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Vol. 71 Issue 4

www.elpaisanomedia.com

Wednesday Nov. 5, 2025

Educational Justice Programs Providing Inspiration and Support to Black Scholars and Rise Scholars

Photo by: Donna Walsh Student Success Coaches for both the Rise Scholars and Black Scholars programs, Rene Sanchez and Malika Castaneda welcome and support Rio Hondo College students at the Educational Justice Office in LR130.

By: Donna Walsh

he bright, window-lined office of the Educational Justice Program is home to the Rise Scholars Program, the Black Scholars Program, and the Black Student Union (BSU). Located in the Learning Resource Center’s room LR130, it is a focal point for outreach, support, and community for Rio Hondo College (RHC) students. The shared space feels like a delightful mix of office and lounge. Students work, chat, and socialize as they use a wall of computers, sit in the two couch areas, or seek help from staff members. Students can access a wide range of support, including academic and program guidance, educational materials, school supplies, and snacks. The Educational Justice Program encompasses three of RHC’s scholar programs: Rise Scholars, Black Scholars, and Pride Scholars, a program based in the Pride Center in A119 of the Administration building, that supports LGBTQIA+ students. Rise Scholars The Rise Scholars program serves formerly incarcerated students who are directly impacted by the justicecarceral system, helping them navigate the higher education system.

Black Scholars The Black Scholars program empowers Black students by providing a community that fosters academic and professional excellence, helping to make their college journey successful. Black Student Union The BSU engages Black and African American students and allies by stimulating their intellectual, political, cultural, and social growth. Through events, the BSU also seeks to help students celebrate Black culture, history, and lifestyles, regardless of racial

come in that are not in the programs but still come to hang out,” said Sanchez. “They want to just enjoy the space because their friends are here. They want to participate in events that we collaborate with, and it’s a really good community.” Sophomore Rise Scholar, David Mendizabal, drops in two to three times a week and considers the room a home base when he’s on campus. He praised the program staff. “They’re incredible. They’re patient with all of us; their warmth and their welcoming

Angeles. Eligible participants received free legal assistance with clearing their criminal records. Support Groups The Black Scholars Program’s most recent activity was an HBCU Caravan to Los Angeles Trade Tech College’s transfer fair. HBCU stands for historically Black colleges and universities. The all-day event offered a mixer, transfer-focused student workshops, a chance to meet representatives of HBCUs, and on-site admission opportunities. In conjunction with Student Health and Psychological Services, the Educational Justice Programs also host monthly mental health support groups, “Together We Rise” for Rise Scholars and “Black Minds Matter” for Black Scholars. Student Success Coach, Malika Castaneda, an alumnus of RHC and a former Rise Scholar, knows firsthand the difference that a mentor and

a well-designed program can make in one’s life. “I tell my students that resilience is strength and everything is mind over matter,” said Castaneda. “I really wish that when I was younger, I could have run into positive people who had a vision. The vision is like a foundation that they’re trying to build for their future. Then I wouldn’t have been so lossminded.” Castaneda suggested that people often make poor decisions because they lack vision and experience. She and Sanchez are proud to be a part of the Rise and Black Scholars programs and to share their vision and experiences. More Information For more information about programs offered through the Educational Justice Program office, visit LR130, or call (562) 692-0921 for Black Scholars, or (562) 463-7701 for Rise Scholars.

“I tell my students that resilience is strength and everything is mind over matter.”

- Malika Castaneda

background. Encouraging students is the center’s goal, suggested Rise and Black Scholars Student Success Coach Rene Sanchez. An RHC alumnus, Sanchez has an illuminated sign over his desk that reads “Don’t quit,” with “Do” and “it” highlighted in yellow. He suggests that inspiring students and fostering community are two areas where the Educational Justice Programs excel. “We have students that

are what’s kept me coming back to school,” said Mendizabal. “I’m very close to transferring out to Cal State now. It’s all thanks to this program that I’ve been able to accomplish so much.” RHC scholar programs often provide basic needs vouchers and host events. Earlier in October, Rise Scholars cohosted an expungement clinic pre-screening on campus in collaboration with the Whittier Pride Center and the Legal Aid Foundation of Los

Photo by: Donna Walsh Student Success Coach Rene Sanchez, Rise Scholars David Mendizabal and Angie Hernandez recognize the Educational Justice Office’s lounge and computer area as a home away from home on campus.

