 315 For me to stonde, so ful was al the place. ] The stanza starting on line 302 introduces the goddess of Nature as being “upon an hill(e) of floures (flowers),” ready to use her “craft” on all fouls who come to her presence for “doom” (judgment). This event takes place on “Seynt Valentynes day,” where every bird of mankind “cometh there to chese (choose) his make (mate).” Chaucer then describes how the overwhelming amount of birds make a great deal of “noyse” (noise) that there wasn’t even space for him to stand.

Professor Andrea Denny-Brown, who specializes in medieval literature in the English department, provided me with more insight into the poem. From a historical standpoint, the poem is “often read as an allegory for this particular moment in British history” where “he’s critiquing the social order that only allows the royals to choose their mates first.” This particular moment in history, noted by Brown, was one of big social change and strife between the upper and lower classes. This was due to the British Parliament’s reluctance to change their feudal system to address the labor shortage in the aftermath of the Black Death. Ironically, Chaucer was in service to the king and queen and was paid to write stories for (and was even a member of) Parliament for some time, so he had to play with his political opinions discreetly or else he’d have his head chopped off!

Springtime was also a subject that greatly concerned Chaucer. Professor DennyBrown sees Chaucer’s evocation of all the springtime imagery in the poem as “a sort of poetic, pastoral manifestation of what happens in the springtime in terms of reproductive ambition.” All the flowery verses about nature are pretty to read about, but his interest in springtime coupling of birds helps us understand our own springtime urges.

Lastly, at the end of the poem, when a female eagle ends up not choosing a mate at all, Chaucer not only critiques the idea that one has to choose a mate at all but also reverses H gender roles as the “woman has the power of rejection here.” ■

[ 302 And in a launde, upon an hille of floures, Was set this noble goddesse Nature; Of braunches were hir halles and hir boures, Y-wrought after hir craft and hir mesure; Ne ther nas foul that cometh of engendrure, That they ne were prest in hir presence, 308 To take hir doom and yeve hir audience.

COURTESY OF ADOBE

COURTESY OF PEXELS

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Vintage Valentines SAYING ‘I LOVE YOU’ LIKE THE VICTORIANS. SENNA OMAR Managing Editor

Love in the digital age is boring. Before the ebb of modern technology, people used to show each other their love with romantic and dramatic gestures. This year, bring back extravagant expressions of love, not just on Valentine’s Day, but every day. Every day should be Valentine’s Day if you really care.

Long gone are the days of true romantic gestures. If your significant other hands you some generic heart-shaped candy box from Walmart with an ugly Hallmark card that has Cupid on the cover, just know your partner secretly hates you. The effort is not in the same room as the ugly box of bad chocolate.

The more period piece-esque your gesture is, the better! This Valentine’s Day, try some of these vintage Victorian traditions to declare your undying love.

Write a letter – wax seal her

Instead of texting them some lame paragraph about how much you care about them, grab a pen and paper and write a love letter. Fifty years from now, if the planet lasts that long, when you show your grandkids the history of your love, all you’re gonna have is screenshots of someone sliding into your Direct Messages (DMs). With a love letter, the feelings you have for a person are tangible — maybe even try writing a love poem.

Whatever you do, the effort is telling with this one and your lover will appreciate the gesture regardless of how bad you are with words.

Vinegar Valentine letter

If love letters are not your cup of tea, try a hate one. Valentine’s Day was not only a day of celebrating love; the Victorians used this day to express all emotions, even deepseated loathing. If you are feeling like a hater this year, try a vinegar valentine. These hate letters are an easy way to get rid of unwanted romantic attention from that one dude who won’t take no for an answer. So write some hate mail outlining all the things you despise about that special someone.

Learn the language of flowers

Everything for Victorians was dramatic; it was a rather popular Valentine’s Day tradition to send a coded message to your lover in a bouquet of flowers. To learn more about the language of flowers, turn to page 14 and read “Roses are red, violets are blue; here is what flowers say about you” by Brenda Jovel.

Pin your lover’s name to your shirt — literally wear your heart on your sleeve

During the Roman festival of Lupercalia, a Valentine’s Day festival celebrated in mid-February, women would literally pin the name of their lovers to their sleeves. This tradition has evolved over the years; however, the concept remains the same — literally, wear your love on your sleeve. Show the world you are taken and pin the name of your Valentine to your clothes this year to prove your devotion.

Singular glove to represent your love

Again with the drama! In old-timey days Victorian men would send a singular glove to their lovers and if, on Easter, the lover was found wearing the glove it meant they reciprocated the love. Send your lover one glove and if they wear it, they want you to!

This year try harder! Valentine’s Day is a day of showing the person you love that you truly care, so make sure to put in a little bit of effort so they don’t leave you at the altar in 10 years. Happy loving campers! If you’re single … stay safe out in these streets H this Wednesday; the love will make you want to gouge your eyes out.■

Puzzle Purse

A puzzle purse is an origami-esc folded paper craft. As the recipient unfolds each corner of the puzzle purse, a sweet poem, drawing, or reason the person who sent it loves you is unveiled. So fold up a piece of paper, number the corners, and this year tell the story of why you love them in origami.

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The G.O.A.T. of all galentines: A guide to creating an iconic time for the girls WHETHER YOU’RE IN YOUR “HOSTESS GIRL ERA” OR SIMPLY TRYING TO SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH THE LADIES, HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE TIME. MARIBEL GAMEZ-REYES Assistant Features Editor

Marking the unofficial but recognized day of Galentines on Feb. 13, you can extend your celebration of friendships throughout the week of Valentine’s. This alternative or bonus holiday, depending on your Valentine’s Day plans, originated from “Parks and Recreation,” an NBC sitcom. The main protagonist of the show sets the bar high by showering her friends with gifts such as hand-crocheted flower pens, customized portraits made from the bottle of each person’s favorite soda, and a long personalized essay of why she values their friendship as the cherry on top. All of this just goes to show that you don’t have to break the bank to have a genuinely good time. Social media’s portrayal of holidays might make it seem like you need to do a lot, but if you’re truly in the presence of good company, then anything from simple to extravagant will suffice.

