Community Beacon December 2013 PDF
Transcripción
Community Beacon December 2013 PDF
December 2013 Volume I, Issue 2 Celebrating Dia de los Muertos www.communitybeacon.tumblr.com Inside Photos courtesy of Liz Gonzalez and Ray Rios ■ Calendar of Events – 2 ■ Reader Letter – 2 ■ New Adult Services Program – 3 ■ LAPD Captain Baeza – 3 ■ Soto Shifts to Commercial – 3 ■ El Gabacho – 4 ■ Free Computer Workshop – 5 ■ Farmdale Open Mic – 5 ■ Veterans Symbol – 6 ■ Return to Lincoln Heights – 6 ■ Local Scholarship – 6 ■ Coaching Soccer – 7 ■ Colin Hay at Luckman – 7 ■ USC Health Fair – 7 ■ Neighborhood Council Updates – 8 ■ A Taste of Guadalajara – 8 ■ Educational Winds – 9 ■ Soto Street Bridge – 10 ■ Eastern & Lombardy Update – 10 ■ Mayor Garcetti Visits – 11 ■ Business Directory – 11 Ray Rios D ia de los Muertos is a very ornate and high spirited Mexican holiday which continues to grow with ever increasing popularity in Los Angeles and throughout the United States. It can be traced back to the Mesoamerican civilizations of the Lure of Gangs Jimmy Franco Sr. T he continuing growth of gangs, drug addiction, violence and incarceration continues to occur within our community. Gangs and their socially corrosive effect upon our youth and families must be directly addressed, not ignored. Latinos cannot fully progress while such a growing number are losing their future to drug and alcohol abuse, violence, and being locked up. The unwillingness of leaders to fully discuss and politically address this widening social problem is similar to a family that ignores a family member’s deepening behavioral problem, hoping that it will simply go away. A demand for drugs has Olmec, Mayan, and in particular, the Aztec civilizations. These ancient cultures all believed that death was not the end of life but only the beginning of a journey to a new one and that the departure of loved ones should not be sadly mourned but cheerfully celebrated. November 1st marks the first day of this annual celebration as it remembers those children who have passed on prior to reaching adulthood “Dia de los Angelitos” while November 2nd marks the day for remembering those adults who have passed. During this time, families remember and honor their loved ones by creating alters Continued on page 4, Cultura transformed youth gangs into thriving businesses. The profits to be made with a minimal amount of education can be considerable. This had fueled an arms race to acquire more firepower to overwhelm each gang’s competitors and to extend domination over new territory, which boosts profits. This has raised the level of violence and death from gunfire and drugs, and sharply increased incarcerations. Similarly, during the Prohibition period of history ethnic gangs waged vicious battles and killed one another in order to satisfy the public’s demand for illegal alcohol, and to seize control of its supply and immense profits. The legalization and regulation of alcohol put most of these gangs out of business. Presently, the level of drug consumption and profits, guns and violence and imprisonment for non-violent drug offenses is spiraling upwards. And, many youth are developing business alliances with adults from hardcore prison gangs and major drug cartels, harming the lives of hundreds of thousands of youth and unavoidably impacting their children and those around them. Gang injunctions and police sweeps along with harsh jail sentences are the same failed measures of the past that put a temporary band-aid on this activity. Resources are needed to strengthen an intervention strategy of effective drug treatment in conjunction with literacy and job skills training to break this growing cycle of shattered lives. Continued on page 4, Gangs LAUSD Breakfast in the Classroom? El Desayuno en la Clase? Amelia Velazquez A measure passed by the LAUSD School Board last year, based on the assumption that providing students with an in-class breakfast would help them achieve will, in fact, have the opposite effect. This policy mandates students be allowed a minimum of 20 minutes at the beginning of the day to receive nutritional breakfast snacks like Café LA Coffee Cake and Sweet Potato Muffins. It stipulates that breakfast be served either in the classroom and will be considered instructional time. Furthermore, snacks are to be handed out by the students and teachers, who are then tasked with cleaning up the resulting mess, at the start of the day, when students should be focusing on academics. Is this truly appropriate instructional time for children? Student’s instructional time is lost at a minimal rate of 20 minutes (realistically 30 minutes) a day, 400 minutes a month, 10 full days Continued on page 9, Breakfast U Help keep this paper in print and delivered to your home. Send a check to: Community