UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, RIVERSIDE
The Highlander VOL. 75, ISSUE 3
For the week of Tuesday, October 13, 2026
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“I didn’t know what I wanted to do coming into college and high school. I felt like it was [going to be] something in healthcare. Growing up with a mom who was a doctor, I felt like that was something I had to do, even though it wasn’t forced down my neck. But after I got in, I got really interested in physical therapy.” “I’m in a music club here on campus called Hearts in Harmony. We basically come together as a band and perform songs at places like memory care facilities, senior centers and autism daycares. I’ve been playing guitar since middle school. I love music [and] The Beatles. I love “Let it Be” [and] “Rubber Soul.” I also like “Abbey Road” as well.” “I really want to get more involved [and do] more sports-related activities like table tennis and frisbee. I began swimming again. I also want to find more experience in what I want to do in my career in physical therapy. I did an internship this summer, but I want to get more experience.” “I went on a cruise to Cabo last summer, and what my brother and I did was just play ping pong. I grew up playing a bit. My dad taught me. [Coming back] a bit older now, I honestly kind of want to play more competitively and meet new people who can teach me how to play. “ “I like movies and TV shows. I just finished “Lanterns.” I feel like when I watch a movie or a show, I always just love to watch breakdowns and videos explaining things.”
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THE HIGHLANDER // highlandernews.org
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
29 Tuesday
2026 RISE/MARC Summer Research Poster Exhibit 7:30am to 12am Orbach Library, First Floor CareerFest 2026 11am to 3pm HUB (Highlander Union Building), 302 UTLF Ribbon Cutting 10am to 11am Undergraduate Teaching and Learning Facility (UTLF), Patio
Inland Empire Archives Fair 2026 10am to 2pm Rivera Library
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Upcoming Events
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Monday
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Latinxs & the Environment Seminar Fall 2026 11am to 12:30pm CHASS Interdisciplinary North, 3023 Jacqueline Avila, Haunting and Soundscapes in Pedro Páramo (Florence Bayz Music Series) 12pm to 12:50pm Arts Building, 157
Alaav (Health and Home) Film Screening and talkback with director Prabhash Chandra l 5pm to 7:30pm CHASS Interdisciplinary South, 1128 Tomás Rivera Conference 5pm to 8pm University Theatre
Pokeneko 12pm to 2pm HUB (Highlander Union Building), 355
12th Annual Sequencing to Success 9 am to 11 pm Campbell Hall, Genomics Auditorium Men’s Soccer vs Gonzaga 7pm UCR Soccer Stadium
Gardening for Butterflies 9am to 12pm Botanic Gardens
The Highlander Newspaper Writer’s Meeting 5:15 p.m. to 6 p.m. HUB 101
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NEWS
News
highlandernews.org/category/news
ASUCR
ASUCR Senate Meeting THE SENATE TABLED ALL SPECIAL ELECTIONS PENDING FURTHER OUTREACH. KASSANDRA AGUIRRE News Editor
On Oct. 7, the Associated Students of the University of California, Riverside (ASUCR) began their weekly Senate Meeting at 7:05 p.m., and adjourned at 8:06 p.m. A fire alarm went off throughout the Highlander Union Building around an hour prior to the meeting’s commencement, preventing ASUCR from hosting their routine pre-meeting. Alongside this, members of the public were let in at 7:11 p.m. during new business, a few minutes following the meeting’s commencement. The Office of the Elections Director Joanna Castro initiated special elections for the positions of School of Education (SOE) Senator, the Non-traditional Student Director and Transfer Student Director. Carlos Mercado, an undergraduate student, was the only candidate to speak for the SOE Senator position. In his speech Mercado discussed the importance of including disabled voices within student government and described using his own lived experience to support others, stating, “The reason I’m here is because I’m gonna fight against ableism.” The senate chose to abstain from selecting a SOE Senator, citing a failure to follow internal processes and reporting that form responses were not made available to the Senate prior to voting. Castro then announced that there was one qualifying candidate for the position of the Non-Traditional Student Director, however that individual was not present so they shifted into hearing candidates for
VASH CHEN
LANDER
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the position of the Transfer Student Director. First to speak was Athina Bush, a fourth year psychology major, who emphasized that transfer students commonly struggle to blend into campus life. She stated that if chosen for the position, she would use her prior experience working with the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Science first and chicano students programs to prioritize increasing awareness to transfer-specific resources — creating more opportunities tailored for transfer students and continually advocating for their needs, stating, “Being sure
that that is given to those incoming, for me, is essential.” Senators then heard an address from Doruk Dincer, a third year computer science major, who spoke about his experience migrating to the United States from Turkey in 2020 and learning to navigate UCR. He explained that his personal history resonated with transfer students due to their shared experience with needing to learn to navigate the university, stating, “I want to be the face they can actually reach out to and I will listen to them.” Following a nine minute closed
session the Senate moved to table the elections, citing issues with internal processes. They issued an apology to Bush and Dincer and applications for the positions of SOE senator, Non-Traditional Student Director and Transfer Student Director were extended until Oct. 11 at midnight. Castro then announced nominations for her committee’s polling coordinators, candidate officers and marketing officers, all of which were unanimously approved by the Senate.
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Care worker arrested for recording coworkers WILLIAMS CORONADO-MORALES ARRESTED FOR RECORDING COWORKERS IN THE BATHROOM WITHOUT CONSENT AT A LOCAL NURSING HOME. GIOVANNI LANDUCCI Contributing Writer
On Sept. 8, the Riverside Police Department (RPD) arrested 38 year old Williams CoronadoMorales for secretly recording his coworkers in the bathroom while working at the Riverwalk Post Acute facility — 4000 Harrison St. a local nursing home. An investigation into the incident began on July 9 after an unidentified employee discovered a concealed phone inside the private employee restroom. Detectives from the RPD’s sexual assault and child abuse unit were assigned to the case. Officers were then able to seize the device and begin to collect digital evidence in the form of recordings captured by the phone as well as go through the center’s surveillance footage. The investigation found that the device had been
used to record other members of the staff while inside the employee bathrooms without their consent. Although it has not been disclosed how long the phone had been in the restroom, police were able to identify seven different victims and are continuing to determine if there are others. Information regarding where Coronado-Morales is currently being held has not been publicly released, however the RPD stated that he has been booked and is now being charged with seven counts of invasion of privacy and is being held at a $5,000 bail. Police ask anyone with additional information on the case to call 951-353-7113 or email Jpayne@ RiversideCA.gov. ■H
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highlandernews.org/category/news
NEWS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
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Riverside County animal shelters verge on critically overcrowded status RCDAS STAFF EXPLAIN HOW THIS HAS AFFECTED SHELTER CONDITIONS AND THEIR EFFORTS TO SUPPORT THE ANIMALS. KASSANDRA AGUIRRE News Editor
The Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) has reported overcrowding in their four locations since before COVID-19. Despite efforts to curtail the congestion, the RCDAS reported that the summer months brought on an influx of animals, causing them to announce that they were at a “critically overcrowded” status. Although recent initiatives have begun to reduce that number, the RCDAS is continuing to strain their resources to support the animals currently under their care while avoiding the use of euthanasia. July saw a particularly sharp increase in intakes across the four RCDAS shelters including the Western Riverside City Animal Shelter, the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus, the Coachella Valley Animal Campus and the Blythe Animal Shelter due to the summer months having the highest birth rates for puppies and kittens. During this time there was a recorded rise in overcrowding from 216% capacity in dogs and 154% in cats across all RCDAS shelters at the beginning of June, to 241% in dogs and 173% in cats in mid July. The RCDAS has set the capacity threshold to be labeled as critically overcrowded at 220%. Although the rate has since decreased across the four locations to 217% overcapacity for dogs and 100% for cats as of Oct. 9, there remains a strain on space for residing animals. There are currently 1014 dogs being housed across the shelters’ 501 dog kennels and 242 cats being housed across the shelters’ 437 cat kennels, causing them to take measures such as housing three to four dogs in a kennel meant to hold two. RCDAS Assistant Director Kimberly Youngberg expanded on the current level
of congestion across the shelters, stating, “It’s really symptoms of different issues that are out there, you know, starting with what’s happening in our communities.” Youngberg also discussed that, with there currently being over 30,000 live animals impounded across the shelters, “Serving the population that we do is a big demand on our system.” The influx of animals being taken into
the demands, the concerns, the needs, of our pets and communities.” The “no-kill community” stipulation of the resolutions aims to reflect the will of the RCDAS and community to move away from the use of euthanasia. It doesn’t completely ban euthanasia but instead aims to limit its use and support a 90% overall live release rate. Youngberg addressed the use of euthanasia across RCDAS shelters by stating, “We always look at an animal as an individual,” and further adding that “We are trying to hold onto as many animals as we can and give them as much as we can before, you know, we say, have to make a euthanasia decision.” The Oct. 9 data demonstrated that the shelters had a 89.2% live release rate for dogs and 84.21% for cats, putting the shelters just below no kill status and reflecting the result of KASSY AGUIRRE / THE HIGHLANDER their efforts to balance the shelters is credited to the economic avoiding the use of euthanasia while struggles by pet owners, a lack of access to combatting continued overcrowding. spay and neutering services increasing the Public Information Officer Veronica birth of unwanted litters and emergencies Perez explained that through this or natural disasters displacing animals sustained period of overcrowding, the among others. All of the RCDAS shelters RCDAS shelters have been reaching are also open admissions shelter systems, out to local non-profit organizations and meaning they are required to accept all national partners to access grant funding animals brought to them. and investing in their outreach efforts. In May of 2025, the Riverside County Alongside this the shelters periodically Board of Supervisors passed the RivCo waive adoption fees to promote fostering Rise resolution to address the department’s and volunteering opportunities. Perez demand for further resources and emphasized that their goal is to maximize affirm a department-wide commitment positive outcomes for their animals and to becoming a no-kill community. It that communal support can uplift their effectively added 38 new positions efforts, stating, “[We have been] really department-wide and increased their seeing the investment, right, and seeing budget. Despite the additions, supervisor that the adoption rates are going up and and co-author of the resolution Yxstian that the word is getting out to pet owners Gutierrez stated “I do feel strongly that we and non pet-owners alike to support will need a larger budget when it comes RCDAS in whatever capacity they can, I ■ to animal services in order for us to meet think is huge.” H
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NEWS
highlandernews.org/category/news
Chancellor S. Jack Hu delivers keynote speech at Good Morning Riverside THE CHANCELLOR DISCUSSED HOW UCR AND RIVERSIDE’S BUSINESSES CAN PARTNER TO PROMOTE MUTUAL DEVELOPMENT. MICHAEL GOI Contributing Writer
On Oct. 8, the University of California, Riverside (UCR) Chancellor S. Jack Hu appeared as the keynote speaker at the Greater Riverside Chamber of Commerce’s (GRCC) monthly program, Good Morning Riverside (GMR) hosted at the Mission Inn. In his address, Hu discussed how the expansion of UCR Health and the university’s continued investment in research can benefit Riverside as a whole. GMR is a monthly program held by GRCC to brief local businesses on economic news, share updates on community and policy issues and provide networking opportunities for business and city leaders across Riverside. There were nine speakers prior to Chancellor Hu’s speech including UCR professor Amit K. RoyChowdhury, Riverside Arts Academy Artistic Director Adam Karelin-Andreson, Steering Committee Chair Raken Engles, Tesla Riverside Sales Supervisor Jesimein Jesus, The Raincross Gazette founder Justin Pardee, Phoenix Technology Chief Executive Officer Angel Sanchez Jr., Riverside Medical Clinic Charitable Foundation Executive Director Krystle Joseph, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar Operating Partner Dewayne Glass and Vice President of Advocacy and Programs Quirina Ramirez. In his presentation Chowdhury discussed the Riverside Artificial Intelligence ReSearch Education Institute, a department at UCR which is
currently exploring potential utilizations of artificial intelligence that can benefit UCR and local businesses stating, “This partnership can lead to working not only with our faculty and our students, but also having access to facilities that we have.”
