Volume 74, Issue 30

The Highlander

Apartment fire on University ave displaces over 150 residents

ANGELICA

ACOSTA,

KASSANDRA AGGUIRE Editor-in-Chief, News Editor

Disclaimer: Investigation into the fire at the University Riverside Gardens apartment complex is ongoing. This article includes information available up until May 31.

At approximately 11:13 a.m. on May 29, the local apartment complex University Riverside Gardens (URG) — 3996 Iowa Ave — caught fire. The Riverside Fire Department (RFD) was able to contain it by around 5:30 p.m., after around six hours of activity, resulting in the incineration of 50 units and the displacement of 150 residents. Some of the affected were students of the University of California, Riverside (UCR). As investigation into the incident continues, UCR and city organizations are working to support the affected community.

UCR student and resident Isabel Anglestead described that she had been in a discussion class when the fire broke out, stating, “I started to get texts from my friends. Then immediately after, I got a text telling me that my apartment was on fire. I had to run out of my discussion.” Others reported that prior to the arrival of firefighters, evacuation was a communal effort as residents ran through the halls screaming ‘fire’ and banging on doors.

“I was still in my room and everyone was just knocking, [saying] ‘get [out] there’s a fire,’ and everyone was trying to get everyone out,” described another UCR student and resident John Nieves.

Welcome to Normchella: A breath of fresh air

JOSÉ DEL ÁNGEL

Contributing Writer

On May 26, 2026, the Residence Halls Association (RHA), in partnership with the Campus Apartments Resident Association (CARA), hosted Normchella.This creative re-creation of Coachella was hosted at Pentland Greeneries and was a breath of fresh air compared to the repetitiveness of the belltower’s annual events. Normchella invited the talents around the University of California, Riverside (UCR) to participate and perform in front of the student body.

Students packed the Pentland Hills residential complex which was transformed into a festivalstyle space filled with games, vendors, performances and food ahead of finals season.

ASUCR Senate meeting

The 2025-2026 Senate holds their last meeting.

On May 27, the Associated Students of California, Riverside (ASUCR) commenced their final Senate meeting of the academic year. It began at 6:44 p.m. following an informal review of the agenda items and adjourned at 8:26 p.m.

The meeting began with State of the Association reports from the Office of the Executive Vice President, the Office of the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the Vice President of Finance and the Vice President of Sustainability.

In committee reports, the legislative review committee examined four resolutions and 20 bills — the most set to pass in a single senate meeting this academic year.

The resolutions included SR-S26-007 or “ASUCR’s Stance on Solidarity with Black Students Across the UC System,” SR-S26-008 or “ASUCR’s Commitment to First Generation Student Success” and SR-S26-009 or “Resolution in Support of CA SB 886 and 887,” and called on the Senate to support students with regard to a range of social issues including continued discrimination against black and first generation students as well as the increasing construction of data centers across California.

SR-S26-010 or “Resolution Announcing R’Bus” officially launched the Green Campus Action Plan’s (GCAP) R’Bus service which will provide transportation for disabled students around campus with Global Electric Motorcars and begin operation in coming academic years.

Senate Bills 9 and 14-30 made various amendments to the school’s constitution and bylaws to consolidate functions for efficiency.

This series of amendments removed the offices of the Non-Traditional Student Director, the International Student Director, the First-Time College Student Director and the Transfer Student Director and relocated their respective positions to other offices.

Along with this, the Black Student Affairs Team Chapter, the Student Voice Committee Chapter, the Summer Powers

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“My mom really wanted me to learn Japanese since I was young, and I really hated it and I didn’t like it. I was gonna speak English my whole life. But during COVID, I was lonely and there was nothing to do. I was just sitting in a room when I discovered that learning a different language was kind of fun, and learning new cultures, reading books that I’ve never seen before and taking in different perspectives was cool, and I just dove head first into learning Japanese.”

“Next year I’m going to study abroad in Japan, so I’m probably going to start getting ready for that, and it’s going to be hard. I’m going there for a whole year, and that’s why I want to get everything I need in the U.S. done during the summer before I go off.”

“I try to do things that would help me improve my language learning skills. So I like to watch videos on Youtube, but not in English. In Japanese.”

“I also like looking at horse racing. Japan is really big into horse racing, and even in the US, you have a lot of words that come from horse racing. Words from [the sport] actually come over to the actual language and are used to explain other word meanings.”

2 Tuesday

3 Wednesday

4 Thursday

5 Friday

6 Saturday

7 Sunday

8 Monday

ASUCR Senate Meeting

THE 2025-2026 SENATE HOLDS THEIR LAST MEETING.

On May 27, the Associated Students of California, Riverside (ASUCR) commenced their final Senate meeting of the academic year. It began at 6:44 p.m. following an informal review of the agenda items and adjourned at 8:26 p.m.

The meeting began with State of the Association reports from the Office of the Executive Vice President, the Office of the Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, the Vice President of Finance and the Vice President of Sustainability.

In committee reports, the legislative review committee examined four resolutions and 20 bills — the most set to pass in a single senate meeting this academic year.

The resolutions included SR-S26007 or “ASUCR’s Stance on Solidarity with Black Students Across the UC System,” SR-S26-008 or “ASUCR’s Commitment to First Generation Student Success” and SR-S26-009 or “Resolution in Support of CA SB 886 and 887,” and called on the Senate to support students with regard to a range of social issues including continued discrimination against black and first generation students as well as the increasing construction of data centers across California.

SR-S26-010 or “Resolution Announcing R’Bus” officially launched the Green Campus Action Plan’s (GCAP) R’Bus service which will provide transportation for disabled students around campus with Global Electric Motorcars and begin operation in coming academic years.

Senate Bills 9 and 14-30 made

various amendments to the school’s constitution and bylaws to consolidate functions for efficiency.

This series of amendments removed the offices of the NonTraditional Student Director, the International Student Director, the First-Time College Student Director and the Transfer Student Director and relocated their respective positions to other offices.

Along with this, the Black Student Affairs Team Chapter, the Student Voice Committee Chapter, the Summer Powers of the Executive Branch Chapter and the Executive Cabinet Eligibility Act Chapter were

deleted and an Executive Cabinet Duties Chapter was created.

All resolutions and bills were passed uncontested by the senate.

GCAP then presented both GCAP Grant 026 or “End of the Year Donation Drive $500,” a request for funds to store discarded items from dorms and GCAP Grant 027 or “Reuseable @The Hub- $30,000,” to install infrastructure on campus to support the project. Both grants were approved 14-0-0.

The meeting concluded with a public comment from President Pro Tempore and Jeevan Rao. Rao personally

commended members of the senate and expanded on his approach to leadership during his time at UCR, inspired by his twin brother who had passed away.

“I knew I wanted to be a leader that helped people. I knew I wanted to be someone that would make a difference in people’s lives,” Rao shared, “and I think that’s what my brother would have said ... Everyone struggles sometimes and acknowledging that is really important for us as student leaders.”

ASUCR 2026 - 2027 special election results

KASSANDRA

On Wednesday, May 27, the Associated Students of California, Riverside (ASUCR) held their second round of special elections to fill the positions of the Vice President of Finance, Personnel Director, Nontraditional Student Director, First-time Student Director and President Pro Tempore.

The meeting was called to order at 8:37 p.m. and adjourned at 11:07 p.m.

Executive Cabinet Results:

Vice President of Finance: Rohan Vig

Personnel Director: Ann Nguyen

First-Time Student Director: Abhishek Muthu Kumar

Senate Election Results:

President Pro Tempore: Lauren Mendoza

Riverside downtown police station scheduled for demolition

THE STATION WILL BE REPLACED BY A NEW FACILITY SET TO COMPLETE IN 2028.

ANDREW HAGLER

Effective Friday, May 29, the Riverside Downtown Police Headquarters has closed and is designated for demolition ahead of a new station being built on the same site. Construction for the new station is slated to begin this July and will be completed around late 2028.

The change follows the city council’s unanimous approval of a memorandum on July 1, 2025 which was brought forward by the Riverside Police Department (RPD). While the new facility is constructed, the downtown station personnel will be relocated to the station on 10540 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, seven miles away from the current location. During this time, the RPD will operate solely out of the Magnolia Station and the Lincoln Station located on 8181 Lincoln Ave.

Located at 4102 Orange St., the new station will serve 320,000 city residents and accommodate more than 630 police department employees from divisions including the Office of the Chief of Police, Personnel and Training, Records Bureau, Internal Affairs and Community Services.

