Vol. 102, Issue 6

RIVERSIDE CITY COLLEGE VIEWPOINTSONLINE.ORG

MAY 23, 2024

VOL. 102, NO. 6

Different grind, different hustle:

The Missile

College honors student with memorial

LACEY JAMES EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

A memorial was held at Riverside City College to mourn the loss of one of its students Carlos Daniel Pedroza Villalobos on May 9 in the Quadrangle courtyard.

The memorial was organized

by Associated Students of Riverside City College and in attendance was President Clarissa Juarez who guided the two-hour ceremony.

The courtyard was packed with students, staff, faculty, friends and family who came to show their respects for Pedroza Villalobos. Electronic candles were also passed out to attendees to honor Pedroza Villalobos.

The courtyard had a seated covered area with balloons honoring Pedroza Villalobos.

Orange flowers were placed at the podium that displayed a photo of Pedroza Villalobos where attendees were encouraged to bring flowers.

Pedroza Villalobos died on April 16 at RCC. “Dear fellow students, faculty and staff, today we gather with heavy hearts to mourn the loss of one of our own,” Juarez said.

“The passing of a member of our community is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment we have together. As we come together in solidarity, let us remember Danny, not for how they left us, but the light they brought into our lives.”

See Page 6 - 7

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NEWS

MVC president retires

12

LIFE

Stem Conect-ions Expo

SEE MEMORIAL on page 4

INDEX NEWS

2

OPINIONS

8

EDITORIAL

9

SPORTS

11

LIFE

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2 May 23, 2024 NEWS BRIEFS Pathway to Law Open House Riverside City College’s Pathway to Law School will be hosting an open house for students interested in the program. All majors and pathways are invited to learn about the Pathway to Law School, undergrad and law school partners, college and university tours, and law conferences. The event will be held in the Bradshaw Building Hall of Fame on May 24.

Check-in will be from 9:30-10 a.m., and the program will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Graduation Festival Riverside City College will be hosting a graduation festival to celebrate those graduating and transferring. Photos with administration, food, graduation regalia pickup, grad cap decorating, and more will be available, free to all students. The festival will take place on May 28 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the Arthur G. Paul Quadrangle.

Black Graduation The Umoja Community at Riverside City College will be hosting a special graduation ceremony dedicated to honoring their students’ success. The ceremony also welcomes those who are graduating or transferring. The event will take place on June 1 from 3-5 p.m. in the Arthur G. Paul Quadrangle.

Commencement Ceremony Riverside City College will be celebrating the class of 2024 June 7 with four commencement ceremonies i n t h e L a n d i s T h e a t e r.

Ceremonies will be held at 12 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Check-in will be an hour before the ceremony, and guest seating will begin 30 minutes before the ceremony.

Final Exams Final exams will begin on Friday, May 31. June 7 will be the final day of the spring 2024 semester.

Chief of Police Retires Riverside City College District Chief of Police Christopher Cano will retire May 31, according to RCCD Vice Chancellor Aaron S. Brown.

Cano was initially sworn in as Chief of Police on March 21, 2023.

To s t a y u p t o d a t e o n upcoming campus events, visit the Viewpoints calendar listed at viewpointsonline. org.

If you have events happening on campus that you want featured on the calendar, send information about the event to viewpoints@rcc.edu.

Editor: Natalie Strain | Asst. Editor: Annabel Silva | Viewpoints@rcc.edu

Radiating possibilities, legacy of president ERIC PACHECO MANGING EDITOR

M o r e n o Va l l e y C o l l e g e President Robin Steinback sits in her office, her walls covered with paintings that she’s collected over the years from students of hers and colleagues. Each painting on her wall is made by women about women and each piece of art represents a story. A story of growth, pursuit, and activism that has led to the conclusion of her seven-year term as president of MVC and the culmination of a nearly 45-year career in higher education.

MVC’s fourth college president announced earlier this spring that she would be packing up her paintings and retiring to her 42-acre ranch. The end of her tenure brings a time of reflection, something that she isn’t very accustomed to, having always focused on “what’s next?”

Steinback made a decision when she was a first-generation college student at Mt. San Jacinto College that she was going to pursue a career in the community colleges motivated by the passing of Proposition 13 which ended up cutting 50% of course offerings at her college.

“What I saw was that my opportunities and the opportunities of other people in community colleges were drastically affected by that funding cut and that I might not realize my goal of having a baccalaureate degree,” Steinback said.

This led her down a path of activism, a path that she has not abandoned after all these years.

Inspired by Dr. Milo Johnson, the founding president and superintendent of MSJC, she was urged to take her activism to the

community colleges.

“He actually encouraged my involvement in student government, he took me to conferences, and really became a mentor to me,” Steinback said.

In the future, Steinback looks forward to relaxing and some traveling but most importantly she looks to continue blazing a path of activism.

“There is so much to talk about and respond to in terms of people’s rights,” she insisted.

“I’m concerned that some of the challenges to people’s rights are the same kind of challenges I had when I was a kid.”

Post MVC, other issues that will continue to fuel her activism are limitations on what people can read and limitations on people’s bodies. She also remains invested in tackling racial injustice.

“I was raised in a family where that mattered to us, as I grew to be an adult we sought changes in law because changes in law meant then that was codified and things were going to be okay,” she said.

The journey which began at her alma mater, took her up north to Solano County, and back down to San Diego County, blazing a path of activism and student focus within the administration of each college where she was employed.

Her journey ultimately led her back to Riverside County and MVC. “This is where my home is, my home is here,” Steinback said.

During her tenure, MVC was able to rebound after The Great Recession of the late 2000s, restoring courses, bringing enrollment numbers back up to par, and reducing the time to completion.

She also hired 64% of the full-time faculty and 28 of the 32 managers. She contributes that

Photo courtesy of Moreno Valley College Herald success and the success of her team people,” she stated. as a large part of her legacy.