Following this, Chancellor Hu expressed that UCR Health has the capacity to further support the local community by generating capital for the area and providing “[expansion] of both the health care workforce and access to When Chancellor Hu took the stage, he care.” One effort Chancellor Hu discussed opened his address by discussing UCR’s was the development of a specialty clinic recent developments. in Canyon Spring that is estimated to open for UCR students in May 2030. The new facility would pave the way towards establishing UCR Health as a prominent healthcare service in the Inland Empire. The Chancellor also noted that UCR is set to open the SoCal Oasis Park on University Avenue next spring, a research and innovation hub focused on clean technologies, agriculture and healthcare to connect UCR research with industry and community partners.
He announced that UCR remains number one in the nation for social mobility, which he related to a “dynasty,” while admitting the largest freshmen class in its history. He emphasized UCR’s investment into studies with the potential to support the Riverside community, such as research into multiple sclerosis and more efficient agricultural water use. He noted that UCR’s capacity to continue these efforts has grown, stating, “Over the last five years, our annual research expenditures have grown from about $190 million to more than $250 million.”
With this, Chancellor Hu asked the attending community members COURTESY OF UCR and businesses to partner with UCR researchers economically by hiring students to provide a direct workforce pathway, supporting entrepreneurship and innovation. He encouraged attendees to get culturally involved with UCR, stating,“Riverside is in our name, but we want you to see UC Riverside as your university.” ■ H
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NEWS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
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Governor Newsom signs new housing bills THE PACKAGE OF LEGISLATION INCLUDES TWO BILLS TO INCREASE STUDENT HOUSING IN CALIFORNIA. AASHIYANA KHALASI Contributing Writer
On Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a new set of bills regarding residential housing. The package was finalized during an announcement and signing event in San Francisco alongside Mayor Daniel Lurie and Assemblymember Matt Haney. The bills aim to combat homelessness and expand on recent housing progress by building more homes in existing communities, increasing the accessibility of home ownership and removing possible barriers to construction. Newsom signed over 30 housing bills as part of the package, most of which were focused on home ownership and addressing homelessness. However, he also signed off on several student housing bills which are designed to remove roadblocks for housing projects in higher education by exempting them from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and providing density bonuses for low income housing projects. These two actions allow builders to bypass regulations that could bar them from construction and provide incentives for them to accommodate lower income
residents. The new legislation contains several key components, including enforcing stronger deadlines for construction permits to ensure that new housing is approved without significant delays. There will be the establishment of a clear process to qualify and be approved for townhome ownership and a property-tax incentive for moderateincome renters to facilitate more affordable rental housing. California Assembly Bill 1732, which was introduced by Assemblymember David Alvarez, requires that eligible affordable housing projects be exempt from CEQA.. Among the projects included are public university and college housing projects, which are defined in the bill as “one or more housing facilities to be occupied by students, faculty or staff” on higher education campuses. This exemption would allow student housing projects to bypass the environmental regulations usually required and avoid potential lawsuits from opposers. California Assembly Bill 2480, which was introduced by Assemblymember
Avila Farias, builds upon the existing Density Bonus Law. The bill requires a city or county to grant a density bonus to developers who agree to construct 20% of the total units for lower income students in a student housing project. This allows the developer to build more housing units than are usually permitted in exchange for incorporating low income housing into their project. The enactment of these bills directly impacts the status of student housing in higher education, especially among University of California (UC), California State University and community college campuses throughout the state. CEQA has previously been used to block the construction of new housing, for example at UC Berkeley from 2022-2023, a new project called the People’s Park faced opposition from nearby neighbors who used the act’s requirements to sue the university. The bills would void opponents’ ability to use the act in this way to shut down the project. ■ H
Governor Newsom signs a series of AI guardrail bills THE LEGISLATION AIMS TO PROTECT WORKERS FROM AI SURVEILLANCE AND JOB REPLACEMENT. GIOVANNI LANDUCCI Contributing Writer
On Sept. 30, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a series of bills aimed to protect workers from abuse by employers through methods involving artificial intelligence (AI). The bills had been pushed by several California labor unions, including the California Federation of Labor Unions (CFLU), an organization representing 2.3 million union workers statewide., due to concerns of job loss and workplace abuse related to AI technology. CFLU President Lorena Gonzalez stated in a press release that the bills set a standard surrounding how AI should be regulated in the workplace and that, “California’s workers and our unions have changed the national narrative on how Americans can fight back and win against AI taking over our jobs and workplaces.” The bills Newsom signed included SB-947, or Employment: automated decision systems, SB-951 or Employment: technological displacement: notice, AB1331 or Workplace surveillance, AB-1883 or Workplace surveillance tools and AB-
1979 or Health care services: artificial intelligence. SB-947 prohibits employers from using AI to discipline or fire employees without human oversight and corroborating data. Alongside this, SB-951 mandates that employees be provided additional information regarding AI’s role in any layoffs. The law also directs California’s Employment Development Department to study the impact of AI on hiring decisions and the workforce. The bills come as numerous surveys have found that more than 80% of employers in the U.S. and nearly all fortune 500 companies use AI in their hiring processes. This also follows the occurrence of lawsuits surrounding AI models impacting workers and job seekers such as Meta being sued in July by 26 former employees who were fired while on medical or parental leave when the company used AI to determine the layoffs of over 8,000 employees. AB-1331 and AB-1883 are both designed to restrict employers from using
AI tools to monitor their employees. AB1331 prohibits AI tools from recording video and audio by flagging keywords said by employees related to performance, productivity and complaints. AB-1883 specifically addresses AI tools and makes it illegal for employers to use AI surveillance to infer the emotional state of a worker or collect their neural data. AB-1979 requires clinics, physician’s offices or an office of group practices to take steps to ensure licensed healthcare professionals remain the final decision makers in healthcare and clinical practices. The bill does not prohibit AI systems from being used for documentation and communication not involving professional judgment. The bills are set to take effect throughout California on Jan. 1, 2027. “AI should expand opportunity — not come at the expense of workers and families,” Newsom said in a statement, “As this technology reshapes the workplace, California is putting people at the center.” ■ H
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Opinions
OPINIONS
highlandernews.org/category/opinions
Why LA can’t elect its way to a mayor like Zohran Mamdani
AN INVIGORATING CANDIDATE CAN SOAR TO VICTORY ON ELECTION DAY, BUT HOLDING GOVERNMENT ORGANS AND AGENCIES ACCOUNTABLE MEANS BEING TRANSPARENT WITH VOTERS ABOUT THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS ALAN LOK Contributing Writer
LA City councilmember Nithya Raman’s rise to popularity and her challenge to incumbent Mayor Karen Bass has ignited comparisons to her New York City counterpart Mayor Zohran Mamdani. However, this comparison has important caveats: if elected, Raman would be leading a city where regional authority is largely divided among numerous city and county governments, rather than governing a city, like New York, with unified leadership under one mayor. Raman’s 2020 victory for her city council spot led to an increase in progressive candidates, shifting LA’s city council more towards the left. Both Raman and Mamdani originally rose to fame through the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) roots and have similar listings on their agenda of priorities: housing affordability, pro-tenant support, and safeguards against evictions. Mamdani’s campaign hinged on a comprehensive affordability agenda, which includes protenant safeguards against eviction like rent freezes, free bus rides, city-run grocery stores and universal healthcare—items the Los Angeles DSA figures have touted as a roadmap for the city as LA residents suffer from similar housing and affordability crises. Raman has led and supported crucial pro-renter protection and housing policies, and her progressive campaign has garnered significant support from young voters similar to Mamdani’s. A poll conducted in September discovered that 66% of likely voters aged 18-29 favoured Raman as opposed to 4% for incumbent Mayor Bass, although noting that this doesn’t mean her voters would want a Zohran Mamdani copy. These nuances make Raman’s mayoral campaign a litmus test of whether LA would want an affordability-centered agenda. However, mere campaign attractiveness doesn’t guarantee the same governance. Raman’s agenda simultaneously demonstrates her ambition and potential influence as mayor, and where her power
becomes limited. Her agenda includes redirecting spending from pricey motel installations to shared living spaces and rental vouchers, which would result in greater city autonomy over housing and homelessness contracts. Collaboration with county governments would be crucial as LA County healthcare and social services would remain outside of Raman’s scope. Mayor Mamdani’s governance faces different obstacles. NYC’s mayor appoints and oversees the Rent Guidelines Board, which greenlights Mamdani’s promises of rent freezes; however, delivering on his promise of free buses becomes tricky as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is a state-managed agency where ultimate authority lies with the governor. Both agendas rely on collaboration with institutions outside their scope as mayor, so limits vary.
and response across city-county lines are essential. The need for better coordination was further exemplified in September, when the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), decided to not resume its many regional rules and renew another term. This includes measuring the annual homeless population and working with the federal government regarding funding. As the city and county scramble for what the future holds, LAHSA issued a statement warning that disunity “would only fracture regional collaboration during an already complex time.”
