Q&A: CANDIDATE EDITION
RHC ALUMNUS, YARISMA ROCHA TO BE THE NEW TRUSTEE-ELECT REPRESENTING AREA 2
representing those not always at the decision-making tables.
Q1: What motivated you to run for a position on the board of trustees or city council?
A: As a teacher with over 24 years of experience, I have spent my entire career serving students and families in these areas, and I am grateful and excited about continuing my service to the community. I am a solutions-based, open-minded leader who believes in bringing all voices to the table, and as a Latina professor and leader of various nonprofit organizations locally and statewide, I have been motivated and committed to serving all people and
As a young mom and first-year college student, I remember living paycheck-topaycheck and having to pick out of a hat which bills we could pay because we couldn’t afford to pay them all. Every family and resident should feel supported, and I want to ensure hardworking families have what they need to thrive in La Mirada.
It is my balanced perspective as a seasoned educator that brings a collaborative mindset that will uphold La Mirada’s family values, ensure strong public safety, and continue to build recreational, community, and educational programming and
By: Omar Lopez Editor in chief
Q1: What motivated you to run for a position on the board of trustees?
A: My motivation to run for Rio Hondo College Board of Trustees stems from the profound impact Rio Hondo College has had on my life. It was here that I developed into the woman I am today, finding a pathway to higher education at the University of Southern California, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. As an alumna, Rio Hondo College holds a special place in my heart; it was a nurturing environment that my daughter and I called home for five years, providing us with essential support, services, and countless opportunities. I am passionate about empowering our students and ensuring they have access to the resources they need to achieve their goals. Serving as a Trustee for Rio Hondo College is not just a position for me—it’s an honor and a way to give back to the community that shaped my journey. I will aim to help all our students
say, “Start Rio, Go Anywhere!”
Q2: What applicable qualifications do you have?
A: I am employed as a Technology Project Manager at City National Bank, where I focus on implementing new technology solutions for the bank. In this role, I manage initiatives and coordinate a team to achieve desired outcomes. Additionally, I am actively engaged in my community as a Planning Commissioner for the City of Pico Rivera. In this capacity, I have the opportunity to vote on significant issues such as infrastructure development, new business proposals, and code updates. This role allows me to use my voice to influence the direction of our city’s growth and ensure it aligns with the needs and values of our community. These experiences equip me for the Board of Trustees by enhancing my ability to make informed decisions, collaborate with stakeholders, and advocate for the resources and support our students need to succeed.
Q3: What changes will you be advocating for if elected?
A: As an alumna, I am passionate
ENGLISH PROFESOR, MICHELLE VELASQUEZ
about using my voice to advocate for our students. I will champion the support of our services and resource centers, recognizing that they are vital in connecting with students and understanding their needs. Additionally, I will support infrastructure development, focusing on creating new facilities and modernizing existing facilities to ensure our campus is equipped with the latest technology. Furthermore, I aim to advocate for changing the current enrollment age limit of two years at the Child Development Center to allow for the enrollment of children under two. This adjustment would greatly benefit student parents, making it easier for them to pursue their education while managing their family responsibilities. Lastly, I will work to bridge communication with school board members and city officials to ensure that our community is aware of the pathways and opportunities available at Rio Hondo College for upskilling, changing career paths, obtaining certifications, and pursuing higher education.
BEAN IS THE ONLY WOMAN RUNNING FOR A SEAT FOR LA MIRADA CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2
partnerships–these are the interests of the hard working families of La Mirada, and it is the collaboration between school and college districts, county parks and services, government agencies and nonprofit organizations with the city that is vital to maintaining a safe, bright future for residents.
As a long-time resident with deep roots in La Mirada, I also understand the importance of upholding fiscal stability for the city and positioning La Mirada for economic growth.
Q2: What applicable qualifications do you have?
A: As the Vice Chair of La Mirada’s Historical Preservation Advisory Council, I understand the policies and responsibilities of city governance and public service. As a past treasurer and executive leader in nonprofit organizations for youth groups sports and higher education, I understand how to monitor budgets and policy implementation. I am experienced in how to engage constituents and bridge connections between services organizations and county services and city departments, school and college districts,
nonprofit organizations and faith-based institutions, and other agencies in partnership with city government. I also have prioritized connecting with La Mirada residents as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels. Key leaders have also put their confidence in my ability to lead with their endorsements: United States Representative Linda Sanchez, California Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco, California Senator Bob Archuleta, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn, Mayor Pro Tem Ed Eng, Norwalk-La Mirada School Board Member Karen Morrison, and many local leaders, neighbors, and community college trustees.
