El Paisano Newspaper vol.58 issue 9

Wednesday May 8, 2019

Serving the Rio Hondo Community

Volume 58 Issue 9

RHC 2019 Presidential Race After an extensive search, the Rio Hondo Community College District Board of Trustees have narrowed down the Presidential Candidates to five.

DIANA JUAREZ Managing Editor

diana.juarez8805@my.riohondo.edu

NOAH GARCIA / EL PAISANO NEWS

The above graphic is made for artistic value, and in now way displays any favoritism among any of the candidates. With the resources available, this publication has decided to use this student made design to represent the story.

Five Competitors, One Position An open forum Showed the RHC community the possible leaders, that are here to steer them towards greatness.

A public forum was hosted Monday at the Campus Inn from 1pm to 5:45pm where he Superintendent/Presidential hopefuls Marvin Martinez, Dr. Cynthia Olivo, Dr. Patricia Hsieh, Dr. Alberto Roman, and Dr. Arturo Reyes had the opportunity to speak.

Moderated by Benjamin Duran, president of PPL Inc., a consulting company for community colleges, the open forum was live streamed so that people that couldn’t attend could still be informed.

Dr. Roman, vice chancellor of human resources at the Los Angeles Community College District, spoke of his concerns for students and the reasons they drop out.

Student minded and student centered is his main focus. Like many students at Rio, Dr. Roman is an immigrant and first generation student. It is these experiences that leads Dr. Roman to put student welfare before anything else.

“For me it’s about being student minded and student centered...My primary core value is to help students, and particularly those students that are disadvantage...The second is to make sure that our faculty, staff, and administrators have the tools they need to succeed.

There’s institutions where Continued on Page 12

NEWS

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Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Celebration SAMUEL GARCIA Reporter

samuel.garcia8465@my.riohondo.edu

VINCENT FRANCO/ EL PAISANO NEWS Yoshio nakamura, speaking at the RHC cultural event, May 1st, 2019.

Israel’s Missile Defense System CHRISTIAN SALINAS

Reporter

christian.salinas2108@my.riohondo.edu

With something that looks like it came straight out of the video game Call of Duty, the Iron Dome/ Weapon Defense system looks spectacular.

It is built to detect and take down threats from enemies. The system was built and developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Israel Aerospace Industries.

Boasting a proven track record, the defense system has caught the eye many countries, including the U.S. army who’s set to buy the Iron Dome Weapon System this year.

It is part of Israel’s defense system, and has some powerful capabilities. Since its inception in 2011, it is the most used missile defense system.

It has a success rate of over 90 percent and protects populated regions in Israel.

That’s why it was developed in the first place, and has intercepted or stopped more than 1,500 targets.

What makes the system more so unique is that the cost is affordable for the U.S. and can work in any weather conditions. In 2014 , Raytheon came into the picture.

“Raytheon provides stateof-the-art electronics, mission system integration, and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; as well as a broad range of mission support services.”

That is a statement straight from their website and they started providing sub components to the Tamir missile five years ago.

“Tamir missiles feature

Wednesday, May 1, Rio Hondo College held its Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Celebration.

Yoshio Nakamura, who served as a vice president of community services at Rio Hondo College, spoke at the event.

He spoke about the stereotypes Asian Americans face: doing well in school and being labeled “overachievers.”

“Stereotypes that are even positive may have other consequences for some people,” he noted.

As a junior in high school, Nakamura and his family were taken from their home in El Monte and incarcerated in an internment camp in

Arizona.

They were interned for “no particular reason” other than being Japanese-Americans.

Nakamura likened the experience to being a prisoner of war.

In 1942, Nakamura was drafted into the war and became a member of the all-Japanese-American 442nd Regimental Combat Team.

He’s proud of the fact that this unit is the most highly decorated unit in U.S military history.

“Even though I came in late, I was still a part of it.”

Despite the incarceration of many Japanese-Americans, Nakamura felt that this was a “teaching moment” for the country.

He was especially proud of the fact that the people who

were incarcerated did so “with a great deal of grace.”

“If there are lies that are being circulated as truth, or exaggerations of small incidents, be very suspicious,” he noted. “Look into these rumors that are floating about.”

Christina Almanza, who’s the Senator Chair of the Cultural Diversity Club at Rio Hondo College, arranged the celebration.

She wanted to not only create a platform to honor Nakamura, but to create a space where all students could feel welcome.

She felt it was especially important for the Asian and Asian-American students to feel “part of a community” and to feel represented.

electro-optical sensors and steering fins with proximity fuze blast warheads.”

It is capable of intercepting threats that are 43 miles out. It can work day and night, along with being functional in rain, fog and dust storms.

“Ten Iron Dome batteries protect Israel, and each battery includes three to four stationary launchers with 20 Tamir missiles and a battlefield radar.”

The U.S. version of the Iron Dome is called the “SkyHunter missile”. The average unit cost is $50 million per battery and $40,000 per missile.

The purpose of the system was to protect Israel from Lebanon whom which fired rockets in densely populated areas in the 1990’s. Fast forward to 2019, it is considered one of the best defense weapons in the multi layered defense of Israel.

It’s only a matter of time that this system will be implemented in many other countries.

Ones military could never be too large or not have enough devices so it would appear that the U.S. According to the Defensenews.com, “the U.S. is still assessing a variety of other options but the U.S. has been examining acquisition of several batteries of the Iron Dome since mid-2018 to fill the Army’s Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment two needs.

Initial reports indicated the U.S. would spend 373 million to purchase two Iron Dome batteries.”

All of Israel’s missile defense were developed with U.S. support.

Page designed by Noah Garcia

NEWS

Help?

Home?

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Hope?

NOAH GARCIA / EL PAISANO NEWS Although homelessness has decreased 17 percent in 2017, as stated 2018 Homeless Plan released by Whittier, the 204 sheltered/unsheltered individuals are persistent - With the city that they call their home taking steps forward and backward in the past several years in order to help this downtrodden group of people. This image is taken right before the cleaning of the Whittier green belt, alongside Mar Vista Street.

The Future of Whittier’s Homeless While the amount of homeless Individuals have shrunk, the issue remains at large.

NOAH GARCIA Editor-in-Chief noah.garcia3720@my.riohondo.edu

It’s midday and the sun is bright and the wind is flowing- acutely accompanied by the drone of the traffic building up along Whittier boulevard.

You stop at the light between Mar vista St. and Whittier Boulevard, where a homelessness encampment resides parallel to you.

Shopping carts, umbrellas, tents and blankets are the prime constructs of this public residence, one which stays the same size no matter how close or far you are to it.

Turning onto Mar Vista, going through the uptown area, the displaced individuals claim the sidewalks as their residence, for at least a little while.

That moment in time is now gone, as the residents of the Whittier Greenbelt have been cleared out by a combination of law enforcement, social services and Caltrans , April 22, 2019. With the 38 tent community disassembled, many of the residents have been sent off, either on their own accord or to accept Whittier Area First Day two month hotel vouchers. It’s been weeks since the clean out and Whittier has already begun plans to make sure such an encampment would never form again.

