Volume 73, Issue 22

HIGHLANDER

THE

University of California, Riverside

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FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 8, 2025

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2 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org

STAFF

HUMANS OF UCR

(ൽංඍඈඋ ංඇ &ඁංൾൿ

Senna Omar editorinchief@highlandernews.org 0ൺඇൺ඀ංඇ඀ (ൽංඍඈඋ

Dhriti Lathker (she/her), Biology, First Year

Mata Elangovan managingeditor@highlandernews.org 1ൾඐඌ (ൽංඍඈඋ

Sanjana Thatte news@highlandernews.org

“

$ඌඌඍ 1ൾඐඌ (ൽංඍඈඋ

I have a great friend group. We care about each other very much. We were all randoms in the dorms, I was in Honors. Basically, I got housing earlier, because we get priority everything. [Our suite] was all random people too, and we just ended up being friends. I wasn’t expecting to be friends with all of them.

I have a limited amount of close friends. I do consider a lot of people my friends. I feel like someone who would be my ȄɞȓDZȶǫ ȓɥ ɥɀȳDZɀȶDZ L ʧLjȪȥ ɯɀԧ ʑȎɀ L DZȶȢɀʗ ʧLjȪȥȓȶȅ ɯɀԬ ɀȳDZɀȶDZ ʑȎɀ L ǥLjȶ ʧLjȪȥ ɯɀ DZȓɯȎDZɞ ȓȶ Ljȶ DZǫɸǥLjɯȓɀȶLjȪ ǥɀȶɯDZʖʧԧ ɀɞ Ȣɸɥɯ Lj ɥɀǥȓLjȪ ǥɀȶɯDZʖʧԧ ȪȓȥDZ Lj ǤLjȪLjȶǥDZ ǤDZɯʑDZDZȶ ɯȎDZȳԬ GɀȶDZɥɯȪʗԧ ȓɯ ǫDZɛDZȶǫɥ ɀȶ ɯȎDZ ȄɞȓDZȶǫɥԬ ̨DZɞDZ ǥɀɸȪǫ ǤDZ ȄɞȓDZȶǫɥ ʑȎɀ LjɞDZ ɥɸɛDZɞ ɥɀǥȓLjȪ Ljȶǫ ʗɀɸ Ȣɸɥɯ ʧLjȪȥ ʑȓɯȎԧ Ljȶǫ ɯȎDZɞDZ ǥɀɸȪǫ ǤDZ ȄɞȓDZȶǫɥ ɯȎLjɯ you just study with. Or, somewhere in the middle, low key, L ǫDŻȶDZ Lj ǤDZɥɯ ȄɞȓDZȶǫ Ljɥ ɥɀȳDZɀȶDZ ʗɀɸ ǥɀɸȪǫ ǫɀ ǤɀɯȎ ʑȓɯȎԬ Ճ¤ɀ ̇ȶǫ ɛDZɀɛȪDZ ʗɀɸ ʐȓǤDZ ʑȓɯȎՄ ʗɀɸ Ȣɸɥɯ ʧLjȪȥ ɯɀ ɯȎDZȳԧ LjɛɛɞɀLjǥȎ ɯȎDZȳԧ Ljȶǫ ʧLjȪȥԬ L ȄDZDZȪ ȪȓȥDZ L՟ȳ Lj ʐDZɞʗ ʧLjȪȥLjɯȓʐDZ ɛDZɞɥɀȶԧ Ljȶǫ L ȪȓȥDZ Ljɥȥȓȶȅ ɛDZɀɛȪDZ ɝɸDZɥɯȓɀȶɥԬ ɀ Ȣɸɥɯ ʧLjȪȥ Lj Ȫɀɯ with them, and then hang out once to see how the vibes are. ,ʐDZȶ ȓȄ ɯȎDZ ʐȓǤDZɥ LjɞDZȶ՟ɯ ɯȎLjɯ ȅɞDZLjʧԧ Ȣɸɥɯ ɯɞʗ LjȅLjȓȶԬ DZǥLjɸɥDZ ɯȎDZ ̇ɞɥɯ ȎLjȶȅɀɸɯ ǫɀDZɥȶ՟ɯ LjȪʑLjʗɥ ǫDŻȶDZ Lj ȄɞȓDZȶǫ ȅɞɀɸɛԬ՝

Dinara Godage asst.news@highlandernews.org 2ඉංඇංඈඇඌ (ൽංඍඈඋ

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THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

8

Tuesday

Workshop: Monte Carlo Markov Chains 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Virtual Workshop: XCITE Canvas 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Virtual

Sustainability and Climate Career Panel Webinar 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Virtual

9

Wednesday

Florence Bayz Music Series 12 p.m. to 12:50 p.m.

Arts 157

UPCOMING EVENTS

Lecture: Should the Left Abandon “Wokeness” 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Virtual

10

Thursday

11 Friday

12

Saturday

Workshop: English Grammar Refresher 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Virtual Lecture: Working with Paranoia 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

HMNSS 2212

2025 Grad Slam Final 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

SOB Auditorium Office Hours: CHASS Dean Daryle Williams 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

HMNSS 3413

Workshop: STEAM Academy Booster Session 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Sproul 1212 CNAS Science Lecture Series 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

SSC 229 Screening: Flow 3 p.m.

Culver Center of the Arts

13 Sunday

14

Monday

JOSEPH RODARTE / THE HIGHLANDER

No events

Boundaries in Bloom Floral Workshop 12 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.

HUB 379 CHASS F1RST: Research in CHASS 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

HMNSS 1500

3

4 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

NEWS

highlandernews.org/category/news

NEWS

Back on strike: Illegal raises to healthcare premiums HUK Z[HĄUN ZOVY[HNLZ AFSCME 3299 AND UPTE-CWA 9119 RETURN FOR THIRD STRIKE THIS ACADEMIC YEAR

EDDY BASURTO / THE HIGHLANDER

MATA ELANGOVAN Managing Editor

The American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees Local 3299 (AFSCME 3299) hit the strike lines in solidarity with the University Professional and Technical Employees-Communication Workers of America of America 9119 (UPTE-CWA 9119), continuing a series of protests against the University of California (UC) system’s alleged unfair labor practices.

The one-day strike lasted from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on April 1, 2025, and spread awareness of the union’s experiences at the negotiation table with the UC system, staff shortages across the system and increased healthcare premiums.

7KH VWULNH ZDV ¿UVW DQQRXQFHG RQ 0DUFK 21, 2025, when the AFSCME 3299 X account shared a post stating, “UPTE-CWA 9119 is holding a one-day ULP strike on April 1 against UC’s unfair labor practices. Like us, they have been affected by UC’s bad-faith bargaining, which has been preventing them from reaching a fair and just contract. We won’t stand by. We will be going on strike in solidarity with our union siblings.”

That same day, UPTE-CWA 9119 posted, “UPTE members won’t accept UC’s unlawful unilateral healthcare increases on our vulnerable coworkers and their families, nor will we accept bad-faith bargaining & divide-and-conquer tactics.”

Alton Carswell, a spokesperson for UPTECWA 9119 and a case manager at UCR shared that one of the things that the unions want the UC to do is to “actually come to the bargaining table, be proactive and follow up on some of the proSRVDOV WKDW ZH EURXJKW XS EHFDXVH XQGHUVWDI¿QJ is a major issue that we’re concerned about.”

Commenting on his own experiences working with the Case Management department at UCR, Carswell explained, “I, myself in a department of two, with one supervisor dealing with about 600 students per quarter. Multiply that by three, and you’ll get an idea of how many students we VHH D \HDU ,W¶V UHDOO\ GLI¿FXOW EHFDXVH RI XQGHUVWDI¿QJ <RX¶YH JRW VWXGHQWV ZKR DUH EDFNHG XS

in getting services.”

Carswell continued, “All three of us [in the department] are alumni from the UC and we’re here doing this work because we want to see stuGHQWV JHW DFURVV WKDW ¿QLVK OLQH $QG LW¶V JHWWLQJ PRUH GLI¿FXOW 6WXGHQWV DUH FRPLQJ LQ ZLWK D ORW RI GLI¿FXOW LVVXHV WKDW WKH\¶UH PDQDJLQJ :H¶UH just not being given the support with more staffing to help us get through that, and to support our students and support the professors that we assist.”

Senior Cook in Dining Services, Jesse Hernandez, has been employed by UCR for 25 years.

Hernandez has been actively involved with AFSCME strikes throughout this academic year and shared updates regarding the negotiations taking place at the bargaining table.

Commenting on the healthcare increases that ZHUH SURSRVHG KH FODLPV ³837( KDV ¿OHG charges against the UC, and [the UC] repeatedly breaks laws. They’re not held accountable.

I believe one of the two charges was [regarding] increases in healthcare. [AFSCME 3299 has something] similar that we know about, because our rates for healthcare have gone up illegally.”

Hernandez commented on wage increases and market adjustments that various UC chancellors received over the last few academic years. He emphasized, “I believe Wilcox got a 28% [pay] increase, in addition to [the 4.2 percent increase received by all chancellors statewide] and, I believe the chancellor for [UC] San Diego received a 78 percent increase they wanted him to equally match the salary of a million dollars, as if he was the chancellor at [UC] San Francisco. The University has priorities, send[ing] the message that all they do is take care of themselves.”

AFSCME 3299 began contract negotiations at the bargaining table with the UC system in January of 2024, a few months before UPTE-CWA 9119 began their negotiations. Currently, neither union has reached a contract agreement with the system.

Additionally, UC Riverside’s Housing Services sent an email to notify students that “street

DQG VLGHZDON WUDI¿F DURXQG WKH FDPSXV LV OLNHO\ to be impacted by activity. Due to the combination of the Labor Action and the current maintenance work occurring on Canyon Crest Drive, some bus lines serving the campus area may have been rerouted.”

Residential restaurants Glasgow and Lothian offered a limited menu, and various other oncampus dining venues were either closed or offered reduced hours. They requested in the email that “residents using Dining Dollars, please use the campus retail locations on this union activity day.”

On March 21, 2025, the UC put out a statement on the strike notice claiming, “We’ve been working hard with both unions and have offered what we believe are strong proposals that recognize their important work” and that “it’s disheartening to hear mischaracterizations of our positions and actions during these negotiations, DV ZH¶YH EHHQ JHQXLQHO\ WU\LQJ WR ¿QG VROXWLRQV that work for everyone.”

They followed up with another statement on April 1, 2025, sharing, “We have met with AFSCME and UPTE for months to try to settle these contracts, offering generous wage increases, monthly credits to reduce health care expenses for lower-wage earners, expanded sick leave, and improved ability to schedule vacation time. We’ve offered these early in negotiations, more than a year ago for AFSCME, and eight months ago to UPTE, to try to encourage contract closure and avert unnecessary disruptions like these.”