Raman’s mayoral candidacy may create hope for people who want a drastic change of scenery in housing and homelessness; something Mamdani has vowed to do. But we should caution ourselves before labelling her as “LA’s Mamdani” as that implies Budgeting differences also reflect the Raman would be similar to Mamdani and varying scales of the cities. New York the power he wields. City’s population was approximately 8.58 million residents in July 2025, compared This also doesn’t imply LA’s mayor is to Los Angeles’ population of 3.87 million. totally powerless or that divided jurisdiction For the 2027 fiscal year, New York City had is always negative. Joint efforts can provide a budget of $125.8 billion; Los Angeles sits checks on power and shield communities at a mere $14.85 billion budget. However, from decisions led by a single office. For budget allowance overall is not an indicator example, the New York City Council works of success. New York City’s budget includes in conjunction with the Mayor’s office to funding for education, social services and approve its budget. The real issue comes other government functions across the five when unified accountability becomes a boroughs, which fall outside the jurisdiction blurry responsibility. Constituents don’t of the City of Los Angeles. know which authorities to rely on regarding issues such as homelessness and public Inside Safe— a program that provides health. temporary housing for individuals living in tents and street encampments before Future candidates for the LA mayor’s transitioning into a permanent residence— office should articulate in detail which was launched in 2022 under the direction proposals fall in their scope and can pass of Mayor Karen Bass. A city report in through city government and which require 2023 discovered duplicate placements and city-county cooperation. For collaborative inaccurate records, making it harder to projects, agencies involved should be audit details and follow up with Inside Safe highlighted, and funding should be laid participants who left the program. These out clearly. Ultimately, having a concise issues are not definitive evidence that implementation blueprint takes priority divided authority resulted in the negligence over trying to expand the jurisdiction of of people and their services, but rather LA’s mayor. ■ demonstrates why reliable coordination H
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OPINIONS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
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Tóxicas are a result of what patriarchal cycles do to women YOUNG LATINAS ARE FORCED TO ENDURE NEGATIVE STEREOTYPES WITHIN RELATIONSHIPS THAT ARE IMPOSED ON THEM. ABIGAIL ORTIZ Assistant Radar Editor
Latina women are characterized as spicy, toxic and jealous. But why is that characterization so normalized? The stereotype of a “tȯxica” Latina girlfriend is something that many young men strive for because it makes them feel desired and wanted. This stereotype is harmful to women who had the luck of being born to Latino parents.
Additionally, Latina women are constantly sexualized and fetishised because of their body types. This sexualization is constantly seen in movies and television and usually goes hand-in-hand with the tóxica stereotype, which reduces Latina women to just their physical appearance and their possessiveness over their partner. Gloria Pritchett from the popular show “Modern Family.” Although Gloria had a loving husband, she was written to be loud, sexy and her body was a constant point of commentary throughout the show. Gloria being written down into a stereotype waters down her character into the sexy second wife to an older white man.
The tóxcia girlfriend stereotype is an online phenomenon that had a surge in popularity earlier this year due to the release of the Curry Baker film “Obsession.” Nikki, played by Mexican actress Inde Navarette, is controlled by a wish her friend, Bear, made so that she becomes obsessed with him and only him. The film touches on topics such One way to fix this issue, on an individual as lack of consent, loss of agency and male level, is to stop the usage of the word entitlement over their partner. “toxica” online and the romanticization of controlling behavior in romantic Throughout the film, Nikki attacks, relationships. A larger-scale solution would isolates and wants complete control over be to break the patriarchal cycles that have Bear because of the wish he made. Whenever been embedded into Latino society for Bear is with his friends, Nikki finds a way hundreds of years. to interrupt and have Bear’s attention all to herself. Her desire for Bear leads to a series The origin of the tóxica stereotype stems of volatile and violent events, bringing from the mistreatment many Latina wives harm to everyone involved. endure from their husbands. In Latino communities, many husbands proudly Commentary that “Obsession” is just strive to be labeled as “machistas,” which, a film about being in a relationship with according to the Cambridge Dictionary, a Latina sparked online after its rise in means “a man who believes that women popularity. Considering that the film are inferior to men.” The dynamic of a focuses on a woman’s loss of autonomy and machista husband and a tóxica wife allows free will, drawing comparisons between husbands to abuse their wives emotionally the two not only reinforces the negative and physically, fosters distrust and creates stereotype but implies that both parties fall a degrading married life for their wives prey to an obsessive nature outside of their because they are seen as “less than” their control. husbands. Due to the mistreatment by their husbands, many women in turn become This stereotype creates a harmful jealous, angry and toxic. narrative of what it is like to have a Latina partner and imposes false expectations Young Latinos must learn that they do onto young women looking for a romantic not have to follow the machista way of relationship. It isn’t fair to have these ideas living that has been instilled in them from thrust upon young women who all have a young age. When they follow machista different personality types and are unique ideals, they re-enforce the false idea that just individuals with different ideas of love because they are men, they have complete and how they would navigate a romantic authority over women. Young Latinas have relationship. to realize that they are more than just the toxic stereotypes imposed upon them
and that they do not have to accept being treated as angry accessories to men just because society casts them in that role. It is important for Latinas to know this because if they don’t, it could lead to them accepting a relationship that can harm them. The roles of a machista and a tóxica are a way for backwards patriarchal cycles to continue in the Latino community, which keeps future generations of Latinos and Latinas stuck in a toxic loop of what they think love has to be. Latin American culture and communities are beautiful and the traditions carried down generationally are something that should be sacred and always remembered. Healthy and romantic relationships can include finding comfort in someone with similar experiences, bonding over traditional meals and even finding another family to call one’s own. While the culture is beautiful, there is work to be done to break down societal norms that are perpetuated by the young Latin American community, and doing so could allow for a future that does not instill patriarchal ideals into women and men alike. This can lead to an abundance of happiness, love and community. Latinas are not an object or something to be desired. They are women with individual traits, personalities and qualities that are unique to themselves. One Latina is not like the other and negative stereotypes such as being “toxicas” and the sexualization of their bodies create a dangerous society for them to feel welcome in. ■ H
10 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
Features
FEATURES
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Horoscopes Constellation weather forecast WEATHER IS COMING! ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR SPIRITUAL WEATHER UPDATE?
MARIA MARTINEZ Contributing Writer
Aries (March 21–April 19): Sunny
You’re healing and gaining the rest you need. Warm weather is the perfect symbol for growth and recovery.
Taurus (April 20–May 20): Rain and Thunderstorm
Your conflicts with someone or something aren’t healthy to keep in your heart. End the conflict so you both don’t end up resenting each other.
Cancer (June 21–July 22): Windy
You have the idea, but now comes the plan! With careful planning and focus, whatever you are working on right now will turn out great.
Leo (July 23–Aug. 22):
Gemini (May 21–June 20): Cloudy
You aren’t sure what you want yet in life, but you’re scared to try new things. Don’t let your fear cloud your curiosity.
Virgo (Aug. 23–Sept. 22):
Tornado
Rainbow and Sunshine
You’re carrying too much right now. Give yourself credit for how hard you’re working while also reminding yourself to rest.
Libra (Sept. 23–Oct. 22):
Scorpio (Oct. 23–Nov. 21):
Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21):
Fog
Snowy
Your work may seem pointless right now. But don’t give up! You may not see it but your progress is steady to success. Keep it up!
Capricorn (Dec. 22–Jan. 19): Flood
Change is coming, or it’s already here and it can be scary. Let things play out and the storm will pass with greater opportunities ahead.
The power of creativity and instinct is driving you to greatness! Your week will be filled with good luck, don’t waste it!
You’re starting to isolate yourself from others. Let yourself be here and connected to. Don’t give up on building friendships, all will happen in its due time.
Aquarius (Jan. 20–Feb. 18): Partly Cloudy
You have goals and your potential is present but greed or impatience can blind your good judgment. Breathe and take things slow, going too fast can lead to unwise decisions.
Light Rain
You’re going through obstacles right now, but don’t let that stop you. You will overcome any difficulties in your path and reach your goal.
Pisces (Feb. 19–March 20): Stormy
Things are hard right now, but don’t be discouraged. Give yourself grace, and know that you have the power to get back up and try again.