Beacon 1912 S. Boca Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90032 La Atraccion de las pandillas E l continuo crecimiento de las pandillas, la drogadicción, la violencia y el encarcelamiento ocurre en esta comunidad. Las pandillas y su efecto socialmente corrosivo en la juventud y las familias debe estar directamente dirigida, no ignorado. Los latinos no pueden avanzar totalmente mientras que un número cada vez mayor como está perdiendo su futuro a las drogas y el abuso del alcohol, la violencia, y se encerró. La falta de voluntad de los líderes para discutir plena y políticamente frente a este problema social es similar a una familia que ignora la profundización de un problema de comportamiento de un miembro de la familia, con la esperanza de que simplemente desaparecerá. La demanda de drogas ha transformado las pandillas juveniles en negocios prósperos. Los beneficios que se obtienen a partir de los jóvenes con un mínimo de educación pueden ser considerables. Esto dio pie a una carrera armamentista para adquirir más poder de fuego para abrumar a los competidores de cada pandilla y extender la dominación de un nuevo territorio, que aumenta las ganancias. Esto aumento el nivel de la violencia y la Continúa en la página 4, Pandillas G O T N E W S ? na medida aprobada por el Consejo Escolar del LAUSD año pasado, basado en el supuesto de que proporcionar a los estudiantes con un desayuno en su clase le ayudaría a a tener éxito, tiene el efecto contrario. Esta poliza manda que estudiantes dispongan de un mínimo de 20 minutos al comienzo del día para recibir aperitivos nutricionales de desayuno como Café LA pastel de cafe y magdalenas de camote. En ella se estipula que el desayuno se sirve en el salón de clases o durante un descanso de nutrición, y se considerará tiempo de instrucción. Call us at (323)245-9408 Además, bocados deben ser entregados por los estudiantes y maestros, que luego son encargadas de limpiar el desorden resultante. Esto se debe hacer en el comienzo del día, cuando los estudiantes deben centrarse en lo académico. Esto verdaderamente es tiempo de instrucción apropiado para sus hijos? El tiempo de instrucción del estudiante esta en realidad perdiendo a un ritmo de 20 minutos (realmente 30 minutos) al día, 400 minutos al mes, 10 días completos al año, 30 días completos más de tres años. Conservativamente, unos 20 días de Continúa en la página 9, Desayuno Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo Page 2 communitybeacon.tumblr.com Calendar of Community Events Mon. Dec. 2 LH Neighborhood Council Outreach Com.–5 p.m. Budget & Finance Com.–6:30 p.m. Holiday Parade Com.–7 p.m. Aztec Rising, 3516 N. Broadway Sun. Dec. 8 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Eastside Zine Market Hazard Park Armory 1350 San Pablo St. Tues. Dec. 3 from 6-8 p.m. EL ARCA Tree Lighting Ceremony Pictures with Santa, holiday music, hot drinks 3839 Selig Pl. Wednes. Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. LA32NC General Board Meeting El Sereno Senior Center 4721 Klamath Street Wed. Dec. 11 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Community Business Mixer Bank of America 2400 N. Broadway RSVP (323)221-6571 [email protected] Thurs. Dec. 12 at 10 a.m. LHNC Executive Committee Aztec Rising, 3516 N. Broadway Thurs. Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. LA32NC Land Use Barrio Action 4927 Huntington Dr. N Sat. Dec. 7 Winter Basketball Evaluations Rose Hill Rec. Center 4530 Mercury Ave. Thurs, Dec. 12 from 6-8 p.m. Assembly District 51 Holiday Open House & Toy Drive District 51 Office 1910 W. Sunset Blvd., Suite 810 (213)483-5151 for more info Sat. Dec. 7 at 12:30 p.m. Holiday Movie for teens LH Library, 2530 Workman St. Sat. Dec. 7, evening X-mas Toy Drive Event Singer: Niki Nicholle Hecho en Mexico 4976 S. Huntington Dr. Bring new UNWRAPPED toy and dance to the beat of our local rising star Sun. Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. LH Holiday Parade, Festival, & Resource Fair Starts Broadway/Lincoln Park Ave. Sun. Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. ESCC Senior Beautification “Holidays” El Sereno Senior Center 4721 Klamath Street Sat. Dec. 14 from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Breakfast with Santa El Sereno Senior Center 4721 Klamath Street Sat. Dec. 14 at 8:30 a.m. El Sereno Community Cleanup Rose Hill Recreation Center 4530 Mercury Ave. ES Recreation Center 4721 Klamath Street Woodbridge Village Apartment 1900 N Marianna Ave. LAFD Fire Station 47 4575 Huntington Dr. S Sat. Dec. 14 from 4-9 p.m. El Sereno Tree Lighting Ceremony and Jubilee Live music, Children's activities, Free Raffles, Toys (while supplies last) free cookies, champurado, coffee snacks. Huntington/Van Horne Wed. Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. Community Police Advisory Board (C-PAB) Meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month Hollenbeck Police Station 2111 E. 1st Street Wed. Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. LA32NC Arts + Culture Com. El Sereno Library 5226 Huntington Dr. S Wed. Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. LA32NC Beautification Com. Absolute Towing 4760 W. Valley Blvd. Wed. Dec. 18 from 7-9 p.m. El Sereno Community Coordinating Council Absolute Towing 4760 W. Valley Blvd. Fri. Dec. 20 from 6-8 p.m. A Visit from Santa Holiday Event Rose Hill Rec. Center 4530 Mercury Ave. Sat. Dec. 21 from 2-3 p.m. Bubblemania Holiday Program for kids LH Library, 2530 Workman St. Fri. Dec. 27 Pre-new Year Family Mixer Celebrate and bring in 2014 with Cheer! [email protected] Sat. Dec. 28 at 2 p.m. Holiday Movie for teens LH Library, 2530 Workman St. Jan. 6-18 Registration for Free! LA Kids Classes El Sereno Rec. Center, 4721 Klamath St. Thurs. Jan. 9 at 6 p.m. LA32 NC Land Use Barrio Action 4927 Huntington Dr. N Wed. Jan. 15 at 6 p.m. Community Police Advisory Board (C-PAB) Meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month Hollenbeck Police Station 2111 E. 1st Street COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTORS: CONNIE CASTRO MIKE PHILLIPS VIK CHAUBY RAY RIOS ABELARDO DIAZ NANCI ROSAS JIMMY FRANCO SR. CARMEN TATA EL GABACHO ADIL TATA ROBERT GRANADOS AMELIA VELAZQUEZ MARTIN HERNANDEZ BILL WATKINS VERA PADILLA TOM WILLIAMS COMMUNITY BEACON LA LUZ DE PUEBLO communitybeacon.tumblr.com (323)245-9408 GEORGE CABRERA, MARKETING DIRECTOR RICHARD CANALES, PHOTOGRAPHER Wed. Jan. 15 at 6:30 p.m. LA32NC Arts + Culture El Sereno Library 5226 Huntington Dr. S Thurs. Jan. 16 at 6:30 p.m. Beautification Committee Absolute Towing 4760 W. Valley Blvd. Sat. Jan. 18 Winter Basketball games start Rose Hill Rec. Center 4530 Mercury Ave. Jan. 25 at 8 p.m. Antonio Zambujo, male fado singer Luckman Fine Arts Complex CSULA Fri. Jan. 31 from 7–9 p.m. El Sereno Community Coordinating Council Absolute Towing 4760 W. Valley Blvd. Ongoing: English Conversation Class Mondays 4-5 p.m. El Sereno Library 5226 Huntington Dr. S 12/2, 12/9, 12/16 (323)226-1692 Building Well-being in Our Families Construyendo el Bienestar en Nuestras Familias Tuesdays 6-7:50 p.m. El Sereno Library 5226 Huntington Dr. S [email protected] (213)305-3426 LAC Department of Mental Health Community Bike Rides Tuesdays 7:00 p.m. Eastside Bike Club Meet in front of Food4Less Rose Hills Senior Club 2nd & 4th Tuesday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Social club: Bingo, lunch, dances, trips Rose Hill Rec. Center 4530 Mercury Ave. (323)225-0450 Children’s Storytime Wednesdays 4-5 p.m. LH Library, 2530 Workman St. 12/4, 12/11, 12/18 Aztec Dancing Fridays 6:30–8 p.m. Rose Hill Rec. Center 4530 Mercury Ave. Judith Garcia (213)481-8265 LETTER FROM READER Hello Mr. Cabrera, Marketing Director Thank you so much for this Community Beacon newspaper. It was delivered to our steps on La Calandria Dr. I was not able to make the feedback meeting yesterday. But I would like to say a few things, to inspire you to keep it up. I know newspapers are struggling all over the country. I only get the LA Times on Sunday now. It’s hard to read it every day. But when you want to get information on a local level, it is so hard to do. And I feel you are filling that void. I had been wondering what happened about the Charter School Rezoning project. Now I know! I was there, at one of those well attended meetings at Barrio Action and spoke up against "Hilltop Removal" as a long-time homeowner and local artist. It was great to see so many residents being involved. It’s good to see the paper in Spanish also, even though I don't read it. And that you keep the languages in different type fonts. Easier to find. The Community Calendar is a wonderful feature also. This is a great way to unite the community. I hope you can keep up the hard work. Sincerely, David Botello Karoake Friday/Saturday nights from 8 p.m.-midnight El Puerto Escondido 3343 N Eastern Ave. (323)909-1008 Mariachi & Karaoke Every Sunday Hecho en Mexico 4976 S. Huntington Dr. For more info, call (323)226-0010 Yoga Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Eastside Collective Health Collective, 5469 Hungtington Dr. Suggested Donation: $2-$5 (323)245-9408 Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo New Adult Services Program Nuevo Programa de Servicios para Adultos E L ARCA, Inc. is a 501-3 nonprofit located in Lincoln Heights. EL ARCA provides services to persons with developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, mental retardation and Autism. EL ARCA is proud to introduce its newest program, the Community Based Adult Services (CBAS) program at its multipurpose center, located at 