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Celebrating Community College Month

April is Community College Month, which is celebrated nationwide. We recognize the important role community colleges play in shaping futures, helping communities, and expanding access to more education for apeople who want to continue a career.

Many individuals may think Community College is not the right move, but to some people, it may be a second chance to get something going to change their lives. Community Colleges offer many degrees, workforce development, the ability to transfer to a four-year university, and an affordable option to achieve their goals without the overwhelming debt in their minds.

Understanding the difference in financial aid between community college and university, Rio Hondo College student

David Gutierrez explained his reasons for attending community college instead of university.

“Community College is the better option financially. Community Colleges offer the same options as a four-year university,

but at a lower cost. Going to a community college first allows students to graduate with less debt than if they were to attend a university. This then allows students to truly focus on what

major they wish to pursue without the financial burden they may have.”

This month also gives us time to highlight the diversity that defines going to a community

Community college campuses usually reflect the communities they serve around them. They welcome all students of ages, backgrounds, and different abilities they have. The

smaller classes make it easier for students to receive support and build connections with others around them.

At Rio Hondo, there will always be academic support services and many student-led clubs and other programs. This community college is a place where students start to thrive in their careers and in the future. During this time, students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to participate in events and activities that showcase what makes community colleges unique. You can start by volunteering, sharing personal stories, or attending workshops to get a feel for things. There are countless opportunities to get involved and show pride in participating in a community college.

Community colleges can help build futures every day. It is the one month that reminds us that higher education is never out of reach of a person who may think it is. It can start at any community college, as long as they want to start the journey they wish to complete for their future.

College as a Non-Traditional Student: Possibilities at Any Age

The traditional age of college students is 18-23, but it has gradually increased. There are many reasons a student may have to put their education on hold or wait to go at an older age. Some individuals are not ready or cannot attend college after high school. Fortunately, community colleges are institutions at which non-traditional students are readily welcome. Non-traditional students can attend community college at their own pace and stand out for their hard work and ethics instead of their age.

There used to be a stigma when it came to going to school past a certain age. However, traditional students nowadays may view it as encouragement.

“I was amazed seeing a 60- year old man in my Chemistry class, studying hard and getting the medical career he always wanted. Helped me see that age doesn’t matter and encouraged me to keep going. What matters is achieving accomplishments whenever possible and ready. No one can compare themselves to others because everyone is at their own pace. Doesn’t matter how long it takes, just getting it done,” said third-year RN student Fernando Rodriguez.

Taking a break from school is a regular occurrence amongst non-traditional students. Victor Zamora III is a 45-year-old sophomore studying kinesiology and early childhood education. He decided to return to school and fulfill his dream of becoming a middle school P.E. teacher. “I am improving my skills. It’s a phenomenal time to be a student, with all the technological advancements. When I went to school the first time, I would say I didn’t have the right resources to know exactly what or how to do it. It felt like a waste of time. Now it feels right, and I recognize the challenges and appreciate the opportunities at community college,” said Zamora. Resources that allow for Zoom classes and a variety of programs, which can even be accessed from their phones, have made education more accessible.

Most students can agree that time management is one of the biggest challenges. This is especially so for some student parents, like 33-year-old single dad Ricardo Mayans, a second-year business & administration major. “Time management is what I really need to work on. Going to school, having to work, and being a parent to a 6-year-old little girl is an added challenge to try and manage.

Like having to communicate to professors when we need to miss due to our children being sick,” said Mayans. Fortunately, RHC has on-site resources like the Child Development Center on campus, which students and parents can use to have their children attend.

In the case of 55-year-old accounting student Mirta Delgado, things have been easier due to her children being older. “I started raising kids at a young age and the time came to do for myself. I wanted to move up at work, and since my kids are all grown up, time management has been easier, but assignments can be hard. Luckily I have never felt judged by students regarding age, and here at a community college, I can take my time and take only 1 class per semester,” said Delgado. The availability of various

computer labs and tutoring centers open for extended hours is a huge help for all students.

Being a student parent can have difficulties, but these students have a similar drive to show integrity and good values to their children. “It’s important to show my daughter that finishing school and being consistent pays off,” said Mayans. “Being a parent helps me because my son is viewing me as a student and how hard I work and it pushes me to do better,” said Zamora.

Rene Herrera, who has been part of the RHC faculty for 16 years, is currently the women’s head basketball coach and a fitness center instructor. He has had much experience with both student types and noted the differences. “With non-traditional students, there is a higher level of maturity and understanding.

They understand the responsibility needed for their classes,” said Herrera. Professors are understanding and may have had experiences similar to their students. Luckily, non-traditional students seem to be better about informing their educators if they need help or have scheduling issues.