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FEATURES
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
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Café Oro Dos Aztecas
CULTURE AND COFFEE IN DOWNTOWN RIVERSIDE. MALINI JOSEPH Features Editor MALINI JOSEPH / THE HIGHLANDER
Coffee can be sweet, but it tastes even sweeter knowing the love and culture that is poured into every cup. Café Oro Dos Aztecas is a coffee shop located in downtown Riverside that proudly displays its Mexican culture. Located next to the Downtown Riverside Mural, Café Oro has bright open windows that lets in the perfect amount of studying light. You never feel suffocated even if the physical size of the shop is a little smaller. As you step through the doors, you’ll pass an aesthetic seating area perfect for taking pictures or romanticizing the immense amount of work you need to complete. Finally, you’ll reach your destination to obtain the life-giving caffeine: the register. Café Oro boasts many incredible drinks from coffee to matcha. The names of their specials are cleverly in line with the theme of the cafe’s name: The Spear, Oro de Mexico and The Jaguar. I didn’t end up getting one of the specials. Instead, I tried their Lavender Honey Latte.
Lavender Honey Latte Price: $8.50 Rating: 4/5
The lavender honey latte was enough to provide respite from the blistering heat. It was a delicious combination of sweet and refreshing that I couldn’t help but chugging it immediately. It only gets a point off in the review, not because of anything to do with the construction, but more my discovery that I don’t prefer florals in coffee. Once you finish ordering, your attention is directed to the community board where Café Oro sponsors many events and businesses within the Riverside community. Every so often, local businesses are welcomed into the cafe to sell their wares, Latin musicians playing the rooftop down. Your eyes drift further down the walls and see the gorgeous artwork made by Latin artists. Every piece seems to illuminate a different aspect of the heart of Mexican culture. I could feel the love and passion poured into every ounce of the cafe. Whenever you are in downtown Riverside next, make sure to visit Café Oro Dos Aztecas. If all I have said above wasn’t enough of an incentive, they have also partnered with the Revela Photo Booth. Come take pictures and create memories that will last a lifetime. ■H
Features fiction DIOS TE BENDIGA.
ANGELICA BRIANNA ACOSTA Editor-in-Chief
The laughter of my cousins filled the air. Their giggles carried from ear to ear, drowning out the morbid sobs that filled the space only a month ago. I’m standing in the same place I was before as I held my little sister, painting a vision of a bright blue sky and field—and —fields of green grass, filled with wild horses. The rancho my papa always wanted to return to, and never could.
chair in the living room watching the door, ferent than the pang in my chest. It’s early waiting for me to leave or come home. November and there is a cool breeze, but also a familiar warmth. A warmth that wraps “Que dios te bendiga mija,” he would say. around me as if it’s trying to tell me someHe had this tone when he said it. A tone that thing. I look over at my family Ofrenda, it’s brought warmth and love, a warmth that only much larger than the one at home. My tio my papa could bring. I never noticed the Frank was there, my tia Philo and Blanca, warmth before. even my old family pet Blue. My papa was also there, at the very top, his hat half covI used to look at him annoyed. Even when ering his face in the photo, it was the only Now my sister is standing beside me I was just going to the mailbox, he would al- one where he was somewhat smiling. For the laughing with my tio Chava, as he tells a ways say “Que dios te bendiga Mija,” like it first time I didn’t feel the familiar grief that story about my papa. An orange glow flick- was the last time he was going to see me. comes with loss, instead I felt relief. ered in her eyes, the familiar color and smell of Marigolds floated around from person to Now he sat there surrounded by the orWhen I got home that night I let my family person. ange glow of my grandma’s candles. He sat go in first, rambunctious and loud as always. next to my Mama Trini, his wife, the woman They passed the Ofrenda and the empty arm This morning I looked at my family’s he could never forget. My grandma brought chair without a glance. I lingered behind Ofrenda and a strange tug pulled at my chest. pieces of his favorite cookies and a bottle walking to my papa’s old chair. I didn’t sit in I forgot to change out my Tia Philos candy. cap, any bottle cap he liked to collect them. it, I didn’t dare, but I let my hand glide over My papa used to reprimand me when I for- He still watched me leave, still was waiting where my papa would rest his head. got. He would say she hated it when the when I came back, but she wouldn’t say the candy got stale.He would force me to apolo- words anymore. Now every time I walk out Then I walked to the Ofrenda, blowing out gize. I don’t think she really cares anymore. the door I felt like something was missing, all the candles until I got to his, “Dios te benlike I had forgotten an important task. diga papa,” I whispered before finally blow■ Now my Ofrenda was different, my house ing out the last candle. was different. Papa wasn’t sitting on the arm Standing here now I feel something dif-
ORANGE ST
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12 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
FEATURES
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NORM’S NOOK SPOTLIGHT The Humanities and Social Sciences courtyard
ALEXANDER WONG/THE HIGHLANDER
MALINI JOSEPH Feature Editor
Far from the center of campus and tucked neatly into a corner, the Humanities and Social Sciences (HMNSS) building is the home base for, well, the humanities departments. It can be difficult to navigate with all those departments in one place. Thankfully, there is a luscious courtyard that gives you the space to breathe. Filled with orange
trees and numerous benches, this open area is perfect for studying outside or even hiding from the world. Grab a drink from Hinderaker Hall and enjoy the sanctuary this courtyard provides. It is one of my favorite resets when the world feels a little too intense.
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HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
HALEY KLEIN / THE HIGHLANDER
By Kirti Sheelam, Staff Writer
ANSWERS
(DON’T PEEK!) ACROSS 1. Nanny ____ (surveillance devices) 5. With _____ breath: tensely anticipatory 10. Machu Picchu’s country 14. Latin plural noun for wings 15. Guac-_____ 16.Synonym for “lively” from Turkish origins 17. Part 18. Ice cream holders 19. Largest Caribbean island 20. Where San Juan is 22. Central Asia’s ___ Sea
23. ___ and outs 24. Solitary sorts 26. Zoological classification 30. Noggin 32. As _ _____ resort 33. The quetzal is its national bird 38. Major conflicts 39. French noble 40. Cockeyed 41. Managua’s country 43. Gawk 44. “Exodus” author 45. Predicaments 46. Safe and sound 50. Damage 51. Oom-___ (tuba sounds)
Willy Wonka characters 52. Smallest Central American country 59. India.___ Simpson 60. Mexican president Enrique Peña ___ 61. The Tonight Show with Jay 62. “To Live and Die ___” 63. Muslim prince 64. “You are” in Spanish 65. Dundee denials 66. Home _____ 67. Sail the seven ____ DOWN 1. Generic name for certain freshwater fish
2. Famous Dominican Republic baseball family name 3. Y chromosome carrier 4. Oracle 5. Related to pork 6. Latin loves 7. Author of “Beloved” 8. Util. bill 9. Uninhabited 10. State tree of Texas 11. To harden 12. Concrete-reinforcing rod 13. Eurasian mountain range 21. Lean 25. “___ to Joy”
26. Baby deer 27. Kyrgyzstan’s ___ Mountains 28. Designer ____ Jacobs 29. “Barbie” actress ____ Rae 30. Organic fertilizer 31. “I could ___ _ horse!” 33. “The Wayward Wind” singer ____ Grant 34. Yoga surfaces 35. “Woe is me!” 36. Traditional knowledge 37. “Planet of the ____” 39. Swerved wildly 42. 1920 science fiction play (acronym) 43. Part of USPS: Abbr.
45. Trendy Chicago liquor referred to as a rite of passage 46. 1982 World Cup site 47. ____ _ living 48. Argentina neighbor 49. Instructions: “___ __ directed” 50. San _____: San Francisco Bay city 53. Margarita garnish 54. Ooze 55. Pub orders 56. “Wot’s dat over ____?” 57. ___ _ day keeps the doctor away 58. One of the friends on “Friends”
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FEATURES
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Vanilla crème brûlée Allison Fry, Advertising Representative A comforting dessert to make for your friends! Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Place four ramekins in a baking dish. 2. Heat the cream, then add cream and split vanilla bean (or extract) to a saucepan. 3. Warm over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes. 4. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, ½ cup sugar and a pinch of salt until pale and slightly thickened. 5. Slowly pour warm cream into the yolks while whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. 6. Pour the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove bubbles as well as vanilla pod fibers. 7. Divide the custard evenly into the ramekins. 8. Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins, then bake for 30 to 40 minutes, until the edges are set but the center jiggles slightly. 9. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least two hours, preferably for four. 10. Sprinkle a thin even layer of granulated sugar over each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize until deep amber and ■H glassy. You can broil on top ofH the oven as ■ well. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 1 hour cook, 2 hour cool Servings: 4 COURTESY OF FLICKER
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TEST YOURSELF! What fall themed pastry are you?
Take this quiz to find ouT! By: Jazzy Nguyen, Opinions Editor 1. What’s your favorite way to listen to music? A. Walkman/Ipod B. Spotify/Apple Music C. Vinyl record D. YouTube, so you can watch the music video, too
Ingredients:
• • • • •
2 cups heavy cream 1 vanilla bean (or 1 - 1½ tsp vanilla extract) 5 large egg yolks ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping) Pinch of salt
2. Which book are you reading performatively? A. The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath B. Atomic Habits by James Clear C. Meditations by Marcus Aurelius D. Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte 3. What’s your favorite Fall event? A. The weather cooling into the season for sweaters and henleys B. People starting to spread lies about finding razors and drugs in Halloween candy C. Baking season! …and adding cinnamon into everything D. Pumpkin patches opening and carving pumpkins 4. What kind of Trick or Treater are you? A. When the house leaves the bowl out, you actually just take one B. A tricker, TPing and silly string galore; you’re just stealing the bowl when you come C. Politely knock, wait for the door, smile and say trick or treat, and collect your candy D. You planned out the route; you know where the king-sized candy is and where the best decorated houses are
SUDOKU
DIFFICULTY: MEDIUM
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
answer key
MAIN ST
If you got “A” the most, you most resemble Pumpkin Spice Matcha Creme Brulee. Do I even need to say it? Performative. You love the vibe of the 70s and the buzzwords of the 21st century. Whether that’s good quality clothes from the pre-fast fashion era or ceremonial grade matcha that can now make it overseas, you keep up with the best and most popular of any decade.