Her departing message to N o m a t t e r a l l h e r her students closely resembles accomplishments her central goal the message she delivers at remains the same until her final commencement. She encourages day in office. the students to go out and face “Moreno Valley College should the hard challenges life offers but be the college of choice for the to always know that they can be people who live here,” Steinback anything they want to be. said proudly.

“I think of our students as Steinback hopes to deliver the adding value to our society and message to her successor that they that we need their contributions, are coming into a college of great that we need their voices,” she commitment to student success. declared. “I believe that the The staff is composed of people experience they’ve had, they’ve who more closely resemble the had the opportunity to find their students than when she arrived in voice, to connect, at least with Moreno Valley 11 years ago. an initial career. They have the “There might be some budget skills, they have the knowledge, challenges, but the college is well and they have the connections to positioned for them because of its be successful.”

Academic Senate announces president’s advisory council AKIRA MORRIS STAFF REPORTER

Riverside City College tackled pivotal issues in its second-to-last Academic Senate meeting, notably the formation of the President’s Advisory Council on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility, Anti-Racism, and Belonging for Social and Economic Justice (DEIAAB/SEJ) on May 6.

RCC President Claire Oliveros announced the opening of nominations for the DEIAAB/SEJ committee.

“The hope is that this group or this call attracts interest to form a 15-member body appointed by our respective constituency shared governance groups,” Oliveros said. “This body will work in consultation and collaboration to advance the work of DEIAAB/SEJ through our shared governance and leadership councils.”

The council includes representatives from administration, faculty, student leaders and community-based organizations. It will be an umbrella body addressing intense topics within the college’s shared

governance structure.

Oliveros emphasized the council’s commitment to addressing policies and their implementation, along with procedures, protocols and innovative approaches to ensure or create more equitable opportunities for all RCC groups.

Membership criteria for the council includes recommendations from the Academic Senate, California Teachers Association ( C TA ) , C a l i f o r n i a S c h o o l Employees Association (CSEA) and Associated Students of RCC AKIRA MORRIS| VIEWPOINTS (ASRCC). Applications were due President Jo Scott-Coe beginning the Academic Senate meeting on May 6.

by May 22.

The proposed objectives of agreements and implementing participation from all members the council include listening and a culture of change through the of the RCC community to ensure responding to the RCC community’s leadership councils. diverse perspectives and genuine concerns and advocating for The council will also have goals contributions toward reaching respectful interactions. The that involve utilizing disaggregated DEIAAB/SEJ goals. objectives also include building data, acknowledging RCC’s tribal T h e A c a d e m i c S e n a t e ’s an inclusive organizational culture, connections, assessing DEIAAB/ deliberations highlighted RCC’s celebrating multiculturalism, SEJ processes, identifying equity- commitment to enhancing a promoting culturally responsive minded professional learning welcoming environment and communication, assessing campus opportunities towards institutional tackling deep-rooted forms of climate and monitoring the change, diversifying hiring, inequality. college’s strategic plan through a facilitating professional learning The college established the DEIAAB/SEJ lens. communities, and advancing President’s Advisory Council on The proposal will focus on guided pathways and culturally DEIAAB/SEJ to advance fairness specific areas, such as developing responsive curriculum. and equality within its campus guiding principles and community Oliveros encourages active community and beyond.

May 23, 2024

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Humphrey fellowship hosts conference JOANNAH CLEMENTE STAFF REPORTER

Humphrey Fellows embarked on cross-cultural exchange to address global challenges with students at Riverside City College’s Hall of Fame room in the Bradshaw building on May 1.

Sponsored by the Riverside Community College District Global Learning and Study Abroad Committee, three scholars from this year’s Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program cohort participated in an on-campus educational panel discussion.

Wendy Umave, a scholar from Papua New Guinea, reflected on the transformative value of immersing oneself in a different environment.

“I had to navigate being among the most developed and advanced nation,” she remarked.

“Being a productive member and contributing to the global community is something I’ll take with me.”

David Chak, hailing from Malaysia, highlighted the enriching experiences gained through travel and exposure to diverse cultures.

“You get to see so much of the world,” Chak expressed, emphasizing the profound impact of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.

Oscar Hendrix, an advocate from Honduras, shared insights on the nuanced understanding gained through interaction with American society.

He emphasized the proactive nature of the American populace.

“The U.S. people are always there trying to help,” Hendrix said.

Amidst the discourse, the scholars exchanged insights on policy reform.

Chak, an education policy scholar, explored the interplay between federal and state authorities regarding the U.S. education system.

“It could be very fragmented,” he said. “Let’s take teaching critical race theory for example, which we should have some kind of leeway for teachers to do.”

Chak emphasized the need for more uniformity and adaptability in curriculum implementation.

Reflecting on his U.S. college visits, Chak cited Malaysia’s public school admission policy—no rejections.

“It means students have the right to receive education regardless of their citizen status because school is always a sanctuary ground,” Chak said.

Umave, a pharmacist, highlighted the integration of primary health care within Papua New Guinea communities.

She emphasized the importance of bringing essential services directly into communities.

“It’s very challenging for them to access quality health care, even with universal health coverage,” Umave said.

She noted the logistical challenges in accessing healthcare facilities, particularly in developing countries.

Umave advocates for community ownership of health while ensuring sustainable, longterm solutions.

She emphasized proactive, community-driven initiatives and a focus on preventive healthcare.

“It’s counterproductive,” U m a v e s a i d . “ We a r e i n a developing country and what will work for us is public health incorporated into our contexts.”

Discussing the challenges

JENNIFER CARDONA-LEON | VIEWPOINTS Humphrey Fellows Delegation academic panel discussion with David Chak, Wendy Umave and Oscar Hendrix at the Hall of Fame room on May 1.

of implementing healthcare interventions, Umave referenced the issue of excessive sugar consumption in some foods.

She said that implementation science is about addressing resistance to interventions that aim to improve health outcomes.

With fervor, Hendrix shed light on pressing issues of transparency, corruption and environmental reform in Honduras.

“In my country, we’re masters in transparency, challenges on human rights and climate change due to the challenges we face with corruption,” he said.

