From Student Athlete to Student Trustee Hesma A. Valdes
Omar Lopez Editor-in-Chief
From being a student athlete, to being Student Trustee, Hesma A. Valdes is nothing short of inspirational.
Valdes is in her second year here at Rio Hondo College, studying in psychology, sociology, and social work.
Valdes is someone who values the importance of hard work and dedication. Having to balance her work as Student Trustee as well as being a student athlete being number 42 in RHC’s female Basketball team.
Valdes recently had the oppurtunity to travel to Washington DC in order to hopefully recieve funding for basic needs resources, and to get dorms on campus. Housing for students . Also to get more money for Pell Grant.
“Not just Advocating for our students but advocating for students across the nation increasing Pell Grant,” Valdes, Student Trustee, said. They also aimed to protect the Trio Programs. Which was one of many main focuses they advocated for. In hopes to get more help and overall improve
on the resources they already have. Including new ones they hope to achieve.
She has been Student Trustee for around 9 to 10 months and has already made a positive impact on Rio as she fights alongside students for resources they may need in order to succeed.
Valdes would mention, “My main priorities is to strengthen basic needs program to better help students as I have struggled with my basic needs.”
“I lost housing because my mother became mentally ill causing her to to enter a mental hospital and could not work to maintain our housing,” Valdes, stated.
During these difficult times Valdes was unsure that her college career would be successful and was planning to drop out entirely. Even with her at one of her lowest moments she sought out help here at Rio and reached out to the basic needs team for help and assistance.
She would go into detail stating, “I was determined to perservere and find resources. I sought out our basic needs team for help. I told them everything I was experiencing
Shout Out to RHC Forensics Speech and Debate Team!
The Rio Hondo Forensics Speech and Debate team competed at the 2025 CCCFA STATES CHAMPIONSHIP, at Woodland Hills CA, on March 12th and 16th. With the team itself bringing home medals in 2 out of 3 debate events. Showing great dedication and resolve with one another and their craft.
Congratulations to the following students with their achievements:
Bronze International Public Debate - Andrea Juaregui
Bronze NFA Lincoln Douglas
Spearkers Awards:
Anai Guerra
Andrea Juaregui
Amanda Guevara
Rio Hondo Speech and Debate States Team:
Alejandra Valencia
Amanda Guevara
Anai Guerra
Andrea Jauregui
Jim An
Joshua Lopez
Victoria Tailanian
Yolanda Cabada
with my loss of basic needs and was scared for my unkown future.”
She gave her trust to Rio Hondo in order to give her a fighting chance to thrive academically and holistically. Even when hardships came her way Valdes stayed optimistic and fought for her future. Finding ways to stay on her feet.
Using Rio as her own resource she managed to climb up the ranks and make her name known in this school community. Regardless of her struggles Valdes chose to fight for her future and chose to use the oppurtunities that RHC was able to provide in order to become Student Trustee.
“I was able to be in Student government, be Student Trustee, work a FWS, have an internship, be a student athlete, and hold a 3.9 GPA. While my story may be considered a success story, I am just one story of many, there are still many students struggling to overcome these challenges of basic needs due to the limited resources,” Valdes,Student Trustee, said.
Hesma A. Valdes is not only a student who has overcome difficulties in her life but she
is an inpiration to anyone and everyone who may be stuggling as well. Balancing life to the best of her abilities in order to reach the desired future for herself. Valdes fights for the resoruces that she knows students need
in order to succeed and thrive. Valdes shows true spirit and dedication to her craft and shows brilliantly why she is Student Trustee.
What is JACC? And Its Purpose?
The Journalism Association of Community Colleges (JACC) is an organization that is run by faculty members and the Board of Directors from regions in Northern and Southern California. March 6 of this year is the first day of the organization’s national competition. A conference was held at 3pm, hosted by Nicole Vargas, the former president of the organization. Anne Sciacca and Eleni Gastis, the current copresidents, along with student president Kenna Jenkins were also in attendance at this conference.
Many students from all over the country were in attendance asking questions to cover the experience of these four members of the Board of Directors of JACC. The organization has over 810 attendees present to compete in the multiple competions. The furthest school attending JACC is located in Maine. An important statement that was stated during the conference was about the funding on public education and that particular relationship between that and student journalism.
