Issuu

PAISANO

Tuesday February 13, 2018

RIO HONDO COLLEGE NEWSPAPER est. 1964 Serving the Rio Hondo Community

Volume 56 Issue 1

An Uncertain Future:

Helping to Keep the DACA Dream Alive JAIME APARICIO Reporter

jaime.aparicio2474@my.riohondo.edu

A healing circle and empowerment session for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA for short, was held Thursday, February 8 at the Student Union Center to help those who are undocumented on the Rio Hondo Campus. The meeting was conducted by staff who are both documented and undocumented in order to help guide those who are dreamers on campus. Even though the future of the DACA program seems uncertain, there are resources available to help cope with the frustration that seems to continue to linger on the shoulders of the program. The whole purpose of the DACA program is to help keep the families of the undocumented together and the positivity in the lives of dreamers who only wish to stay in the country and con-

JONATHAN MEZA/EL PAISANO NEWS

It housed mostly DACA students Thursday, but Rio’s Student Union Center provides a place for all students to be themselves and relax.

tinue to pursue a better life for themselves. Sylvia Juarez, who is the strong link between the government officials and the Rio Hondo community, notified the group of dreamers who met at the Student Union Center that a great way to battle the negativity that comes with being undocumented is to remain positive and strive for the best in doing excellent in their school work. For if anything, performing their utmost best is what keeps the dreamers in school and in turn in the country that only seems to find new excuses to postpone the DACA program. Aside from doing great in school, finding others who are relating to the stress and sadness of the situation is another way to help express confused feelings from what comes with being undocumented. The entire session was met with a lot of frustra-

Continued on page 3

Pico Rivera Holds School Board Meeting Following Teacher Gregory Salcido’s Anti-Military Comments

ZACHARY MEJIA Contributor zachary.mejia@gmail.com

The Feb. 6 El Rancho School Board meeting took place in El Rancho high

school’s gymnasium due to the anticipated large assembly. Most of the attendees were there to comment on the disparaging remarks made towards the military by Gregory Salcido, a city

councilman and high school teacher. During the meeting, additional accusations were made about Salcido, and his previous classroom offenses were noted as just cause for termination of employment.

Both the school board and community members condemned Salcido’s remarks, with the latter occasionally using profane language to express their frustration at Salcido and the school board

for not being prompt in handling his punishment. Prior to the public comment, Bonifacio Garcia, the managing partner of the new law firm hired by the city said Continued on page 4

Rio Hondo College’s Speech and Debate Tournament RODOLFO PINEDO Reporter

rodolfo.juarezpinedo277@my.riohondo.edu

Rio Hondo’s Speech and debate team traveled to San Diego this weekend to compete in the 2018 Round Robin and Sunset Cliffs Classic hosted by Point Loma Nazarene University February 9-11. Melissa Leon and Felix Rodriguez left bright and

early on Friday, February 9 to represent Rio in Open Parliamentary Debate at Round Robin. Through invitation only, Leon and Felix represented Rio as one of the 36 best teams in the nation to participate in the tournament. In the end, Rodriguez accomplished the10th speaker award in Open Parliamentary Debate.

The rest of Rio Hondo’s team arrived to participate in Sunset Cliffs Classics 2 day tournament. Rio Hondo ended the tournament strong with Gabriela Rodriguez

reaching her best record yet in speaking awards reaching fourth place in Junior Parliamentary Debate. Making it into the elimination rounds and winning medals, Jonathan Kaldas and Saul Garcia reached 4th place in Open Parliamentary Debate. In an overall contributing effort by all members of the team, Rio Hondo reached 4th

place in best Community College in reaching high speaking points. A huge contribution by the teams newest Coaching staff Patricia Hughes and Michael Moran helped keep the team focused as they prepped cases to . Rio Hondo’s team is already preparing for their next tournament, Tabor-Venitsky to take place in Cerritos on February 16-18.

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NEWS

EDITORIAL:

Gregory Salcido trying to inspire, the wrong way? DANTE LOPEZ- BENNETT Copy Editor

dante.lopezbennett9611@my.riohondo.edu

With regards to inspiration, it pays to know that the manner in which it is roused, is neither right nor wrong. It simply is, and what is, according to the context of the times, will be for better or worse. Worse, is what it was for Southern California’s very own Gregory Salcido who found it in his best interest to engage the military from a classroom with a verbal tirade that was somehow meant to inspire students to aim for something “higher” than a career in the military. Higher, as if the women and men in the military were a rung in a ladder on which to be stepped upon. As if the women and men in the military were not protection personified. Turning our attentions for but a moment to Mr. Salcido’s ill-fated attempt at getting students to aspire for something, it’s clear to see where the principle of understanding is often misconstrued. People are quick to call those actively participant in intellectual discussion smart, but seldom will ever refer to them as hardworking. What is smart truly? Nothing, if not a meaningless title based upon the perceptions of others. Hard work on the other hand, is something capable of being observed and understood. It’s pain, toil, and strife. People are quick to say that an accumulation of knowledge can only be beneficial, somehow forgetting that too much of anything can be a true burden. As more money entails more problems, with every territory comes responsibility. Especially, should you be one of the very few with which we’ve entrusted the minds and ambitions of our next generation. Especially, if you’re what we call a “teacher.” With the limelight comes the glances of others looking to your conduct as something from which they can learn. As bounds are overstepped, and judgements are clouded by intellectuality, people, no matter how beloved, often lose track of what they say and begin to think of the world as something that can be neatly organized according to their personal worldview. Thus, In attempting to inspire, they fall short and stoop to simply inciting.

