La Cima Magazine by El Paisano News Media

3305 Tyler Ave, El Monte, CA 91731 Store Phone Number: (626)672-0383 Fax Number: (626)672-0396

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I n T h i s I s s u e

33 Interviews

Profiles

Features

Montebello Caters to Its Seniors...................................... pg 33

Cycling for Life.............................. pg 15

Summer Nights Chinatown.... pg 9

Building High and Wide With SoCal Tents..................................... pg 17

The Art of Aikido........................... pg 13

The Dungeons & Dragons Adventure League............... pg 45 Run For The Oceans............ pg 57

Orlando Carrera-Garcia A Cabo San Lucas Self- Made Entrepeneur.................................... pg 19 Homeless Helping Homeless.......................................... pg 37

A Community Ran on Cardboard....................................... pg 33 A Quiet Gem: Spreading Love Through Poetry at LA Pride................................................... pg 53 Low-n-Slow And For The Freaks................................................ pg 63

47 Reviews

Into The Forest: A Post Apocalyptic Coming of Age Story.................................................. pg 47 Rocketman...................................... pg 51

News

A Tradition of Giving................. pg 27

61 Opinion

The Stigma of The V Word............................................. pg 23

Sports

LaMelo Ball is Back.............. pg 61

From The Editors When we agreed to go on this journey we had no idea what in the world we were getting ourselves into. In fact, in some way, we still donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. All we did know was that we wanted to create something different, something artsy. Something all our own. This magazine is a product of a lot of hard work. But for all that we did as editorial board, it does not compare to the long hours and hard work that our staff did. This magazine wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been possible without them. Our communities are important to us and we hope that this magazine is proof of that. We wanted to share the good, the bad, and the ugly. We hope that the stories within this magazine show not just the diversity and struggle, but also the love and unity within. La Cima is a student run, student created magazine that is years in the making. Each issue is unique to its createros, so we hope that we have pushed the envelope and raised the proverbial bar for the next group. We want to thank all the students that came before us and paved the way for this issue to be created. We would also like to thank anyone and everyone that was involved in the making of this summer issue. But, more importantly, we want to thank La Profe Carrera for all her guidance and patience as this set of newbies takes on a challenge like none they had faced before. We would not have succeeded without her.

Brayan Altamirano

Jesus Manriquez

Vincent Franco

Nicholas Juarez

Ignacio Cervantes

Diana Juarez

Noah Garcia 7

SUMMER NIGHTS

Summer Celebration In Chinatown Bringing to light the aesthetics and joy of Chinese culture and community

or a decade, Chinatown Summer Nights has been LAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premiere celebration of Chinese culture. Hosted by the Chinatown Business Improvement District(in association with KCRW 89.9FM) the event hosted multiple activities such as : interactive workshops, performances, local shops and vendors, bars,

LA food trucks, local restaurants, artists with live music and dancing. Hundreds came out to Central and Mandarin Plaza to enjoy the dragon dancers, overseen by the historic paper lanterns that were in abundance throughout the plazas. Ranging from all sizes hundreds of fireworks and poppers were being held high as if some sort of offering to the gods. They were being sold from vendors outside of stores, as the smell of burnt gunpowder accompanied by small bellows from people of all ages popped their recent purchases. If you had a little spending money, it was a perfect occasion to look to buy a souvenir or knick knack to remember the occasion by. Tables were packed with people enjoying

Story by: Jake Laurell

Photos by: Noah Garcia

the wide selection of food trucks available. Dancing and music filled the ambiance making the event truly feel like a truly unique LA summer night experience. “I think it is cool because a lot of times, just regular folks can you know come and look at local art, local vendors. And also art can feel very exclusionary sometimes. You know the average person is not going to walk up into a gallery and drop five grand on a piece. And for us it is not about that.” said Justine Patrick, Co-Owner of Thunderbachs Art, who has made this year her second after the positive response she had received. Oscar Rosales, a local artist and vendor, has also made this year his second time being involved in the Chinatown Festival. “As a seller of art and someone who comes out here for artistic influence I think that it did a terrific LC

job of bringing the community together. Especially at night when there is a bigger turnout of people and stated his excitement about coming next year. “I think this whole thing is pretty cool, I have never been here before and this was kind of like a spur of the moment of kind of thing that we rewarded ourselves with. But this event is really cool! The food is great and would love to come back again.” Kaitlyn Rush said, a local angeleno who attended the event. “If we were to really think about it, there is food, there is music, there is beer, good times, and summer and felt like this is it. This is should be, my good time! Harrison H. stated when asked on why he came out to Chinatown Summer Nights. “There are so many different cultures here. It seemed like a great event to meet

your neighbors. Like I just got done traveling from Ireland. And literally this is my second day back the first thing I noticed just the lack of the LA mixing pot that Ireland doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have. And the first thing I thought was man, I am lucky to live here,â&#x20AC;? said Bob M., a local attendee. So while the opportunities of the summer

nights may seem infinitesimal, the shining example of community and family that is Chinatown Summer Nights, shall remain as the fantastic outing itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been for years. July 19th, and August 10th are this years dates for the event - where from five to midnight, the community can come together to witness all that Chinatown Summer Nights

had to offer. Parking for the festival is in Bamboo Plaza Parking Structure and Blossom Plaza Parking Garage. Parking is $1.00 per hour for the first two hours, $2.00 after the third hour, and $1.00 each 30 minutes thereafter, with $8.00 for a day pass.

THE ART OF AIKIDO We live in a world where people are constantly bullied, physically abused, and violated in horrendous ways with no way of protecting themselves. Learning self defence should be a priority for everyone.

year. By the end of the year he was getting in and out of trouble every single week. As he was uncertain about his future, Castro decided to apply to work for the city of Pico Rivera.

Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exactly what Miguel Castro has been teaching for several years. Castro, who is a 5th degree black belt, has been a self defense instructor for over thirty years. He was born on February 20th, 1955 in Whittier, but raised in the city of Montebello.

He continued to pursue his interest in self-defense as he learned Aikido at the age of thirty-three. Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art as a synthesis of martial arts, philosophy, and religious beliefs. He was inspired by Bruce Lee to take on all these self-defense classes. Aikido was the most interesting of the martial arts to Castro due to the longevity and the idea of training the body as he gets older.

Castro was frightened of entering high school knowing he would be tormented every second of the day. As he began high school at El Rancho, he faced many bullies and was unable to protect himself or others from harm. High school was very difficult for Castro, as he tried everything to fit in with his classmates and make El Rancho a safer school for all students. He participated in soccer, football, and basketball for the Dons. He tried everything to keep his friends safe, although being labeled as a jock did not help the cause. As he began to run out of options, he decided to take self-defense classes his senior

Fast forward thirty years later, he is an Aikido instructor teaching

“If something hurts that’s okay, if you don’t hurt that means something is wrong” is a phrase Castro repeats after every exercise. He considers each member of his class as a part of his second family. adults and senior citizens at Aikido-AI which is located in Whittier. Castro who is now a black belt at the age of sixty four has been grateful that he has never been in a situation where he has been forced to use his martial arts. Throughout his whole life he has encountered many bullies, but he has chosen to use his words rather than his actions to protect himself and the people around him. Castro has spent over thirty years mastering the art of Aikido and has never loved anything more than this martial art. He has been teaching his class for the last three decades. Before they begin classes, they always begin on a prayer to the creator of the art of Aikido. The proper dojo etiquette at the start of each Aikido practice is a formal bow to the sensei and two claps symbolizing unity. After a demonstration of a move is done, they practice on their own with partners. As a fun fact, they use their entire bodies for these exercises. One move on the left and the next move on the right.