Member Eleni Gastis explains “the funding model is being fully implemented for 2025 so the way that the colleges are getting funded from the state, of course, is going to have some big impacts. And of course, we’re seeing a lot of things come down from the federal level that you’re all aware of, student success programs that are also getting axed”. Gastis also informs students that 70% of the new funding formula relies on enrollment.
Anne Sciacca also adds to what Gastis had previously mentioned about the funding model. Sciacca adds “your funding model is based on the combination of enrollment and these other factors, it can be challenging, I think, for journalists and faculty to sustain their programs”. The funding model is a great way for students to be funded during their student journalism process all year round.
Students also asked for advice on their journalism career. Sciacca says “To network. And this is, you know, 30% of your journalism career is going to be just networking. The rest is going to be the skill, the writing and being able to perform on
deadline”. Networking is a great way for journalists to achieve their stories being heard and or read. With networking in journalism, having connections to people in the industry who have experience in journalism could really help an aspiring journalist with any questions or concerns they may have. By having these connections, many journalists can get their foot in the door.
Student president, Kenna Jenkins explains “ building those connections and, like, upkeeping them when you go to talk, you know, email them saying, you know, I went to talk and they enjoyed it. Just making sure you build those connections with people and you”
This conference that was held helped many student journalists to develop an understanding of the reality of journalism. The four speakers at the conference were attentive to everyone in attendence. Many students had important questions to ask the few members of the Board of Directors.
Art Hearts Fashion celebrated their 11th anniversary with Adidas Originals for Los Angeles Fashion Week...
Photo Courtesy of Student Trustee Hesma A. Valdes
Marissa Chavez Opinion Editor
Professor Grant Tovmasian Co- Coordinator
Photo Courtesy of Professor Grant Tovmasian Debate - Amanda Guevara
Metro Expansion and New Routes
The Metro Transit Agency just announced a new 9-mile expansion coming to the local communities of East Los Angeles, Commerce, and Montebello. The current E line (formerly known as the Gold Line) will run through three new stations, commencing at the Atlantic Station in East LA. This latest expansion will bring public transportation to transit-dependent communities with high travel demand to ease traffic congestion and create a more transportation-efficient LA county.
In May 2024, the Metro Board approved the last environmental impact report, further advancing the project. This project will be broken into two phases, with Phase One beginning later this year with an estimated completion by year 2037. However, construction for phase one is not expected to begin until 2029. Riders can anticipate the existing Atlantic/ Pomona station to be rebuilt underground. The three other stations would be built as an Atlantic/ Whitter station, Commerce/ Citadel station, and Montebello/Greenwood station. Phase two of this expansion would bring the metro rail to Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, ending in Whittier. However, this next phase would not begin its planning process until phase one is underway to allow the teams to seek additional federal funding.
Metro has projected that this project would increase population by 11% and jobs by 25% by 2042. In a statement, Los Angles County Supervisor and Metro board director Hilda Solis said, “Certifications of the environmental documents for the Eastside Extension and Southeast Gateway Line represent a significant milestone in our mission
to achieve transportation equity in Los Angeles County, particularly for these historically underserved public- transit deserts”.
While this extension will make intra-city travel easier, many commuters and residents express concerns over safety, construction interruptions, and business disruption. Resident and Realtor Stephanie Butler points out concerns over the homeless crisis and wonders what Metro and the city will do to counteract it. Other residents and riders look forward to easier and more accessible transportation in their communities. Resident Lorena Vellanoweth says, “I can’t wait for the metro to run close to Whittier. I was hoping this would help with traffic on all major avenues in Whittier”.
In response to crime and security concerns, Whittier Councilmember and Metro Board member Fernando Dutra raises solutions by creating a special security force for Metro. “Officers that we hire will be trained a little differently to address the social issues that we’re currently facing on trains and buses”, explained Dutra. Along with the new specialized force, Dutra announced new technology to improve safety, such as taller fare gates and AI-powered weapon detection systems.
Metro is dedicated to improving the transit experience from the first to the last mile. Metro is working directly with local agencies and cities to improve streets and make public transportation more attractive. Metro is also hosting opportunities for the community to come out and see the developments of future stations to garner feedback. Riders and residents must wait until the expansion is completed to see the impact on their communities.
College Corps Donation Drive
On March 4 to March 19th, the College Corps program held a donation drive and gave recruitment advice for the students at Rio Hondo College. For two weeks, the nonprofit organization program known as College Corps came by to Rio Hondo College to accept donations of men’s clothing for homeless people in Whittier Narrows.