Q3: What changes will you be advocating for if elected?
A: I would like to prioritize collaborating with those who invest in improving the conditions of working families with a focus on strengthening community services and recreational programming for all, especially our youth, seniors, and people with disabilities, including advocating for childcare and addressing food insecurity with collaboration with food banks and other organizations.
Additionally, I would like to prioritize collaborating with community organizations, other government agencies, nonprofits, and faith-based institutions to help address homelessness with compassion and long-term solutions.
In advocating for changes to policies and practices within governing responsibilities, I would seek to align with the values of La Mirada: integrity, teamwork, service, openness, diversity, and unity.
Candidate for La Mirada City Council, District 2
Election Date: November 5 Facebook & Instagram: Michelle4LaMirada www.michelle4lamirada.com
OPPOSING CANDIDATES:
Chris Pflanzer, John Sarega, and Dan Siwak
Candidates were unavailable to answer questions.
Photo courtesy of trustee elect Yarisma Rocha
Photo courtesy of candidate Michelle Velasquez Bean
By: Omar Lopez Editor in chief
WHITTIER UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT INCUMBENT JAIME LOPEZ BATTLES MAGDALENA MAGGIE B. MOE TO STAY IN SEAT FOR AREA 2
teachers’ unions
Q1: What motivated you to run for a position on the board of trustees or city council?
A: My job is not finished as a Trustee for the Whittier Union High School District. I continue to strive for bigger and greater achievements including in academics, athletic competition, recruiting the best employees, and having the best overall classroom experience for students, teachers and classified staff.
Q2: What applicable qualifications do you have?
A: As a community leader I have the experience on serving on various boards. Most recently, November of 2020, I was elected by voters to represent Area 2 of the Whittier Union High School District. Within the 3+ year timespan, under my leadership, the District has: Successfully saved the District one million dollars by opting to appoint a board member instead of holding a costly election to fill the vacancy
Established strong agreements between the District and both classified employees’ and
Renovated academic and athletic facilities to better prepare students for real-world competition
Achieved CIF Southern Section and State championship status
Focused on student achievement by introducing new programs and reinstating existing ones
Doubled the number of community members that sit on the Citizen’s Oversight Committee for Measure AA
It is also worth mentioning that he is proud to have earned a Trustee of the Year Award from the Los Angeles County School Trustees Association (LACSTA).
Q3: What changes will you be advocating for if elected?
A: lowering the academic counselor/student ratio
Increasing the A-G rates
Increasing the English Learner re-classification rates
More community involvement
Contact Information: Jaime@jaime-lopez.com www.jaime-lopez.com
IG: @trusteejaimelopez
Cell: 562-451-4292
Whittier Union High School District, Trustee Area 2
Contact Information: Magdalena (Maggie) Barragnon Moe
Email: maggiemoe02@gmail. com
Website: www. magdalenabarragnon.com
Cell: 714-345-2309
IG: Maggie4whittier
Q1: What motivated you to run for a position on the board of trustees or city council?
A:I was motivated to run for WUHSD Area 2 because several people approached me and asked me if I was interested. I have many years working as a youth leader and I really enjoy it. I was compelled to run when I discovered that 49 percent of Hispanic males are graduating with D’s and F's. This is a social and economical problem which must be identified and resolved. Transparency is very important to me regardless of how it is perceived. Every student matters and deserves to get a good education including students with special needs. I bring great ideas and diversity to my community.
Q2: What applicable qualifications do you have?
A: I am a community leader and I am very involved in my community. I serve on several local boards such as Whittier Sunrise Rotary, Whittier Regional Symphony and The East Whittier Arts and Educational Foundation. I support the Interact Club at California High School where forty to fifty students are all college bound. I support music education and raising money for our high school bands through the Battle of the Bands, a successful event that is supported through the Rotary club and our local high school bands. Music and art are very important to me and I see the great benefits that it brings to our students and their futures. I make it a point to get to know my community and to understand their needs and wants. I feel that I connect to my community very well.
Q3: What changes will you be advocating for if elected?
A: I will advocate for more investment in the classroom to ensure that all students and teachers have the resources and tools needed to be successful and to make sure that our students have a clear
path to education. I want to see more investment in Vocational/trade classes such as welding, HVACR. plumbing, construction, carpentry so that some of our students are employable after leaving highschool. Our students will have a great opportunity to continue their education and become Entrepreneurs in our community. I will advocate for financial literacy courses and mental health and drug use resource centers.We can help many students who are experiencing trauma and drug use. We must all be transparent that we must provide services to all students and staff who need help. I also want to get rid of old policies that are old and outdated.
community of Unincorporated West Whittier for the past four years in this role, I am committed to our progress and growth. I am particularly excited about our ongoing collaboration with our labor partners on the Community Schools grant, which is a testament to our shared commitment to the future of our schools and community.