Council members Henry Bouchot and Cathy Warner, officials in the committee to tasked with overseeing the city’s homelessness action plan. Bouchot spoke to El Paisano on the current Homeless situation in the city.

NOAH GARCIA / EL PAISANO NEWS A homeless individual on the corner of Greenleaf Ave and Mar Vista St. In front of Garcia’s Fresh Meat Market, April 29th, 2019. While the cleaning of parks have displaced a lot of these unsheltered individuals, This person has taken a long refuge at this bus stop. “ One of the things I’ve noticed is that the public and the government and the service have a different time table than those who serve the homeless. They recognize that you have meet people where they are, to take time and create trust, and you have to find creative ways to get them homes…”

While the idea of homelessness is cut and dry( without a home), the reason for said issue is wildly complex ,stemming from economical and personal issues. Solving the problem is even more complex, as so many sides that all strive for the same goal have different understandings and expectations than each other.

Bouchot Spoke on how some people think it’s easy to just take an unsheltered individual to a shelter and that’ll solve the issue, but this perception is shortsighted. “ Some people have 32 traffic tickets, no drivers license, they got lice, un-

treated mental health issues, substance abuse, trauma - if your a victim of sexual assault, I met a woman out in the encampment, she was the victim of rape- do you think she wants to live in a communal environment ? She tried once and started having nightmares ; so she went back to the streets.”

The clearing of the Whittier greenbelt was preceded

the April 11th clearing of Parnell park, where another encampment was cleaned up due to community events and public safety.While homelessness has always been an issue, it has been harder for law enforcement to clear out areas due to a court decision last September. The case from Boise, Idaho had declared that a said that activities such as sleeping, are

basic human rights of which stopping said individual from doing so would be cruel and unusual punishment.

Whittier California, as stated by the Los Angeles County Homeless Services Authority, accounted for 204 homeless individuals in the year of 2018. 73 of these peoples being unsheltered, with the remaining 23 residing in emergency shelters. While there has been a 20 percent decrease of the accounted population since 2016, the site does not record unsheltered youths ( 18-24) and is a statistical estimation based on a comprehensive census.

These Finding helped to form the “City of Whittier Homeless Plan 2018-2021” , a plan adopted in July 2018 to decrease and eventually eliminate the amount of people designated as such.

While the formal decision and plans have not been released to the public, the proposed plan can be found on the cities website.Whittier City council meets every second and fourth Tuesday of every month, in City Hall.

You can Contact the City Clerk Department for additional information.

While this issue is still being hotly debated, it’s undeniable that it’s one that shall affect the lives of these downtrodden peoples, as well as the city itself.

NOAH GARCIA / EL PAISANO NEWS One of the residents of the former Whittier Greenbelt, checking their bike, April 20, 2019 - While each shelter is specialized for each person, they are made from several different components, such as tents canopy’s, tarps and blankets.

Page designed by Noah Garcia

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Santa Fe Springs Art Fest SAMUEL GARCIA Reporter

samuel.garcia8465@my.riohondo.edu

Friday, May 3, the city of Santa Fe Springs held their sixth Annual Art Festival.

Showcasing the works of more than 200 artists, the event also raises funds for art and creative youth programs across the city.

Marie Ortiz, the Media Director/Event Coordinator for the festival, says that the event is a great way for the community to come together and appreciate the arts.

“Art is everywhere,” she says. “People get to see magic happen.”

The festival’s featured artist was Yolanda González.

González has been involved in the arts for 35 years, and this was her first year attending the event. For González, art is a source of “inspiration and energy” for her.

“I have to do it. No choice,” she chuckled.

Along with González, the event had two other guest visual artists: Trinity Gomez and Anthony Fuentes.

Gomez is a junior at Sonora High School. She attended her first art show when she was eight years old, and has always been fascinated with paints and colors. For her, art is about expanding your imagination.

“Being able to interact with people, sharing the gifts that God gave me, that’s what I enjoy,” she said with a smile.

Anthony Fuentes was originally a film student at Rio Hondo College. While at Rio, he attended a student art show and immediately fell in love with the “gallery vibe.” He likes the fact that people can critique his work, whether negative or positive.

SAMUEL GARCIA / EL PAISANO NEWS

“Art is expressive. It’s about letting emotions out and

“Art is everywhere.

People get to see magic happen.”

- Marie Ortiz, Media Director/Event Coordinator not holding things in,” he explained.

Fuentes utilizes yellows, pale pinks, and light blues in his work, colors that have him “feel good.” So, hopefully people have the same experience when they see these colors together.

One of the more unique exhibitions at the event was the trompe l’oeil.

This exhibition involves artists utilizing prosthetics and makeup to turn their subjects into fantastical characters. Lily Moreno, one of the artists involved in the exhibition, is a big fan of comic book characters, and enjoys going to comic conventions. She really enjoys “turning people into characters” and is a selfdescribed “nerd.”

As to why this festival is important, the consensus among the artists is that it helps to inspire the next generation of artists.

“You can make a living as an artist,” said Moreno.

“It’s not just a hobby. It’s an amazing opportunity.”

The event also held its second Annual Film Festival, where hundreds of filmmakers were given the chance to show off their projects. In addition, the event also had musical entertainment, food trucks, and vendor tents. These tents sold buttons, jewelry, and other sorts of trinkets.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Remembering Peter Mayhew DAVID IBARRA Reporter

david.ibarra4617@my.riohondo.edu

Peter Mayhew, who was most known for his portrayal of the infamous Chewbacca in the original Star Wars films, has passed away at the age of 74. He passed away last Tuesday in the comfort of his North Texas home, according to a tweet posted to his Twitter account. Mayhew’s cause of death has not been released.

There will be a family and friends memorial June 29, followed by a fan memorial in Los Angeles in early December, according to the release posted to his official Twitter account.

In the tweet posted to his account, Mayhew is remembered as a man who brought to life the Wookie character in the original films, episode 3 of the prequels, and the New Trilogy. The latter of the films requiring Mayhew

to recover from being in a wheelchair to appear as “Chewie.” “He put his heart and soul into the role of Chewbacca and it showed in every frame of the films from his knock-kneed running, firing his bowcaster from the hip, his bright blue eyes, down to each subtle movement of his head and mouth,” the statement read.

“But, to him, the Star Wars family meant so much more to him than a role in a film.”

The 7-foot-3 actor was coming off of spinal surgery he had last year in order to help his movement. His height and physique was a driving factor in his casting to play the Wookiee, as director George Lucas was looking for a tall, lanky man to portray the sidekick to Harrison Ford’s Han Solo.