NEWS

Haunted Communications Brings Halloween Spirit to Rio Hondo College

By: Marissa Chavez

Professor Grant cooks hotdogs at the forensics speech and debate’s Haunted Communication event located at the upper quad on Thursday Oct. 30. The event was held to encourage students to see first hand how communication is important and how we can develop healthy communication skills.

ith Halloween just passing, what better way to celebrate the holiday than attending Haunted Communications hosted by the forestics team at Rio Hondo. On Thursday, Oct. 30 our forensics speech and debate team had their annual haunted communication carnival. The event, lead by Professor Grant, was filled with hotdogs, sodas, popcorn, and debates. Rio Hondo students had the opportunity to pick any topic and debate against their

fellow peers. This experience was a great way for students to see first hand how our forensics team debates. “This is an attempt to encourage students to understand that communications is an important skill, and as we live in a time where we see bad examples of it, we’d like promote a healthier and better environment where students are able to speak on issues and topics that are relevant to them. Hence, this event, which is a public speaking event open to all

students, where we try to encourage students to either listen to healthy conversation about fun topics, or maybe even try their hand at one” Professor Grant says. The forensics team has gone to two competitions so far, they also have been invited to compete in Athens, Greece in the spring time of March. “We seem to be able to be contenders once again, and we’re looking forward to having a fantastic season, a lot of the students are excited about being able to, well try

their speaking and persuasion and debating skills on an international level.” Grant says. This event was not only about debating on certain topics but to inform students that what they say has meaning and they have authority in their voices when they speak. “The power of their voice should not be limited by what discipline did they choose and what they have to say is important, and if they need help to improve it, regardless of whether they decide to join our

Photo by: Marissa Chavez

competitive squad, we will be happy to help them express themselves better, myself and all our other coaches have a motto, it is not what we want you to say, but rather, we want to help you say whatever it is you want to say better” Grant says. If you are interested in joining the speech and debate team for next semester, join SPCH 110 and join the team, for a chance to have your voice be heard and your communication skills to a higher level.

Back to the Future Day at Rio Hondo College

By: Brooklyn Hunter

n Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Associated Students hosted Back to the Future Day at Rio Hondo College in the Student Union. Back to the Future Day was hosted to celebrate the 40th anniversary production of the Back to the Future movie. Back to the Future Part II from the Back to the Future movie trilogy was shown at the event. In this movie, the main characters time-travel from the year 1985 to the date of Oct. 21, 2015. In the movie, that was 30 years in the future. When the movie event took place on Oct 21, 2025, that day marked the 10th Anniversary of the day that the main characters timetraveled to. Thus, Back to the Future Part II was chosen. The year of 2025 is also the 40th anniversary of the original Back to the Future movie. Students, staff, and faculty watched the movie, either in its entirety or part of it. Popcorn was served at the event, and some participants came for the popcorn. Some participants mentioned they

Photo by: Jordan Lopez

Photo By: Brooklyn Hunter

Students gather at the Rio Hondo College Student Union for a Back to the Future Part II movie night on Oct. 21 at 12 p.m. The event, held in honor of the film’s 40th anniversary and “Back to the Future Day,” featured free popcorn, snacks, and drinks.

Students watch the scene in Back to the Future II, when the main characters first arrive on the date of Oct. 21, 2015.

have seen the trilogy, some have only seen the first movie of the trilogy, and others have never seen any of the 3 movies in the trilogy. Rio Hondo College Student Rachel Garcia, mentioned that she “really enjoyed” the Back to the Future Movie Day and said “I thought it gave everyone, like a little bit more of a sense of community. I thought it was a good turnout.” Garcia

care, but more like a mental health relax.” The Back to the Future trilogy (especially the 1st movie), has local historical significance, as there were scenes recorded in locations in Whittier, CA. The scenes of Back to the Future’s fictional high school, Hill Valley High School, were recorded at Whittier High School. Whittier High School is located in Uptown Whittier, in Whittier,

has never seen Back to the Future Part II and explained, “I really like the first movie, but the second movie, it was even better, and they had free popcorn.” Garcia mentioned that she recommends having a movie event like that again. “I would highly recommend that, I felt like it was a nice little break during our midterms. So I felt like it was more like, I guess you’d say, like not self

CA. There were also scenes recorded in one of Whittier’s neighboring cities, the City of Industry, CA. The scenes of the fictional mall, Twin Pines Mall, were recorded in Puente Hills Mall, located in the City of Industry, CA. The Twin Pines Mall sign can still be seen at the La Puente Hills Mall to this day.

Spirits Soar at Rio Dia de los Muertos: a Hondo’s Celebration of Life Boo Bash R Celebration

NEWS

By: Eric Gonzales

io Hondo College is getting into the Dia De Los Muertos spirit, but first, here’s an overview. Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is a vibrant, multi-day Mexican holiday celebrated on November the 1st and 2nd. Far from being a somber or frightening occasion, it is a joyful commemoration where families welcome the souls of their departed loved ones back to the land of the living for a temporary, intimate reunion. This beautiful tradition is rooted in a blend of Mesoamerican Indigenous rituals, dating back thousands of years to cultures like the Aztecs, who viewed death as a continuation of life. The holiday emphasizes making peace with mortality and honoring the enduring presence of the dead. The focal point of the celebration is the ofrenda, a