The UC further claimed that “UPTE and AFSCME are not being forthright in their characterizations, which is upsetting since we’ve made VLQFHUH HIIRUWV WR ¿QG PXWXDOO\ EHQH¿FLDO VROXtions.” ŶH

NEWS

highlandernews.org/category/news

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

5

9P]LYZPKL *V\U[` :OLYPă H[[LTW[Z [V JV\U[LY reduction in public trust of law enforcement.

CHAD BIANCO SAYS DEPUTIES ARE NOT DIRECTLY INVOLVED IN IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT. ALEX KUPISIEWICZ Contributing Writer

In a video posted to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Instagram account in February, Riverside Sheriff Chad Bianco said there has been an “alarming increase in the concern over law enforcement and immigration.” He went on to state that he believes this is due to misinformation coming from politicians, immigration activists and media headlines.

Immigrant populations across the country have become more wary of police in the wake of the mass deportations that have been ordered by the Trump administration and carried out mainly E\ +RPHODQG 6HFXULW\ ,Q WKH ¿UVW WKUHH PRQWKV of 2025 alone, the administration has made over 113,000 arrests and deported over 100,000 people.

Multiple cases have come to light of immigrants and visitors of full legal status being detained by the United States (U.S.) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while in the U.S.or at the border attempting to enter. Stories like that of Canadian actress Jasmine Mooney being arrested at the border as she applied for a

new visa only serve to heighten fear.

Mooney was denied her new visa at the border, denied re-entry into Mexico and made to VOHHS RQ WKH ÀRRU LQ DQ HPSW\ URRP DW WKH ERUGHU IRU WKUHH GD\V EHIRUH VKH ZDV RI¿FLDOO\ DUUHVWHG

by ICE and taken to a detention center. She was never charged with a crime and released after 11 days.

This is one of many cases in which ICE arrests have taken place with no illegal activity involved. The claim by the Trump administration that immigrants are criminals has been debunked numerous times. Research indicates that immigrants are less likely to break the law than U.S. born citizens.

The fear immigrants have of ICE agents appears to extend to local police, Bianco claims. In the Instagram video, he attempts to dispel these fears by assuring that Riverside deputies “have not, are not and will not engage” in immigration enforcement.

This statement aligns with California’s sanctuary law, otherwise known as Senate Bill 54,

which prohibits local law enforcement from using public funding to play a direct role in immigration enforcement. They are also prohibited from transferring people to immigration authorities, except in cases where people have been convicted of a violent felony or misdemeanor.

Before this, Sheriff Bianco stated in an interview with Fox 11 L.A last November that he was willing to “work around” SB 54 in order to “deport these people that are victimizing us and victimizing my residents.” He was not present at the Riverside County Board of Supervisors meeting ZKHUH WKH FRXQW\¶V H[HFXWLYH RI¿FHU DQG FRXQty counsel were directed to evaluate how “law abiding” undocumented immigrants’ data is collected, managed and stored.

County personnel were also directed to evaluate existing and potential funding which could be used to support undocumented immigrants who face deportation. Despite not being present, Bianco later sent an email in which he reprimanded the board for “causing a political divide.” ŶH

ASUCR

Senate urged to join national student advocacy group FIRST SENATE MEETING OF SPRING QUARTER BRINGS DISCUSSIONS OF UCR JOINING USSA. SANJANA THATTE News Editor

7KH ¿UVW $VVRFLDWHG 6WXGHQWV RI the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR) meeting of spring quarter was held Wednesday April 7, 2025 at 7:03 p.m. To begin the meeting, California Public Interest Research Group (Cal PIRG) Chair Makai Harris gave an update to the Senate regarding different initiatives that the organization is progressing towards.

Harris described wanting to work towards issues of protecting oceans, reduced plastic consumption and planning events for Earth Week. He called for ASUCR’s support for the events planned for the Earth Week and encouraged others to participate.

The campus action chair for UC Student Association (UCSA) also spoke to inform the Senate about a survey that UCSA plans to send out to the student body to determine what issues the organization should advocate and put their resources towards.

Next UCR College Democrats President Joe Anastacio advocated to the senate that UCR should join the United States Student Association (USSA). USSA is a national student advocacy organization created to

propel student voices and representation within the federal government.

USSA is completely student-run and funded by alumni donations. The organization relies on lobbying and group organizations.

According to Anastacio USSA has not been functional since 2017 when the board failed to elect leadership; if ASUCR joined the organization they would be a founding member and would contribute to writing the new USSA constitution.

Anastacio described that ASUCR’s presence in this organization would allow for UCR students to advocate for issues on a larger national level. He described, “I am sure that you are familiar with [Trump administration] operations in terms of executive orders, striking down diversity, equity and inclusion, striking down forms of protection for Title IX — gender-based discrimination in the workplace — really weaponizing any laws that can strip away federal protections for students, staff and faculty at higher education spaces. [All of this] under the guise [of] giv[ing] [control] back to the states, which poses an insurmountable amount of

harm.

Continuing, Anastacio said “this DOVR LQFOXGHV D WKUHDW WR ¿QDQFLDO DLG which I’m sure impacts quite a few people in this room right now. Students are facing historic challenges, affordability [issues], student debt, voter suppression, HR 22, housing insecurity, affordability, time back, as well as federal attacks on DEI …

[USSA] will serve as the federal lobbying arm for campuses nationwide, especially those who don’t have a representative body like UCSA.” He explained that because USSA represents universities nationwide, the organization holds overall a more moderate belief. “A lot of voices that are a little too shy to advocate for trans representations in sports.

Okay, a little too shy to ask for more money for students who don’t really have housing. We experience that here at UCR, UC Santa Cruz, almost all grade [levels] are struggling to get housing,” said Anastacio. He continued stating that UCR is removed from the federal lens and the perspective of other states; however, that does not mean they should not advocate for these issues on a na-

tional level.

No membership fees or dues are collected. In order for ASUCR to join, a resolution would have to be passed by the Senate, and it is likely that a member of ASUCR External would be a representative of ASUCR to USSA. The decision would have to be made during the spring quarter, as the organization is looking to ratify a new Constitution in June.

The Finance Committee approved all organization allocations.

College of Humanities, Arts and Sciences (CHASS) Senators Justin Ibay, Karen Vo and Ryan Choi were absent. CHASS Senator Parra Rios and College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences Senator Wei were excused.

Bourns College of Engineering Senator Allison Pham is no longer a senator at UCR for personal reasons.

The Senate wished her the best in her future endeavors and shared a statement, in which they expressed hopes for her to continue being part of the space in spite of her departure. ŶH

6 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

NEWS

highlandernews.org/category/news

What it means to be Arab American in 2025 SPOTLIGHTING MIDDLE EASTERN AND ARAB STUDENTS ON UCR CAMPUS IN HONOR OF ARABIC AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH. SANJANA THATTE News Editor

The Middle Eastern Student Center (MESC) provides those of Arab and Middle Eastern Origins with an opportunity to gather in a community space in Costo Hall DV SDUW RI DQ DI¿QLW\ VSDFH 7KLV week is Arab American Heritage month, so The Highlander decided to ask some of the center’s members and those who frequent it what the space and being Arab American mean to them. )RU PDQ\ WKHLU ¿UVW HQFRXQWHU with the MESC was during Highlander Day, when they spoke to members of the center explaining the types of activities that the MESC provides students. Amy Maatouk, third-year psychology major and programming intern for MESC, debated between attending Pepperdine University and the University of California, Riverside.

After the Highlander Day event, Maatouk recalled googling the MESC, going “through the website, and even through the Instagram. And I was so excited to see IDFHV , NQHZ OLNH 5DPL <XVXI RU see that they had really cool events and culture shows, and I was just instantly so excited. I remember being like, wow, it’d be so cool to intern here.”

The center offers a safe space to be with those of a similar cultural context. Daoud Ibrahim, a ¿UVW \HDU QHXURVFLHQFH PDMRU H[SUHVVHV WKDW KH RIWHQ ¿QGV KLPVHOI simply conversing with others or going out to eat while he is there.

He also acknowledges that the center has weekly activities such as MESC Cafe, where members of the center discuss topics important to them, such as Orientalism.

When asked what it means to be Arab American in 2025, many shared a feeling of cautious optimism. When Maatouk was growing up, she was surrounded by stereotypes, misconceptions and racial attacks.

“It’s the three B’s, which are belly dancer, bomber and billionaire; those are the three stereotypes that Arab-Americans tend to be put into. I think it’s hard to push yourself out of that stereotype. Especially with what’s going on right now, it’s hard because there are always so many things going on in the Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) region. And it can be very challenging because it’s hard when you’re talking to someone and they already have a conception about you, or they already have the assumption,” described Maatouk.

Ibrahim shared similar sentiments, expressing that there still is an underlying perception in the American consciousness that Arab Americans and Middle Easterners are violent. He explained, “They have a lot of misconceptions about the SWANA region and the Arab world [people] think that we are violent. They think we are aggressive people, and we are some of the most hospitable and kindest people, you know.”

According to Ibrahim, these preconceived notions have been reduced in recent years, and a great deal of work has been done to show Middle Eastern culture to the public and educate others.

Maatouk echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the hospitality and solidarity the Arab community shows in supporting each other and that these connections allow WKHP QRW WR EH GH¿QHG E\ VWHUHRtypes and cultural trauma.

Regarding some of the biggest issues concerning Middle Easterners at the moment, subverting and changing perceptions are some that come to the forefront of the community’s minds. Maatouk observes that the community often lacks positive representation in the media.

Maatouk and Ibrahim noted that many people derive their knowledge of the Middle Eastern Community from the news, which often focuses solely on violence and warfare in the region. Because of this, people often rely on social PHGLD WR ¿QG SRVLWLYH UHSUHVHQtations of Middle Easterners and news.

“Oftentimes, it’s more biased ways of covering news meant to serve Western audiences. [The news] does not understand the actual population. It always reminds me of the way that Syrian refugees were represented in the media, versus Ukrainian refugees. It’s very, very different. It’s very stark.

We’re kind of seen as these un-

civilized people, and then they’re seen as these civilized European refugees,” continued Maatouk.

Bashir Hamami, a second-year neuroscience major, noticed that WKH FXUUHQW DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ LQÀXences public sentiments. He explained, “With the recent immigration policies of the orange man, we know that people are not too happy, especially with the travel bans.”