Mayhew’s successful portrayal of Chewbacca in Star Wars, which has become one of the most successful film franchises in history,

allowed him to travel the world and meet fans of the film and his character. It was a performance that allowed for him to quit his job as a hospital orderly and fully indulge in the character he created. Though the actor didn’t voice the Wookiee’s gurgle, the quirky movements and vivid eye gestures are what drew a connection to fans worldwide.

In his post-acting career, Mayhew has elected to start his own foundation, the Peter Mayhew Foundation. The organization is described as a “nonprofit organization devoted to the alleviation of disease, pain, suffering, and the financial toll brought on by life’s traumatic events,” per the organization’s website.

The news comes as a melancholic blow to fans of the franchise. In the coming days, fans will celebrate May 4th, which is known and celebrated as “Star

JAIME APARICIO / EL PAISANO NEWS

Wars Day” for its pun on the infamous phrase “May the force be with you” from the films. Disneyland Resort in California is also set to open their new Star Wars land

Galaxy’s Edge in the coming weeks. Mayhew is survived by his wife Angelique Mayhew and their three children.

The Jonas Brothers Announce Upcoming Tour ASHLEY LOZANO Reporter

ashley.lozano1408@my.riohondo.edu

The Jonas Brothers have officially announced their Happiness Begins Tour this week with 40-dates around North America starting this August.

This is a major comeback for the band, who broke up in 2013 due to “a big a disagreement over their music direction,” and will be their first tour in almost 10 years. The tour, which will also feature singers Bebe Rexha and Jordan Mcgraw, will begin in Miami and

end in Los Angeles at the Hollywood Bowl in October.

“The moment we’ve all been waiting for… The #HappinessBeginsTour is coming to a city near YOU. Can’t wait to bring this show to life and hit the road with @beberexha and @ jordanmcgraw!,” The band tweeted.

The trio band surprised fans earlier this year when they released their single “Sucker” and announced that they had gotten back together. “Sucker” topped Billboard’s Hot 100 list after its release.

“Here’s to all of us that have loved them since the Disney days,” a Twitter user posted. “We made it guys, through the early days of fangirling and any hardships of our personal lives. We made it to see the Jonas Brothers in 2019!”

The band also announced via Twitter that fans can now pre-order their new album, Happiness Begins, which will be released June 7. Fan merchandise was also released for purchase through their website.

Fans can now register with Ticketmaster’s Verified

“The moment we’ve all been waiting for… The #HappinessBeginsTour is coming to a city near YOU. Can’t wait to bring this show to life and hit the road with @beberexha and @ jordanmcgraw!”

Fan presale to receive early access to tickets. Pre-sale tickets go on sale May 7 and May 10 for the general public.

- The Jonas Brothers

Game of Thrones Season 8: Episode 4 Dracarys ESTEVAN MACIAS Reporter estevan.macias6303@my.riohondo.edu

After the huge war fans had to endure last week, we are still reminded that with 3 episodes left, someone still has to be on the throne. This episode is a great reminder of that and we are now preparing for the end. As we triumph over the heartache and insanity of the last episode, let’s get into this one with SPOILERS AHEAD of course.

Heartbreaks and New Stakes

After the battle has been won, we get a farewell to the soldiers we lost during it.

In a nice funeral scene we even see Arya seeming to be sad, an emotion she hasn’t expressed in a long time. We then see Danerys rewarding Gendry by making him Lord of Storm’s End which is most

likely her trying to create another ally. The Gendry fanfare keeps going as we even see him propose to Arya after the fact. Arya denies him as that isn’t who she is, leaving Gendry alone. That’s not the only heartbreak as Brienne confesses her love for Jaime and both embrace until Jaime shows he still cares for his sister and has unfinished business. After Bran reveals Jon’s true identity to the last of the Starks.

Who is the Mad Queen?

As Danerys has lost many supporters with even Varys not believing in her anymore, we begin to question if her sanity is okay. This continues as we experience an attack towards King’s Landing, taking out her dragon leaving her with only one left. With a failed attack, we get a shot of Cersei standing atop of her golden castle. Next to her is

JAIME APARICIO / EL PAISANO NEWS

Missandei taken hostage from the battle and being used as a negotiation ploy. As Tyrion tries to negotiate with Cersei, we know she is not one for surrendering and without

bending the knee to her we say bye to Missandei with her last words being “Dracarys.”

We are lastly given a shot of a frustrated Greywurm and ticked off Daenrys which

brings the question, will she go mad queen onto King’s Landing? We’ll just have to wait and tune in to next week’s episode to find out.

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LIFESTYLES

Determined to Finish: On To Cal State Long Beach JAIME APARICIO A&E Editor

jaime.aparico2474@ my.riohondo.edu

In today’s generation, creating a job to fall back on is a lot easier than to go out and get educated for and search for a job that caters to said studies.

After high school, it appeared to be the stigma to go straight to college and attempt to study for a field that would most suit the individual, but that seems to have faded out with time.

As technology has made it easy for practically anyone to appear in front of a camera and communicate to a wide range of people, for some, attending college is no longer a factor to achieve “success.”

This was not the case for Madelyn Gastelum, but not at first.

“I kind of realized that

JAIME APARICIO / EL PAISANO NEWS

“I kind of realized that I do want to, maybe accomplish more. . .”

- Madelyn Gastelum

I do want to, like, maybe accomplish more because I was just, like, so confused,” said Gastelum.

Miss Gastelum ultimately decided to go on and play volleyball for Rio Hondo while carrying a full-time schedule of credits.

“Volleyball was the driving factor and then finish all my course work here at Rio and then I applied to a four year after that,” she says.

During her time at Rio Hondo, Gastelum acquired a liking to journalism by writing for the school newspaper, El Paisano, under the tutelage of supervisor Wendy Carrera.

As a reporter for El Paisano, Gastelum has not only written for the paper but has also appeared in front of the camera for online the segment Rio RoundUp while also appearing as an anchor for several news packages.

And while some parents would be somewhat hesitant to support their child in such a field, Gastelum’s father supports her all the way.

Even so much as to wanting to record every taping of his daughter whenever possible as she makes her way onto her career of broadcasting journalism.

Not to disregard her mother’s love and support as she is also happy that Gastelum has achieved so much while attending Rio Hondo.

She did; however, wanted her daughter to persuade a career as a doctor or a nurse.

So with Gastelum on the verge of finishing her studies at Rio Hondo, she continues her path onto greater things by transferring to Cal State Long Beach and achieving her ultimate goal of being a broadcasting journalist, possibly for a sports network.

So we here at El Paisano would like to congratulate our fellow journalism peer on her success thus far and wish her the best of luck on her future endeavors. Good luck, Maddy.

Both friends and family came to see and support El Paisano’s own Madelyn Gastelum at last weeks signing for their transfers to Cal States. Simply referred to as “Maddy” in the newsroom, Maddy has been one of the several students and reporters to inadvertently showcase an excellent example of what hard work can accomplish. On her way to better things at Cal State Long Beach, Maddy balances both two jobs and her studies.