Diana, a member of College Corp states “The donations are going to go to people that are homeless or unhoused.” Diana also mentions “We take the donations every Thursday to the Whittier Narrows resource fair and give them out to the people that are out there.”
Not only did the College Corps program accept these donations, but they also provide the students at Rio Hondo College an opportunity where students must complete 150 hours of community service and are able to receive benefits in return.
Diana states “We’re a service learning program where we recruit 50 students a year to commit to completing 150 hours community service for area fields such as K-12, climate action, and food insecurity.”
Diana also states “There’s tons of benefits, one of the three main benefits that students get to do is networking, in the area fields we have a variety of connections with the community and organizations to work with and we introduce
them, we even give students progressional development opportunities such as resume building, interview skills, and working on LinkedIn.”
Not only can students network, but another big benefit for students at Rio Hondo College is being able to get paid. Diana clarifies “The other benefit is getting paid a monthly stipend of $700 the whole year as long as students are completing their hours, and at the end when you complete the rest of the 150 hours, you can qualify to earn your educational grant that’ll be $3,000.”
Another big benefit students get from joining the College Corp program is to grow in the communities. Diana also mentions “The last benefit you get is to know the community building, we’ve said hi to students walking in Rio Hondo College because they’ve been a part of the college corp and have done community hours with other organizations, but it helps us all be more connected and grounded to us.” The College Corps can be located at Rio Hondo College along with more facilities as well.
Meet the RHC Pepsters Team!
Marissa Chavez Opinion Editor
The Pepster team was founded by students Dayanara Flores and Destiny Mendoza in November 2024 and is a student lead organization. Rio Hondo has not had a Pepsters cheerleading team in over ten years. Flores was in the process of starting the film, cinema and stage club. That process inspired both Flores and Mendoza to create their own cheer program. “We made this a club and wanted to support basketball games whether that was the women’s or the men’s,” Dayanara Flores, founder said.
The Pepsters have attended three to four basketball games. The first game they attended was a men’s basketball home game on November 21, 2024 against Chaffey College.“The first game was a lot, we had the mascot there and around 15 cheerleaders from our group, the mascot really pulled it together,” Flores said.
Cheerleading is a very contact based sport which requires a lot of stunts and tumbling. As of now, the Pepsters group does not have their own coach because they have not found someone to fill that position. They are actively on the search for a coach that can teach them how to conduct their stunts and tumbling.
The process of maintaining the Pepsters organization has been very difficult. “It’s a difficult process because we
were thinking, how do we keep it engaged? A lot of people have different schedules to really make a time commitment,” Flores said. To resolve that issue, members of the group decided it would be best if the team meets at the basketball games to cheer on their fellow roadrunners.
There are 20 participants on the pepster squad. The team has all female members. They are currently in the process of getting their cheerleading uniforms for this year and season. They also are on the lookout for a permanent practice location so they can perfect their cheers, stunts, and tumbling. “We are also looking
forward to having a place or room to commit, practice in, we haven’t had that yet. We’re looking to do that this semester so that next semester can go smoothly,” Flores claims.
The cheer team is always looking for new members to join their organization. They express that people that are interested in joining cheer do not need any experience to sign up. The team is most active on their Instagram account @riohondopepsters. People interested can always send the account a direct message for more information to join. It is not late to join since the team is just starting out!
Photo by Wendy Garcia
Photo by Matthew Morales
Wendy Garcia Reporter
Matthew Morales Reporter
Photo Courtesy of Club Founder Dayanara Flores
The Importance of Womens Month
Edwin Ramos Reporter
Every March, the world comes together as one to recognize Women’s History Month and the achievements and progress they have accomplished throughout the years.
This is a huge thing because it’s not just a month of celebration but an opportunity to learn about the impact women have had in history, society, and our daily lives.
There are many famous figures throughout history that are in textbooks, documentaries, and news. Their contributions will always be known but people have to remember about the countless number of women who are not in any of those but are there for us and have shaped many communities.
Some of those may be teachers, nurses, scientists, athletes, and activists who we may see or hear about all of the time. They have made a difference in today’s time where it can get argumentative about topics.
With all of this progress there still is a problem for women which happens to be present still in today’s day. That problem is not being given credit for their work throughout the years.