Castro is a 5th dan in the martial arts of Aikido. He has been one of the few uchi-deshi at Aikido AI. After completing more than 30 years of Aikido, Castro is now qualified to open his own school. Castro has been teaching beginning and advanced classes at the dojo for the last decade. He previously participated in Kepo Karate and San Soo Kung Fu. His Aikido class begins on Monday at 7pm at Aikido Ai 6725 Comstock Ave, Whittier, CA 90601.

"If Something hurts, that's okay. If you don't hurt, that means something is wrong." - Miguel Castro Story by: Gilberto Espana

Photos By: Jennifer Espana

Cycling for Life E

and emotionally. Day two was the hardest for Flores. They rode a 109 mile stretch from Santa Cruz to King City with degrees reaching 108. Flores faced dehydration during the ride making many trips to the medical tent. Despite the medic stops, the mental and physical strains Flores faced, he managed to finish the ride within the first 400 people. The cyclists were greeted with people cheering and chanting as they crossed the finish line. “Not many can say that they biked 500+ miles from San Francisco to Los Angeles,” he said. The money raised helps those suffering from HIV and AIDS in the LGBTQ community. The mission of the ride is to provide free HIV/ AIDS medical care, testing, and prevention services to San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Los Angeles LGBT Center. This year’s HIV/AIDS LifeCycle sponsors include FedEx, Gilead, Wells Fargo, and United Airlines. Cannondale was the official bike sponsor. The AIDS/LifeCycle started in 1993 and has raised over $200 million and has had 42,000 riders participating in the journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

nthusiastic and funny Rio Hondo Counselor, Julio Flores, fulfilled his “dirtythirty” birthday wish by participating in the largest HIV/AIDS fundraiser, Cycling for Life. This included a 7-day, 545 mile bicycle ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles. “It started as an opportunity to do something more meaningful, as I hit a birthday milestone. I wanted to forgo a birthday party and instead celebrate the lives of those affected by HIV/ AIDS, both present and past” said Flores. This ride was extra special because it raised a historic $16.7 million and roughly 2,200 cyclists participated in the ride. Flores had a goal of raising $10,000 and surpassed that goal by raising roughly $10,813 in only six weeks. “Without the help and generosity of the Rio Hondo staff and their donations meeting this goal would not be possible and he is forever grateful for them,” he said. Counseling receptionist, Patricia Castillo said, “ I love it! It’s nice to have someone that takes the time to help others and I love that he has met his donation goal.” Flores attended spinning classes to prepare for the long journey, however, as prepared as he was the race took a toll on him mentally

Story by: Nicholas Juarez

Photos by: Brayan Altamirano

From Local To

Big Time It once started as a residential tent set-up company, now it assembles Grammys Judy Garcia, Vice President of SoCal Tents and Events Rentals, is perched at The Dog Pound – a section in parking lot nine on the campus of California State University, Long Beach. Her and her squad are the chosen brigade to build what will be the Special Olympics Southern California Summer Games’ 50 year anniversary edition over the next three days.

“I’m proud of how hard we’ve worked to become the company we are today.”

- Judy Garcia

Jerry Jones (left) and the Dallas Cowboys’ preseason camp in Oxnard, Calif. has been shaded by SoCal Tents since the 2012 NFL season. Photo courtesy: SoCal Tents

“My job is to build partnerships that are conducive to our operations and organization,” Bill Fields, Assistant Vice President of Supporter Management for Southern California Special Olympics, said about his decision to take on SoCal Tents and partner Axis Project Management as its co-head event organizers for 15 plus years: “SoCal Tents has been a great partner with us and, supported by Axis Project Management, the two of them together bring the partnership that defines the description to the SCSO.” The event features 1,100 plus athletes

battling for gold, silver and bronze medals and ribbons over two days of competition. But, for Garcia, a Whittier resident who’s been in the tent rental game since 1990, and SoCal, it wasn’t always large scale events. The South El Monte company, which began in 2007 by providing mostly local, residential parties, has sprouted over time into one of the leading tent organizers in all of Southern California. As we walk past the giant and blue Walter Pyramid on the CSULB campus, Garcia mentioned that the first year was all about Story and Photos by: Ignacio Cervantes

“This is what I’ve done my whole life. And I’m going to keep doing it forever.”

- Jimmy Duran

Super Bowl XLIX Photo courtesy: SoCal Tents

taking whatever work the team can get. And the team wasn’t much of a team at that point. SoCal Tents began as a trio with financial backer Richard Martin handing the keys to Garcia. Her first move was to hire an operations manager, Jaime “Jimmy” Duran. Duran, a native of Jalisco, Mexico, would become the most crucial portion of the company’s early success as his heavy labor with no other permanent employees to help him allowed Garcia to continue sealing all the events possible. Duran’s dedication soon allowed for a threeman building crew which began covering lots of areas of SoCal and made the company money. “We made almost a million dollars that first LC

year, which was ok.” Garcia said, “But I had a lot of contacts because I had been [in the field] for so long. So after the first year we added four, five guys that were on board because we started getting work.” And then, the Grammys came calling. “Once I did that, everyone started calling.” Garcia recalls. It’s been eight years since that fundamental pledge with the prestigious award ceremony which has launched this small town company into what is now a successful provider all around the country. Since its inception, SoCal Tents has joined forces with ProEm National Event Services, a

mix of multiple rental-industry leaders around the country, to equip events like the Super Bowl, The Academy Awards, the aforementioned Grammys and, for the eighth year in a row including this summer, the Southern California Special Olympics. The success allowed Garcia to move from SoCal’s initial 2,000 square foot warehouse, to 4,000 square feet in 2009, to 2012 to where they are now at 12,000 square feet - all in South El Monte. And plans to move to a 20,000 square foot warehouse within the year are being negotiated.As for the next few years, “retirement!” Garcia said with an optimistic grin.

Orlando Carrera-Garcia A Cabo San Lucas Self Made Entrepreneur How He Turned A Tourist Paradise Into His Livelihood W

hen you walk through the streets of Cabo San Lucas, past the night clubs and small market places, you will find yourself glancing on the pueblos that the residents live in. Poverty has taken over the lives of many of the residents of the neighborhoods that surround the tourist destination. The biggest money industry in the little beach town is tourism so Ba ja California resident Orlando Carrera-Garcia took advantage of the opportunity. Carrera-Garcia has spent twelve years of his life walking up and down the beaches of Cabo San Lucas Mexico selling all types of water activities to tourist that fill the beaches. Everyday from 9am to 5pm Carrera-Garia is out there talking vacationers from around the world. “I work like a donkey so one day I could eat like a king.” So far he has spent over 35 thousand hours out on the beach. In that time span the average american worker would have worked around 24 thousand hours. “I didn’t want to start working on the beaches but it was necessary.”