LIFESTYLES

First Hijab Wearing Model Makes History ASHLEY LOZANO Reporter

ashley.lozano1408@my.riohondo.edu

A model made history for becoming the first woman to wear a hijab and burkini on the cover of the swimsuit edition of the magazine, Sports Illustrated.

Halima Aden, a Somali-American model, who will appear on the May issue. She was welcomed by Sports Illustrated as their newest member of the ‘Sports Illustrated

Swimsuit Magazine family’.

“Ladies anything is possible,” Aden wrote on her Instagram. “Being in Sports Illustrated is so much bigger than me. It’s sending a message to my community and the world that women of all different backgrounds, looks, upbringings... can stand together and be celebrated.”

This isn’t the first time the 21-year-old has received publicity, in 2016 Aden was also the first model to compete wearing a hijab and a burkini

in the Miss Minnesota USA pageant.

Although history is being made, it’s causing a bit of a controversy. People took to Aden’s Instagram to voice their opinion on the cover.

For the most part people are praising the model for changing the game, but others aren’t too happy about her wearing a hijab and burkini on a national magazine.

“I can’t believe Muslims are actually supporting this.. this actually makes my heart cry”, an upset commenter wrote under her photo. “”Change the game”?! You can’t change the rules. You can’t change what Allah told us to do and this is definitely not Hijab.

Hijab means covering up not wrapping.”

Regardless of people’s opinions, Aden made history and still has many supporters that admire her for her cover photo. “YOU JUST REPRESENTED SO MANY OF US.., one commenter wrote. “I had a lot of strange gaze from around me whilst wearing burkini anywhere in the world—and now you made it LEGITIMATE!!!

So proud of you!!!

Thank you for this.”

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Education is A Journey ANGELO TORRES Reporter

torresangelo90@gmail.com

It’s already May. This is not a Justin Timberlake meme; this is not a drill.

Despite feeling like it began only a short while ago, the semester is almost over.

My first piece of advice, stop reading your college newspaper and study. Even a few hours of pounding away at a pen and paper or a computer keyboard can make a world of difference on your final exams or that essay due in a few days.

But for those of you at the end of your rope, or that have encountered a hurdle in your life that is taking valuable studying time, or whose intense anxiety is preventing you from even opening a textbook, remember you always have tomorrow.

I’ll share personal anecdote. I did not take a single college course in 2018. The previous Summer I thought I’d join the graduating class of 2017, but after some unfiled paperwork, a failed math class, and a new job I didn’t realize would take up so much of my time, my acceptance to Cal State Long Beach was rescinded and I ultimately did not transfer.

I became depressed, disinterested, and by Fall 2017

I had given up on school. For a long time I thought failure meant the end.

Everyday for a year, I walked home from work, doused in sweat, dishwater, smelling of rotting food. This was my life now, and as far as I knew that was my future. In my self pity, I thought I had wasted the time I invested into school. But the one thing I learned from my failed math class, was that an investment is never a waste.

Education isn’t a narrow path that you can stray from.

It’s a journey. It’s easy to suggest a student study their eyeballs dry or work through their anxiety, but failure is not the end of the road, it’s a roadbump.

That’s the most important thing for student to remember at this point in the semester.

So take your failure and learn from it. Double the amount of studying you did this semester, start learning about resources you hadn’t been aware of this semester.

As depressing as that time in my life was, take a year off from school if you really think you need it.

Make your own revelations. Education is not a destination, it’s a journey, and the path to completion is up to you.

HALIMA ADEN/INSTAGRAM

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas NICHOLAS JUAREZ Reporter

nicholas.juarez4729@my.riohondo.edu

With Mother’s Day approaching fast, many of us are left with the uncertainty about what we should get our Mothers. Our Mothers gave us life and nurtured us our entire life.

This is the one day out of the year where we show our love and appreciation for them.Getting the right gift or getting one on a budget can be hard, but no worries that is what I am here for to give some ideas on what to get your mother.

Always remember it doesn’t matter how expensive the gift is, it’s the thought that counts.

A spa day could be what your mom needs to unwind from work and take some much needed time for herself.

The day of Mother’s Day you could tell her you have plans and surprise her with the spa day, which could be a relaxing Mother’s Day.

Spas tend to be on the pricey side, so if you’re looking for something simple that comes from the heart, nothing says I love you like a card and her favorite flowers with breakfast in bed.

If your mom is a Dodgers fan like mine, the Dodgers will be doing a giveaway for all Mother’s in attendance and they will receive a Dodgers scarf.

Winerys are good if your mom is into wine, she can tour the facility as well as try different types of wine as well as her favorite..

Taking your mom to her favorite restaurant where you can bring the family together to celebrate and enjoy the day.

Having a barbecue with the family or even cooking would be good to bring the family together.

Groupon is always a good website to check because Groupon offers discounts and deals to make things affordable.

“This is the one day out of the year where we show our love and appreciation for them.”

ANAMARIA APARICIO/ EL PAISANO NEWS Many retail stores have sales specifically for mothers day. If you have siblings and are on a budget, pitching in on a gift can save you guys money.

SPORTS

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Augustine Dipped In Gold Rio Hondo Swimmer and Diver Aaron Augustine Took First Place at the California State 1-Meter Diving Board Competition Friday While Getting Second in 3-Meter IGNACIO CERVANTES Sports Editor

ignacio.cervantes8813@my.riohondo.edu

Friday, May 1 Aaron Augustine took gold in the 1-meter diving board competition at De Anza College’s second day of hosting the California Community College Athletic Association 2019 State Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Championship.

The Rio Hondo Roadrunners swimmer and diver recorded a 287.50 in the final round which bettered twotime champion Josh Hamby from San Joaquin Delta’s 273.80.

The score ended hopes

PHOTO COURTESY OF ATHLETICS.RIOHONDO.EDU

Freshman diver Aaron Augustine, in black jacket, won the gold medal Friday, May 1 at De Anza College

Signing To The Next Level JESUS MANRIQUEZ Reporter

jesus.manriquez9661@my.riohondo.edu

Being a student athlete is more than just playing games here and there during the week. In a way, It is a life professor that teaches you some of the most important things in life, such as hard work, discipline, team work,

with three members of the women’s volleyball team were recognized at the Rio Hondo aquatics complex in a small but captivating ceremony in front of teammates, coaching staff, family and friends for their achievement of transferring to a 4-year institution and signing their letters of intent to continue their edu-

Karina Banda ( Cal State University, Dominguez Hills) were honored by head coach Jennifer Tanaka-Hoshijo and her staff.

Coach Tanaka-Hoshijo said she felt so proud of her ladies and her project.

“For us, the most important thing is for the girls to pursue their academics, and

IGNACIO CERVANTES / EL PAISANO NEWS

Eight student-athletes from Rio Hondo committed to their next chapter following their Roadrunners careers.

commitment and working under pressure. Wednesday, May 1, nine of Rio Hondo College student-athletes from the soccer and volleyball team were recognized for their hard work out in the field and inside the classroom.