There have been times where people find out about a topic and a man is given credit for it but those people later find out that a woman was the one who learned about it first but they were never given their full credit and respect.
This month is where all of that should be showcased to show how much women have impacted our lives in many ways that people may not realize until researching it.
When asked about the importance of Women’s History Month, Danielle Ramirez, a Rio Hondo student shared her thoughts.
“Women’s Month gives us a chance to celebrate the achievements of women, both past and present. Some of the women’s accomplishments have been forgotten or claimed by men, and I think it’s
important to be able to reclaim their accomplishments and give credit where it’s due. Women’s Month reminds us of the work women have done to break down barriers and it provides those of us today with drive to break down new obstacles.”
This shows how much women are important in our lives even though we may not see it. It may seem there is only one month of celebration but it should extend throughout the year for the hard work and excellence they have given us.
Graphic by Omar Lopez
Arts & EntErtAinmEnt
Art Hearts Fashion: Redefining Creativity in the Fashion World Innovation, Diversity, and Artistic Expression on the Runway
Marissa Chavez Opinion Editor
Art Hearts Fashion celebrated their 11th anniversary with Adidas Originals for Los Angeles Fashion Week at The New Mart in Downtown Los Angeles over the weekend, where hundreds of models and many designers showcase their creations on the runway.
Each design was different and creative in their own way. Every designer put a lot of effort into creating their designs, to be able to put on this show for over hundreds of people in attendance. From dresses with long trains to fitted suits, each designer had something unique to add to their designs, which is what fashion is to designers, being unique in their own certain way.
Fashion News Live Network president and founder Rocco Leo Gaglioti said “This gentleman is the man responsible for this fashion week, not only this fashion week but New York, Miami, Las Vegas,and is continuing to grow your vision, your passion, your desire influences millions of people around the world. You are the reason why fashion week is in the United States” in reference to Art Hearts Fashion president Erick Rosete alias Mister Triple X for his designer brand.
The LAFW presented by Art Hearts Fashion consisted of a long list of designers
- Glaudi
- Tamara Nasr
- Bishme Cromartie
- The Mestizo
- David Tupaz
- Bad Pink
- Kenneth Barlis
- Giannina Azar
- Richard Hallmarq
- Anna Gupta
- Athethem the Label
- Apricot London
- Hasson
- Cienna
- Steve Madden
- Desigual
- Cross Colours
- Driesha Closet
- Idyllwild
- Charlie Designs
- Merlin Castell
- Idol Jose
- Velvet Heart
- Romain Thevenin Paris
- Kentaro Kameyama
- Mister Triple X
- Adidas Originals
Each designer brought their unique pieces that spoke to the testament of creativity.
“This beautiful building has life, it has so many designers, so many stylists and so many people who are passionate about fashion that live, breathe, and work in this building” said Rosete demonstrating his gratitude towards everyone.
March 20, the second night
there were eight designers that showcased each of their designs. Each show had up to 15 models to showcase the creative work they have created. Most of the designs that were displayed on the runway were couture long ball gowns with long trains, floral patterns, sequins, satin, silk,and many different colors. The designers that presented their designs were Glaudi, Tamara Nasr, Bishme Cromartie, The Mestizo, David Tupaz, Bad Pink, Kenneth Barlis, and Giannina Azar.
Each show was covered in segments and had three designers in each segment. In between segments while models were putting on their next runway outfit, guests were able to see multiple activities and artwork put on display for guests to interact with as they waited for the next segment.
Adidas Originals provided the event with two claw machines. Attendees could insert a coin provided by an employee, and try to win a prize of socks.
Night three of LAFW, March 21 designers Richard Hallmarq, Anna Gupta, Anthem the Label, Apricot London, Hasson, Cienna, Steven Madden, Desigual, and Cross Colours. These nine designers had their models show off their designs on the runway. Each design had their own style of everything from formal to casual wear.
Models were able to do interviews and take promotion photos while showcasing the designs. This gave the designers an opportunity to showcase their designs while models got to interact with guests on a more personal level. This also gives a more of an idea of the process the designers had to go through to create their pieces.
One of those models that contributed to the work of art is Melanie Jones Rodriguez. Rodriguez has been training for modeling since she was four years old, which is approximately ten years in the modeling industry. With being in the modeling industry, Rodrigez explains that she had to overcome some challenges that the industry requires, maintaining a certain image that the industry wants most models to have.