Highlighting the disparity in resources and capacity to tackle environmental issues, Hendrix also emphasized the importance of innovative approaches.

However, Hendrix noted they don’t have the human resources to

reach those goals.

“Sometimes innovation is when you don’t have to be so creative,” he said. “It’s just something small, impactful actions.”

Hendrix cited the Minnesota GreenCorps as a model for engaging youth in environmental activism and education.

Noting its effectiveness in empowering communities, he stated, “It provided youth training, stipends and environmental education while addressing migration and unemployment.”

Additionally, Hendrix praised California’s progressive policies, such as requiring banks to report on the carbon footprint of funded projects by 2025.

He said California is way ahead of the government in that area.

Contrasting that with the situation in Honduras, he stated,

“The banks in my country are not held accountable for their role in financing environmentally harmful projects.”

He sought similar accountability policies in Honduras, underscoring the need for systemic environmental changes.

However, for Hendrix, the challenge lies in implementing and adapting to the realities of his country.

Despite this hurdle, he stressed the link between environmental s u s t a i n a b i l i t y, f i n a n c i a l accountability and social justice in global activism.

“Most of us who get into climate activism do so out of consciousness, not because we have a technical background,” Hendrix asserted.

Protesters rally in Quad, back Palestine ALIAH TUBBS STAFF REPORTER

Students at Riverside City College attended a Peaceful Student Rally for Palestine in support of Palestinians on Tuesday, May 7 in the Arthur G. Paul Quadrangle on campus held

by Inland Empire Against Empire.

“We called on students, faculty, admin, anybody willing to come,” said the media representative, Marcy, who declined to be identified. “We’re trying to establish a presence of students on campus that are supportive of the Palestinian people, bring awareness to the genocide.”

Many protestors declined to give their full name.

Inland Empire Against Empire organized the event and announced the protocols and rules of the rally. They also had a media representative and a police negotiator in attendance.

At the start of the rally, Juno explained a few rules and how to be safe so the rally could be executed smoothly.

There were multiple students and organizers explaining their

thoughts on the events happening in Palestine.

Another demand was that RCC should disclose all institutional investments and funding and that the administration should become allies to the movement for Palestine.

They also wanted RCC to commit to protecting Palestinian, Arab, Muslim and other students and faculty whose voices are being suppressed.

“We wanted this to be a wakeup call to the school and a call to accept our demands for divestment of funds,” Marcy said.

“I mean, we are a Pepsi campus and Pepsi is complicit in genocide.”

There were also a few faculty members supporting the cause as well.

“We’re here as observers in the gathering that the community is supporting,” Riverside City College President Claire Oliveros said. “I would be happy to meet with organizers to learn more about what the demands are.”

One other demand was that RCC should call for a ceasefire and express solidarity with students protesting the genocide

Pro-Palestine protestor gives speech at RCC Quad rally May 7.

NIGEL LOPEZ | VIEWPOINTS

around the globe, including UCR and Cal Poly Humboldt.

Also in attendance were several members of RCC’s Board of Trustees including Bill Hedrick.

“I think it’s important that students have an opportunity to peacefully explain their opinions,” Hedrick said. “I think overall it is a positive thing and frankly, I am pleased to see a level of student NIGEL LOPEZ | VIEWPOINTS activism that has not existed in the U.S for many years.”

Pro-Palestine speaker gives speech in front of RCC Digital Library May 7.

May 23, 2024

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NIGEL LOPEZ | VIEWPOINTS Devonte Kilgore, Classmate and close friend to Carlos Daniel Pedroza Villalobos, gives a speech about his relationship at the Riverside City College Arthur G. Paul Quadrangle on May 9.

(Left to right) Amanda Villalobos Pedroza (Sister), Leandra Cruz (Grandmother) and Amelia Villalobos Pedroza (Mother) receive consolation and hugs by RCC students, faculty, and visitors at the vigil held at RCC quad May 9.

College memorializes student at vigil MEMORIAL from page 1 Associate instructor of Sociology Timothy Gutierrez also spoke at the podium to speak about his experience with Pedroza Villalobos.

“I’m very grateful to have known Danny this semester,” Gutierrez said. “Supported the classmates … talented in their work. Lots of personality in their writing. Lots of individualism.”

“I wish I could have known Danny more. Especially with everything that I’ve learned about Danny these past three weeks and two days,” Gutierrez said.

President of Riverside City College, Claire Oliveros was in attendance and gave a speech

honoring Pedroza Villalobos. A transcriber accompanied Oliveros to speak directly to Pedroza Villalobos’ family.

“I’d like to also express our deepest condolences as well as our gratitude for sharing Danny,” Oliveros said.

“I’m also deeply sad and (were) grieving together. So here we are in a public display together of grief and sadness which is also a gift, a gift of connection to honor Danny’s life,” Oliveros said.

Along with expressing her condolences, Oliveros also shared what RCC would be doing to honor Pedroza Villalobos moving forward.

“On behalf of the college I want to share ways in which we

hope to contribute and honor and “We do understand that he is papers on the courtyard ground for celebrate Danny’s life. In honor no longer here, but we do have a students to write notes and express of his life, we want to explore lot of love for him,” Juarez said. their condolences to Pedroza the possibilities of planting a tree ASRCC also provided large Villalobos. in his honor as well as launching a scholarship that supports the educational goals of Danny along with supporting efforts for transferring and honoring Danny with a degree at commencement for his academic efforts,” Oliveros said.

Juarez also called for a moment of silence and mentioned that Pedroza Villalobos was a fan of music movie soundtracks. In Pedroza Villalobos’ honor, they played one of Pedroza Villalobos’ favorite songs called “Sweet NIGEL LOPEZ | VIEWPOINTS Dreams” by Kensuke Ushio from RCC students write words of solidarity, comfort, and hope on a sign the “Chainsaw Man” soundtrack. at the RCC quad May 9.

Viewpoints editor-in-chief bids farewell LACEY JAMES EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

My time as Editor-in-Chief of Viewpoints has been an amazing experience.

I have learned so much in the past five months.