By :Bryce Bohorquez

meticulously constructed altar built in homes or at grave sites. These altars are layerered with symbolic elements intended to guide and nourish the visiting spirits. The two main days have distinct focuses: November 1st is typically dedicated to Día de los Angelitos (The Day of the Little Angels), honoring the souls of children who have died, with the ofrendas including toys and small treats. November 2nd honors the deceased adults, and their altars are decorated with that person’s favorite things from their lifetime. Here at Rio Hondo, Dia De Los Muertos is celebrated by many across the campus. The altar in the LRC is a great reminder of how big the Dia De Los Muertos spirit is here. It contains pictures of people’s friends and family. Some have even put up photo frames of a few celebrities. Notable examples being the likes of

Frida Kahlo, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Selena Quintanilla-Perez. “Me and my family celebrate it.” Says Alex Gonzales, a student of RHC. “Usually we go to my grandma’s grave at rose hills memorial to remember her and celebrate the occasion” Another student, Cristobal Villegas-Perez, celebrates the tradition as well. “Me and my mother would set up our ofrenda of our loved ones and decorate it with candles, bread, candy, fruits, things like that.” The celebrations are communal and festive. It’s almost never a sad occasion these 2 days. These graveside vigils can turn into celebrations with music, food, dancing, and the telling of amusing stories and anecdotes about their loved ones, ensuring they are remembered with joy and laughter.

By: Bryce Bohorquez

Kimberly Chenot and Lea Verdugo of the Resilience Community Club serve a variety of drinks while creating an inviting atmosphere at their booth during Rio Hondo College’s annual Boo Bash on Oct.30 2025.

uring its annual Boo Bash on October 30, 2025, Rio Hondo Community College turned its campus into a joyous occasion, bringing students, faculty, and families together for an evening of Halloweenthemed entertainment and camaraderie. Clubs and groups lined up with games, snacks, and activities; many of them highlighted the campus’s support services and opportunities for student involvement. World Class Steelo, a group that emphasizes a judgment-free atmosphere while supporting students, was one of the participating organizations. The club’s main goal is to educate members about various religions, belief systems, genders, and languages while promoting cross-cultural dialogue. The goal of the club, according to Avi Leyva, who came dressed as Santa Claus, is based on tolerance and inclusion. Talk about items and what people identify as, such as Christians, cats, Arabics, etc., and learn about their beliefs. We welcome people from all backgrounds,” Leyva declared. Passing youngsters were asked by the group to learn more about the club’s goal of promoting inclusive discourse and the variety of Rio Hondo’s community. Additionally, the Resilience Community Club was in full force. While creating a friendly

environment for students to interact, club leaders Lea Verdugo and Kimberly Chenot gave out iced lattes to attendees. The group, which is well-known for organizing events with a mental health theme and community service projects, wanted the kids to feel at ease and taken care of during the festivities. The Boo Bash included club outreach as well as games, music, and costume competitions to promote school pride and offer a secure setting for Halloween celebrations. Pupils showed up decked out as scary monsters, superheroes, movie figures, and even some holiday classics like Santa. The occasion was more than just a fun diversion from school for many. It brought attention to Rio Hondo’s continuous efforts to create a welcoming campus environment where students from all walks of life feel included. By the end of the evening, the campus quad was filled with chatter, laughter, and the clinking of iced latte cups, serving as a reminder that gatherings like Boo Bash foster meaningful connections between students. As Rio Hondo looks ahead to future events, organizers and club leaders hope the spirit of inclusivity continues to develop – not only on Halloween, but throughout the year.

The ofrenda, or altar, displayed at the Learning Resource Center. Photo taken on October 28th, 2025

Photo by: Eric Gonzales

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NEWS

WACSEP Disability Resource & Transition Fair By: Brooklyn Hunter

ACSEP Disability Resource Fair On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Whittier Area Cooperative Special Education Program (WACSEP) Disability Resource & Transition Fair took place at Pioneer High School. This resource fair usually takes place annually and aims to inform parents, families, and community members of disability resources, mainly for individuals aged 0 to 22-yearold. The WACSEP Community Advisory Committee (CAC) hosted this event. Whittier Union High School District (WUHSD) co-sponsored the event. There were about 20 vendors at this year’s WACSEP Disability Resource & Transition Fair. Vendors included disability services, rehabilitation, recreation, post-secondary education resources, health, advocacy, and more. The majority of the participants of the events were parents and families of individuals with disabilities. School faculty and community members also participated. WACSEP Executive Director Janet Queneau, Parent Board Member of WACSEP CAC Committee Lexie Duchi, and Vice Chair of WACSEP CAC Committee, Joel Escobar, represented WACSEP at the WACSEP table. They also announced the times for the workshops and the raffle drawings. For several years, the Disability Resource & Transition Fair has been providing individuals with disabilities, families, school staff and faculty, and community members with information and resources. Lexie Duchi is both a parent of children with disabilities and an active board member of the WACSEP CAC Committee. She summarized what WACSEP’s goal was for the resource fair and how the goal was met. Duchi mentioned that she is “very thankful for all the vendors and for the districts that are involved. And for all of the people that work and volunteer for these different vendors because

Golden Eagles Visit RHC: CSULA Day By: Edwin Ramos

n Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, Rio Hondo held California State University, Los Angeles Day in the lower quad. From 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.at the lower quad, students were able to talk to CSULA representatives about