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

Where inspiration is mental stimulation, to incite, is to bring about anger and reckless resolutions to problems that require mature discussion. As Fear is to precaution, and understanding to due diligence, inspiration is unfortunately able to be gained in a myriad of ways.While we’re an organization from fairly diverse backgrounds who pride ourselves on freedom of speech, we recognize that people have proven that the clearance to speak on certain things is a right best reserved to everybody, but only exercised according to the precedent of your actions. So when Gregory Salcido took his extensive vocabulary and walked all around the block just to cross the street, it was the death knell to his message, as it is now perceived to be anything but inspiring. It’s offensive, immature, generalization, and false. We would contend, that what’s worse than a lie, is an unsubstantiated claim. Such statements in the public eye function as little more than ignorant and little less than lie. They reside on those dangerously fine lines in the minds of the recipient, and affect life in such a way as to make reality seem like something that can be taken advantage of. While a lie too may do this, lies don’t get presidents and heroes elected and detested, they provide the basis for reality. While anyone entrusted with the instruction of people in any discipline is entitled to their personal worldview and opinions, such things that deviate from the factual should be kept away from the podium and ears of an audience. In our humble opinions, inspiration as being achieved by means of capitalizing on fear, arousing panic, or defaming, is indolence. It’s lazy ignorance, resulting from a disregard for the sense of investigation that we as scholars should pride ourselves on. Moderation is key, as timeless messages are seldom so loud as too be hurtful or so meek as to be unheard. They make you think. And that, is the reason that Martin never screamed and the Bible was written before spoken.

Coffee and Conversation with Ian Calderon

NOAH GARCIA/EL PAISANO NEWS The Straw Tax was one of the most disruptive issues at the forum, for social and economic reasons. RODOLPHO PINEDO Reporter

rodolfo.juarezpinedo277@my.riohondo.edu

Citizens living in the 57th district flocked to the morning community coffee event hosted by Majority leader of district 57 Ian Calderon. The event was held at the Whittwood Branch Library and open to anybody wanting to discuss important local and state issues. Ian Calderon began the event by summarizing and clarifying some of the many legislation projects he has helped implement since taking re-election in 2016. He ended the event by engaging in discussions with citizens carrying concerns affecting their community. He started his speech by explaining and defending the reasons that he supported the extremely unpopular SB1 gas tax that was passed in November. Gas tax has majority of California in an uproar as gas prices have spiked, and the numerous

repairs that have to be done to California’s transportation infrastructure. Ian then jumped to a future project that can help relieve the housing crisis that has been a major factor in the increase of homelessness seen. He has ambition to create reforms in making new housing affordable in the future. His biggest project is to push a $4 billion dollar bond for the creating veteran housing. Ian, along with other california legislatures, have plans to have it on the next ballot to vote on in november. He then moved on to improve the AB 1408 bill that many believe is responsible for the rise in crime and death of Officer Keith Boyer. Ian had plans to create a new public safety bill to reform AB 1408. It was approved by legislators and was on the verge of passing until being vetoed by Governor Jerry Brown due to budgeting. The final and most controver-

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sial part of the event was his straw bill. This caused a massive uproar in the room as many citizens were upset with the advent of a fine and harsh prison punishment for restaurants giving straws to customers. Ian acknowledged that he rushed the creation of the bill but promises once he reforms it, that no one will be fined or jailed. His main intention for drafting the bill bill is to protect the environment and decrease the number of littered straws polluting the coastline. Ian then answered questions from concerned citizens. Issues ranged from what his stance on the California bullet train project to his opinion on proposition 13. He ended the event by thanking all in attendance and allowed citizens to ask him personal questions

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

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NEWS

Reducing Crime and Keeping California Safe

SABRINA TORRES Reporter

sabrina.torres2387@my.riohondo.edu

On January 4, 2018 an initiative Reducing Crime and Keeping California Safe Act was proposed by the Secretary of State Alex Padilla. This measure will fix three related issues created by recent laws that have threatened the public safety of all Californians. The act aims to reform the parole system by preventing violent felons from being granted early release as well as strengthening the oversight of post-release community supervision. Tense penalties for failure to abide by the post-release community supervision rules and regulations has also been incorporated. The Keeping California Safe Act will reform theft laws to restore accountability for serious criminals involved in theft rings and serial theft . There will be an expansion of DNA collections from those convicted of drug, theft and domestic violence related

crimes to help solve and exonerate the innocent. This act is meant to prevent murderers, rapists, child molesters and other violent criminals, “since 2014, California has had an increase in violent crime than the rest of the United States. Since 2013, violent crime in Los Angeles has increased 69.5%. Violent crime in Sacramento rose faster during the first six months of 2015 than in any of the 25 largest U.S. cities tracked by the FBI. Recent changes to parole laws have permitted the early release of dangerous criminals due to the law’s failure to define certain crimes as violent. Individuals convicted of such things as the sex trafficking of children, rape of an unconscious person, felony assault with a deadly weapon, battery on a police officer or firefighter, and felony domestic violence are now considered nonviolent offenders. This means that offenders may be released after serving only a fraction of

