Vida de Oro
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Connecting Communities, Promoting Excellence
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
Writer, Director, Producer John J. Valadez on
Documenting The Latino Experience on Film Screening of The Longoria Affair a step toward the telling of untold Latino historical stories
IN THIS ISSUE: * La Raza Galeria’s “Dia de Los Muertos/Day of the Dead” Events * “Louis Prima Jr’s Big Band sound hits Sacramento * Astro-Jose: From the fields, to the stars, to Congress... * The RCAF lands in San Diego’s Chicano Park * Poster of the Week...
Why not make someone’s Halloween or fall season that much nicer by either making a handcrafted gift or buying a collectible already made? All of our handcrafted specialty items are made from a variety of materials including vintage fabrics, trims and lace. Plus, you can find the authentic emery for pincushions. Join us in sewing, beading or stiching holiday gifts in our crafts workshop and gallery. Come join us any Saturday. Classes taught every Saturday...call us to reserve your spot at (916) 705-5129
Minaʼs Treasures 1901 A Del Paso Blvd. Sacramento, CA 95815 minaperez@minastreasures.com www.minastreasures.com
Boycott Wallstreet! Support Small Business I am a small business!
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
PUBLISHER’S NOTE... Welcome! Happy October, a month where Hispanic Heritage Month ends, where we celebrate the progress of the disabled, hold massive October-fests, and we begin to prepare for Holloween/Dia de Los Muertos. The Sacramento Region is filled with various activities and events this month ranging from hot big band sounds (Louis Prima Jr. and the Witnesses) to workshops on making sugar skulls. But, perhaps the biggest surprise came from Modesto, California where NASA Astronaut Jose Hernandez announced his candidacy for Congress. The historic value is off the scale on this, and perhaps a great learning experience for students studying political science or civics. His opponent is a seasoned politician, Congressman Jeff Denham, who has reached out to the moderate Latino community in this region. Now, he faces a challenger in Hernandez who appeals to moderates of both parties and to those tired of politics as usual. This is an exciting Fall so far and not even close to being scary. Your feedback is always welcome. Enjoy, Adrian Perez, Publisher info@vidadeoro.com Poster of the Week
Table of Contents: La Raza Galeria announces their fall activities program .... Page 4 Louis Prima Jr. brings his Big Band sound to Sacramento .... Page 5 John J. Valadez documenting Latino history .... Page 6 Astro-Jose Heading to Congress .... Page 8 Deportation of Viet Vets story needs to be told .... Page 10 Sacra Artists Head to San Diego .... Page 12
About Vida de Oro Vida de Oro is published bi-monthly. For comments, information, or submit articles, write to: POP-9 Communications, 1901 A Del Paso Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95815 or email us at info@vidadeoro.com Vida de Oro is owned and published by POP-9 Communications, a private for-profit concern. Any article and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of Vida de Oro or POP-9 Communications, but remain solely those of the author(s). Vida de Oro is copyrighted and its contents may not be copied or used without prior written consent by POP-9 Communications. Copyright 2011. All rights reserved.