By: Brooklyn Hunter From left, Vice Chair of WACSEP CAC Committee Joel Escobar, and WACSEP Executive Director Janet Queneau, WACSEP Disability Resource & Transition Fair on October 21, 2025. They answer questions and provide information to the participants. They also periodically announce the next workshop or the next raffle ticket drawing.

they are making such a big impact in our community.” The vendors at the resource fair are “providing resources and they’re helping people that maybe may not have had the opportunity to access that information of a different resource,” Duchi said. There were 2 live education workshops that took place at the resource fair. The 1st workshop was “Tech that Teaches: L Skill Building for all Ages Through Video Modeling” led by WACSEP Program Specialist, Lisa Torres. The 2nd workshop was “Supported Decision Making - An Alternative to Conservatorship,” led by Disability Voices United (DVU). The Santa Fe Springs City Library is one of the vendors that is open to the local community and has a program for individuals with disabilities. Adult and Teen Services Librarian Jessica Magallanes represented the Santa Fe Springs Library at the resource fair. She explained, “The Santa Fe Springs City Library is a small one-branch library that services our community through free programs and outreach. We serve all ages and aim to encourage literacy and lifelong learning.” Some of the programs at the library include the Adult Literacy and ESL Program, a monthly book club, and the Thursday

Club. The Thursday Club is an adaptive program at the library that is specifically for adults with disabilities. It is an opportunity for adults with disabilities to meet new friends. The club does activities including crafts, bingo, and karaoke. There was a table representing Rio Hondo College’s Disabled Student Programs and Services (DSPS). DSPS Director Sean Osborn and DSPS Alternate Media Specialist Ann Tran represented at the table. Osborn and Tran were ensuring that they provided information about what services are available in DSPS. Some services and accommodations that are available through DSPS include: DSPS counselors, extra time on tests, quiet places to test, sign language interpreters, the computer lab and alternate technology. Alternate technology includes: digital voice recorders, digital audio players, wireless microphones, captioning companions, pens that read text (C Pens), and much more. DSPS even provides a space for the students to relax, study, and eat lunch. Osborn and Tran also wanted to inform participants of the difference between disability services in K-12 schools and disability services in college. Osborn explained that “Some

transferring and more that the school offers. There were many representatives from Departments and Programs from CSULA. Some included the College of Natural and Social Sciences, Office of the Dean of Students, and Alumni Association. From the moment the event started, students made their way to the many tables set up at the lower quad. All representatives from CSULA greeted Rio Hondo students in a great way and invited them to talk about their future plans. For students, this event was not only about gathering brochures, but those who had submitted

their transfer application had an opportunity to learn more about admission requirements. Throughout the event, many students were seen asking questions to the CSULA representatives to learn more information. Second-year student David Gutierrez had great things to say about how CSULA could be a school to transfer to. “I’ve looked into CSULA, and it has many benefits that can help me once I transfer, so I hope all goes well for me as an Arts major,” Gutierrez said. The event was organized by the Rio Hondo Transfer Center. This event was advertised by flyers and through social media

of the information that we gave was to explain the differences that occur when they transition from the laws that help them in high school to the laws that help them in college.” An example for the difference is that the K-12 schools follow the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) while colleges and universities follow the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The resource fair is hosted annually, but there are other ways to reach out to WACSEP. WACSEP also has a website where parents, educators,

and community members can find information about the program itself. It also has information and resources related to disabilities and special education, as well as upcoming events both in person and online. Throughout the year, WACSEP hosts training sessions. Parents and educators could also contact WACSEP through the website or email for any questions or suggestions. The WACSEP is a useful tool to stay tuned for any upcoming events, as well as any new information and resources.

By: Brooklyn Hunter From left, Alternate Media Specialist Ann Tran, and DSPS Director Sean Osborn represent the Disabilities Student Programs and Services (DSPS) from Rio Hondo College at the WACSEP Disability Resource & Transition Fair on October 21, 2025. They provide information about the services that DSPS provides and explain how disability services in college look.

By: Brooklyn Hunter On October 21, 2025, WACSEP Program Specialist, Lisa Torres leads a workshop called “Tech that Teaches: L Skill Building for all Ages Through Video Modeling” at the WACSEP Disability Resource & Transition Fair.

to remind students of the importance of being able to talk to university representatives can lead them to their career path. CSULA advisor Celeste Carrasco gave well-received responses to students coming up to the College of National and Social Sciences table. “To be able to help students find a career path in Social Sciences is amazing because I want to show that it may be a lot for them, but putting in effort to attend CSULA is a great opportunity,” Carrasco said. Having the presence of CSULA representatives at Rio Hondo gave students a feel for how to have a smooth transition into

university life and education. It was an overall success for CSULA Day at Rio Hondo as the event was concluding. Many tables were occupied throughout the start and end of the event as students came to check out what could help them. Many students at the end of the event left with flyers and more information that they had coming into the event to help them continue their education. For some, it may seem that it’s just another recruitment process, but for soon-to-be transfer students, it was an opportunity to take their first step towards a new chapter in their careers.