Here are some customizable ideas to take inspiration from, catering to going all out in an affordable and doable manner.

Affirmations Bar

If you’re always rooting for your girls, then this one’s for you! After purchasing a pack of fillable plastic hearts online, candy of your choice, and cute paper boxes, you’re going to brainstorm a list of categories that you believe will benefit your friends in affirming themselves. You know your friends best, so take some time to reflect and pick your top five from the list. A couple of pillars you can consider are motivation, encouragement, comfort and grace. Take some creative liberty on how you want to label the exterior of your hearts; you can simply write it with a marker or go as far as painting the category on it. Once you’ve done that, browse online for affirmations that fall into the categories you’ve picked out and place them in a Google document. The next step is up to you; printing your affirmations and cutting them accordingly will be easier, but if you want a more immersive experience, then feel free to handwrite them.

Reaching the final steps, place your affirmations inside their corresponding catego-

rized hearts, and fill the boxes as you see fit. Don’t forget to include the candy in the boxes, or you could just have an individual bowl for that separately. You’re all done, but now it comes down to your presentation of it. You could frame a letter explaining the niche — when life gets you down, the affirmations are here to lift you back up, or you could give a dramatic, slightly cringe monologue that will get your friends laughing but appreciating your efforts. This activity might not be the craziest, wildest night you’ve ever had, but it’s wholesome in letting all of your friends know you care.

B.Y.O.B — Bring your own board (Galentine’s Edition)

Whether it’s a pizza board, candy board, cocktail board, or a simple charcuterie board, the options are endless! Take a detour to Pinterest and look for inspiration in what others have done. If nothing catches your eye, consider looking at vision boards to try and emulate the vibe. Consider what you have at your disposal. If you have wine bottles lingering around your kitchen setup, or you have an ample amount of dining dollars left to spend a concerning amount on candy, then you’ve got everything you need to contribute to a great time.

Decorating miniature cakes

If you’re a fan of British bake-off shows and a connoisseur of sweet treats, indulge your creative touch as a cake decorator for the night! In preparation, you’ll first need to make a trip to your local grocery store. The most convenient option is to buy an inexpensive pre-made cake and explore the baking aisle and its grandiose selection of sprinkles and frosting. Ideally, you are aiming to make this cake go from “rags to riches” in its appearance. If you’re feeling fancy though, you can also attempt making a cake from scratch! ■ H

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Roses are red, violets are blue; here is what flowers say about you DISCOVER WHICH FLOWER DESCRIBES YOU THE BEST THIS LOVE SEASON. BRENDA JOVEL Editor-in-Chief

Flowers can be a heartwarming gift to many and represent various meanings through their colors. Each person is unique, like these flowers’ meanings, so find out below which one applies to you the most! This could also be a nudgenudge to that special someone to give you the perfect flowers for Valentine’s Day. If you consider yourself a romantic at heart with hues of passion, the red rose will be your perfect pair. Red roses symbolize romance and are practically the most recognizable flower for Valentine’s Day. They are alluring, timeless and sentimental; these qualities enhance your ability to bring out your emotions in their most honest forms. You know how to listen to others and take the time to sit down with your sweethearts or gals to make them feel like the most special person in the world.

Your heart is beautiful and your soul is rich. There is a unique charm about your words, and there are many who admire you — maybe even envy too. The red rose is a special kind of beauty that perfectly captures your splendor.

Valentine’s Day isn’t strictly for relationships. Endearing friendships can also be celebrated during the season of love, and if you’re someone who cares deeply for their gals — or pookie-bears — pink tulips represent you. Pink tulips often signify care and when given to someone, can mean good luck and prosperity. You care deeply for your friendships and often remain loyal to your closest friends who return their care to you. You most likely have a Pinterest board dedicated to Do-itYourself (DIY) gifts for your besties that you can hand-make with love and affection. Friendships are worth celebrating this Valentine’s Day, so go ahead with

your pink tulips and deliver them to your closest friends.

Negative Nancys, it’s time to take a step back, respectfully. Being generally happy is a bonus nowadays in life, and if you find yourself smiling at the little things, the sunflower represents you perfectly. These golden rays of sunshine symbolize prosperity and optimism and can reflect upon your abundance of stellar friendships or general happiness. Their vibrant yellow color is joyous and cheerful, like you.

Finding joy in the smallest things is your best quality, and you always manage to put a smile on someone’s face whenever they are feeling down. Sunflowers and you go well together, so it’s time to embrace their sunshine into your open arms.

For the brave souls out there, purple irises encapsulate your courageous personality. You’re probably the friend who always leads the group into a Halloween maze, or you are outlandishly honest that you aren’t afraid to vocalize your opinion.

Though the purple iris looks delicate in its petals and shades of purple, it embodies strength and wisdom. People shouldn’t underestimate you, and better yet, you shouldn’t underestimate yourself. You are strong-willed in character and have a clear head when it comes to problem-solving.

The purple iris and you are like two strong peas in a pod, inseparable and united as one.■ H

Make, don’t buy, your Valentine’s Day gifts this year!

EIGHT DIY GIFTS TO MAKE FOR YOUR PARTNER FOR THIS SPECIAL OCCASION. NOLA PERIFEL Contributing Writer

Valentine’s Day is coming up and finding a gift to buy for your partner is always challenging — try making one instead! You’ll save money and your significant other will feel extra touched by the gesture, so here’s a list of several DoIt-Yourselfs (DIYs) to help inspire you.

“Open When” letters This gift is a pack of letters that are assigned to many different types of events and are filled with whatever is fitting for such occasions. Your partner can open the correct one when each event occurs. Some Open When letters can be “open when you first get this,” “open when you are sad,” “open when we got into a fight,” “open when you miss me,” etc. You can fill these letters with inspiring/motivational, comforting or apologetic words, jokes and memories, depending on the theme of the letter that you are writing.

Memories scrapbook This DIY is a great way to travel back through memory lane. You can fill it with pictures of you two, favorite songs of yours, locations you would like to visit together, etc. If you have been to movies, concerts, amusement parks, zoos, etc, and have kept the tickets, you can also add them to your scrapbook. Creating such a personal gift gives you the freedom to make it as special as possible for your partner. If you fill it with inside jokes and memories, this gift will be sure to make your partner’s day. And if you want to do a collaborative activity, you could even gather and gift your partner

the supplies to make the project together.