Q2: What applicable qualifications do you have?
A: I am an experienced board member who has served during a pandemic. The invaluable experience I have gained during the past four years has included hiring and retaining excellent staff, including our educational leader, our superintendent of schools. I have also learned from the experiences associated with post-remote learning and have continued to support our Virtual Learning Academy and social and emotional services.
Q3: What changes will you be advocating for if elected?
A: My top issues are: Prioritizing academic excellence through more teacher support and tutoring; Increasing social and emotional support; and Supporting a responsible budget during these difficult financial times.
OPPOSING CANDIDATES:
By: Omar Lopez Editor in chief
JAUREGUI
CARO
Board President, Whittier City
School District
Phone: (562) 967-1698
Email: cajauregui@gmail.com
Candidate for: WHITTIER CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Governing Board Member, Trustee Area No. 1
Q1: What motivated you to run for a board of trustees or city council position?
A: I initially ran for school board in the Whittier City School District in 2017 because my connection to the schools I represent is deeply personal. My three sisters and I were students
at several schools I represent today. This community, which nurtured me, is where my roots run deep. This is why I am committed to giving back to the place that shaped me, and I believe in creating an environment that fosters our students’ growth and upholds the promise of public education.
Having represented the
Whittier district area 1, Lary Batista, Whittier district are 2, Llyod S. Reed and incumbent Elizibeth Leon
Candidates were unavailable to answer questions.
Photo courtesy of Whittier trustee incumbent Jaime Lopez
Photo courtesy of Magdalena Maggie Barragnon Moe
By: Omar Lopez Editor in chief
Photo courtesy by Caro Jauregui
WUHSD
INCUMBENT JOSEFINA E. CANCHOLA GUARDS TRUSTEE AREA 3 SEAT FROM OPPONENT CARBAJAL
By: Omar Lopez Editor in chief
Q1: What motivated you to run for a position on the board of trustees or city council?
A: I wanted to give back to my community and contribute to the college-going possibilities of our local youth, especially because I am a product of this community and the Whittier Union High School District.
Given that I have over 40 years of professional experience in K-12 and higher education, I felt that one o of the best ways to provide support to our scholars (many of whom are first-generation college potentials) is to utilize my professional background as an Educator to help make policy decisions that can contribute to supporting the individual needs of our students so that they
can achieve their hightest potential in academics and their personal development.
Q2: What applicable qualifications do you have?
A: I have 36 years working for the University of California System, consequently I am quite familiar with statewide mandates and policies impacting K-12. As the Director of Secondary Programs for UC Berkeley’s Puente Project, I also managed a multi-million dollar budget and a team of Education experts. This background provides me the background and expertise to make more solid decisions for WUHSD from an expert lens. Additionally, I have also served for the last year and a half as a governing board of WUHSD as a Trustee and have had direct experience
in this role as the current Vice President of the Board.
Q3: What changes will you be advocating for if elected?
A: One thing that I am very passionate about is bringing a cultural element to learning. It is my dream and effort to create a Mariachi for WUHSD so that students will not only learn about music, but learn to appreciate their cultural heritage. Additionally, I want to do a deep-dive into areas that are preventing our students from college eligibility. I want to create strategies that will allow more of our students to complete the A-G courses, graduate from high school and outline a pathway to higher education or other upwardly mobile options that will allow them greater financial, personal and academic success.
WUHSD FRANCIS CARBAJAL CHALLENGES INCUMBENT JOSEFINA E. CANCHOLA FOR TRUSTEE AREA 3 SEAT
By: Omar Lopez Reporter
Q1: What motivated you to run for a position on the board of trustees or city council?
A: I’m running for our community. To assist our young adults with their education. To make sure each student receives the best education possible. Everyone must be treated equally. Each student must know of all the services available for them to use to help them on their road to college or a trade.
Q2: What applicable qualifications do you have?
A: My qualifications are: community activist, Chairperson Planning Commission, President Women’s Club, Chairperson Sister Cities, Member Family and Human Service, to make a few.
I’ve worked with multi million dollar budgets and advised young adults as well. More importantly, I have the desire to assist our students to receive the best education and services they need to succeed.
Q3: What changes will you be advocating for if elected?
A: My priorities are: Transparency, accountability, fiscal responsibility, and academic performance. I know you cannot accomplish anything with one vote, we must work together for the students, parents and our community.
I kindly ask for your VOTE, together we can do this for our students and community.