Many Arabs and Middle Easterns are looking to the future of their community, citing NetÀL[ VKRZV OLNH ³0R´ DV JURZing positive representation for Middle Easterners. Maatouk also expressed how Middle Eastern people show up for each other to spread positivity. Students also try to make their presence felt by creDWLQJ DI¿QLW\ VSDFHV DW RWKHU FDPpuses.

Maatouk encourages students to try to interact with others in WKHVH FDPSXV DI¿QLW\ VSDFHV ³,W¶V important to … understand these communities. If you see an event going on, push yourself to try the food there or push yourself to educate yourself. Do not rely on your Middle Eastern friends to educate you as well. I think it means a lot to us when we see people who are not part of the culture … really try to engage with the culture more.

I think that’s a really awesome thing.” Ŷ H

MATA ELANGOVAN / THE HIGHLANDER

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OPINIONS

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

7

OPINIONS Cory Booker sets Senate record for longest speech to protest Trump’s agenda. Democrats should take note.

SENATOR BOOKER’S SENATE SPEECH PROTEST IS THE FIGHT MANY AMERICANS HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR FROM THEIR ELECTED OFFICIALS. CECILE DIROLL Opinions Editor

From Monday, March 31, at 7 p.m. until movement to oppose the Trump administraTuesday, April 1, at 8:05 p.m., New Jersey tion. While a government shutdown would Democratic Senator Cory Booker delivered have had serious repercussions, the RepubD PDUDWKRQ VSHHFK ODVWLQJ KRXUV DQG ¿YH licans have often maintained a united front minutes to protest the Trump administration’s against critical bills proposed by recent Demsweeping policy changes. ocratic presidents.

As he stepped up to the podium with his Additionally, as a center-left Democrat who ELQGHU LQ KDQG %RRNHU ² WKH ¿UVW $IULFDQ voted for four of Trump’s nominees for exAmerican to serve as a United States (U.S.) ecutive positions in his second term, Senator senator for New Jersey — stated that he Booker’s speech is a refreshing change. Up ZRXOG UHPDLQ RQ WKH 6HQDWH ÀRRU ³DV ORQJ DV XQWLO QRZ WKH SULPDU\ ¿JXUHV RSSRVLQJ WKH I am physically able,” describing the act as “a president have been more left-leaning voices moral moment” in the country’s history. like Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cor“It’s not left or right. It’s right and wrong. tez and Senator Bernie Sanders — both of It’s about getting into ‘good trouble,’” Booker whom are currently on a “Fighting the Oliconcluded, referencing the late Civil Rights garchy Tour,” which has drawn thousands of Movement leader and congressman John supporters nationwide.

Lewis at the end of his speech.

Booker’s decision to openly oppose Trump COURTESY OF WIKMEDIA COMMONS Booker received over 14,000 messages should inspire and encourage other center-left eral pressure by banning diversity statements from constituents and spoke extensively about 'HPRFUDWLF ODZPDNHUV DQG LQÀXHQWLDO OHDGHUV in hiring practices. Recent actions by the UC President Trump’s policies, such as the use of — including California representatives and have not addressed critical issues affecting the Alien Enemies Act for deportations, fund- university administrators — to follow suit. vulnerable students, including threats to iming cuts to critical federal and state assistance California is frequently seen as a leading migration status. programs and recent layoffs at Social Security state of “resistance” against the Trump adRecently, four student visas at UC BerkeRI¿FHV LQLWLDWHG E\ (ORQ 0XVN¶V 'HSDUWPHQW ministration in various policy areas, includ- ley — one of the campuses currently under RI *RYHUQPHQW (I¿FLHQF\ '2*( ing education, immigration, climate change investigation by the Trump administration for His speech broke the previous record held and healthcare. However, numerous politi- “anti-Semitism” — were terminated. Other

by Strom Thurmond, a senator from South cians and leaders have faltered in living up to UC campuses, including those of Los Ange&DUROLQD ZKR ¿OLEXVWHUHG WKH SDVVDJH RI WKH this reputation, yielding to pressure from the les, San Diego, Irvine and Davis, have also reCivil Rights Act in 1957 by speaking for 24 federal administration. ported dozens of revocations of international hours and 18 minutes. However, Booker’s California Gov. Gavin Newsom, an outspo- student visas.

VSHHFK ZDV QRW D ¿OLEXVWHU EHFDXVH KH ZDV QRW ken critic of President Trump, recently interAs higher education faces funding cuts to attempting to delay the Senate’s passage of a viewed right-wing activist Charlie Kirk on his the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the ELOO RU FRQ¿UPDWLRQ RI D QRPLQHH podcast, “This is Gavin Newsom.” Newsom dismantling of the U.S. Department of EduInstead, it served as a symbolic protest uncritically praised Kirk in the interview, stat- cation and efforts to ban Diversity, Equity and against President Trump’s policies. Many ing that his 13-year-old son is a “huge fan.” Inclusion (DEI) programs, the UC adminisAmericans, especially young people, have In a rather uncomfortable discussion, the tration should prioritize standing up against been looking for assertive action from Demo- governor also engaged in frivolous debates Trump’s extreme policies while protecting cratic representatives, who are often criticized about whether higher education is worthwhile students, faculty and staff. Students are acIRU QRW VXI¿FLHQWO\ RSSRVLQJ WKH 7UXPS DG- (spoiler alert: it is). Following this episode, he tively organizing, protesting and even risking ministration. interviewed other conservative former Trump WKHLU VDIHW\ WR ¿JKW WKHVH SROLFLHV ,W¶V WLPH IRU Frustration erupted within the Demo- DGPLQLVWUDWLRQ RI¿FLDOV LQFOXGLQJ 0LFKDHO university leadership to show the same comcratic Party last month when 10 Democratic Savage, Steve Bannon and Anthony Scar- mitment to protecting their campuses and the senators voted with Republicans to advance amucci. future of higher education.

It’s clear that Newsom is positioning himTrump’s spending bill, which proposed reNow is the time for boldness and courage, directing funds away from essential policy self for a run in the 2028 presidential race. not passivity. The recent election demonstratpriorities, such as health care and housing. However, his focus should remain on his cur- ed that Democrats are often out of touch with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer de- rent role — serving the people of California working-class Americans. This is their chance fended this decision by arguing that it was — rather than pursuing political ambitions by to reconnect with their coalition and push necessary to prevent a government shutdown, cozying up to the far right. There may not be a back against a progressively authoritarian which would have been worse than approving functioning American democracy or political government. Booker’s speech will only hold Trump’s spending bill. However, this decision LQVWLWXWLRQV E\ LI LQÀXHQWLDO OHDGHUV OLNH VLJQL¿FDQFH LI KLV FROOHDJXHV DQG RWKHU OHDGangered House Democrats, who had initially Newsom do not actively protect them. ers in sectors under attack from the Trump voted unanimously against the bill.

While disappointing, Newsom’s ambition administration also step up and take a stand.

7KLV VSHQGLQJ YRWH H[HPSOL¿HV WKH RQJR- is predictable. Even more troubling are the re- Ŷ ing struggle within the Democratic Party to cent decisions by the University of California strategize effectively and create a meaningful (UC) system, which have succumbed to fedH

8 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

OPINIONS

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Take It or leave It: Why UCR would annihilate UCLA in a food fight

ADELIA URENA / THE HIGHLANDER

UCR WOULD WIN IN A FOOD FIGHT AGAINST UCLA DUE TO OUR OUTSTANDING FOOD EXPERIMENTS AND ALWAYS BEING UNDERESTIMATED. LILIANNA ANGEL Contributing Writer

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OPINIONS

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

9

UC’s ban on hiring diversity statements is a clear bid to appeal to Trump THE ATTACK ON DIVERSITY BY THE UC SYSTEM IS A BAD OMEN TO STUDENTS NATIONWIDE. ALEX KUPISIEWICZ Contributing Writer

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10 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

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Scotty-Scopes: Spicing up your spring quarter

HOW TO KEEP THINGS INTERESTING FOR THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR. NATALIE DAHL -LH[\YLZ ,KP[VY

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22): The Hierophant

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21): The Hanged Man

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21): Seven of Cups

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Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19): Ace of Pentacles

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18): Three of Wands

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Aries (March 21 – April 19): Page of Wands

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Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Page of Swords

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22): Six of Pentacles

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22): Two of Wands

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TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

11

Features Fiction: ENGL 406 A STORY ABOUT AN UNDERGRAD ADVANCED FICTION CLASS AND THE LETHARGY OF WELCOMING IN ENGL 406.

PAULA ONOHI OMOKHOMION Contributing Writer

The daily rain was our cue, undeniable, without delay. Heavy drops would pelt hard on the windowpanes with such ferocity that we always ZRQGHUHG LI WKH\ ZRXOG ¿QDOO\ JHW LQ EUHDN WKURXJK DQG IRUP D SRRO RU D SXGGOH ZKLFKHYHU LW OLNHG EHVLGH XV +RZHYHU VR PDQ\ GD\V KDG WXUQHG LQWR ZHHNV DQG WKRVH LQWR PRQWKV RXU LQWHUHVW UROOLQJ DZD\ DV WKH\ GLG WDNLQJ HYHU\ RWKHU IRUP RI LW &ODVVHV QR ORQJHU IHOW IXQ DQG WKH WLPHV ZKHQ ZH WULHG WR UHNLQGOH WKH MR\ RI ¿FWLRQ ZULWLQJ WKURXJK KDYLQJ FRQYHUVDWLRQV RQ RXU ZRUNV ZHUH TXLFNO\ UHSODFHG E\ RQHV ZKHUH ZH GLG QRWKLQJ H[FHSW VWDUH DW HDFK RWKHU VRPH RFFDVLRQDOO\ GULIWLQJ WR VOHHS XQWLO WKH FODVV ZDV over.

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Photo Courtesy of Pexels & Wikimedia Commons

12 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

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NORM’S NOOK SPOTLIGHT Campus Art Walk, part two GABRIELA GALVAN (ZZPZ[HU[ -LH[\YLZ ,KP[VY

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(MEDIUM)

Courtesy of UCR

STUDENT POLL QUESTION: What are you most excited for during Spring Quarter?

Answer our weekly question on the Highlander Instagram for the opportunity to get featured in the next issue!

The sun + graduating! :)

Senna O.

The weather being warm enough to hop in the pool and go to the beach.

Cecile D.

Spring Splash.

Eddy B.

Campus being in full bloom!

Natalie D.

Finishing my degree.

