El Paisano Newspaper Vol.63 Issue 3

Wednesday October 6, 2021

Serving The Rio Hondo Community

Vol.63 Issue 3

Dr. Merrill Shum Named Top Doctor 2021 Whittier local Oncologist/ Hematologist

is recognized dually by his prominence in medicine Brandon Ramirez for El Paisano Media Dr. Shum treasures his team and feels he does not work alone in achieving patient survival rates, insurance costs or anything that may impede in their treatment. He is reminiscent of Dr. Seuss’ book, The Giving Tree because he gives his patients the necessities they need to survive and thrive all while giving them hope and knowing they are not left alone.

Brandon R amirez Opinion Co-Editor

brandon.ramirez3017@my.riohondo.edu

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r. Merrill Shum was named Top Doctor 2021 by California Magazine and 2021 Super Doctor by Los Angeles Magazine. He is the Senior Medical Director of The Oncology Institute of Hope and Innovation (TOI). In Whittier and Downey, he also serves patients at his affiliate hospital Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital (PIH). He, alongside his staff, has helped many patients in Whittier and the surrounding areas in healing with compassion and understanding.

Dr. Shum explicitly treats patients suffering from cancer and blood diseases/ disorders. His work also incorporates new treatments, clinical trials, and working closely with patients and their other doctors. His collaboration with other facilities far exceeds those of many. He is a doctor whose mindset is patient first.

He does this by improving lives by educating patients on diseases and improving their quality of life despite the hardships they may be facing.

He has a notable history.

His awards and recognitions date back nearly a decade, with his profile on The Oncology Institute’s website marking early achievements.

These include being awarded Southern California’s Rising Star Award from Los Angeles Magazine from 2013 to 2015.

He has 23 printed publications that are found in many

and the Journal of Thoracic Oncology. His 24th publication is set to be published this December by the American Society of Hematology.

However, despite his many notable accomplishments, Dr. Shum prefers not to take all the credit. ” It’s not about me, “he says, “It’s not about awards

remain anonymous said, “He lives up to his name. He is a medical professional that genuinely cares for his patients well-being, their survival, but most importantly he is a physician that will go above and beyond his call of duty to save lives. He practices what he preaches.

In my eyes he is my Moham-

clinical journals. Some include the American Journal of Medicine, American Journal of Hematology, American Journal of Clinical Oncology, Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, Annals of Oncology, Blood, Proceedings, American Journal of Clinical Oncology, Cancer Research,

or stuff we get. It’s about the patients. It’s always been a team effort.”

He’s quoted saying that his name in Chinese means “someone wise who helps others to become better.” Dr. Shum is the epitome of the meaning.

A patient who asked to

mad Ali of boxing, knocking cancers and other diseases out of the human body. He has taught me that there are almost no impossibilities.

Survival is the goal and he will always find ways within his scope to make it happen.”

This sentiment can be

“It’s not about me.

It’s not about awards or stuff we get. It’s about the patients. It’s always been a team effort.”

found throughout his philosophy as a physician, with his profile also noting his recognition of the importance of getting patients through the difficulties of having a diagnosis. Dr. Shum focuses on how much more critical the patient is than himself.

“It’s about what they can take...improving their quality of life and improving survival rates,” is what matters. His main goal is the patients.

“When I first met Dr. Shum, he told me honestly that I would need to be on treatment for the rest of my life,” says longtime patient Yvonne Ramirez. Ramirez was diagnosed with a highly aggressive form of stage four metastatic breast cancer in 2017, describing the location where cancer cells had been found as ‘if someone had shot me with a cancer shotgun.’ But then he said,” recounts Ramirez, “that we were going to be good friends, like family. And we are.” She said, “I’ve been his patient for five years now, and he’s a great doctor.”

Ramirez’s treatments have been on the cutting edge of cancer treatments.

However, both she and Dr. Shum constantly work towards finding a balance that Continued on pg.2 ▶

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◀ Continues from pg.1 is suitable for her. His impact on his patients becomes clear immediately when speaking with them. Ramirez jokes about him and genuinely refers to him as a friend.

It’s clear to both Dr. Shum and his patients that his primary focus is their well-being, comfort, and trust.

Dr. Shum was also recently presented with the Physicians Achievement Award from the Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital (PIH), where he does his hospital rounds.

The Oncology of Hope and Innovation is located at 8135 Painter Ave #103, Whitter. He is always taking new patients, and most insurances are accepted. To schedule an appointment at the Whittier office, please call 562698-6888. You may also visit https://theoncologyinstitute. com for additional information. You may also go to the PIH website: https://www. pihhealth.org/find-a-doctor/ physician-profile-advanced/ merrill-shum/ for a short story on how Dr. Shum became a doctor.

Brandon Ramirez for El Paisano Media October is breast cancer awareness month, and Ramirez takes part by adorning pink bracelets. When asked about her condition she always encourages people not to be afraid and to have faith in their strength.

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Rio Hondo Campus COVID-19 Guidelines Marina Gutierrez Reporter

marina.gutierrez9543@my.riohondo.edu

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ue to the aftermath of the pandemic, Rio Hondo College has implemented strict COVID-19 regulations for in-person courses.