3839 Selig Place in Los Angeles, 90031. The services are generally paid for by managed care HMOs. The CBAS program is the State replacement for the Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) program, which was eliminated by the state legislature last year. The CBAS program benefits seniors and developmentally disabled adults with medical concerns by providing them nursing care and observation as well as therapeutic activities. In addition, physical, occupational and speech therapy services are provided as needed and according to each participant’s individualized plan of care. EL ARCA also provides reliable transportation to and from home in addition to a hot meal every day. If you would like more information about the CBAS program or would like to tour our facilities, please contact us at (323)223-3079 to schedule a tour. You may also learn more about EL ARCA and its services at www.elarcainc.org E ocupacional y del habla se proporcionan según sea necesario. CBAS es la sustitución del estado para el programa de Cuidado Diurno para Adultos (ADHC), que la legislatura estatal eliminó el año pasado. EL ARCA también proporciona transporte fiable hacia y desde casa, además de una comida caliente todos los días. Si desea obtener más información sobre el programa CBAS o quisiera visitar nuestras instalaciones (en 3839 Selig Pl), por favor comuníquese con nosotros al (323)223-3079 para programar una visita. También puede aprender más sobre EL ARCA y sus servicios en www.elarcainc.org. l programa nueva Base Comunitaria de Servicios para Adultos (CBAS) beneficia a las personas mayores y los adultos con discapacidades de desarrollo con problemas médicos, proporcionándoles cuidados de enfermería y la observación, así como actividades terapéuticas. Los servicios de terapia física, A Genuine Local Democracy Jimmy Franco result of building democracy from the bottom up is the eventual election of honest, ethical officials who may be held accountabled by voters for their decisions. If this public check-and-balance is ignored the whole democratic process may be undermined by opportunist elements seeking financial gain at the expense of the community. In major cities people of color elected to the position of mayor have professed a belief in reform and enhanced democracy. These A “reformist” politicians eventually became even more corrupt than those they replaced. In Los Angeles County, the election of Latino and African-American leaders in cities such as Bell, South Gate, Compton and Inglewood created miniature “banana republics” where officials plundered city resources and broke the public’s trust. Even the Latino-led Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department continues to be a den of uncontrolled corruption and police abuse. The lesson is that nothing is gained by political movements and grassroots struggles for democracy that result merely in replacing corrupt white faces with corrupt brown or black faces. Local democratic movements for voting rights and representation will only be successful if voters closely screen viable candidates before electing them to office. Educated choices at the voting booth and consistent monitoring of the actions of elected officials will help to both prevent and uncover wrongdoing. Only with such a check-and-balance process can grassroots democracy truly be achieved and maintained. Page 3 Captain Baeza Bill Watkins aptain Martin Baeza sees positive changes and potential for improvement in our community. He is happy to be back in Hollenbeck and impressed, by a reduction in violent crime during his twentythree year absence. Captain Baeza’s main message to those interested in crime prevention: Get involved! Log onto the Hollenbeck Station website, find your interest, and click. Get informed on the crime hot zones, crime prevention methods, starting a neighborhood watch in your area, or joining an existing watch. Young adults (13-20 years) can become an LAPD cadet (www. lapdcadets.com) (213)486-0123, e-mail: LAPDCadets@lapd. lacity.org. C The Civilian Police Academy offers an eleven-week course for community members. Contact the Community Relations Office, Sergeant Minh Nguyen or Senior Lead Officer Joel Perez, (323)342-4130. The CPC page offers the opportunity to “build a lasting partnership with the Department, with the ultimate goal of reducing crime and improving the quality of life in our neighborhoods.” Find out more at: www. l apd online .org / holl e nbe ck _ community_police_station Bill "the Comet" Watkins is an artist and resident of Rose Hills. Get Involved! Hollenbeck Station www.lapdonline.org/hollenbeck_ community_police_station Soto Shifts from Industrial to Commercial Vic Chaubey T he Los Angeles Planning Commission,onNovember14, voted unanimously to recommend the USC student