Carrera-Garcia had to take care of his growing family and to do that he had to sell all types of water activities to the tourists. These water activities are anything from jet skis, snorkeling, and boat tours to the famous Cabo San Lucas Arch Carrera-Garcia, like many parents, knew that a better life waited for his kids in America. “I have my two kids, one boy and one girl.” As soon as he was able to afford it he sent his only children to Texas is hopes that they could better themselves. “She and him live in Dallas, Texas. They left when she was 15 and he was 12.” His daughter attended the University of Texas, and his son has taken some college courses, at least to his father’s knowledge. “She started the highest school and

“I work like a donkey so that one day I could eat like a king.” - Orlando Carrera-Garcia

Story and Photos by: Madelyn Gastelum

finished, my boy, I am not so sure. I sent money to them in the US so that way they could go to school.” Carrera-Garcia now has four grandchildren with a fifth on its way soon. He gets to see many pictures but he has only met them a few times throughout their lives. The savvy beach salesman is 53 years old and plans for retirement are nowhere in the near future. “I will retire when I die.” Carrera-Garcia joked as he answered because to him the thought had never occurred. Unlike in America when some people his age have already planned their retirement

party. “You know what, in my opinion, Mexicans like to work. No matter what happens. If I am not working I feel bad. I always have to be doing something.” The work on the beach isn’t always consistent, and neither is the pay. During the off season Carrera-Garcia could get paid little to nothing for his 8 hour day. But at the peak of the tourist season he could be making up to $400 off of his commission. “I don’t like to work for somebody that gives me a salary. I hate that. I want to be my own

“I will retire when I die.”

“I didn’t want to start working on the beaches but it was necessary.”

boss.” The 12 years have worn on Carrera-Garcia because he is barefoot out in the sun for 8 hours straight with a break as more of a question then a requirement. “I don’t have the same energy, my bones are not the same. They are old. But I am out here each day.” Carrera-Garcia, like every great business man, never forgets a face. He makes it a point to remember his customers even if they only see him once a year. Carrera-Garcia is always laughing and enjoying himself, rain or shine. He has become a face that tourist will seek out when they want to go snorkeling or ride a jet ski for an hour or more. His ability to

“You know what, in my opinion, Mexicans like to work. No matter what happens. If I am not working I feel bad. I always have to be doing something.” - Orlando Carrera-Garcia connect with the tourist has helped him with business. He’s even made some friendships along the way, calling some vacationers his “brothers and friends” when he finally gets to see them again on their annual vacation. When you head down to the peninsula of

Ba ja California and find yourself on the sands of Cabo San Lucas keep and eye out for Orlando Carrera-Garcia because he definitely will be looking out for you, in case you want to enjoy some of the water activities he has to offer. 21

The Stigma “ of the “ When we think of illnesses that are prevalent in 2019, we usually think of the common cold. Or pneumonia. Or even strep throat. What doesn’t come to mind is an ailment that was declared eliminated in 2000: measles. With the growing number of measles cases in the United States, it’s curious to see a growing vaccination crisis in the U.S. Or rather, there seems to be a growing anti-vaccination problem. Over the last 20 years, there’s been a notion going around that vaccines cause autism. Despite scientific evidence that disproves this, people are choosing to not have their children vaccinated. This cause and effect relationship Despite scientific evidence that proves otherwise, many people believe that vaccines cause autism in children.

”

”Word

between vaccines and autism can be traced back to 1998, according to Children’sHospitalofPhiladelphia. edu. Now discredited doctor Andrew Wakefield published a paper that claimed the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine caused intestinal inflammation, harmful proteins entering the bloodstream and the brain, and the development of autism. This finding was later disproved, but the notion stuck with the general public and inspired generations of anti-vaxxers. With the prevalent outbreak of measles in 2019, vaccinations are a must. The CDC reports that in 2019 alone, the U.S has seen the most reported cases of measles since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. There have been 1,022 reported cases of measles as of June 2019, an increase from the 372 cases in 2018. According to aappublications. org, scientists in Denmark studied the correlation between the MMR vaccine and autism in children. The study looked at 657, 461 children born between 1999 and 2010. Of the children studied, 6,517 were diagnosed with autism. When they compared children who had and hadn’t received the MMR vaccine, the fully adjusted hazard rate was 0.93, which indicated there was no risk in developing autism. They found no correlation between the MMR vaccine and children developing autism. Many vaccines, such as MMR, are given to children around 12-15 months of age. This is typically the age range where behavioral symptoms of autism appear. So, many people create a cause and effect relationship out of

two separate events (which is a logical fallacy, by the way). The problem lies in the stigma of the “A” word: autism. The word lingers in the back of parents’ heads when they believe their child isn’t developing like “the other kids.” The fear of potentially having an autistic child shouldn’t dissuade parents from vaccinating them. There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that vaccines cause autism. End of discussion. Spread the word. Story and Photos by: Samuel Garcia

Protestors at Balboa Park, San Diego showed up in droves to get their message across: do not vaccinate your children. LC

A Tradition of Giving One of Whittier’s oldest standing churches, First Christian Church, was first formed in 1895. In 1924, the ministry settled itself in Uptown Whittier at 6355 South Greenleaf Avenue, or what Reverend Beamer calls the “blue box.” A church that was once overflowing with attendees has steadily dropped as the years have passed. As a result, First Christian Church’s congregation has voted to end it’s ministry and hand over the deeds of the campus to Christian Church Homes ministry at the end of 2019. Christian Church Homes ministry is a nonprofit organization that has built and managed successful low income housing properties for senior citizens across seven states, for over 50 years now. The ministry has proposed to preserve the historical building and convert the property into 75 to 80, one bedroom apartments with an added parking structure, and community center in the building’s maintained sanctuary.

Reverend Layne Beamer, the church’s pastor for the past nine years, recognizes that the congregation can no longer keep up with maintaining the campus, and has acknowledged that the campus could be put to better use by a ministry that can truly continue to change lives in bigger numbers. First Christian Church’s congregation knows that by handing over their campus to First Christian Homes, they exemplify stewardship as a ministry, and will continue to serve the community of Whittier. Maintaining the building’s history is the ministry’s main goal, as the proposal calls for a majority of the buildings history to remain in tact, like the glass stained windows and the very heart of the sanctuary. With the redevelopment, First Christian Church’s congregation hopes that the heart of the sanctuary will continue to be occupied by the community for events, recitals, worship services for future tenants, or even

Story by: Kiana Arvizu

Photos by: Vincent M. Franco

wedding ceremonies. Although, First Christian Church’s decision to end their ministry is final, the proposal has only just reached city staff. First Christian Church’s congregation and Christian Church Homes hopes that the proposal reaches Whittier’s city council soon, but Reverend Beamer suggests that it could take anywhere from a few months to a whole year. If the proposal were to not be approved, the campus will most likely be sold to another ministry who will continue to use the church for the same function. However, Reverend Beamer suggests that with the redevelopment, the property would finally get the remodeling that the building needs to continue to withstand for years to come. The redevelopment would ensure that the building be brought up to par for senior living. If the proposal is not passed, the next ministry would not be required to make sure the building is up to date with safety hazard standards.