ORANGE ST
If you got “B” the most, you most resemble Apple Cider Donuts. So, sugar, basically. Sweet and slightly inventive, apple cider donuts are the best gateway into true fall spirit. You’re young at heart and do make an effort to grow up, but it’s a work in progress. This is your season of branching out and growing, but still remembering your inner child-like fun! If you got “C” the most, you most resemble Apple Butter Scone. You’re old. Or an old soul, I guess. You love a cozy vibe —-you’re huddled under the fluffiest blankets with a warm-cinnamon spiced drink with smooth jazz or bosa nova. You would be sure to have the mood set the moment the sun starts to set. In the morning, you have the perfect fall candle lit and enjoy your scone with a fall drink as well. If you got “D” the most, you most resemble Pumpkin Pie. Fall is your favorite season, Halloween is the holiday of the year, and you hate that people skip it to go straight to Christmas. You love the classics — some might call it basic but you know what you like, and you like what works.
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14 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
FEATURES
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Remember the shelters OVERCAPACITY IN ANIMAL SHELTERS AND THE PROGRAMS THAT HELP REDUCE THE BURDEN. MALINI JOSEPH Features Editor
The Problem
Increasingly, more and more animals are being brought into shelters with fewer and fewer people adopting pets. As a result, these shelters have reached critical overcapacity and are at risk of not having enough resources to take care of the animals they already house. We at The Highlander spoke with a couple members of the Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) at their shelter in Jurupa Valley to learn a little more about this heartbreaking issue. “We’re actually one of the largest animal sheltering organizations in the whole nation,” Assistant Director Kimberly Youngberg stated in an interview with The Highlander. “We have upwards of more than 30,000 live animals that we impound in our four shelters countywide.” As a result, RCDAS has been struggling to keep MALINI JOSEPH / THE HIGHLANDER
up with the demands of sheltering all their animals. Even still, they are costantly finding new ways to ease the burden and making it easier for their community. Public Information Officer (PIO) Veronica Perez adds that RCDAS is always asking themselves “how we, as a department, can be a resource to pet owners and be a resource to people who are maybe looking to bring a new family member into their home.”
The Programs
To help animals find a more permanent outcome, the shelter has “really invested in programming to include enhancing our adoption, our foster, our pet enrichment and pet support programs.” Speaking of, here are some of the programs the Riverside County shelters offer to make aid more accessible.
Volunteering
Go to rcdas.org to sign up for volunteering! You get a brief orientation and training day and then you’re free to start your volunteering hours. Volunteering can be anything from hands-on interactions with the animals to digital volunteering where you help promote the adoptability of the animals in the shelters. For more information, definitely go in person and talk with a staff member!
Fostering
You are able to foster dogs and cats as well as puppies and kittens that aren’t adoptable yet since they are less than 8 weeks old. Fostering is usually only for a couple weeks at a time and supplies are provided. You become something like an adoption ambassador for the pet you’re fostering. You post the animal’s adoption availability and personality on social media as well as pitch the animals to family, friends and people you meet around town. All this networking goes to ensuring that your foster friend finds a warm, loving home. If you are interested in helping the animals in this way, definitely go in person and talk with a staff member! RCDAS’s different fostering programs are extensive and flexible, perfect for nearly every kind of lifestyle. For more information on the different ways to foster, visit their website: rcdas.org/foster.
Ironwood
The Ironwood Dog Program started in December 2025 and is a partnership with Ironwood State Prison. Dogs that have been at shelter for 30 days or longer participate in the program. During their time at Ironwood, a dog will stay with an incarcerated person
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who is their handler and caregiver. The dogs become more accustomed to a daily schedule, learn how to walk on leash properly and are even taught tricks that they’ll carry with them. This program allows dogs to get the attention they need to thrive as well as space away from the kennel. Furthermore, the incarcerated participants are able to pour their energy into a dog, which helps make rehabilitation easier. All dogs that participate in this program are available for adoption. In fact, this program helps dogs become adoption ready through regular social interaction and training. “Over 150 dogs have participated in the program,” Perez told The Highlander, “and over 80 have either been adopted or rescued” since the start of the program. “This is huge, especially for our large dogs that tend to wait longer in our shelters.”
Dog Day Out
Dog Day Out is a one-day fostering opportunity where you take a dog out on a field trip for a day.
“It’s almost like checking out a dog from the shelter like you would a book from the library” Youngberg
jokes. Before you participate in the program, you fill out a quick form where they match a dog with you based on your desired energy levels. When you participate in the program, you are given a backpack that has toys, a water bowl along with a refillable bottle, a list of activities to do/places to go and quick information about the dog so that if people ask about adopting them, you’re able to do a
FEATURES
quick elevator pitch. Your dog is also given a bright yellow “Adopt Me!” vest to catch people’s eyes quickly. For those worried that taking a dog out for only one day seems needlessly cruel or generates false hope for the pup, that is not the case at all. Youngberg reassures that this program has proved “that it reduces [the dogs’] stress and helps make them more adoption ready.” In fact, as Perez puts it, “Taking them out for a day not only provides them that enrichment where they’re able to take a break from the kennel and just be a dog, it also helps us get information about that animal” that can be later used to promote their adoptability. The program allows for the shelters to get notes on any behaviors the dogs may not showcase in the shelter such as interest in ducks, how good they are with other people and how they ride in cars. In fact, one dog named Athena got adopted as a result of this program. Perez recounts, “One of the staff members [of Three Dog Bakery] fell in love with Athena, came to the shelter that same day and adopted her.” A few employees of The Highlander got to participate in the incredible program. The Editor-In-Chief, Angelica Brianna Acosta, the News Editor, Kassandra Aguirre and the Features Editor, Malini Joseph, took out a beautiful two-year-old Belgian Malinois mix named Rambo. He was a curious and adventurous puppy. He was also super affectionate, seeking any opportunity to receive pets or lay on top of people. He loved to stick his head outside the window, enjoying the hot Riverside air. They took him to get a free hamburger patty from Smoke & Fire Social Eatery, to the park to run around and roll in the grass and even to get a pup cup from Dutch Bros, which he was very excited about. When it was time to drive back to the shelter, Rambo enjoyed a nap with the air conditioning blasting.
Trunk or Treat
Trunk or Treat is RCDAS’s Halloween themed event that invites the community to meet adoptable pets as well as learn more about how to support shelters, either through
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
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fostering, volunteering or even donating if not through adoption. This event also offers fee-waived adoptions for their duration. Their first Trunk or Treat was on Oct. 9 at the Jurupa Valley shelter. Don’t worry if you think you’ve missed the event. RCDAS is also doing this event on Oct. 16 at their San Jacinto location and Oct. 23 at their Coachella Valley location. Each of these events are on a Friday from 2-6 p.m. The critical overcrowding of shelters is heartbreaking for the animals and everyone who works at RCDAS. The shelters are always finding ways to make adoption and the necessary services such as spaying, neutering and vaccinations accessible to Riverside County, but they still need your help.
Youngberg pleads, “always think about the shelter and adoption when you’re looking to add a new pet to your home”
as Perez reminds that “every adoption includes spay and neuter surgery, a microchip, the ageappropriate vaccinations and an engraved ID tag.” Even if adoption isn’t possible, donations and even the smallest time spent fostering can be enough to chip away at the weight of the shelters’ overcapacity. ■ H
16 TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
FEATURES
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Ted Talk: The difference between cute, hot, sexy, beautiful, pretty, gorgeous and all of the above BRINGING BACK FLIRTATIOUS LITERACY. SOPHIA UCROS Contributing Writer
“You’re bad!” Do I look like a dog to you? Or a child that needs reprimanding? For too long the word has been associated with how attractive a woman is when words like beautiful and gorgeous exist. Here’s the thing, Highlanders, the art of a good compliment has been lost over the years. Don’t worry though, I’m here to bring back terms of attraction for the sake of flirtation, admiration and communication. Let’s settle it now in the big 2026: what is the difference between cute, hot, sexy, beautiful, pretty and gorgeous; and can you be all of them at once? Cute Being cute is for the ones who, when you look at them, your heartstrings tug a little. They could be smiley and bubbly or even quiet and reserved. It’s not necessarily about having a specific look, but more about being naturally endearing. Maybe it’s their smile, the way they talk or a random mannerism that you can’t help but notice only they do. Cute is the kind of attraction that makes you think, “I just want to be around you.” The feeling overall is a warm one. Pretty This is the safe choice of compliments. You really can’t go wrong with calling someone pretty. It’s the go-to compliment, especially when first meeting someone. Maybe it’s a bit general and a little unoriginal, but hey, it will still get someone blushing. Pretty gets the job done.
Hot Hot is for the ones who get that second, possibly third, look as they walk by. You could know absolutely nothing about them as a person, but something about them catches your attention. Maybe it’s the outfit or even just their facial expression. There really doesn’t need to be some deep explanation for this one. You saw them and had to do a double take. The look alone says it all.
best ways you can go. This one is my personal favorite. Gorgeous Now gorgeous is the jaw-dropper or head turner type of attraction. Gorgeous grabs your attention without even necessarily trying to. It’s when beautiful or pretty just doesn’t feel dramatic enough for the situation. Sometimes there’s nothing else to say besides: wow.
Sexy Sexy isn’t necessarily about the looks, it’s all about the vibe. It comes with confidence, a presence that lingers like a perfume when you walk by. It’s not only confidence in looks, it’s the talk, the walk and just the way that you carry yourself overall. You can put together the perfect outfit and look amazing, but sexy? Sexy is a mindset and people can see it pouring off of you.