Housing project go forward on Alcazar at Soto, changing Soto from an industrial area to commercial. Modeled after the Figueroa corridor development in South Central, where USC pushed redevelopment with political backing, Soto’s commercialization will heavily impact the Hazard projects in Ramona Gardens. Some in El Sereno are supporting a Business Improvement District (BID) on Eastern and Huntington Dr., even though BIDs tend to be more about corporate money and less about protecting local business as on Figueroa in South Central, and on Sunset in Silverlake. Redevelopment often results in the demolition of public housing. How long will the Hazard Projects in Ramona Gardens last. The final decision will be made by the Los Angeles City Council in January. Page 4 Gangs Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo Pandillas del pasado que tratan de poner una curita temporal de esta actividad destructiva. Se necesitan recursos para fortalecer la estrategia de intervención del tratamiento farmacológico eficaz en relación con la alfabetización y capacitación laboral para romper este ciclo de vidas destrozadas. Desarrollar el potencial de estos jóvenes en peligro beneficiará a todos. El potencial humano de estos jóvenes tiene que ser rescatado y desarrollado. De lo contrario, su presencia crecientes y actividades ilegales continuarán amenazando el bienestar de todas las personas en la comunidad. Es nuestra responsabilidad de apoyar a un nuevo enfoque y poliza que se centra directamente en las raíces de esta enfermedad social que afecta a nuestra juventud. Una poliza de los programas de prevención temprana debe comenzar en las escuelas primarias donde los niños en riesgo pueden ser identificados por personal capacitado y desviado lejos de la futura participación en pandillas. Esta inversión en los recursos humanos jóvenes alcanzará resultados mucho mejores y permitirá a todos a progresar sin dejar a ciertos jóvenes desafortunado atrás. Para leer la versión completa de este artículo, visite la página www.latinopov.com/blog/ Continúa de la página 1 Continued from page 1 Developing the potential of muerte por disparos y las drogas, these endangered youths will y el número de encarcelados. benefit all. The human potential Del mismo modo, durante el of these young people needs período de prohibición de la to be salvaged and developed historia, las bandas étnicas or their growing presence and libraron batallas feroces y unlawful activities will continue mataron unos a otros, con el fin to threaten the well-being of all de satisfacer la demanda del público para el alcohol ilegal, within the community. y para tomar el control de su It is our responsibility to support oferta y enormes ganancias. a new approach and policy that Con el tiempo, la legalización y focuses directly on the roots regulación de alcohol puso a la of this social illness affecting our youth. A policy of early Developing the Desarrollar el prevention potential of these pr o g r a m s potencial de estos should begin in endangered youths the elementary jóvenes en peligro will benefit all schools where beneficiará a todos. at-risk children Latinos. can be identified by trained mayoría de estas pandillas a la personnel and steered away from quiebra. future involvement with gangs. En la actualidad, el nivel del This investment in our youthful consumo de drogas y los human resources will achieve beneficios, las armas y la much better results and will violencia, y el encarcelamiento allow all of us to progress without por delitos de drogas no leaving certain unfortunate violentos es en espiral hacia youth behind. arriba. Para empeorar las muchos jóvenes To read a full-length version cosas, están desarrollando alianzas of this article, log on to www. comerciales con los adultos en latinopov.com/blog/ Jimmy Franco is a retired LAUSD educator who writes at www.latinopov.com/blog/ Cultura Continued from page 1 that are elaborately decorated with pictures, colorful flowers, tissue paper (papel picado), and “Ofrendas” (offerings) which generally consist of favorite foods and items that were enjoyed by those returning souls while they lived. On a day when many other parts of East Los Angeles such as Plaza Olvera, Plaza de la Raza, and Mariachi Plaza, were also celebrating Dia de Los Muertos in brilliant fashion, local leaders, artists, and residents from the community of El Sereno collectively organized their own colorful and festive “Day of the Dead” celebration. or as it was officially titled: Dia de Cultura event. This colorful community celebration of Dia de Cultura was comprised of simultaneously using many areas of Huntington Drive to hold different venue related activities such as food, art, and musical entertainment. The focal point of this event was located just outside of