Respectfully,
Francis Carbajal
Photo courtesy of Fancis Carbajal
Photo courtesy of Josefina Canchola
A PLAYGROUND FOR FRIENDSHIP
By: Matthew Garcia Reporter
Palm Park has become a central spot for a group of young athletes, shaping their friendships and athletic journeys. Nathan Alvarez, Bishop Blackmon, Isaiah Cano, and Ryan Ramos—all 19—grew up playing basketball together at Dexter Middle School. Over the years, they’ve continued their connection through regular meetups at Palm Park, a place that has witnessed their growth as both players and friends. Isaiah Cano has been coming to Palm Park since he was in middle school. “I’ve been coming here since I was about 13,” Isaiah recalls. For him, it’s a space where he’s been able to develop his game over the years. The familiarity of the courts, the openness of the park—it all feels like home. “Whenever I had free time after school or during the weekends, this is where I’d go to work on my game.” Isaiah’s attachment to the park is clear—it’s where his dedication to basketball
started and continues to grow. Bishop Blackmon’s story with Palm Park began in a different way. Moving to Whittier from Florida in the 8th grade, he used basketball to break into a new community. “I didn’t know anyone when I first moved here, and coming to Palm Park to play ball helped me meet people,” Bishop explains. The park became a comfortable space where he could make new friends, and before long, he found himself part of a solid group. “This is where I met the guys I still play with now.” Nathan Alvarez has spent most of his life coming to Palm Park. His connection to the park runs deep, as it’s been his go-to spot for years. “I’ve been coming here for as long as I can remember. Whether it was to play ball or just hang out, Palm Park’s always been a part of my routine,” Nathan says. Recently, he’s started exploring different activities, finding new ways to stay active, but basketball remains his main focus. “It’s cool that I can come here for different things—
THE CELEBRATION OF LIFE
HOW TO PAY YOUR RESPECTS ON DAY OF THE DEAD
By: Omar Lopez Editor in chief
Dia de los muertos (day of the dead) is a holiday that is usually celebrated between the first and second of November. Although most people born or are from Mexico celebrate from the 28th of October to the 2nd of November. These days are reserved for the friends and family who have passed and in order to remember or pay respects to them many families set up an altar with photos, food, and even personal belongings of said person named an “ofrenda”. Each day also has its own meaning and connection with the holiday.
“Day of the dead is important to me because we don’t celebrate their deaths, we celebrate life. We celebrate the life they had and we remember them alive, not dead,” Griselda Haro, local Whittier resident, said. Haro also goes on to mention that the holiday should be spent with joy not sadness. Even when losing the people she loves, Haro stays positive in remembering those close to her. “When I lost my younger brother it destroyed me. It felt as if a piece of me died… now I celebrate to remember how he was like when he was alive.”
When it comes to making an ofrenda Haro was very clear on how she decorates and the meanings behind each item being placed on the ofrenda. First she puts the photo of the loved one who passed. Secondly she lights
there’s space for everything.”
Ryan Ramos, who is as dedicated to the sport as the others, uses the park as a way to stay in shape and keep his game sharp. “I’ve always seen Palm Park as a place where I can practice and stay fit,” Ryan notes. While basketball is a big part of why he comes to the park, for him, it’s also about enjoying time with friends. “We’ve all been coming here for years, and it’s just a good place to connect with everyone and keep our skills up.”
The bond these four athletes share goes beyond the basketball court. They’ve been playing together since their days at Dexter Middle School, and even after high school, Palm Park remains a constant. The open green fields, the well-used basketball courts, and the surrounding trees have become a familiar sight as they continue to meet up and play. Their connection to the park is rooted in the time they’ve spent here, both in practice and in the friendships they’ve built. Palm Park represents more
than just a place to play—it’s become a foundation for these young athletes, a place where they’ve grown as individuals and as teammates. Whether it’s Isaiah perfecting his skills, Bishop finding his footing in a new town, Nathan expanding his training, or Ryan maintaining his fitness and enjoying time with friends, the park holds a special place in their journey. As they continue to navigate their post-high school lives, Palm Park remains the
space that brings them together, allowing them to stay connected through the game they all love. It’s a familiar spot for them to return to, reminding them of where they started and giving them the room to keep growing.
RHC NEW TRAM ROUTE AND STOPS
By: Esmeralda Rodarte Reporter
candles and places them alongside the photo she also adds water, and salt. Thirdly she places marigold flowers or better known as cempasuchi in the tradition this acts as a path for the people in order to come and find their way back to the ones still alive and celebrating them. Lastly she places their favorite foods, beverages, and personal interests that they enjoyed while alive. Day of the dead is something to be celebrated and to be treated with respect.