Models have to maintain their weight in order to wear the designer’s clothing. ”I personally experienced that type of problem specifically in this type of industry. It’s very important to keep in mind for your body and mental health as well,” says Rodriguez. She is an advocate for people who struggle with mental health and body dysmorphic disorder.
The final day of Los Angeles Fashion week took place on March 22. This show had the biggest crowd and earlier show times. Doors opened at 3:00pm and began with their
“This beautiful building has life, it has so many designers, so many stylists and so many people who are passionate about fashion that live, breathe, and work in this building” - Rosete
All Photos by Marrissa Chavez
Arts & EntErtAinmEnt
first runway show at 4:00pm. With ten designers: Drisha Closet, Idyllwild Academy, Charlie Designs, Merlin Castell, Idol Jose, Velvet Heart, Romain Thevenin Paris, Kentaro Kameyama, Mister Triple X, and Adidas Originals. The designs ranged from everything from formal to casual attire. These designs were different from the previous days. These designs had crystal sequins, ruffled fabrics, bright and dark colors, plaid patterns, and stripes.
The Arts Hearts Fashion was founded by Erik Rosete in 2011. He is the president of the organization and the designer of Mister Triple X. Rosete has been growing his love for fashion by putting together fashion shows in different states in the United States. He uses this opportunity to allow many artists and designers to showcase their work. Art Hearts Fashion is a place where many people can go to get inspiration and surround themselves with talented and creative people. During the breaks between shows, guests were able to see the artwork that was presented by the artists and had the chance to meet the artist and see their artwork. One artist that was in attendance was Kat Grevino. She has been attending Los Angeles Fashion Week for the past four years exhibiting her artwork.
Grevino has been creating art since she was 18 years old. “I actually got my first art award when I was nine years old, I have it in my blood, basically my uncle was a fashion designer in Paris and my great uncle was an artist in Paris. It’s just something you need to do, it’s a drive” Grevino says.
Painting and creating art is an amazing form of self expression, in many ways people use art to express themselves. “I like to do surreal art, where only imagination is your limit and I like to bring dreams into reality and bring you into a fantasy world, and beautiful planets and worlds that I created, the great escape” Grevino says. Art and fashion go hand in hand in the world of creativity. “ Art is fashion and fashion is art, that’s why I brought my collection that reflects my work so you can be the art and wear the art” Grevino says.
Uptown Whittier, a Perfect Spring Break Location
Matthew Murillo Reporter
Uptown Whittier, sometimes referred to as Old Town Whittier, is a wonderful place for students to spend their spring break. The area is home to multiple opportunities for fun to be had, such as the Starlight Whittier Village Cinemas and all kinds of cultural foods to be enjoyed.
Greenleaf Ave. in Uptown has different varieties of stores like: Lovell’s Records, a place to browse through CD’s and vinyl. Uptown 2000 is home to a more punk-esque merchandise selling patches, pins, and shirts. Legends Boardshop is a perfect place for skaters to shop at as there is also a skate park not too far away from the shop.
On the same street is a place to get a bite to eat, “Madres Brunch”. The restaurant sells breakfast items like pancakes and waffles. That isn’t all though as it is also of Mexican culture. Offering foods like chilaquiles and rancheros. If Mexican food isn’t really your style and you are with a group of friends, “Brickhouse Pizza” sells what they call the “Big One”, a 28” pizza.
Lovell’s has been around
for 70 years and many locals around the area love the small spot. It offers more than vinyl records and CD’s however, as it also sells DVDs and old-timey media like VHSes and cassette tapes, cheap items for people to collect.
“I’ve been coming here since I was a freshman in high school, it’s a cool place to just hang out at and browse the collection,” Micah Terrazas, a shopper at Lovell’s said. “They have a lot of good records… Not just [Lovell’s], but Uptown Whittier is a cool place. I have a lot of good memories associated with it.” The staff at Lovell’s are also huge music lovers and love to talk about their interests with customers.
If you’re on a budget and want to catch a movie, Starlight Cinemas is a very cheap place to visit as well. The ticket price fluctuates depending on what time you visit making the prices affordable. Central Park, a park not too far off from the shops over by Greenleaf, is also a great place to wind down. Earlier this week, a filming crew was at the park most likely filming for a commercial. It consisted of a woman jogging around the park with various other extras around.