Love coupons jar In this DIY, fill a mason jar with free coupons for tasks that your partner can use anytime. For example, you can make coupons for free massages, a restaurant date, breakfast in bed, being pampered, movie night, etc. This is a great way to offer your time and services to your loved one to relieve them from stress.

If you want this project to be less work, you can print out the cards, but for a nicer touch, handwrite the coupons on cute stationery.

Couple time capsule During Valentine’s Day, you and your beau can fill a time capsule of things that will become memories once you open it months or years later. You can put letters that you have written for each other to be opened by your future selves, pictures of you both, a list of places you would like to visit together or things you would like to do, etc. This idea is similar to the scrapbook, but opening it years later will let you revisit your younger selves from months or years ago with your partner.

It can help you see if your goals have been fulfilled and if you have seen and traveled to all the places you dreamed about in the past.

You can also reopen the time capsule several Valentine’s Days later so that you can have another romantic activity to do in a few years.

Traditional love letter An extremely romantic Valentine’s gift that could bring a smile to your partner’s face, although fairly straightforward, is a

traditional love letter. Pouring out your feelings onto a page is one of the best ways to show love on Valentine’s Day. By giving them a heartfelt letter to show your appreciation for your loved one, you can make Cupid’s day even more romantic!

Baked goods or homemade dinner Another way to show your partner some love on Valentine’s Day is by putting effort into making food for them. Baking them cookies, pastries or a very nice dinner can make a great Valentine’s Day gift that’s very cost-effective! If you choose to cook them dinner, it can also make for a great stay-at-home date.

make. You can add things like restaurants or specific foods (ex: Italian vs. Japanese food), movies to watch (e.g. “Notting Hill” vs. “The Notebook”), activities to do together (e.g. painting vs. video games), etc…

These gift ideas are only a few DIYs that you can make for your partner to make your Valentine’s Day special. But any gift you tailor to their tastes and personalize for them with aspects of your relationship will be a H surefire way to make your Valentine smile. ■

“52 things I love about you” card deck For this project, you will need a card deck and some paint to decorate each card and write down 52 different reasons you love your partner. Decorating these cards with your and your partner’s tastes will make this gift extremely special, as it shows the time and effort that went into creating it. By making a personal craft, like all of these on the list, you can represent your love with a physical keepsake.

This or that card choice date night game This last DIY is a great way to have fun with your partner. Write different date choices on separate note cards for your partner to randomly choose to design an unexpected and original date night. Start by making your partner choose a cute date location (e.g. the beach vs. the park) and then use your creativity to choose what other cards you will IMAGES COURTESY OF PEXELS

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TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

The top ten 2000s romantic comedies

Look no further for the perfect Valentine’s Day movie inspiration.

NATALIE DAHL Features Editor

If you live for the age of movies starring Amanda Bynes and Channing Tatum, read on. Side note; if “Love Actually” hits the spot you’re craving in a romantic film, stop reading this list right now. The best era of romantic comedies lands smack-dab at the start of the 21st century, right around when a lot of us undergraduates were firstborn. So if you haven’t explored the wonders of an early 2000s romcom, here’s a guide for you to dip your toes in.

1. “10 Things I Hate About You” This 1999 film is the perfect pseudo-enemies-to-lovers choice for those who crave a good Shakespeare movie adaptation. This movie is number one in the top ten overall favorites because of how strongly loveable (and hateable) the characters are. Additionally, Kat Stratford, our strong-willed protagonist, does not have to compromise her values or her stubborn personality to be loved. This is a great reminder around Valentine’s Day that you don’t have to tone yourself down to “be attractive” to others.

6. “Princess Diaries 2” Though everyone loves watching young Anne Hathway transform from an ugly duckling to a lady of society in the first film, she shines in finding her true love in the second film of this series. Everyone loves watching Chris Pine transform from a plotting enemy to a trusted lover, and Julie Andrews playing the queen that she already embodies is just the cherry on top.

7. “The Wedding Planner” JLo and Matthew McConaughey shine in this unexpected and forbidden romance plot; the chemistry between this career woman and the man whose wedding she’s planning is off the charts. Though it contains a predictable plot, you can’t ask for more out of this timeless comfort where you know the characters will get together in the end.

2. “A Cinderella Story” A classic “Cinderella” story is always a good pick for a Valentine’s Day watch.

You can’t get more 2000s than this campy comedy starring Hillary Duff; what teen wouldn’t dream of showing up to the ball (high school dance) to be serenaded by a prince (a high school jock). Spending your time watching this film will not be like waiting for rain in a drought, which Duff iconically categorizes in the movie as “useless and disappointing.”

8. “Letters to Juliet” This lesser-known rom-com does not get enough love for how sweet and unique of a story it provides. Though a lot of Shakespeare-related recommendations have been offered in this list, stay with me. The film follows a young girl in Italy who travels across the country trying to reunite old lovers who lost their chance with each other long ago. If you want a heartwarming story with a touch of adventure, this is the one for you.

3. “She’s the Man” Quirky deceits, physical humor and witty dialect run rampant in this adaptation of “Twelfth Night.” The comedy in the story is top-notch; misunderstanding after misunderstanding keeps audiences engaged and laughing until the end. Though the movie tries to ignore it, the complicated love triangles (and love squares) our protagonist Viola explores while changing her gender expression provide a breath of fresh air in the sometimes rampant sexism and homophobia portrayed in this era of films.

9. “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” This movie is an exception to the list because it was made in 2018, but it must be included because of how wonderful of a story it tells. The plot resonated so well with many teen and young adult women because it showed a raw side of navigating your first relationship. Lara Jean showed audiences that it is better to take risks and try out love in the real world rather than hiding behind the pages of romance books; though the road may not always be easy (cough cough the second and third movies), as long as you try, you’ll figure it out.

4. “The Parent Trap” (1998 version) Though this movie isn’t always thought of as a romantic comedy, it’s definitely a fresh spin on how old lovers can reconnect (even if they need the help of twin young red-headed Lindsay Lohans). Though the film does run over two hours, the schemes and charm of the daughters are a good choice for Valentine’s Day if you’re looking for a film that’s not too gushy.