Overall, students have to overcome many obstacles to earn their degrees. Even though attending school at an older age can be considered more challenging, it may have advantages. Older students have a lot more life experience and, at times, a higher enthusiasm to reach the goals they had to put off. Community colleges are schools that make it easier for all types of students to transition into and fulfill their educational dreams.

frank Seijas Reporter

Photo by Edwin Ramos college.

The Rio Source Room

Providing Basic Needs

Student life can be quite hectic with classes, assignments, scheduling, and for some, work or even parenting. It’s therefore no surprise that with busy schedules students can at times simply forget to take care of their bare necessities. College life can be demanding and not exactly inexpensive. Something as minimal as a free snack or school supplies can really make a difference to a student. Luckily, at Rio Hondo College, the RioSource Room is providing most basic needs to make student life easier.

The RioSource Room, managed by the RHC Basic Needs department, is located on the third floor of the Student Services building in SS-305. The center has been operating for almost 5 years. On average, 200-250 students walk in daily to take advantage of services like a free daily snack, weekly groceries, school supplies, hygiene products, diapers, the computer lab or lounge area. The center even does food demonstrations to show what can be made with items acquired from the pantry.

Civil engineering student, Mario Lucero, heard about RioSource through word of mouth. “I was told about the free snacks. When I am on the go and can’t buy a whole meal I stop by for a quick snack, and once a week for groceries,” said Lucero. Still, the RioSource staff would like to see more students take advantage of the services. “We want all students to know we are here and open to all. It’s great when one student comes in and discovers our services. Soon after, they come in with a group of friends or classmates. They help spread the word,” said Diana Lopez, student activities assistant for basic needs.

So what are the requirements? All you need is a student I.D. number to have

access to all available RioSource services. “There should be no stigma in coming for any kind of help. That is what we are here for. Our entire Basic Needs team are former RHC students. So we kind of understand what current students are going through. Students have it hard right now. So we try and provide a fun place where people can study and hangout and have something to eat as well,” said Dr. Jessica Perea, director of basic needs.

Perea oversees RHC holistic student support; working to connect students to basic needs resources like housing, food access, and supportive initiatives in conjunction with Hope Scholars and L.A. Food partnership. Staff is available to help with filing FAFSA, as well as CalFresh or MediCal enrollment, with over 151 certified programs to help students qualify. “We’re a hub of support. We connect folks with our case manager, who can assist with housing like shelter placements, transitional housing, bridge housing, or vouchers if eligible. We do CalFresh and MediCal applications on-site as well. Usually once a month we will have the Department of Social Services on site to make it easier for students,” said Perea.

Because the food pantry is an L.A. Food Bank partner site, community members can stop in for groceries as well. “Anyone can stop by for groceries once a week. In fact, during the pandemic we noticed the growing need when students were reaching out for help.

Even though the campus was closed, we had pop-up drive-up grocery distributions at least 2-3 times a month. About 700 cars per week,” said Perea.

The RioSource Room is open Monday - Thursday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Fridays 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information and featured content follow them on Instagram: riosource_room or TikTok: riosource.

Photo by Frank Seijas

Las Chorizeras Live Performance

Las Chorizeras Performs at Rio Hondo College

By Estefany Cardenas

Rio Hondo College has been known to create spaces for its students to bond and celebrate different cultures. The Art, Business, and Cultural Programs department welcomed Las Chorizeras to campus this past week. Las Chorizeras is a female Mariachi group that originated from Los Angeles, California. Their songs are inspired by country, contemporary, and traditional regional Mexican music, which creates an alternative and unique sound. Leader of the group, Nancy

Sanchez, said their name came from her birthplace, Toluca, Mexico, a city known for chorizo where everyone is called either a chorizero or chorizera. They want people to remove a sense of female empowerment from their group.

One of the songs they performed was Pecadora. This arrangement included the artistic styles of regional Mexican music, aspects of Folclorico to create the beat, and a “bass solo” done using a Guitarron. They left the crowd with a very intriguing performance, and they requested an encore.

Many students on campus for long hours can pass the time at these hosted events.

Not only was their music at Monday’s event, but also food. There were plenty of tacos, and food was catered to the student body free of charge. RHC student Molly Ramos said, “I like these events, especially for me. I am at school all day. I get here early in the morning and don’t leave until 7 p.m., so it’s nice to have just a break and be able to get food and relax and listen to the music.”

The event showcased the traditional Mariachi style and its evolution in today’s society. Student feedback, like Lohengrin Clauselle’s desire for more diversity and the suggestion for a DJ and 80s music, is a testament to the value of these events. Their voices are heard, and their requests are considered for future events.