The RPD explained the need for the new station by citing that the old one, built in 1963, had various issues. These included outdated heating and cooling, rusty pipes running along electronic equipment and poorly laid out work areas. Some of the building’s infrastructure operated at distracting volumes, like the 1960s era main switch gear which produced decibel levels of 90-100, between that of a gas lawn mower and a motorcycle. The main generator, manufactured in the 1980s, required continual repair and produced substantial greenhouse gases and pollutants.

The police department has argued that, compared to renovating the existing structure, a new construction would improve layout and functionality, reduce maintenance costs and follow a shorter construction schedule. They’ve suggested the project would be energy efficient and focus its design to meet critical needs. While renovating would be cheaper with an upfront cost of 49-million, it would limit design flexibility and risk ignoring unforeseen conditions like asbestos or structural issues.

The city entered a $3.3 million contract with Holt Architects of Palm Desert to design the station, proposed as a three-level, 37,838-square-foot building. Holt Architects of Palm Desert is an architecture firm which has designed public service buildings for counties throughout the Inland Empire, including Indio and San Bernardino.

The project has been granted a budget of $62 million, increased from an original $59.5 million which was allotted. Much of the funding will be provided by Measure Z, an existing 1 cent sales tax on the ballot to be renewed and altered in November. If approved, the renewal would raise the tax to 1.25 cents, generating an estimated $21 million for public services such as firefighter and police services and repairing infrastructure like the police station.

Ward 1 council member Philip Falcone, who voted to approve the measure, cited that members of the city council including himself prefer to save and reuse old facilities, but it’s “just not feasible with this building.” Additionally, he noted that other city departments have received new headquarters in recent decades, but police facilities have been neglected.

Driver kills one, injures three

AFTER THOSE INVOLVED IN FIGHT LEFT, THE THIRD DROVE AFTER THEM, RUNNING INTO FOUR PEDESTRIANS

ANDREW HAGLER Assistant News Editor

On Sunday, May 24, a driver intentionally drove into a crowd of bystanders outside a Riverside house party on 3500 block of Franklin avenue, killing one and leaving three severely injured. The incident took place following an altercation between the driver and two other individuals.

At the party, three people got into an

argument which continued outside. After two of the individuals involved left the scene, they were then pursued by the third individual who got into their car and ran into four pedestrians, police stated.

Officers arrived on the scene around 12:39 a.m. after receiving numerous calls regarding the fight. One victim was pronounced dead

on the scene, and the other three were immediately taken to an intensive care unit. Police detained and interviewed several people and one was arrested on suspicion of murder. None of the people struck were involved in the fight and their relationship to those involved, if any, is unknown.

Apartment fire on University ave displaces over 150 residents

HOW THE CITY AND UCR HAVE BEGUN TO SUPPORT THOSE IMPACTED.

ANGELICA ACOSTA, KASSANDRA AGUIRRE Editor-in-Chief, News Editor

Disclaimer: Investigation into the fire at the University Riverside Gardens apartment complex is ongoing. This article includes information available up until May 31.

At approximately 11:13 a.m. on May 29, the local apartment complex University Riverside Gardens (URG) — 3996 Iowa Ave — caught fire. The Riverside Fire Department (RFD) was able to contain it by around 5:30 p.m., after around six hours of activity, resulting in the incineration of 50 units and the displacement of 150 residents. Some of the affected were students of the University of California, Riverside (UCR). As investigation into the incident continues, UCR and city organizations are working to support the affected community.

UCR student and resident Isabel Anglestead described that she had been in a discussion class when the fire broke out, stating, “I started to get texts from my friends. Then immediately after, I got a text telling me that my apartment was on fire. I had to run out of my discussion.” Others reported that prior to the arrival of firefighters, evacuation was a communal effort as residents ran through the halls screaming ‘fire’ and banging on doors.

“I was still in my room and everyone was just knocking, [saying] ‘get [out] there’s a fire,’ and everyone was trying to get everyone out,” described another UCR student and resident John Nieves.

The fire reportedly started by accident when a contractor was working on water pipes and “hot material” came in contact with insulation within the wall. This created flames which quickly spread into the complex’s attic and evolved into a three-alarm fire. The thick cloud of black smoke which developed over the complex rose high enough to be visible from UCR’s campus. By approximately 11:30 a.m., RFD began to arrive at the scene. Division Chief Greg White described that they combated the fire through the roof of the structure using brigade

cranes. Alongside this, other firefighters sprayed water onto the base of the complex from the ground. Police officers sought to aid residents with evacuation and provide them with other resources.

With the fire having decimated important aspects of the structure including its foundation and roofing, the complex is currently considered to be uninhabitable. It is unclear when residents of the 65 salvaged units will be able to re-enter.

“In coordination with the Riverside Police Department (RPD) and the Riverside Fire Department, we were able to safely evacuate all persons from the property,” White told The Highlander.

Although the incident resulted in zero reported injuries or casualties, one cat remains missing. Furthermore, the total cost in damages to the complex is currently unknown.

Soon after the incident began, URG management started to coordinate with the local organizations such as UCR basic needs, Red Cross and Riverside Housing Services to support those affected. Although URG management could not be reached for further comment regarding their efforts to support residents, actions such as the Bodwell Park Stratton Community Center opening as an emergency shelter for residents began soon after the fire broke out.

An email sent to UCR students from the Office of the Chancellor at 8:56 p.m. the day of the incident reported that approximately 55 students were directly affected. It read, “UCR is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our students. We are currently conducting outreach to affected students to ensure they have the support they need.”

The email also asserted that the university is currently “conducting outreach” to determine appropriate support for affected students. They are currently offering on-campus emergency housing and dining, off-campus housing options, basic needs, academic support and 24-hour

mental health and counseling services.

The Highlander was able to confirm through a Residential Assistant, who will be kept anonymous to protect their job security, that impacted students were moved into North District Two C units on March 31 and provided with temporary meal plans. It was unclear if they had to pay for the housing.

As part of this initiative, UCR Residential Education, Residential Housing Services and Basic Needs departments are collaborating to provide housing units. The specific number of units which are being made available and other services being offered have not been publicly disclosed.

On May 30, the Associated Students of UCR (ASUCR), UCR’s fashion club Vain, ASUCR External Affairs and UCR’s Green Campus Action Plan (GCAP) made a collaborative post on Instagram calling for the community to participate in a donation event they will host on June 3 at the Bell tower from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. to support those impacted by the fire. Acceptable donation items will include new or gently used clothing, dental care items, dry food, school bags, electronics and stationary items.

The post stated, “Our heart goes out to everyone impacted by this devastating fire.” GCAP also included links to multiple donation pages for affected students on their link tree, located on their Instagram page.

Besides this, the Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ) is currently curating a fire relief fund to support residents impacted by this fire and the Goodman Fire located in ward five.

UCR is encouraging affected students who need emergency assistance to contact UCR basic needs at (951)-827-3663 or their email housingsupport@ucr.edu and UCR’s Counseling and Psychological Services at 951-827-5531. ■ H

Student perspectives on California Primaries beyond the ballot

CONFUSION IN THE AIR LEAVES STUDENTS FEELING OVERWHELMED ABOUT THE UPCOMING ELECTIONS.

California Primaries are set to take place on June 2, 2026. The Highlander Newspaper staff collected student views around campus about the upcoming election, getting a sneak peak into what the rising adults of 2026 are looking forward to as they prepare to select one of the 60 different candidates to replace the current California Gov., Gavin Newsom. The students that were interviewed on May 28, 2026, share the common feeling that there is a lot of confusion about the election process and that information is not easily accessible. Many claim that Generation Z (Gen Z) is also being framed as apathetic with its low voter turnout for the younger population, showing how not everyone is properly represented with the winning candidate that moves on in the November election.

For instance, Ro Zheng, fourth year psychology major, claims that political parties often push the voters’ decision to be one sided with the fame of parties, rather than the individual having the time to process the policy agreements advocated by the candidate. This is especially important because minorities, especially in cities like Riverside, often have their issues overlooked in these election races. It’s as if voters are merely focused on getting their party to win. Zheng also believes that there is a lot of confusion on what is real, making people feel overwhelmed by the amount of information and choices they have. This opinion was also shared by fifth

year theatre, film and digital productions major, Leslie Padilla Zepeda, who adds that no one “knows how California primaries actually work. I don’t think anyone fully grasps how weird it is.” Zepeda also believes that information is not easily accessible for many, making it harder for more students to get involved in political decisions.