5. “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” A perfect pairing of a woman trying to get a man to break up with her in ten days and a man trying to get a woman to fall in love with him in ten days — nothing could be better. The situational comedy in this film makes for an even more satisfying ending when the characters prevail against the unfortunate situation trying to keep them apart.

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10. “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” If you find yourself thirsting over the hot dad in the “All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” trilogy, travel back in time to 2002 to gawk over the young, long-haired John Corbett. Another classic that stood the test of time because of its resounding message of finding love while staying true to yourself and your culture. The film also doesn’t follow the normal format of love being the main plotline; the story weaves romance into the narrative of Toula and Ian’s regular lives, which is just how love works in the real world.

Honorable Mentions: “Ella Enchanted,” “Maid in Manhattan,” “Sydney White,” “Rosaline” and “Legally Blonde.”■ H

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‘Lisa Frankenstein’ — a bold swing (of an ax) and a miss

Diablo Cody’s latest screenplay has some good moments but ultimately fails to land anywhere.

RAMITA SETTY Staff Writer

In 2009, “Jennifer’s Body” came out and had a lukewarm box office performance with mixed reviews from critics who complained that the tone and writing of the film were uneven. Screenwriter Diablo Cody lamented how the film had been marketed. She had argued with executives who wanted “to market this to boys who like Megan Fox.” She would rebut, “No! This is a movie for girls too!” In 2018, however, there started to be a shift in the way “Jennifer’s Body” was perceived, with many labeling it a feminist cult classic. The way the film grappled with Jennifer taking revenge upon her male attackers resonated a lot with women in the wake of #MeToo. Now, Diablo Cody’s newest film, “Lisa Frankenstein,” hit theaters on Feb. 9, and it appears to exist in the same dimension as “Jennifer’s Body” in that it centers on a teenage girl who’s not afraid of getting her hands a little bloody. Indeed, Cody stated that “Lisa Frankenstein” actually takes place in the same universe as “Jennifer’s Body.” The movie follows Lisa (Kathryn Newton) in the 1980s, who wishes for a dead boy (Cole Sprouse) to come back to life and be her boyfriend — which happens. But he finds himself in need of some new live body parts, which Lisa obligingly provides — with an ax.

“Lisa Frankenstein” seems, on a surface level, to resemble “Jennifer’s Body,” with all of the blood and gore you would want from the writer of “Jennifer’s Body.” The main problem is that “Jennifer’s Body,” for all of its Twilight-esque edginess, touched upon genuine themes that affected teenage girls; sexual assault, the relationship between female friends, etc. “Lisa Frankenstein” doesn’t seem interested in that. And just being a fun movie would be fine, but it doesn’t quite succeed at that either.

The costumes are gorgeous. All of Lisa’s stylings do a wonderful job of emphasizing both Lisa’s personality and the absurd, over-the-top tone of the movie. The production design of the film also feels very reminiscent of Tim Burton movies in the best way possible. Newton is committed to the movie’s humor and sells it as well as she can. Sprouse tries to be charming and succeeds sometimes. Their performances sadly don’t help the

fact that their characters are not much more than archetypes from 80s teen movies and not much more. Throughout the movie, they are both trying to carry this paper-thin movie forward.

The problem lies in the writing. The script draws upon older teen classics such as “Heathers,” but it doesn’t commit enough to that direction to reach the heights that the film did. It all culminates in a third act that feels all over the place and lacks tension.

Overall, it’s disappointing how the film feels too scared to go places that would give the script some punch. A predictable plot wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world, but the film also finds itself in dire need of more of its other fun elements to be stronger for it.

Instead, the jokes don’t feel as fully out there as you’d expect from a teen murder movie.

That doesn’t mean there are no unredeemable factors. Liza Soberano is fun as Lisa’s annoying stepsister and is a breath of fresh air every time she appears in the movie. Lisa and her boyfriend’s zany antics are still fun, even if they aren’t as over-the-top as they could be in a movie like this. Zelda Williams’ direction makes watching this movie a brisk affair, ensuring that you get the most for your time. Overall, it’s not a bad way to spend two hours at a movie theater, but this isn’t a movie that absolutely needs to be seen in theaters.

Feel free to watch it, but if it’s a gory female-centric teen horror film you want to see, H maybe just give “Jennifer’s Body” a rewatch. ■

Verdict: “Lisa Frankenstein” almost succeeds in reanimating the almost-dead corpse of gore-filled campy teen flicks, but is a few appendages short of a good movie.

DISTRIBUTED BY FOCUS FEATURES

Radar Replay: ‘Millennium Actress’: A lifetime on the silver screen.

Here’s to the artists and dreamers.

LUKE LIAO Staff Writer

Spoilers With a limitless medium in his hands and the ingeniousness to match it, Satoshi Kon produced some of animation’s most unforgettable work. In just nine years, the animator made four feature films, one television series and one short film — and though his life was tragically cut short in 2010, his stamp on the animation and filmmaking world had already been sealed. His films can be generalized by his fascination with fiction and reality, but Kon demonstrated incredible versatility in subject matter from internet-age voyeurism, found family and dreams and nightmares. His sophomore film, “Millennium Actress,” is an attestation to cinema’s quintessence to life. It’s Kon’s most emotional and celebratory work.

The film opens at Ginei Studios, a major Japanese film studio that is being demolished after seventy decades of business. In the wake of this, director Genya Tachibana decided to make a documentary about the studio’s most esteemed actress, Chiyoko Fujiwara, whom he has a deep admiration for. When Genya meets the legendary actress, now reclusive and unwell, he gives her a key (the MacGuffin) which unlocks her memories and sets the narrative in motion. Through episodes of Chiyoko’s life, it’s revealed that during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Chiyoko saved the life of a mysterious man who was on the run for political activism. The man, indebted to her, promises to meet after the war. It’s this promise that convinces Chiyoko to star in films with the hope that the man will recognize her.