As a journalism major, I knew this would be a great opportunity to show my well-rounded skill set.

I also saw it as a chance to challenge myself since I already have such a heavy load with school coursework and another job.

I got to work with an amazing team of photographers, editors, and staff reporters.

I had to learn fast as we started quickly but I was able to get the hang of the responsibilities very quickly.

I also attended the JACC and ACP conference in March in La Jolla, California where our team won second place in the on-thespot social media contest.

I had a great deal of help from my team and managing editor.

I was responsible for delegating assignments, editing, helping students and laying out the newspaper on Adobe InDesign.

I also was able to learn so much about news writing and what makes for a great photograph.

I spent more time on campus as I was often in the Viewpoints newsroom.

I got a chance to learn about the different student personalities that make up the Viewpoints staff.

I am thankful that I got a chance to put together three print

issues this semester as well as digital articles on our Viewpoints website.

As we close out the semester, I look back at this incredible experience that Viewpoints has given me.

I will attend graduation and receive my journalism degree and I am excited for all the opportunities that will come from gaining this unique experience.

CRIME REPORT

The report accounts for i s s u e d a n d c o m p l e t e d Tuesday, April 30 Riverside City College i n t h e R C C M a t h a n d Petty theft was reported a t M o r e n o Va l l e y District related crime. Science Building.

College after occuring on April 25.

Monday, April 15 Tuesday, April 23 An arrest warrant was Vandalism was reported Trespassing was reported issued and completed in in the RCCD. in the RCC Math and the RCC Cosmetology Science Building.

Department.

Wednesday, April 24 A traffic collision Wednesday, April 17 occurred on 14th Street Thursday, May 2 An arrest warrant was and Olivewood Avenue T r e s p a s s i n g w a s reported in the RCC i s s u e d a n d c o m p l e t e d in Riverside.

Kane Building. in the Riverside City College District Office. Thursday, April 25 A t r a f f i c c o l l i s i o n Battery was reported on Thursday, April 18 occurred in parking lot Unive r sity Ave nue a nd Market Street.

An arrest warrant was D at Norco College.

If you or another feel your safety is at risk, please contact the RCCD Police Department at 951222-8171 for nonTuesday, May 7 Public disturbance on emergency calls, and s c h o o l g r o u n d s w a s i n c a s e o f e m e r g e n c y, r e p o r t e d a t M o r e n o call 9-1-1.

Valley College.

If a crime is witnessed and you wish to report Wednesday, May 8 C r i m i n a l t h r e a t s w e r e it , ple a s e c a ll t he o nr e p o r t e d a t M o r e n o campus police at 951222-8171 or in case Valley College.

Grand theft was reported o f a n e m e r g e n c y c a l l in parking lot E at RCC. 9-1-1.

Saturday, May 4 Trespassing was reported in the RCC Arthur G. Paul Quadrangle.

Viewpoints@rcc.edu

NEWS

May 23, 2024

5

UCR complies with most of protestors’ demands

NIGEL LOPEZ | VIEWPOINTS

A group of students taking a break from protesting and chanting at the UCR encampment on May 1.

NIGEL LOPEZ STAFF REPORTER

University of California Riverside met Students for Justice in Palestine’s demands Friday without any violence, arrests, suspensions or incidents.

In exchange for the dissolution of the Gaza solidarity encampment at UCR, Kim A. Wilcox, UCR chancellor, was willing to meet SJP’s demands in a signed agreement after eight hours of negotiation. UCR will disclose their investments on their website, end study discriminatory abroad programs and change their approval process to prevent them from starting up again.

At the end of the spring quarter UCR will create a student-led task force appointed by the Associated Students of UCR who will investigate the ethical concerns of UCR’s investments and present the report to UCR Foundation Board of Trustees by the winter quarter with the goal of divestment.

The Gaza solidarity encampment at UCR started

on April 29 after other Gaza solidarity encampments opened up in universities around the world. Encampments demanded universities to disclose of investments and divestment from companies that support Israel in its siege on Gaza.

S J P U C R ’s e n c a m p m e n t had negotiators, media liaisons, volunteers and a mutual aid fund.

According to the media liaison, who declined to be identified, SJPUCR demanded disclosure about investments, an end of study abroad programs to Israel, acknowledgment of the genocide in Gaza, and support for student’s pain. This also included a push for divestment, an end in UC complicity in genocide and support for a ceasefire.

“A lot of members of SJP have family members in Gaza,” said a media liaison for SJPUCR. “I am a refugee as well. I’ve seen the terror happening in my country. Coming here to the United States, we’re calling for an end to colonialism. The president of SJPUCR was talking about how

her cousin wasn’t able to graduate college because she was killed.

That is the reality for so many people.”

The encampment was full of UCR students, their children and their families who were running around playing with one another.

The encampment would host teach-ins and special speakers such as older members of SJP with more than 20 years of experience advocating for Palestine were also supporting the encampment.

“The occupation has been going on for 75 years. This is not something new,” said an older protester, who declined to be identified.

“The most beautiful thing now is that we’re more united. We have more people who understand because nobody was able to see the genocide live. I don’t even have to share the story anymore because people are seeing the story. What I’m seeing is that the tides are turning and we have a lot more people on the right side of history.”

Students from the encampment also walked around UCR to protest

and when they returned the whole encampment would start to chant and sing together. Encampment protestors also would let their children chant on the megaphones and the crowd would encourage them.

Multiple political groups around the Inland Empire were involved in the encampment.

Students for Justice in Palestine UCR, Inland Empire Against Empire, and Inland Empire DSA were groups who were involved.

Full-time student protestors were also volunteers keeping inventory of food, water, medical supplies and expenditures. The protesters and encampment leadership also volunteered with manual labor setting up tents and tables. There were halal and vegan options in food choices as well.

“I feel good, a good vibe, everybody is getting along,” one protester’s father said. “It’s nice and quiet and not crazy. No violence. It’s the way it’s supposed to be, people enjoying each other’s company.”

The man also commented that

he felt that mainstream media was against the protestors.