Aaliyah B. ŶH GRAPHICS BY LAYNA LAPIKAS / THE HIGHLANDER

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FEATURES

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

13

ŶH COURTESY OF KHEZEZ VIA FLICKR

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BY NATALIE IE DAHL FEATURES EDITOR

ANSWERS

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14 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

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Ok Tofu House RIVERSIDE’S WORTHY RIVAL TO BCD TOFU HOUSE. KYLE YOUNG Contributing Writer

Ambience Rating: 4.5/5 Walking into the store, you are immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The rich wooden interior creates a homey feel, making it the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. The layout consists of comfortable booths lining the sides and sturdy tables neatly arranged in the center, ensuring ample space for small and large groups. At the back, the kitchen is visible, giving a sense of authenticity that is shown within the restaurant.

2QH RI WKH ¿UVW WKLQJV , QRWLFHG is how clean and well-maintained WKH UHVWDXUDQW LV 7KH ÀRRUV DUH clean, and the tables are neatly set, offering an open space for anyone.

The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring that your food arrives as quickly as possible.

As part of Korean dining tradition, stainless steel chopsticks and spoons are provided because they are durable and easy to clean.

Along with the utensils, you are given a glass of refreshingly cold water, which is especially enjoyable on hot summer days. The gentle hum of the air conditioning adds to the comfort, creating a soothing environment where you can relax and fully enjoy your meal.

Although the restaurant isn’t overly crowded, the food speaks for itself as it is truly exceptional.

The rich aromas drifting from the NLWFKHQ KLQW DW WKH GHOLFLRXV ÀDYRUV to come, even from the outside of the restaurant, luring you into the UHVWDXUDQW (YHU\ ELWH FRQ¿UPV WKH care and expertise they put into each dish. The combination of a warm ambiance, friendly service and outstanding food makes this restaurant a hole-in-the-wall worth revisiting. These parts of the restaurants create a cohesive environment in which everyone can enjoy, no matter how you feel that day.

Banchan Sides Price: Free Rating: 4/5 7KH ¿UVW PHDO WKH\ SURYLGHG ZDV WKHLU IUHH LQFOXVLYH ÀDYRUIXO banchan (side dishes), which add layers of taste and texture to every meal. These are given to customers to help them build up their appetites

before the main dish arrives.

Oftentimes, these restaurants include six distinct side dishes: kimchi, tofu skin, radish kimchi, salad, seasoned broccoli and braised potatoes. The side dishes here are YHU\ VLPLODU WR WKRVH LQ ,UYLQH EXW there are fewer options and no spicy cucumbers or spicy squid. Each bite of kimchi bursts with a bold, spicy tang, its fermented crunch leaving a lingering heat on the tongue. The crisp and slightly sweeter radish kimchi delivers a refreshing bite that FXWV WKURXJK ULFK VDYRU\ ÀDYRUV allowing for a change in palate for the next meal. Tofu skin, silky and delicate, absorbs the seasoning beautifully, offering a subtle umami taste.

On the milder side, the salad provides a refreshing contrast with its crisp greens lightly coated in a tangy, soy-infused dressing, which coats your mouth with an addictive taste. The braised potatoes, tender and glazed in a slightly sweet soy sauce, melt in your mouth with an extremely soft texture. Meanwhile, the seasoned broccoli carries a gentle salty kick, its bright green ÀRUHWV UHWDLQLQJ MXVW WKH ULJKW amount of crunch. While these side GLVKHV DUH ÀDYRUIXO HQRXJK WR EH D meal on their own, they serve as the perfect appetizers to appease the hungry people waiting patiently.

BBQ Ribs (Galbi) Price: $33.00 Rating: 4/5 This is my preferred order when going to these restaurants. Many people are familiar with BCD 7RIX +RXVH LQ ,UYLQH DQG , ZRXOG recommend it if you’re looking for something relatively similar to BCD but with a little less quality and closer to campus.

The BBQ ribs could be seared more on both sides to give the meat a better crust with a softer inside.

Since galbi is known to be a higher quality cut of meat, it should almost melt in your mouth, but it depends on each restaurant’s quality. This one only had a slight chewiness. ,W KDV JRRG ÀDYRU RYHUDOO ZLWK WKH glaze it was marinated in, and it is even better when paired with the side dishes, such as kimchi or radish NLPFKL ,W WDVWHV VPRN\ IURP WKH grill with a little hint of sweetness, and there is a bed of onions that helps season the meat as well, along

COURTESY OF KYLE YOUNG

with nice crunchy and soft grilled RQLRQV :KHQ HDWLQJ WKLV PHDO , highly recommend eating it with rice and the other banchan side dishes to get the full experience.

Seafood Tofu Soup Price: $17.00 Rating: 4.25/5 This place is still good for tofu soup, but if you don’t want to GULYH WKRVH PLQXWHV WR %&' , UHFRPPHQG FRPLQJ KHUH ,I \RX HQMR\ VHDIRRG , KLJKO\ UHFRPPHQG getting the seafood tofu soup, as the small clams and shrimp inside FUHDWH D FDOP ¿VK\ WDVWH WKDW LVQ¶W overwhelming. There are also spice levels when asking for soup: mild, medium and spicy.

To see how much spice you can handle, try a hot sauce, and if you think it’s really spicy, get the mild. %XW LI \RX OLNH VSLFH , UHFRPPHQG the spicy, as it isn’t as spicy compared to other restaurants.

Everyone has their own preference, EXW , EHOLHYH WKDW D OLWWOH ELW RI VSLFH FDQ KHOS HQKDQFH WKH ÀDYRU WZRIROG while providing that tingling sensation in the back of your throat.

Additionally, you can add an egg, but you would have to crack it inside. The egg makes the soup

more creamy, so people who don’t like creamy, thicker soup should DYRLG LW 2WKHUZLVH , KLJKO\ recommend it.

Honorable Mentions: ,I \RX¶UH ORRNLQJ IRU RWKHU enjoyable menu items, make sure to try out the:

Spicy Pork Bulgogi Price: $30 Rating: 4/5

Korean Pancakes Price: $10 for 10 pieces and $5 for 5 pieces Rating: 4.5/5

Bibimbap Price: $18 Rating: 4/5 Ŷ H

highlandernews.org/category/features

FEATURES

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

15

Sip smart: a freshmen’s survival guide to partying Some guidelines on how to stay safe while partying in college.

As we begin our last quarter of the year, parties are increasingly frequent. College is the best time to come out of your shell and make new friends and try new things. More often than not, that can include partying, something nearly every student experiences at least once in their college career. While partying may be exciting, it’s important to have fun safely, as unfortunately, a lot of things can go wrong at these events.

If you’re unsure of how to do so, grab your pepper spray and follow these tips!

Let your friends know where youʼre going $OZD\V WUDYHO ZLWK D IULHQG RU IULHQG JURXS ZKLOH SDUW\LQJ %XW LI \RX¶UH JRLQJ WR D SDUW\ DORQH ZKLFK , GRQ¶W UHFRPPHQG DW DOO WKHQ DW OHDVW OHW \RXU WUXVWHG IULHQGV NQRZ LQ DGYDQFH <RX QHYHU NQRZ ZKDW PLJKW KDSSHQ DQG VKRXOG VRPHWKLQJ EDG WDNH SODFH \RX¶OO KDYH SHRSOH ZKR FDQ ¿QG DQG WDNH FDUH RI \RX ,W¶V DOZD\V JRRG WR KDYH VRPHRQH WR UHO\ RQ VR PDNH VXUH WR WHOO DW OHDVW RQH SHUVRQ $OVR WU\ WR PDNH VXUH WKH SDUW\ \RX¶UH JRLQJ WR LV VDIH DQG WUXVWZRUWK\ DQG \RX NQRZ ZKR WKH KRVW LV *RLQJ WR D VWUDQJHU¶V KRXVH DW QLJKW MXVW WR SDUW\ LV SDU XVXDOO\ QHYHU D JRRG LGHD VR WDNH FDXWLRQ 1HYHU SXW \RXU VDIHW\ RQ WKH OLQH MXVW IRU D ELW RI IXQ 6KDULQJ ORFDWLRQV LV DOVR D JUHDW ZD\ WR NHHS LQ FRQWDFW ZLWK \RXU IULHQGV ZKLOH \RX¶UH RXW 8VH DSSV OLNH )LQG 0\ RQ SV OLNH )LQG 0\ R L26 RU /LIH

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Be aware of your surroundings $W SDUWLHV QRW RQO\ LV LW ORXG ZLWK HDU VSOLWWLQJ VSHDNHUV EXW LW¶V DOVR IXOO RI GUXQN LQGLYLGXDOV ZKR PD\ DFW D OLWWOH PHVVLHU WKDQ WKH\ SODQQHG RQ 7U\ QRW WR EH RQH RI WKRVH SHRSOH $OZD\V VWD\ DOHUW DQG EH DZDUH RI ZKDW¶V JRLQJ RQ DURXQG RQ PIRUWDEOH \RX DQG \RXU IULHQGV DQG PDNH VXUH HYHU\RQH LV VDIH ,I VRPHRQH¶V EHLQJ D FUHHS DQG \RX VWDUW WR IHHO XQFRPIRUWDEOH VD\ YH LQ WR WKH SUHVVX QR DQG OHDYH <RX¶UH QRW REOLJDWHG DW DOO WR LQWHUDFW ZLWK ZHLUGRV VR VWDQG \RXU JURXQG DQG QHYHU JLYH LQ WR WKH SUHVVXUH ,PPHGLDWHO\ GLVHQJDJH LI WKLQJV JHW ULVN\

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16

RADAR

8, APRIL 2025

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org

RADAR

‘Mickey 17’ is a casualty of spreading itself too thin &SRK .SSR ,S¸W RI[IWX ÁPQ JIEXYVIW QIQSVEFPI TIVJSVQERGIW F] MXW IRWIQFPI GEWX FYX MX¸W SZIVGVS[HIH [MXL MHIEW Sebastian Morales Staff Writer

R

ightfully riding off the coattails of directing 2019’s Best 3LFWXUH ZLQQLQJ GDUN FRPedy “Parasite,” Bong Joon Ho has been at the epicenWHU RI FLQHPD DV RQH RI LWV greatest directors working WRGD\ $IWHU WKH JOREDO SKHQRPHQRQ WKDW FDPH GXULQJ WKH ZRUOGZLGH DFFODLP RI WKH ¿OP IDQV KDYH EHHQ VDOLYDWLQJ WR ¿QG RXW LI WKH GLrector can live up to the inVXUPRXQWDEOH H[SHFWDWLRQV VHW E\ KLV SUHYLRXV ZRUN

and “Mickey 17” is no difIHUHQW +H ZHDYHV YDULRXV aspects of action, advenWXUH URPDQFH FRPHG\ VFL ¿ DQG GUDPD DOO LQWR RQH However, the tonal shifts within “Mickey 17” do not LOOXVWUDWH WKH VDPH VHDPOHVV ÀRZ RI JHQUHV LQ ¿OPV such as those within “ParaVLWH ´ 7KLV GLVDSSRLQWLQJO\ SURPSWV WKH DXGLHQFH WR IHHO FRQIXVHG GXULQJ PDQ\ HPRtional and vital scenes, creating an incohesive viewing H[SHULHQFH