their sentence. The bill reads, “Violent offenders are also being allowed to remain free in our communities even when they commit new crimes and violate the terms of their post-release community supervision, like the gang member charged with the murder of Whittier Police Officer Keith Boyer.” It is important to note that this act is not intended to create additional “strike” offenses which would increase the state prison population. Between 2014 and 2016, California had the second highest increase in theft and property crimes in the United States, while most states have seen a steady decline. “According to the California Department of Justice, the value of property stolen in 2015 was $2.5 billion with an increase of 13 percent since 2014, the largest single-year increase in at least ten years.” Restoring DNA collection would be essential to putting

a halt to theft rings and serial theft due to the fact that over 450 violent crimes like murder, rape and robbery remain unsolved. Because DNA is being collected from fewer criminals, allowing the collection of more DNA samples will help identify suspects, clear the innocent, and free the mistakenly convicted. The passing of this act would mean increased state and local correctional costs likely in the tens of millions of dollars annually due to primarily related increases in

penalties for certain theft-related crimes, and the changes to the nonviolent offender release consideration process. There would also be an increase in state and local court-related costs of around a few million dollars annually to cover the processing of probation revocations and additional felony theft filings. State and local enforcement are not likely to exceed a couple of million dollars annually related to collecting and processing DNA samples from additional offenders.

Budget Deal Signed after Goverment Shut Down JOSE AHUMADA Reporter

jose.ahumada7466@my.riohondo.edu

President Donald Trump signed a massive bipartisan budget deal last Friday morning that will lift spending caps and keep the doors open at federal agencies ending a brief government shut down, giving Republicans a legislative victory. This budget deal is expected to push budget deficits past $1 trillion annually with military and

domestic programs. The White house voted with 240-186 with 73 Democrats and 167 Republicans in favor. This was the shortest shut down since the 1970s according to the Congressional Research Service. About the bill, Trump tweeted, “Just signed Bill. Our Military will now be stronger than ever before. We love and need our Military and gave them everything — and more. First time this has happened

in a long time. Also means JOBS, JOBS, JOBS!” “Ultimately, neither side got everything it wanted in this agreement, but we reached a bipartisan compromise that puts the safety and well-being of the American people first,” House Speaker Paul Ryan said. This deal will increase military and non-defense spending by $300 billion for the next two years as well as add $70 billion dollars in disaster relief. The deal will lift budget caps as well as

prevent spending cuts under sequestration from taking place. It will extend the Children’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, for another ten years instead of six. Both Republican and Democratic parties in the White House have voiced their disapproval and opposition to this deal. While this plan is being hailed as a breakthrough in bipartisanship by both Senate leaders McConnell and Schumer, representative Nancy Pelosi of California, took to the House on Wednesday in opposition to this deal, saying that it is something she could not support, delivering a record-breaking speech on how it does nothing to help protect young immigrants who were brought to the country illegally as children. Pelosi demanded that House Speaker Paul Ryan address the Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals program, or DACA. During her speech, she publicly read letters from

An Uncertain Future continued from page 1

tion and emotion that only seemed to be supported with tears from those who felt unsure of their future and that of the DACA program. And although emotion was stirred within the group, at the end, smiles and a little hope was in-

fused due to some staff members expressing their supportiveness for DACA and giving a little advice as well. Being an ally or a friend to those who are undocumented will help keep their spirits alive in a time when it seems an entire

country is led by a president who sees immigrants as a threat rather than anything else. Knowing resources that are at your disposal will help keep dreamers informed and help get in touch with those who have a louder voice than those who feel

too weak or afraid to speak out on their own. Sharing your experience, either good or bad, will help others understand the frustration that comes with being seen as a burden to society. A passed law that guaran-

DACA recipients. Although the President has agreed to the deal, this negates many of his demands to reorder government with deep cuts to programs like environmental protection, foreign aid and health research that were to offset increases in military spending. The tax deficit is expected to rise because of the Trump administration’s tax cuts approved by Congress in December. About the deal, Jason Pye, the vice president of legislative affairs for FreedomWorks, said the deal is not only “fiscally irresponsible, it’s an abomination. No one on Congress who claims that they’re a deficit hawk or a fiscal conservative can justifiably vote for this deal,” he said. The debt ceiling is expected to climb even higher until March 2019 because of the deal, according to White House officials.

tees the placement of dreamers in this country can only ensure a strong civilization that thrives from having different cultures and ethnicities living together. Continue to do your part and go out there and vote to help keep the dream alive.