With each day that is involved with the holiday each one has their own meaning. Haro went on to state, “Everyday is catered to something specific and it’s important to have more than one day because not everyone passes the same,” she said. Down below is a list of each day and what each day represents:
• October 28th - people who got killed
• October 29th - killed by accident
• October 30th - Non born babies (abortion) ninos / non baptizied ninos (babies) October 31st - people who died without someone knowing animas del purgatorio
• November 1st - Anyone and everyone (main day of the dead)
• November 2nd @12:00 PMAnyone and everyone takes everything to the cemetery November 2nd - at cemetery set up ofrenda
At Rio Hondo we have a lot of great resources and a lot of great helpful things help us and guide us at campus, one of them being is the tram route and having the tram come up from the bottom of the campus all the way up to the campus and apparently the route has changed this semester and added a new stop at the gymnasium and as well as added a new stop to the other side of the student parking lot as well, these new routes have helped students and have helped people around campus that are just one take a shortcut from the parking lot to the campus or just taking the bus or also using Uber share to get from campus and from all the way up
and down. I got you as well see students opinions and as well see people that don’t use a tram but as well do use a tram and I always thought as well it’s also a very interesting thing to get different slides of how much students love the pros and cons of having these resources so seeing how the comparison has became to be I think that seeing these opinions do matter because the main people that should have these opinions and have should one either if there’s new stuff to be added or if there’s new stuff to be endured I think that a lot of the time the students opinions shouldn’t matter and a lot of the time students should have a voice to comprehend and add a lot of stuff either if they like it or not. Isabelle Calvill, A first year student mentioned A transfer from El Camino and she has been taking the bus for
most of her life and she has mentioned that her finding a resource and having them to provide bus cards as well as also been a good thing that has helped her in her College successful life and has made her feel more comfortable into saying that this campus has better access. She saw the security podium and they mentioned “omg! They have a tram” She said that she also seen that other campuses like Cerritos,El Camino, Long beach or other types of community colleges don’t provide that service so she saw that there was even more of a bigger factor for her and seeing that there is stuff that provide them that to get from one side to another. She also has said that “I would like to see more secured trams and seatbelts that can be provided as well.” Even myself I feel like seeing more tribes can be helpful as well and I think that this system should be also all around other campuses and how there are more services that need to be endured. Even About myself I feel like there should also be a couple more stops and I think at the end of the day it is really useful and I also think that having more trams as well can be more sufficient for real Hondo and Rio Hondo also has a different type of campus layout so I feel like having more plans and having more procedures would be helpful as well and taking the time to actually see his procedures would be well as well.
Photo by Matthew Garcia
Photo by Esmeralda Rodarte
RIO HONDO COLLEGE UNDOCUMENTED STUDENT WEEK
By: Esmeralda Rodarte Reporter
To start off this week for Undocumented student action week, the dreamers Resource Center had events throughout the whole week from Monday Oct. 14 through Oct. 17. Undocumented students have been really impacted I’m really scary to find what path you want to take if you or undocumented and how it can be very scaring a certain way to not know that if your life is going to have a free will in a sense and I real Hondo they really care about education and helping one another and making people’s goals and people’s dreams come true and how education is a big part of people who are undocumented and that need help and that need to push in their life and how sometimes people that aren’t undocumented don’t really see how it can be an issue to the people that are around them but I think it should be influenced by everyone and everyone should know that it is really good to have a good opportunity because for example for undocumented students they don’t have as many opportunities as they would have and so the events that started this week were some resources centers for Essentials and how to obtain an id, some other resources were like how to be
a part of on campus and how to be with the campus and how to connect with them, and advocacy on how to use your voice and how to find strength within yourself, and the last one that I had a opportunity of joining was called UNDOCU TRANSFER. I was also grateful enough to be around the Counselor Cindy osorio, for Rise scholars and undocu schoalrs has she hosted the event and was apart with many great people in the room to make these people know dreams and goals are bound to happen!. “ I feel like this week this opens up the campus
To understand more of the undocumented experience, i feel like it can be an isolating experience it’s not something that students talk about openly so having these spaces where students are safe and can get more information and also we can inform the community and staff on how to talk to these students about assistance it gives everybody a good successful experience”. This event also included a spokesperson that Came in and provided information on how to have support services and how to have good resources and how to learn how to be a good college student when it does happen when you’re applying and even if you weren’t undocumented as example I personally know people in my
life that are undocumented but I also went to this event as much info as I can and a lot of the time this was just a really good experience and resource and knowing how undocumented people are impactful like I said earlier instead of people that are born within the United States you see a big difference you see a different impact and all the time people don’t see the impact in a lot of the time people are just not really educated enough on the impact and so this is why undocumented students have the help that they have good resources and how some people that are even within the campus are aware of events that go on because they feel afraid of going on they just don’t know or they just don’t have that push and I feel like
having to push having a motive is really important to kind of the generation that we live in as well and I even think that this can go along through a for everything because it’s just really important and how even Little things that come into play that come into help can just make something possible and can make someone’s goals possible and I think that’s really important because at the end of the day each student are real Hondo wants their degree wants their goals done and wants everything done that is applied to them and I think that’s what we have to know in a sense in the end of the way if you are doing what you can and believing that you can finish it .