“We accept everybody, every color no matter what race you are.

We accept you,” he said.

People were gathered around in groups of friends and family laughing and smiling. There was group prayer five times a day. There was chalk art drawn all around the encampment near the UCR bell tower and the library. There were also protest signs hanging off the bell tower, trees and tents. The UCR letters were also plastered with stickers showing support with the people in Palestine.

Every morning around 6 a.m.

UCR staff would hose down chalk art in and around the encampment, take protest signs down and confiscate chalk.

Encampment leadership confronted a person flying a drone over the encampment at night. The drone flier apologized and left with no incident.

There was no violence or hostility for the entirety of the fiveday encampment as discussions remained peacful and productive.

NIGEL LOPEZ | VIEWPOINTS SJP leadership announcing the result of negotiations with UCR Chancellor Kim A. Wilcox and Vice Chancellor Elizabeth Watkins on May 3.

6 May 23, 2024

Different grind, differe

How Tigers pitcher Alex Navarrete’s brand helped him regain his love and pas ERIC PACHECO MANAGING EDITOR

It’s a warm summer day in the Dirty Riv at the Riverside City College Evans Sports Complex, and Alex Navarette digs his cleats into the mound rubber as he prepares to throw his first bullpen in a year and a half. He winds and fires his patented fastball, his arm coming through in a low three-quarter slot and pounds the catcher’s mitt. The sound of leather meeting leather creates a loud popping sound. Despite the fears and doubts Navarette had battled in his head, there’s no pain, each throw coming out smoothly as he gains confidence with each impending fire. The dream of playing Division I baseball for him was now more alive than ever.

“That’s when I knew Nav was back,” he said.

Navarette underwent Tommy John reconstruction surgery to repair a torn Ulnar Collateral ligament in his right pitching elbow in January 2022. This injury can be seen as a death sentence for many baseball players, especially those like Navarette who are just beginning their journey at the next level as he was in the fall of 2021 at Long Beach State University — the school he committed to when he was a sophomore in high school.

The recovery from Tommy John usually takes 12-18 months, the latter of which is how long it took in Navarette’s recovery. The rigorous process, which includes completely rebuilding the range and motion in that patient’s arm, can take a toll on the patient’s physical and mental health. Which was another challenge Nav had to endure in his recovery process.

“I felt like everything I had worked for was gone,” Navarette said. “I was really depressed, and it felt like I lost it all.”

Alex was in a hole and at a crossroads in his life with his future in baseball hanging in limbo, he turned to something he always knew: hustling.

“In high school, I was always trying to make a little bit of money in my own way,” he said.

While he was at Colton High School, he began training other players and sold shirts to help promote his small business.

“Even if I wasn’t making a good profit, I was always proud to see someone wearing my shirts,” he said.

“

With a lot more time on his hands, as he recovered from surgery, Nav decided to start his brand dubbed “The Missile Brand” after his signature fastball. It began with designing shirts and shorts with his logo, but when the brand really began to take off is when he started making arm sleeves for baseball.

“I think passionate is how I would describe Alex,” Alex’s older brother Rene Navarette said. If he has a vision, he will work daily to accomplish it. There is nobody I personally know that works harder than Alex.”

While going through training therapy one day in the early summer of 2023 at the Empire baseball club facility in Riverside, Alex reconnected with a former coach of his, Chris Rabago, who had played in the Colorado Rockies organization. While discussing his rehab from surgery, Nav informed Rabago of his brand, which prompted Rabago to ask him what his goals were for that year.

“I just want a pro to rock my stuff,” Nav said. “I know I’m asking a lot, but I think I could make it happen.”

Rabago would put Alex in contact with his best friend Alan Trejo of the Colorado Rockies, an infielder of Mexican descent.

Nav composed a package from Trejo and sent it out, not knowing if he would really wear it or even notice him.

That next weekend while Alex was working his phone began to blow up with text notifications which he ignored until he had gotten home to see that Trejo did indeed wear his arm sleeve in his game that day.

“Seeing that felt the best, this brand means so much to me because of everything that I have gone through in the past two years,” Nav said.

From that moment he began to truly love his brand which he described as a “painkiller” while going through his recovery. He began to see that the vision was there and created a list of players he wanted next and atop that list was a relief pitcher for the Boston Red Sox Brennan Bernardino, a California native and another player of Mexican descent.

Navartte, who is of Mexican descent, touched on how much

it meant to him to have the first players to wear his brand be Mexican.

“Seeing them wear my sleeves in a game meant the world to me because they didn’t forget where they came from,” he said. “I look up to those guys because we don’t really see that many Mexican players in the big leagues.”

From then on the ball was rolling for The Missile Brand with players such as Alex Verdugo, world series champion Eddie Rosario, Mickey Moniak, MJ Melendez, and Isaac Parades –who Nav noted is one of the biggest supporters of his brand– amongst many more wearing his arm sleeves in games. The sleeves were largely displayed by his fellow teammates during RCC games this past season.

“It was not only awesome to see so many players wear the Missile Brand gear in the baseball community but (on) our team,” Tigers associate Head Coach Dave Martinez said. “It was easy for them to support Alex when he does everything right and has a work ethic second to none.”

The success of the brand

helped show Alex that there are different paths in baseball beyond just playing but his dream of playing Division I baseball was still there. After spending a year and a half away from baseball Nav came to RCC with a goal to simply pitch on the mound again in hopes of garnering attention from top universities once again.

“Being from the I.E. (Inland Empire), RCC has always been the best Juco,” he said. “I don’t care what anyone says; the best players go to RCC.” That attention came in the fall of 2023 during a sophomore showcase in front of many Division I scouts. After completing an emotion-filled first competitive outing on the mound in nearly two years, Martinez notified Nav that the University of Las Vegas was interested in him. A week later, after a phone call and campus visit, Nav decided to commit to UNLV. “I knew I had the talent, but everything that I had gone through was affecting my

mentality,” he said. “I enjoyed everything about UNLV. I knew it was for me, they offered me and I took it.”