During this Fall semester of 2021, the majority of courses are remote. There are a limited number of in-person courses.

There are strict rules enforced if you choose to take an in-person course. You must wear a mask at all times and social distance yourselves.

Physical education cours-

es are not exempt from Covid-19 rules. For example, during the Soccer 1 course, you must still wear a mask. However, the professor only has to wear a mask, if he or she is within three feet of someone else. One student, who wished to remain anonymous, was asked how she felt about playing with a mask. She answered, “I understand these rules are to protect others but having to wear a mask while running is not ideal. I don’t let it bother me too much, though, because it’s understandable.”

Another Rio student, who also wished to remain anonymous, was asked how he

Photos by John T. Rodriguez for El Paisano Media COVID 19 guideline flyers posted around the school for people to see so they may protect themselves and others on campus.

Photos by John T. Rodriguez for El Paisano Media

Rio Hondo College encourages everyone to wear a mask prior to entering the school's cafeteria this semester.

felt about wearing a mask. He answered, “Last class meeting, we were informed that someone participating in the course contracted COVID-19. If it was not for us wearing our masks, it would have turned into an entire outbreak.”

In addition, the Rio Hondo College Board of Trustees unanimously approved a policy that requires a mask covering and vaccination for both faculty and students. If a student wishes to attend in-person classes, they must show proof of vaccination

by Oct. 16. To request a medical, religious, or pregnancy exemption, you must submit the

online form by Oct. 8.

Mask coverings must cover both the nose and mouth and must be worn indoors and outdoors. Face shields will not be acceptable. Social distancing of three feet will be enforced within the classrooms. Social distancing of six feet will be enforced everywhere outside of the classrooms.

Any students experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should not be on campus. Symptoms include sore throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, muscle pain, extreme fatigue/ feeling very tired, fever, new/ severe headache, difficulty

breathing, and new loss of taste and/or smell. Students enrolled in on campus courses that have symptoms of COVID-19, or have been exposed to COVID-19, must notify their instructor immediately.

Students can submit proof of vaccination and exempt forms online under Student Health Services, then by clicking Vaccination.

Rio Hondo will be continuing to inform students and staff on all COVID-19 protocols throughout the semester. For any questions, contact the Office of Student Affairs at SSalcedo@riohondo.edu.

DEA warns increase of Fentanyl and Meth in Fake Prescription Pills John T. Rodriguez

News/Photo Editor

john.rodriguez5769@my.riohondo.edu

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public safety alert was issued on Monday by the US Drug Enforcement Administration on an increase of fake prescription pills. It has been discovered that fentanyl and methamphetamine have been laced to many of the fake prescription pills. This has been the first alert issued by the DEA in six years.

More than 9.5 million have been seized this year according to the DEA, which have increased in the past two years.

Numbers of COVID 19 numbers weren’t the only numbers that had increased in the year 2020.

Last year, drug overdose deaths hit the highest number ever recorded.

According to the DEA lab

tests, they have revealed a rise in pills that contain two milligrams of the drug, which is a lethal dose. Four out of ten counterfeit pills are deadly according to the DEA administrator Anne Milgram. “The United States is facing an unprecedented crisis of overdose deaths fueled by illegally manufactured fentanyl and methamphetamine,” said Anne Milgram.

In every US state, these counterfeit pills have been seized by the DEA. The tip of a pencil is about the same size as a deadly dose of fentanyl.

Criminal drug networks are the ones that manufacture these counterfeit pills. These pills are made to look like authentic prescription medications such as Oxycontin, Percocet, Xanax, and Adderall.

It has been reported by the DEA that the majority of coun-

Graphic by John T. Rodriguez for El Paisano Media DEA has launched One Pill Can Kill Public Awareness Campaign to educate the dangers of counterfeit pills to the Public. visit https:// www.dea.gov/onepill.

Graphic by John T. Rodriguez for El Paisano Media

terfeit pills brought to the US are produced in Mexico. While China is the country supplying the chemicals for manufacturing fentanyl in Mexico.

Fake prescription pills can be sold to anyone with a smartphone, including minors which is no surprise. They can usually be sold through social media and an e-commerce platform.

Anne Milgram has gone on and stated, “Counterfeit pills that contain these dangerous and extremely addictive drugs are more lethal and more accessible than ever before.”

The DEA is doing everything they can to take down the drug traffickers causing the harm and posing the threat of the safety and health of Americans. Their mission is to protect communities, enforce drug laws, and bring justice to criminals sourcing, producing, and distributing illicit drugs, including counterfeit pills.

DEA has launched One Pill Can Kill Public Awareness Campaign to educate the dangers of counterfeit pills to the Public.

With all the dangers of counterfeit pills the DEA urges all Americans to be alert and only take medications that are prescribed by a real doctor.

For more information on One Pill Can Kill, visit https:// www.dea.gov/onepill.

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Sunken Museum

Depicts Global Issues M adeline Torres A&E Co-Editor

madeline.torres3722@my.riohondo.edu

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he world’s first underwater museum opened last month displaying about ninety-three sculptures

by Jason deCaires Taylor. The underwater forest is located in Cyprus stretching out to as far as five hundred fifty feet and as deep as thirty-three feet. Taylor’s vision behind

the underwater museum was to help bring awareness to environmental issues, for example, climate change and marine life.

