May 2007

2005 was a largely tragic year for the world of metal. Forgettable releases from once great bands, including Mudvayne (“Lost and Found”) and Rammstein (“Rosenrot”), plagued those 12 months, dropping morale of the community as that dreadful question seemed to pose itself more and more prominently; “Is metal on its last legs?” A potential “yes” answer was further cemented with Static-X’s “Start A War,” a mediocre disc (at best) showcasing some wildly uninspired lyrics on frontman Wayne Static’s part, shouted over some decent riffs that made fans long for the days of “Wisconsin Death Trip,” the band’s 1999 debut.

One of the key principles the Riverside City College Student Government would like from the student body is to get involved, to make a “difference.” The student election process began May 1, the candidates met at the Student Government office, where Viewpoints was able to talk to two of the candidates, Elsa Rodriguez (for student senate) and Maximo Arriola (for Vice President), about the election, student involvement and voter turn-out.

Finals… suck. Only one obstacle stands in the way between students and the end of the semester-finals. Sure, the end of semester rite of passage seems like a monumental task. No matter what classes students take, finals always seem to elevate those stress levels and bring a frantic pessimism to the end of term.

Modern Dance is “punk rock.” As Riverside City College student Brianna Barett summed up, modern dance is a departure away from most of the standards, rules and conventions of Classical dancing like ballet. It blends styles of the former and adds free flow movement as well as a center on individual expression.

The 2008 presidential race just might be one of the most interesting yet in comparison to previous races. The upcoming elections have everyone wondering who will win. With such candidates as Hilary Clinton, Bill Richardson, Mitt Romney, and Barack Obama there’s definitely an assortment of candidates.

I just want to get out of here. My initial feelings were that of fear while exploring the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa, a creepy old building in the heart of Riverside’s downtown area. Standing four stories tall and taking up an entire block, the Mission Inn Hotel and Spa is one of the most beautiful and creepiest buildings I’ve ever been in.

The world does not need more teachers. Instead, “We need more good teachers; people that care about the community,” Ola Jackson, associate dean of the Teacher Preparation and Education Program said. As evident by the accomplishments of the program, Riverside City College is fulfilling that need.

“Year Zero” is the only political party people will be able to dance to this year. Nine Inch Nails’ auteur Trent Reznor’s sixteen track compilation of industrial-rock and synthesized hip-hop beats is one of Nine Inch Nails’ better releases. “Year Zero’s” production was influenced by Public Enemy’s “Bomb Squad” as well as the album’s political themes and concepts.

I must admit… I was a bassoon virgin. Having never heard the sound a bassoon makes or even what it looks like, I went to the Riverside City College Flute and Bassoon studio recital on May 10. And wow, not only was it enjoyable but the performances from the students was very impressive.