After a 2024 season with the Tigers that included some ups and downs Nav now feels he is in a better place physically and mentally to handle any adversity thrown his way. He hopes to carry that mindset into his play at UNLV this fall.

“The biggest growth I saw in Alex was his ability to handle adversity,” Martinez said. “He never wavered in his preparation and stayed the course.”

He plans to continue The Missile Brand as he departs RCC to his next step in Las Vegas and hopes to inspire those who wear the brand to continue their grind and to wear his gear with pride.

“My goal is to make the pros and when it comes to my brand I want it to be the next Nike,” he said.

“If one day I go to Dick’s Sporting Goods and I see my brand in there, I know I made it,” Navarrete said.

Alex Navarrete works out while wearing The Missile Brand shorts and shirt.

If one day I go to Dick’s Sporting Goods and I see my brand in there, I know I made it.

- Alex Navarrete

Managing Editor: Eric Pacheco Viewpoints@rcc.edu

7

ent hustle: The Missile

ssion for baseball and how that brand has grown into what it’s become today

From left to right, MJ Melendez (Royals) and Isaac Parades (Rays) wear The Missile Brand arm sleeves during their games.

Photos Courtesy of The Missile Brand

Eric Pacheco | Viewpoints Riverside City College pitcher, Alex Navarrete, 27, celebrates after recording a strikeout during the 3C2A Regionals at Panther Field on May 3.

8 May 23 2024

OPINIONS

Editor: Laura Bautista

Viewpoints@rcc.edu

Whistleblowers call out Boeing Aircrafts

PHOTO VIA EMANUVIEWS ON UNSPLASH

LAURA BAUTISTA OPINIONS EDITOR

Summer is near and many students are planning their summer trips to visit loved ones or travel to new places. One of the most common modes of travel is by airplane, but now traveling by plane

can be a gamble depending on the type of plane being flown.

Boeing has been making headlines the last few months due to its poorly manufactured aircrafts that have killed or endangered the lives of those traveling. The most infamous incident happened back in January with a door plug blowing out of an Alaska Airlines jet.

According to an NBC News article “Boeing whistleblower says the Dreamliner 787 could ‘break apart’ because of safety flaws, report says” by Patrick Smith. One whistleblower explains that changes to the construction process had included a lot of shortcuts and that aircrafts were “fastened together.” They also

warned that the aircraft could fall apart after many flights due to its quick manufacturing process.

Since then The Federal Aviation Administration has grounded most Boeing aircrafts after their investigation. However, it doesn’t stop all Boeing aircrafts from being used. This past month there have been four separate Boeing malfunction incidents. With many incidents happening this past year, why are Boeing manufacturer aircrafts being able to be flown?

When going into the FAA’s website to look at the updates on the Boeing 737-9 Max aircraft, the latest update was back in March of 2024 where the FAA claimed that they have halted production expansion of the Boeing 737 Max.

However the FAA never grounded all of the Boeing 737 aircrafts. The latest Boeing incident occurred earlier this month where a Boeing 737 caught on fire in Senegal, injuring 10 people.

According to The Times article by Qin Xie and Cathy Adams “Boeing 737 Max: Which airlines use the planes and how dangerous are they?”Airlines that use the Boeing 737 Max 9 planes are United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Copa Airlines, Aeromexico, Turkish Airlines, SCAT, Icelandair, Lion Air and Flydubai. Boeing has already claimed the lives of multiple people in 2018. As someone who is nervous when traveling by plane, it would be a traumatic

experience for someone to go through.

The death of the two whistleblowers can prevent many employees to speak out against the Boeing industry. The constant news coverage of Boeing incidents are a contributing factor to the fear of flying on these planes.

This is a problem that needs to be fixed as many people are getting ready for their summer travel plans and will probably be boarding a Boeing manufacturer aircraft.

In the meantime, there are websites to check which airplanes are manufactured by Boeing including most of the big airline’s sites that you can view when booking your next flight.

Met Gala stands for ‘met’erialism

NATALIE STRAIN NEWS EDITOR

Mondays, the first day of the week that most people dread.

But celebrities aren’t most people. To celebrities all around the world, Mondays are praised.

Especially the first Monday of May when hundreds of famous figures attend the annual Met Gala.

The event takes place in New York City at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and lasts all night, but for those involved preparation can take months, even years.

The Met Gala is historic. It reimagines the fashion industry, celebrating modern designers with modern designs. Some say it’s a celebration of art. Others say it’s a celebration of wealth.

While I have been one of the many that have tuned into this

event seeing how Blake Lively will match the red carpet this year or how Zendaya will get the theme spot on yet again, I have found myself taking a step back from the glamor.

When I see the price behind the event, the amount of time and effort put into attending such a glamorous show, I question how much of our time we are spending on materialism?

According to Parade, those who wish to attend must either be invited by Vogue Editor-in-Chief Anna Wintour or pay $75,000 for a ticket, not to mention the $350,000 they pay for seating.

The reality is that the Met Gala is just another social event for these celebrities.

An event where they can flaunt their wealth to distract from the true reality of real people with real lives.

The price tag attached to the Gala means nothing to those with the most fame and fortune.

However, to individuals like me, I cannot even fathom having $425,000 on standby.

How are we giving all of our attention to the people who simply do not understand our reality? How are we going to distract ourselves from what is really happening in

the world?

While celebrities prance around in their gowns and suits only to be worn one time and sit on display collecting dust, millions are starving.

Millions are dying. Millions would do anything to have a single dollar in their pocket. Yet we continue to focus on the people that have everything and can do anything.

While I understand the value of the Met Gala and its historic significance in the fashion and costume industry, it is simply too

PHOTO BY DIANE PICCHIOTTINO ON UNSPLASH

much.

The Met Gala is considered a charity event. According to The New York Times, the event donates over $26 million to the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute. It recognizes the works of artists and their craft, and admittedly I do admire and appreciate their work.

Are we more focused on the art itself or the face wearing the dress?

The artist evidently goes unnoticed, discrediting the actual meaning behind the event.