The end of a ministry comes as a bittersweet reality to many, including the 95 year old members who Rev. Beamer says have never worshipped anywhere else but here at First Christian Church with the disciples of Christ. However, Reverend Beamer and the Church’s congregation agrees it has been just hanging in there, and so they feel it’d be best to turn over the property to a ministry that can guarantee a greater purpose for the campus, and fill it’s halls once more. With so much history to preserve, First Christian Whittier will offer all of its archives, photos, and other memorabilia to the Disciples of Christ National Historical Society. The congregation will also offer much of it’s memorabilia to Whittier’s local library and museum since the church holds rich historical value to the city as well. To celebrate the end of a ministry, the church will continue to host multiple concerts, worship services, and even a heritage night, where they will

welcome guests to come worship, Reverend Beamer says that the and display the church’s historical congregation really considers documents and memorabilia for this not the conclusion, but the all to see. In addition, the ministry continuation of a ministry, and hopes to be able to make digital “hopefully the redevelopment of copies of most records so that the the church will be part of an our public may always have access to [First Christian Church] ongoing the historical background of the legacy here.” This congregation Church and building online. exemplifies what it means to love The proposal thy neighbor, Reverend Beamer says that the currently sits and First congregation really considers this not Christian Church with the city the conclusion, but the continuation staff, who ministry, hopes is currently to serve as of a ministry and “hopefully the going over witness to other redevelopment of the church will be the logistics of churches, that a part of our [First Christian Church] there are other the project. If ongoing legacy here.” the city staff ways in which stands behind church buildings Christian Church Homes’ plans for could continue to be used in order redevelopment, then the proposal to continue serving God and the will be passed over to city council, community. who will eventually open up For those interested in joining public forums for the public to get the Disciples of Christ and the involved. The decision can go on community of Whittier, updates for a year, as it lies in the hands and dates for upcoming events of the city, but the congregation will be posted on the ministry’s continues to remain hopeful. Facebook church page, First Although “it is bittersweet,” Christian Whittier.

Shame Shame you trying on you on trying steal to stealpeopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other people's other hard hard earned money. earned money

Maybe try getting a job!

Illustration by: Madelyn Gastelum

Montebello Caters to its Seniors low to moderate income seniors. For example, this service will be available on Wednesdays and Thursdays during the months of February through April.”

Who funds the programs, services, and the classes?” “Does the city of Montebello help out the center funding? “The programs, services, and the classes are funded by business and local business in the area with the state of California help. The city of Montebello does not funded this center and help out. But, Most of funding comes from the state of California, plus they come once, or twice a years for taxes and such and make sure the center is in good shape.”

rystal Jaimez, 41, is the Director of Operations at The Montebello Senior Citizen Center which helps people who are retire. The center has classes and services to help the community of Montebello. Jaimez is one of the key people in charge that makes sure the center runs and has a ma jor impact on the Montebello community. Jaimez and I had a sit down Q&A interview for about 40 minutes in her office to talk about services that they offer to the Senior citizens including to younger people with the art class.

What kind of services does this center offer to senior citizens and the Montebelo community? “The center offers many services like the Montebello Senior Center partners with the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) to offer the Tax Aide Program. The Tax Aide Program is a free tax preparation program for

What kind of clubs meet here at the center? “The clubs are Silver Years Club meets every Tuesday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm in the South wing. Gad-A-Bouts meets every Wednesday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm in the upstairs hall of Senior Center.Happy Years meets every Thursday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm in the South wing of Senior Center. TOPS (Taking off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Thursday at 9:00 am – 11:00 am downstairs of Senior Center. VIPs (Very Important People) meets every Friday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm upstairs of Senior Center. Club Latino meets every (1st, 3rd and 5th) Saturday of the Month from 1:00 am – 4:00 pm upstairs of Senior Center.”

is provided Monday through Friday at 11:00 am through 12:15 pm, for senior citizens 60 years of age or older for $3.00 per meal and$5.00 per meal for seniors 59 years of age and under. Reservations must be made a day in advance and registration begins daily at 9:30 am.”

What kind if classes do you offer here? “A Painting Class Is scheduled on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm. Basic Painting is an ideal class for the beginning and expert student-artist who wants the opportunity to paint in a group setting including an open painting and craft time is scheduled on Mondays and Tuesdays from 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm and is open to all artists who are interested in working on their projects on their own in the creative and fun environment. We have dances are hosted by Senior Clubs for a nominal fee weekly. Studies show that dancing can help you lose weight, stay flexible, reduce stress, make friends, and more. Dances take place on Thursdays and Fridays from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Weekend dances take place on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Saturday of each month from 12:30 pm to 3:30 p.m. We included a free beauty & you class Thursdays 11:00am2:00pm and Group Tai Chi and karate classes throughout the week.”

What is the Senior Nutritional Lunch Program at the center? “It is located downstairs, because were upstairs in the building. The program is a service is provided in concert with Los Angeles County and by the YWCA of San Gabriel Valley. Lunch Story and Photos by: Corey Wiltz

A Community Ran on Cardboard Story and Photos by: Estevan Macias

Creating a heaven With the recent resurgence of video games and social media, people now interact online and as that makes it easier for people to hang out with each other it diminishes real life interaction. Nick Altamirano owner of Crazy Nicks Gamer Heaven saw this becoming more prominent which caused him to set out on a mission to make a place where people can hang out and interact. In 2010 he joined Jimmyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hobby Shop in Whittier where vendors sell all sorts of merchandise from baseball cards to comic books and Altamirano became the main vendor/curator for trading card games. Being the curator meant he would organize tournaments and events encouraging people to come in. Starting off with only two tables and selling his own collection of cards, he would start to grow a community that would get larger with each year passing by. Some problems would arise of course with trying to get new people interested to needing more space for inventory and players, but those were all minor issues that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change his mind that he had accomplished what he had set out to do.

"I knew I finally created my own community when I kept seeing the same people at the shop and they didn't feel like just customers or friends, they felt like family"

A Home Away From Home As of today the shop has created a strong bond in the community as people meet Friday through Sunday to hang out with people and play cards. Even new players are met with open arms as veteran players there give advice while the workers can provide free trial product to learn how to play some of the games they offer and point them in the right direction on what to get next. For the players who want to have more of a challenge the shop hosts money tournaments twice a month where around 40 players come

and battle out for a cut of the cash used to enter. Nick feels heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have the shop till he grows old as he knows places like this need to stay around for the health of youth because everyone needs a home away from home. The shop is open from Friday to Sunday located at 12327 Whittier Blvd, Whittier, CA 90602 and to see the events they have you can check out their Instagram, Facebook, or Twitch come by if you want to play, watch, or ask any questions!

Info facebook.com/jimmysusashow

instagram.com/ gamer.heaven777

twitch.tv/gamerheavengames

Just two miles Northeast of Rio Hondo College and a quarter-mile into the riverbed beyond Whittier Narrows Recreation Center, Johnny Wood, a 53-yearold homeless man from Detroit, Michigan is living his version of the American dream. Along with his partner Veronica Torres, Wood used his intuitive abilities to create a community which people wouldn’t think existed. A three-story home rests high enough above the treacherous waters flowing down the Rio Hondo river, making it the perfect safe haven for a dozen other homeless people in the area. “I have everything. I have a computer, a phone, internet, a generator. Everything.” Wood said as he proudly showed off his home that he built himself using scraps found around town. Initially, the home was assembled as a shelter that would house him, Torres, and the couple’s pets. However, as time went by he began housing others in need. A son of Air Force veterans that owned a pizzeria, Wood began his life after high school in culinary arts for seven years in Atlantic City. Since then, Wood hasn’t stayed in any one spot for more than a few months, making a living as a door-to-door salesman for a few years while he traveled across the states.

Homeless LC

HELPING

“If I make her comfortable and she’s happy, that’s all that matters.”