Moreover, students were also asked about their opinion on the policies that the current 2026 candidates are running with, such as debating whether California should keep its current path or take a completely different direction on issues like housing costs and homelessness.

Jacob Madrid, another one of the interviewees, believes that although all of these issues are important to the quality of living in California, there’s a lot of money being poured into issues. Some of these problems include homelessness, low cost housing, the lack of attention when it comes funding being placed on quality of education (i.e. paying teachers) and the impact that investment companies have on out pricing working class families from homes already built. The third year psychology major also expresses the sentiment that “California needs someone to take the place of Gavin Newsom with the ability to make difficult decisions of allocating budget to support the future of the state instead of solutions that bandaid ones that are a result of years of systematic inequalities.”

Furthermore, California practices the

“jungle primary” system in which people can vote for any candidate regardless of their political party. The two candidates with the most votes move on to the final election in November, even if they are both from the same party.

Students were asked whether this system is a good way to find a candidate who appeals to everyone, or does it instead make it harder for individuals to feel represented if their specific party doesn’t make the cut. Second year business administration major Vinh Garbez adds that it is much easier to have a system where people can rank candidates instead of just voting for one since everyone can be represented more accurately by reflecting the needs of people. This was also discussed in another perspective by Zepeda, stating that the candidates that win are usually not the ones that represent the popular opinion. Instead, the opinion of those groups are likely to have a high voter turnout, such as “old, and white background” residents. This, in turn, suppresses voter voice.

The students interviewed share a common opinion that there is a lot of confusion in the air regarding voting in the primaries, who is running and what they are supporting, problems regarding voter turnout being low due to lack of information and confidence, rather than Gen Z being apathetic, and not focusing on issues that are much deeper than home prices and homelessness.

One Big Beautiful Bill restricts financial aid for healthcare fields

FUTURE FIRST RESPONDERS MIGHT HAVE TO STRUGGLE TO PAY FOR HIGHER EDUCATION, POTENTIALLY CRUSHING THE US HEALTHCARE SYSTEM.

ETHAN GARCIA Contributing Writer

On May 19, California and 24 other states filed a lawsuit against the Department of Education’s which implemented the One Big Beautiful Bills (OB3) new restrictions on federal graduate financial aid. Previously, all graduate students could borrow up to the cost of attendance, which is an estimated total of both university and living expenses. Trump’s OB3 will make it harder for University of California, Riverside (UCR) graduate students to attend college, as the full cost of attendance would no longer be covered. For example, regular UCR graduate students face an in-state tuition of $7,080.83 a quarter ($21,162.49 annually) and graduate students pursuing a medical degree faced in-state tuition of $15,948.83 a quarter ($47,846.49 annually).

With the new caps, it is a near certainty that students will be forced to take out a private loan to make up for the difference in tuition and/or cost of living. This creates a serious financial burden that graduate students at UCR will have to contend with. As a result, extra work may have to be taken on in place of studying, reducing their overall academic performance and limiting their possibilities for internship opportunities.

What makes this more troubling is that UCR is ranked No.1 in social mobility. UCR

is the university where low-income students go to improve their economic circumstances.

The definition of a “professional degree” has been made stricter in the Department of Education’s final ruling. Failure to stop the current administration’s attempt to restrict federal student loans will make higher education less affordable and amplify the healthcare shortage the U.S. already faces.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon defended cutting financial aid at the House Committee on Education and the Workforce hearing, suggesting that it will incentivise universities to lower their graduate cost of education. So far, the University of California, Irvine has lowered its tuition by about 25% for two of its masters of business administration programs.

Cuts to tuition could mean budget cuts to other areas of university spending and limiting access to student resource centers, basic need programs and academic advising. Programs like nursing require a student-tofaculty ratio of 8:1, and are unlikely to see tuition cuts. Situations such as these could force institutions to downsize their programs or pass on some of the program’s costs to undergraduate students.

The medical field’s workforce shortage is expected to deepen as the restrictions on fed-

eral financial aid increase the barrier to entry. In the U.S., the average cost for medical school is $229,959. At the University of California, Los Angeles, the cost of attendance for the first year is $124,342 alone. Getting a medical degree has high upfront costs, and many students rely on financial aid to relieve part of that burden. The reduction of financial aid limits accessibility of careers, especially for those that face socioeconomic disadvantages. This is especially true for professions such physician assistants, registered nurses and physical therapists where there is relatively less pay. As a result, fewer students are likely to apply for these programs, worsening the healthcare crisis.

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Features Horoscopes

Final Advice

Oct.

Four of Cups Reversed

Your expectations are too high. It’s not easy trying to balance school and fun. Keep your focus on your goals and then you’ll be free to start your summer.

Queen of Swords

Don’t lie to yourself. Studying is your top priority! Making time to study each night will help you in the time of finals.

(March 21 – April 19):

Six of Swords Reversed Finals are stressing you out. Maybe you have two tests back to back. Just remember to rest in between study sessions, you don’t want to risk brain fog.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22):

The Magician

The will to pass is in your hands. Don’t let your comfort make you slow down on your progress. Keep going and you will be on your way to success.

FINALS ARE COMING UP, GET READY AS YOUR DESTINY UNFOLDS.

Five of Wands

It’s a race to the top! Let your ambition guide you to first place. Don’t let other people’s loud wins ruin your fun. Continue to fight and you will win.

King of Pentacles

You are the master of your destiny! Great work keeping your grind up this whole semester. Don’t stress too much, but keep doing an amazing job at taking your academics seriously.

MAIN ST

(April 20 – May 20):

Wheel of Fortune

You’re doing great! Study and let your hard work pay off. Stay on path and your final will be a quick storm to pass.

ORANGE ST

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22):

The Sun

Right now it may be hard to see your path in all your worry and anxiety. You can get through this hard time. Trust your intuition and trust that you have put in the work.

MARIA MARTINEZ Contributing Writer

Wheel of Fortune Reversed

Your luck is running low. Don’t depend on a wishing star or lucky clover to pass your classes. Make sure you stay focused and seek help if you feel lost.

Eight of Pentacles Reversed

Your friends are respecting your time and their time to study. Don’t take it as an offence. It’s for you to focus on what is important. Do well on your studies and your time to relax will come around.

21 – June 20):

The Devil

Let go of your unhelpful habits or activities. It’s not time to focus on clubs or friends. Make the right decisions now to make sure your school work doesn’t suffer.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22):

The Star

Your classes have been unjust and you’re struggling to believe in yourself. Don’t let your downfall keep you from moving forward. Finish strong and you will see victory.

NORM’S NOOK

SPOTLIGHT

The psychology building green

Though it may be a bit far removed, the psychology building green comprises two gorgeous lawns secluded from the rest of the hustle and bustle of campus. As soon as you cross under the Olmstead overpass, you immediately enter the calm of the psychology building. The two beautiful lawns that encompass the winding pathway are always freshly mowed and shaded by sturdy trees. It is the perfect picnic location or place to de-

UCR ALUMNI

compress after an exam. Students are seen crossing the lawn as they walk to their discussion or chatting with friends after a class. The green is also close enough to the School of Business Cafe for you to grab a sweet treat to enjoy in the shade. So plan your next picnic there! The psychology green is the perfect location to relax.

1. Pot _____

6. Older casino card game

10. Pride Month

14. Cute mammal swimmer that floats on its back

15. Mideast’s Gulf of ____ -

De facto capital of Yemen

16. “_ ___ on both your houses!”

17. Phrase affirming all kinds of relationships

19. Sheltered bay

20. Social inferiors

21. New York’s _______

Lakes

23. Copies and pa____

25. Popular male Arabic name meaning “affection” and “companion”

26. Iconic Stonewall Riot figurehead (misspelled)

32. ___ __ a time - classic elementary school teacher reprimand

33. “Pretty Woman” actor

34. Iconic trans and gay rights activist initials

37. “Goddess of Pop” and LGBTQ icon

38. Highway divisions

40. French for “silk”

41. Spotify interruptions

42. “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” actress

43. “It’s _ ____!”: “True!”

44. Platinum-selling singer who co-starred in the films “Moonlight” and “Hidden Figures”

47. _____-toothed tiger

50. PlayStation maker

By K Staff

1. Restaurant freebie, bread

2. Great Plains tribe

51. Seaplane inventor Glenn

54. One-named Brazilian soccer star

59. “I smell _ ___!”