In what is undoubtedly a WXPXOWXRXV DQG GLYLVLYH SROLWLFDO FOLPDWH WRGD\ %RQJ Joon Ho returned to cinHPDV ZLWK ORIW\ DPELWLRQV and eerily relevant social FRPPHQWDU\ IRU DXGLHQFHV WR UHÀHFW RQ +LV KLJKO\ anticipated genre-bending SROLWLFDO VFL ¿ FRPHG\ “Mickey 17,” was released RQ 0DUFK

7KH ¿OP¶V PRVW XQGHQLDEOH quality is Robert Pattinson’s VWHOODU SHUIRUPDQFH LQ WKH dual roles of Mickey 17 and his Mickey 18 counterpart ² ZKLFK VHHPV WR EH H[pected by audiences at this SRLQW LQ KLV FDUHHU

Set in 2054, the dystopian ¿OP IROORZV 0LFNH\ %DUQHV (Robert Pattinson) seeking to escape the debt he owes to a group of loan sharks on (DUWK E\ DSSO\LQJ DV DQ ³H[SHQGDEOH ´ +H MRLQV IDLOHG politician Kenneth Marshall (Mark Ruffalo) and his group of followers on D VSDFH H[SHGLWLRQ WR FRORQL]H RWKHU KDELWDEOH SODQHWV Mickey’s obligation as an ³H[SHQGDEOH´ UHTXLUHV KLP to be genetically reprinted upon death after enacting various hazardous tasks WKDW EHQH¿W WKH H[SHGLWLRQ¶V colonization efforts toward the already occupied planet RI 1LÀKHLP &RPSOLFDWLRQV DULVH ZKHQ PXOWLSOH SULQWHG 0LFNH\V H[LVWLQJ DW RQFH begin to threaten Marshall’s ideological control of his IROORZHUV $V PDVWHUIXOO\ GHPRQstrated throughout Bong’s ¿OPRJUDSK\ WKH GLUHFWRU has a knack for allowing KLV ¿OPV WR IHHO JHQUH OHVV

Pattinson continues to push WKH OLPLWV RI KLV FDSDELOLWLHV by not only putting in twice the acting effort needed WR PDNH ERWK YHUVLRQV RI 0LFNH\ GLVWLQFW IURP HDFK other, but also through his character’s unique accent that blends the voices of 6WHYH %XVFHPL DQG 6WHYH 2 IURP ³-DFNDVV ´ ,W¶V DQ abrasive accent that viewers will either learn to love after getting used to or despise HQWLUHO\ LI WKH DGMXVWPHQW SHULRG QHYHU FRPHV DURXQG Mark Ruffalo’s perforPDQFH DV .HQQHWK 0DUVKDOO ZLOO VXUHO\ VWLU PRYLHJRHUV 0DUVKDOO DFWHG DV D FRPHGLF \HW KRUUL¿F PLUURU RI FRQWHPSRUDU\ UHDO OLIH SROLWLFLDQV 5XIIDOR HPERGLHV the personal sensibilities DQG H[SORLWDWLYH FRQVHUYDtive ideals of both President 'RQDOG 7UXPS DQG (ORQ 0XVN $OWKRXJK 0DUVKDOO FDQ LPLtate various other historical SROLWLFDO ¿JXUHV LW LV WRR glaring to ignore Bong Joon +R¶V HPSKDVLV RQ WKH FKDUDFWHU¶V V\PEROLVP 0DU-

&RXUWHV\ RI :DUQHU %URV 3LFWXUHV

VKDOO¶V FKDUDFWHU XOWLPDWHO\ UHÀHFWV IDVFLVP XQHTXDO FODVV GLYLVLRQ UHOLJLRXV PDnipulation for control, endVWDJH FDSLWDOLVP H[SORLWative labor practices and VFL ¿ IDQWDVLHV DQG WKLV ZDV VROG WR WKH PDVVHV WKURXJKRXW ³0LFNH\ ´

and the corrupt politicians who do not serve the best interests of their constituHQWV 7KLV EHJV WKH TXHVWLRQ of why these ideas are in the PRYLH LI WKH\ DUH QRW H[SORUHG LQ D PDQQHU WKDW GRHV WKHP MXVWLFH

$V UHOHYDQW DV ³0LFNH\ ´ LV WR FRQWHPSRUDU\ LVVXHV WKH PRYLH¶V UHGXQGDQF\ RI WKHPHV FDQ QRW EH VKDNHQ off after the credits roll off WKH VFUHHQ 3HUKDSV DXGLences are beginning to feel WKDW ¿OPV FHQWHUHG DURXQG thought-provoking social Other ideas are sprinkled FRPPHQWDU\ DERXW V\VWHPLQ VXFK DV HQYLURQPHQWDO- ic corruption, designed to LVP DQG VHWWOHU FRORQLDOLVP “wake up” audiences, are ZKLFK FDQ EH DSSUHFLDWHG JHWWLQJ ROG However, they are treated PRUH DV WKURZ LQV UDWKHU Within the last four years, WKDQ IXOO\ GHYHORSHG WKHPHV PDQ\ SHRSOH KDYH DOUHDG\ FRPSDUHG WR WKH ¿OP¶V IRFXV felt that the world is enterRQ WKH GHKXPDQL]DWLRQ RI ing a dystopian reality, and the poor and working class WKH\ UHFRJQL]H WKH WKHPHV 7KHVH FRQFHSWV LQWHUspersed throughout Bong -RRQ +R¶V ¿OP FRQYROXWH DQG GLOXWH WKH ¿OP¶V SROLWLFDO DQDO\VLV IURP EHFRPLQJ as Earth-shattering as it is EHOLHYHG WR EH

that Bong Joon Ho seeks to unravel in “Mickey 17” ZLWKRXW ZDWFKLQJ WKH ¿OP ,QVWHDG RI PDNLQJ ¿OPV WKDW analyze and critique the V\VWHPLF ÀDZV RI FRQWHPSRUDU\ VRFLHW\ ¿OPPDNers such as Bong Joon Ho VKRXOG EHJLQ WR FXUDWH ¿OPV WKDW VHHN WR LQÀXHQFH D QHZ V\VWHP RI OLYLQJ WKDW FDQ be lived beyond the lens of WKHLU FDPHUD VERDICT: “Mickey 17” is a good — but not great — entry into Bong Joon +R¶V ¿OPRJUDSK\ 'HVSLWH LWV FRPPHQWDU\ RQ UHOHYDQW KXPDQLWDULDQ DQG SROLWLFDO LVVXHV WKH ¿OP¶V RYHUDPELWLRXV VFRSH GLPLQLVKHV LWV LPSDFW 7KH ¿OP SUHVHQWV LWV PHVVDJH LQ EURDG VWURNHV which is particularly undeVLUDEOH IRU YLHZHUV ŶH

highlandernews.org/category/radar

RADAR

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

17

‘Pulse’ ends up a heartbeat away from being ‘meh’ NETFLIX’S NEW MEDICAL DRAMA ULTIMATELY STRUGGLES TO FORGE ITS OWN PATH WITHIN THE GENRE.

COURTESY OF NETFLIX

MADISON ZEPEDA Contributing Writer

When it comes to medical dramas, the particular mixture of romantic foibles and complex surgical situations is a hallmark of the genre. This is especially true for “Pulse,” a new television series QRZ VWUHDPLQJ RQ 1HWÀL[ Starting with a hurricane moving towards their Miami hospital in the ¿UVW IHZ HSLVRGHV ³3XOVH´ IROORZV a group of medical residents as they deal with a barrage of issues. Yet just as life outside of the emergency URRP (5 EHFRPHV GLI¿FXOW VR too does life inside when a human resources complaint is made by Dr. Danny Simms (Willa Fitzgerald) about her superior, Dr. Xander Phillips (Colin Woodell). What takes place afterwards, however, is both an upholding of genre expectations and an altogether disappointing attempt to move beyond them.

The show features a range of solid performances by the main cast, with Fitzgerald taking the lead as the anxious and dedicated Dr. Simms. As a medical resident whose personal relationship with Dr. Phillips ends up endangering her career, Fitzgerald’s performance draws the viewer deeper into her confusing and problematic situation. This is also emphasized WKURXJK D VHULHV RI ÀDVKEDFNV WKDW Simms has, which are accompanied

by her audibly slow heartbeats (in a case of seriously on-the-nose editing).

Another stand-out performance comes through the character of Sophie Chan (Chelsea Muirhead), an intern whose sour outlook on the job is challenged by a joyful new medical student (Daniela Nieves).

Muirhead’s performance gives Dr. Chan a trademark sense of cynicism that has the viewer both resonating with her struggles and hoping that she can overcome them. As a result, she becomes a likable and grounded ¿JXUH UDWKHU WKDQ ZKDW PLJKW KDYH been an annoying side character.

Likewise, the tone of the show is evenly balanced between the hardcore drama of the operating room and the complicated relationships between each of the characters. Although the non-stop hustle of an ER is an expected feature of the genre, the show goes to great lengths to underscore the heavy tension bearing down on each doctor when they work on a patient.

Through a combination of lighting and close-ups, each scene LQVLGH WKH WUDXPD ED\ LV DPSOL¿HG by production techniques that keep viewers’ eyes glued to the screen.

The dark blues and greens found in the operating scenes also help to emphasize the seriousness of these moments.

In contrast, the soulful tone of the URPDQFH LV GH¿QLWHO\ DW LWV VWURQJHVW

when honing in on the previous relationship between Dr. Simms and Dr. Phillips. Here, a golden tint — and Dr. Simms variety of different KDLUVW\OHV ² UHÀHFW KDSSLHU WLPHV while simultaneously providing more intrigue about their present scenario.

Despite the performances and the tone balance, the show’s central storyline falls short of its intention to break away from genre conventions. At the center of Dr. Simms and Dr. Philips’s breakup is a harassment claim, which is largely kept under wraps to keep the audience guessing about its details. :KHQ ¿QDOO\ UHYHDOHG KRZHYHU LW feels as though the topic – and its implications in the workplace — becomes bait for the audience rather than an important theme to explore between these characters.

In essence, the existence of a harassment claim feels out of place for the situation presented in their relationship, and the fact that WKH YLHZHU KDV WR ZDLW WR ¿QG WKLV out makes for a troubling reveal.