Ho m e l e ss Story by: Ignacio Cervantes

Photos by: Brayan Altamirano

Despite his giving manner and positive outlook, Wood declined to comment on how he went from being a chef and salesmen to an outcast panhandler. Instead, he talked about how he spends his days. The two bedroom home that’s equipped with a living room laid a heavy toll on Wood’s hands, which are dirty and calloused. “I’m a homeless now. But I work,” said Wood with a sense of pride in his hard work. He is a man that’s used to a fastpaced style of living, spending most of his early life moving from town to town in the Midwest and East Coast. He settled down in the Whittier Narrows area after meeting Torres, who’s been in Los Angeles since birth. “It’s for her,” Wood replied when asked as to why he was finally settling down. He gestured to Torres, who remained under the covers in their bedroom with their two dogs, Junebug and Ladybug. In a few hours, Wood and Torres

will take the usual Thursday quartermile trek to building 21 on the grounds of Whittier Narrows where the Comprehensive Housing Information and Referrals for People Living with HIV/AIDS program (CHIRPLA), sets up hot showers and provides hot meals and water every Thursday for people in need during its resource fair. CHIRPLA is a housing information and referral program dedicated to preventing homelessness and improving people’s quality of life. Louis Guerrero, a recreation services supervisor at Whittier Narrows, is one of the men in charge of setting up for the occasion. “Different departments collaborate to bring in resources like cell phones, DPSS social services, the service that provides birth certificates, public defenders to expunge records,” Guerrero said. A shower, a fresh pair of socks and underwear, and a chance to interact with others are the reasons why Wood

decided to make his way to the fair. If there is one thing Wood said he can’t go without, it’s being hungry and having fresh undergarments. “If you ask anyone around here who Johnny Wood is, most likely they’ll say ‘the guy that feeds everybody.’ ‘Cause I figure, if a person is not hungry, he’s going to be ok. And if they need some clothes and I have some, I help them out,” Wood said. As the benefactor of his community, Wood admits that there are people who take advantage of him. But, his theory is that even though someone might steal or profit from him without giving anything in return, those who need love the most are sometimes the ones who deserve it the least. His ‘good things happen to good people’ outlook comes to life every now and then. Torres

described one of his most fortunate days when he found $3,700 in the garbage. “By the way he was being treated badly by some of the people he was feeding, he deserved to find those $3,700,” she said. Even though he has a basketball hoop with a basketball, a radio control airplane, and even flat screen, plasma televisions, Wood says his favorite pastime is looking inside garbage bins. This hobby has allowed him to make this once empty area of dirt and bushes into a somewhat normal way of living with his girlfriend and pets. As for the future, Wood says he wants to marry Torres and dreams of owning a house one day. “I don’t want to be here my whole life,” Wood said. “One day I’ll have a real home.”

“We're not bad people, we just want to live.”

- Johnny Wood

around Dungeons and Dragons continues to grow like with these three individuals.

[Q]What got you into Dungeons and Dragons? [A-Christian Howells] I had a friend back

The Dungeons and Dragons Adventure League

abletop games such as Dungeons and Dragons have created such a small, yet tight community of individuals. D&D is by far the most popular tabletop game to the point where the owners, Wizards of the Coast have made an official way to help new players and experienced players learn and interact with one another through the Adventures League, which is held at most card/board game shops around the United States every week. There are three types of people that play games like D&D: inexperienced players that need help to understand how the game is played, experienced players that know almost everything to know about the game and finally there are the Dungeon Masters, the individuals LC

that run the games, create the world and the many things/people the other players interact with. D&D in truth is a game centered around fun and imagination with other individuals. Everyone that has played games like D&D have a story to tell. Whether that is the characters they’ve made with their group, silly antics they’ve gotten themselves into or saving the world from some mischievous force. With D&D being a much easier game to get into now thanks to things such as the Adventures League, the internet being a great source for any information about D&D you need, and books/supplies for the gamebecoming cheaper every year. The accessible and community centered

in high school that was pretty into tabletop games. He told me stories about his adventures with his group every week. He did make it seem pretty cool, but it wasn’t exactly something I was too into. I’ve know about D&D for years, but it wasn’t something I thought I would like. I started playing D&D back in September after buying some Yu-Gi-Oh cards and seeing people playing D&D in the store. So, later I bought the starter set from Barnes and Noble, but I had a

tough time understanding the instructions. So, I decided to go to the Adventures League on Wednesday to help me out.

[A-Geoffrey Mann] My dad played D&D back in the 70s. He was the one that got me into D&D when I was twelve, I believe. I had a few people, both my age and adults. I got to experience D&D with those people in my neighborhood and since then I’ve been playing D&D.

[A-Ollie Gomez] My best friend in high school, Ramiro, who’s still my best friend to this day, joined this club centered around tabletop gaming. I decided to join since he’s my best friend and I had nothing better to do. I was a

high school sophomore with no job and nothing better to do. I thought this would give me something to do. After the first session, I joined the club and started playing new tabletop games every week like Call of Cthulhu and Cyberpunk 2020. Had a good time making characters and joking around with them. Over the three years I was in that club, our group got into so many stupid situations like accidentally firing an arrow at one of our feet and falling off cliffs. Good times.

[Q] How does it feel being a new player for Dungeons and Dragons? [A-CHristian Howells] I’m not gonna lie being a new player is tough, but I had the Adventure League to help me. You can pretty much find Adventures League at any card shop every week. They’ll help you out with anything you need.

[Q] How easy was it for you to get into Dungeons and Dragons?

[Q]- Do you have any advice for new players that might want to play tabletop games such as Dungeons and Dragons?

[A-Christian Howells] It was difficult for me

[A-Geoffrey Mann] Bring a lot of dice, but

at first. I tried to read the instructions for the game, but I had absolutely no idea what I was reading. I did do some research and they told me to go to the Adventures League at any card shop. The Adventures League happen every Wednesday so I decided to fix my schedule to try it out. I had a great time after that. They taught me how to play the game, create my character and how the game works. After that, I decided to keep coming every Wednesday to keep playing. I’ve made a few friends here thanks to the Adventure League. So, it’s been pretty great.

[A-Geoffrey Mann] Well, I started playing Dungeons and Dragons back in the nineties with my dad and tabletop games weren’t as popular as they are now, but I managed. Got to play with a bunch of kids and adults in the neighborhood.

in all seriousness, you just gotta work with the ones running the game. The adventure League is pretty great for new players that might be confused or scared about tabletop games. So, I would recommend the Adventure League,doing some of your own research and playing with a group you might like.

[Q]What made you want to take the work of being a Dungeon Master for the Adventures League? [A-Ollie Gomez] I wanted to hopefully introduce some new players to tabletop games like Ramiro did for me back at the club. Plus, it’s a new experience for me. I was always the player and never the one running the game. It’s good practice for my group that I have every two weeks.

[A-Ollie Gomez] It was strange at first, but I did have Ramiro with me. So, I did feel a lot more comfortable being in this big group of people of like four other people. They helped me get everything I needed for my tabletop games and thank them so much for that. Story by: Evan Cookman

Photo by: Diana Juarez

PENELOPEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CUPCAKERY W here there is a whisk There is a way Penelope Garvery Owner penelopescupcakery@gmail.com IG: @penelopescupcakery

Into the Forest: A Post Apocalyptic Coming of Age Story

ights flicker, the sound of the radio cuts in and out, and the humming of the refrigerator cuts to a sharp silence as power gives way to the beckoning call of darkness. Civilization is crumbling as the nation’s infrastructure has become fragile. Economic depression follows suit as the influx of money, medicine, food, fuel, and daily resources have become blocked—stagnant—choked at the neck and draining the life of civilians. Fear festers in the minds of survivors over the permanency of their state. Nell, Eva, and their father’s

isolated forest home proves to be a haven from the innate, desperate behaviors of the neighboring townspeople from the inception of the depression. Although they do not live and eat like kings, or even like a normal family, they do survive. Living in the forest all their lives, Nell and Eva have always known the meaning of home with all its pure, loving safety until it becomes a prison of trauma, paranoia, and the hopeful thought of life’s remnants resurrecting to a time before. Nell and Eva are thrown into the profound and bottomless pit of their society

after their father dies from a forest accident and have complely entered their adult lives hungry, lost, desperate, and, overall, alone and must endure the threat of starvation, disease, and intruders while maintaining their familial connection. Jean Hegland’s, INTO THE FOREST, captures readers with its beautifully crafted poetic prose written through the perspective of Nell, the practical, intelligent seventeen-year old Harvard prospect, who writes in her notebook about her family’s life prior to the dawn of Story and Photos by: Charles Flores

their world’s undoing, and how they have adapted to the birth of a new world without electricity, gas, technology, and minimal food. From their father’s untimely death, and their mother’s slow progression of cancer, loneliness and uncertainty have affected their lives and chances of survival.