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The Arts: Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
1022 22nd Street - Between J&K Sts
To Dance Beyond the Grave: Day of the Dead/Dea de Los Muertos Festivities “Panteon de Sacramento” returns with public and personal altars
La Raza Galería Posada, will offer a six-week gallery exhibition, three workshops and a culminating event, Panteón de Sacramento, for “To Dance Beyond the Grave,” this year’s commemoration of Dia de los Muertos/Day of the Dead. Día de los Muertos is a traditional MesoAmerican holiday dedicated to the ancestors honoring death and the cycle of life. In Sacramento, Día de los Muertos has been celebrated since the early 1970s, commensurate with the Galería’s founding in 1972, 39 years ago. The Galeria will be offering Dia de los Muertos/Day of the Dead workshops three consecutive Saturdays beginning October 15 with Sugar Skull making, a traditional token of the season decorated with icing and food coloring. These workshops will be held on Saturday October 15 and Saturday, October 22 beginning at 10 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m. 4
On Saturday, October 29, the workshop will be Paper Marigold/ Cempazuchitl flower making, a Native tradition, that symbolizes death and rebirth, and it lends its eyec a t c h i n g yellow-orange color to many of the traditional Day of the Dead ceremonies and constructions. All workshops are $10.00, though no one will be turned away. Reservations are required. A two-day/night outdoor display of 40 large altars made by families, individuals, artists and non-profit groups will be featured at “El Panteon de Sacramento” (the Cemetery of Sacramento), culminating the month-long series of events. They will be available for public viewing on Saturday October 29th and Sunday October 30 at 2020 J St (behind the Native American Health Center). In addition, the Galería will create a community altar for the public to place offerings, including candles, photographs, foods, flowers, toys and other symbolic offerings for loved ones who have passed away. - Vida
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
Louis Prima Jr.'s Jump, Jive & Wail!! “The energy of his father, bounding around stage, wound up like a tight coil” Las Vegas Sun “Legendary swing and swagger!“ - Robin Leach Louis Prima, Jr. carries on the legacy of his New Orleans-born, proudly SicilianAmerican father, who was known as the original “King of Swing.” The trumpeter, songwriter and bandleader was truly at the forefront of the rock & roll movement— he was the epitome of the cool, singing and swinging Italian crooner, and he even achieved screen immortality as King Louie in Disney’s 1967 blockbuster,The Jungle Book. Louis Prima and the Witnesses became legendary during the 50s, 60s and 70s. Like most high rollers and celebrities, the famed Rat Pack were regulars at Prima’s “Wildest Show in Vegas. With hits like “Jump, Jive, an’ Wail,” “Angelina,” “Just a Gigolo,” “That Old Black Magic,” “Buona Sera,” “When You’re Smiling” and “Sing, Sing, Sing,” Prima Sr. was truly an innovator with a distinctive sound and boisterous presence. His music is timeless, Even Elvis Presley, when asked where he got his wiggle, replied, “From Louis Prima, of course!” Click here to get a taste... When: Sat, 10/15, @ 7pm Price: $35 per person Ages: 21 and up
For more information contact Swell Productions at Phone: (916) 457-7553 E-mail: info@swell-productions.com Website: http://www.swell-productions.com 5
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
John J. Valadez pushes for the documentation of Latino/ Chicano history on film The national screening of The Longoria Affair heightens awareness of civil rights in the 1950s " Looking a little worn from traveling across the country, writer/director/producer John J. Valadez shares that he has screened the nationally acclaimed and award winning documentary film The Longoria Affair to over 100 locations across the U.S. But, his upbeat personality and extensive knowledge of Latino/Chicano history leaves audiences in aw, especially Latino college students. The screening of The Longoria Affair and Mr. Valadez’ visit was hosted by The American GI Forum of California in concert with POP-9 Communications. It served as a fundraiser for the GI Forum’ s Civil Rights Legal Defense fund, which is currently involved in a couple of cases affecting veterans. “The rights of Veterans, young and old are being challenged regularly in modern times,” says Arnulfo Hernandez, Civil Rights Legal Counsel for the AGIF of California. “Many veterans, for example, today will get titanium prosthetics if they were injured in the newer conflicts, yet older veterans are stuck with the heavier and more archaic prosthetics. This is not just.” Valadez, whose credits include “La Onda Chicana” of PBS’ Latin Music USA, is now eyeing a project that will require much support. “I’m trying to raise at least $3000 to shoot some footage that tells the incredible story of the Valenzuela brothers,” says Valadez. “These are brothers who are facing deportation even though 6
they served honorably in Vietnam. It is a problem that all Americans need to be made aware of and this film will accomplish that.” For more information go to page 10 of this Vida de Oro issue. - Vida
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
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Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
Astro-Jose: From the fields, to the stars, to Congress...
“We would work in the field and pile in our car, my father would say, I can't make you go to college, but I can tell you that you are living your futures right now” It’s not everyday we hear about a NASA
astronaut tweeting from space in English and Spanish, but that’s exactly what Astronaut Jose Hernandez did on his flight of Discovery in 2009. He not only tweeted to his growing Latino fan base, he waived an Oakland Raider shield from space, perhaps also a first, drawing screams and shouts from the many rabid Raider fans in Northern California. Over the next two years since his historic flight, Hernandez made his rounds across the country, motivating and inspiring all who listened to his “Dream” message, young and old. Now, the farmworker from Stockton who would become an astronaut is seeking to become the first Latino Congressional representative from California’s 8
Central Valley. “I have a new mission,” the youthful looking 49 year-old engineer from the University of the Pacific told an excited group of supporters in Modesto. “To go to Congress and make sure mine is not the last generation that can claim the American dream." On October 11, Astro Jose, as his twitter fans know him, launched his candidacy for the Democratic nomination to the newly carved District 10. It won’t be an easy win since the district is somewhat conservative and just elected Republican Jeff Denham only two years ago.