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COMMUNITY

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

Pico Rivera School Board Meeting continued from page 1

PETE ESCOBAR/CONTRIBUTOR Veteran Robert Mejia was one of dozens who spoke to the Pico Rivera school board about their frustrations with Gregory Salcido Tuesday, Feb. 6, at El Rancho High School.

that he advised the board members from responding to comments made by the public or passing judgment about Salcido’s remarks to prevent a conflict of interest. “As much as the emotions are going by, I cannot emphasize enough how important it is for the board not to make a judgement about what the facts are and prejudge the matter,” said Garcia. Despite Garcia’s legal concerns, the board members condemned Salcido’s remarks and bullying of Victor Quiñonez, the student who recorded Salcido’s anti-military rank inspired by Quiñonez’s U.S Marine Corps sweater. They each made a commitment to do what’s

best for the students of Pico Rivera’s community, with board member Lorraine M. De La O saying “Let it be said now, by me, that if a teacher cannot provide the best education, they must go.” Condemnation and demands of termination began with Richard Betancourt, a member of the community, who cited district policy against improper behavior as grounds for Salcido’s termination. “The law cannot control how Salcido thinks but the law can control how he acts in the classroom,” said Betancourt, a member of the community. Speakers that followed Betancourt shared his views

that Salcido should be fired, and that anything short of that would be met with public disapproval. “To allow him back into the classroom would be to endorse his comments,” said Robert Mejia, a veteran and member of the community. Several students spoke in support of Quiñonez, who has reportedly been bullied since he released the video of Salcido’s rant. They further accused Salcido of religious discrimination, with one stating that she filed a complaint with the district. “This has been going on for years…I to have been attacked by Mr. Salcido for being a Christian,” said

Claudia Plascencia, a student of Salcido in 2010. “I would wear shirts that had Christian messages on them and he would single me out in front of the entire class. I wrote up a complaint, if you look up his file, which I’m sure you guys [the school board] have, my name is there. “ The community members that showed up to meeting made their demands clear, fire Salcido or suffer the consequences come election time. Yet, that decision does not seem to be an imminent one. As noted by Garcia, the investigation and the boards verdict will take time. “This is what makes us Americans, a real commitment to due process. When-

ever anybody is accused of anything…we still have to go through a process of investigation,” said Garcia. “The individual involved is entitled to a presumption of innocence. They’re entitled to due process.” Salcido’s comments have angered many. At tonight’s city council meeting, officals may ask for Salcido’s resignation. He is currently on paid administrative lead and has declined to comment on this issue. The city council meets tonight, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m. at 6615 Passons Blvd. Pico Rivera, CA. There’ll also be a live broadcast on the city’s channell, CTV3.

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

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COMMUNITY

Weekly Weather Forecast: February 13-19 Tuesday 13

Wednesday

Thursday 15

Friday 16

Saturday 17

Sunday 18

Monday 19

63 48

64 45

70 44

76 46

78 48

74 52

67 50

Weekly Horoscope February 13-19

Every thing is going to be alright because anything that you are going to face: you can handle it easier than you thought you could.

This is a great month for gift giving because everyone you plan to get things for will get them

Be wary of old friens trying to be in your life because htye will drag you backwards

This month may have started off rocky and perhaps unstable, but don’t worry because at the end, great things are going to happen for you

Don’t try to go it alone this season because you are going to need people in your corner

dance like nobodies watching because you are going to have alot of quiet personal development

Be on guard! people there are people going to be trying to take advantage of you. stay clear and focus on self growth, your going to need it

Emotions are going to be all over the place so make sure to go with you gut and not be afraid to tell it like it is, because your opinion matters.

This month has got you on a roll. there are going to be a constant barrage of oppertunities and you should try to take advantage of every one.

This is a social month for you, where you’re going to be able to make alot of new friends.

Dont worry about other and worry about yourself. mjor personal growth is comming for you

The bravery that you are known for may fail you this month so surround yourself with as many people as possible.

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LIFESTYLES

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

An Exclusive Night In the City of Angels CESAR GONZALEZ Reporter

cesar.gonzalez6118@my.riohondo.edu

Los Angeles, the city plenty of opportunities, from luxurious dinners spots to different tourist attractions, a place where people find different ways to have fun. For others, the nightlife on weekends means partying it up at their favorite music nightclub, most people look towards these types of events every weekend. One party-promoting event in Los Angeles’s underground scene is called “Acid Camp.” They kicked off their first party of 2018 on February 3rd, where doors opened to the public at 11:00PM. There’s a few ways to gain access to entry to their events, one way is purchasing your tickets online or paying your entrance fee at the door of the event. On the same day of the event the address is sent out via email to all those who purchased their online tickets. It is only a matter of time before the hidden location is filled with Acid Camp residents.

Acid Camp was first founded and put together by a few friends who all shared the same vision and dream, to have a place where other fellow party-goers can rejoice, come together and enjoy a night dancing to their favorite funky techno-house beat. Acid Camp also focuses not only on the music, but fuses their parties with other aspects of art and culture as well. Aside from the location being a secret, the art installments are always different. Not to mention the delicious food and their open bar at affordable nightlife prices. Acid Camp also strives to bring their followers the most up to date music artists/ disc jockeys who sometimes are not even from the United States. First time appearances from guests that are from Detroit, Michigan, or even Berlin, Germany. Acid Camp residents DJ’s are always on scene, but it really is all about their out of country acts that the crowd looks forward to see. The underground party

scene always attracts different walks of life, from personalities, hobbies, interests, and even those successful in their careers. It can vary from local Los Angeles area attendees to out of state and sometimes out of country. Acid Camp really is for everyone who appreciates the nightlife underground scene. I was able to go on the scene and pull a few people aside to ask them about the underground nightlife party scene. Amongst the some of the people there, Destiny Castro from Glendora, CA said, “Sometimes my job can be stressful and I need a little motivation to get to the end of my week to let loose, you know, so I can get some ‘me-time’.” Her favorite thing about the nightlife scene in L.A. is definitely the music, especially when she needs to get away from the stressors of her job as a one on one aide for kids with autism. Castro, when asked what her favorite type of music is, told me that it is classic rock. Her favorite band being Led Zeppelin. Another local party-go-