In today’s day-and-age, society

has proven to prioritize glitz and glamor when only a select few can even obtain it. In settings where we are expected to appreciate the artistry behind the work, we focus on what is on the surface level.

The meaning of the Met Gala has been diminished and has ultimately distracted society from the issues and morals of what really matters.

We need to stop idealizing people that are spoon fed wealth and fortune and start idealizing a world that recognizes a balance between art and humanity.

May 23, 2024

Editor: Laura Bautista| Viewpoints@rcc.edu

Editorial

9

STAFF LIST EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lacey James viewpointseic@gmail.com

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

MANAGING EDITOR Eric Pacheco Viewpoints@rcc.edu NEWS EDITORS Natalie Strain Viewpoints@rcc.edu ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR Annabel Silva Viewpoints@rcc.edu ASSISTANT OPINIONS EDITOR Laura Bautista Viewpoints@rcc.edu

A student in distress sitting near the Riverside City College Digital Library.

KEITH FERNANDEZ | VIEWPOINTS

Depression and mental health struggles amongst students are becoming more prominent on college campuses according to the American Psychological Association.

Many students, even those who excel academically, struggle internally with their mental health and this problem has led to some students taking their life.

The urgency of this issue hits home.

The past five years, two Riverside City College students took their own lives, with one tragic incident occurring just this past month.

These losses are painful reminders of how serious the mental health crisis among college students is.

We stress that sufficient understanding and support for mental health should be a priority within our RCC community following these tragic events.

According to College Student Mental Health Statistics, “Just 40% of students think their school is doing enough to support student mental health.”

A solution that could help would be strengthening the mental health facilities provided on college campuses, since it is apparent that they may not doing enough.

RCC received a $306k grant for a mental health in 2023, which is a positive step. Our counseling centers may seem genuine because they offer free therapy to

health.

By increasing the funding, college mental health facilities will be provided with more licensed counselors, therapists, and psychiatrists as well as higher quality resources for student’s needs.

In addition, if colleges increased the amount of online services and peer support programs students would be more willing to seek help.

Online services provide convenience and flexibility, allowing students to access support at any time and from anywhere.

Peer support groups help students build relationships with others and realize that they are not alone. Students themsleves can take initiative by joining clubs and finding community.

Furthermore, to truly destigmatize mental health on college campuses we must prioritize educating students and create safe spaces to talk about this issue.

This includes implementing mental health literacy programs that are comprehensive and creating supportive environments for students where they are comfortable sharing their experiences, challenges and misconceptions about mental illness.

By addressing this problem and improving students’ access to care, we can create an environment where seeking help for mental health concerns is not only accepted but encouraged.

students, and provide resources and a sense of comfort.

But the reality is that due to the lack of funding for mental health services in universities, most students who receive mental health services from their school aren’t satisfied with them according to Cal Budget and Policy Center.

“This disinvestment in crucial services results in understaffed counseling offices, long wait times and inadequate facilities — all of which negatively affect students seeking help,” Cal Budget and Policy Center stated.

It’s crucial that we take realistic steps to address this issue and acknowledge the severity of it.

According to the Health Minds Study, “During the 2020–2021 school year, more than 60% of college students met the criteria for at least one mental health problem.”

First, it is important to increase the funding for mental health services. We can do this by creating awareness for the cause. Creating awareness is crucial in helping to understand why it is important to increase the funding for mental health facilities and how best it can be done.

This would mean educating students through campaigns, lobbying or just raising group consciousness about the essence of maintaining good mental

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

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SPORTS

11 May 23, 2024 Baseball team looks to future after playoff exit Editor: Jesus Coronel | Viewpoints@rcc.edu

ERIC PACHECO MANAGING EDITOR

Riverside City College baseball looks to future after ending underdog playoff run The Tigers’ underdog run for their sixth state title ended when they were swept May 9 at Cerritos College’s Falcon Field.

The Riverside City College baseball team entered the Super Regionals as the 13 seed, the lowest remaining seed left in the California Community College Athletic Association playoffs.

They lost game one to 8-seeded Long Beach City College 9-2, then they blew a 9th inning 2-0 lead to top-seeded Cerritos College Falcons before losing 4-3 in 11 innings in game two.

RCC’s defense, which had been an overlying problem for the team all season, struggled in game one, allowing four unearned runs.

“We squandered opportunities offensively and weren’t able to make plays when we needed to to keep us in contention,” Tigers head coach Rudy Arguelles said about the 9-2 loss to Long Beach.

Arguelles was pleased with how his ballclub bounced back in a close competitive matchup in game two. Ultimately, they would be unable to close out a 2-0 lead in the 9th inning and a 3-2 lead in the 10th.

“It was really unfortunate to

Photos courtesy of Samantha Wellman | RCC athletics sports information director Riverside City College shortstop Eddie Alfaro, 7, swings away at Falcons Field on May 9.

not be able to close that game out and get us to the second day where anything can happen,” Argulles said about the loss to Cerritos.

In the end, Arguelles was proud of his team, which entered

Riverside City College pitcher Ryan Jenkins, 20, delivers a pitch at Falcons Field on May 9.

the season without the high expectations from outsiders that RCC is used to seeing. A big reason for this was the youth of the team, with all but one main starter on defense being a freshman. Arguelles also noted this was the youngest team the Tigers have had in over a decade.

The coaching staff now looks to take the lessons learned from this season — in which they finished 27-17 — and hopes to instill them into the young group as they prepare for the offseason.

“This program has always been about growth and development,” Arguelles said.

“We have to continue working in those areas, whether enhancing game aptitude and awareness, relishing the moment, and approaching each day with an absolute purpose.”

Some of the key returning players will be all-Orange Empire Conference first-team

pitcher Ryan Jenkins, along with second-team all-conference outfielders Alex Gamez and Dylan Nelson. Also amongst that group are top-of-the-lineup staples in shortstop Eddie Alfaro and center fielder Parker Sobiesiak.