Six members of the women’s soccer program along

cation and athletics for some

Soccer players Izella Delgadillo ( University of La Verne), Marissa Morales ( Kansas Wesleyan University), Viviana Ramirez ( Kansas Wesleyan University), Natalia Magana ( Cal State University, Fullerton), Flor Suarez ( Briar Cliff University), and

it’s awesome to see they can use soccer to help them get their education” Tanaka said.

“They have put in so much hard work, commitment, energy and heart for them to have the accomplishments that they’ve had.”

In the 11 years that coach CONTINUES PAGE 10

of a three-peat for the Delta diver.

It took a forward-1 and a half inch somersault with a 1-twist for an 8.5 that ultimately won Augustine the top of the podium over Hamby.

A day before, Augustine earned a score of 259.95 in the 3-meter competition and made the podium there as well with a second place spot.

It adds to the list of accolades the Roadrunners freshman has been collecting all season, including an All-American honors. The South Coast Conference 2019 Diver of the Year also won first place in the 1 and 3-meter competitions.

Calling Kansas Two-year soccer player ready to take on next chapter in career in the Midwest SAM GARCIA Reporter

samuel.garcia8465@my.riohondo.edu

Marissa Morales played soccer during her two years at Rio Hondo College. In that span, she was part of a defensive unit that recorded 20 shutouts. Thanks to her display on the field, Morales will be transferring to Kansas Wesleyan University for the upcoming Fall semester to play soccer for the Midwestern university.

“The defensive line was just on it,” Morales says. “We were very compatible and worked well together.”

But Morales isn’t just an impressive athlete. During the fall semester of 2018, she earned a 3.6 GPA, which in turn put her on the President’s’ Honor Roll. But that’s not all. Her overall GPA sits at a healthy 3.2. Not too shabby.

Being as modest as she is, Morales won’t talk much about her individual awards and accolades, so we’ll embarrass her a bit here. Individually, she racked up some pretty impressive feats.

“I just really love school,” she said while laughing.

Last week on Wednesday, May 1, the Rio’s Athletics Department held its annual Signing Day event at the campus’ aquatic center in front of staff, family, friends and fans.

The event focused on the women’s soccer and volleyball

programs which see some of its players transferring to four-year universities. Many of these players will continue their athletic careers in the next level.

Jennifer Tanaka, head coach of the women’s soccer team, is happy to be a part of her athletes’ journey. She says that the skill-sets they

IGNACIO CERVANTES / EL PAISANO NEWS

Marissa Morales committed to Kansas Wesleyan Wednesday, May 1 at Rio’s Aquatic Center.

learn through athletics, like “being responsible, setting goals and working towards those goals,” are all life lessons that can be applied anywhere.

During the 2017 season, she was a South Coast Conference First Team All-Conference selection. This past season, she was a Second Team All-Conference CONTINUES PAGE 10

SPORTS

9

Destination Oakland IGNACIO CERVANTES Sports Editor

ignacio.cervantes8813@my.riohondo.edu

Wednesday, May 1, life became larger than volleyball for Rio Hondo College sophomore athlete, Felipa Moreno.

The communications and

business major signed her commitment away to Mills College, a private women’s liberal arts university in Oakland, Calif. to continue her volleyball career and begin the next phase in her education.

Upon graduating from

IGNACIO CERVANTES / EL PASAINO NEWS

Signing Day 2019 at Rio Hondo College for Felipa Moreno saw the three-season volleyball player commit herself to Mills College in Oakland, Calif. to feature on the indoor volleyball team and major in communications. Moreno will leave Rio with an Associates Degree.

Pioneer High School in the summer of 2016, Moreno was heavily recruited by both women’s volleyball head coach Teddit Esko and women’s soccer coach Jennifer Tanaka.

Ultimately, Tanaka won her over and Moreno featured on the Roadrunners soccer roster as a goalkeeper for her freshman season.

After redshirting for both volleyball programs, the communications and business major finally found herself on the court with coach Esko’s volleyball team in the fall of 2016.

“It’s been a road for her,” Esko said. “Going from this sport to this sport and so forth, it’s been really fun to see that it’s coming to a head in a postive way.”

All that hard work and a little bit of a rocky road was worth it for Moreno who is preparing to move miles away from home and finally get what her coaches and teammates feel the ex-Pioneer student deserves.

Despite Moreno leaving her family for a new adventure, Moreno mentioned that a lot of what she has accomplished will go down as an win for her and her family as well.

“They’re really supportive with everything I do,” Moreno said about her parents Griselda and Rito Moreno. “So when it comes to me leaving them, they are OK with it.”

As for why Oakland, Moreno said it was time for her to break out of her shell MORENO PAGE 10

COURTESY UFC

Donald Cerrone left Al Iaquinta bloodied after UFC record 23 victories.

UFC: Ottawa DAVID IBARRA Reporter

david.ibarra4617@my.riohondo.edu

Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone seems to be getting better with age. The 36-year old turned back the clock on Saturday night when he defeated Al Iaquinta in the main event.

The official scorecard read 49-45, 49-45, and 49-46, all in favor of Cowboy.

The fight was a dominant display from Cerrone from start to finish. In classic Cerrone fashion, it took some time for him to find his groove. He began putting the pressure on after the second round. Cerrone’s game plan with leg kicks worked out well, as Iaquinta’s movement was compromised as the fight progressed. An accurate jab was able to put Iaquinta down for a brief moment in the third round.

Also, a laser front kick would send Iaquinta to the mat in the fourth. The fight ended with Iaquinta on the ground as well, battered and bloody. Saturday night was the first time Iaquinta was knocked down in his career.

As much as it was a

strong performance by Cerrone, Iaquinta equaled in heart. The New Yorker had his moments early on in the fight, but showed tremendous heart by sticking around to hear the final bell.

He absorbed a variation of 138 significant strikes. At the end of the fight, Iaquinta had to be helped out of the octagon to his locker.

Iaquinta and Cowboy both took home an extra $50,000 for having fight of the night. This was the second loss in three fights for Iaquinta, with both losses coming by unanimous decision. “Ragin’ Al” was in rough shape after the fight, so expect a long layoff for him. It shouldn’t be hard for Iaquinta to get back into title contention with a win in his next bout, but it is too early to say who it will be and when.

As for Cowboy, he is on a three-fight win streak and is looking stronger than ever.

Saturday night’s performance showed why Cerrone is the all-time leader in UFC wins with 23. The always-dangerous Cowboy looks towards a title shot or a dance with CONTINUES PAGE 10

LA IS RUNNING SOCCER IGNACIO CERVANTES Sports Editor

ignacio.cervantes8813@my.riohondo.edu

Los Angeles Galaxy designated-player Romain Alessandrini suffered a meniscus tear during April 28’s 2-1 win over Real Salt Lake but head coach Guillermo Baros-Schelotto thinks he has plenty wingers to fill in for the sidelined Frenchman.