"I tried to incorporate as many references to climate change and habitat loss and pollution as I could because those are really the defining issues of our era," Taylor explains to CNN Travel.

Cyprus was specifically

Madeline Torres for El Paisano Media

Jason de Caires Taylor opened Musan because he wanted to spread awareness to the world about how humans have greatly impacted the coral and marine life.

Photo Courtesy of Instagram User @og.cyprus

Anyone visting Musan of the coast of Cyprus may enter the museum for free as long as they make reservations ahead of time.

chosen as the location for the underwater museum because the coast of Cyprus safely protects all marine life. Submerging various sculptures into the deep ocean by cranes, each sculpture is created with ph neutral materials to help create a safe place for marine creatures and grow more coral.

After three years in the making, the sunken forest was created costing about one million dollars. The plan was to open the museum in March 2020 but due to the pandemic, the opening day had to be delayed.

"We had a lot of difficulties with changing flights, organizing materials, and moving everything. It's certainly been one of the most challenging projects that I've ever done."

Taylor tells CNN Travel.

Visitors will be able to enter the museum on land then be led down a path that will then submerge them down to where the sculptures are.

Snorkelers visiting the museum will see various sculptures depicting the meaning behind men vs. nature. Taylor wanted to convey the significance of humans and their impact on nature by displaying sculptures of children holding cameras and playing hide and seek.

"I'm kind of hoping that it leaves the visitor with a sense of hope along with a sense that the human impact isn't always negative. That we can reverse some of the things we've done.” says Taylor.

Taylor hopes for a change in the public’s perspective after visiting the underwater museum. It could be a big step

for humans to realize how much damage has been done to coral reefs and the marine ecosystem. Taylor continues to spread awareness by working on new underwater museums in Australia and France after losing a great amount of their coral life.

"The underwater museum will be a living visual and ecological experience, with works of art interacting with nature and evolving over time," Marina Argyrou, director of the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research says.

Is anyone interested in visiting Musan? Besides having to make reservations months in advance, anyone can snorkel or dive down to the museum for free! Reservations can be made online on the museum’s website.

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Nasty Vendors Profit Off of Indigenous Artists M adeline Torres A&E Co-Editor

madeline.torres3722@my.riohondo.edu

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any online companies are stealing and profiting off of indigenous artist’s Orange Shirt Day designs and logos. Orange Shirt Day takes place on September thirtieth to honor residential school victims. Orange Shirt Day first started in 2013 when Phyllis Webstad, a residential school survivor, had her orange shirt taken away on her first day of school. Many children were forced to attend these schools and were severely verbally and physically abused. September thirtieth was approved by the Parliament and became the first new federal statutory holiday. Wearing an orange shirt helps show honor to the victims and spread awareness of this important historical event.

Since then, there have been issues arising every year during Orange Shirt Day between indigenous artists and online vendors. Online sites like Amazon, Etsy, and even Facebook have all promoted vendors stealing designs from indigenous artists and selling them to people.

None of the profits being made go to indigenous organizations only to the dark-minded vendors selling those stolen designs.

"A lot of times, they're overseas companies and they're just kind of looking at trends, and they see this as a trend here in Canada and in North America,

and they want to capitalize on it. So, you know, they're just trying to make a buck off of this." Artist, Andy Evans, explains to CBC News.

Evans ‘Every Children Matters’ logo was stolen by vendors and appeared on knock-off crocs and revealing dresses.

The artist expresses how frustrated he is with vendors using his empowering message to “capitalize on the atrocities."

The Orange Shirt Society also speaks out claiming that their logos have been stolen by online vendors for ongoing years.

"It hurts and angers me when I hear that companies are profiting from Orange Shirt Day," Shannon Henderson, the society's vice-president, said in a written statement.

The Orange Shirt Society is a non-profit organization that helps spread the importance of Orange Shirt Day to communities. People can show their support by donating or buying any of the products they sell on their websites. All the proceeds go to the non-profit to honor their work and honor the survivors.

Many of the online sites have spoken out about taking action to resolve this problem, yet there are still vendors selling stolen products. Many hardworking indigenous artists have spoken out about it saying they sell their work to help give back and honor indigenous victims.

They do hope that one day this issue will be resolved.

"Our art is inspired by many generations and our ancestors.

My mum recently passed away and she sat here and watched me make the shirts — and so I like to honour her and know she's sitting here with me." Tina Taphouse tells CBC News.

It is encouraged that people must ask where their money is going when buying orange shirts to make sure their money

is going towards survivors or non-profit organizations. Many artists are hoping that their artwork will make a difference to the world and make people recognize the importance of Orange Shirt Day. If interested in wanting to help support indigenous artists or any families that were victims of residential schools, visit www.orangeshirtday.org to do-

nate and also learn more about the importance of September thirtieth. There are also many indigenous artists all over the world selling their handmade products online to spread the awareness about the historical event. The Orange Society along with talented indigenous artists are woking together to make a change in the world.