Although the show seemingly believes that its presentation of WKLV FRQÀLFW LV FRPSHOOLQJ HQRXJK its inability to examine the full complexity of the claim effectively turns much of the storyline into melodrama.

Another weirdly outstanding part of the series is how it uses production techniques to set up certain scenes as “romantic.” Outside of the

central relationship, the love life of Dr. Cole (Jack Bannon) oscillates between relationships with a nurse (Jessica Rothe) and an admitted patient (Ash Santos). The love triangle is interesting enough on its own, but the show seems to believe WKDW LW EHQH¿WV IURP YHU\ GLUHFW musical cues whenever something romantic is about to take place.

The effect itself is not so overpowering as to be cringy, but it does instill a certain disingenuousness in the show’s presentation of the characters.

Rather than fully exploring the dimensions of the characters’ relationships, the show only alludes to them in a shallow attempt to keep their romantic appeal relevant.

Overall, “Pulse” presents an outline for the kind of medical drama that it wants to be, but the ¿QLVKHG SURGXFW GRHV QRW UHDFK LWV full potential.

VERDICT: For all it’s trying to accomplish, ³3XOVH¶V´ FHQWUDO VWRU\OLQH IDOOV ÀDW on its face as it attempts to expand upon the constraints of its genre.

However, for those looking for a middle-of-the-road medical drama ZLWK DOO WKH SHUNV RI D 1HWÀL[ production budget, this might be worth a watch. ŶH

18 8, APRIL 2025

RADAR

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org

‘Daredevil: Born Again’ marks a return of ‘The Man Without Fear’ Episodes five and six bring back the titular superhero — with a side of action guaranteed.

Ian Palma Contributing Writer

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or those who have EHHQ ELQJLQJ ³'DUHGHYLO %RUQ $JDLQ´ since its release back in March, a protruding quesWLRQ KDV EHHQ UDLVHG DV PRUH episodes continue to be reOHDVHG ZKHUH H[DFWO\ LV 'DUHGHYLO"

turn as the artist and serial NLOOHU 0XVH¶V GHUDQJHG PXUGHUV FRPH WR OLJKW $V WKH body count grows higher and the threat of his friends EHFRPLQJ YLFWLPV EHFRPHV HYHUPRUH SUHVHQW 0XUGRFN PXVW GRQ WKH 'DUHGHYLO FRVWXPH RQFH PRUH LQ RUGHU WR put an end to Muse’s killing 7KH SDVW WKUHH HSLVRGHV RI VSUHH WKH VHULHV YHKHPHQWO\ FHQWHUHG WRZDUGV D PRUH FRXUW- (SLVRGHV ¿YH DQG VL[ RI URRP GUDPD EDVHG DWPR- ³'DUHGHYLO %RUQ $JDLQ´ VSKHUH DFFXVWRPHG WR 0DWW RIIHU DQ H[FLWLQJ UHEXWWDO WR Murdock rather than the WKH FRQYHUVDWLRQ OHG GUDPD superhero action-thriller of VHHQ IURP WKH SUHYLRXV HSLKLV 'DUHGHYLO SHUVRQD $O- VRGHV $OWKRXJK WKHVH HSLthough being a lawyer re- sodes aren’t directly related PDLQV DQ LPSRUWDQW DVSHFW WR HDFK RWKHU LQ WHUPV RI to the character of Murdock, SUHPLVHV LW¶V HYLGHQW KRZ fans rightfully speculated the situations that Murdock that he was going to take up is placed in further force the role of the defender of KLP WR DFFHSW KLV GHVWLQ\ DV Hell’s Kitchen once again 'DUHGHYLO due to his last appearance DV 'DUHGHYLO LQ WKH ¿UVW HSL- 7KH WZR HSLVRGH DUF VXFVRGH ceeds in balancing out acWLRQ DQG GUDPD ZLWK D ELW But with the concurrent re- RI FRPHG\ EURXJKW E\ WKH OHDVH RI HSLVRGHV ¿YH DQG DSSHDUDQFH RI <XVXI .KDQ VL[ WKH VKRZ FRQ¿UPV IDQ 7KH\ DOVR GR DQ H[FHOOHQW VSHFXODWLRQV 0RUHRYHU WKH MRE ZLWK WKH ¿JKW FKRUHRJtwo episodes articulate the UDSK\ RQH RI WKH PRVW EUXLQHYLWDEOH UHWXUQ RI 'DUH- WDO ¿JKW VFHQHV WDNHV SODFH devil in such an entertaining QHDU WKH HQG RI HSLVRGH ¿YH DQG FRPSHOOLQJ ZD\ WKDW LW could easily push the series (SLVRGH VL[ OHDQV LQWR LWV LQWR EHFRPLQJ WKH EHVW 0DU- KRUURU DWPRVSKHUH ZLWK YHO VKRZ RXW WKHUH grace, especially painting (no pun intended) Muse as (SLVRGH ¿YH RI ³'DUHGHY- an otherworldly beast caLO %RUQ $JDLQ´ UHYROYHV SDEOH RI WDNLQJ QXPHURXV around a bank robbery that hits and contorting in inhuMurdock — by both luck PDQ ZD\V $GGLWLRQDOO\ WKH DQG FKRLFH ² EHFRPHV LQ- episode also does a surprisYROYHG LQ :LWK WKH KHOS RI LQJO\ VXSHUE MRE RI GLVSOD\Yusuf Khan, an assistant LQJ WKH SULPDO DQJHU DQG EDQN PDQDJHU DQG PRUH LP- ferocity that Murdock has SRUWDQWO\ WKH IDWKHU RI 0V bottled up over the last three 0DUYHO 0XUGRFN PXVW ¿QG HSLVRGHV a way to diffuse the situation without putting any $OWKRXJK WKHVH VHHP WR EH RWKHU OLYHV DW ULVN :LWK WKH solid episodes, releasing DEVHQFH RI KLV 'DUHGHYLO WKHP WRJHWKHU PD\ EH VHHQ FRVWXPH 0XUGRFN¶V FLU- as peculiar given their largeFXPVWDQFHV EHFRPH DOO WKH ly different tones and lack PRUH GDQJHURXV DV KH KDV RI FRQQHFWLRQ LQ WHUPV RI QRWKLQJ WR SURWHFW KLPVHOI SORW $OWKRXJK IXQ WR ZDWFK RU KLV LGHQWLW\ HSLVRGH ¿YH XQGRXEWHGO\ VHUYHV DV ¿OOHU FRQWHQW WKDW (SLVRGH VL[ WDNHV D GDUNHU ZRXOG¶YH EHHQ PRUH DSSUR-

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priate as a Marvel special HSLVRGHV ¿YH DQG VL[ ZRUN WR H[HPSOLI\ 0XUGRFN¶V SUHVHQWDWLRQ character as he willingly $OWKRXJK UHDVRQDEOH JLYHQ SODFHV KLPVHOI LQ KDUP¶V KLV FLUFXPVWDQFHV 0XU- way, with or without his GRFN¶V UHWXUQ DV 'DUHGHYLO FRVWXPH VHHPV D ELW WRR TXLFN IRU YLHZHUV WR VDYRU 6LPLODUO\ 7KHVH HSLVRGHV VHUYH DV HIthe show’s focus on Muse, fective causes for Murdock whose plotline was placed WR FRPH WR WHUPV ZLWK ZKR LQ WKH EDFNVHDW LV VRPH- KH LV %XW VLQFH DOO FDXVHV what sudden and underde- FRPH ZLWK HIIHFWV LW LV RQO\ inevitable that Frisk is now YHORSHG in the crosshairs of Fisk and 2QH RI WKH PRVW EODWDQW his newly established antiDEQRUPDOLWLHV VWHPV IURP YLJLODQWH IRUFH HSLVRGH VL[¶V VKRGG\ YLVXDO effects that occur during 9HUGLFW (SLVRGHV ¿YH DQG RQH RI LWV PRVW LPSHUDWLYH VL[ DUH MXVW DV FDSWLYDWLQJ DV VFHQHV 'HVSLWH WKHLU ÀDZV they are quintessential when

LW FRPHV WR XQGHUVWDQGLQJ WKH FKDUDFWHU RI 'DUHGHYLO With only three episodes left, the show leaves the UHHPHUJLQJ GHYLO RI +HOO¶V .LWFKHQ WR GHWHUPLQH KLV QH[W PRYH NQRZLQJ WKDW he’s now on the wrong side RI WKH ODZ ŶH

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org

Cartier ’s Love Bracelet: A symbol of everlasting commitment

8LI 'EVXMIV 0SZI &VEGIPIX XVERWJSVQIH NI[IPV] MRXS E W]QFSP SJ PSZI ERH HIZSXMSR Sarah Tabel Contributing Writer

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8, APRIL 2025 19

Top 10 Spring Movies 7TVMRK MRXS XLI RI[ WIEWSR [MXL XLIWI QYWX [EXGL ÁPQW Aakif Iqbal Staff Writer “(500) Days of Summer”

“Something Wild” (1986)

(2009) Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel have never soared higher than in “(500) Days of Summer.” This film contains one of the greatest soundtracks compiled to enhance its cinematic experience as well as some great comedic moments. It epitomizes a spring film with its picnic scene and record store dates.

Jonathan Demme’s off-beat adventure film is not one talked about enough. It’s hilarious, romantic and a lot of fun. With its notable soundtrack, great 1980s nostalgia, and two captivating lead performances

by Melanie Griffith and Jeff Daniels, this film is just the kind of breezy movie to watch as winter transitions into spring.

“Perfect Days” (2023)

Wim Wenders is best known for films like “Paris, Texas” and “Wings of Desire,” but “Perfect Days” could not be more different. The film follows a janitor in Japan who photographs the sunlight as it passes through the trees and listens to his classic rock cassettes. It is both funny and strange and occasionally melancholic, but it’s the exact kind of movie to watch for inspiration and “Before Sunrise” (1995) Tailor-made for yearners, as a reminder to appreciate Richard Linklater’s 1995 ro- life a little bit more! mantic classic is the perfect film to unwind to as the sun comes out. Featuring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy as its Young Girls of leads, the film’s Generation “The Rochefort” (1967) X themes still resonate with Jacque Demy’s anamorphic viewers today. Go into this musical may not be the first movie blind if possible; the film that comes to mind for riveting plot twists are guarmany as a Springtime clasanteed to be a treat. sic, but the colorful cos-

tumes and set design are treats for the eyes and help leave the seasonal depres“After Life” (1998) “If there is only one memory sion behind! Catherine Deyou could take to the after- neuve and Gene Kelly have life, what would it be?” That never been better. This film is the central question asked is a great ensemble piece

by Hirokazu Koreda’s 1998 that has inspired everything film “After Life.” It has a qui- from more recent films like et, slow pace, but it's just as “Barbie” and “La La Land.” sweet and memorable as any other film on this list. Give it a shot, it may stick with audiences for longer than “Asteroid City” (2023) For the calmer moments in expected. the season, slow down and reflect on the meaning of life – “if there even is one” – “Marie Antoinette” with Wes Anderson’s “Aster(2006) Sofia Coppola’s Y2K piece oid City.” Composed of one is a blast. It features Kirsten of his most acclaimed casts Dunst in her best role as the — with Scarlett Johansson, former Queen of France as Tom Hanks, Margot Robshe goes from a teenager to bie, Adrien Brody and other royalty. The film’s anachro- well-known actors — this nistic fashion, soundtrack movie is hilarious and offfeaturing The Strokes and beat just as his other films Aphex Twin and coming- are, but with a touch of exof-age-esque montages are istentialism and some 1950s some of the many gems to nostalgia. discover. Watch this for the greenery and set pieces and stay for the memorable story.