It’s not just the students who benefit from these cultural experiences. The faculty, too, find value in these events as they provide a much-needed break from their routine. Las Chorizeras’ performance was just the beginning of such enriching experiences. Check the school’s bulletin boards for more upcoming events. You never know what experience is waiting for you.

Autism Acceptance Month at RHC

April is Autism Acceptance Month, and to celebrate, Rio Hondo College is holding various events and boards.

Earlier this week, on Wednesday , April 9, The event “Art Beyond the Spectrum,” a watch-along for the 2010 movie Temple Grandin, was held at the Student Union building. The movie is a biopic of the autistic scientist Temple Grandin. It explores her struggles in life and how, despite her “disability,” she’s able to accomplish the same things that others can.

On the same day, Rio Hondo held a board meeting and adopted the Autism Resolution. This marks the very first boardapproved resolution at Rio Hondo that acknowledges April as the month of Autism. It also encourages more support and action for people on the spectrum. Brooklyn Hunter had the idea to ask for a resolution.

Brooklyn Hunter, Senator of Student Success, was in charge of last year’s and this year’s Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month, which describes autism as having a superpower, not a disability. Hunter explains that although she may work slower than her peers, she passed through her high school years with straight A+s despite her slower processing. Autism also provides her with strengths such as hyperfocus and having

a unique perspective on things, “I tend to naturally ignore meaningless trends and peer pressure that a lot of people usually follow.” Hunter states that this allows her to focus more on her goals and dreams without the distractions others may have.

Another strength Hunter has is being a much better writer than a speaker. Though she describes herself as a “decent” speaker, she states that writing things out instead of saying them on the fly allows her to have enough time to process her thoughts and information.

Although she was in charge of the awareness and acceptance months both years, Hunter said she couldn’t have done it without help—services like DSPS and the library department, with more help from people like Heba Griffiths and her secretary, Aracely Romo.

In the future, Hunter hopes that the campus will become more supportive and accessible to students regardless of where they are on the spectrum. She also hopes the campus will be able to provide a safe place for people with disabilities, which would allow students to decompress, eat their food, have meetings or events, practice their presentation skills or do them, and much more. She also hopes to have more events for students in DSPS throughout the year, not just in April.

Outside of the Rio Hondo campus, Hunter believes that workplaces should give individuals with Autism a chance as if they aren’t great in one field, they could be better in another.

Rio Hondo will continue to hold many events centered on autism throughout the month of April, and Hunter is glad that it is being promoted more this year.

“TheolderIget,the morethatAutismbecomes moreofagiftandlessofa challenge.

-Hunter

Continue to support the month of April for Autism Acceptance month!

Photo by Estefany Cardena

Frank Seijas Reporter

Estefany Cardenas Reporter

Matthew Murillo Reporter

Minecraft Movie Review: The Good & The Bad

Mathew

Morales Reporter

Minecraft is a well known video game created by Markus Persson otherwise known as Notch by the community, it was first released on May 17, 2009, by Mojang Studios. After its release, Minecraft became one of the most highest rated games from critics and players and is still gaining millions of players from around the world till this day. So when Warner Bros. production along with Legendary Pictures production announced the Minecraft film back in 2014, fans were very excited, and after 11 years of production issues along with the pandemic, the Minecraft movie finally released to theaters on April 4, 2025. While the movie itself does serve justice to the video game with the large amount of content for the fans of Minecraft to enjoy ranging from references and easter eggs. Although, with the many references that the movie has

for the fanbase, it can also make it very difficult for people that haven’t played the video game to understand what’s going on in the movie. Roberto Hernández, an audience member who watched the film with his family at the Cinépolis in Pico Rivera, Calif. states “My kids were big fans, I liked it at times, but I didn’t understand it as well.”

Another one of the major issues with the Minecraft movie is the writing. While Minecraft the video game has no story to it and is primarily focus is for gamers to explore and survive in an open-world with their friends, Therefore, the story that the Minecraft movie tries to create and provide to audience members lacks severely in storytelling and gives the audience little to no depth or an explanation for the main characters and their backstories. Because of this, the Minecraft movie makes it difficult for audience members to gravitate or understand the

main characters entirely.

The introduction to the main characters of the Minecraft movie feels rushed in the beginning and provides moments that aren’t that important to the main plot that the movie tries to build.

Not only are their backstories not explained fully or don’t have an explanation, some of the main characters in the movie also don’t bring much of an impact on the film and continue to be either uninteresting and feel as if they’re only purpose is to make jokes throughout the movie. Not only does the Minecraft movie have an issue with the main characters, but also with the comedy.