Design by Artist Andy Everson

Every year, The Orange Shirt Society hosts events in Canada and also internationally. The events take the whole day as they gather people around the word to look back and recognize the historical event that happened on September thirtieth. The events and programs held by The Orange Shirt Society are meant to teach people and allow indigenous people to be heard and speak their truth.

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3-D Printed Vaccines Eliminate the Pain Jonathon Carmona

Science and Tech Editor

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jonathon.carmona9046@my.riohondo.edu

he days of long needles, angry nurses, and seeing grown men panic may be over, at least, for the most part.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated about 25% of adult human beings are scared of needles.

This fear of needles, or any fear for that matter, can be detrimental.

Scientists from the University of North Carolina (UNC) and Stanford University (SU) have been developing a new way to receive a shot. A 3-D printed patch will have needles supposedly so small you can barely feel them.

Dr. Joseph DeSimone worked at UNC for 30 years and is currently a professor of translational medicine and chemical engineering at Stanford University. His teams’ aim is to make getting vaccines pain-free, anxiety-free, and efficient in terms of dose and application.

The patches are to be applied directly to the skin and contain immune cells that

Graphic by Jonathon Carmona for El Paisano Media

Technological advances are happening every day. A new 3-D printed vaccine patch, which involves a pioneering 3-D printing breakthrough, could change the world.

vaccines look too target. The results were 10 times more efficient than a shot to the arm muscle with a needle jab.

"We have 100 to 1,000 times more of the targeted immune cells in the dermis of our skin than we do in our muscle,” Joseph DeSimone stated.

"They can be self-administered. You wouldn't need a health care worker...they could be delivered by UPS or Amazon."

This past year, we were hit by an enemy we couldn’t see.

Covid-19 shook the system and a race for a vaccine started. The

people panicked and feared more than needles. The number of lives Coronavirus was taking was rising rapidly.

We eventually figured out a vaccine, and now are faced with another situation, the vaccine.

Aside from folks not wanting to take a vaccine at all, some peo-

ple wish it was easier to receive.

Currently, most people will have to drive to a vaccination site and get a shot in the arm.

While health care workers have been doing their best to mitigate the pandemic, this new patch could be world changing.

Whether you want the vaccine for Covid-19 or not, a 3-D printed patch for any and all future vaccines or flu shots would be incredibly more efficient than what we have now.

This relieves some of the pressure put on health care workers. Being able to order your vaccine patches relieves the fear of getting a shot, and pioneers the future of medical technology.

People all over the world, poor or rich, will be able to get help if they want.

As humans, we are vulnerable to the unseen. The dangers are not always what is in front of us, but what may be lurking beyond.

Graphic by Jonathon Carmona for El Paisano Media

Its October! The Fall season is officially upon us, which means leaves are changing colors, nights might get colder (we live in California), and the things will go bump in the night. These are the phases our moon will be in during the month of October. This month features a "Hunter's Moon" on Oct. 20th, so good luck to the hunters out there, and a "be safe" for the hunted.

Graphic by JonatwWhon Carmona for El Paisano Media

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Wednesday October 6, 2021

The European Commission Makes Proposal to Make USB-C Mandatory On All Electronics Christopher Elias Reporter

Christopher.elias3879@my.riohondo.edu

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he European Commission has made a proposal in attempts to reduce electronic waste in Europe.

The Proposal

This is to eliminate all other cable types aside from USB-C to make a “universal” cable for all electronics. This not only includes phones but as well as: cameras, tablets, headphones, video game consoles, and portable speakers.

The proposal would require companies to make their fastcharging interoperable and an explanation on how it works for all customers. If the proposal is to become law, companies will have two years to comply.

This would allow customers to purchase phones without a charger if they already have an older USB-C charging cable.

The only company that may

have issue with the change if the proposal passes as law seems to be Apple.

The "Rebel" Company

Being the only company who still ships their phones without USB-C chargers but lightning cable chargers. Apple has already voiced their concerns about the possible law stating; “We remain concerned that strict regulation mandating just one type of connector stifles innovation rather than encouraging it, which in turn will harm consumers in Europe and around the world.” With that being said they don’t seem to have an issue making their laptops and iPads USB-C compatible. Apple has made strides in its attempts to reduce their e-waste. Doing this by no longer shipping a charging block with their phones. Apple choosing to do this with the first phone to have a lightning to USB-C cable cause mixed emotions. Forcing customers to have to buy a new

Photo by Christopher Elias for El Paisano Media

A junk drawer full of wires.

charging block regardless.

Why only Europe?

Now this may all seem quite useless and unnecessary to people outside of Europe however European Commission's vice president Margrethe Vestager stated, “European consumers were frustrated long enough about incompatible chargers piling up in their drawers.” This has

White Button Mushroom Tablets used to slow the advancement in Prostate Cancer

Photos by Yasmine Poot for El Paisano Media The white button mushroom is accesible for everyone. As pictured above the mushroom can be found in the backyard and the market. This is another reason why the white button mushroom is used during these trials.

also been a huge contribution to the 12.3 million metric tons of electronic waste as of 2016 in Europe alone. The proposal only applies to phones that charge through a wire not those that charge only wirelessly.

The support in early 2020 from parliament in a similar proposal shows that this will pass as law.