NEWS

The Opening Of Metro’s D Line Extension is Being Delayed Once Again

By: Eric Gonzales The much-anticipated extension of one of LA Metro’s underground subways has been delayed to next year due to issues with testing. The first of three Metro D Line extensions into west Los Angeles, Section 1, was scheduled to open later this year, expanding the subway nearly four miles with three new stations along Wilshire Boulevard. The new stations are 98% complete, but earlier this week, Metro officials announced that train testing of the next extension took longer than expected. For years, the plan has been for the first part of the extension to open in late-2025, although an exact date had yet to be formally announced. Now that timeline has shifted several months, to potentially a year, with Metro officials saying it is anticipated in Winter 2026. In addition to the testing issues, Metro is also revitalizing the streets and blocks around the new stations, which includes the construction of new sidewalks, curbs, and fixed roads. The D Line was closed in its entirety earlier this year for

A train departing from Wilshire / Western station, where the D line’s western terminus currently is. Photo taken on July 15th, 2025

Photo by: Eric Gonzales

more than two months to allow for crews to work on communications lines and power systems to connect the extension to the rest of the underground system. The line was then reopened in July with anticipation building more than ever for the opening of LA’s first subway expansion in decades, althou-

his frustration with the delay, while also acknowledging that this isn’t the first time that there’s been a delay. “It’s a little frustrating to hear again, but in all honesty, I am not surprised about it. I think the A line connection to the union station was supposed to be done in 2020, but it was delayed for 3 more years.” referr-

gh although light rail projects in the past have been built underground over the years as well, examples being the A, E, and K light rail lines. “I heard the train was coming to Westwood, 10 years ago. Now it’s being delayed again?” says Fernando Olmos, an LA resident and frequent commuter of Metro. Olmos vented

referring to the Regional connecter Transit project which opened in 2023. With many ongoing projects running into issues, frustration and anxiety has been building for Metro users and supporters, particularly as the city inches closer to the Summer Olympics in 2028, an event city leaders have said they would like to be a mostly carfree zone. This delay of Section 1 on the D Line appears to precede another delay further down the line. The 2.6-mile Section 2 extension, which will include two new stations on Beverly Drive and Century City, may also be pushed back from 2026 to 2027. The final 2.56-mile Section 3 extension, which would create a terminus at the Westwood/VA Hospital, is planned to open in 2027 as well, although a delay for that section is not confirmed. While West LA residents have to hold out a little longer, the eventual service launch will mark a historic moment, LA’s first major subway expansion in decades and a critical step toward a truly connected city. It will be an achievement to celebrate, whenever that final train finally rolls out for service

Dodgers Repeat as World Series Champions

Photo by: REUTERS/via SNO Sites/John E. Sokolowski Oct 31, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22) celebrates with the Commissioner’s Trophy on the podium after defeating the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. into the game at another time, the best Game 7 ever?!” By: Bella Fortney a 5-4 Dodgers victory. the events that took place last so he took the ball in the first Given the breadth of baseball he Dodgers have won Yoshinobu Yamamoto night, stating: inning. His opposition: three- history, you know you’ve seen back-to-back World Series delivered a standout “Two-way superstar Shohei time Cy Young winner, and something special; when titles, becoming the first team performance throughout the Ohtani started on the mound one of only four pitchers to you have a Game 7 in extra since the Yankees in 1998- World Series. This earned him for Los Angeles on three days’ throw multiple World Series innings in the first place, you 2000. They triumphed in a the honor of being named rest. Manager Dave Roberts game sevens, Max Scherzer.” know you’ve seen some wild thrilling seven-game series World Series MVP. elected to start him because Said by Dan Freedman. plays.” said by Mike Petriello. against the Toronto Blue Jays, The Blue Jays, despite their of the peculiarity of the Critics are also saying “Game The significance of the claiming a dramatic extra- effort, fell short of winning “Ohtani Rule,” which allows 7 of the 2025 World Series Dodgers repeating as innings Game 7. their third championship, a starting pitcher to leave was one of the wildest, and to champions is that it’s the first Outfielder Kiké Hernandez remaining without a title since the mound and stay in the some extent that’s expressed time in 25 years a baseball celebrated the victory, calling 1993. game as only the hitter, but as easily as “a deciding World team accomplishes this feat. it one of the best Series in Tom Verduccis’ article, if that same player becomes Series game went to extra The Dodgers will now history. Miguel Rojas hit a “Dodgers Are About to Test the pitcher later in the game innings,” which had happened look into three-peating as game-tying homer in the Shohei Ohtani’s Seemingly and then departs, the team just twice before in baseball champions which would be ninth, and Will Smith’s go- Limitless Boundaries.” loses the hitter. The Dodgers history. When you’re talking incredible and show that this ahead homer in the 11th led to explains more in depth about couldn’t risk bringing Ohtani about things like “was that team is a dynasty.