“Daisies” (1966)

Věra Chytilová’s 1966 absurdist avant-garde film has everything one could ever want. It follows two girls as they conduct pranks and mess around. The cinematography features shots in fields and plants, crazy editing and a conveniently short run-time. This movie is also a must-see for those looking for something a little bit more weird and quirky as the leaves turn green.

“C’mon C’mon” (2021)

Mike Mills’s black-andwhite indie film is a beautiful work of art. It offered the first role that Joaquin Phoenix took on after winning the Oscar for “Joker,” and it could not be more different.

The movie follows his character, Johnny, as he has to look after his nephew Jesse.

It’s funny and heartwarming and is the perfect movie to remind audiences to pay a little extra attention to the small details in life, like birds chirping.ŶH

'HVLJQHG LQ LQ 1HZ Courtesy of Pinterest

20 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

SPORTS

highlandernews.org/category/sports

:ĺĹļľĽ “I love New York City … and it’s why I aggressively pursued this opportunity” UCR MEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACH, MIKE MAGPAYO, AGREES TO A SIX-YEAR DEAL TO COACH FORDHAM MEN’S BASKETBALL. TERRY NGUYEN (ZZPZ[HU[ :WVY[Z ,KP[VY

will be entering the Transfer Portal. Pickens started in n March 28, ES- 33 games for the HighlandPN’s Pete Thamel ers this year, and was highly reported that Ford- touted for his defensive abiliham University has agreed ties by Magpayo.

Sophomore forward, Rito a six-year deal with Mike kus Schulte, posted on X that Magpayo to become their next men’s basketball head he’s transferring to Fordham coach. He departed the Uni- for the 2025-2026 season, afversity of California, River- ter playing one year with the side (UCR) with an 89-63 Highlanders.

Coach Magpayo has preoverall record going 55-32 in FRQIHUHQFH SOD\ DFURVV ¿YH vious ties to New York City, as he was the director of opseasons.

When Magpayo initially erations, assistant coach and took the job at UCR, the recruiting coordinator for men’s basketball team was Columbia University men’s consistently near the bottom basketball from 2010-2014.

Magpayo opened the of the Big West standings, and was on the brink of los- Fordham press conference, ing their Division I status sharing, “I love New York within the National Colle- City. It’s the greatest city giate Athletic Association in the world. It’s my favor(NCAA). During Magpayo’s ite city in the world, and it’s tenure, the Highlanders had why I aggressively pursued the second-best record in the this opportunity.”

“When [Fordham athletic %LJ :HVW RYHU WKH ODVW ¿YH director] Charles [Guthrie] seasons, reaching as far as called me [to inform me I WKH FRQIHUHQFH VHPL¿QDOV “I wanna thank my pre- got the job], everything froze vious athletic director, and tears streamed down my Wes[ley] Mallette, who face,” expressed Magpayo.

From a basketball perWRRN D FKDQFH RQ WKH ¿UVW spective, Magpayo stated full Asian/Filipino coach in Division I history, and gave he wants a “prepared” and me everything I needed to be “gritty” team, with size at successful at UCR,” Mag- every position. He echoed, payo commented during his “We’re going to defend, reintroductory press confer- bound, [and] take care of ence on the campus of Ford- the ball,” around Rose Hill Gymnasium, as he hopes to ham last Wednesday.

Magpayo isn’t the only elevate Fordham basketball Highlander departing from to the top half of the Atlantic the men’s basketball team. 10 Conference.

Coach Magpayo arrived All-Big West First Team selection, Barrington Hargress, at the press conference with has announced he’s entered his wife and two sons. He the Transfer Portal on Insta- shared, “I wanna especially gram after setting the UCR thank my wife, the toughest single-season scoring record of all the Magpayos, Caroline … UC Riverside has in the 2024-2025 season.

“Thank you to the coaches been home to us for the last who took a chance on a kid seven years. Now she’ll have playing late in his senior to take the challenge of car[high school] year. I will ing for two little monsters, always be thankful for ev- Luka and Milo, while planerything [that] not only the ning our move across the school has given me but the country.”

Magpayo’s legacy at UCR city has … With that being said I would like to announce will not be forgotten. He left I will be entering the Trans- the men’s basketball program in a much better place fer Portal!”

H Nate Pickens also an- than when he arrived. Ŷ nounced on Instagram he

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COURTESY OF UCR ATHLETICS

COURTESY OF SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org

SPORTS

8, APRIL 2025 21

Tartan Tailgating: Meeting the THNUPÄJLU[ 4HYJV -HIPmU 1] I\TIVMIRGI [EXGLMRK XLIR MRXIVZMI[MRK SRI SJ Q] JEZSVMXI WSGGIV TPE]IVW SJ EPP XMQI Isaac Solnick Sports Editor

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n March 23, the (PSLUH 6WU\NHUV KRVWHG WKH 6DQ 'Lego Sockers in a tense MaMRU $UHQD 6RFFHU /HDJXH 0$6/ PDWFK DW WKH 7R\RWD $UHQD 7KH WZR 6RXWKern California rivals played each other the previous day DW WKH )URQWZDYH $UHQD LQ Oceanside, with the Sockers earning a back-and-forth YLFWRU\

EURXJKW ZLWK PH P\ EHVW RXW¿W DQG P\ IULHQG¶V 0H[LFR 0DUFR )DELiQ MHUVH\ WR JHW VLJQHG

where errors can lead to goals quickly in the right ZD\ ZH SOD\ %XW WKH DLP LV WR WU\ DQG JULQG WKH WHDP down and take over the JDPH DV WKH JDPH ZHDUV RQ ZKLFK , JXHVV ZH GLG <RX GRQ¶W ZDQW WR JHW LQ D ¿YH goal hole, but we did, and we dug ourselves out of it, which is nice, but still a lot RI HUURUV WR JLYH WKHP WKDW PDQ\ JRDOV ´

, FRXOGQ¶W ZDLW WR PHHW KLP EXW WKH JDPH QHHGHG WR EH SOD\HG ¿UVW 7R\RWD $UHQD ZDV EX]]LQJ WR VWDUW WKH PDWFK 1HYHUWKHOHVV WKH 6RFNHUV ZHUHQ¶W ID]HG 7KH\ VFRUHG D TXLFN JRDO LQ WKH RSHQLQJ PLQXWH EHIRUH MXPSLQJ RXW WR DQ HDUO\ 7KH ZLQ FHPHQWHG WKH 6RFN- OHDG $IWHU WDONLQJ ZLWK 2EDVL LW ers’ status as one of the preZDV WLPH WR LQWHUYLHZ )DPLHU WHDPV RI WKH 0$6/ 7KH\¶G HYHQ H[WHQG WKHLU ELiQ , KDG EHHQ ZDWFKLQJ Meanwhile, the result repre- lead to 6-1 in the third quar- KLP RQ 79 DQG RQ <RX7XEH VHQWHG D PLVVHG RSSRUWXQLW\ ter before the Strykers ral- for years, but now he was for the Strykers to punch OLHG EDFN 'HVSLWH ORVLQJ IRU ¿QDOO\ ULJKW LQ IURQW RI PH WKHLU WLFNHW WR WKH 0$6/ WKH PRVW RI WKH JDPH WKH SOD\RIIV )RUWXQDWHO\ WKH HQHUJ\ LQ WKH 7R\RWD $UHQD 'HVSLWH WKH ORVV )DELiQ VHFRQG KDOI RI WKH KRPH QHYHU IDGHG 7KH KRPH VLGH VWUHVVHG WKH LPSRUWDQFH RI DQG KRPH VHULHV SURYLGHG fed off the adoration of the WKH JDPH VKDULQJ ³6HVD\ WKH 6WU\NHUV ZLWK RQH PRUH fans as they went on a 7-1 IRU XV LV D OHJHQG +H WHDFKscoring run in the late third es us a lot of things, and it’s FKDQFH DQG HDUO\ IRXUWK SHULRG D SOHDVXUH WR MXVW VKDUH WKH However, that wasn’t the ¿HOG ZLWK KLP DQG ZH ZHUH only thing the Strykers were Fabián would score during MXVW JRQQD NHHS JRLQJ DQG SOD\LQJ IRU 7KH JDPH ZDV this run as I couldn’t help try to get [to the] playoffs )DQ $SSUHFLDWLRQ 1LJKW DQG EXW VPLOH DV WKH 6WU\NHUV MXVW IRU KLP ´ the Strykers faithful didn’t WRRN DQ OHDG 7KH 6RFN(GG\ %DVXUWR 7KH +LJKODQGHU GLVDSSRLQW 7KH PDWFK VHW D ers would get one back to Fabián also showed his apnew attendance record and IRUFH RYHUWLPH EXW DOO WKH preciation for the fans, who second one against Barcecrowd noise in the arena PRPHQWXP ZDV VWLOO ZLWK PDLQWDLQHG WKHLU HQHUJ\ ORQD LV RQH RI P\ IDYRULWHV WKH 6WU\NHUV ZDV GHDIHQLQJ WKURXJKRXW WKH PDWFK +H %XW DOVR RQH RI P\ IDYRULWHV H[SUHVVHG ³,W¶V JRRG EH- ZDV DJDLQVW *HUPDQ\ DW WKH ,Q VXGGHQ GHDWK RYHUWLPH ,Q DGGLWLRQ WKH JDPH ZDV cause today we have a lot of [2017] Confederations Cup likely to be club legend Isra- the Strykers kept push- IXQ 7KLV LV UHDOO\ LPSRUWDQW LQ 5XVVLD $QG RQH DJDLQVW HO 6HVD\¶V ODVW KRPH PDWFK LQJ IRU WKDW JDPH ZLQQLQJ for us, and at the end of the ,QWHU GH 3RUWR $OHJUH LQ WKH ZLWK WKH 6WU\NHUV 7KH 6LHU- JRDO (DFK FKDQFH ORRNHG GD\ >WKH IDQV@ HQMR\ >WKH Copa Libertadores Final [is dangerous, JDPH@ :H JR SOD\ H[WUD RQH RI P\ EHVW JRDOV@ ´ ra Leone-born defender has increasingly EXW WKH\ FRXOGQ¶W TXLWH ¿QG spent over a decade with the WLPH DQG LW¶V H[FLWLQJ ´ Strykers and wore the cap- WKH EDFN RI WKH QHW 6WLQVRQ +H WKHQ VLJQHG P\ IULHQG¶V even hit the post, yet the WDLQ¶V DUPEDQG LQ KLV ODVW , WKHQ DVNHG KLP DERXW KLV MHUVH\ DQG , ZDV WKH KDS6RFNHUV VWD\HG DOLYH MXVW DOO WLPH IDYRULWH JRDO )D- SLHVW PDQ LQ WKH ZRUOG WKDW PDWFK DW 7R\RWD $UHQD ORQJ HQRXJK bián has always had a knack QLJKW , VWLOO FRXOGQ¶W EHOLHYH Sesay leads a squad headIRU VFRULQJ D MDZ GURSSLQJ , LQWHUYLHZHG RQH RI P\ IDlined by two of the top scor- $IWHU DQ XQIRUWXQDWH ERXQFH goal with his powerful right vorite soccer players of all HUV LQ WKH 0$6/ 0LG¿HOG for the Strykers, the Sock- IRRW FRPELQHG ZLWK KLV ÀDLU WLPH OHW DORQH PHW KLP duo Justin Stinson and Mar- ers capitalized on the turn- +LV <RX7XEH KLJKOLJKWV DUH co Fabián power one of the over and escaped with a DPRQJVW WKH EHVW DQG LW¶V 7KH 6WU\NHUV GLGQ¶W NQRZ LW OHDJXH¶V PRVW H[FLWLQJ RI- RYHUWLPH YLFWRU\ 7KH ZK\ KH¶V D IDYRULWH DPRQJVW that night, but they would Strykers were devastated P\ IULHQGV IHQVHV eventually qualify for the as they knew their playoff 0$6/ SOD\RIIV &RLQFLGHQ)DELiQ D IRUPHU 0H[LFDQ hopes were now hanging in , WROG KLP P\ IDYRULWHV DUH tally, they’d face the Sockhis pair of goals against HUV LQ WKH TXDUWHU ¿QDOV WKLV international, is a favorite WKH EDODQFH FC Barcelona, but I really SDVW )ULGD\ DPRQJVW PH DQG P\ IULHQGV :LWK D PHGLD SDVV , NQHZ Stryker’s head coach, Onua ZDQWHG WR KHDU IURP )DELiQ I’d get the chance to inter- 2EDVL VKDUHG SRVWJDPH He chuckled and responded, 2EDVL PHQWLRQHG ZKDW KLV YLHZ KLP DIWHU WKH JDPH , “We have a style of play “Of course, especially the WHDP ZRXOG QHHG WR GR LI