“IT’S AMAZING HOW QUICKLY EVERYONE ADAPTED TO THOSE CHANGES. I SUPPOSE IT’S LIKE THE WAY PEOPLE BEYOND OUR FOREST HAD ALREADY GOTTEN USED TO HAVING TO DRINK BOTTLED WATER, DRIVE OVERCROWDED FREEWAYS, AND DEAL WITH THE AUTOMATED VOICES THAT ANSWERED ALMOST EVERY TELEPHONE. THEN, TOO, THEY CURSED AND COMPLAINED, AND SOON ADJUSTED, ALMOST FORGETTING THEIR LIVES HAD EVER BEEN ANY OTHER WAY.” -NELL Struggles of storing and producing food, and battling potential disease are vital to the survival of the characters, and it is as intriguing as it sounds as they find ways to plant, jar, and dry fruits and vegetables to fend off the lingering reality of starvation, but the main struggle that pulls readers in are the ways the sisters cope as the world crawls to its end. Eva turns to her ballet to continue her dream of becoming a dancer and joining the San Francisco Ballet Company, practicing tirelessly every day to the ticking of the metronome her father gave to her when their electricity gave way and her music waned with it. The absence of her computer, Nell dedicates her time to her studies and resorts to reading the encyclopedia letter by letter, cover to cover, preparing for her entrance into Harvard when things turn back to normal... if they do. Everyone copes, no matter what lures LC

oneself to an outlet, but what is so interesting about the sisters is how they latch onto their dreams from a life before. Their goals line up with their characteristics: Eva behaves impulsively when it comes to resources. Nell’s practicality and thoroughness rises to the surface. So, when Eva finds a hidden tank of gas, options of their survival change. Eva’s desire to hear her music after dancing to the repetitive tick tick tick of her metronome portrays how uneasy she feels and latches onto the only stable aspect of her life, one she can control:ballet. Nell’s practicality supports her choice to save it for an emergency that leads to their dispute that influences future events. Their conflicting choices and stressed environment paints a color of sympathy for both sisters as Nell’s choice is the smartest

one, but surviving isn’t living, and being able to have one fleeting moment of normalcy is priceless, especially to Eva. The futility of their persistent dreams become questioned. Should they continue to wait for a moment that may never come? The reexamination of their lives, relationship, and place in the world is now a factor that may save them from their endless waiting Features of the world are taken for granted, whether it is technology, the advances of medicine, the instantaneous possession of food, and, especially, the relationships between people. Hegland was able to lure readers into a familiar world of science fiction where a society suddenly becomes undone, yet she changed the perspective of such post-apocalyptic genres by adding the literary device of

“Surviving eyes become transfixed and allured to the walls of Nell’s and Eva’s house since in between those walls lies further potential to prolong their lives, so they stand, stalk, and wait.”

Nell and Eva cast away their hopes and dreams of their lost society and enter the heart of mother nature’s nurturing aura that will help them continue and accept their new lives.

bildungsroman, a genre that focuses on the formative years of a person. The coming of age for Nell and Eva shows an adult world that is riddled with longing, desperation, and violence. Nell’s longingness for Eli and a relationship—a normal life during a time that is so fragile, to Eva’s unfortunate encounter with a stranger who sexually assaults her and leaves her beaten and paranoid in the front yard of her home. Hegland’s depiction of human behavior during a time of distress is horrifying, and unveils how the hand of humanity is damaging in its own right.

“I LOVE YOU, MY HANDS SAID. REMEMBER THIS IS YOURS, THEY TOLD HER. THIS BODY IS YOURS. NO ONE CAN EVER TAKE IT FROM YOU, IF ONLY YOU WILL ACCEPT IT YOURSELF, CLAIM IT AGAIN—YOUR ARMS, YOUR SPINE, YOUR RIBS, THE SMALL OF YOUR BACK. IT’S ALL YOURS. ALL ITS BOUNTY, ALL THIS BEAUTY, ALL THIS STRENGTH AND GRACE IS YOURS. THIS GARDEN IS YOURS. TAKE IT. TAKE IT BACK.” -NELL

Into the forest is a read that will please audiences of apocalyptic literature and science fiction as it delves into the psychological effects of a crumbling society, but also into the lives of two normal teenage girls who contain the same desires as anyone else. Through the storytelling of Nell, the resonating feelings and emotions of the characters contain a deeper connection for female audiences who can envision their own experiences that the sisters endure and dream of. This shouldn’t deter audiences as it presents a personal, intimate, and unique perspective that is welcomed. 49

REGGIE THE ROCKETMAN The Elton John biopic follows up Bohemian Rhaopsody in theaters with plenty of optimism. But can the sex, drugs and rock n roll feel for Rocketman outwhit the Queen film in the box office? Plenty think so. If anyone saw Bohemian Rhapsody and thought Rami Malek was an Oscar winning actor, then Rocketman is the one to beat. Taron Egerton’s electrified performance as Elton John is one of a kind. Unlike Rhapsody, this movie doesn’t shy away from the sex and drugs. But in all seriousness, the film owes its success to surprise value as well as Egerton’s full engagement to the role. The movie starts with an image of John barreling off stage while dressed in satanic red with devil horns and slopping down for a group therapy session to exorcise his own personal demons. We then see his younger self, born Reginald Dwight, in a plain British suburb. He is seen unloved by his parents (Bryce Dallas Howard and Steven Mackintosh), who eventually divorce substitute their neglect with irrelevance. While growing up, John finds solace from his piano, since he’s a prodigy, as well as his friendship with Bernie Taupin (Jamie Bell), a poet whose suggestive lyrics would bond the two in a lifetime partnership. One inspired sequence is where John lays music to

"Rocketman gets a four out of five stars."

Taupin’s lyrics for “Your Song”. And from the jingling notes on the piano to the fully-realized performance, the “Your Song” moment is the film’s magnificently staged heartbreaker. Basically John and Taupin are the film’s core love story. But since Taupin is straight, there’s no sex involved. That actually comes from John Reid (Richard Madden), the suave Scottish buskinessman who would become his manager and Machiavellian albatross. Unlike Taupin, Reid displays a seductive eroticism, with both dazzle and danger. Now I’m not going into full detail of the movie. But director Dexter Fletcher does not disregard the flash that made John such an electrifying stage presence such as making his debut in Los Angeles singing “Crocodile Rock” while he, along with the audience, levitate off stage. Now I’m not going into full detail of the movie. But director Dexter Fletcher does not disregard the flash that made John such an electrifying stage presence such as making his debut in Los Angeles singing “Crocodile Rock” while he, along with the audience, levitate off stage. Long story short, this movie has everything. Brilliant acting and directing, great music score, an electrifying performance by Egerton and a great original song by John himself,“(I’m Gonna) Love Me Again.” This is the biopic movie everyone was waiting for. Rocketman gets a 4 out of 5 stars.