er, from L.A., by the name of Christina, had this to say, “These types of events are fun, they give you a chance to be yourself, to dance and be free, just feel good, and get good vibes from other people and share a community.” She also mentioned that it is not only about the music but also about the art and culture of these nightlife events that take place where those with the same interests can come together. She also said, “I enjoy the underground scene because it is always an adventure to get there.” She was very specific about her favorite genre of music which she said is Detroit techno. As a speech language pathologist, she can agree that after a long stressful, productive, and eventful week it pays off when you’re able to attend your favorite party scene. I was able to interview one more fellow party-goer by the name of Abraham De Jesus Vazquez, who has been participating in these types of events for about 10 years. He does general labor for

a construction company and has lived in the L.A. area for 8 years. “Getting to see artists that I usually don’t get to see, unlike your typical cliché concerts, this kind plays more of my music taste.” said Vazquez. He claimed that house music was in fact his favorite genre of music.Vazquez also said, “Music, as cliché as it sounds is a universal language bro, dancing parties bring people...together!” Acid Camp continues to bring what the people crave when it comes to the nightlife party scene. They still plan to coordinate and prep for future events to come this year. One of the best things about this particular party posse, is that their music from resident Djs and even Dj sets from all parties could be found on their Soundclould account. If one did not have the opportunity to be there in person, fear not, for they could still tune in weekly on their own time and listen to the music from the comfort of their own homes.

Ten Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu JOSE AHUMADA Reporter

jose.ahumada7466@my.riohondo.edu

Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is a modern martial art, combat sport, and self-defense system with the focus being grappling and ground fighting. The main objective in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is to take the fight to the ground and finish an opponent with chokeholds and joint locks, thus forcing the opponent to “tap out” and submit or suffer severe consequences such as being choked and put to sleep or having a broken limb from a joint lock. Jujitsu holds the concept that through proper technique, leverage, and mechanical advantage, a smaller and weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a bigger and stronger assailant. You will notice that a lot of people who train in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu have gained many benefits whether it is physically or mentally. Below are some of the benefits that people will train when experiencing Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. 1. Weight loss- One of the things that Brazilian Jiu-jitsu can help with is shedding those extra pounds and getting in shape because it is an intense full body workout that incorporates every muscle in the body when performing the war-

mups, drills, techniques, and sparring (commonly referred to as rolling) in Jujitsu. Your strength, flexibility, muscular endurance and cardiovascular conditioning will also improve. 2.Self-defenseSelf-defense is a primary reason people get into martial arts. Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is very practical for self-defense because it can used by anyone no matter how weak or strong they are since it focuses on the concept of relying on technique and leverage rather than brute strength and physical attributes in order to subdue an opponent by taking the fight to the ground where the use of kinetic energy is minimized. Once an opponent is taken down to the ground, it is much easier to control and immobilize them, and finish a fight with a choke or joint lock. It is also practical in terms of self-defense because it teaches you how to fight off your back should you get taken down to the ground. 3.Stress reliever- Life can be stressful sometimes, especially for those who go to school and/or work a full time, even part time job. The demand of having to meet deadlines for homework, essays, term papers, or dealing with customers or new projects at work can build up mentally inside a person and cause a lot of stress. When it comes to having a long and stressful day, training Jujitsu

can help with alleviating stress because of the workout and learning new techniques and just striving to improve little by little. 4.CamaraderieWhile training Jiu-jitsu, you will meet people from all walks of life on the mats whether it is your regular John Doe who goes ILLUSTRATION OLIVIA VENEGAS/EL PAISANO NEWS to school, fast Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has more benefits than just a combat sport, it can lead to a healthy lifefood workers, style too. and more technical. This can cutting weight, and strive to lawyers, doceasily translate to life as it is improve. tors, teachers, parents, and a good way to check your ego 9.Patience- Jiu-jitsu will just about anybody. and stay humble. teach you to be patient with 5.Increased confidence 7.Healthy lifestylethe process and overall just Knowing that you can defend Jiu-jitsu is physically deunderstand that developing yourself and being in shape manding so it is important skills take a long time. Earnis a good way to increase to take care of your body. ing a black belt in Jiu-jitsu self-confidence. Whether that includes getalso takes up so much time 6.Humility- When it ting a full nights sleep, eating and dedication that patience comes to Jiu-jitsu, there is a is one of the keys to masterlot to learn whether it is take- healthier, Jiu-jitsu will help discipline you to better take ing not only Brazilian Jiu-jitdowns, positional escapes, care of yourself. su but also other endeavors sweeps, submissions, etc. 8.Competition- For those that we deal with in life. The learning is never going looking to challenge them 10.Challenges- Brazilian to stop even when getting to selves and love competing, Jiu-jitsu is never going to get the highest level in Jiu-jitsu. tournaments are a good way easier progressing through The art is always constantly the ranks. It helps you chalevolving with new techniques to test your skills and get out of your comfort zone. lenge yourself and makes you and transitions and it takes Training for competition will realize you can never run years to master. No matter away from things and that how much progress you make discipline you also be consistent with training, condition- you always have something there will always be someing, watching your diet and that you need to learn. one better, faster, stronger,

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

LIFESTYLES

Tea at

TIFFANY’S You are cordially invited to join us for a traditional tea of sandwiches, scones, desserts, and fruits. Enjoy Breakfast at Tiffany’s playing in the background as you test your knowledge of the film and of Audrey Hepburn.