It is just a matter of seeing how long it will take for companies

to implement the change, how Apple will comply, and if this will change anything for the rest of the world.

Yasmine Poot

500mg of white button mushroom these tablets were taken twice a day.

Researchers at City of Hope are developing a much less toxic therapy to fight this cancer.

The reason why white button mushroom was used is because Shiuan Chen, Ph. D. Professor and chair, department of cancer biology said, “Mushrooms came out as one of the important vegetables that was said to have the ability to suppress the proliferation in both breast and prostate cancer cells.” Video found on the City of Hope website shows the progress of two men who took the mushroom tablet and showed that just after 60 days one man's PSA levels were undetectable for four years and the other was as low as .04 it is unknown of how long it stayed that low.

The world of mushrooms and medicine are combining for the best outcome. The trial has moved into its second phase this year.

Reporter

Yasmine.poot1059@my.riohondo.edu

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here are over 14,000 known species of mushrooms, many still unknown. Mushrooms hold a valuable place in our environment. These species hold a key to our future. However, can they do the same in modern medicine?

City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center that houses the Beckman Research institute has been researching the white button mushroom. The research has shown the advancement of the mushroom with prostate cancer. Therefore phase one of the trial began on January 29, 2009 with using men who had a history with prostate cancer who had to have a 2.0 increase of prostate specific antigen (PSA) in their blood. The trial used freeze dried mushrooms that were turned into powder and were made into tablets that are

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What is Seasonal Depression?

Gabrielle Ortiz

Lifestyles and A&E Editor

gabrielle.ortiz3320@my.riohondo.edu

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o you ever feel down and out during the fall and winter months? The weather, the stress of seeing family and friends, or simply the thought of having to get out of bed in the morning can be dreary.

The name of that dismay is Seasonal Affective Depression, also known as SAD. It is very common, tallying up at more than 3 million cases per year. It takes place during the fall and winter months. For many, the lack of sunlight causes a type of gloomy and melancholy feeling.

Although uncommon, SAD does have an effect during the summer months.

Seasonal depression can be distressing and overwhelm-

ing. It lasts about 40 percent of the year in most cases and can interfere with daily activities and everyday functions. The symptoms range from mild to severe with varying degrees.

The main factor with SAD is the mood and behavioral shift with the calendar. Feeling out of sorts, cranky, and tired are mild symptoms. Others have worse symptoms that interfere with relationships and work. The treatment process for seasonal depression can vary based on the individual and their symptoms.

Traditional talk therapy is one way to cope and treat seasonal depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, also know as SSRIs, are a

type of antidepressant most commonly used to treat SAD. Spending time outdoors in the early morning to observe the natural sunlight can also help start off the day. The lack of sunlight during the later months of the year often leads to the depressive feeling every year.

A simple change in routine could make all the difference when it comes to seasonal depression. SAD is very common and often goes unnoticed to those around us. Knowing about seasonal depression and being able to recognize the patterns that are associated it allows for us to empathize with others.

The Chicanx Walkouts and its Aftermath in the Southland

Graphic by Jeffrey Barragan for El Paisano Media

A demonstration outside of a school building. Signs include "Educationnot Eradication and "Viva La Raza".

Jeffrey Barragan Reporter

jeffrey.barraganramos6969@my.riohondo.edu

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n March of 1968, in East Los Angeles, hundreds of Mexican-Americans, many now dubbed as “Chicanos,” walked out of school in protest for a better education. Six months later, Hispanic Heritage Week was recognized nationwide in the United States. They really kickstarted a change within the education system for Latin American students, and it helped to ignite the Chicanx Movement.

The East Los Angeles Walkouts were first centered in the local high schools. Abraham Lincoln High School, Belmont High School, Garfield High School, Roosevelt High School, and Woodrow Wilson High School were the first prominent leaders in the movement. The Walkouts had been in the process for several months during the 1967-1968 school year. They took place over a seven-day period between March 1-8th of that year.

Police violence towards peaceful protesters wasn’t surprising. Several Chicanx students who protested during those initial walkouts were arrested. In the KCET episode of Artbound “La Raza,” video clips from the walkouts show students and other demonstrators

being attacked by the police for no reason. It was a violent response to students demonstrating their right for equitable education.

Garfield High School in East Los Angeles was one of the schools that participated in the initial walkouts in 1968.

The high school later became famous for being the setting of the 1988 movie “Stand & Deliver.” The film stars legendary Mexican-American actor Edward Jame Olmos and Lou Diamond Phillips, who starred in “La Bamba” as Ritche Valens in the year before. The film is based on Garfield High School students who passed the Math Advanced Placement test in 1982.

The students were discriminated against, mainly because they were of Latin American descent. They were accused of cheating and were forced to take the AP test twice. They passed both times, proving they had never cheated.

That story took place 14 years after the Chicano Walkouts erupted in the halls of Garfield High School and other East Los Angeles schools. However, the effects of the Chicanx Walkouts didn’t take long to really be felt through the Southland.

They came much sooner after the protests took place.