All of the above Now here’s the thing: none of these are exclusive. Someone can be cute when they laugh, pretty when they catch your eye, hot when they walk into a room, sexy when they’re feeling confident, beautiful when you really take the time to notice them and gorgeous when they leave you speechless. Even the people who may not see themselves as beautiful, sexy or any of the above can give off these feelings without even Beautiful realizing it. Attraction changes with the person, Beautiful is where things get a bit more moment and obviously whoever is looking. personal. Of course someone can be beautiful on the outside, but there’s something about So, Highlanders, now you have a new set of this compliment that goes beyond just being vocabulary at your disposal. Cute, pretty, hot, attracted to someone. Maybe it’s their smile, sexy, beautiful and gorgeous. Take your pick. their personality, the way they treat people or a For the sake of flirtatious literacy, I am begging mixture of all of it. Calling someone beautiful you. Please stop limiting your compliments and feels like you actually took a second to notice raise the bar. ■H the person behind the visual. It’s a combination of the entirety of who they are as a person. Calling someone beautiful is probably one of the
RISE/MARC research posters on display at Orbach library A SUMMER OF SCIENCE SHOWCASED BY UCR FACULTIES, UNDERGRADUATES AND LIBRARY.
EMMA LI Contributing Writer
The yearly Research In Science & Engineering (RISE) and Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) Research Program’s poster exhibition is taking place at Orbach Library on the first floor from Sept. 21 through Oct. 28, 2026.. Students are encouraged to leave star beads as kudos for the research teams. RISE has been co-hosting research initiatives with MARC since 2010. Undergraduate students pair up with faculty members and practice original hands-on projects during the ten weeks period. Their goal is to enhance students’ research and literacy skills, as well as creating a deeper connection between the students and the University of California, Riverside (UCR). In 2026, 44 projects were launched and researched upon by around 100 undergraduate researchers, corresponding posters printed and put up inside Orbach Library’s first floor. The UCR library welcomes all to gather and celebrate the incredible feats from our classmates and faculty members. Topics involving chemistry, entomology, plant biology, biology, neuroscience, environmental science and physics are featured in the projects.
One of the exciting findings about our brain is done by Giana Souza, Thapa R, Shah M, Pettijohn E and Ethell M. According to the abstract document provided by the UCR library, in their research “Astrocyte-specific FMR1 Deletion Affects Locomotor Activity and Spatial Memory,” they focused on a commonly inherited genetic disorder called Fragile X Syndrome (FXS). This intellectual disorder affects both sexes and has no cure. Their team dove into this topic and investigated the region of the brain called hippocampus on 37 mice. After injections and alterations that induced astrocyte-specific deletion of the FMR1 genes, the mice were assessed with their locomotor and exploratory behaviors. While some researchers looked inwards at the complexities of the human brain, some turned their attention outwards to the Earth. A research titled “Modified Climate Model Stimulates Antarctic Sea Ice Expansion, Resembling Observation,” performed by Kevin De Ruig and Dr. Wei Liu evaluated historical climate forcing and ice forcing stimulations. After
rounds of experiments, they found out that these stimulations lack the accuracy of global climate patterns. Their abstract concluded, “modifying other mechanisms and processes are required to successfully stimulate and explain the effects of Antarctic sea ice expansion.” In an article published by the UCR College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, several faculty members and student researchers shared their views and participation on the RISE/MARC research program. RISE assistant coordinator, Amanda Arrieta, said RISE is a program “designed for undergraduate students who may not yet have research experience,” and that it “provides an opportunity to begin developing these skills.” In the very same article, student researcher Jianna Parada’s experience echoed Arrieta’s words. Parada was an undergraduate with no experience in research. However, after being a part of RISE for ten weeks, Parada left with newfound confidence in her potential as she entered her third year of Environmental ■H Engineering journey at UCR.
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Radar
RADAR
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
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Diversify your reading list BOOKS BY HISPANIC AUTHORS THAT SHOULD BE ON YOUR READING LIST. ANGELICA BRIANNA ACOSTA Editor-in-Chief
“I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” Erika L. Sanchez
“In the Time of Butterflies” by “The House on Mango Street” by Julia Alvarez Sandra Cisneros
“I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” deals with themes of grief, Cisneros said it best, “Writing is loss and cultural pressure. After Julia’s like sewing together what I call these older sister tragically dies Julia is left ‘buttons,’ these bits and pieces.” The grieving her, but also — resenting her. House on Mango Street strings together a Julia struggles with her own grief as series of smaller, more intimate moments she is left to also deal with her entire to create a larger narrative. Cisneros’ family grief and the comparisons she expert use of language and vivid imagery makes between her and her late sister. encapsulate what it means to be a young Sanchez tells a story that many hispanic Hispanic woman in America. Cisneros daughters can relate to as they grapple takes bits and pieces of life and turns with the who they are and what their them into a true celebration of culture, highlighting the good and the bad. family wants them to be.
A historical fiction for the ages. “In the time of Butterflies” is inspired by a true story centering around the Dominican Republic, following three sisters as they join a revolution determined to end the dictatorship that plagues the country they love. Alvarez’s novel highlights family loyalty, love and devotion for a country so deep that they find pride in a future that could be.
“Mexican Gothic” by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
“The Poet X” uses unique format and language to tell the story of a teenage girl who grapples with her strict upbringing. Written in a freeverse, poetry style, Poet X is unique — every line , word, punctuation matters. Acevedo portrays the feeling of not fully belonging and being unsure in your identity masterfully. Poet X captures the young Hispanic experience iwn its most Authentic form.
Mexican Gothic uses the richness of hispanic culture and utilizes it to create a unique mystery. When Noemi’s cousin tells her that she suspects her husband is trying to poison her, Noemi is thrown into a mystery filled with family ties and dangerous turns. “Mexican Gothic” is eerie, with moments of magical realism that haunt both Noemi and the reader.
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“The Poet X” by Elizabeth Acevedo
“Violeta” By Isabelle Allende
It’s difficult not to think of Isabelle Allende when bringing upHispanic authors “They Both Die at the End” By who have broken generational barriers. Allende’s personal story of being exiled Adam Silvera from her home country after a violent coup A LGBTQ+ love story that stole against her uncle is awe-inspiring enough. the hearts of readers. Silvera’s book Her lived experience and true love for life is equally both heartbreaking and seeps into the ink of her pen when she writes. fulfilling. “They Both Die at the End” The use of magical realism in her writing is a dystopian book that manages to shows a passion for the small things in stand out in the genre. In a world where life.“Violeta” perfectly translates Allende’s your death is determined by an outside passion into written word. Violeta is on her organization and you’re only given a deathbed as she recounts a life of love and twenty-four hour notice, two teenage loss, filled with regret and heartbreak, but boys find love and comfort in each also peace as she tells her grandson in her other, as they face their seemingly last final moments what made her the person she is. moments together.
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RADAR
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A Legacy of Beauty MILAN FASHION WEEK CELEBRATES BOUNDARY-PUSHING DESIGNS AND SUSTAINABILITY. MOYOSOLA EROGBOGBO Contributing Writer
Envision a week of elegance and glamour; transported from the mundanity of everyday life into the beautiful and temperate city of Milan, Italy. Set against a variety of back drops, models walk runways under the sun and indoors showcasing numerous silhouettes, styles and materials. As the years have gone on, increasingly unique mediums have been used on the runway. Milan Fashion week dates back to 1958, when it was hosted in the private estates of fashion admirers of the time. From then to now, Milan Fashion Week has exploded as a hub of culture bringing out the creativity of local designers and presenting fashion super powers like Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Dolce & Gabbana. Today’s designers travel from all over the world to show their work on one of Milan Fashion Week’s venues, and models give it their all walking on a once in a lifetime runway. Now, the clothes! This runway had many unique looks with a diverse array of forms. There were many bright spots of color like the pieces from the Moschino collection and J. Salinas’s crotchet work that highlighted the form along with bold colors that complimented the models’ complexions. There were displays of unique patternage by Roberto Cavalli with his signature tiger print, and much more. One standout trend was the relaxed silhouette of many pieces. Roberto Cavalli gave the audience everything. With the signature animal print styling complimented by purple, red and yellow accents, Fausto Puglisi showed off designs that dominate the eyes’ attention forcing one to consume
this mirage-like image of a predator figures or symbols, originating from enshrined in veils of mist. the Andes mountains. The J. Salinas SS27 collection is a cohesive story that Breaking down the stylistic choices, conveys the contemporary place of many of the garments are accompanied traditions in our lives. by a robe decorated in some type of print. This relaxes the models’ shape, Pivoting to a more floral setting, but is contrasted by the very intense Luisa Beccaria truly brought a level amalgamation of colors and animal of elegance to the Milan 2026 Fashion print. It is like a storm in heels. Even Week. With incredible variety in the off the runway, Olandria stepped out patterns and color schemes, the work in a beautiful floor-length dress with speaks for itself. Many of the models fox patternage, while Cardi B sported wear clothes that have a looser, the brand’s signature tiger print. Under more flowy appearance, and this is the Cavalli name, Fausto Puglisi truly complimented by both the sheerness created bold art. and prints of the fabric. The runway looks like an ensemble of ornate On another note, Moschino and corsages with lace, flower patterns J. Salinas stopped the show with and sheer materials. Luisa Beccaria’s their vivid colors and bold designs. clothes transport the viewer to spring Moschino captured eyes with a mixture when the flowers bloom and the bees of baggy,oversized blazers and coats buzz. accompanied by bloomers and trousers that exaggerated this oversized look. Stepping away from the glamor of Additionally, with the use of bright Milan Fashion Week, sustainability is vibrant colors, the exaggerated part of the artistry in fashion. Fashion proportions of the designs seemed to should be sustainable. It should be be larger than life. All the way down manufactured and distributed in a the shoes, whether it be heels, loafers way that minimizes its impact on the or wedges, each outfit seems to be environment. This looks like durable intentionally loud. Not only was the clothing that will last through the many Moschino runway visually appealing, seasons and phases of life, with clear it was artisanally diverse, with a range washing instructions. of ready-to-wear to couture. Some might call this “slow fashion,” Similar to Moschino, J. Salinas since it requires an intentionality in demonstrated an attention to detail picking production partners, but this is as the color blocking in the garments the best way to ensure that the things highlights many of the models’ we create continue to sustain us in the complexions. J. Salinas uses cotton future. As consumers it is important and organza to craft sculptures of color to appreciate fashion for what goes and design around the models. By into it, just as much as what it is. It using crochet and intentional layering can be difficult to determine the true J. Salinas creates a story that is unique. environmental impacts of specific This is done on purpose as the collection brands, but it is important to at least is meant to capture the essence of attempt to understand where clothing a Retablo: a small box containing comes from, and who it affects. ■H
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RADAR
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
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Paramount and Warner Bros. to Merge into Skydance HOLLYWOOD LEFT IN SHAMBLES AFTER SKYDANCE MEDIA CORPORATION’S $81 BILLION ACQUISITION OF WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY. HANNAH KLOPPING Contributing Writer
On Oct. 6, 2026, entertainment industry enthusiasts sank into melancholy as the Warner Bros. Studio water tower cast a gloom over Burbank with “Skydance Media Corporation” painted underneath the tower’s iconic WB logo, merely hours after the corporation announced its longchallenged $81 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. The deal merged the famed studio and its beloved franchises such as “Harry Potter,” DC/DC Extended Universe, “The Lord of the Rings” and “Looney Tunes” with Skydance’s 2025 acquisition of Paramount Pictures. The highly debated merger sparked anxiety among entertainment industry professionals. The nightmare of every emerging writer was coming true: a presently saturated field would become increasingly impossible to break into. The Writers Guild of America (WGA) feared that merging two of Hollywood’s most notable film studios would gravely threaten the film and television industry. In their official statement, WGA raised concerns that “the proposed Paramount-Warner Bros. merger
would reduce competition between buyers of film and television writing services, giving the combined entity increased incentive and ability to suppress writers’ compensation, erode deal terms, create new barriers to building sustainable careers and diminish the volume and diversity of programming reaching audiences.”