Whittwood Branch Library Thursday, March 8 • 6:30 Tickets: $30 (WPLF members $25) may be purchased at Central Library or Whittwood Branch. Tickets are very limited. 562.567.9922 Tea at Tiffany’s is presented by Whittier Public Library and sponsored by the WPL Foundation. It will be catered by the Four Seasons Tea Room, now in its 21st year of service to Southlanders & British Royals alike.

Second Chances Walk-in Clinic Record Change Assistance

Date: Monday, March 5, 2018 Time: 6:30 P.M. - 8:30 P.M. Location: Rio Hondo College Board Room, 1st floor, Admin Bldg. 3600 Workman Mill Road Whittier, CA, 90601-1616 Free parking in all designated student parking lots. No appointment necessary. First come - First served. If your criminal record is a barrier to opportunities, please attend this clinic to consider your options. Legal professional volunteers from the Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office will print out LA County Court documents and review misdemeanor and non-violent felony cases for possible expungement. Contact Information Cecilia Rocha Tel 562-463-7066 E-Mail: Crocha@riohondo.edu

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OPINION

Speak Out: What are your new semester resolutions?

El Paisano Newspaper Editor-in-Chief

RAMON ALVARADO

News/Community Editor NOAH GARCIA

Opinion/Lifestyles Editor OLIVIA VENEGAS

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

PHOTOS BY JAMES SPENCER/EL PAISANO

ANAMARIA APARICIO Reporter

anamaria.aparicio8532@my.riohondo.edu

Sci.&Tech/A&E Editor JAKE LAURELL

Photo Editor

JAMES SPENCER

Copy Editors

SARA HARDING DANTÉ LÓPEZ-BENNETT

Advisor

WENDY CARRERA

Reporters

JOSE AHUMADA BRAYAN ALTAMIRANO ANAMARIA APARICIO JAIME APARICIO DANIEL CAMPOS IGNACIO CERVANTES DARRIN CURTIS ARLINE CHAIDEZ GILBERTO ESPANA MADELYN GASTELUM CESAR GONZALEZ LUIS GUTIERREZ MALENA LOPEZ JONATHAN MEZA ANTHONY MORENO CYNTHIA OLVERA RUDY JUAREZ PINEDO SABRINA TORRES

3600 Workman Mill Rd. Whittier CA 90601 (562) 692-0921 EXT. 3345

Carolina Marquez:

Jacob Garcia:

Abran Ramirez:

Last semester I was working full time and it was getting harder for me so I stopped working. This semester I want to put all my attention on being full time.

I’ll definitely change the way I take my notes. I’m trying to do something productive in between classes like where I have a huge gap.

Trying to transfer by this year for now. I mean I was supposed to transfer last year, but I’m only going part time right now because I’m working full time

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

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OPINION

Black History Month DANTE LOPEZ-BENNETT Copy Editor

dante.lopezbennett9611@my.riohondo.edu

It’s ironic, that those who choose to use disrespectful views have the audacity to rebuke the beauty of sentiments that we have proven to be self evident and true, before we all inevitably fade to- Black. I often sense you all, marching and moving in vehemence, looking to cling to what shades of grey we are afforded in this often black and white world. Where we’ve seen calamity at the hands of police who abuse their authority, and Institutions that classify man by hue somehow forgetting that we are only ever despite our shades- hu man. Here we are now: entertainers, leaders, and creators of a world vision that is as confounding as it is astonishing. Truthfully, I understand the confusion with regards to how America has chosen to view the ones that built and nourished it. And truthfully, I can’t imagine that we’d appear as anything less than

supernatural, somefor we were at how, once once so alienthey’re ated as to be gone, and able to be E. T. I think in the eyes of a it’s about mass media we time we now own. change And so, that. when this With year’s Black regards to History Month the many is underway, overdue and the theme moverevolves ments around obsernow vance of “Afriunderway can Americans this year, In Times of America War,” let’s not has absoact like we lutely bashave not coltardized lectively been women defying the of color insurmountILLUSTRATION OLIVIA VENEGAS/EL PAISANO NEWSfor some able for some Black history is beyond a month, it is American history. time, and time now. has absoings. And let’s not act like perlutely no future and business At times I look around and haps it’s not about past time existing should it not recogobserve the strange fruits of for things to have come so nize what real lies, standards our labor indeed, confusion far in a fight that has played of beauty, and false expectaand forgetfulness. Stranger out too long for us to accept tions it has perpetuated for in media res, who like the anything less than complete so long. dreamers in America persistand total respect. We must admit, that ed in the midst of animosity. But before we move forBlack History Month is There’s a particular group ward, we must take heed of futile so long as it remains a of people that are only missed the present time’s shortcomnarrative solely choosing to

chronicle “his” story, because surely, there are generations of black women who have laid the foundation for the very days that are in our lives. I find it only necessary that this becomes common knowledge, and as the celebratory spirit of our times is underway, that it is regarded with the utmost respect and never forgotten. Like how at the root of every complex problem lies a radical, so too, do the most vehement of activists rest in a shallow slumber anticipating awakening to a world as peaceful as Martin on the same night he had a dream. Where we were once oppressed by denouncers, times have surely changed. Now, it is us, women and men, who united, should maneuver with a march as maintained as time’s stereotypes and sacrifice as sincere as love, no longer looking for underground railroads to voice what trains of thought we have. As revolutions should not be televised and unknown forces get to moving some known objects, be nothing if not blatantly black and proud.