60. First openly gay man to hold public office in California

62. Wander, as in gaze

63. Wings (nematode anatomy)

64. Luxurious tapestry

65. Singer Mercury’s nickname

66. University offerings at graduation (abbr.)

67. Synonym for “cool!”

DOWN

3. Off-roaders, for short

4. ____ Candies

5. Doesn’t back away

6. More unnatural

7. “Much ___ About Nothing”

8. ____ a motorcycle

9. “You can only have ___ _ day!”

10. Long-toed aquatic bird

11. “Once ____ _ time...”

Exploding stars

Suits 18. Spanish for “Miss” (abbr.)

Steak specification

Traffic stoplights

Music genre known as

“The Soul of Calypso”

Quality that TV shows air

____ Sandwiches

Assortment (abbr.)

Hosp. areas

Typographic unit of

PC linkup

“___ we there yet?”

Bay Area

Quick mushroom breakfast

By: Brianna Galaviz-Villagómez, Contributing Writer

Use ingredients from the R’Pantry!

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, wash the mushrooms and drain. Add oil to a pan on medium heat and add in the onions. Stir until golden brown. Add in the mushrooms, egg and salt.

2. After the egg has been cooked, add the bell pepper, kale and ginger. Turn off the heat and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

• 1 cup of beech mushrooms

• 1 chopped red bell pepper

• 1 egg

• 1 pinch of salt

• 2 tablespoons of oil

• 1/4 cup of chopped red onion

• 1/4 cup of chopped kale

• 1 garlic clove finely chopped

• 1/2 tablespoon of grated ginger

SUDOKU

DIFFICULTY: HARD

Find out what your next vacation spot will be.

By: Nola Perifel, Contributing Writer

What color combination speaks out to you?

A. Red, black, gold and white

B. Cream, brown, sage and evergreen

C. Beige, turquoise, coral and green

When picking your next vacation spot:

A. You look at what is next on your list of adventures

B. You pick solely based on the food and the sights

C. You choose what is most relaxing and paradisiacal

When traveling, your top priority is:

A. To see everything you can possibly see

B. To enjoy the food and learn about the history

C. To relax and soak in the sun

If you got “A,” your ideal vacation spot is Tokyo, Japan. You like movement, noise and busy cities. You thrive off of the hustle and bustle of people around you. Tokyo has been on your travel list since before you can remember and you are finally ready to start your adventure there. The bright neon colors of the city perfectly capture your energetic and enthusiastic personality. Tokyo is the perfect place for you to spend your time this summer.

If you got “B,” your ideal vacation spot is Rome, Italy. Pasta, pizza, truffles and tiramisu. The food waits for you in Rome. This beautiful, ancient city holds so much history and this is the perfect location for you if you love to learn about the past. You might be someone who loves classics and you may also be a hopeless romantic. If this applies to you, Rome might be the next spot on your bucket list.

If you got “C,” your ideal vacation spot is Papeete, Tahiti. With clear blue oceans and coral reefs, what you need this summer is relaxation on the white sand beach. You love to chill during the summer. You go with the flow and you never need an organized vacation. Planning ahead only stresses you out. This summer, you should soak in the sun and get the best tan of your life.

GISSELLE RIOS Contributing Writer

Club Spotlight: Tartan Seoul at UCR and their transformative journey

THE SUCCESS AND COMMUNITY BUILT AROUND KOREAN POP MUSIC AT UCR.

The University of California, Riverside (UCR) gives students a space to freely express themselves and their personal interests. At the Student Recreation Center (SRC), this is seen significantly within each multi-purpose room (MPR) where students spend countless hours perfecting their work for their clubs. These MPRs hold memories, friendships, community and hard work every time they are booked. They hold a space for transformative clubs weekly. Tartan Seoul, in particular, is one of them. Tartan Seoul shows their love for Korean Pop music and dance all in one, creating a place for people to do what they love with inclusion of a niche personal interests.

Tartan Seoul is a K-pop dance team on campus established in the fall of 2014, as stated by Alisha Lai, a fourth year biology student and dance director of Tartan Seoul. Lai explained that they were previously under a different name as a subset of a different club. Then in 2023, they became Tartan Seoul. Tartan Seoul consists of various dance performance events as well as socials for everyone to come enjoy games and food. They also perform around campus with their most recent performance being at the Blossom Festival where they had two performances, both being from their cover groups.

Performances by Tartan Seoul are not strictly campus based as they also perform around the general area, such as K-pop events in Orange County, LA and Riverside. Not including the amazing showcases at the end of each quarter,

which is open to anyone to come and perform together. A lot of their club members like to make little groups with friends, and perform at the end of the quarter, just to showcase what their team is about, and everything that they have been working on.

“You don’t have to love K-pop or K-pop dances, but a lot of people in our team and in our club just dance without really listening to K-pop,” Lai voiced. She believes Tartan Seoul is a space for everyone, not just those interested in either K-pop or dance. Lai also encourages those who are interested or passionate about either topic to audition for their competitive cover team which allows their performances to be uploaded to Youtube and perform in different cities.

Co-Director Kelly Dai also shared how Tartan Seoul was her first introduction to UCR, and from then on built her friend group. In her first year, she wanted to be more involved and present what she likes to the community, creating her own personal community with similar interests.

The club seemingly brought UCR a legitimate space for individuals to be themselves and share interests with those around them, creating a welcoming community, home away from home. Their overall goal emphasizes cleanliness and synced dance, so their styles and themes create high energy. Although aside from that they believe their team is naturally not very serious but a more fun team that likes to enjoy different dances and concepts, so they try to tie in some professionalism

alongside creative freedom.

They meet Wednesdays at 6 p.m. with possibility of change due to MPR availability in the SRC or the director board availability. Their weekly dance workshops are open for any student and open to all dance levels. They last about two hours, and normally teach popular K-pop songs or any dances that have been trending in the K-pop community.

The club truly embodied UCR’s goal of belonging and creating a safe and healthy community. Lai and Dai both retold their experience as four year members and directors: “I think for me being a part of board has taught me how to work with others, or with people that are always changing, because our board changes every year [...] I think that taught me just to be adaptable. Also within an organization things can go wrong at any moment, so also just being able to adapt to fast changes like that and being able to problem solve quickly,” Lai recalled.

Lai continued, “I think for me, a lot of it is just when I’m with our team and everything, and we’re dancing together, either at our performances, or our showcases … It’s just really nice to see, especially at the end of the year, being like, ‘Wow, this is all the work that we’ve put in, and we’re seeing the results of it.’ And it’s just really nice to be like, ‘Wow, I met you at the beginning of the year, I didn’t even know you, but by now we’re so much closer, we’re friends.’ [...] I think that’s just really rewarding to see.”

JOSÉ DEL ÁNGEL Contributing Writer

It’s quiet by the wooden bridge

I NEVER LIKED THE QUIET BEFORE.

The western side feels so loud. Voices layered over voices, expectations thrown like stones, people speaking as if they knew the shape my life should take.

The western side carried too much sound, judgment in every crowded room, pressure hidden inside advice, love measured by impossible standards.

I learned how to disappear inside noise. But crossing the wooden bridge changed something. The wood creaks softly beneath my feet, the river moves without asking questions and all the noise from the western side stays behind me somehow.

It’s quiet by the wooden bridge; I never liked the quiet before.

At first the silence felt unbearable. Like standing alone with every thought I spent years trying to outrun. But then through the stillness, one voice remained. Not louder than the world, just steadier.

A voice that never demanded anything, never asked me to become someone else, never turned love into a performance. It followed me gently through the quiet. Sometimes I walk the bridge at night just to hear it again.

The western side still hums behind me, restless and impatient, but out there the river swallows everything that doesn’t matter. And for a moment the weight of everyone else disappears.

No expectations. No judgment. No endless noise asking me to prove

myself. Only the sound of water below and the memory of someone who once spoke to me like I was already enough.

So I keep walking the wooden bridge, long after the lights dim, long after the world grows distant. Because some part of me believes if I stay long enough in the quiet, that voice will find me again.

Things to do in summer if you’re not traveling

Features Editor

WAYS TO HAVE FUN WITHOUT THE DESTINATION.