Most of the departing Tigers come from the pitching staff, with starters Julian Cazares, Alex Navarrete and Dylan Plutner moving on this fall. Along with those arms departing will be highleverage relievers Matt Hudson

and Dakota Gray.

“Hopefully, they can take the lessons that they’ve learned here and the foundational pillars that have been instilled in them,” Arguelles said. “The expectancy as they move is to continue to be no maintenance guys and absolute contributors to the new programs that they’re going to be a part of.”

For the returning players, Arguelles challenges them

for growth and a sense of realization that one of their four years of eligibility has already gone by not only as a player but as a student and a person. He also expressed his excitement going into the summer and into the fall.

“Hopefully, it gives them a sense of urgency to continue to put the work in over the summer with the absolute purpose to be ready to attack a new season,” Arguelles said.

Arguelles closed with a message that some might say is a warning for what the Tigers have in store for the 2025 season.

“There’s always going to be expectations here no matter what,” he said. We will retool we always have and we accept that challenge and we’re excited about it. It’s what we’re built on here.”

Sports Briefs Track and Field RCC finished second in the 3C2A State Championship in the men’s team competition with 114 points, as Ernesto Ruiz won the 3K steeplechase with a time of 9:05.40, and Edward Ta’amilo took first place in both the shot put and discus events.

The women’s team finished

4th with 57 points, with Brianna Miller, Jolene Ruth Lavaki, Aiyana Jefferson and Cierra Ellis winning the 4x400 relay event with a time of 3:51.81.

Ruiz was named Orange Empire Conference athlete of the week for May 13 - 19. He was named the Male Track Athlete of the Meet at the state championships.

Men’s Golf Sophomore Ronny Zheng finished sixth in the 3C2A State Championship at Sandpiper Golf Club, going 4-over-par in two rounds, while sophomore Vincent Chen finished tied for 45th, going 16-over-par. Zheng’s performance earned him All-State honors.

Swimming

Nahali and Zekiah Serrano each getting one in the 100yard freestyle, finishing third and sixth respectively.

Want to keep up to date w i t h t h e l a t e s t i n Ti g e r athletics?

Freshman Annabella Storar was the only medalist in the women’s 3C2A Championship at Orange Coast College, finishing sixth in the 1,650y a r d f r e e s t y l e . T h e m e n ’s medalists are Gerardo Garcia, Follow RCC Athletics on finishing 8th in the 200-yard social media: butterfly event, and Yousef Instagram: @rcc_athletics

Tigers next steps 2024 baseball players college commitments Richie Tejeda - University of Southern California

Julian Cazares - University of California San Diego

Alex Navarrete - University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Dakota Gray - Utah Tech University

Matt Hudson - University of California Riverside

Jordan Townley - California State University San Marcos

12 May 23, 2024 Stem Connect-ions hosts NASA speaker

Viewpoints@rcc.edu

JENNIFER CARDONA-LEON| VIEWPOINTS Riverside City College features Jose M. Hernandez who inspired the film A Million Miles Away at the STEM Connect-ions Expo.

don’t have,’” His wife said.

Hernandez looked at the other applicants to see what he “Sabe sonar en grande. You needed to become applicable can dream big as long as you and found out that they were are willing to work hard to all pilots and scuba divers. He convert that dream into reality,” went and became a pilot and said keynote speaker Jose M. scuba diver all to meet those Hernandez, an astronaut at requirements. He took a five NASA, who spoke as a part of year project to travel to Russia the STEM Connection High five to six times a year, three to School Expo that took place four weeks at a time to travel at Riverside City College on to sunny Siberia, a project that Hernandez stated, “that no one May 9.

Hernandez was speaking wanted.”

After that project, he sent to the high school and college out his twelfth application students alongside faculty and was accepted. Hernandez members about his life story was introduced into the 19th of growing up as a migrant class of astronauts.

At the age farm worker to becoming an of 47 he achieved his dream astronaut at NASA. and he went up into space.

At the age of ten years The mission he was assigned old, Hernandez decided on becoming an astronaut on the was the second to last mission day the last Apollo mission to finish construction of the happened in 1972. He watched International Space Station Eugene Cernan be the last man with seven tons of equipment to walk on the moon. “That’s to deliver. “Whenever you pick where I’m from,” Hernandez a goal, make sure you enjoy the said. “I want to be like that guy. journey because that’s about 80- 90 percent of your time and I want to be an astronaut.”

After telling his father effort,” Hernandez said.

The STEM Connection Expo of his dream, his father gave was designed for high school him advice on how to reach students who are interested in that goal. “‘Define your goal.

STEM. Luis Molina, who is in Recognize how far you are charge of the STEM grants said, from it. Create a road map to get “The college has two big federal there.’” Hernandez’s father said. grants in the STEM division “‘Education is key, develop that I helped manage with Dr. a strong ethic, and persevere.

Virginia White.”

Never give up,’” Hernandez’s “One is with the National father said.

Science Foundation and the Hernandez applied and was other is through the Department rejected 11 times by NASA. of Education.

So having those He was on the verge of giving two federally funded grants up after the six rejections until really help us to be able to have his wife encouraged him to funding to do these types of continue applying. “‘I don’t events,” Molina said. know what they have that you LAURA BAUTISTA ASST. OPINIONS EDITOR

Molina mentions that through these grants there are a lot of things they want and have to do for underrepresented students in STEM. The departments are: Financial Aid, Student Services and clubs who help out with introducing the high school students to the services at RCC.

There were eight high schools who participated including high schools from Riverside Unified School District and Jurupa Unified School District. “RCC is a city college,” Molina stated.

“We welcome everyone.”

“I have been teaching for almost 20 years teaching at RCC and I don’t remember us in

STEM in any way doing direct outreach to recruit students here,” said Virginia White, a Professor for the Biology Department at RCC. “We wanted to do an outreach event to get faculty to be able to talk to students where we have all these different resources that the college offers,” White said.

JENNIFER CARDONA-LEON | VIEWPOINTS Jose M. Hernandez displays powerpoint at STEM Connect-ions Expo.