Throughout many decades and many different film genres, Kon bleeds fiction and reality in Chiyoko’s life. In a handful of scenes, Chiyoko runs or calls out to someone who we suspect to be the mystery man. The emotion in her voice and the desperation on her face convince us of this, but the person is revealed to be a character in a movie. Kon accomplishes this by zooming out to disclose a camera crew or using the interjection of someone else, a scene partner. This interplay of fiction and reality is depicted in many other clever ways that would be too lengthy to describe, so, in short, it’s Kon’s atemporal

storylines held together by rhythmic editing that maintains the plausibility. In doing so, Kon manages to capture an artistic truth: the inseparability of life and art. We know that Chiyoko, like all artists, projects herself and her lived experience onto her art. Kon connotes that film is just another level of reality.

Across all of this, Genya is never relegated to a passive player once the interview commences. In fact, in almost every one of Chiyoko’s memories, he’s present — from scenes of her unsatisfying marriage to the set of her films. In these film sets and sound stages, Genya humorously appears as characters who interact with Chiyoko. For example, in a Chanbara or samurai film (a homage to “Throne of Blood”), he plays the actress’ guardian, goofily proclaiming his duty to protect her. Genya and his wholesome enthusiasm are played for levity in a story colored by melancholy — it’s only later that his character gains another dimension and justification for his ardor. This happens when he tells Chiyoko that he worked on her films’ sets as an assistant, never quite reaching the ranks of director, but admiring from afar nonetheless. With this addition to his character, the documentarian becomes a proper surrogate for the audience and those who also dream of a life in film. Compared to the many films that concern the parasocial or thorny relationship between star and audience — Kon’s “Perfect Blue” revolves around this — it’s affirming to see one bound by reverence and wonder instead.

Many times in the film, people convince Chiyoko that her chase of this man is fruitless, mentioning how brief the two met or the severe punishment political dissidents faced during the war. We regretfully come to understand, just as much as Chiyoko knows intuitively, that the romantic dream is impractical — something like this only happens in movies. In the final minutes, after reminiscing about her life, Chiyoko accepts this. The actress understands that she’s spent so much time looking forward to that moment that she’s overlooked the momentous life she has lived. The ending can be initially off-putting by its briefness, especially after witnessing a lifetime, but as Chiyoko states in the killer final line: “After all, it’s the chasing after him I really loved,” demonstrating that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most. ■ H

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Class is back in session with ‘Abbott Elementary’s’ third season ABC’s sitcom returns on a high note, reminding viewers why it’s so successful.

KIMBERLY BEJEC Assistant Radar Editor

Mockumentaries have consistently been successful for American television with well-known sitcoms such as “The Office,” “Modern Family” and “Parks and Recreation.”

The American Broadcasting Company (ABC) introduced another mockumentary sitcom, “Abbott Elementary.” on Dec. 7, 2021. Since its initial release, the series has garnered plenty of positive reviews and attraction from viewers. Fans were eagerly awaiting the season’s three premiere, especially with the delay from the Writers Guild of America strike impacting production. On Feb. 7, 2024, season three finally had its two-episode premiere, with new episodes airing every Wednesday on ABC or streaming on Hulu.

The workplace comedy takes place in Willard R. Abbott Elementary, an underfunded and predominantly Black public school in Philadelphia. A documentary crew follows the lives of the teachers, such as optimistic second-grade teacher Janine Teagues, played by the show’s creator, Quinta Brunson. Among the rest of the teachers, the cast includes Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams), Principal Ava Coleman (Janelle James), Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter), Jacob Hill (Chris Perfetti), Barbara Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph) and Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis). Although the conditions at the school are harsh due to the poor funding, the teachers try their best to help their students succeed.

Season two of the show did not leave things on a cliffhanger, but it did leave fans wanting more. The “will-they-won’t-they” trope and slow burn between Janine and Gregory is one of the more anticipated moments of the show. The chemistry between the two has fans excited to see how things will unfold for them. At the end of season two, the pair finally confess their feelings, but, in a mature decision, Janine decides to focus on herself first before dating again after having recently ended a long-term relationship.

Besides their relationship, season two featured more moments that looked deeper into the character’s personal lives and development.

The two-part episode starts by cleverly blaming the five-month hiatus due to the camera crew’s equipment being stolen and needing months to get new equipment. The season’s starter, “Career Day Part 1 and 2,” jumps between five months ago and the present day. Before the hiatus, a team from the school district shadows the school to see how they can help improve the curriculum. They take an interest in Janine and offer her a fellowship to work with them. Meanwhile, the hilarious and oblivious principal Ava, known for her typical aloof behavior at work, starts to take her job seriously after spending her summer at Harvard. She starts to change things up, such as moving desks around, preventing the teachers from taking lunch breaks to watch the kids and doing her job. As a result, the rest of the teachers make multiple attempts to return her to her normal and careless self.

Back to the present, the school features a new special day at the school as they make

their first attempt at career day. As this was Janine’s plan, she stressed with the planning as she raced around to make sure it went smoothly. Meanwhile, one of the other teachers, Melissa Schemmenti, gets suspicious of her boyfriend possibly planning to propose to her despite her absolute refusal to get married again. Even with the jam-packed season three trailer, fans were quick to notice the tension lingering between Gregory and Janine, which made them eager for answers in the premiere. Viewers were sure to keep a close eye on any scenes between the two in hopes that they finally get together. The show also featured cameo appearances from NFL’s Eagles: Jalen Hurts, Jason Kelce and Brandon Graham. It’s a cameo that had the characters themselves freaking out over due to them being huge fans of their city’s football team.

The season premiere went off with a bang as it finally returned. The show reminded viewers why the show was so good by remaining strong on its best qualities. The writers of “Abbott Elementary” showcase their talented wit and skills through funny moments and jokes that get audiences slapping their knees with laughter. Writing the time jump-in was a creative way to hint about the writer’s strike without being too on the nose. The show excels in its comedic timing of moments, actors’ delivery of their lines and classic side eyes from the characters to the camera.