reduction in the number of overall deals, and downward pressure on writers’ compensation for film and television writing services. In addition, the merger will increase the likelihood that the remaining firms will be able to tacitly coordinate with each other to further suppress competition in the markets where they operate.” The July lawsuit resulted in a settlement requiring the merged corporation to uphold a five-year commitment to release 30 films annually in the first two years, 32 films a year in the remaining three PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS and a minimum of four independent Furthermore, on July, 14, 2026, the films each year. California’s Department guild attempted to sue the newfound media of Justice states that failure to comply with corporation, arguing that eliminating a main the agreement will inflict financial penalties competitor would violate antitrust law and on the corporation. While the settlement bring detriment to concentrated markets. prevented immediate liquidation of the two “A merger of the two firms will increase historic studios, public reaction grew frantic concentration and decrease competition in amidst the sheer uncertainty the merger each market, resulting in numerous harms created for the future of the industry and its including a reduction in the quantity and rising professionals, who dream of a space variety of theatrical films and series, fewer where their imaginations can be brought to ■ opportunities for writers to sell their work, a life. H
Playlist to expand anyone’s music taste into LatinMAIN America ST SOME SONGS TO INTRODUCE ANYONE TO HISPANIC ARTISTS OF DIFFERENT GENRES.
ABIGAIL ORTIZ Assistant Radar Editor
Music is an integral part of Hispanic and Latino culture. Often played at celebrations, gatherings or casual meetings, music is embedded into the culture and expands across genres. In celebration of Hispanic and Latino heritage month, here are some songs by artists of different genres and origins of Latin America to expand your music taste. “La Vida es un Carnaval” by Celia Cruz Celia Cruz, also known as the queen of salsa, is a legendary Cuban artist that shaped generations with her work. “La Vida es un Carnaval” is a celebration of life that many should resonate with. Cruz emphasizes the importance of being a community, living life to the fullest and not stressing on the bad aspects of life. “MADRE” by Young Miko (ft. Villano Antillano) Puerto Rican artists Young Miko and Villano Antilano collaborated on this song to make a lively and electronic sound that will uplift any sad spirits. This track
exudes confidence and uplifts anyone to feel beautiful on a night out. This track even to those who don’t speak spanish creates a want to dance and move around. “Porque Llorar” by Los Beats Salvadorean band Los Beats’s cover of The Beatles song “Don’t Let Me Down” is an easy to listen to song that anyone regardless of language can enjoy. With the usual blues rock sound of The Beatles translated and performed in a sad and melancholic tone by Los Beats, the listener is transported to an emotional space. “Yo Perreo Sola” by Bad Bunny Bad Bunny is a well-known reggaeton artist that has fans all over the world. Particularly, his track “Yo Perreo Sola” is unique since it serves as commentary on the female experience in a Latin-American society filled with machismo and unsafe spaces. In the music video, Bad Bunny dresses in drag to further encapsulate the themes of female empowerment and confidence in an
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oppressive society that shames promiscuity. “Si Me Voy” by Cuco (ft. The Marias) Cuco and María Zardoya are both Latin American artists that are well known for their presence in the indie pop genre. Omar Banos (Cuco) is Mexican-American while María is a Puerto Rican-born artist. In “Si Me Voy,” they combine their ability to emulate sadness through their music to create a track that is about the loss of a romantic partner. Anyone who enjoys indie pop will enjoy this track. “this room could be heaven.” by AKRIILA AKRIILA is a Chilean-born artist that recently became popular in many parts of Latin America. Known for her alternative pop and trap music, “this room could be heaven.” could be an introduction to anyone looking to expand their Latin American artistry. With loud guitars and heavy electronic production, “this room could be heaven.” is just a slice of ■ how cool AKRIILA’s discography is. H
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RADAR
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“Lanterns” shines in its devastating yet hopeful season finale A HEAVY HITTING FINALE TO THE DC UNIVERSE’S LATEST CHAPTER. HENYA DADEM, Assistant Marketing Director
*Contains Spoilers* Last year’s “Superman” marked the official launch of James Gunn and Peter Safran’s reimagining of the DC Universe (DCU). Followed by “Supergirl,” the soft reboot has allowed audiences to refamiliarize themselves with iconic DC Comic characters while setting the groundwork for other projects down the timeline. As the latest addition to the DCU, season one of “Lanterns,” released on HBO, pivots from the more comedic tone of projects such as “Peacemaker,” to instead explore a darker, grounded mystery akin to HBO’s “True Detective.” The season finale, titled “Dirt and Stars,” follows John Stewart (Aaron Pierre) as he uncovers the truth behind Hal Jordan’s murder. Set in 2026, John navigates the fallout with a hologram of Hal Jordan (Kyle Chandler), preserved in his Green Lantern ring, referred to as “Halogram.” The pair leave the deserted planet, Antaan, with a lantern laced with fear created by Sinestro (Ulrich Thomsen). The episode continues the format in previous episodes of weaving the past (2016) and the present timeline (2026) to slowly reveal the mysterious circumstances and events surrounding Hal’s murder. The episode opens in 2026 with a painfully awkward sequence unraveling at a local diner. Sheriff Kelly (Kerry MacDonald) offers a declaration of loyalty and forgiveness to Hal immediately after he’s released from prison after serving 10 years for the destruction of Rushville in 2016. Kerry confronts the restaurant goers for giving Hal disapproving looks by standing up and telling them all to let him live in peace, reminding them that he’s since served his time and deeply remorseful for everything that has happened to them.
as the story retraces Hal’s last few days alive as he is faced with violent threats and harassment hurled at him from the citizens of Rushville. The episode offers a look into how Hal is adjusting to a regular lifestyle by putting his past behind him while also being constantly reminded and haunted by it. Kyle Chandler, Aaron Pierre and Kelly MacDonald deliver consistently strong performances in the finale. Chandler continues to bring depth to Hal’s character and capture the shift in attitude as his tough exterior softens as he becomes comfortable with Sheriff Kerry, and then again when he faces the reality that the woman he loves is in grave danger. Pierre continues to portray John’s inner turmoil and sadness surrounding Hal’s death while maintaining his stoic personality as he comes to terms with the great responsibilities he’s signing up for. Kelly MacDonald’s emotionally grounded performance offers a perspective that balances those of Hal and John’s intergalactic experiences.
before. Halogram treats John more kindly which shows that Hal had always cared about him but was hiding it behind a tough exterior to get through their tough circumstances. John starts to open up and break from the programming he was fed as he grew up which allowed him to finally be himself and live on his own terms. This depiction allows the audience to wonder what their dynamic would be like in 2026 if they never learned about the manhunter’s presence in Rushville back when they were first introduced to each other. One of the strongest characteristics of this episode is the striking cinematography by Armando Salas. The scenes that take place on Antaan are dreamlike and utilise vivid lighting and harsh contrasts to emphasize the darkness of Antaan’s brutal history and morbid current condition. The scenes were filmed in a desert which helps to portray Antaan as a planet that looks and feels authentic and real.