For most of us students, summer can never seem to come fast enough. After a whole year of locking in, procrastinating on exams (and hopefully passing them) and living off of food from the dining halls, we want nothing more than to be free from the shackles of college life. But even after the year ends, some of us don’t really have much to look forward to. Maybe you’re stuck with summer classes, or a boring job that pays you too little. You want out, but certain circumstances don’t allow it. Despite it all, it’s still possible to have a fun, eventful summer. Here are a few things you can do that’s sure to guarantee you a restful yet fulfilling break!

Café hopping

A bit of a pricey endeavor but fun nonetheless! With a friend or family member, try and tackle all the local cafés in your area and see how many you can visit before the day ends. Although it’s customary to purchase at least one item at each location, make sure you don’t overdose on caffeine. I recommend you and your group buy just one or two drinks at a time to save both your wallets and your stomachs. Take some aesthetic pictures for the Instagram, yap with whoever you came with or just spend the time reading a book. If you’re going to do the latter, make sure to order matcha and listen to Laufey on your wired earbuds.

This activity is not just limited to coffee shops, but animal cafés as well! Cat cafés are becoming more popular in the U.S., and there are coffee shops solely dedicated to dog owners. Consider checking them out if you want to pass the day with one hand holding a cup of coffee and the other petting a furry face.

Local vendor markets

Support your local small businesses while having fun at the same time. There’s bound to be a night market or farmer’s market near you.

These markets are full of small vendors looking to sell fresh produce, homemade food or cute knick-knacks. Walk around from stall to stall with either the intent to purely window shop, or to cop a goodie or two. Some of my favorite purchases from night markets include pork belly skewers and my treasured crocheted capybara keychain!

It’s also nice to just talk with these vendors, as many of them come from a variety of different backgrounds. A lot of these markets also act as mini festivals and you might get to see fun performances from indie bands!

MAIN ST

Volunteer

Maybe you want to spend the summer doing something a bit more meaningful. Volunteering is a great way to do that, as you get to help those in need. If you have trouble finding volunteering opportunities, go to your local county’s government website! Most governments are often understaffed and in need of help. A key tip is to volunteer in programs you’re actually interested in; otherwise, you may get bored and

find the work uneventful.

Binge cringe TV shows and movies

Perhaps the most painful way to spend summer this year. Treat this activity as the ultimate trynot-to-cringe challenge. Gather around your friends, set up Netflix, prepare a snack medley full of popcorn and M&Ms and binge-watch some cringe shows and movies that are only watchable with a group. Prepare to cover your eyes, throw your popcorn at the TV and to scream your lungs out at the atrocities that are mauling your vision. Some recommendations I have are “XO Kitty” and the “Twilight” movie series. A strong contender is the “Bee Movie.” If you want to challenge yourself even further, hide the remote during this marathon to ensure you watch each and every scene! Just a warning: at the end of all this, you may have many regrets. So those are just a few things you can do this summer if you have no plans to travel! It’s important to have fun, but also rest up while you can, because before you know it, it’s fall quarter.

Coffeecito House

ENJOY THIS NEW STUDY SPOT: A COFFEE SHOP BUILT INTO A HOUSE.

Finals week is upon us. The season of allnighters draws ever closer and the only thing that can keep us sustained is coffee. The usual places on campus are growing stale, the routine becomes boring and the flavors have lost their excitement. Students delve further into the city, seeking new coffee shops and study spaces. Here, in downtown Riverside, is your newest entry to the rotation. Welcome to Coffeecito House.

With its grand opening on Dec. 1, 2023, owners Brittnee and Steve Chavarria converted a Victorian style home in Riverside into a coffee shop. Coffeecito draws inspiration from Latin style food and drinks and puts its own delicious twist on it. The shop offers drinks like Churro Oat Lattes and HorCHAItas (a chai latte that tastes like horchata). If coffee is not your preferred form of caffeine intake, they offer teas and a category called Lotus Energy Drinks. These beverages are plant-based energy that give the same kick of caffeine. Some of the names of these drinks include El Paraiso (blood orange, coconut and peach) and Sweet Cartagena (strawberry, peach and vanilla syrups topped with sweet foam).

The drinks are not where the interesting names and flavors stop. Coffeecito offers a range of breakfast and lunch items. Breakfast covers everything from chorizo burritos to veggie egg big bites. Lunch offers items such as the Cubano sandwich and the empanada grande. They even offer pastries like their

churro muffin, guava and cream cheese turnover and their macaron cake pops. With these extravagantly delicious names, one would think they cost an arm and a leg to purchase, as many coffee shops in Riverside do. Surprisingly, the price ranges of the food are $3.30 - $12.75. The drinks range in price from $3.30 - $6.85. Of course, these prices may be subject to change depending on substitutions or added syrups.

I ended up reviewing one of their specialty drinks:

Dulce de Leche Latte

Price: $5.95

Rating: 5/5

This latte was so delicious! At first, you think it’ll be the regular cinnamon lattes that seem to pervade every single specialty coffee shop. Something about this drink tasted different. Whether it was the caramel that seemed richer than the flavored syrups or the thick, sweet condensed milk, this latte stood out above the rest. The caramel was so sweet and was so welcome after so much disappointing coffee.

Coffeecito House is a business you will hear before you see. Because the outside looks like a house you would find on the outskirts of downtown, don’t panic if you don’t immediately see it. Follow the music or your GPS through the black iron gates to the front door. You will cross through a

mini garden and patio area. There is so much outdoor seating that you won’t need to worry about there not being enough seating inside. You’ll walk up the stairs and through doors with beautiful glass windows. From there, you can either turn left to see the menus and order or you can turn right to the seating area.

The indoor seating area has such lovely options. You can choose the window options: either the full tables or the bar that faces out to the street. You can also pick the couch that sits under a sarape with a neon sign saying Coffecito House. If you can’t pick, there are also a couple tables that give you a good view of everything, so you don’t feel like you’re missing out!

Coffeecito House is a brilliantly constructed coffee shop. The building itself is so different from the traditional and their flavors don’t seek to replicate everything that’s trending right now. The big windows and their outdoor seating area ensure you don’t feel confined in a small area. And, when studying gets boring, you can people watch, perhaps drawing inspiration for what you’re working on. Coffeecito House is open everyday from 7 a.m to 3:30 p.m except on the weekends when they open an hour later. Think of this place when considering your study rotation. I promise it will not disappoint!

COmiCs

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A Really Big Cat - Susanna Wu

Welcome to Normchella: A breath of fresh air

RHA AND CARA HOST ONE OF THE BIGGEST EVENTS OF THE YEAR, FEATURING LIVE STUDENT PERFORMANCES.

JOSÉ DEL ÁNGEL Contributing Writer

On May 26, 2026, the Residence Halls Association (RHA), in partnership with the Campus Apartments Resident Association (CARA), hosted Normchella.This creative re-creation of Coachella was hosted at Pentland Greeneries and was a breath of fresh air compared to the repetitiveness of the belltower’s annual events. Normchella invited the talents around the University of California, Riverside (UCR) to participate and perform in front of the student body.

Students packed the Pentland Hills residential complex which was transformed into a festival-style space filled with games, vendors, performances and food ahead of finals season.

With music playing throughout the venue and students crowding activities booths, the event offered a relaxed environment for residents to unwind and socialize before the end of the quarter.

Amenities and activities

The most popular parts of the event were the interactive attractions spread across the venue. Students lined up through the evening for laser tag, inflatable obstacle courses and basketball hoops set up near the center of the event space.

The laser tag arena consistently drew large crowds, while inflatable attractions and basketball hoops encouraged groups of friends to compete and cheer each other on. Beanbag seating areas around the venue also gave attendees space to relax between activities.

Many students described the event as a fun

and low pressure way to take a break from academic stress before finals week.

“A lot of people are just here to hang out and mess around,” Jacob Ramirez, a UCR student and local resident stated. “It’s not overwhelming like other events, and that’s what makes it fun.”

Students praised the inflatable obstacle course, with many returning multiple times throughout the night.

Food Options

Food stations throughout the event gave students another place to gather and socialize. Long lines formed near food booths as attendees grabbed snacks and drinks between activities. The event offered free popcorn, cotton candy and mocktails to all attendees.

Students would sit together near the beanbag seating areas while eating and talking with friends. The casual snack options contributed to the relaxed environment organizers appeared to create for Pentland Hills residents.

Merchendise

The Normchella merchandise featured a black event T-shirt with a colorful design printed across the back in bright yellow and magenta tones. The artwork used graffitistyle lettering to display the “Normchella” name, giving the shirt a playful street-art aesthetic that matched the event’s energetic atmosphere.