While the movie’s main demographic is for kids, the comedy that the Minecraft movie provides does come across as very cheesy and corny at some points throughout the film. While the jokes and comedy in the movie may bring entertainment towards younger audience members, it feels as if

the movie relies heavily on the comedy rather than the action or emotions in the film. While the Minecraft movie has major issues with its writing and storytelling, the visuals of the movie were pretty good. While Minecraft the video game is well known for its pixel art style, and despite the art style not being present in the movie, the CGI realism still does a good job at depicting Minecraft’s world and atmosphere.

However, the choice of having the main protagonists in the film not being the same blocky style as the rest of the Minecraft world comes across as odd and sticks out throughout the film. In conclusion, the Minecraft movie provides a lot of content such as references and easter eggs that serves justice to the Minecraft community and its fanbase. However, as a movie itself, it lacks severely in writing a story for audience members to gravitate towards or even enjoy.

Disney’s “Snow White” Remake is Met With Public Backlash

“Snow White” Earns an Average Score of 1.6 on the Internet

Wendy Garcia Reporter

Disney has been on a streak of creating live-action remakes of its classic movies, such as “Cinderella”, “The Lion King”, “The Little Mermaid”, and now “Snow White”. “Snow White” was released worldwide in theaters on March 21. It stars Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen. The film was directed by Marc Webb, who also directed “The Amazing SpiderMan” reboot for Disney. The movie follows the classic 1812 fairytale of “Snow White” by the Brothers Grimm with modern sentiments. The movie was not well received at the box office or among moviegoers, who gave it a 40% review on Rotten Tomatoes, with many differentiating opinions.

Disney has released 19 live adaptations of their classic movies, each receiving mixed reactions among audiences. This adaptation ranks amongst the top 10 live-action remakes according to its opening weekend box office numbers. This latest addition has left many with a bad taste due to the off-screen controversies surrounding the film and its cast. The biggest obstacle the film had to face was its casting. The actresses attracted controversy to the movie due to their personal and opposing political views over the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Gal Gadot’s stance in support of Israel drew boycotts from activists. Rachel Zegler’s outspoken pro-Palestine views drew negative press for her and the movie.

One of the most significant and most sensitive controversies surrounds the lack of dwarfism representation. The story consists of seven dwarves who become friends with Snow White and aid in her quest to reclaim her kingdom. The audience believed that Disney should have had actual dwarfism representation instead of creating them out of CGI. “It would have been very nice if the dwarves were played by actual little people,” noted moviegoer Peter Andrews. Dylan Postl voiced their disappointment in Disney as

an actor with dwarfism who fights for these roles. “These dwarf roles are for people of my stature...now think about the additional stunt actors or body doubles, now you’re talking about multiple actors of my stature that don’t get these major roles,” Postal argues.

The movie’s message was one of empowerment and kindness to some, while others believed the film tackled too many woke themes. The film changed the original ‘dated’ storyline to bring a modern edge of women’s empowerment.

Zegler’s comments about the

Movie Database

movie drew mixed reactions, “We absolutely wrote a ‘Snow White’ that ... she’s not going to be saved by the prince, and she’s not going to be dreaming about true love; she’s going to be dreaming about becoming the leader she knows she can be and that her late father told her that she could be if she was fearless, fair, brave and true.”

Social media went into a frenzy with arguments in support and against the new changes.

The movie is in theaters and expected to arrive on Disney+ this summer.

Photo by Wendy Garcia

LA County Is Set to Lose $4 Billion In the Largest Settlement in County History

Wendy Garcia Reporter

Los Angeles County has been served with major lawsuits of more than 6,800 sexual abuse claims. The alleged abuse comes at the hands of county-run juvenile detention centers and probation department facilities. The county reached a settlement of $4 billion last week, on April 4. The settlement was approved by the LA County Claims Board and is pending final approval from the Board of Supervisors. This financial settlement would be the costliest for the county in its history, surpassing recent settlements against the Boy Scouts of America and the Los Angeles Archdiocese.

This filing and presumptive settlement come after California passed a state law in 2020, Assembly Bill 218. This bill allowed survivors of childhood sexual abuse to have a three-year window for filing past cases. The allegations against the county detail cases of abuse conducted by employees at county facilities, such as MacLaren Children’s Center and Probation Department facilities. The claims range from the 1980s to the 2000s and share similar cases of abuse conducted by physicians and probation officers, predominantly against children and teens. “On behalf of the county, I apologize wholeheartedly to everyone harmed by these reprehensible acts,” LA County Chief Executive Fesia Davenport said. The filings claim that the county failed to investigate claims properly and failed to adequately hire, train, and supervise employees working with children.