“I think he’s a DP and we know what we are losing but we are confident with our other players.” Schelotto said.

Uriel Antuna, Chris Pontius, and even Emmanuel Boateng will be more than happy to eat the minutes up Alessandrini can’t seem to have an appetite for. The French midfielder has been

injured for lots of his time in Los Angeles and it seems Schelotto was well aware when joining the team of Alessandrini’s injury woes.

Just 27 days after the Galaxy announced Schelotto as new manager, the club announced the signing of Antuna. A Mexican international who, in 2017, was purchased by English Premier League giants Manchester City Football Club.

Alessandrini signed in January of 2017 and managed to appear in 30 matches and staying injury free. During his second season, two injuries kept him from playing in six games. Only two months into 2019 and the ex-Olympique Marseille winger has already missed four games

ALL PHOTOS BY BRAYAN ALTAMIRANO / EL PASAINO NEWS

from two separate injuries.

The important thing is that the Galaxy now have a bit of depth along with players that are bought into Schelotto’s plans as a unit.

The “next man in” feeling in the squad shows how the Argentinian manager has quickly adapted to Major League Soccer while driving the Galaxy bus into the right path.

The Los Angeles Galaxy

inched closer to MLS supremacy against Real when the victory put them one point behind Los Angeles Football Club for the lead in the standings.

The Galaxy’s biggest let down against Real Salt Lake was their inability to continue their first half dominance.

After the start of the second half, Real managed to grab a hold of the game and begin controlling the pace.

Just as Real began to take control from Los Galacticos, Zlatan Ibrahimovic plays protagonist once more and gave the Galaxy a lead they would keep until the final whistle.

Tune in today at 4:30 p.m. for the Galaxy’s trip to Columbus, Ohio for a matchup against the Columbus Crew Soccer Club. The next home game will be Sunday, May 11 when LA hosts New York City Football Club.

SPORTS

10

The Best and Worst In MLB Rookies are producing, promising newbies are leaving fans wanting more, and regulars are beginning to shine again.

DAVID IBARRA Reporter

david.ibarra4617@my.riohondo.edu

VERDUGO

1 UP Alex Verdugo (Los Angeles Dodgers)

Alex Verdugo has proved why he’s been on the top of the prospect lists for the past couple of years. In 85 at-bats, Verdugo is hitting .329 with an on-base percentage plus slugging of .936. With AJ Pollock on the IL, Verdugo is likely to see more plate appearances. He is a big reason why Los Angeles is number six in OPS, and continues to remind fans why he was never on the end of trade talks. Verdugo finds himself in the top 10 in pretty much every hitting category within the Los Angeles Dodgers and even found himself delivering the game-winning walk on Saturday against the San Diego Padres. Hopefully Verdugo is able to remain consistent while facing more playing time.

CUBS 2 UP Chicago Cubs After starting the season 1-6, the Cubs are back in first place in the NL Central.

They are currently on a seven game win streak including a series win over the Arizona

DAVID BANKS / AP

Diamondbacks, a sweep of the Seattle Mariners and St. Louis Cardinals. They have won seven of their past eight series and lead the league as a team in on-base percentage.

It has been an impressive turnaround for a star studded team who had seemed to be struggling to enter the season. They open this coming week with a four game set against the struggling Miami Marlins, and close out the week with a three game set with Milwaukee. Its safe to say the Cubs can continue their streaks.

RED SOX 3 UP Boston Red Sox The Red Sox are slowly turning into their championship ways. In their last 10, the Red Sox are 7-3. They have also managed to get their run differential from -27 to 0 within the past week.

This comes from a nine-run third inning on Saturday and a seven-run eighth inning on Sunday. Their offense has been hot, their pitching has been hot, and they have managed to work their way from dead last in the division to third place, five games behind the Tampa Bay Rays.

Red Sox starting pitching have provided quality starts in five of the past six starts.

GETTY IMAGES

All seems to headed upwards in Boston.

CA R D S 1 DOWN St. Louis Cardinals The Cardinals did not have the best week. In a tight competition in the NL Central, the Cards gave up 4 games and lost first place. Their three game sweep by the Cubs in Chicago took them out of first place. In a series where St. Louis was outscored 23-10 and only led for one of 27 innings, their pitching has failed them. St. Louis owns the top spot in the national league with 58 home runs allowed. The Cardinals are a .500 team against their division and have dropped four straight to the now-division leaders. Hopefully they bounce back when they take on Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.

HARPER 2 DOWN Bryce Harper (Philadelphia Phillies) Phillies fans have not yet been introduced to the talent that is Bryce Harper. The star, who signed a massive 13-year $330 million deal with no opt-out, has been particularly underwhelming

NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

this season. He’s only batting sub .240 this year and this week has been particularly bad for Harper. In 26 plate appearances over the past seven days, Harper is hitting .154 with an on-base percentage of .290. He has 4 hits and 9 strikeouts in those 26 at bats. It seems that Harper has some work to do before he earns the respect from the always vo cal Philadelphia crowd.

KELLY 3 DOWN Joe Kelly (Los Angeles Dodgers) For as good as LA has looked over the course of the season, there has been one glaring problem consistently.

Enter Joe Kelly. The reliever signed to relieve starting pitchers of their job, has made it slightly harder for the rest of the bullpen. Over the past week, Joe Kelly has amassed an abysmal 7.50 earned run average. He has pitched in 7 games and 6 innings, giving up five earned runs on eight hits. He’s struck out seven in the process also.

On the season, Kelly has a 10.13 ERA. Hopefully the LA native will fix his command sooner than later.

GETTY IMAGES

The Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Alex Verdugo are thriving as of late while expensive transfers Bryce Harper and Joe Kelly struggle.

MORENO PAGE 9 She’s been comfortable in so far.

The Mills College recruit felt that she knew everyone around here, so “I want something new for myself.”

The next few years at Mills, Felipa will be on for a challenge which she feels she’s ready for.

Beach volleyball couples partner Denyse Perez, who will be transferring to Cal Poly Pomona to study hospitality, mentioned Felipa’s competitiveness will keep her on the right path.

“Her goal is to win no

matter what,” Perez said.

“That’s why I know for a fact that when she transfers out I think it’s going to go great for her at Mills.”

Moreno mentioned that her drive and chosen journey were a product of coach Esko’s guidance throughout the Mills-bound student-athlete’s time at Rio. The 17-year Rio coach has always harped on making sure her athletes don’t forget what the real goal in life is while on her programs: a degree.

“She believes in every one of us,” Moreno said.

“Throughout the years I learn

something from her and she’s all about having an education and a future.”

At Mills College Moreno will feature in the Cyclones women’s indoor volleyball program coached by Jack Cowden. Moreno will also be studying business and communications to fulfill Griselda and Rito’s lifelong dream of owning a Mexican mariscos restaurant.

The soccer, beach and indoor volleyball player featured in a total six seasons as a Roadrunner athlete.