Besides the very creative writing, the sitcom excels in its array of actors who do an excellent job portraying their characters. Besides the chemistry between Brunson and Williams for their characters Janine and Gregory, respectively, the rest of the actors have immense chemistry with each other. This makes for wonderful scenes from their banter with each other and heartwarming moments. All of their different personalities mesh well together, which makes their acting feel real. It also helps to embody real teachers so well for their hard work and caring personalities toward students despite getting severely underpaid. The overall show has many layers that build upon its highlights, creating a H workplace comedy sitcom that embodies the roles of teachers. ■

Verdict: “Abbott Elementary” season three returns to remind viewers as to why the show is the comedic gold at its finest. Between the acting and writing, the show does not disappoint and is sure to be a comfort show for many.

Amazon Prime’s ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ is your new surprising favorite romance Shifting into a more intimate and compelling take on the original 2005 movie, the series’s new take is romantically fresh.

BRENDAN VO Radar Editor

This romantic holiday, Amazon Prime Video viewers can treat themselves to the new, sleek reboot of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” in the new eight-episode series starring Donald Glover and Maya Erskine. The new 2024 TV spin-off is a co-production by Amazon Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc (MGM) and New Regency, came hitting the ground, releasing all episodes on Feb. 2. The movie was created by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Glover himself, who first worked together on the “Star Wars” spin-off, “Solo: A Star Wars Story.” Waller-Bridge, however, would amicably exit the series due to creative differences and have her role recast with Erskine.

The series is based on the 2005 Doug Liman film starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, a story of a married couple who discover that they were both hired to assassinate each other by competing agencies. The star power and chemistry of the actors shined overwhelmingly in the original spy thriller and summer blockbuster — especially as their off-camera tumultuous romance would become a larger discussion than the movie. Regardless, the original proved to be an exciting and action-filled watch with two amazing actors.

The new series, then, paints the secret-spy couple in a wholly different, but shinier coat. Glover and Erskine, compared to the gorgeous Pitt and Jolie, are not the most conventionally beautiful people in the world, which only adds to the charm of their characters. The audience can project themselves on John and Jane as they navigate the dangers of their job. Donald Glover and Maya Erskine’s acting also sends the series to its heights.

Glover’s charisma bleeds into his character whereas Erskine’s subtle and graceful humor envelopes her performance.

Departing from the original Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie hit 2005 movie version, the story starts with John (Donald Glover) and Jane (Maya Erskine) Smith assigned to each

other to act as a married couple and carry out missions, in direct juxtaposition to Pitt’s and Jolie’s John and Jane being unaware of each other’s objective to kill the other. This decision would lead the show to focus more on the relationship between the two as the backbone and crux of the show lies predominantly in the relationship between John and Jane, rather than the action.

The series, then, feels more like it hinges on the romantic drama aspects of the writing rather than the action sequences of the show, which is no detriment at all — in fact, it arguably results in a more intimate take than the 2005 movie. John and Jane’s marriage serves as the catalyst and fuel for its drama, giving the series emotional arcs that feel like a mellow thriller, rather than a traditional high-speed action series. Small talk rules supreme and the motivations and intentions of the two spies are unraveled throughout the series. It is a different, yet more compelling take and it pays off to create a subtler, but more romantic watch.

However, if the 2005 movie and the 2024 series had to be compared purely on the action sequence, the 2024 series would lose. While we are treated to the usual car chases and hand-to-hand combat scenes, they don’t stand out in any way from your conventional action flick. If you’re looking for a “John Wick” -esque viewing experience, you will be left feeling disappointed after turning off the television.

Something that especially shines from the series is the theme of dichotomy, painting the pair as opposites that share crucial similarities while also paralleling the nature of spies with the nature of marriage. The two’s differences are used to contrast and join them in the unlikely pairing of their characters, making every victory and loss in the series more special.■ H

Verdict: If you are looking for a fresh take on the 2005 “Mr. And Mrs. Smith,” you will find it in the new 2024 reboot. The series is a pleasant and surprising departure from the original.

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RADAR

18 TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

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Best love songs of all time

Here are a few of the greatest love songs to ever grace the music industry for all you hopelessly romantic Highlanders.

STELA NOELLE ABASTA Contributing Writer

Both love and music are subjective, but there are love songs that simply transcend time. Here is a cohesive list of the tracks that you need as you celebrate love, fall in love or wish for love this Valentine’s season.

“Landslide” by Oh Wonder

This song is best known for rapper Lil Uzi Vert sampling it, but the original is much better. Oh Wonder is a duo that has been in a romantic relationship since the beginning of making music together, which was confirmed four years after this song was released.

It is no surprise that they were able to make one of the greatest love songs of all time.

The song came out about three years into their relationship, and listeners cannot even fathom how romantic it must have been to write, produce then sing to your significant other the lyrics “I know it hurts sometimes but / You’ll get over it” or “So when you’re caught in a landslide / I’ll be there for you.” Along with the lyrics, the beat is unbelievably catchy, and the chord progression tickles your brain in just the right way. Oh Wonder’s specialty of doubling vocals works perfectly in this song, intertwining their voices just like how the pair’s love for each other is intertwined to form this track.

“Get You (feat. Kali Uchis)” by Daniel Caesar

Everyone talks about “Best Part feat. H.E.R.” from Daniel Caesar’s album, “Freudian,” but it’s overplayed on TikTok and overused as a first dance song at weddings. What really should be on your rotation is this R&B record of love and loyalty, “Get You (feat.

Kali Uchis).” In an interview with Genius, Caesar describes it as a corny song when the bass comes in and with the kick pattern. He says, “I just feel like people aren’t making love songs like that anymore. I just wanted that but sexy.” He nailed it right on the head as this track is just the right amount of romantic and alluring, perfect for an intimate evening or a wholesome drive down the coast with your lover’s hand in yours.

The first verse is about him being thankful for every decision and every moment that it took to get to his girl’s side. He compares this person’s love to that of something so strong it can survive “through drought and famine, natural disasters.” Caesar downright worships this person with this song, and the unabashed and vulnerable love he exudes for her through the lyrics is dreamy. Continuing into the pre-chorus, he describes himself furthering his passion for his lover with each intimate moment he shares with her. In an interview with Billboard, Caesar explains that “Get You” is about “[b]eing with someone you truly adore and being present enough in the moment that the world literally slows down, and you ask yourself: ‘How did I stumble into this?’” And this, listeners, is the entire meaning of Valentine’s Day at its simplest — to celebrate being so content with another person that it makes you realize how lucky you are to have them.