RIO HONDO SUPPORTING THE UNDOCUMENTED
By: Mathew Morales Reporter
On October 17, 2024, The Student Success and Dream Resource Center joined together to host an event inside the L tower at Rio Hondo College where Rio Hondo students were informed about undocumented scholars and the struggles that undocumented students have faced in order to achieve their scholarships in the United
States. The Dream Resource Center also informed college students on how they can help out and support undocumented scholars in a one hour lecture presented by Janeth Bucio, a regional organizer a part of CHIRLA. Not only did the Dream Resource Center educate college students on how they can support undocumented scholars, they also showed college students how they can apply to the undocumented
scholar program if they are undocumented scholars themselves. “So if students that are interested in joining the undocumented scholars program, they are able to join by simply meeting with any one of our counselors or staff members and signing an agreement form for the undocumented scholar program.” Committee member Azalia Gonzalez said. The Dream Resource Center also has a variety of things that can
help undocumented scholars during their years in college.
“We also provide our students with snacks, meal vouchers, book vouchers, and any basic needs such as school supplies or transportation for our scholars.” Azalia Gonzalez said. “We also do some fun stuff, so we’ll do game nights, hikes, and we’ll also do field trips. We have a field trip actually coming up at Cal State LA to promote transferring for our scholars who want to transfer out of community college and want to pursue their academics in a 4 year college.” The Dream Resource Center also makes it clear to the people that the resource center isn’t specifically for Rio Hondo students, and that they are an initiative and show support to undocumented scholars in other community colleges alike. The Dream Resource Center will continue their journey and go on to different community colleges across the Southern California region and help spread awareness about undocumented scholars to community college students as well as help support undocumented scholars to achieve academic success regardless of their immigration status.
Photo by Matthew Morales
Janeth Bucio endorsing Rio Hondo students to become CHIRLA members and support undocumented students.
Photo by Esmeralda Rodarte
VENOM: THE LAST DANCE MOVIE REVIEW
By: Justin Chu Reporter
According to Sony Pictures, this movie is about how in Venom: The Last Dance, Tom Hardy returns as Venom, one of Marvel’s greatest and most complex characters, for the final film in the trilogy. Eddie Brock and Venom are currently on the run. They are being hunted by both of their worlds and with the net closing in, the duo are forced into a devastating decision that will bring the curtains down on Venom and Eddie’s last dance. First of all, as coming from a former film school student and as I was walking out of the movie theater, I would like to say that this movie was better than Joker 2 overall. I would also like to say that this movie in fact had some scenes in Venom 3: The Last Dance, that makes it better than Venom 2: Let There Be Carnage and the first Venom. However, because of Carnage being in Venom 2, I would say Venom 3 is a tie with Venom 2. The cinematography and the different camera angles that they used in this
movie was absolutely amazing at times which makes this movie visually stunning in some scenes. And the fact that they effectively used IMAX cameras, further enhances the film’s visual impact especially when there are scenes with explosions. Also, the visuals and the imagery when it comes to the symbiote creatures or the villain Knull...they were incredible to look at, especially when they appear on screen therefore it draws the viewer’s eyes and enhances the storytelling. Now, the sound on the other hand, the music and the sound effects were phenomenal especially when there were explosions happening in a particular scene and especially when they used IMAX cameras. However, the only problem I had was the fact that I couldn’t hear some of Eddie Brock’s and Venom’s character dialogues in some of the scenes. Having said that, at least there was some comedy which I laughed at during those scenes. But other than that, there was great music and sound effects. And that’s saying something
because it was balanced. Also, the plot and the execution of the plot and the themes it was trying to portray was outstanding because there were actually stakes in this movie unlike the first two Venom movies.