Black Women’s History Month

OLIVIA VENEGAS Opinion/Lifestyles Editor

olivia.venegas4091@my.riohondo.edu

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X, and Frederick Douglass are just some of the black men in history that have stood out against society on the matters of slavery and civil rights. Often though, there are those who have also done so but are not acknowledged, hidden figures. It is not to say that the efforts of these men were not valuable but we must no forget the efforts and the struggles of their sisters. Women of color have fought to alter a society that was against them and their brothers since the time of slavery. These women of color are not taught in public education. School children do not the struggles of these women that they so greatly benefit from. Women of color have been in feminist movements since the first wave that brought Susan B. Anthony and the nineteenth amendment. In oppose to the “Susan B. Anthony Feminism”, black women of the time were demanding justice for hate crimes, rights for the freed slaves, and rights as black women. Sojourner Truth, a for-

mer slave that constructed speeches and speeches demanding for the understanding her own experience in society as a person of color and as a woman. These speeches are the first recording of the idea of intersectionality. Intersectionality is the concept that social characteristics of gender, race, class, sexual orientation, and disability are all interconnected, not separate issues. This understanding led to Truth’s “Aint I a Woman” speech which challenged society’s views of black women in comparison to white women. As written in Angela Y. Davis’ book Freedom is a Constant Struggle, “Individual black American women are positioned differently within social structures and hierarchies of social class, sexual orientation, education, region, age, and religion.” These words by Davis would not be possible without Sojourner Truth’s revolutionary speech. Violent hate crimes against black men and women movements was first established by Ida B. Wells. She did so by traveling to Europe for support for the first anti-lynching movements. Wells determination also established some of the first anti-rape movements which are issues women and men are still challenging today.

Josephine St. Pierre Rofin led the discussion of the “creation of a national organization of black women’s clubs” which led to the establishment of the National Association of Colored Women’s Club. At a time where racism within mainstream feminism was unheard of, Josephine St. Pierre Rofin led a group of black women to create an organization whose ideals were not tainted by racism. Their all-inclusive motto was “Lift as we climb”. Maria Stewart, “she demanded education for black women at a time when schooling for women was controversial.” These demands for education for black women later established public schools for poor white children. Though Stewart’s movements demanded public schooling, black boys and girls did not immediately benefit from their efforts. “The boycott would not have been successful without their [black domestic workers] refusals, without their critical refusals.” Angela Y. Davis elaborates on black female domestic workers during the time of the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Working black women in the 1950’s had the same jobs as their slave ancestors, domestic workers. And much

ILLUSTRATION OLIVIA VENEGAS/EL PAISANO NEWS This February, let us recgonize the women of color that have moved mountains.

like their slave ancestors, they too refused. These women were the majority of those who rode the Montgomery buses to and from their domestic jobs. Without their first refusals, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr might not have became the prominent icon. The efforts of black men alone cannot represent the efforts of people of color, and white women cannot only represent the efforts of all women.

The voices and stories of women color must be shared and taught in order to understand the strength in these women and all women of color everywhere. Without their refusals and their voice, we would not have the resistance we have today. Today’s resistance originate upon the beliefs of the women of color before us.

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El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

SPORTS

GRAPHIC BY RAMON ALVARADO/EL PAISANO NEWS

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

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SPORTS

ELAC’s Full-Court Press Fuels Victory over Rio Ladies RAMON ALVARADO Editor-in-Chief

ramon.alvarado7328@my.riohondo.edu

East Los Angeles College dominated the Lady Roadrunners in the gym at Rio Hondo Friday night. The ELAC full-court pressure helped the Huskies escape The Hondo with the 81-58, 23-point victory. The Lady Roadrunners offense looked frustrated with themselves trying to break the Huskies’ full-court press. ELAC’s aggressive defense allowed them to pick off passes and translate it to quick points on offense. Rio was in the game heading into the fourth, only trailing by 7 at 57-50. The Huskies’ revved up their defense in the final period, though, and were able to distance themselves from the Rio Ladies. ELAC only gave up eight points to Rio in the fourth quarter, and just two points in the final five minutes of play. The score was 65-56 before Rio forward Destinee Garr fouled out for the second game in a row. The Huskies went on a 16-to-2 run to end the game after Garr exited. “I think Destinee fouling out is a combination of [too

RAMON ALVARADO/EL PAISANO NEWS

ELAC’s defensive tenacity made it difficult for the Lady Roadrunners to maintain control of the ball Friday Night.