“The Promise” by When In Rome

To save the best for last, this list ends with “The Promise” by When In Rome, a timeless new wave song from the 80s. The song starts with a rise of strings — like the song is being carried on the wind that has been blowing through Riverside as of late.

What follows are iconic piano chords before diving into deep synth lines that you can almost swim laps in. From the very first line, this throwback track establishes itself as the ultimate song for a friends-to-lovers relationship, which is, subjectively, the best trope ever. Following that, the catchy chorus goes, “I’m sorry but I’m just thinking of the right words to say / I know they don’t sound the way I plan them to be.” Here, the singer admits that he isn’t much of a romantic, but this person is worth the effort — worth fighting for.

However, not only does he go out of his comfort zone to confess his love to this person, but he also promises always to love them and be there for them, singing, “You know in the end / I’ll always be there.” The lyrics are phrased in a way that is so romantic that, even if the meaning has been used to death in every love song, it still feels so unique.

Ironically, keyboardist Michael Floreale believed the lyrics of the first verse and the chorus were inspired by a recent breakup singer Clive Farrington had gone through.

From wedding receptions to cruises on the coast, “The Promise” will be belted by lovers for generations to come. It is a track that can be played anywhere at any time and automatically makes you wish someone felt that strongly about you. If this nostalgic song isn’t one of the most, if not the most, romantic songs you have ever heard, there is H no way you should be allowed to celebrate Valentine’s Day. ■

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Sports

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SPORTS

TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

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Super Bowl rigging conspiracy theory is simply the latest attempt to blame Taylor Swift for something she has nothing to do with YSABEL NAKASONE Opinions Editor

Conspiracy theories are popping up that the 2024 Super Bowl is rigged as part of a significant political maneuver in favor of the Democratic Party.

The idea that Taylor Swift is in a conspiracy cahoot with the Democratic party to rig the Super Bowl is probably the most insane and unexpected theory 2024 could have cooked up, and it’s only February. As Swift continues on her Eras Tour, one that has become a cultural phenomenon, she’s also been attending Kansas City Chiefs games to support her partner, Travis Kelce, much to the chagrin of “a few dads, Brads and Chads.”

This innocuous behavior of supporting a significant other at an important career juncture has drawn the attention of everyone from presidential primary candidates to the Pentagon. There is no evidence to suggest that the Super Bowl is rigged, and these accusations invalidate the efforts of athletes who expend time, effort and money just to be a contender.

These accusations began after Jesse Watters, on his Fox News show “Jesse Watters Primetime,” played a video from a NATO Cooperative Cyber Defense Center of Excellence conference in 2019 where Swift was named as an example of a powerful influencer. Based on this random mention of Swift, Watters made unsubstantiated claims, in a galling display of journalistic malpractice, that “the Pentagon’s psychological operations unit floated turning Taylor Swift into an asset … for combating misinformation online.” These rumors have continued to gain ground despite plain denials by Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh and an incredibly weak body of evidence.

Adding fuel to the fire is a new theory that the actual Super Bowl game is rigged in favor of the Kansas City Chiefs. Previous Republican Candidate Vivek Ramaswamy

started this new line of thought after a tweet that insinuated Swift would be endorsing President Biden after a false win by the Chiefs. The signal boosting of these baseless allegations is casting a shadow on the hard work of the NFL and reducing a major industry event to a political game.

There is no denying that Swift has major influence and has, since 2018, made political endorsements and spoke publicly about her politics.

After posting on Instagram a message encouraging her fans to register to vote, the nonpartisan nonprofit Vote.org found itself with 35,000 new registered voters. A poll by Newsweek found that 18% of voters were open to being swayed by a potential endorsement by Swift. The New York Times also released a report that places Taylor Swift high on the list of endorsements the Biden campaign is seeking. Despite strong evidence that Swift is an influential public figure, there remains no evidence that supports the claim Swift, Kelce, or the NFL are complicit in any political or government operations.

Since Swift and Kelce have made their relationship public, Swift has also been inundated with criticism and made a scapegoat for any losses or failures by the Chiefs. It’s unclear why an international pop star and culture icon is responsible for the wins and losses of a Kansas football team.

Still, somehow, it’s a national concern that she can control the trajectory of the entirety of the NFL. ■ H IMAGES COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

UC Riverside defeats CSU Bakersfield 54-48 in a back-andforth contest ISAAC SOLNICK Staff Writer

Highlanders complete season sweep of the Roadrunners.

After a comfortable 70-46 win against the winless Cal State Northridge Matadors, the Highlanders were in for a tougher test on the road against Cal State Bakersfield (CSUB).

Earlier in the season, UCR rallied in the 3rd quarter to set up a dramatic 64-62 comeback win against the Roadrunners.

This matchup featured the top two scorers in the Big West. 5 foot 5 inches, Shaunae Brown is the engine of the Roadrunners’ offense. What the redshirt junior guard lacks in height, she makes up for in range. Brown is an elite sharpshooter with the green light to shoot from everywhere.

For the Highlanders, senior guard Jordan Webster leads the conference in scoring. In the previous matchup, the Roadrunners couldn’t find an answer for her. Webster dropped a career-high 31 points, scoring at all three levels with great efficiency.

Right from tip-off, Bakersfield looked to set up Brown for open looks. After two straight offensive rebounds, graduate guard Jordan Olivares found Brown wide-open behind the arc. The Toronto native drilled the triple and the game’s first points. Olivares followed up her nice pass with a behind-the-back dribble to split the defense. She created an open lane for herself before finishing through contact.

The Highlanders failed to match the intensity of the Roadrunners in the first quarter.

UCR were often second to rebounds and loose balls. A 3-pointer from redshirt sophomore Sophia Tougas put the Roadrunners ahead by eight. From the second quarter on, UCR coach Brad Langston opted for bigger lineups to regain control of the glass.