However, my only other problem I had was the fact that they under utilized a particular character but other than that it was really good as far as the plot and the themes goes. Also, the lighting, the set pieces or the settings,
the costumes, the makeup, the cinematography, the editing, and the acting is all great especially from Tom Hardy’s Eddie Brock and Venom characters when they were on screen and the
other characters as well. When I spoke to two audience members, named George Aguilar and John Harris, they thought it was a great movie too and that they both agreed with me
that the 3rd movie was better than Joker 2 overall. And at the same time, they also said that they too think that this movie in fact had some scenes in Venom 3: The Last Dance, that makes it better than Venom 2: Let There Be Carnage and the first Venom. However, they also thought because of Carnage being in Venom 2, they also would say Venom 3 is a tie with Venom 2. In Conclusion, the Venom 3: The Last Dance movie makes this finale worthwhile and worth watching again, maybe not in theaters but maybe like on DVD. Also, towards the end during the final battle, I would say it was absolutely fan service. I do wonder how this movie will help bridge this movie with the future of the Spider-Man movies and I also hope that Tom Hardy’s Eddie Brock and Venom will join the MCU aka Marvel Cinematic Universe soon.
RIO HONDO COLLEGE SOUND COLLECTIVE CLUB EVENT
By: Justin Chu Reporter
This article is about how on October 18th, 2024, a student mixer event happened at Rio Hondo College that was presented by a particular club called the: Sound Collective Club. Their goal was to showcase the club and to get students to know more about them so that the students such as myself who is a DJ, who loves music, and who wants to be in the music industry can join this club. Also, you can get free pizza when joining the club, joining, and signing up for their Discord server, meet fellow students with diverse musical interests, check out some of club’s music equipment such as my DJ equipment, sign their collaborative mural, get raffles, and prizes. Also, because of the fact that Student Union recommended me to join this particular club, not only students can see me deejaying it up to people at the event at Rio Hondo College, but as well as to the people who attends the Boo Bash at Rio Hondo College. I had the privilege and the honor to interview two of the club’s leaders, Luis and Vioanna, and they said that the club was established so that music students or
students interested in music would be able to collaborate with other clubs and individuals to give them some exposure as well as some experience in working with others to create music for events. They also said to add some experience to their resumes. They later stated that the original club was established between 2017 or 2018 and was up until 2020 when COVID hit. They also said that it just made a return this semester of Fall 2024. Also, they said as of right now, they are in talks to plan some more events for DJs to have a set for students to enjoy, have a Taiko drum group coming to perform sometime in November 2024, and for next semester next year, they do also have a plan to have the synth society give a workshop and a performance for students.
They also mentioned and said that, “You can join the club on the Rio Hondo College website but we recommend adding the Sound Collective on Instagram to get ahold of a member so that they will walk you through the process. You can also join the Discord as well.”
They later talked about how the club back in 2017-2018 was Music Professor Dean Wheeler’s idea. One of the leaders, Luis even said,
“When I came back to school during the summer of 2024, I found out that the club had not been up and running since COVID hit, so I talked to George Wheeler about starting it up again. That’s when I talked to Vioanna about helping me run the club.” They later said that the club’s goal is to not only give exposure to current music students but to also get other students interested in music to join and maybe even enroll into the music program. They said that they even want students to be exposed to collaborations with different groups for events so that they can create music for these different events and add them to their resume for when they look into colleges or careers down the line. Later, I asked both of them about how they should have a mini prom, a mini night club, or a mini rave/ mini music festival kind of event here at Rio Hondo College and what will it take for that to happen. They said and I quote, “I have talked to George and Vioanna about having an event like that. The only thing is we would have to find a location for these events. The music building is currently under development right now so we’ve thought about having it at another venue but
that will come later. I even have thought about having an event on the quad where students/ DJs can have a a set time of doing what they love and getting people to dance. It will be a great time for not just the DJs getting exposure but also for students who want to dance and have a good time.”
In Conclusion, Vioanna stated that, they will be working closely with our Cultural Arts Department to bring various types of musicians, DJ’s, ensembles, technicians, and engineers to come perform/ demo/ workshop for our students. She also said that, “We highly recommend the students in joining our Discord where a huge amount of our community will be interacting and forming their own groups or genre divisions, allowing them to set up their own meetings or practices.” She
later goes on to say that, “We believe expanding students musical exposure to various types of music so we’d love to set up a college radio featuring wider ranges of music than you’d typically hear on popular radio stations. Additionally we’d love to feature our own students on these stations.” She also stated that, “We are planning to set up our own YouTube channel featuring DJ streams like HOR Berlin and Boiler Room where we’ll also be hosting regular mixers in the breezeway featuring different types of dance music. We’ll be giving students time during these mixers to play their own sets. Additionally, we can stream concerts for live performers and present our own showcases.”
by
Photo by Justin Chu
Photo
Justin Chu
RIO HONDO STUDENTS SOUND OFF ON DIVISIVE
PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
By: Matthew Garica Reporter
As the presidential race heats up, Rio Hondo College students are talking about the strengths, weaknesses, and issues they see in this election. *El Paisano* caught up with students who shared their thoughts on what the future might hold, the impact of media coverage, and who they think has the edge. Mark, a Rio Hondo student, thinks the upcoming debates will be a big deal, even though both candidates have their share of baggage.