much aggressiveness and calls not going her way],” Rio Hondo coach, Rene Herrera said following the loss. “She has to learn to position herself better defensively so she doesn’t get bad calls. She has to learn to adjust to what the refs are calling and that will prevent her from fouling

out.” Garr has played a lot the point guard position a lot for Rio the last few games. Today she had one of her better performances passing the ball despite the Huskies’ pressure. “ELAC’s defensive pressure is tough to simulate. Not having a point guard due to

injury makes it difficult for us to bring the ball up the court,” Coach Herrera explained. “Destinee has done a fabulous job bringing up the ball since we switched her to the point guard position. She had 10 assists today and when she fouled out ELAC, was able to take advantage, which was

why the score was a lot worse than what it should have been, had she not fouled out.” Jaelynn Curley (13), Monica Garcia (14) and Domonique Godbolt (18) all finished with double-digits in points for the Huskies. Forwards Maggie Lamas and Emily Mercedes led Rio Hondo’s offense. Lamas finished with 18 points while Mercedes tallied 15 of her own in the loss. The 23-point defeat was the Lady Roadrunners second home loss of the week, and tenth loss in a row. The Lady Roadrunners have struggled but the long season is almost coming to an end. “We are down to the final week and our game plan won’t change,” Coach Herrera said. “I tell our girls to compete and give 100% on both ends of the floor. We have made great progress but need to continue to get better. We need to execute on offense and play great defense to give ourselves a chance to compete in the final week of basketball play.” Rio plays the final games on their schedule this Wednesday and Friday night. The last game of the Rio Ladies’ season will be at home against Pasadena City College February 16 at 5 p.m.

Roadrunners Battle Through Tough Loss to ELAC IGNACIO CERVANTES Reporter

ignacio.cervantes8813@my.riohondo.edu

The Rio Hondo Men’s basketball team battled through a 63-93 loss against no. 11 ranked East Los Angeles College Friday night at the Rio Gymnasium. After defeating Chaffey College on Wednesday, Coach Steve Johnson’s men failed to cap off the start of a great week when ELAC seized control of the South Coast Conference matchup early and never let go of a comfortable lead. The game was decided underneath the rim where the Huskies had 20 offensive rebounds compared to Rio’s 10 on the defensive end. The Roadrunners inability to rebound and capitalize on ELAC misses paved the way

BRAYAN ALTAMIRANO/EL PAISANO NEWS

Things got out of hand for the Roadrunners in Friday night’s matchup against the Huskies. They trailed by 29 at the half.

for simple ELAC lay-ups and put-backs throughout. It was a hostile affair involving five technical fouls

and lots of contact from the off as the Huskies used their size and strength to get ahead on the scoreboard.

Once trailing, Rio could do nothing but absorb the relentless pressure put upon them by the now 7-1 Huskies

who sit atop first place in conference and rank sixth in the Southern California Region. Down 27-56 at halftime, the Roadrunners, 3-5 and in all gold uniforms, came out of the locker room for the second half determined to fight until the end despite the 29-point deficit. The men showed resilience and character to close the game competing despite the unevenness of the result. Sophomore guard Kenyatta Louder led the team in minutes and points with 40 and 26, respectively. On Wednesday, the Roadrunners look to bounce back as they visit Mt. San Antonio College before closing off conference play by hosting Pasadena City College Friday with both games tipping off at 7 p.m.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

El Paisano Tuesday February 13, 2018

Tuesday February 13 William Lane: Then and Now........................................................... Rio Hondo Art Gallery.....................................................................................9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Picking a Major................................................................................. Rio Hondo........................................................................................................10 a.m. - 11 a.m. Club Rush......................................................................................... Mid Quad.........................................................................................................11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Time Management........................................................................... LR 101..............................................................................................................1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Women’s Tennis vs San Diego Mesa................................................. Rio Hondo........................................................................................................2 p.m. Softball vs Compton......................................................................... Rio Hondo........................................................................................................3 p.m.

Wednesday February 14 William Lane: Then and Now........................................................... Rio Hondo Art Gallery.....................................................................................9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Club Rush......................................................................................... Mid Quad.........................................................................................................11 a.m. - 2 p.m. I’ve Picked a Major, Now What?....................................................... Rio Hondo........................................................................................................2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Syllabi Analysis................................................................................ LR 101..............................................................................................................5 p.m. - 6 p.m. Women’s Basketball vs Mt. SAC....................................................... Mt. SAC............................................................................................................5 p.m. Men’s Basketball vs Mt Sac............................................................... Mt. SAC............................................................................................................7 p.m.

Thursday February 15 William Lane: Then and Now........................................................... Rio Hondo Art Gallery.....................................................................................9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ballin’ on a Budget........................................................................... LR 101..............................................................................................................1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Get LinkedIn!................................................................................... Rio Hondo........................................................................................................2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Women’s Tennis vs Mt. San Jacinto.................................................. Rio Hondo........................................................................................................2 p.m. Baseball vs Merced........................................................................... Rio Hondo........................................................................................................2 p.m. Softball vs Cerritos........................................................................... Cerritos............................................................................................................3 p.m SDA Informational Session.............................................................. Rio Hondo........................................................................................................4 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Friday February 16 Women’s Beach Volleyball................................................................ Ventura............................................................................................................9 a.m. Women’s Beach Volleyball................................................................ Ventura............................................................................................................9 a.m. Women’s Basketball vs Pasadena City.............................................. Rio Hondo........................................................................................................5 p.m. Men’s Basketball vs Pasadena City................................................... Rio Hondo........................................................................................................7 p.m.

Saturday February 17

--Monday February 18 William Lane: Then and Now........................................................... Rio Hondo Art Gallery.....................................................................................9 a.m. - 3 p.m.