they played the Sockers in the playoffs, “Well, it’s OLNHO\ ZH ZLOO IDFH WKHP >7KH 6RFNHUV@ DUH D WRS WHDP 7KH\¶YH JRW VHYHQ DOO VWDUV RQ WKHLU WHDP :H SXVK WKHP DOO WKH ZD\ back, and they still have FRQ¿GHQFH MXVW WR >FRPHback] at the end like that at WKH HQG 6R ZH MXVW >KDYH@ WR PDNH VXUH ZH XQGHUVWDQG their strengths and [put out D JRRG SHUIRUPDQFH@ ´ Unfortunately, they would lose to the Sockers once DJDLQ )DELiQ VFRUHG LQ WKH ORVV EXW LW ZDV IRUPHU Highlander and 2022 Big :HVW &KDPSLRQ /HRSROGR “Polo” Hernandez who was WKH PDQ RI WKH PDWFK IRU WKH 6WU\NHUV +H DVVLVWHG RQ ERWK JRDOV HQGLQJ KLV ¿UVW VHDVRQ LQ WKH 0$6/ RQ D KLJK QRWH ŶH

22 TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

SPORTS

THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org/sports

Highlander in the Arena Brooke Perez deals 8.0 scoreless innings against CSUN TRENDEE KAHUNAHANA’S WALK-OFF HOME RUN EARNS UCR A HUGE 3-2 EXTRA INNINGS VICTORY AGAINST RED-HOT MATADORS.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF UCR ATHLETICS

ISAAC SOLNICK :WVY[Z ,KP[VY

On Sunday, March 29, the University of California, Riverside (UCR) softball team had their EDFNV DJDLQVW WKH ZDOO ,Q WKH ¿nale of their three-game home series against the California State University, Northridge (CSUN) Matadors, the Highlanders found themselves down 2-1 in the fourth inning and were on the verge of beLQJ VZHSW RQ WKHLU RZQ ¿HOG At that moment, UCR head coach Brittney Mata decided to make a change on the mound. In came junior pitcher Brooke Perez.

Perez struggled in her previous two outings against UC San Diego and Grand Canyon University.

Nevertheless, Mata put her trust in the right-hander.

Perez awarded Mata’s faith.

Perez didn’t just slow down the Matadors, she dominated them.

Perez pitched 8.0 scoreless innings while allowing just four hits and just one walk. Perez stressed the LPSRUWDQFH 0DWD DQG KHU VWD൵ KDYH played in her success this season.

Perez expressed, “The coaching VWD൵ KDV EHHQ DEOH WR SXVK XV WR another level, and being able to go out there and show we can and do

our best. When sometimes there’s other people rooting against you, I NQRZ WKDW ZLWK WKLV FRDFKLQJ VWD൵ I’m always being rooted for, and that’s helped me so much.”

However, the Matadors tandem of junior right-handers Lauryn Carranco and Isabella Alonso made this game a pitching duel.

Carranco and Alonso each pitched 5.0 innings, surrendering a total of eight hits.

The Highlanders leveled the score in the sixth inning as freshPDQ ¿UVW EDVHPDQ +DOH\ 6DROH GURYH LQ MXQLRU RXW¿HOGHU (WD /DXWL with a single. Yet the game was still tied at 2-2 at the end of the seventh, so extra innings were needed.

The additional pressure didn’t faze Perez as she only allowed a single baserunner in the extra four frames. Perez shared, “I feel like the pressure is always going to be there. It’s kind of what gets me going, gets me motivated to really show my best against [the] other team ... I play softball for that reason, for that extra challenge, for the extra push. And that’s exactly what the extra innings did. I knew if I kept going out there and holding them to no runs, that my team would end up showing out at the

end.”

It wouldn’t be until the eleventh inning, but sophomore shortstop Trendee Kahunahana would be the one to step up for the Highlanders.

Known more for her speed and defense, no one could have expected what would happen next. Down 0-1 in the count, she belted a walkR൵ VROR KRPHU RYHU WKH OHIW ¿HOG ZDOO .DKXQDKDQD¶V ¿UVW FDUHHU home run couldn’t have come at a better time for the Highlanders.

7KH ZDON R൵ ZLQ LPSURYHV UCR’s conference record to 6-6 as they jostle for position in the Big West standings. Perez’s stellar performance earned UCR StudentAthlete of the Week honors.

When asked about the award, Perez commented, “There [are] so

many great athletes [at UCR], and to be able to be recognized for that is awesome. It also shines on the rest of my team. So I’m happy to get a little bit of notice from everyone at the school.”

Despite the award, Perez noted that she still has plenty of room to grow. She added, “I’ve grown in all aspects. Freshman year me ZRXOG GH¿QLWHO\ EH SURXG RI P\self. Today, I’ve been able to put myself through the hard challenges that I thought maybe I wouldn’t be able to in the past ... Whether it be a win or a loss, my love continues to grow for the challenges, the people, and everything that comes with it has been so rewarding in the end.” ŶH

SPORTS

highlandernews.org/category/sports

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

ADELIA URENA / THE HIGHLANDER

MEN’S GOLF - 3/30/2025 - 4/1/2025

Seattle U Redhawk Invitational

PLACE

TEAM

R1

R2

R3

TOTAL

1

UC Riverside*

292

288

276

856

2

St. Thomas

284

293

279

856

3

Oregon State

287

293

279

859

4

George Mason

281

299

286

866

5

Seattle University

286

296

287

869

*UC RIVERSIDE WON REDHAWK INVITATIONAL VIA ONE-HOLE PLAYOFF

WOMEN’S GOLF - 3/31/2025 - 4/1/2025

Fresno State Classic

PLACE

TEAM

R1

R2

R3

TOTAL

1

CSUN

302

295

285

882

2

UC Riverside

303

288

292

883

3

Fresno State

305

296

294

895

T4

Weber State

303

304

289

896

T4

Tarleton State

308

299

289

896

BASEBALL - 4/4/2025

SOFTBALL - 4/5/2025

UCR VS. CSUB

UCR VS. HAWAII

UCR Team Leaders:

UCR Team Leaders:

Joshua Martinez: 4.0 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 5 K, 1 BB Landon Nunes: 2/4

Brooke Perez: L (3-6), 4.0 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 3 K Eta Lauti: 3/3, 2 R, 1 RBI

SOFTBALL - 4/4/2025

SOFTBALL - 4/5/2025

UCR VS. HAWAII

UCR VS. HAWAII

7-2, L

4-3, L

3-2, L

4-2, W

UCR Team Leaders:

UCR Team Leaders: Raegan Everett: W (5-6), 7.0 IP, 7 H, 0 ER, 5 K, 3 BB Jackie Alday: 1/3, 1 R, 3 RBI

Maddie Heinlin: L (8-10), 6.1 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 4 K, 1 BB Jackie Alday: 4/4, 1 R, 1 RBI

BASEBALL - 4/5/2025

UCR VS. CSUB

2-0, W UCR Team Leaders: Matthew Flores: W (2-3), 6.1 IP, 2 H, 0 ER, 10 K, 3 BB Robert Pitts: 2/4 PHOTOS COURTESY OF UCR ATHLETICS

23

Be animalistic.

The Highlander Newspaper is a great way to keep up with current events and news around campus. If you are interested in the newspaper’s articles or pictures, we offer opportunities in writing, photography and design. Join us every Monday at 5:15 p.m. in HUB 101 to learn more.

THE HIGHLANDER PAUL LEWIS III / THE HIGHLANDER