The walkouts were part of a rise in consciousness and

Painting by Gee Vega

Students of Roosevelt High School in Boyle Heights were amongst those to walk out of there class rooms.

understanding of the racism and oppression Latin Americans had been experiencing in the US. It was a much different approach than the Pachucos had a couple decades earlier.

Before the walkouts, “Discrepancies in the education of Anglo and Mexican-American students surfaced in Los Angeles during the 1950s and 1960s.

Mexican-American students experienced a 60% dropout rate from high school,” according to the Library of Congress. Most brown students simply were afforded the same education as their white counterparts.

And it wasn’t coincidental, but after the 1968 walkouts, things improved for Latin American students, even if only slightly better than before.

In the period after, more Chicanxs started filling up college campuses and higher placement classes in high schools. “A year following the blowouts, enrollment of Mexican-American students at UCLA increased from 100 to nearly 2,000,” and it would only continue to increase, relays Michelle Vanegas in “Hispanic Heritage Month: The East L.A. Walkouts.”

Another year later, the Chicanx Moratorium and its

aftermath shook Whittier Blvd in East Los Angeles. Mexican-American reporter Ruben Salazar was dead. Two Brown Berets, members of a Chicanx activist and political organization, died during the battle against the unprovoked violence of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. La Raza Magazine captured the events in one of the magazine's most intense covers. The cover shows a deputy firing into the Silver Dollar bar where Salazar was killed. It was a major turning point in the Chicanx Movement of the 1960s and 1970s.

Hispanic Heritage Week was recognized for the first time under President Lyndon B. Johnson, six months after the East Los Angeles walkouts. It also happened to be around the same time the new school year would have started in Los Angeles County. President Johnson declared Hispanic Heritage Week beginning on September 15th.

President Ronald Reagan later expanded Hispanic Heritage Week into an entire month in August of 1988. It came two decades after President Johnson’s declaration of Hispanic Heritage Week. President Reagan also helped pass the Im-

migration Reform and Control Act two years earlier. Close to 3 million undocumented immigrants gained their citizenship with the Act, according to NPR. But Hispanic Heritage Month only acknowledges “Hispanic” countries, which coincidentally Chicanxs or Mexican-Americans are from.

The celebration of Hispanic Heritage in the US came during the same year the Chicano Movement began to gain momentum. Schools improved for the better; more Latin Americans got a slightly better opportunity of succeeding in a white America. Chicana/o/x Studies became a department at many colleges, including at Rio Hondo College. The Chicanx Movement seemed to be gaining more steam.

The Chicanx Movement as a whole is largely unknown by many today. The Walkouts are less known by the general public, but they made an important mark in furthering the education of Latin American students throughout Los Angeles County.

The demonstrations similarly motivated the Chicanx Moratorium of the 1970s against the Vietnam War and its many Mexican-American casualties.

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Wednesday October 6, 2021

EDITORIAL Some Things Will Never Change

Should More Food Products be Rebranded?

Lorenzo A rce

Digital Editor-In-Chief lorenzo.arce1393@my.riohondo.edu

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discussion board assignment was posted in a class a few weeks ago that asked students to analyze a speech from Barack Obama.

He addressed a crowd in Kenya about the changing morals in America and how other countries can do the same as well.

Obama said, “Every country and every culture has unique traditions that help make that country what it is. But just because something is a part of your past doesn’t make it right. It doesn’t mean that it defines your future.”

His message was spoken from the heart, but there are some countries that may never change. He emphasized, “Treating women as second-class citizens is a bad tradition. It holds you back…

These traditions may date back centuries; they have no place in the 21st century.”

It is true when Obama says that practices that oppress women and children are wrong.

However, he cannot push “moral” values on cultures that have always felt a certain way.

While Americans believe that women being stoned to death for showing too much skin is an unnecessary and extreme act of violence. The Taliban may view it as necessary. Both America’s and the Taliban's views are completely different. Just because Obama says, “What the Taliban is doing is wrong” doesn't mean they will change.

As of May earlier this year, they took over Afghanistan again.

Another example of something not changing in Afghanistan is the practice of sexual enslavement of minors. The centuries only practice known as Bacha bāzi involves the kidnapping of young boys who are forced to belly dance for older men at parties and are often sexually assaulted by the most powerful attendee. The practice is popular amongst Afghan police, army, and pro-American warlords.

According to the Newsline Institute, the practice was one of the contributing factors to the rise of the Taliban, who opposed Bacha Bāzi and punished its predators and victims alike. Soldiers of the United States and its allies were ordered not to interfere with the practice if observed because Afghan commanders deemed it “necessary”.

The United States can preach its morality to the world, but there it won't be heard by everyone. Other westernized nations such as Europe are a few of the only nations that can become as “accepting” as us while maintaining stability. Freedom may be achieved in some other places for a few years, but eventually, war will break out.

Photos by Ryan Leon for El Paisano Media Pearl Milling Company - formerly known as Aunt Jemima - has been the household name for pancakes in millions of homes for generations. The name may have been changed, but the sweet delicious flavor is still the same. In addition, the Tapatio and Cholula brands have been, and remain to this day, a popular salsa that many people choose to enjoy with their meals on a regular basis.