The county has been experiencing an ongoing funding deficit due to the recent wildfires and federal budget cuts, which will be further amplified due to this costly situation. The settlement will be distributed to its recipients through annual payments in the millions through 2051. LA County plans to pay the settlements with cash from reserved funds, obligational bonds, and departmental budget cuts. A county employee who declined to share their name states, “I think the possibilities of layoffs seem likely, and we may also see a lack of promotions within our departments. We may also see a hiring freeze, which sucks because we are shorthanded as it is.” What the county does for departmental budget cuts is unclear, but it will most likely lead to long-lasting cuts within the county.

In response to county failure, the county has agreed to implement additional programs to ensure accountability and abuse prevention. Davenport emphasizes the importance of creating systemic change “to keep young people safe.” The county will establish a countywide hotline for reporting sexual abuse against county employees and emphasize a zero-tolerance policy with immediate action. The investigative reform will include a system to expedite investigations and allow outside experts to provide additional review.

The LA County Board of Supervisors is expected to review the settlement on April 29, 2025, which may lead to its approval or amendment.

Everyone Deserves A Second Chance

Celebrating Second Chance Month and Its Importance

Aaliyah Avila Reporter

April is known as “Second Chance Month” and Rio Hondo College is proud to provide numerous ways on how individuals can earn their second chance. From April 7th to 14th events will be held on campus for those in need. Any individual who has been impacted by the justice system is now earning an opportunity at a second chance. Thanks to the Rise Scholars Program, the individuals being affected have countless opportunities to pursue their dreams. The widespread of events being held throughout the month offer chances to build up to the level someone wants to be at.

To kick off the event, on April 7th Rise Scholars is in collaboration with HireUP and the Career Re-entry Services in order to host the “Second Chances Resume Builder Workshop.” Here attendees will have an opportunity to receive assistance with their resumes. Resumes will be proofread and helpers will ensure the resume is in the best condition to guarantee a successful job. Taking advantage of this opportunity can benefit those who are seeking help to find a job. Using this opportunity to one’s advantage can clear their mind before jumping into a career, whether it may be personal or professional.

Confused on what to wear to job interviews? There is no need to stress because the “Dress for Success Community Closet and Networking Workshop” provides the attire appropriate for interviews. The generous and mindful occasions being

held can help jumpstart one’s career. Seizing these opportunities can potentially be life changing for participants hoping to finally start up their career. These are just two of many other beneficial events being held throughout this celebration of second chances. Besides offering phenomenal help, this social event is a chance for individuals to connect with one another. Knowing that there are other people who may be struggling the same truly shows that no one is alone. Utilizing all of the events being held for this awareness can potentially turn people’s lives around in the best possible way!

The variety of events being held throughout the month

may allow those struggling to find a light at the end of a tunnel. Finding a community where others can relate to one another can be beneficial both mentally and physically. Communicating with those who truly understand the struggles one is facing can help create better mental health and self esteem so individuals do not feel alone.

A second chance does not come around very often, therefore individuals should seize this opportunity to create new opportunities for themselves. In order to find out more information about the event visit RHC HireUp on Instagram- @ rhc_hireup, or check student emails for flyers on the event.

H&M L.A. Event: Music and Fashion Collide

This past week, on Wednesday, April. 12 H and M hosted an annual fashion and music mini-festival. The event featured artists like Doechii, Pink Panthress, Jamie XX, Robyn, Etc!! There are different types of genres and stages as well.

The setup was from between 5 stages known as “Club spaces.” They also included free water across bar stations and food bars such as Pinks, In-N-Out, and Roy Choi. The creative officer for the H and M event, Jorgen Anderson, had an idea to have it in LA because he mentioned, “We love LA,” says H&M Chief Creative Officer Jorgen Andersson.

“There is a bohemia that is innate to LA, and I know the design studio at H&M were very inspired by that idea.” Plus, Anderson adds, “the

influence of LA on culture is enormous — even if you’ve never been you feel like you have, because you’ve seen it in so many films, so many paintings or photographs. We wanted to celebrate that iconic status.” He feels like Los Angeles is the place to be, as they had the same event at h and m in London.

Also, it is mentioned that this festival takes place all around the US and the country; it is just a special type of work that the H&M coordination and people who work for H&M like to work on. In that way, they can also express themselves, and that’s why the stages come along, the artist comes along, and fashion designers come along. Hence, it is a very varied and out-of-scene event. Doechii, Robyn, and Jamie xx aren’t the only musical ties to H&M’s spring plans — Tyla, FKA Twigs, and Caroline Polachek appear in the S/S 2025

collection’s accompanying campaign, which offers fresh pieces ideal for festival season and summer concerts, as they are for a big night out.