Soccer 2016, Beach 201719, and indoor 2018-19.

MORALES PAGE 8 selection. When asked about her success as an athlete, Morales brushed it off, owing her success to “hard work and determination.”

She’s majoring in nursing, and her ultimate career goal is to become a Nurse Practitioner.

Morales’s mom is a nurse, which had an influence on her career choice. But don’t think that she’s doing all this just to be like her mom. Morales, as mentioned previously, is just really passionate about school and has a great interest in nursing. No biggie.

UFC OTTAWA PAGE 9 lightweight superstar Conor McGregor next.”I want the title, whatever that means,” said Cowboy post-fight.

“Unless, Conor McGregor, you want to fight me in July.

I’m ready.”

As lightweight title holder Khabib Nurmagomedov is set to unify his title with interim champion Dustin Poirier later this year, a bout with McGregor makes sense for both fighters to see who gets a title shot next.

Other notable performances on the card include a 50-second knockout from heavyweight Walt Harris, a split decision victory for Shane Burgos, and a TKO stoppage in round 2 for undefeated featherweight fighter Macy Chiasson.Harris and Chiasson both received an extra $50,000 for their performances.

So what’s next? The UFC is back on Pay-Per-View next Saturday as Strawweight queen Rose Namajunas puts her title on the line in enemy territory against powerhouse Jessica Andrade in Brazil.

Look for a preview in the coming week.

SIGNING DAY PAGE 8 at Rio Hondo, 90% of her sophomores have transferred to four-year programs, a remarkable thing.

Volleyball players Madelyn Gastelum ( Cal State University, Long Beach), Denyse Perez ( Cal Poly Pomona) and Felipa Moreno (Mills College) were honored by their head coach Teddi Esko and her staff as well.

“These girls are like my daughters, and this day is special because it solidifies all the hard work and commitment” said Esko. “It is an opportunity to see everything tie together, we are all a big family.”

Izella Delgadillo, Flor Suarez, Karina Banda, Marissa Morales and Viviana Ramirez will continue to play soccer at their respective colleges, while Felipa Moreno will be continuing her volleyball career at Mills College.

Congratulations to these exceptional student-athletes for their accomplishments, to coach Tanaka and coach Esko, who along with their coaching staffs, have done a wonderful job in their programs. Best of luck to these Roadrunners in their future endeavors.

“They have a really good nursing program, and the soccer program is really good too,” she says.

And while it would be a great opportunity, she doesn’t foresee herself becoming a professional athlete.

“Yeah, I don’t think so,” she laughed again. “But it’d be really cool though!”

OPINION

11

Is 13 Reasons Why to Blame for Recent Suicide Trends?

ASHLEY LOZANO Reporter

ashley.lozano1408@my.riohondo.edu

Netflix’s original show, 13 Reasons Why, is once again a topic of discussion after a recent study revealed that suicide rates had gone up after the shows first release.

The show, which centers around 17-year-old Hannah Baker and her reasons to commit suicide, caused quite a controversy when it first premiered on the streaming service in 2017. The last episode of the season shows a scene on how Baker decides to end her life and many viewers believed that it was too graphic and was triggering to some.

CEO of Netflix, Reed Hastings, responded to the backlash from the suicide scene by simply saying “nobody has to watch it.” Although he does have a point, he could have responded with a more understanding statement.

The most recent research shows that suicides had increased 28.9% among Americans ages 10-17 in a month, after the release of the first season. With this new study being released a more appropriate statement was given by Netflix.

PHOTO/ BRAYAN ALTAMIRANO For an questions or concerns, please contact the suicide prevention hot-line.

“We’ve just seen this study and are looking into the research, which conflicts with last week’s study from the University of Pennsylvania (Which found the series may reduce risk for young adults who watch to the end.)” a spokesperson from Netflix stated. “This is a critically important topic and we have worked hard to ensure that we handle this sensitive issue responsibly.”

Suicide is a very sensitive topic and how movies or shows decide to portray it, is very important. They tend to show enough so the viewer gets the point but not too much where it becomes too

graphic for some. With the release of 13 Reasons Why, they decided to cross that line and show everything. Many disagreed with this decision, but I personally liked that they showed everything. Not because I enjoy seeing someone end their life, but because it showed the realness of someone going through with it and the reality of what they are feeling up to that point.

That scene actually scared me enough to never go through with suicide. It also as very open in ways young adults are driving each other to these very dark places. I think it’s important they show the many roles people play

so that we focus on treating people better and practice being more self aware.

Yes, the scene is very triggering but with the disclaimer in the beginning of every episode, someone who is dealing with suicidal thoughts should not be watching it at all. People cannot blame a show because people decided to watch it when they knew that it had scenes that can trigger suicide. The show also serves as a real warning to the people who are mean to others and anyone else who is considering hurting themselves. The show shows the consequences of peoples actions and how it effects everyone around them. Many shows and movies have scenes of suicide, so why are they mainly blaming this show?

After every episode, the show does let the audience about the awareness of these triggering subjects being spoken about in the show and suggest to call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Shows should be more spoken about suicide events because many people don’t know who to go to when they have these type of feelings and it could be a be impact.

An Uncomfortable “Race” Topic in The MLB CHRISTIAN SALINAS Reporter

christian.salinas2108@my.riohondo.edu

Very often whenever a race topic gets brought up or is being discussed, others get uncomfortable. Some would say a vast majority of people out there do. It’s human nature to feel a certain way in certain situations. The case of the Tim Anderson’s one-game-suspension is an interesting one, in the aftermath of what happened.

Tim Anderson is a very good, young shortstop for the Chicago White Sox. He happens to be black. Like many, when you hear the name Tim Anderson, he doesn’t strike you as someone who would be black. Just like the former Major League Baseball player, Khalil Greene, doesn’t necessarily sound like someone you would think is white. There’s nothing wrong with thinking that, however. That’s just from past experience of the names you encountered or heard of growing up, however old you may be.

Anderson crushed his 50th homerun off RHP Brad Keller of the Kansas City Royals a few weeks ago. That wasn’t the most interesting part of the day though, he flipped his bat in celebration, and the Royals took offense to the gesture. In his next

PHOTO/ ANEL CEBALLOS Tim Anderson received a one game suspension after using n-word.

at-bat, he was plunked by the same pitcher, Keller, he hit a homerun off previously. Tensions rose and a brawl nearly broke out as the benches cleared onto the field. Even the two managers for both teams got into it. Rick Renteria for Chicago and Ned Yost for Kansas City. It resulted in four ejections at the time, and Tim Anderson being one of the persons who got tossed from the game.

The more recent news about the story is that Tim Anderson has recently been suspended one game for his participation in the scuffle.

The MLB has suspended him for calling an opposing player

a “weak bleep bleep n-word.”

Anderson is not happy about it at and talked to Sports Illustrated recently about the situation. He said “That’s a word that’s in my vocabulary.