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
Clock Wise: In space, flashing the Raider Shied; with Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson; with Vida Publisher Adrian Perez; with kids from North Carolinaʼs “SOl” program.
“In Modesto, CA ready to declare my candidacy for the United States 10th Congressional district! Come to the Center Plaza. 1000 L st. 11:00am” Hernandez twitted early Tuesday Morning (October 11). Born Aug. 7, 1962, in French Camp, California, to migrant farmworkers, Hernandez joined NASA in 2001, but did not qualify to be an astronaut until his 12th attempt, three years later. He retired from NASA in January of this year after serving as its liaison to lawmakers, where he says he got bit by the political bug. "I was able to walk the halls of Congress and get a good feel for how they work," Hernandez said. "I'm coming into this with my eyes wide open."
Currently, Hernandez serves on the Board of Regents at the University of the Pacific in Stockton and runs his Reach For the Stars Foundation, which helps low-income students attend college. "I would call myself a moderate Democrat," he said. "I agree on being fiscally responsible, but at the same time I also agree we need many of the social programs that we have. It's a delicate balance, but it can work if we are smarter about how we allocate our resources." Hernandez is now circulating a petition online to tell Washington to change priorities and focus on creating jobs. - VIDA 9
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
DONATE
AMERICAN EXILE is a documentary film about two brothers, Valente and Manuel Valenzuela, both decorated veterans who volunteered and fought in Vietnam. Now, forty years later the Department of Homeland Security is trying to deport them to Mexico, a country they have not been to since childhood. For over sixty years they lived in the United States. They went to elementary school and played on the high school football team. They got married and had kids, then grandkids. They worked, bought homes and started their own construction business. Manuel opened a martial arts school. They joined veteran’s organizations and for decades they dawned their uniforms and marched in parades on Veteran’s day and the Fourth of July. Then came 9/11 and the Valenzuela brothers lives were forever changed. The government began checking people they believed were resident aliens for criminal records in an attempt to snare potential terrorists. They discovered Valente had been sentenced to take an anger management course because he got into a fight. Manuel’s name came up because he had been convicted of resisting arrest almost a decade ago and had paid a $350 fine. About a year and a half ago they both got notices of deportation. They were shocked. They thought it was a mistake. After all, their mother was American, born and brought up in New Mexico, and their father was a naturalized citizen. Both brothers were raised in Redford, Texas along the U.S.Mexico border and both had volunteered to serve in the military when many of their peers were fleeing to Canada and Mexico. The Department of Homeland Security countered that Valente and Manuel were actually born across the Rio Grande river in Palomas, Mexico and they are therefore in the country illegally. Confused, the brothers started using the internet to connect with and get advice from other veterans. They were astonished to discover they are not alone. Many veterans are facing deportation or in their words, “exile.” Now comes the opportunity to tell all of there stories. But, to do that, we need your support. Please take a moment and make the donation you can to make this important film. 11
927 11th Street, Modesto, CA
(209) 572-2990
Featuring fine world fare (dishes, cuisine) in a casual, fun and relaxing atmosphere. We are located in the heart of downtown Modesto; within easy walking distance to cultural events including the Gallo of the Arts Center, Brenden Movie theatre and The Fat Cat Music House. We also carry many local and hard to find wines inside of our wine shop. You may contact our banquet coordinator to schedule events or your Holiday Party and to help with any special needs you may have. Testimonials: "Service & food are amazing! Everything was perfect! Thank you!" – Megan R. "The food was great and awesome customer service! Very attentive to what we needed." – Stephane V. "We love the menu changes for seasons and the variety." –Tara W. "Friendly; Romantic; Feels Good" – Gary E.