Reflecting on going to see EDM come on stage between the first night and then going to another stage on that was representing black culture and Black History Month, That was a type of events that was very open and to do anything and H&M is known to be diverse. Their models, the sizing, and everything that goes along with it that’s why H&M has always been in the business still and still pain respects to people who either are a part of color or either or just wanted to representation in media and so this type of events are also for the people that want to coordinate into that and so that’s why every genre was going from different stages and that was why it’s so important

to even enjoy genres because in that way we can know where everything else is set for that, Like always music brings people along even talking to people making friendships even meeting people that like to see music as you it’s always

interesting to know that these artists are performing they’re all and always working hard and so it’s very nice to see that they come out for a local event such as this one for fans.

Esmeralda Rodarte Reporter

Photo by Esmeralda Rodarte

Spring Parks After Dark

Estefany Cardenas Reporter

Looking for something to do this spring? Los Angeles County is hosting its Parks after Dark program from March 27th -April 26th. If you are looking to relax, socialize, concerts, or even play sports with other members of your community this is a program for you. Parks offer many amenities, such as Basketball courts, skate rinks, playgrounds, and grilling areas. There are so many things you can utilize as well as the atmosphere.

If you are not able to make these program events you can always utilize the parks on their own. Plan a game with your friends or create a posting to meet new people in a match. Go on a walk, flowers are blooming and new life is sprouting. Go enjoy the park atmosphere, you could even plan a picnic with your friends out and create a charcuterie board to enjoy. With Easter around the corner now is the time to plan your visit. Some community members ‘enjoy’ when these events take place. Community member Eva Mejia stated “the activities they have are really nice for my kids but I’ve seen they also have

different things for the adults too but like it just depends what time you get here.” Although they offer several arts and crafts for children this program also has concerts lined up as well as dance parties appropriate for all ages.

Another member of the community Nathan Kozlo shared “I never really go to those things, they aren’t really like my thing but I like coming here to skate and just like meet up with my friends but I guess you also meet new people here too.” Although not active in the programs there are still many other things to enjoy at your local park.

Several Parks will be hosting a variety of events, one of the closest parks to Rio Hondo College would be William Steinmetz Park Located 1545 S Stimson Ave, Hacienda Heights CA 91745. They will be hosting their event from April 10th12th. This park specifically has Tennis courts, a walking trail, playground, outdoor gym and a recreational center. Several other parks in Los Angeles will be hosting events through the spring and again in the summer so make sure to check in with your local park to see if it will be hosting any events!

Coachella 2025

The Ultimate Guide to This Years Hottest Acts and festival Fashion Trends

Marissa Chavez Reporter

Coachella season is officially upon us and as we wait for the festival to begin, here is what we can expect to see performances and fashion statements. While the exact number of performers has not been officially disclosed, previous editions of Coachella have typically featured over 150 acts. This year’s headliners consist of Lady Gaga performing April 11 and 18, Green Day and Travis Scott performing April 12 and 19, and Post Malone closing the festival on April 13 and 20. The festival is located in Coachella Valley, CA and is held for three days for two weekends. Festival goers that chose to stay at the festival’s car camping site for the weekend are invited to see two djs that are only performing for the campers. Weekend one will have the opportunity to see DJ Chris Lake on April 10, while weekend two will be able to watch Disco Dom on April 17 on day zero. This is the first time that the festival has ever hosted a day zero with an actual performance specifically for campers.

The Coachella Music Festival is not all about who’s performing, it’s a great way to showcase your personal style while trying new foods and discovering new artists. The weather in Coachella Valley during the springtime is extremely hot and sunny from when the sun rises and nice and cool when the sun sets. Many festival-goers take advantage of the nice weather and wear summertime attire. This includes many flowy dresses and skirts, shorts and skirts of all lengths, tank-tops, cropped shirts, big chunky boots, and comfortable sneakers. As for accessories, be prepared to see lots of statement jewelry, hats of all kinds, headscarves, and belts to elevate a look.

The three-day event has not officially set the time for each artist to go on stage. The festival has six stages that are occupied with performances from 11 a.m. to to midnight. Coachella has three main stages: the Coachella Stage (the largest), the Outdoor Theater, and the Gobi Stage. In addition, there are several smaller stages. Such as The Mojave, Sahara, and Yuma stages. Some performers we can expect to see on day one are Missy Elliot, Benson Boone, The Marias, LISA, the Prodigy, Parcels, FKA twigs, Mustard, Mau p, GloRilla, and Yeat. Day

two will have Charli XCX, the Misfits, Keinemusik, Above and Beyond, Ivan Cornejo, Clario, ENHYPEN, Shoreline Mafia, and T-Pain. Lastly, day three will be with Megan thee Stallion, Zedd, Junior H, JENNIE, Kraftwerk, beadoobee, Polo & Pan, XG Basement Jax, and Keshi. These are only a few of the artists that will be performing the two weekends. The festival is an all-age event that welcomes everyone to experience the fun the festival has to offer! If attending, make sure to stay hydrated and take advantage of this once-a-year festival!