“They’ve got strong support, but neither one has a clean record,” he said. Mark feels Trump is running a tougher campaign, pushing 32 days straight, while Harris takes “a lot of breaks” despite her celebrity supporters. “Media’s huge. If you follow influencers, that’s probably shaping who you’ll pick,” Mark added. For him, the economy and inflation top the list of issues, especially as
gas and grocery prices soar.
For Brandon Martinez, though, the election feels distant. “I don’t see anyone doing anything for my future,” he said. Trump supporters seem active around him, but he’s noticed little buzz for Harris.
His view shows how younger voters feel unsure about both candidates or even if voting will make a difference.
Jaime Delgado, another student, has strong feelings about both sides. “It’s just a lot of bickering and trash-talking,” he said, though he’s leaning toward Trump because “his policies line up with what I want.” Jaime is also frustrated by media coverage, which he says is “mainly one-sided” on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Kevin Barrios feels disappointed by this election, saying it’s “sad” that the options don’t feel inspiring. “If it’s between Trump and Harris, it’s a 50-50 chance, but I don’t have much faith,” he
shared. He admits he avoids following election news closely but notices Trump supporters are loud and active, adding to his worries about where the country is headed. Young voters like Milton Molina, 18, feel worn down by the backand-forth attacks between the candidates.
“It’s all negative. They’re just trying to outdo each other’s mistakes,” Milton said. He
doesn’t trust what he’s seeing online, saying, “Half of it’s fake or blown up.” He thinks the constant negativity is pushing young people away from voting altogether.
Levi Nunez, also 18, agrees.
“Kamala’s quiet; Trump’s out there every day,” he said, thinking the two campaigns are really different in style. Although he’s unsure about Trump’s past, he’s more likely to back him over Harris. “I
don’t know if either one can fix what we need, but I’d probably go Trump if I had to pick,” Levi added.
Yamile Aguilar, one of the few female students we talked to, feels disillusioned too. Though she hasn’t followed the campaigns closely, she sees this election as a turning point for the country. As election day gets closer, the mix of excitement, frustration, and doubt among Rio Hondo students is real. From concerns over inflation to skepticism of the media, students of all ages are waiting to see where things go, even if they’re not sure their pick will change things.
FORENSICS SPEECH & DEBATE NEWS
The Rio Hondo Forensics Speech and Debate team competed at the first competitions of the year this weekend. 2024 PSCFA WarmUp Tournament September 28-29. With 17 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 2024
TOP SPEAKERS
1 st Wyatt Zipperian
Joshua Lopez
Gia Alvarez
Remy Reyes
Hugo Acevedo
Open IPDA
Kate Ayala
Excellence In Parli Debate
Annie Logie and Wyatt
Zipperian
Kai Carillo and Gia Alvarez
Alejandra Valencia and Sergio Vega
Team Was Led by Forensics
Co-coordinator: Patricia
Hughes
Special Thanks to Coaches: Grant Tovmasian, Edward Minasyan and August Jones.
Next in team’s view is Concordia University Irvine October11-13.
The Rio Hondo Forensics Speech and Debate team competed at the 2024 Jannese Davidson Invitational at Concordia University Irvine on October 11 to 13. With over 24 Universities and Colleges represented, Rio Hondo Speech and Debate Team did amazingly.
Please join us in congratulating the Rio Hondo Speech and Debate Team and the following students:
Speaker Awards
Sofia Cuevas
Kai Carillo
Remy Reyes
Annie Rose Logie
NPDA (Parliamentary Debate)
Amanda Guevara and Hugo Acevedo Octofinalists
IPDA (Public Debate)
Annie Rose Logie Bronze
Team Was Led by Forensics
Co-coordinator: Patricia Hughes and Grant Tovmasian, Special Thanks to Coaches: Edward Minasyan and August Jones.
Next in team’s view is travel tournament at Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego Oct 26-27.
Photo courtesy by Professor Grant
Photo courtesy by Professor Grant
Photo by Matthew Garcia
Happy Halloween!! Roadrunners