(Speaking of the n-word) When’s the last time Joe Torre’s heard that word?” Joe Torre being the former New York Yankees head coach, who happens to be white, and is now the MLB’s chief baseball officer. Whom is in charge of the group that does the suspending of players for certain violations and various other things for the league.

Anderson compared himself to Jackie Robinson. A former African American baseball

player for the Brooklyn Dodgers who broke baseball’s color barrier. Saying “I kind of feel like today’s Jackie Robinson.

That’s huge to say, but it’s cool man. Cause he changed the game and I feel like I’m getting to a point to where I need to change the game.”

So when you have Joe Torre and others working for Torre being mainly predominantly white, does it make it right for the MLB to suspend Tim? Now Tim Anderson definitely does not compare to Jackie Robinson. However, does him being upset and not feeling that it’s right for those people in power to use that word as punishment for someone who is and has been a victim of that word, right?

You may feel indifferent about this story if you weren’t paying much attention to it.

Heck, even if you are interested in the story, race topics are touchy but have immense meaning to trying to make a difference. However, it does feel somewhat uncomfortable by baseball punitively deciding to dole out punishment for Tim Anderson, doesn’t it?

Today, many people feel as though they should ignore race and not speaking about it so there isn’t controversy, but if we choose to forget our history then we are only destined to repeat it.

Should Jussie Smollett be Blacklisted From the Entertainment Business?

KIANA ARVIZU Co-Opinion Editior kiana.arvizu6791@my.riohondo.edu

Last week after announcing that empire will be returning for a sixth season, Fox also announced their decision to not bring back actor Jussie Smollett’s character.

Fox Entertainment and 20th Century Fox TV said, “By mutual agreement, the studio has negotiated an extension to Jussie Smollett’s option for season six, but at this time there are no plans for the character of Jamal to return to Empire”. This decision came three months after the actor claimed to be a victim of a hate crime, but the actor is being accused to have set up the attack as a publicity stunt.

According to TMZ, some of his peers on the show have expressed their disagreement with the network’s decision and have asked that the actor be reinstated. Among these rumored cast members are co-stars Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson. However, others have expressed the exact opposite. Joy Villa, singer and songwriter on fox, expressed that the actor should be “blacklisted from the entertainment industry”.

Unfortunately, Joy Villa is not someone whose opinion can really be considered, as she herself has been a very controversial topic in the entertainment business for her conservative political views.

The charges were dropped for the actor and although he has not officially been blacklisted from the entertainment business, the actor continues to receive backlash. I don’t believe that Smollett will have much luck in the entertainment industry after this scandal. I think once actors have trouble with the law, it is common for it to become harder for them to bounce back and land a role.

I strongly believe that the charges should not have been dropped for Jussie Smollett. I think race is a serious issue that our country is still struggling to overcome. For someone to try to abuse that to their advantage to move up in the entertainment business is wrong. At some point and even today, racism is and was continue to be very real for a lot of people all over the world. I believe that Jussie Smollett should pay at least some consequence for his action. I stand with Fox’s decision to drop him from Empire. I only hope it serves as a real lesson for the actor and anyone else who considers abusing the race card. It’s morally unacceptable.

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College 2019 Presidential Race DIANA JUAREZ Managing Editor

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Continued from page 1 that’s often not the case and it affects employee morale and creates a lot of issues.

Having a workforce that is supported fully with resources, training, and a good work environment is a core value that I believe is very important for us. And the third is decision making...As a leader, your job is to support the content experts, the classified staff, your leaders.

Here at Rio Hondo we have the strength, a lot of strength in your faculty and in your classified staff, and a lot of strength in your administrators..It is important to involve employees in decision making...But like in any other community college district, there’s potential for more.

There’s tremendous potential for more,” said Dr. Roman.

He commended Rio Hondo

for their work towards helping disadvantaged students through the Rio Source Room, but said we have a long way to go.

Dr. Roman spoke of the importance of not letting marginalized students fall through the cracks and helping them beyond the classroom. A holistic approach is Dr. Roman’s outlook when it comes to helping students reach their goals.

Between foster youth, LGBTQ+ students, dreamers, and beyond, Dr. Roman wants to create spaces where students of all backgrounds can go and know that they will find the help that they need.

Dr. Roman ended his time with sharing a mistake he made that helped him learn to become a better leader.

“We were doing some initiatives and changes in my department and at the time I was very young, I was in my early 20s, and I thought I knew what I wanted. I went ahead and implemented the changes with very little communication from my staff.

You can imagine how that went..It’s actually why it’s a part of my core values...I’m very fortunate to have learned this lesson early on,” said Dr. Roman.

Dr. Reyes, a superintendent/president of Mendocino College in Northern California since 2013, focused his speech on the fact that students suffer and why equity is important for incarcerated students.

But, not just students who may have been previously incarcerated, but even students who are currently behind bars.

Dr. Reyes has a passion for helping students with criminal records, he believes that people in jail deserve second chances given the disproportionate way in which some people are incarcerated.

His plans to budget for thisinclude using the existing programs but that students that need it actually receive it.

The Student Service Funding Formula, is one of many programs which include Guided Pathways and 875.

Their purpose is to make sure that every student has the opportunity to get a degree.

“It’s about ensuring outcomes for all of our students. And yes, it’s going to be a challenge because we no longer have the same funding like we used to. But I know that we can make it

12

work. I know the student success measures are going to increase and I know that this community will make it happen...This college, this institution, this community has the capacity to recognize that and be compensated for that... In the end, it’s about making sure that students succeed. And, at the end of the day if students succeed we are going to get paid more for them...I wanted to emphasize, I’m not about the money. We shouldn’t make this about how much we can get out of students that are looking for a loan. It’s about making sure that the students succeed. We’re going to get paid, community colleges aren’t going out of business, but our focus needs to be on the students and eliminating the barriers that keep our students from succeeding,” said Dr. Reyes.

Dr. Cynthia Olivo, vice president of student services at Pasadena City College. The granddaughter of crop picking immigrants and daughter of a single mother, Dr. Olivo used her personal story as a driving factor in helping her work toward the position she has today.

She strives to effect the education system and change was the main driving point of her speech at the open forum.

“I really want to strive for educational equity. Where everyone has a chance to become equal,” said Dr. Olivo.

During her 11 years at PCC as the vice president of student services, she said that she brought an energetic vibe to the department.

“My main goal is that I want to work toward state changes that will benefit the students,” said Dr. Olivo.

When asked what she could do to keep the safety of the students in mind she wanted to put an emphasis on the feedback from the student body. She says that she really wants to have a staff that will be responsive to all student needs.

In regards to students that are a part of the Disabled Students Program and Services (DSPS) she really wants to make them feel like they too can succeed by having staff that cares.

Dr. Olivia followed her goals with saying, “What I can bring to this college is something that others can’t.

I can bring a culture for change for Rio Hondo with my network connections skill sets, and my desires.”