Food for Less at the new community Parklet where a colorful and beautifully decorated “Dia De Cultura Community Altar” was on display and open for residents to bring pictures and personal items from their loved ones to share. This area also provided an ideal location for an Art Hub which offered to the community face painting, the coloring or creation of calacas/ calaveras, community vendors, and delicious food provided by Rounds Burger’s Food Truck and Jarritos Garden where soda was transformed into a refreshing concoction with lime, chili and orange slices. The evening was filled with a continuous flow of community pandillas en las prisiones y de los principales carteles de la droga, perjudicando la vida de cientos de miles de jóvenes y tendrá inevitablemente un impacto en los que lo rodean. Mandatos judiciales antipandillas y la policía arrastra consigo Jimmy Franco es un educador fuertes sentencias de cárcel son reitrado de LAUSD que escribe en las mismas medidas fracasadas www.latinopov.com/blog/ residents who were drawn out to by the fair weather, live music, and exciting atmosphere with many arriving ornately clothed with flowers and beautifully painted skeleton faces. Another facet to this community celebration offered local business owners along Huntington Drive south an opportunity to host their own alters so that residents could make their way along Huntington Drive and admire the creativity and personal details of the many different alters that were on display in front of their business’. These altars were left on display for two weeks and were culminated with a candle procession which visited each storefront from the El Sereno Library to the Huntington Glass store. The evening was climaxed with the historical and no longer used pedestrian tunnel that runs below Huntington Drive at Pueblo Avenue being transformed into an Art Walk Gallery. Hosted by two El Sereno resident poets, this Art Walk featured ten community artists and ten elaborately decorated alters which honored loved family members who have passed on. The dimmed yellow lighting and echo from the pedestrian tunnel provided an ideal environment for the reading of poetry as established community poets such as Gloria Enedina Alvarez, Abel Salas (Editor for Brooklyn and Boyle monthly newspaper), Luivette Resto (English Professor at Citrus College), and Dennis Cruz (Writer) captivated the emotions of the many listeners. This vivid and exciting Dia de Cultura event not only offered the community of El Sereno an enjoyable and fresh opportunity to walk their streets for a positive day of celebrating the death of loved ones but more importantly, it served as a peaceful unifier, providing residents with an atmosphere of safeness and unity. A very SPECIAL THANK YOU is offered to the caring community leaders and contributors who’s diligence and cumulative efforts were the key to the success of this event. They include the following: Sponsors: RED67entertains Liz Gonzalez, Annette Cruz, Council District 14, El Sereno Income Tax, Fernando Amaya (Las Casas Realty, Inc), Tico Signs, Greg's Automotive, William Amazing Pinata's, Tender Loving Covers, Pachanga's Bakery, Casita Del Pueblo, Desiree Aparicio Tax Prep Inc, Jarritos, Buena Vista Furniture, Charlies Trio, Food 4 Less, Portillo, Ruben Chavez, PMI Promotions Cell, and Veyo’s Party Supplies. OSTIA performed in front of El Aguila Bakery. VENDORS: Plaza de la Raza Child Development Services, Vivian's face painting, Sew Creepy, Sane2K Artist, Blinged out by Patty and Mystic gifts. PARTICIPATING ARTISTS: A.Net, Loraine Villareal, Albert Reyes, Andrew Cervantes, Cynthia Felix Balderrama, Alberto Ibarra, Samantha Herrera, SonJi, Lisa Almeida, Tony Snow & Marcos Alex Estrada. PARTICIPATING ALTER CREATORS: Alex Castro, CE, A.Net, Loraine Villareal, Susy Chavez, Samantha Herrera, Cat Abee, Huitzil and Nantzi, Lisa Tovar & Stacey Steffe. communitybeacon.tumblr.com Column El Gabacho 40 Years Later, Time For Another Walkout 40 Años Después, Es Tiempo Para Otra Huelga Since what motivates educators and politicians is the Average Daily Attendance (ADA) money collected for warm butts in school seats where no education takes place, I strongly support another Latino walkout. However, for this walkout to be something more than more wasted time outside of school, we need a clear platform of what the education establishment must agree to, to bring the walkout to an end. Creating Chicano Studies programs at UCLA and CSULA, as was done in 1970 to buy off the Latino leadership, will not suffice this time around. Either there is a clear and enforceable commitment to stop social promotion and institute pragmatic education by qualified teachers at the level where the students can actually benefit and progress… or the walkout will continue. The LAUSD