Ryan Leon

Opinion Co-Editor

ryan.leon7365@my.riohondo.edu

I

n the year 2020, things took a turn for the worse. Not just because of the COVID-19 pandemic; that’s a different beast on its own. No, it was because of systemic racism and hate that consumed the United States.

Society was a broken shell of itself, and people everywhere felt it. Not just those living in America, but also people on the other side of the world in different countries.

People of Asian ethnicity became victims of hate once the pandemic was being blamed on them; and it should go without saying that this ideology is completely flawed.

In conjunction with the pandemic, our once beautiful country became a place of despair. Especially for people of African American ethnicity.

Of course, I am referring to the George Floyd incident that happened back in May of 2020. A man losing his life is one thing; but a man losing his life at the hands of a police officer the way Floyd did is unfathomable.

After this occurrence, society had hit its boiling point, and nothing would ever be the same again. Once the riots ended and things began to calm down a bit, the world was left with big decisions to make.

So many things were still up in the air. What happens now? Where do we go from here?

At first glance, these simple questions may not hold a significant amount of weight.

However, they were questions

that would eventually ignite something many people may not have seen coming.

Besides necessary changes that were being discussed in the justice system, something else happened. Brand name foods also became wrapped up in all the drama. Food brands such as the famous Aunt Jemima, as well as Uncle Ben’s, were rebranded.

The Aunt Jemima name was no more as of June 2020.

Pearl Milling Company became the new name, which is based on the original mill that started making the mix in the first place. As for Uncle Ben’s, it is now Ben’s Original.

The decision to change the names of these products was ultimately because many people viewed them to be racially stereotypical. Which, by the way, is completely understandable.

The fact that these companies decided to do this is an example of just how powerful racial injustice can be.

The question I have is why did it not happen sooner?

Racial injustices have existed for hundreds of years.

So, what was it about the case of Floyd that caused such drastic measures? That is a question that can be left up to interpretation. Now, on top of the rebranded food products, this situation also expanded to other things.

The sports world and its many professional leagues made changes of their own too.

For example, and perhaps most notably, the NFL team formally known as the Washington Redskins is now the Washington Football Team.

Major League Baseball’s

Cleveland Indians are going to be the Cleveland Guardians at the start of next season.

So, since all these changes are happening, should more companies follow suit? I mean, it would make the most sense if they did.

Aunt Jemima and Uncle Ben are not the only brands with questionable mascots.

There is also the very wellknown Tapatio and Cholula brands.

Since others have already been changed, would it be fair to assume that brands that fall under different ethnicities will get the same treatment?

I can’t definitively say this as fact, but I would not be surprised if there are people out there who find the pictures on these salsa brands offensive.

Personally, as a Hispanic male, I don’t find them to be offensive; and I don’t think they should be rebranded. And while I am completely understanding about the changes made to the other brand names, I never thought of them as racist.

I grew up with those brands; and when I looked at them, I didn’t just see an image of an African American person.

I saw Aunt Jemima. And when I saw her face, all I thought about was the fact that I was going to eat delicious pancakes.

The same goes for the other brands I mentioned. They have been household names for generations. When I thought about Tapatio, the first thing that came to mind was that I hated it. It wasn’t: “Hey, why is there a picture of a Mexican man on this bottle?”

I never questioned that part of it; I only questioned

whether or not I would like it. I didn’t hate the product because of what it represented, but because I simply despised the taste of it.

The fact that a Mexican man adorned the packaging didn’t bother me, and it still doesn’t to this day.

Similarly, this ideology represents how I feel about Cholula as well. Those who have seen this brand know that the woman on the bottle looks to be of Mexican heritage.

Again, this does not bother me. All it does is let me know that it’s a salsa people use to add flavor to their meals. Can something else be used instead of the image of a Mexican woman? Sure, but I feel like the imagery does the culture justice in an unoffensive way.

However, I like to view things from both sides because there can’t just be one viewpoint for everything.

Particularly for a topic like this.

Just because I see things one way doesn’t mean that someone else won’t see it another. That’s why I believe it is extremely important to take other’s opinions into consideration.

I cannot speak on the behalf of others and how they feel. I can only convey my own feelings and experiences with these brands. That being said, I completely respect the opinions of others, and while I don't think it should happen, I would be on board with more name changes.

Overall, it is just a name; so, it would be perfectly fine if they do change just as long as we get the same great tasting items that all of these food brands have to offer.

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Meet Rio Hondo’s Women’s Water Polo 2021 Team Molly McCormick Sports Co-Editor

molly.mccormick3682@my.riohondo.edu

I

had the pleasure of meeting Coach Lim and the rest of the Women’s Water Polo team. They are a hard-working and determined group of girls with one common goal and that is to get better every day. For such a young team, they are all very passionate about their sport. Whether they have been playing for years or just started.

As I spoke with Coach Todd Lim, you could see the love he has for the game. Lim has been involved with Rio Hondo for a long time. Whether that be as an assistant coach when he attended Rio Hondo as a student.