NEWS

The Puente Program: Support and Empowerment

Photo by: Donna Walsh On October 30, Natalie Morales, Froylan Zazueta, Apollonia Cuellar, Ben Tran, Justin Elias, Qian Zhang, and classmates listened to transfer advice from an in-class presentation given by a Cal State Los Angeles recruiter. The 2025-26 Puente Scholars cohort consists of 28 first-year students who commit to a counseling class and two English classes.

By: Donna Walsh

uente Scholars is a one-year cohort program designed to develop the necessary skills to transfer and succeed at a four-year university and beyond. At Rio Hondo College (RHC) the program is open to all interested students, independent of ethnic identity. Its mission is to increase the number of educationally underserved students who enroll in four-year colleges and universities, earn degrees, and return to the community as leaders and mentors. Puente Scholar Cohort Each year, the cohort typically consists of 28 firstyear students who share one counseling class and two English classes over two semesters. Puente Scholars also participate in group activities, workshops, and single-day and weekend field trips to universities, such as their October 2025 weekend trip to UC San Diego, San Diego State, and the University of San Diego. Other Puente Scholar perks include priority registration, assistance from a dedicated counselor, a connection with a community mentor, and leadership opportunities and community service. Angela Sotelo, Puente Scholars Counselor/

Coordinator (and Rio Hondo Alumni), teaches the program’s Counseling 102, Introduction to the Transfer Process. Although most of the students are in their first year, the program is also available to seasoned RHC students. “I have students who have been here for a while, but have never taken or passed their English 1000,” explained Sotelo. “If they haven’t taken the freshman composition and they want to join Puente, even though they’re returning students or continuing

website, it was founded in 1981 by Felix Galaviz and Patricia McGrath at Chabot College in Hayward, Calif. The project began as a grassroots initiative aimed at addressing the low academic achievement rates among Mexican American and Latino students. Galaviz and McGrath analyzed more than 2,000 student transcripts to understand the high dropout rate. They identified three key patterns among Latino students: students were avoiding academic counseling, students were not enrolling in

Photo by: Donna Walsh Angela Sotelo, Puente Scholars Counselor/Coordinator, teaches Introduction to the Transfer Process. Her dedication to her students doesn’t end when the class finishes. “We encourage the students to continue to come see me.”

said first-year student Pablo Chamagua, who learned about RHC’s Puente Scholars program from Sotelo while he was completing his high school diploma at El Monte Rosemead Adult School. “The Puente Scholars group kind of becomes like a family.” At Sotelo’s urging to become involved at school, the social work major has become part of the Legacy program, serves as a senator in the RHC Associated Student Body, and works as a student worker in the counseling office.

“We want it to be rigorous because we want them to succeed. So if they’re going to Berkeley, UCLA, or to other campuses, we don’t want it to be a surprise. We want them to be ready for that level of standards.” - Angela Sotelo

students, they could join.” The Puente experience is not limited to the Puente Scholars program. Students can also be part of the Puente Club. The Puente Project is under the Counseling division at RHC and is co-sponsored by the University of California and the California Community College Chancellor’s Office. Puente Project History The Puente Project has been at RHC for 38 years. According to the Puente Project’s official

Photo courtesy of Angela Sotelo In October 2025, the RHC Puente Scholars took a weekend field trip to San Diego. They visited local parks and attractions and toured UC San Diego, San Diego State, and the University of San Diego.

college-level writing courses, and students were often the first in their families to attend college. The Puente Program was created to address these three areas. Program Curriculum At RHC, Puente Scholars take two consecutive writing classes with Professor Alonso Garcia. In the Fall, they take English C1000, College Composition and Research, and in the Spring, English C1001, Critical Thinking. In her Fall counseling class, students work with Sotelo to explore career options, develop an academic educational plan, and identify their goals. She said that they hold the Puente Scholars to a high standard. “We want it to be rigorous because we want them to succeed,” said Sotelo. “So if they’re going to Berkeley, UCLA, or to other campuses, we don’t want it to be a surprise. We want them to be ready for that level of standards. In the Spring, our students are actually recommended to take honors classes.” Sotelo mentioned that, with so much time spent together, the cohort often becomes a cohesive unit. “We build a bond that’s very strong amongst our peers,”

Other students also credit Puente Scholars and Sotelo’s encouragement with having a transformative effect on their lives. Felix Acosta, a first-year welding technician student at RHC, returned to college after a 10-year break. He knew Sotelo from his Cal State Upward Bound program at Woodrow Wilson High School in Los Angeles. He had been working as a delivery driver when Sotelo reached out to him.