Summer Nights At Uptown Whittier

Aaliyah Avila Reporter

Every other Wednesday, Uptown Whittier hosts a night market where small businesses can run pop-ups with their products. The streets are closed for three blocks so that this takeover can occur. The variety of vendors within this event ensures there is something for individuals with all types of interests. From dog clothing to the hottest trends, there are endless products for everyone. For foodies, there are countless food trucks with variations of food, desserts, and drinks. This enjoyable event is an

experience that allows small businesses to grow their following and buyers. The latest trends, such as Sonny Angels and Labubus, are being sold within the market, allowing collectors to purchase them at a low price. There are tote bags with the Los Angeles Dodgers printed on them being sold, as well as trending clothing. From vintage pieces to sales for $10 a sweater, the variation of items is immaculate. Not only is there clothing for people but also items for dog lovers. There are shirts, bandanas, sweatshirts, and more for dogs. There are also free massages

being offered by Fejab Spa in Whittier, giving people a chance to release some stress.

Food trucks offer foodies impeccable service and a variety of foods and beverages. No matter if you are a picky eater or vegetarian, the food options are endless. The authentic food different cultures showcase within this event allows individuals to become closer to others’ cultures.

Inclusion and representation throughout the event allow everyone to feel seen. Delicious desserts, such as churros and shaved ice, can be enjoyed here.

A whole block is dedicated to trying different foods, ensuring something for everyone. Sitting and enjoying an environment full of good vibes can unite the community. There is always new entertainment, from Selena impersonators to World Wrestling Entertainment fighting. Something new occurs at each event. Individuals attend this market to have a good time with good friends and food. Attendees show their appreciation for the event by dancing and laughing all throughout Uptown. With summer coming up, this night market is an opportunity

to endure that summer feeling. The Uptown Whittier Night Market is also a convenient and safe place to spend summer nights. There are several trendy items to be purchased that can make for a comfortable, endearing summer vacation. Not only is the night market available, but attendees can also enjoy the Uptown Cinema and the other stores Uptown offers. There is never a dull moment while attending this event, and it is ensured that it will be for all ages. Children may play in jumpers while parents kick back and enjoy a bite to eat.

Photos by Marissa Chavez

Photo by Matthew Murillo

Alexander Almendarez Reporter

Miscellaneous

Roadrunners Blank LA Harbor 5 - 0

A Strong performance from Nieto propels dirty birds to 2nd win in a row

The Roadrunners took the field Thursday to begin the second of their three-game set against LA Harbor. The Dirty Birds are coming off a win on the road Tuesday, in which they scored 22 runs to the Seahawks’ 9.

The Roadrunners looked to freshman Paccelli Nieto to take the mound Thursday. The first few innings flew by as both teams were held scoreless. The scoring drought was broken in the third when Rio Hondo’s Wes Pendleton flew out to center, allowing a run to score. The dirty birds kept their foot on the gas in the fourth as second baseman Michael Salcedo led off with a double to later score on a groundout from first baseman Marcus Hernandez. Starting third baseman Matt Covarrubias then stepped into the box, delivering a ground ball base hit past the diving shortstop to score a run. he fifth inning was uneventful as both teams went down in order. The dirty birds’ bats weren’t kept quiet for long, though, as in the sixth Salcedo ripped a double to left to leadoff the inning. Designated hitter Josh Zarate followed with a deep flyout to center,

allowing Salcedo to advance to third. Right fielder Josh Vaughn then stepped up to the plate and beat out a dribbler to third before immediately taking off for second on a heads-up play as no one was covering, intentionally getting caught in a pickle between first and second, allowing the lead runner to score.

Starting Pitcher Paccelli Nieto trotted back out to the mound in the 7th looking to continue his strong start against the Seahawks. He began the

inning by getting lead-off hitter Isaiah Aguilar to pop up in foul territory, followed by a groundout to first and a flyout to center, leaving LA Harbor scoreless again. Shortstop Diego Helguera led off the bottom half of the inning with a base hit to left. A hit-by-pitch passed ball, and an intentional walk later, the bases were loaded for designated hitter Josh Zarate. However, on a pickoff attempt by Seahawks pitcher Tyler Muller, the ball got by the second baseman

The Torpedo Bat Controversy

Does the player make the bat? Or Does The Bat make the player?