Restaurant & Bar Hours Monday thru Saturday: 11:00am to 2:00am - Lunch and Dinner with a Late Night Menu available - Full Service Bar Sunday: 3:00pm to 9:00pm - Silhouetting Gallo Center for the Arts Performances Tammy tammy@tresetti.com Paul (Wine Shop) wineshop@tresetti.com Kim (Office) kim@tresetti.com Mitchell mitchell@tresetti.com
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
Sacramento’s Royal Chicano Air Force lands in San Diego’s Chicano Park Secret airbase becomes headquarters for the RCAF’s restoration of the Coronado Bridge’s monster pylons In 1970, Sacramento established an artistic community park – Chicano Park.
connection with San Diego, California when numerous local artists, led by Professor Jose Montoya of Sacramento State University, lent their talents to “Chicano Park,” located in a once polluted and depressed neighborhood known as “Barrio Logan.” Mexican Americans had settled in Barrio (which means neighborhood in Spanish and ghetto in English) Logan since the 1890s and at one point it contained the second largest Mexican American population with over 20 thousand residents. However, many moved in the 1930s when Barrio Logan lost waterfront housing and businesses to the U.S. Navy. Coupled with the City of San Diego rezoning the neighborhood as “industrial,” many residents moved out. The remaining residents took action when the construction of the Coronado Bridge removed thousands of families and the planned construction of a California Highway Patrol Station was revealed. Taking to the streets in protest, and at one point creating a human chain to prevent bulldozers from clearing the land for construction, community members cleared the land and quickly planted cactus, shrubs and flowers behind them. After occupying the land for twelve days, the City of San Diego agreed to acquire the site for the development of a 12
San Diego artist Salvador Torres had envisioned the painting of murals on the pylons holding up the Coronado Bridge in 1967 and by 1974, the first phase of murals were initiated. In 1975, a group of artists from Sacramento known as “The Royal Chicano Air Force” (RCAF), landed at Chicano Park and completed phase two of the three phase mural process. Today, Chicano Park is designated as an historical site and the murals have been studied and featured in publications worldwide, including National Geographic. But, with recent earthquake concerns, some of the pylons have been retrofitted, causing damage to the murals. After receiving protests, the California Department of Transportation is working with park officials on a restoration project. To ensure the quality and meanings of the work are protected, many of the original artists have been asked to return to Chicano Park and help the restoration, including members of the RCAF. Over the next several months, these Chicano Sacramento muralists will be working on various original pieces,
Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
performing every aspect of the restoration including enhancing the original artwork. Sam Quiñones from the RCAF is documenting the restoration via video and will be showcasing the final product throughout Sacramento upon its completion. – Vida.
Sam Quinones is documenting the restoration and shared a progress status at the Washington Neighborhood Center on Oct. 12.
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Volume 1, Issue 2
SACRAMENTO EDITION
October 14, 2011
From the Mexican Consulate: ·
Sábado 5 de noviembre de 2011: Consulado móvil en Anderson, California.
·
Se podrán tramitar matrículas consulares y pasaportes.
·
ES NECESARIO HACER CITA AL 1-877-639-4835
El Consulado General de México en Sacramento informa que el próximo sábado 5 de noviembre de 2011, se llevará a cabo un Consulado móvil en Anderson, California, con el propósito de atender al mayor número de mexicanos posible. Durante la jornada, se expedirán matrículas consulares y pasaportes; asimismo, se dará información sobre protección a mexicanos y otros servicios consulares. El Consulado móvil se realizará en: Salón del Sagrado Corazón 3141 St. Stephens Dr. Anderson, CA 9600
E L C O N C I L I O 14
D E S T O C K T O N
Est. 1983 ...serving the freshest juices and licuados in town, nothing frozen or concentrated. Our menu also includes sandwiches, salads, our famous quesadilla, fresh-ground coffee, mochas and other espresso drinks. A nice selection of beer and wine is also offered. Enjoy it all in the comfortable atmosphere of Luna's, one of this area's original cafe galleries. Or call in your order and we will have it ready for take-out. Luna's is available for meetings, fundraisers and catering your office luncheons. Breakfast is served Monday through Saturday. Featuring music and entertainment Wednesday through Saturday evenings. Dinner served starting at 5pm.
(916) 441-3931 1414 16th Street Sacramento, CA 95814
Hours: Monday: 9am-4pm, and 6:30pm-10pm Tuesday: 9am-4pm Wednesday: 9am-4pm, and 6pm-10pm Thursday: 9am-4pm, and 6pm-11pm Friday: 9am-4pm*, and 6pm-Midnight Saturday: 6:30pm to Midnight Sunday: Closed * We are closed for most holidays and Furlough Fridays between 8am-4pm