“She kind of just gave me a burst of inspiration, you know, knowing that there’s a group of people that are willing to help each student out with their struggles, whatever it is that they’re going through in life,” said Acosta. First-year RHC student Tegan Liranza, a ‘25 graduate of California High School in Whittier, said that she appreciates how the Puente Scholars program has broadened her horizons. “It’s definitely shown me different colleges and ways to branch out,” said Liranza. And then with this counseling class, our teacher brings different colleges to give presentations. So that’s a really big thing that I’m really interested in.” Liranza said that Puente Scholars has exposed her to university-level expectations. That will come in handy when she is ready to transfer to one of the universities she is considering, University of Washington, UCLA, or UC Berkeley. How to Join Puente Scholars For more information about the Puente Scholars Program or the Puente Club, contact Angela Sotelo at asotelo@ riohondo.edu or call (562) 908-3410, or visit the Puente Program website:

Photo by: Donna Walsh First-year welding technician student Felix Acosta is considering transferring to Cal State LA to study Kinesiology. “Being part of Puente helped me,” said Acosta. “You know, it’s a rhythm that you need to find to continue thriving.”

Your Guide to Healthy Sleep

By; Bella Fortney

rifting off to sleep can be easier than you think. A lot of you may have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep throughout the night. However, something as common as this could be an easy change if taken into consideration. Throughout our sleep, we go through different cycles. According to Sleep By Doctor Eric Sun, these are the cycles we experience: “There are four sleep stages, including one for rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and three that form non-REM (NREM) sleep, and each plays a part in allowing you to wake up refreshed. Understanding the sleep cycle also helps explain how certain sleep disorders, including insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea, can impact a person’s sleep and health.” “Stage 1 (N1) is the lightest stage of sleep and occurs as a person first falls asleep. Stage 2 (N2) is where the body starts to relax more deeply. Body temperature drops, muscles relax, and heart and breathing rate slow. Stage 3 (N3 or deep sleep) is the deepest and most restorative sleep, allowing the body to recover and grow. Stage 4 (REM Sleep) is where most dreaming occurs, brain activity increases, and the body becomes temporarily paralyzed.” Said by Doctor Eric Sun. Using this as a guide to keep in mind the cycles your body experiences throughout the night can be helpful for understanding and trying to correct your sleep schedule. Oftentimes, when we have things on our mind, it can easily lead to pent-up stress which can hinder how efficient sleep can be. It would be good to make

Illustration by: Omar Lopez your bedroom a safe place. When it hits 2 am and you’re wide awake, worrying about how little sleep you’re going to get or how tired you feel in the morning, your body might

register your bed as the place where your mind is the most hyperactive. Try changing up your sleeping area by possibly sleeping in a living room or sleeping beside someone.

Breathing exercises can also be beneficial. Accepting that you will sleep at some point, your body will eventually drift off. As someone who has

LIFESTYLES struggled with both sides of insomnia, from either going to sleep extremely late or naturally waking up too early, what I found the most helpful was exercise and enjoying nature. Try to get your body moving anytime you can, such as walking, cardio, weight training, and more. For exercise, there are endless possibilities to suit your needs and personality. Make working out fun and get excited about it. Even trying a new hobby that makes you happy is a good way to boost morale. During the day, setting a plan to complete all the chores or activities on your mind can be another way to reduce stress. Using things like a journal or planner can be helpful, but opt for something on paper rather than a phone or computer. After making a list, aim to make a good breakfast first thing in the morning. Our bodies need substance to prepare for whatever day we may have. From there, get all the things you need to do early. It’s really easy for us to relax, be on our phones, and think, “In 30 minutes I’ll start,” instead of being a victim of procrastination. Just do it. Just do everything you can and put in the effort to do your best. Get everything you need to get done as early as possible, so nighttime can be your time to relax. Rewiring your brain to know that the daytime is for work, activities, and fun, and nighttime is for relaxation and self-care. Don’t forget to prioritize yourself as best you can. Creating a safe and comforting environment always helps. Over time, building these habits will become easier, and sleep will become the new normal for you.

From Community College to USC How One Student Fast-Tracked Her Path to Succcess By: Bryce Bohorquez

ophia Gutierrez, who is only 20 years old, has already achieved what many students strive for for years: moving from a small college to a prestigious institution in record speed. The Whittier native, who graduated from La Serna High School in 2023, attended Rio Hondo College for just one year before being accepted to the University of Southern California. At USC’s Marshall School of Business, Gutierrez is currently a Business Administration major with a focus on business analytics and an anticipated minor in Artificial Intelligence for Business. This combination shows her desire to combine strategy and technology in the ever-changing corporate

world. “I got the foundation I needed by starting at a community college,” Gutierrez said. “It enabled me to save money, pursue my academic interests, and still push myself to make it to a university like USC.” The increasing number of community college students who are accelerating their education and moving to fouryear universities earlier than ever before is demonstrated by Gutierrez’s narrative. Clearer pathways and collaborations between two- and four-year institutions have contributed to a steady increase in transfer rates from California community colleges in recent years, according to state data. Most students, like Gutierrez,

knew she would transfer into a four year, stating “USC was always number one on my list and I simply wanted to get the best chance I could get even if it meant going to community college within a year”. Gutierrez flourished in smallclass environments at Rio Hondo College and received guidance from transfer counselors who helped her navigate the demanding USC application process. She recalls, “They were really supportive.” “They gave me confidence that I could actually accomplish this and helped me stay on course.” Gutierrez is now fully embracing campus life at USC. She belongs to one of the oldest sororities at the university, Kappa Kappa

Gamma, where she has made friends and gained leadership experience. “Meeting other strong women who motivate me every day has been incredible,” she remarked. As she looks to the future, Gutierrez wants to work in data analytics or tech consulting, fields that she thinks will further expand as artificial intelligence changes corporate strategy. Her journey from a Whittier community college classroom to the Marshall School hallways at USC serves as a reminder that there is no one right way to succeed. She asserted that community college is not a barrier. “For me, everything else was made possible by the launchpad.”