The Verdict: Emotional storytelling, complex characters and cinematography Kyle Chandler’s depiction of Halogram is the driving force behind the awkward, and Hal are distinctly different, capturing heartbreaking and hopeful finale to season the contrast between his more optimistic one of “Lanterns.” ■ 2016 attitude that’s captured in Halogram, with the rougher and anxious man he became towards the end of his life. The Although the episode gets off to an difference in personalities allows John to awkward start, the momentum picks up get to know a side of Hal that he couldn’t H
RADAR
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
Radar TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
EVENTS THIS WEEK 10/12 10/16 10/14
Layer by Layer: Creating, Teaching, and Imagining in 3D Exhibit @7:30am to 6pm at Rivera Library, first floor Layer by Layer: Creating, Teaching, and Imagining in 3D Exhibit @ Rivera Library, first floor at 7:30 a.m. Inland Empire Archives Fair 2026 @ Rivera Library 10am to 2pm Jacqueline Avila, Haunting and Soundscapes in Pedro Páramo (Florence Bayz Music Series) @ 12pm to 12:50pm at Arts Building, 157
10/15
Alaav (Hearth & Home) Film Screening and talkback with director Prabhash Chandra @ 5pm to 7:30pm at CHASS Interdisciplinary South, 1128 Tomás Rivera Conference 2026 @ 5pm to 8pm at University Theatre
10/19
Monday Carillon Recitals @ 12pm at UCR Bell Tower
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COURTESY OF CHASS MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS VIA DENNIS CHA
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Sports
SPORTS
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Guardian caps becomes the new “fix” to football head injuries DOES THE NFL AND NCAA ACTUALLY CARE ABOUT PLAYER SAFETY? SAMUEL MARTINEZ Contributing Writer
PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKER
Football is the most violent team sport that Americans enjoy on such a grand scale and it’s hard to pretend that injuries are not an issue of the sport. The National Football League (NFL) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) have worked to reduce injuries through rule changes such as roughing the passer and the sliding rule. However, the most eye-catching addition we have seen these past years is the guardian cap. Guardian caps were initially met with skepticism from audiences mostly for aesthetic reasons. Protecting the player’s head should be top priority. However, the guardian caps look goofy on the field. In a sport like football where swagger is such an important part of player identity, it’s easy to see how a guardian cap might make “highlight-reel” moments less cool. For example, Justin Jefferson hitting the griddy after a touchdown might start a different conversation if his head looked like a mushroom. Chris Olave, wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints, started wearing a guardian cap this year stating, “It was just a decision I’ve made. Shoot, I got kids now. I want to be able to live the long game, it’s not all about football,” Olave is constantly the center of attention as the Saints’ star receiver and his giant
helmet sparked discourse around safety in football. Olave previously had four confirmed concussions and it’s inspiring to hear him talk about taking his brain health seriously. Additionally, when Saints quarterback Tyler Shough was asked about his number one target wearing a guardian cap, he replied, “I just look for the padded stuff on the helmet, and then I just throw it to him blindly,” While this wasn’t a formal press conference and was a casual podcast, it’s hard not to see how Shough could be serious about Olave being an easier target because of his helmet, further complicating the conversation of the guardian caps.
brings the whole campaign around the guardian cap into question. With the stats not supporting that guardian caps are an effective way to protect players, it’s hard to see this as anything more than a bandaid on a third degree burn. The question persists: Does the NFL and NCAA truly care about player’s safety? No. The guardian cap does help players and you can’t shame a player because he takes his health seriously. However, these institutions don’t care about these players outside of their ability to make money.
The biggest complaint that players have about safety is about playing on turf fields. Most players prefer real grass to turf fields; however, both the NFL Nevertheless, the guardian cap has and NCAA refuse to require grass fields a way of saving players from Chronic despite it objectively helping players Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), but reduce injuries to their legs and head. doesn’t actually prevent brain trauma in a significant way. According to various lab If the NFL and NCAA really want to studies, these helmets only improve player reduce harm to their players, the solution health at most 20 percent. Although, the is to drastically overhaul how football NFL pushes the statistic in saying that is played and to require grass fields on it can reduce trauma up to 50 percent, every professional field. While guardian but this has yet to be proven through lab caps can help, it shouldn’t be seen as research. anything other than a half measure, and both audiences and players should still be Neurologist Chris Nowinski recently fighting for player safety and security. ■ said that “much of this Guardian helmet story appears to be a bit of a scam,” which H
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Anthony Edwards will win MVP in the 2026-27 Season EDWARDS IS PRIMED TO TAKE HOME HIS FIRST MVP THIS UPCOMING SEASON. LANDON BAYLON Contributing Writer
The number one overall pick in 2019, eclipse 30 points per game on north of Anthony Edwards has long been regarded 50% from the field and 40% from beyond as one of the National Basketball the arc. Association’s (NBA) best young stars. By both points per game COURTESY OF FLICKR and true shooting percentage, Edwards has continued to improve every season. He paired his career-high 28.8 points per game with 5.0 boards and 3.7 assists. Impressive numbers, but also a statline that back-toback Most Valuable Player(MVP) Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Dončić could accomplish with ease. So why Edwards? Over the offseason, Minnesota brass sent out to pair their star shooting guard with a true facilitating point guard. They got their wish, landing LaMelo Ball via This will largely help him on the trade, opening up the opportunity for defensive side, not needing to exude as Edwards to play off the ball while also much energy on offense. He flashes hightaking pressure off him on offense. motor defense at times, and certainly has the athletic juice to be an All-Defensive Now as the secondary ball handler, Team player, though he hasn’t been able Edwards is sure to get better looks, which to carry that over a full season. would boost both his points per game and efficiency. On the verge of these marks Nobody doubts Edwards’ ability, but his last season, Edwards should feasibly competition is fierce. Nikola Jokic, Victor
Wenbanyama and the aforementioned Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic are all worthy candidates. Jokic is an all-time offensive player, while Wembanyama is coming off a Finals appearance and unanimous Defensive Player of the Year. Additionally, it’s been established that Gilgeous-Alexander and Dončić have more experienced performance history.. Ultimately, Edwards will need to produce at the level that GilgeousAlexander did last season. The reigning back-to-back MVP posted a scored 31.1 points per game with a ludicrous .665 true shooting percentage. Among all 30ppg guards in the history of the league, that efficiency has only been achieved by Steph Curry’s unanimous MVP back in 2016. Of course, with any underdog MVP pick, the stars will have to align to reach the mountain top.It’s a big task, but Edwards has continued to show rapid linear progression and is now surrounded by what may very well be the best team of his career. If there’s any year to accomplish this feat, it’s this upcoming season. ■ H
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SPORTS
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Women’s volleyball team faces defeat against CSUN HIGHLANDERS FALL AT HOME AGAINST MATADORS IN A 3-0 LOSS. DEAN TONGKUMVONG Contributing Writer
On Oct. 9, the University of California, Riverside (UCR) faced off against California State University, Northridge’s (CSUN) women’s volleyball team in the Student Recreation Center (SRC) Arena. The match only went to three sets as the CSUN Matadors swept the Highlanders, despite their immense efforts resulting in a score of 3-0. In the first set, UCR gained their first point from an attack error made by CSUN, taking the score up 2-1 in favor of CSUN. Two points later, middle blocker Izzy Jeffery scored a kill for UCR,] taking the girls to their second point. Two rounds later, CSUN failed to serve, making the score 6-3 in favor of CSUN. CSUN then made their own attack error, giving the Highlanders another point.
ELENA VERSAGE / THE HIGHLANDER
The second set was an intense back and forth, with UCR using CSUN’s faults to their advantage whenever they could. After multiple serve and attack errors on the Matador’s side, the Highlanders made sure to show that their scores would be Later in the set, outside hitter, Sariah much closer than their first set. Johnson, scored a kill for the Highlanders, Outside hitter Casandra Doll was decreasing the deficit to 8-5 in favor of CSUN. The Highlanders scored their able to secure a tremendous kill for the next point from outside hitter Madison Highlanders bringing their score to 9-7, Pulsipher which improved their score to followed up by an attack error from the Matadors leading to a score of 9-8. 8-6. However, multiple serving errors and Unfortunately, the Matadors were unfortunate plays for the Highlanders able to secure the next few points and brought the score up to 16-12 in favor of the Highlanders were unable to keep up, the Matadors. The Highlander’s spirits bringing the total score of the first set to stayed high throughout the set through their intense rallies and great coordination. 25-15 in favor of CSUN. Unfortunately for UCR, the Highlanders As the second set opened up, the just barely lost the second set as CSUN Highlanders tried their best to keep their was able to score their 25th point. game faces on. Their determination was As the Highlanders went into the third shown throughout the game with team huddles in between points and stronger set of the game, fans could feel the energy of the court drop. The Highlanders went coordination coming out of time outs. into the third set with a score of 7-0 in The first point was scored by the favor of CSUN. The morale wasn’t at its Matadors, but the Highlanders were able best, but the team was able to fight through to bounce back when CSUN’s server a great rally. Luckily, CSUN made an was unable to serve the ball, regaining attack error, giving the Highlanders their first point in the third set. possession to the Highlanders.
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Overall, the Highlanders had a fierce third set. Tremendous back-and-fourths were fought through and intense rallies were draining the Highlanders of their energy. The Highlanders had both incredible blocks from their frontline and incredible saves from their backline. After multiple attack errors from the Matadors, the Highlanders brought the score even closer to 17-11 in CSUN’s favor. Although it all went downhill from there, CSUN remained unwavering and did give the Highlanders an opportunity to score. Unfortunately, the third set and the game came to a close when CSUN scored the final point, bringing the score of the third set to 25-14, which also brought the game to a total score of 3-0 in favor of the Matadors. Although the loss may have seemed like a clean sweep victory for CSUN, the Highlanders persevered through every adversity with a look on their faces that spoke volumes. Even when faced with a loss, the team never backed down and kept their morale high in hopes to do better in the next game. ■H
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SPORTS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2026
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RIVERSIDE RECAPS MEN’S SOCCER - OCTOBER 07 UC RIVERSIDE VS. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, FULLERTON 2-2 T
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL - OCTOBER 09 UC RIVERSIDE VS. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, NORTHRIDGE 0-3 L
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL - OCTOBER 10 UC RIVERSIDE VS. CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, BAKERSFIELD 2-3 L
WOMEN’S SOCCER - OCTOBER 10 UC RIVERSIDE VS. UC SAN DIEGO 0-2 L
MEN’S SOCCER - OCTOBER 10 CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY VS. UC RIVERSIDE 0-2 L
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SPORTS
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SPORTS
Ser brillante. The Highlander Newspaper is a great way to keep up with current events and news around campus. If you are interested in the newspaper’s articles or pictures, we offer opportunities in writing, photography and design. Join us every Monday at 5:15 p.m. in HUB 101 to learn more.
The Highlander
MAIN ST
ORANGE ST
VASH CHEN / THE HIGHLANDER