Another Retailer Bites the Dust
Forever 21 Files for Bankruptcy Once Again
Wendy Garcia Reporter
It seems as if every month, another retailer is filing for bankruptcy and closing its stores. Whether it’s an arts and crafts company like Joann’s Fabrics or a party supply store like Party City, Forever 21 is no exception. This is the company’s second bankruptcy within six years, first filing in 2019 and now on March 16. This filing will liquidate the company’s inventory, bring store sales, and auction off company assets to acquire cash to fund employee wages and existing benefits.
The company has humble roots, with its first location opening in 1984 in Highland Park, CA, under the name “Fashion 21.” It was founded by South Korean immigrants who brought Korean fast fashion to their store, which proved effective as they began expanding across the world. Forever 21 became known as a staple for young customers who wanted to keep up with fashion trends at reasonable prices.
Forever 21’s co-chief reconstructing officer, Stephen Coulombe, points the finger at foreign fast-fashion competitors, such as Temu and
Shien. Coulombe specializes in stabilizing companies facing financial difficulties by creating financial strategies during an economic crisis. “The ability for non-U.S. retailers to sell their products at drastically lower prices to U.S. consumers has significantly impacted the Company’s ability to retain its traditional core customer base,” Coulombe said in the filing. New trends have directed consumers towards online retailers with fast and affordable options. To many, this filing may not come as a surprise. A shopper named Vimi pointed out, “Forever 21’s downfall is another sign that traditional mall-based retail is struggling to keep up with e-commerce giants like Shein and Temu. The fashion industry is changing fast!”
The company first filed for bankruptcy in Sept. 2019, leading 30 % of the company’s stores to shut down. Some stores began to downsize their stores such as shutting down their second floors, thus being the case at the Montebello location in California. Foot traffic began to slow down in the brick-and-mortar locations
as consumers started to turn to online retailers for their shopping needs. The company managed to avoid a complete shutdown and instead partnered with competitor Shein. This partnership allowed Shein returns to be dropped off at a Forever 21 location, and Shein would carry Forever 21 merchandise on its website. Forever 21 has also been surrounded by controversy in the past that may have affected consumers’ opinions. “Maybe if their clothes lasted longer than one wash, they wouldn’t be in this situation”, shopper Sophie Doe says. The company has faced backlash for its product quality, violating labor laws, copyright infringement, and even body shaming. The company faced multiple lawsuits over the years, leading to settlements that may have affected the business and hurt its reputation. However, there is a sliver of hope left for the company. A successful sale from a buyer may prevent a complete company shutdown and push the company to future online operations. But for now, store sales will continue and the website will remain operational.
Melrose Vintage of Uptown Whittier: Where Value Lives
Omar Lopez Editor-in-Chief
Uptown Whittier has a variety of different stores and shops that are worth buying from. One of those stores is Melrose Vintage, located at 6739 Greenleaf Ave, Whittier, CA, with the owner of the store
Robert Ruiz being prideful and even passionate about his store. Who is fortunate enough to expand his store and bring more customers to his establishment.
Ruiz is a first generation Mexican American who had started in the 70’s selling used military clothing as a kid in local swap meets.Once he got into junior high in the 80’s he focused on selling used Levi. Ruiz would go on to say, “By the late 80’s, the Levi were such a smash- I was doing so much work selling Levi. Wholesale, to big vendors to large purveyors that I realized I can make $1
an item if I resell to a business owner.” Seeing as how he can make money selling to business owners he began to expand his idea even further. “I can be a business owner and make more than a dollar,” Ruiz, said.
Photos by Omar Lopez
This would eventually lead to Ruiz opening his first store in Uptown in 1991.
What makes Melrose Vintage unique is how many different varieties of clothing they provide. There isn’t just a singular style or look that is tied to the store, there is a choice for everyone. With the clothing being a big part of the brand and having so much style and alternative aesthetics the clothes really are what makes the store what it is today. “I believe things can be made valuable, I think they should be cared for correctly,” with Ruiz Mentioning that the items they sell isn’t worth any less simply because it isn’t from big brands.