Rocketman is now playing in Uptown Whittier's own Whittier Village Cinemas Story by: Mason Tyler

Photo by: Brayan Altamirano

A QUIET GEM

Spreading Love Through Poetry at LA Pride

Story and Photos by: Meg De Lara

Among the dozens of white tents lined

down Santa Monica Boulevard, one took a different route when spreading love at the LA Pride Festival. The City of West Hollywood’s Art Division - or WeHo Arts - brought “Let Love Flourish: A Queer Poetry Pop-Up” to the public as a part of their month-long LGBTQ arts festival “One City, One Pride.” The event allowed attendees at LA Pride to experience poetry on a personal level, not only through spoken work and performances, but through written word as well. Equipped with two antique typewriters, the booth’s “#PridePoets” sat and created custom love poems for those who stopped by. “We decided to feature [this] at Pride because we want to highlight the different kinds of love people can experience and have an interactive way that people can get involved in WeHo Arts,” said Gwen Howard, one of the volunteers at the booth. The booth radiated with affection and looked more like a reunion than an informational booth. The method to create the poems was easy: answer a few questions from the writer and, presto – three to four minutes later, your very own poem is now in existence.

and ability to hone in, ignoring the sticky heat and celebratory-buzz, made it seem as though they were old friends. One by one attendees walked up to the poets, each delivering an exclusive biographical narrative, their love stories then molded into written words. To end the experience, the authors read the

“What do you feel is holding yourself back right now?” “What would you tell your future self?”

The questions sent stares into the open, but prompted immediate self-reflection and recognition. Even when participants didn’t know how to respond, the #PridePoets took their time in trying to understand the unique state of each individual. Their welcoming smiles LC

poems to their owners out loud, deepening the personal element and allowing an opportunity for self-love. The pop-up offered a theatrical approach to LGBTQ poetry as well. Jason Jenn, a multimedia artist based out of Los Angeles,

brought important works from historical queer poets to life, each expressing a form of love and “…a future where we could be loving freely,” as Jenn said. “We’re all in this journey together and need to learn how to get along,” he added, “the survival of so much depends on it!” With journal in hand, Jenn stepped out from under the white tents, adorn in a simple, yet striking silver cape handmade by his partner, artist Mr. Voice Love. From Greek poet Sappho to more familiar names like Walt Whitman, Jenn freely maneuvered around the black asphalt, taking what the #PridePoets were doing behind their typewriters and delivering it on a boisterous scale. “I feel a little bit like Super Queer Poetry Man,” Jenn said, “here to spread inspirational love… I want people to think and feel something from the piece – at times entertaining and amusing, other times educational and informative…” Even when the sun and noise from the crowd proved to be an obstacle, Jenn continued his readings, emphasizing important phrases vocally and physically. It was much more than a mere “see it and read it” reciting, and offered bits of history to listeners as well. At one point, Jenn read work by Emily Dickinson and revealed that the famous American poet was also gay, a piece of information that isn’t always highlighted when taught in classrooms. It was a chance to not only become familiar or re-familiar with the work of these authors, but also a way to understand their work from a different standpoint. Of all the loud and glamorous events taking place at Los Angeles Pride, the queer poetry pop-up was a quiet gem that successfully delivered the message of love with no boundaries, for one’s self and for all.

“What would you tell your future self?” 55

Run For The Oceans Story and Photos By: Maria Esquivel

Run for the oceans is a yearly

globalmovementcreated by Adidas that donates $1 for every kilometer ran to the parley ocean school. To raise awareness by showing children how to avoid contamination and what they could do to maintain our oceans in a cleaner and healthier state and prevent more loss of coral reefs and marine life. The oceans are at risk. Marine plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental issues in the world Today. In fact, more than 150 million tons of plastic exist in the oceans today, and it is scientifically proven that over 8 million tons of plastic enter the oceans every year. It is estimated that around 10,000 tons of plastic enter the Great Lakes annually. By 2050, scientists say the world’s oceans will have more plastic in them than fish. This issue is the main reason why Run For The Oceans was created and some people think they started caring about the earth too late and believe that they can’t do anything to create awareness and change people’s mind on caring for earth and its oceans. There shouldn’t be only one day dedicated to taking care of earth or its oceans because we should do that everday, but people care

more about how they look on social media and forget about what really is importan, which is planet Earth and its oceans. one way you could use social media to care for the oceans is to download the runtastic app and join the digital run.

-What is your opinion about oceans?

run for the

“I think The Run For The Oceans is a fantastic movement because it creates awareness that our oceans are filled with Trash and other things. The marine life tries to eat the plastic thinking it’s food and end up dying. We apreciate the gift we were given and we should take care of it the way people care for their materialistic property. there being more plastic than fish unbalances the food chain and it damages our ecosystem. In other words, we people have good intentions but we never truly appreciate the gift we were given,because we take and take and we just can’t seem to stop ourselves.” -Deisy Nava

You don’t have to be an elite athlete to Run For The Oceans. In fact, you don’t even have to consider yourself a “runner.” Marine plastic pollution is an issue that affects everyone, so let’s show up in force. Bottom line: you can make an impact on the world.

- What are your thoughts on Run For The Oceans?

- Location: Long Beach

“Adidas’s Run For The Oceans sounds like an absolutely great idea. Adidas is donating one dollar for every kilometer the person

runs. everyone should participate; sprint, run, jog,and even walk. this is a great because the money is being utilized to teach students at Parley Ocean School to turn the tide on this enviornmental problem. The parley students will be taught the principles about the ocean and how the ocean is important to our planet. Adidas is helping out the Parley Ocean School tremedously, all we have to do is participate and run!” -Andrey Salcedo

Digital Run The digital run is a more simple way to Run For The Oceans. All you have to do is dowload the Runtastic app and register for the run and just start running and start making a change!

- Do you still think we have time to clean

California beaches, while popular, have also turned into garbage cans for all the visitors. Adidas and Parley for the Oceans have come together to raise awareness: between June 8 and June 16, 2019. The locations known right now re currently in New York [June 8] Barcelona [ June 14] Shanghai [June 15] Los Angeles [ june 15] Adidas will also host live vents to make the digital Run For The Oceans campaign accessible to runners around the world.he kickoff event for Run For The Oceans will be on june 8, world Oceans Day.

brought in so much trash onto shore and that just shows how much trash is in the ocean it somewhat looks like a small landfill because of all the trash that washes onto shore.”

up our acts and clean up the ocean and the world?

“I believe it is already too late to do something

- how was marine contamination different when you were a kid vs now? “It was so different because back then people had more responsibility and self awareness, they used to clean up after themselves and each other, and now people don’t really care if trash is left behind or not which is why the ocean is filled with trash. Just because we don’t see it doesn’t mean it isn’t there. For example, the tsunami in Japan

to change the way people think and act and still manage to clean up the ocean and earth in general but we could always attempt to we just need hope and will.” -spectator Run For The Oceans became a massive wave of change that went global. Individual athletes and running communities came out in full force to help protect our oceans. A total of 924,237 runners worldwide went on to cover 12.4 million km. This year, with pressure growing for global action to save our fragile blue planet, we can achieve even more. We can raise awareness and funds to help,educate, and empower the youth! 59

Armenian Youth Federation

Our Mission The AYF is committed to the moral, social and intellectual advancement of Armenian youth in order that they may gain a better understanding of themselves. It is guided in these aims through its five long standing pillars of Political, Cultural, Educational, Athletic, and Social activity.