Even during grad school in the nineties. He then took over from 2000-2002 as head coach and continued to teach here at Rio Hondo. When the time came yet again, he stepped up to be the head coach. Lim got right back on that pool deck. Like Lim says “Rio has always been

Isabella Ayala #4 is freshman here at Rio Hondo and her position is Utility/ Attacker.

home.” For it just being Lim by himself, he is an amazing coach and hopefully, he can recruit an assistant coach that he is in desperate need of. So if you're interested contact Coach Lim. Valentina Orozco is a second year here at Rio Hondo.

Orozco is the team goalie. She has been playing water polo for four years. Orozoco identifies herself as a shy person but “The team has helped me make friends and have a good college life.” She told me that they aren’t always in it to just build and grow as a team. Just speaking with her shows that any sport, not just water polo, can really help student athletes bond. Possibly even build a friendship that could even last a lifetime Joslyn Larson has been playing water polo for six years now. Larson is an attacker/center for the team. I asked what Lim is like from an athlete's perspective. She said that “He

Photos By Molly McCormick for El Paisano Media

dedicates practices and drills to one person and has them working on something. It’s really helpful so we can give attention to everyone.” This shows that Lim is a coach that not only wants the team to succeed but always helps every individual player improve in their way.

Amara Elsayed has been playing for about six years now.

Eslsayed is an attacker/utility for the team. Even though Elsayed is only a first-year here at Rio Hondo, she has been practicing with the team since middle school. Water polo is no easy sport. Like Eslayes said, “It’s very draining no matter how long you play it never gets any easier but it’s super fun when you know the rules and you just have to push through everything.” You can see that these girls are just enjoying themselves and that's all that matters when it comes to playing water polo.

Photos By Molly McCormick for El Paisano Media The overall team stats are 12.2 shots per game, 4.56 goals per game, and 14 assists in just 9 games.

Wednesday October 6, 2021

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“We all play to the best of our ability and we keep trying everyday even when we are tired because there are not that many of us.”

June Babishoff has been playing for seven years. It’s her third year here at Rio Hondo.

Babishoff is an attacker/center for the team. I asked her if she could tell me something about Rio Hondo Women's Water Polo and she said that “We all play to the best of our ability and we keep trying even when we are tired because there are not that many of us.” This shows the dedication and effort these girls put in daily. They work very hard despite not having as many players.

Sadly, a lot of the girls got their seasons cut short due to Covid. Yet it hasn't stopped them from loving the game.

From speaking to these girls, you can tell they are a very close and tight-knit group of girls. With these girls being so young, they can only get better individually and as a team. I can’t wait to see how they progress and grow throughout the season. I wish them the best of luck.

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Rio Hondo Speech and Debate is off to a Great Season Opener The Rio Hondo Forensics Speech and Debate team competed at the first two competitions of the year back to back this weekend. 2021 PSCFA Warm-Up Online Tour-

nament and 2021 Norene Hokett Invitational, October 2-3. With 23 colleges and universities present Rio Hondo is off to a great start.

This was a great season opener for Rio Hondo Speech and Debate. Please join us in congratulating the following students in their achievements: PSCFA Warm UP and Norene Hokett TOP SPEAKERS 7th Speaker Dulce Santana Open IPDA 4th Seed Adan Obregan Excellent in Open Drama 2nd Place Christina Pena Excellence in Open Prose/Poetry 3rd Place Dulce Santana Excellence in Novice Extemp 3rd Place Ethan Sepulveda Special Thanks to Coaches: Patricia Hughes and Edward Minasyan. *Courtesy of Speech Department Next in team’s view is Travel Tournament to San Diego October 22-24

Wednesday October 6, 2021

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VEGAN FASHION WEEK OCTOBER 9-8, 2021 IN LOS ANGELES

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El Paisano Newspaper Staff Jasmine Soria Editor-In-Chief

John Rodriguez News Editor/Photo Editor

Jonathon Carmona Sci & Tech Editor

Fernando Ramos Executive Sports Editor

Molly McCormick Noah Segovia Sports Co-Editor

Ryan Leon Opinion Co-Editor

Brandon Ramirez Opinion Co-Editors/Podcast

Gabi Ortiz Lifestyles Editor/A & E Co-Editor

Madeline Torres A & E Co-Editor Lorenzo Arce Digital EIC

Cassidy Anderson Digital Photo Editor

Carlos Jimenez Digital Sports Editor

Madeline Ekstrand Broadcast Director

Raymond Luna Social Media

Christopher Elias Marina Gutierrez Jeffrey Barragan Justin Gomez Valeria Yanez Yasmine Poot Gilbert Lazo Bryan Chavez Reporters

Poem of the Week By: Gigi Pew

Hiccups disappear when you drink water; But, why not mine?

Hiccups cause you to make funny sounds; Mine do too!

But they are often confound.

How do I make my hiccups go away?

When I hiccup I can’t sit up 3600 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, CA 90601

I can’t be picked up I need to go left, While others stare at me feeling bereft.

Where am I? I’m lost inside Where my inner neurons often collide.

Suddenly Without notice Only pain stays inside.

How do I make my hiccups go away?

Like Poetry?

Send in your poems to be printed in El Paisano by Friday at noon to our EIC, Jasmine Soria at : jasmine.soria5406 @my.riohondo.edu.

Submit Today! *all poems are subject to be reviewed there is no guarentee you will be printed, make sure your name and contact information is in the email