“We try to instill value, we try to make things cherished,” Ruiz, mentioned. He would wash, repair, iron, and hang items. Giving value to what once would have not been considered valuable. This is
something he instills into his employees. Everything has value and value can be given to something that is cherished. Respecting their customers as individuals and therefore offering items that have Value. Melrose Vintage only offers Value to its customers and cares deeply for the items they sell. With care and respect for the items that they acquire anyone can find a piece that they like
at Melrose Vintage. “For me its very important to provide our sell racks that are $10, $5, reasonable prices for our community,” Esther Ruiz, store manager. If you are looking to buy clothing, Melrose Vintage has you covered with prices that make your wallet happy and items that are valuable.
Photos by Wendy Garcia
Photo by Matthew Murillo
What It Means to be Editor
A Look Into El Paisanos Editor in Chief Omar Lopez
by Frank Seijas
Frank Seijas Reporter
Omar Lopez is a 21-year old student from Albuquerque, N.M., who’s notable efforts in the Rio Hondo College journalism department warranted his being named Editor-in-Chief of RHC’s El Paisano newspaper. A role he holds for the second semester in a row for the 2024-2025 school year. Such a title is something that can take a journalist a long way. However rewarding, managing such a position along with school and personal life can be a challenge. Despite some initial hesitation, Lopez has seemingly accepted the challenge and bares the title of EIC with pride.
Currently in his sixth semester at RHC, Lopez has racked up a good amount of experience in his short time in the Journalism department. He however had no prior journalism experience before RHC and believes having been in high school student government has truly helped. “Back in high school, I was part of student council. I even ended up becoming ASB president… nothing journalism wise, but
when it comes to my current position of EIC and work with other people, I would say that high school did prepare me for stuff like that,” said Lopez. Lopez started his journey with EPM as a photographer, never exactly thinking he would one day become EIC. Yet, it was his noticeable efforts which had him stand out to his professors. “I like his dedication to his work. So I decided to offer him the position,” said Aaron Martinez, RHC journalism professor. Despite his superiors believing Lopez was the right candidate for the position, Lopez initially had some doubts. “When I was told I would be EIC I was a little overwhelmed…EIC is being able to not necessarily manage, but being able to work with everyone in your newspaper, being very understanding and also staying on top of them. Because essentially you are ‘the boss,’” said Lopez.
Being EIC requires long hours, meeting deadlines, managing a team, and in Lopez’ case also juggling student and personal life. All of this gets put to the test when the newspaper is due to be printed. “If it were to be a printing weekend then the workload would be much higher…So I would have to read through stories Friday night and I would have to start commenting…I don’t really get much work done Saturday because I work with my father. We go around and do construction... I lay out the paper Sunday and I try to finish it as much as possible before Monday. And on Monday it is printing day so I have to get the layout and all the photos done within a certain amount of time before sending to upper ranks,” said Lopez.
Now in his second semester as EIC, Lopez has become more comfortable in his role. “I was given the chance to be EIC…it is very rewarding…the opportunities of me being able to say I am EIC…flex that title… it feels pretty cool,” said Lopez. Despite the hardships, the work comes with its well-earned rewards. In Lopez’ case he has a few to be proud of. “Five issues I was able to print all last semester…I have improved drastically, especially when I went to JACC (Journalism Association of Community Colleges). First time I went…I got nothing…this time…I managed to walk away with 2 awards…Considering that this team was new…the fact that they were able to gain more skills and overall improve on themselves as people…I really am proud,” said Lopez. What comes after RHC for Lopez? “I for sure want to transfer and graduate and get my bachelor’s...I want to make my parents proud,” said Lopez. Cal Poly Pomona is a school Lopez is considering due to its various prestigious programs and scenic views. Lopez has made a name for himself at RHC as EIC, but the time soon will come where he needs to move on and continue his educational and career journey.
It is noticeable that Lopez has grown during his time at RHC and that he is not done making an impact in journalism. “Stay dedicated to what you want to do. It doesn’t matter what it is…If you have a goal, dedicate yourself to that goal and do everything in your power to achieve it,” said Lopez. He is an astute individual that is encouraging of others and wants to see others succeed.
Sticks and Stones Art Gallery
Estefany Cardenas Reporter
Sticks and Stones art gallery represents established ‘wonderful’ artist into the college and bring in different perspectives. Not just a gallery that shows art but art that may influence and challenge students’ ideas. Martin Durazo friend of Professor Roberts Miller for over 20 years curated this gallery as historically Rio Hondo College has been open to different work and ideas Durazo stated “that things will be rough and they already have started to become rough in our country and the world right now so I started thinking about artist who weren’t afraid to use their voice and discuss things that are of importance right now.”