Photo by Bryce Bohorquez

USC Student Sophia Gutierrez flashes a peace sign while enjoying a postclass afternoon at the beach on October 21, 2025.

SPORTS

Late Goal By the Road Runners Forces 2-2 Draw in Conference Matchup

8 El Paisano Staff Marissa Chavez Editor-in-Chief

Omar Lopez Reporter

By: Edwin Ramos

he Road Runners soccer team faced off in a conference matchup against LA Harbor on Friday, Oct. 31, where the game ended in a tie between the two. From the start of the game, the Road Runners looked great with their passing and defense all around. After ten minutes, both teams looked equal in their shooting and the chances they created on opposite ends. The first half of the game was all Rio Hondo as they created over 5 chances in the box against LA Harbor, showing that the team was trying to get a quick lead. It wasn’t until the 42nd minute of the first half that the road runners opened the scoring with a goal by Sophomore Jayden Ortiz being assisted by Sophomore Jose Luna. At halftime it was Rio Hondo 1 and LA Harbor 0. The start of the second half

was completely different for both teams. Although coming off a strong end to the first half, the road runners did not look the same at the beginning of the second half. They looked out of place, and that’s where the Seahawks took advantage and tied the game in the 53rd minute from a goal by Sophomore Gabriel Amaya. Just after, in the 57th minute, the Seahawks would score again with a second goal from Amaya. It was there when the road runners seemed out of it and understood that they needed to regroup as a team to try and find a way back in this game. The next minutes of the game were mostly back and forth with the Seahawks creating many chances to widen the margin in the game, but spectacular work by the

Bryce Bohorquez road runners’ goalkeeper, Freshman Damien Porter, kept them in the game. It wasn’t until the late stages of the game that the road runners tied the game with a goal by Sophomore Jensen Martinez, assisted by Freshman Angel Sanchez in the 79th minute. The final ten minutes of the game were evenly matched for both sides as each could get a clear shot on goal due to the defense from both teams holding strong. The game then ended in a tie between the two teams, with the Road Runners now standing at four wins, twelve losses, and two ties. After the game, Road Runners head coach Orlando Brenes spoke about the performance of the team. “I thought we did extremely well in the first half and felt we started the second half slow,

and that resulted in Harbor being able to get back… the only thing that came out positive was that our players did not stop playing and were able to capitalize at the end,” Brenes said. Road Runners captain Ryan Ching also spoke about the difference in both halves that led to this game ending in a tie. “I feel like we just went into the second half overconfident, dominating the first half with many chances and more possessions, but our mistakes led to their goal at the start of the second half, and we couldn’t break out of that spell until it was too late, and it was tied,” Ching said. The Road Runners look to get back on track as they will be playing in the South Coast Conference Tournament starting this week.

Reporter

Bella Fortney Reporter

Edwin Ramos Reporter

Donna Walsh Reporter

Brooklyn Hunter Reporter

Eric Gonzales Reporter

Aaron Martinez Instructor

W. Carrera

Lady Roadrunners Make a Splash With First Win of the Season

Advisor

By: Marissa Chavez

he women’s water polo team had their 14th game of the season on Wednesday Oct. 22 located at the Rio Hondo’s aquatic center. This game was their first win of the season. With a score of 20-6 the roadrunners beat the opposing team, Pasadena City College. Rio Hondo’s women’s water polo team is coached by head coach Todd Lim and co head coach Jeremey Foster. Foster was proud of his team earning their first win of the season “I think they did really well, considering almost all of them scored a goal and people that haven’t scored yet finally got a chance to see what it’s like to score a goal.” Foster says. The women’s water polo team has approximately three weeks left of their season. The game started off close, with the score being 4-3 after the first quarter then during the second quarter scoring 11-3. Those seven points really gave the women’s water polo team the confidence they needed to win the game. Co head coach, Jeremey Foster had been coaching at Rio Hondo since 2017, starting off as assistant coach and now working as the co head coach. Foster is excited for the next year to come. “We got a lot of talented girls

Rio Hondo’s Womens Waterpolo plays against Pasadena City College on Wednesday, Oct. 22 and earns their first win of the season. The final score was 20-6. The game took place at Rio Hondo’s Aquatic’s Center. that, maybe have played for a different style of program or a different style of water polo, but we’re looking to kind of help them evolve as people and as players, just so that way, in case they want to pursue or continue playing into that four-year program.” Foster says. The next game will be held on Nov. 6 versus and at Cerritos College.

Photos by: Marissa Chavez

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