With the Highlanders trailing, Webster looked more assertive on offense. She drove to the basket regularly and the Roadrunners were at her mercy. She went deep into her bag of tricks for open looks around the rim. With the hot hand, Webster showed off her range with a deep 3 to give UCR their first lead of the game. Not letting Webster take all the spotlight, Brown responded with a 3-pointer of her own to regain a 25-23 lead at

halftime.

Brown and Webster were back to business to start the second half. Off the designed inbound play, Brown sank the open corner 3-pointer. On the other end, Webster relentlessly attacked Brown along the baseline. She beat her off the dribble before finishing around the help defense. Then, Olivares looked to one-up Webster with a tough finish over the 6 foot 2 inches Esther Mataranzz and a 3-pointer on the following possession.

Down by 8, the Highlanders were desperate to kill the momentum of the Roadrunners.

After a 3-point attempt from CSUB’s senior Grace Hunter rimmed in and out, guards RyAnne Walters and Jordyn Marshall drew back-to-back charges against the overaggressive Roadrunners. The extra possessions helped set up Webster for an and-1 opportunity under the basket. She made the free throw, but another triple from Brown kept UCR from tying it up.

Despite possessing just a 4-point lead heading into the fourth quarter, Bakersfield was careless with the ball. Lazy passes from the Roadrunners were easy pickings for the UCR guards. A corner triple from Webster gave the Highlanders the lead in a matter of moments. The Roadrunners briefly retook the lead after Olivares found freshman Amourie Porter for an easy bucket with a no-look pass.

However, after another 3-pointer from Webster, the Highlanders never looked back.

With 17 seconds left, a corner triple from RyAnne Walters iced the game. The game finished 54-48 in favor of the visitors. While not quite as dramatic as the previous meeting, this game still featured an exciting duel between the Big West’s top scorers.

The Highlanders concluded their two-game road trip against the red-hot Anteaters in which they lost 53-62 in a tough outing. They will take on Cal State Fullerton next week at home on Thursday, Feb. 15, at 6 p.m. ■ H

COURTESY OF UCR ATHLETICS

20 TUESDAY, FEB 13, 2024

SPORTS

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UC Riverside men’s basketball team gets a thrilling win over Cal State Bakersfield, 65-53 HANSEL CHU Sports Editor

Kyle Owens hits the buzzer-beating hook shot to give the Highlanders the victory.

The UC Riverside men’s basketball team defeated Cal State Bakersfield (CSUB), 6563, Thursday night in a thrilling finish. With the game tied at 63-63, graduate student forward Kyle Owens connected on a hook shot at the buzzer to give the Highlanders the victory. Going into this ball game, UCR was in a slump as they lost their past five out of six games. They looked to get revenge on CSUB as they were blown out from their previous matchup, 56-80, back on Jan. 18.

The Roadrunners had the slight edge to start the game. Forward Tom Mark had it going early with five early points for Cal State Bakersfield. On the home side, sophomore guard Nate Pickens had the first points for UC Riverside as he knocked down a 3-pointer after a Kyle Owens steal. Minutes later, redshirt junior forward Vladimer Salaridze came off the bench and sunk in a 3-pointer of his own to draw the Highlanders closer, 10-8.

However, the UCR offense became stale as they had a five-and-a-half-minute scoring drought which led CSUB to grow their lead. Guard Cameron Wilbon knocked down two straight jump shots to give the Roadrunners a 19-10 lead with 11:08 left in the half.

The Highlanders started to find their rhythm offensively after their scoring drought as they slowly started to crawl their way back into the ball game. Pickens knocked down his second 3-pointer of the half to break the scoring drought for UC Riverside. After a missed jumper from Cal State Bakersfield, redshirt freshman Barrington Hargress sunk in a mid-range jump shot to spark the UCR run. Hargress connected on another midrange jumper moments later to cut the deficit to three, 21-18, with 7:42 left until halftime.

After a timeout, Hargress found junior center Ben Griscti for a 3-pointer to cut the deficit to one. After a Roadrunner turnover, Griscti finished the transition bucket to give the Highlanders the lead 27-26 with 2:46 to go in the half. Both teams continued to trade baskets down the stretch of the first half. With 13 seconds left in the half, Griscti grabbed the offensive rebound after a Salaridze miss and converted a 3-point play to tie the game 30-30 at the half.

Both teams continued to trade baskets to open up the second half as the game felt more like a tug-of-war battle with neither team able to hold onto the lead. Redshirt freshman

Kaleb Smith opened up the half with a 3-pointer and Griscti carried his momentum into the second half by finishing a layup to give UC Riverside a 35-33 lead. Senior guard Kaleb Higgins started to make his impact felt as he sunk in two straight jump shots to give CSUB a four-point cushion. After a missed free throw from UCR, Wilbon knocked down another jumper to give the Roadrunners a six-point lead with 13:36 left in the game.

The Highlanders wouldn’t give up as they quickly responded after giving up the scoring run. Hargress converted a 3-point play to stop the Cal State Bakersfield run.

On the ensuing possession, Pickens converted a 3-point play of his own as he finished a layup through contact to tie the game up a 45 apiece. The Highlanders went on a 9-2 run to give themselves a seven-point lead with 8:40 left in the ball game.

However, CSUB wouldn’t go down without a fight either as they clawed their way back into the game. The Roadrunners were able to force some timely turnovers and converted the Highlanders’ misses and mistakes into points. With under a minute left in the game, UCR held a 63-60 lead. Wilbon was able to find Higgins for a 3-pointer to tie the game at 63-63 with 32 seconds left on the clock. UC Riverside held the ball for the last-second shot and with time winding down, redshirt sophomore Isaiah Moses came off the screen and fired a right corner 3-pointer but missed off of the back rim. However, Owens grabbed the miss, rose for a left-handed hook shot, and scored at the buzzer to give the Highlanders the win 65-63.

Griscti led the way for the Highlanders with 18 points and seven rebounds. Pickens had a solid game with 14 points, four rebounds and three assists. The hero, Owens, had a near double-double with 10 points and nine rebounds.

The Highlanders defeated the top-seeded UC Irvine Saturday night, 88-78, and improved their record to 10-15 (5-8). They will take on Cal State Fullerton on the road H on Thursday, Feb. 15, at 7 p.m. ■

COURTESY OF UCR ATHLETICS