One of the featured artist Jenniffer Celio created 4 pieces that took months of work featuring Watercolor on acrylic and on canvas, cotton cord dowels, metal brackets and more. Celio stated she likes to bring attention to nature and environmental issues and our complicated relationship with nature.
Tricia Avants piece called Malarose: Something Elemental, Love,2025 focused on risograph prints of crystals, clam shells demonstrated on pedestals. Risograph prints one color at a time and Avant stated “some people choose to erase that though I like that texture it created,” When referring to the rough edges in the prints. The crystals used for this piece were rose quarts and malachite.
Bronze artist Nancy Evans showcased 2 sculptures featuring a stone face, “they are very heavy and to make something really large is going to be complicated” explained Evans. She now
works mostly with wax and creates castings but really had ‘fun’ with the opportunity to do that. Professor Cole James from Otis College presented her deconstructed piece named Clap Back 2025 where her materials were parts of ‘capitalist society’ such as credit card offers and even racist complaints she has received as an educator. One of her ‘favorite’ addition to the piece is part of another student’s art where she threw a brick through a window on campus so James collected the glass to add to her piece.
“That things will be rough and they already have started to become rough in our country and the world right now so I started thinking about artist who weren’t afraid to use their voice and discuss things that are of importance right now.”
Former RHC student Danie Cansino released a piece for the showcase called Jugadoras(294),2025 where she used oil paint on a serape. Essentially using this serape to create a canvas and then used a European style of painting to create her image of two women playing billiards. Truly inspiring work that will continue to be showcased at Rio Hondo College from March 17- April 25th in the Art Departments Gallery.
Honoring Culture through Dance
Aaliyah Avila
Rio Hondo College Division of Arts, Business, and Cultural Programs hosted the Tahitian dance group Te Aho Nui on March 18. The Te Aho Nui group is a Polynesian entertainment group who represent Tahitian dance, Hawaiian hula and so much more. Through their dance, this extraordinary group of individuals were able to tell stories and represent their culture. The immersive and entertaining performance allowed the audience to take an inside look at their culture. The visuals and explanations of dance allowed viewers to take a closer look into the true meaning of this beautiful form of art through dance.
Te Aho Nui was able to tell stories through their dancing, each move representing a part of a story. Bringing up participants from the audience
allowed individuals to have a better understanding of what they are trying to communicate through dance. The explanation of each gesture allows dancers to truly understand and feel the story they are attempting to get across. The intricate movements of the hands and hips show their gratitude for their food, ocean, culture etc…
Leolani Gallardo, a member and instructor of Te Aho Nui, expressed her gratitude for being able to be a representation of her culture, “It is such an honor. Any situation when anyone’s, especially a school setting like this academia, I’m honored you want to dance with us. This is why we do what we do, we want to share, spread the culture, perpetuate the culture and educate the youth.”
Representation, especially today, is crucial for individuals of different cultures to feel
seen and included. No one of any culture should feel hidden, therefore this event showed the beauty of both Tahitian and Hawaiian cultures through dance. Gallardo recognizes this and is a prime example of someone dedicated to spreading the joys of her culture.
When asked how she feels carrying on her legacy, Gallardo shared, “I feel a huge responsibility because technically, I’m FilipinoHawaiian descent. We shared a little bit of Hawaiian hula today, but I am not Maori and we did dances from New Zealand, and I am not Tahitian and we did Tahitian dances from Tahiti. So, having lots of friends from the islands, we are always trying to represent the culture with respect and humility in the best possible ways we can because we are not Tahitian.” Gallardo clearly states she is
not of the same culture some of the dances showcased descended from; however that does not stop the group from incorporating their culture through dance.
Dance is an art form that can tell many stories, both personal and historical, and that is exactly what this exceptional group of dancers does. Though there originally was a small group of individuals at the start of the performance, the sound of their music brought individuals together to enjoy this dance. Each member of the group is immersed in their dancing, and their love for their culture is shown through their passion for dance.
If you or anyone close to you are interested in being part of this outstanding form of representation, Te Aho Nui offers dance lessons both in person and virtually. The enrollment for their Spring
Quarter classes is open from March 24-April 12. If you would like to find out more about Te Aho Nui you can visit their website, www.teahnonui.com
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