daycare system must be closed once and for all. LAUSD's accommodation of mediocrity must be replaced with a system based on no excuses and a willingness to do what it takes to allow all children to reach their potential. The saddest fact presently pervading education policy in Los Angeles is the belief, held by too many Latino educators, that Latino students cannot really achieve academically. The hardest day in bringing about this sea change will be the first day we get serious about teaching all of our students and requiring them, and their parents, to be committed and accountable. After that first day, the job should get progressively easier in the course of the ten years necessary to clear out the culture of educational mediocrity tolerated in our schools, until all remnants of racist public education are gone. Dado que lo que motiva a los educadores y los políticos es la Asistencia Diaria (ADA) el dinero recaudado por medio colillas cálidos en los asientos de la escuela, donde no tiene lugar la educación, apoyo firmemente otra huelga Latino. Sin embargo, para que esta huelga sea algo más que mas tiempo perdido fuera de la escuela, necesitamos una plataforma clara de lo que el centro de enseñanza debe estar de acuerdo, para llevar la huelga a su fin. La creación de programas de Estudios Chicanos en UCLA y CSULA, como se hizo en 1970 para comprar a los líderes latinos, no será suficiente esta vez. Va a haber un compromiso claro y ejecutable para detener la promoción social e instituir la educación pragmática por profesores cualificados en el nivel donde los estudiantes realmente pueden beneficiarse y progresar...o la huela va a continuar. El sistema de guardería LAUSD debe cerrarse una vez por todas. La acomodacion del LAUSD de la mediocridad debe ser reemplazado por un sistema basado en que no hay excusas y haiga la voluntad de hacer lo necesario para que todos los niños a alcanzan su potencial. El hecho más triste que actualmente impregna la política de educación en Los Ángeles es la creencia, sostenida por muchos educadores Latinos, que los estudiantes Latinos no pueden realmente lograr académicamente. El día más difícil en el logro de este gran cambio será el primer día en que nos ponemos serios sobre la enseñanza de todos los estudiantes y exigiendolos, y sus padres, ser comprometidos y responsables. Después de ese primer día, el trabajo debe llegar más fácil en el curso de los diez años necesarios para borrar la cultura de la mediocridad educativa tolerado en nuestras escuelas, hasta que todos los restos de la educación pública racista se han ido. Community Beacon está en Community Beacon is online! línea! Para reflexionar con El To communicate with El Gabacho, Gabacho, vaya a visit communitybeacon.tumblr.com www.communitybeacon.tumblr.com POETRY: Danza Tlaltlacah, Eastside Cafe Son Jarocho, Poets Gloria Enedina Alvarez, Abel Salas, Luivette Resto, Dennis Cruz and Students from Citrus College Lit. English Class. El Sereno Tunnel Art Walk Gallery Sponsors: CD 14, Barrio Action, Bueno! Cup & Cakes, Mama Churro Y Mas,jeremyespinoza. com, El Aguila Bakery, Antigua Bread & Our Town El Sereno Magazine. ENTERTAINMENT: The Wilson High School Drum Line, Danza Mexica Cuauhtemoc, BlitzKat and Rundown Kreeps. Sound provided by Lincoln Heights famous night club THE AIRLINER. Academia Semillas Del Pueblo performed an Altar Blessing for the community Altar. BUSINESSES THAT DISPLAYED ALTARS: El Sereno branch library, El Aguila Bakery, Pecas, Hecho en Mexico Restaurant, D&D Video, Tico's Banners, Pay Day Today, El Vaquero Restaurant, Fashion Mart, Mama Churro Y Mas, Matthias TV Repair, US Awards & Trophies, Freddy's Beauty Salon & Sisa's Nails, Huntington Glass, & Aguilera's Barbershop. FLOWERS: Four local schools contributed hand crafted the flowers for the event and included: Phoenix Academy (special education), Riley High School (Mothers and Mother's to be), El Sereno Middle School (K.Y.D.S) and Wilson High School leadership program. Ray Rios is the President of the Hillside Village Property Owner’s Association. Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo Taller de Computadoras Gratis! Free Computer Workshop! Chris Sariego said the kids using the workshop he Society of St. Vincent de would get free shoes from Paul (SSVP) offices and thrift Shoe Palace as an incentive for store held the grand opening of academic achievement. their new Shoe Palace Workshop For over 100 years, the SSVP, in October. This computer has provided free programs and workshop provides children and services for the homeless and adults free tutoring, GED and ESL classes, and education on impoverished in regardless of internet use and resume writing. religion, race, gender, sexual orientation, handicap or “We love the Society of St. national origin. For more