Surrounding the main design were the names of featured activities and attractions offered throughout the night, including laser

tag and entertainment available around the venue. The old colors stood out sharply against the black fabric, making the design easily recognizable from across the crowd. Rather than being sold directly, the shirts were distributed through raffles held through the event. Some students wore the shirt through the evening, turning the merchandise into both a souvenir and a visual part of the event itself.

Musical Performances

A stage near the center of the venue featured performances and appearances by UCR students throughout the evening. Music continued throughout the event, adding energy to the festival atmosphere as students moved between attractions.

Although the performances were marketed as the main attraction of the event’s entertainment lineup, many attendees appeared more focused on the interactive attractions and social aspects of the evening. Crowds around games and activities often outnumbered those gathered near the stage. Still, the performances helped maintain the upbeat atmosphere as the event continued into the night.

By combining games, performances, vendors and snacks in a residential setting, Normchella gave students a chance to relax and connect with friends before finals season intensifies. Despite the large turnout, the atmosphere remained welcoming and community-focused throughout the evening.

Spider-Noir spins a darker, more mature web for Prime Video

A

FANTASTIC SHOW THAT IS A MUST-WATCH IN ITS ORIGINAL BLACK-AND-WHITE VERSION.

JOSÉ DEL ÁNGEL Contributing Writer

*Spoilers Ahead*

For more than six decades, Spider-Man has been defined as youthful optimism, wisecracks and enduring lessons that great power comes with great responsibility. Prime Video’s “Spider-Noir” turns that formula inside out.

Set in a stylized version of 1930s New York, the eight-episode series follows Ben Reilly, an ongoing vigilante and private investigator played by Nicolas Cage. The character is a far cry from the bright-eyed Peter Parker audiences know from the comics and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Reilly is weary, emotionally scarred and burdened by a past he cannot escape. The result is one of the most distinctive live-action adaptations ever produced from Marvel source material.

Rather than focusing on large-scale superhero battles, “Spider-Noir” embraces the conventions of classic detective fiction. Corruption runs through city government, organized crime controls entire neighborhoods and nearly every character operates within shades of gray. Murders, betrayals and conspiracies drive the story for more than traditional comic-book spectacle. That creative choice proves to be the show’s greatest strength.

From its opening scene, “Spider-Noir” establishes a mood of melancholy and dread. Rain-soaked streets, dimly lit offices and smoky jazz clubs create a visual identity that feels authentic to the film noir genre. Prime Video’s decision to offer the series in both color and black-and-white versions further reinforces the atmosphere. The monochrome presentation, in particular, enhances the feeling that viewers are watching a lost detective classic rather than a conventional superhero series.

At the center of everything is Cage, who previously voiced Spider-Man Noir in the animated “Spider-Verse” films.

His performance is eccentric, intense and surprisingly restrained when necessary. Cage understands that Ben Reilly is a man carrying years of guilt and disappointment. Even in quieter moments, he conveys the sense that his character is perpetually haunted by choices he cannot undo.

The supporting cast contributes significantly to the show’s success. Brendan Gleeson brings menace and complexity to crime boss Silvermane, avoiding the temptation to portray the character as a one-dimensional villain. Instead, Silvermane emerges as a calculating figure whose influence extends into every corner of the city.

Li Jun Li delivers one of the season’s most compelling performances as Cat Hardy. Throughout the series, Cat remains difficult to predict. Her shifting loyalties create tension in nearly every appearance, and her complicated relationship with Silvermane becomes increasingly important as the story progresses.

The show’s deliberate pacing may divide audiences. Viewers expecting frequent action sequences and constant displays of SpiderMan’s abilities could find the series slow. Entire episodes are devoted to investigations, interrogations and political intrigue. Yet that patience ultimately serves the story. The mystery unfolds methodically, allowing characters and relationships to develop in meaningful ways. The strongest material arrives in the final episode.

ORANGE ST

As Reilly uncovers the full extent of Silvermane’s criminal operations, the narrative builds toward what initially appears to be a traditional confrontation between hero and villain. Instead, the series delivers a conclusion that embraces noir conventions over superhero expectations.

The season’s most shocking moment occurs when Cat Hardy kills Silvermane. Rather than granting Reilly triumphant victory, the

show places the decisive act in the hands of a character whose motivations remain morally ambiguous. The scene underscores the central theme running throughout the series: justice and vengeance are rarely easy to distinguish.

The ensign is equally bleak. Reilly succeeds in preventing widespread destruction and dismantling parts of Silvermane’s empire, but the victory comes at a high personal cost. Relationships are shattered, sacrifices are made and the protagonist is left carrying emotional wounds that cannot simply be erased by saving the day.

The refusal to provide a completely satisfying resolution is likely to frustrate some viewers. Others will appreciate the show’s commitment to its noir identity. Unlike many modern superhero productions, “Spider-Noir” resists the urge to guarantee happiness for its character.

The series is not without flaws. Some supporting storylines received less development than they deserve, and a few episodes struggle to balance detective drama with comic-book mythology. Certain plot developments feel rushed, particularly near the end of the season. Still, those shortcomings are outweighed by the show’s ambitions and confidence.

In an era crowded with interconnected superhero franchises, “Spider-Noir” stands apart because it is willing to take risks. It trades colorful spectacle for atmosphere, certainty for ambiguity and heroism for tragedy. Most importantly, it trusts audiences to engage with a slower, more mature story.

The result is a compelling and often memorable drama that happens to feature a Spider-Man character rather than a typical Spider-Man show.

‘The Punisher: One Last Kill’ is a near-perfect examination of Marvel’s coldest antihero

IAN PALMA Managing Editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF IMDB

A CHARACTER STUDY OF BIBLICALLY BRUTAL PROPORTIONS.

**This Review Contains Spoilers**

There is arguably no Marvel character more worthy of an on-screen detailed analysis than the Punisher. With a background drenched in trauma and heartbreak, ranging from his time in the military to the unfortunate massacre of his family, Frank Castle is practically ripe for a character study in a vein similar to “Taxi Driver” coupled with a revenge plot and unwavering violence of “Kill Bill.” With season one of “Daredevil: Born Again” providing a bloody cliffhanger for the antihero, the time is more than right for audiences to explore Castle’s psyche.

A defining choice within “The Punisher: One Last Kill” that separates it from most Marvel presentations is its commitment to exploring the fractured mindset of Castle all while putting the action in the backseat. Even though Marvel has already touched on themes of mental health and psychosis over the last few years through films and television shows such as “Moon Knight” and “Thunderbolts,” none of these projects have addressed these topics in a gritty and serious manner quite like the special. The presentation doesn’t hold back when it comes to depicting Frank simply as an emotional and forlorn war

veteran teetering on the brink of total despair. Although it isn’t the first time that he is depicted in this state of hopelessness, the special arguably tops all films and television shows starring the Punisher when it comes to depicting him at his lowest and most vulnerable. Given some of the selfless acts Frank performs throughout the special, it’s evident that the underlying purpose of “The Punisher: One Last Kill” is to humanize and display his sense of compassion, albeit still retaining a penchant for violence as well.

With the amount of visceral action that’s depicted throughout the special, it’s safe to say that Marvel hasn’t completely watered Frank down into a family-friendly, one dimensional character. Although most of the exciting scenes happen within the last 30 minutes, the wait is all but rewarding as Frank mows down hordes of troublemakers across protracted hallways and apartment floors in a style akin to “The Raid.” Scenes where Frank clears out rooms in a completely fluid manner are sure to draw comparisons to other action film sequences like the dragon’s breath scene in “John Wick 4.”

The special throws in character appearances that feel more like fan service rather than anything else. Familiar faces from the original Netflix show such as Karen Page and Curtis Hoyle serve no

Summer Reading List

other purpose than to simply taunt Castle. Karen in particular has no other reason to appear within the presentation, especially given the fact that she’s still alive and well. Additionally, the Gnucci family’s presence within the special feels somewhat wasted. Their whereabouts and actions since they were last seen back in the Netflix show is mentioned briefly in a quick but vague flashback. It’s safe to say that their introduction to the Marvel Cinematic Universe could’ve handled their reintroduction a lot better.

All in all, “The Punisher: One Last Kill” serves as a phenomenal “born again” moment for one of Marvel’s most infamous vigilantes. With the Punisher also being set to appear in “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” one can only wonder whether this sympathetic yet unflinchingly brutal side to him throughout the special will also translate into the film as well.