Edwin Ramos Reporter

Recently to start off the 2025 Major League Baseball season, there has been arguments due to a weird looking bat coming from the New York Yankees. This first started on March 29 of this year when viewers found that a bat used by Yankees player Jazz Chisolm Jr. had a wider shaped barrel on the bat.

The look of the bat has a thicker size close to the handle instead of where the barrel is located. The reason why there

is more wood on the lower part close to the handle is because most of the time that is where players hit the ball compared to the barrel area. The wood that the bat has inside of it where the barrel is gets removed and is inserted to the label of the bat close to the handle to have that thicker design.

The creator of this design of the bat is Aaron Leanhardt, a former physicist from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who worked together with Yankee staff to

Djo’s New Album

Esmeralda Rodarte Reporter

If you are not aware of the infamous actor from Stranger Things, Joe Keery, Is a very known musical genius. From his viral hit “End of beginning” He has debuted his third album called The Crux.

Djo Is known for his alternative pop music and groovy Indie pop mixed music as well. From having that viral hit exploit and come to be and having a motive and exceeded highlight for the next album, This album was gonna be the

make this bat for the players.

This has started a league wide controversy over this because people are believing the bat size is illegal and should be banned. Others believe the opposite and think it is good to use as long as it is on the legal side of measurements.

Due to this huge topic Major League Baseball has come forward and said that the bat is legal and does not break any measurement of the legal bat sizing. In the MLB, the legal barrel size is 2.61 inches and the

and Rise to Fame

highlight for his next career.

Djo has even been an artist since his start up from stranger things and comes about how he has to work from his day to day life from actor and musician. A Lot of people that didn’t know his rise to fame only knew him as his role on “steve” off the Netflix series.

From his interview with apple music He explained on how it was a really big epitome of his life knowing that from that song he’s going to have to continue on making a better album and he felt like he got his

confidence boost because he has made music since 2018 And he felt like he’s having really got recognition and even from fans explaining on how he hasn’t gotten any type of recognition he feels like he can do better and get better from being an artists from this point on.

He mentioned “But doing this project, it made me come back to working more Collaboratively still producing stuff but with other people it was a real joy to have friends and family and outside musicians coming in and bringing this thing to life”.

and trickled into the outfield, allowing every runner to advance and score another run.

Nieto continued to the mound for the 8th, going through the lineup 1-2-3 once again before attempting to close it out in the 9th. Apart from the first two hitters of the inning making it on base, Nieto had no issues in the 9th, finishing off the complete-game shutout of the Seahawks, giving the Roadrunners a 5-0 win and a series win. “He did a great job; when he throws strikes he’s

‘torpedo bat’ does not break that measurement making it legal to use for all players.

There have been players who have openly expressed their thoughts on these bats and some include pitchers who have to face hitters with these bats. Some pitchers believe that they may be at a disadvantage against hitters who use this bat.

Trevor Megill told MLB Network, “I feel like it’s something used in slo-pitch softball. But it’s the Yankees, so they’ll let it slide.”

really effective… we did a good job just following his lead, he was just pitching so well we want to play defense for him,” voiced coach Mike Salazar.

The Dirty Birds brought the brooms out Saturday in a 17-2 rout of LA Harbor completing the sweep and extending their winning streak to three games. The roadrunners will head back home to reset and prepare to host the first of a three-game set Tuesday against Cerritos.

This topic is a huge part of baseball for pitchers because if they feel as if they are at a disadvantage, what would they be able to do to level the playing field for them against the hitters.

Getting to interview a fan

Named Evelyn Munoz from Palm springs is also a big fan of djo and she is always showing and having the love for him, She is so excited to see djo in the upcoming month at san diego, Hence Djo having an upcoming tour “The back on you world tour”.

From following up his coachella performance as well. Evelyn said she adores the album and one of her favorite songs is “Golden Line”, She is just mostly excited to hear the new album live.

However The crux is an album The house is Up Funk beats uplifting in the pop sound and Electronica tones and making

The ‘torpedo bats’ have become a big part of a player this season. The part that people have to understand is that it’s not the bat that controls if it hits the ball, it’s the player using it so the bat may work for some but it may not work for most as they would have to get used to it.

it seem like it has a type of catchy Tunes and one of the songs being “Delete ya” and “Basic being basic” has some type of Bittersweet indie funk momentum. If you are very into indie rock and pop funk vibes Having some inspirations like tame impala and Mac de marco, This is the album you would love to enjoy in the summer.

Photo by Alexandder Almendarez

Photo Illustration by Edwin Ramos

Photo by Esmeralda Rodarte