To learn more or donate go to https://m.facebook. com/ayfwest

LaMelo Ball IS BACK

Story and Photos by: Jarbas Faria

n June 8th, 2019, LaMelo Ball, brother of NBA Superstar and Los Angeles Point Guard Lonzo Ball, played in the Drew league. The Drew League is a league most famous for bringing in the most NBA players during the off season. LaMelo Ball an internet sensation for the past 4 years, has been all over the news for his talents but more importantly because of his fathers brand Big Baller Brand. In recent news, it was discovered that the company was robbed of 1 million dollars by co-founder Alan Foster. LaMelo Ball played this past year in Lithuania, a league with grown men he become the youngest basketball player in the United States to become pro at 16. He didn’t perform to the expectations which was expected when he was going up against grown men. He finished his season in Lithuania with averaging just 7 points a game 2 assist and 2 rebounds. LaMelo blew into the basketball world his freshman year of high school when him and his two brothers Liangelo and Lonzo all teamed up at chino hills going undefeated winning states and nationals. LaMelo then played his sophomore year with Liangelo and had a historical 92 point game, also hitting a half court shot that was all over the Internet. LaMelo ball a 6’8” point guard, has high praise and expectations on some scouting sites and mock draft predictions they have him going #1 overall in the 2020 draft. LaMelo Ball recently spoke about where he will play next season and it seems as he’s going to go to Australia to play a year of professional basketball over there. There was a lot of concerns surrounding LaMelo and his eligibility to play college basketball due to the fact he played over sees got paid then came back for his senior year to play at Spire Academy. There’s rumors that LaMelo will be teaming up with RJ Hampton the #2 player in the 2019 class who also announced he will be playing in the Australia basketball league. This past weekend was Lamelo first competitive game since his season came to a end at Spire. He rallied 25 points this weekend leading all scorers. He teamed up with his chino hills teammate friend Big O, they both didn’t disappoint one bit putting on a show and having fun while doing it. LaMelo Ball will continue to buzz and it’s going to be exciting seeing what he has in store for us for next season and years to come. LC

Low -n- slow and for the freaks

Story and Photos by: Vincent M. Franco

Grimly Formings (Top right) is definitely L.A.’s most hard hitting band right now. Even at a show like this, stacked with keyboards, drum pads and electronic noises.

Opening act Pinko Scum (Bottom) setting the overture for the night. With their atmospheric noises coming out of a synthesizer sitting on top of an old mans walker, complemented by eerie yells and spoken words.

Over the decades punk has taken over many forms, whether it be the music itself or the mentality and attitude that comes along with it. Some argue that its dead, and if its not already, then it should most definitely be. But it’s hard to argue when new bands pop up everyday and platforms like Lns (Low-n-Slow) are throwing , not only punk shows, but everything from noise to house music, and everything in between. Yeah those three types of music may seem worlds apart. But when given the chance and all those genres are up on one bill, you’ll realize that it’s all cumulative. This is exactly how it was at nonplusultra where Los Angeles’s fringes all came together for one massive anarcho, hardcore punk, acid-house, techno, party. With the likes of Pinko scum, Purity, who were once p22, Grimly Forming, Flesh, and Timecop, all of LA’s freaks came out to play.

As the night grew old and heart rates escalated, all thanks to subtle change from riffs to beats. All thanks to D.J. Duo Flesh (Bottom left) , Time Cop (L.A. debut) and D.J. Pacoima Techno (Not pictured).

Once P22, and now Purity, Los Angeleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own Anarcho trio, brings back the minimalism of Punk Rock. With solid bass lines traveling over a steady drum beat playing off a drum machine, and chopped up guitar riffs joining them for the ride.

Just as unusual as this line was, the fits were just as unusual. And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a diss either. A more of a fashion forward kind of thing. Not only did TimeCop bring a unique type of sound, infused with a deep house beats and a southern rap style. He also brought a fresh sense of fashion for the night. Just look at those cheese graded pants.

Rio Hondo College Selects Mendocino College Leader as Newest Superintendent/President

WHITTIER – Rio Hondo College’s Board of Trustees on June 12 unanimously selected Mendocino-Lake Community College District Superintendent/President Dr. Arturo Reyes to assume leadership of the College, pending approval of a contract in July. Reyes, who has led Mendocino College since 2013, will succeed Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss, who retires June 30. Board of Trustees Vice President Oscar Valladares announced the selection late Wednesday after the conclusion of a lengthy nationwide search overseen by a committee of students, college faculty, staff, administrators, and community members. “We are excited to announce the selection of Dr. Reyes, a visionary leader whose focus on student success and access to education is a perfect fit for Rio Hondo College,” Valladares said. “We are confident he can take us to the next stage by growing enrollment, increasing completion rates and decreasing completion time.” Reyes holds a doctorate in educational leadership from UC Davis and a Master of Arts in education and an administrative services credential from California State University, Sacramento, where he also received Bachelor

of Arts degrees in communication studies and Spanish. Prior to Mendocino College, Reyes served as executive vice president of academic and student affairs at the Solano Community College District, interim president and vice president of academic affairs at San José City College and dean at the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office in Sacramento. At Cosumnes River College, he served as a Spanish professor and coach and, later, as dean of humanities and social sciences. “Dr. Reyes will bring to Rio Hondo College two decades of experience in strategic planning, assessment, facilities management, partnership with local, state and federal partners in addition to his deep understanding of student and faculty needs,” Valladares said. “This is a key a moment for Rio Hondo College,” Reyes said. “The College has developed a rich array of programs to support students who are grappling as never before with barriers to success – hunger, homelessness, immigration status. Our job is to knock down those barriers even as we continue to expand high-value academic and career training opportunities. I am honored and proud to be the College’s choice at this most critical of times.” Dreyfuss, who has served the College for 32 years, said Reyes will provide the College with the vision it needs as it tackles those challenges. “Dr. Reyes has been a peer throughout my time as president,” Dreyfuss said. “I have found him to be a thoughtful, conscientious leader who keeps students at the center of all his efforts. His values mirror our values perfectly. Rio Hondo College could not have chosen better.” Dreyfuss, who announced her retirement in August, started at the College as an adjunct faculty member in 1987. She later served as a senior accountant, controller/business manager, chief financial officer and vice president of finance and business. She was named interim superintendent/president in 2012 and took the reins permanently a year later. Dreyfuss is credited with ensuring the College’s fiscal stability throughout her tenure as a financial guardian. During the Great

Left Image by: Noah Garcia

Press Release Courtesy of Ruthie Retana

Recession, Rio Hondo College avoided layoffs and furloughs. She also has been praised for guiding the College through ma jor renovations, including construction of the Administration of Justice Building, Learning Resource Center, Applied Technology Complex, P.E. Complex, police and fire training facilities, three regional campuses, a Student Services building and the Student Union. In 2013-14, Rio Hondo College became one of a select group of community colleges to host the Pathway to Law School program, which guides students from community college, through four-year universities, to one of eight top California law schools. The College also created a historic four-year Bachelor of Science in automotive technology. In May, the first graduates received their bachelor’s degrees. In 2017, the College created the Rio Promise, which has been expanded to offer two years of tuition-free instruction for first-time, full-time students. Rio Hondo College’s Board of Trustees on June 12 unanimously selected Mendocino-Lake Community College District Superintendent/ President Dr. Arturo Reyes to assume leadership of the College, pending finalization of a contract in July. Right Image Courtesy of Rio Hondo College

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