Verdict: “The Punisher: One Last Kill” serves as one of Marvel’s best character studies in recent years. The special’s success can be without a doubt attributed to its determination to humanize and reestablish him as more than a simple one-man army.

BOOKS TO READ WHEN LAYING BY THE OCEAN.

ANGELICA ACOSTA Editor-in-Chief

“Psalm of the Wild Built by Becky Chambers”

This cozy fantasy is for the people-pleasers. Becky Chambers’ 2021 novel uses flowery descriptions and in-depth character building to fully immerse readers into the novel. Follow along as a monk slowly loses his dream, in pursuit of helping others accomplish theirs. In a world where tea can solve all life’s problems and robots are abandoned members of society, readers find escapism and their lost dreams too.

11/18

Arts and Letters: Susan Straight @ Palm Center Desert Auditorium, 6 p.m.

no further than Jennifer Lynn Barnes’ criminally underrated young adult series “The Naturals.” A group of gifted and severely traumatized teenagers begin working for the FBI to solve cold cases the institution long overlooked. Cassie Hobbes, the newest recruit, starts to cause problems when she begins to find links between her mother’s disappearance and one particular cold case. The reader will solve mysteries with natural born profilers, a super genius, an emotion reader and a human lie detector. The novel is perfect to keep bored minds occupied during the summer months.

Student Performance and Composition Concert @Arts Building 1521, 12 p.m.

“Problematic Summer Romance” by Allie Hazlewood

Allie Hazlewood has done it again. Her 2025 romance release hits all the summer romance vibes, exotic getaway, summer flings and story book weddings. Maya Killgore and Conor Harkness, Hazlewood’s two main leads, had a previous fling until they called it off because of their 15 year gap as well as the fact that Maya’s beloved older brother also happens to be Conor’s best friend. Readers can follow along as two soulmates find love again at Maya’s brother’s wedding. A perfect summer tearjerker for second chance romance fanatics.

11/20

“The Naturals” by Jennifer Lynn Barnes Looking for a spine chilling mystery series, look

“Atmosphere” by Taylor Jenkins Reid Craving a meaningful thought-provoking read, “Atmosphere” is the perfect book to fill that void. Reid balances heartful emotional themes with characters that are a breath of fresh air to readers. Reid’s characters are raw and flawed, allowing the audience to see reflections of themselves.

“Atmosphere” in classic Reid fashion jumps through the timeline of a failed space expedition, focusing on the lives of the astronauts and mission control agents that all went through the same training program together. The interconnected lives of the characters and the internal struggles of the main character Joan Goodwin have readers captivated from the very first line.

“Daughter of the Pirate King” by Tricia Levenseller

From swashbuckling pirates to blood thirsty sirens, Levenseller’s young adult novel is the perfect binge series for casual summer readers. Levenseller perfects the strong female protagonist without taking away from the character’s femininity. Alosa Kalligan is the daughter of the infamous pirate king and she lives up to her name. When she is captured by rival pirates she stands her ground, refusing to give up her father’s legendary treasure. While aboard the enemy ship, Alosa starts to make an unlikely ally in the crew’s first mate Riden Allemos. Levenseller’s pirate series is perfect for yacht days or for relaxing time in the sun while breathing in the salty ocean air.

fakemink is terrified

RAP’S HOTTEST ARTIST RELEASES HIS LONG AWAITED PROJECT.

AAKIF IQBAL Contributing Writer

The ascension of an artist is always a fascinating trajectory to study. For every musician like Justin Bieber who practically blew up over night, there are equally as many cases of musicians never blowing up in their lifetime like folk singer Nick Drake. The pressure with newfound fame can be startling for any artist, let alone a young person, but especially when the artist is ambitious. The larger they grow, the bigger the necessity becomes to do something with their platform.

This pressure is the driving force of rapper fakemink’s new album “Terrified .”

While the artist has been in front of massive audiences before, being brought on stage by rappers like Drake and EsDeeKid, a lot has changed for him in the last year. From linking up with Frank Ocean, to walking a runaway show in Demna Gvasalia’s debut collection for Gucci, to even beefing with fellow underground rapper Nettspend, he is quickly realizing he is no longer the small artist he was before.

The Essex-based rapper has quickly become known for a variety of underground rap songs like “LV Sandals” which he made in collaboration with EsDeeKid, “Music and me,” and “Fever.” What separates him from the average underground rapper or generally as a musician is the versatility in subgenres he chooses to explore. He has rapped on everything from electronic indie beats, to quiet, atmospheric rhythms and more classical rap beats with heavy 808 drums.

Noah Dillon, lead singer of The Hellp, compared the way fakemink is to Lil Wayne and that comparison feels apt for a musician that released almost 50 singles in 2024. Having a background in producing and drawing from a wide array of influences from avant-garde filmmaker David Lynch to fashion-designer Alexander McQueen, it is clear he is approaching music from a different lens.

With his latest project, “Mink” has decided to take things a step further. While his previous distribution model focused around producing, writing, recording and releasing a song as quickly as possible, “Terrified .” has a classic album roll-out featuring singles and a release date. While the artist has flirted with projects in the past, “Terrified .” has marked a complete change from him.

Mentioned during his first major interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, he explained that it was upon the failure of his last project “London’s Saviour” that he realized that music audiences would need to catch up to him before he could release another major work, and the day has arrived.

While many of his hit singles have

included collaborations with rappers and producers from all over the underground rap scene, most songs on “Terrified .” feature production and vocals solely by fakemink and that was intentional. Not only is the album an opportunity for the musician to speak to a larger audience, but it is also a way for him to display what makes his music so unique.

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Starting with a horror-movie-esque score on the title-track “Terrified .” before quickly switching to a much heavier rap instrumental on “All Eyes On Me,” perfectly depicts the aesthetics of the project. Haunting layered instrumentals populate the tracklist alongside a plethora of auto-tune vocals and quick percussion. As an unofficial thesis of the album, the lyrics of “All Eyes On Me” perfectly reflect the mindset the musician is under, singing about everybody seeing the nights he doesn’t sleep and what lies upon him.

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Following “All Eyes on Me,” the tracklist switches base to a more classical environment for fakemink with “Playlist .” With a heavy atmospheric instrumental, the melancholia of some of his most regarded earlier work can be heard once again as he sings about being on playlists. While the hook may suggest a more classical interpretation of the success that comes with being more visible on popular music compilations, the

emotion in his delivery suggests a deeper complexity within his feelings of how it feels to amass such fame.

As the album continues, the rapper swings from a variety of different styles, from maximalist dissonant horror beats to 2000s-esque hip-hop beats, going deeper into his own psyche.

In the aforementioned interview with Zane Lowe, Mink mentioned his ambitions with hoping to create such big waves with the album that people will look back on music as before and after “Terrified .” While the unpolished nature of the album may put a wrench in his hopes of it succeeding beyond those who are okay listening to messy mixes and high-pitched vocals, the album depicts a lot of promise for where the artist’s future may be headed.

Verdict:

“Terrified .” will not be an album for everybody but with catchy hits in “51 Ttashpel Pony Ave .” and “Night, Blooming Jasmine .,” it is a must-listen for fans of music searching for something more than the typical alternative fare.

Album Review: EXPERIMENTAL RAP: JPEGMafia

Not experimental enough for the king of the subgenre.

ANTHONY ASCENCIO-CARVAJAL Staff Writer

On May 21, 2026, JPEGMafia released his sixth studio album “EXPERIMENTAL RAP.” Its title derives from the subgenre of experimental hip hop music which he laid the claim as the greatest to ever do it. Throughout his career he’s made stellar releases encapsulating the subgenre’s elements, from his album “Veteran” released in 2018, to working with fellow rapper Danny Brown on the trope-embracing “Scaring the Hoes” collaborative album in 2023.

Prior to the new album’s release, JPEG had been on a collaborative run, working on the EP “We Live in a Society,” with Flume and singles “Fake Jeezy,” with Denzel Curry and Maxo Kream. It wasn’t until April 30 that his fans would receive the first single of his new solo piece starting with the song “Babygirl.” The album rollout also consisted of an interview to explain the inspiration behind the release, leading to a brief dispute between Earl Sweatshirt and JPEGMafia.

In the interview, JPEGMafia monologued about how he stands above his peers when it came to experimental hip hop music. At the same time, he laid criticism to others who’ve been known to contribute to the subgenre, saying they use experimental rap as a means of “pretending to be cool.” Earl Sweatshirt, under the instagram username @ soapmanwun, commented “nobody copies cuh because his music is gnarled rough and ugly,” and “bro is the king of making crunchy a** music.” JPEGMafia uses the intro track to “Experimental Rap” to say how he feels by including a monologue from the comedian Paul Mooney in which he tells the audience no one is safe from jokes on themselves.

JPEGMafia’s onslaught of braggadocio rhymes about wealth is continued in songs like “$ (Money)” and “¥ (Yen).” with his triplet flows that could get repetitive over its use across the album’s tracklist. Other standout tracks that wouldn’t garner the title “experimental,” but still has notable sample use nonetheless is “Pop this Heat,” in which he samples “A Little Bit of Love” by Brenda Russell.

Another aspect of JPEGMafia’s music are his pro-black and anti-establishment themes and lyrics. Due to his time spent in Alabama during his adolescence along with being honorably discharged from the military due to speaking against abuse from his higher ups, he often speaks about systemic issues that resonate with his listeners.

This album is no different, since there are lots of references to iconic figures, such as on “Burning Hammer” when he says, “N***** want Khalid Muhammad, I’m the closest to him rhymin’.” Even straightforward mentions about injustice such as on “The Ghost of Emmett Till,” saying “F*** Carolyn Bryant,

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my n***** dying, it’s R.I.P. Emmett. She did the crime but ain’t do the time.” More examples come from the track, “Chat,” in which he calls out law enforcement injustices, in particular mentioning Derek Chauvin and the death of Rodney Hinton Jr’s son.

Paying homage to his inspirations is another way Peggy continues to show listeners all sides of his musical influences. On tracks like “New Era,” he mentions a list of artists from the 2000s he and those around him were fond of. From Gucci Mane to 50 Cent to Juelz Santana, he gives a shoutout to some of the top artists from that era. Now, JPEGMafia is a part of the new generation of artists who are creating buzz.

Even on the track, “Since I Met Ye,” he continues showing his support for Kanye amidst his controversies, despite his fans feeling this is hypocritical due to his efforts in speaking against fascism. On the track, “Lights,” he makes another reference by stating, “I feel like Ye when I’m tweakin’, I gotta defend it,” comparing his means of holding a strong conviction for his music just like those he admires.

The production found on this album being all produced by JPEGMafia does not disappoint as his style of beats continues to emphasize the concept of “experimental rap.” From old school samples, to industrial drum patterns,

punk influences and glitch hop effects, he takes advantage of what his music represents to try diving headfirst in the subgenre he’s a proponent of.

Overall, this album unironically insists upon itself, attempting to be the accumulation of experimental artistry that Peggy has built for us to recognize him for at this point. However, there have been plenty of other moments in his career in which he was arguably more experimental, without the need for explicit validation from his peers, audience or himself. Thus, the hype of new music is felt, but the aspect of experimentation is rather tame compared to prior expectations of a stated “experimental rap” album.

Verdict:

“Experimental Rap” is definitely another enjoyable experimental rap piece from none other than the “king of experimental rap rap,” JPEGMafia. However, standalone for what was its intended goal, it falls a bit flat due to the anticipation it was garnering,especially after the interview calling out Earl Sweatshirt and the run of releases he’s made in the past couple years that have outshined this piece by the same concepts he hoped to showcase.

Mascots are the best part of the game experience

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THE KEY TO FAN CULTURE IS ALL IN THE COSTUME.

IYANNA WALLACE Assistant Sports Editor

Whether you are a sports fan or someone who has casually caught a game, it’s clear that mascots have a way of making the game more memorable. They are much more than just characters and oversized costumes, they are entertainers, hype men and the face of fan culture.

Mascots are in almost every major sport and their presence can transform the most ordinary game into a memorable experience.

Team rosters are constantly changing due to trades and drafts, but mascots are forever. The only thing that changes about them is the costume design and even that doesn’t happen often. Mascots are undoubtedly a staple in fan culture because they are there through every win, loss, rebuild and championship.

Well known basketball mascots are a great example of this. The NBA Chicago Bulls’ Benny the Bull and the WNBA New York Liberty’s Ellie the Elephant have both become

social media icons. Videos of Benny’s midgame skits, popcorn stunts and halftime performances are constantly going viral. Ellie the Elephant is known for her dance moves and fashionable pregame outfits that have made her a fan-favorite in the Liberty community.

Outside of social media, hockey mascots especially play a big role in elevating the fan experience. Philadelphia Flyers’ mascot Gritty is known for captivating an audience’s attention. During home games, he controls what is known as “Gritty’s Chaos Corner,” where he interacts directly with fans through what is referred to as his “silly shenanigans.”

Even after intense plays, Gritty somehow manages to keep spirits high.

It would be a disservice not to mention the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts’ Mascot, Blue. He is definitely the most iconic mascot of the league. His over the top celebrations and dance battles with fans has a way of exciting the crowd in

between plays. Major league baseball team the Philadelphia Phillies’ mascot the Phillie Phanatic is yet another mascot that is beloved by fans and has many memorable moments.

But mascots are not just important at the professional level, college mascots also play a big part in fan culture. The University of California, Riverside’s very own mascot, Scotty the bear, is a prime example of just how important a mascot is. When Scotty is present, he represents the players on the team as well as the fans in the stands. He embodies school spirit and serves as a reminder of what it means to be a Highlander.

Mascots are a reminder that there is more to sports than just wins and losses. It’s about loyalty and community and in a time when teams can become completely unrecognizable, it is nice to see a familiar face even if it’s a costume.

The best ways to stay active this summer

FOUR SPORTS RELATED ACTIVITIES TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THE SUMMER SEASON.

With summer quickly approaching, now is a better time than ever to start thinking about easy ways to enjoy the warmer weather. These activities don’t need to involve expensive vacations, amusement parks or elaborate plans. Sometimes the best summer memories come from grabbing a few friends, heading outside and spending the day playing sports or games together.

No matter who you plan on spending your summer with, sports and outdoor activities are a simple way to stay active while making the most of the long days. From beach volleyball to swimming, these activities offer the perfect balance of competition, relaxation and quality time in the sun.

Beach volleyball is an old reliable option for the perfect mix of people. Whether you are there because of your competitive nature or simply looking for a relaxing day at the beach, volleyball provides the best of both worlds. The game is easy to pick up, allows for large groups and creates plenty of opportunities for laughter along the way.

One of the best parts about beach volleyball is that the activity extends beyond the game itself. Between matches, players can cool off in the water, enjoy a picnic or simply relax on the sand. Even if your team loses, spending a day by the ocean is hardly a bad consolation

prize.

If you’re looking for something that combines exercise with a little friendly competition, pickleball may be the perfect choice. The sport has exploded in popularity over the past few years and continues to attract players of all ages. With smaller courts and simple rules, it is easy for beginners to learn while still offering enough challenge to keep experienced players engaged.

Pickleball games are typically quick, allowing players to rotate in and out and keep the energy high throughout the day. Whether you’re playing doubles with friends or introducing family members to the sport for the first time, pickleball creates an environment that is both social and active.

For those looking to slow things down a bit, golf provides a great excuse to spend several hours outdoors. Golf allows players to enjoy beautiful weather, challenge themselves and spend time socializing between shots. While not everyone will be hitting perfect drives, that’s often part of the fun.

Whether you’re playing a full round at a local course or spending an evening at the driving range, golf offers a more laid back summer experience. It is the perfect activity for those who enjoy a little competition while still having plenty of time to talk and enjoy

the scenery.

Of course, no summer activity list would be complete without swimming. Whether it’s at the beach, a local pool or a nearby lake, swimming remains one of the most popular ways to beat the heat. It provides a refreshing break from rising temperatures while still offering plenty of opportunities for exercise.

Swimming is also one of the most versatile summer activities. You can race friends across the pool, play water games or simply float and enjoy the sunshine. No matter how you choose to spend your time in the water, swimming offers a fun and relaxing way to cool down during the hottest months of the year.

What makes these activities so perfect for summer is that they focus on creating shared experiences. You don’t have to be an expert athlete or spend a lot of money to have a memorable day. Sometimes all it takes is a ball, a pool and a few friends willing to spend time together outdoors.

At the end of the day, summer is all about making memories and enjoying the extra sunlight while it lasts. Whether you’re diving into a pool, serving a pickleball, spiking a volleyball or lining up a putt, these simple summer activities prove that the best days are often the ones spent outside.