than Vincent de Paul,” said Shoe Palace VP John Mersho, “We 50 years, the Society’s Cardinal always want to be about helping Manning Center on Skid Row our community.” Lacey Flynn in downtown has enabled T homeless men to stabilize their life, regain self-sufficiency and find permanent housing and employment. The society operates an apartment complex to house homeless women and children in a safe environment, and operates a camp for children in the mountains. The society’s thrift stores in Lincoln Heights fund charitable activities. For free pickup by truck, to donate to our stores, call (800)974-3571. Farmdale Students Shine at Open Mic Estudianes de Farmdale Brillan en Micrófono Abierto O Photo courtesy of Maru n the evening of November 15, two hundred people gathered at the Farmdale International Baccalaureate World School to witness 50 1st through 5th graders read poems they had written in E n la noche del 15 de noviembre doscientas personas se reunieron en la Escuela Internacional Mundial Bachillerato Farmdale para presenciar a 50 1er a 5º grado leer poemas que habían escrito en Inglés y Español. Los niños leyeron poemas acerca de sí mismos y lo que era importante para ellos (personas, lugares, comidas, objetos, preguntas sin respuesta, etc.) Maru, madre de familia, dijo: "Yo estaba Page 5 L as oficinas de La Sociedad de San Vicente de Paúl (SSVP) y la tienda de segunda mano celebraron la gran inauguración de su nuevo palacio Taller de Calzado en octubre. Este taller ofrece a los niños y adultos de tutoría gratis, clases de GED y ESL y educación en el uso de Internet y reanudar la escritura. "Nos encanta la Sociedad de San Vicente de Paul," dijo el VP de Palacio de Zapatos John Mersho. "Siempre queremos ayudar a nuestra comunidad." Lacey Flynn, dijo que los niños que utilizan el taller obtendrían los zapatos gratis como un incentivo para el rendimiento académico. Durante más de 100 años, la SSVP ha ofrecido programas y servicios gratuitos para personas sin hogar y empobrecido sin importar su religión, raza, género, orientación sexual, discapacidad o origen nacional. Durante más de 50 años, El Centro de Cardenal Manning ha permitido a hombres sin hogar para estabilizar su vida, recuperar la autosuficiencia y encontrar una vivienda permanente y el empleo. La sociedad opera un complejo de apartamentos para albergar a las mujeres y los niños sin hogar en un ambiente seguro, y opera un campamento para niños en las montañas al norte de Santa Bárbara. Las tiendas de segunda mano de la sociedad en Lincoln Heights financean nuestras actividades caritativas. Para recogida por camión gratuito para donar a nuestras tiendas, llame (800)974-3571. English and Spanish. Children read poems about themselves and what was important to them (people, places, foods, objects, unanswered questions, etc.). Maru, a parent, stated,“I was excited to see that my daughter, Chelsea, at just 8 years old demonstrate such marvelous sensitivity, confidence in herself, and compassion in front of everyone. It’s great that the school gives this space for children to develop their artistic talents. Thanks to the dedicated teachers, that united families to enjoy listening to our children.” In an anthology of 60 poems passed out to all in attendance, Principal Saracho de Palma wrote: “Congratulations to all the young authors who shared their poetry and made this evening possible!” Four years ago, Mr. Juan Garcia introduced these treasured events at Farmdale after attending a poetry workshop, and now semiannually, families gather with a sense of pride to witness scores of children read poetry. He states “this is a perfect opportunity for students to show what they know about writing. emocionada de ver que mi hija, Chelsea, a sólo 8 años de edad demuestrar tanta sensibilidad maravillosa, la confianza en sí misma, y la compasión frente a todo publico. Es muy bueno que la escuela le da a este espacio para que los niños desarrollen sus talentos artísticos. Gracias a los maestros dedicados, que unieron las familias para disfrutar de escuchar a nuestros hijos." En una antología de 60 poemas que pasaron a todos los asistentes, Principal Saracho de Palma escribió: "¡Felicidades a todos los jóvenes autores que compartieron su poesía e hicieron esta tarde posible." Hace cuatro años, el Sr. Juan García presentó estos eventos atesoradas en Para más información sobre la Sociedad contacta Chris Farmdale después de asistir a Sariego,Teléfono: (323)224-6273 Blog: www.svdpla. un taller de poesía, y ahora dos blogspot.com web: www.svdpla. org De forma gratuita la veces al año, las familias se captación de sus donaciones al: 1(800)974-3571 reúnen con un sentido de orgullo de presenciar decenas de niños leer poesía. Él afirma que "esta 4938 Huntington Dr. South es una oportunidad Los Angeles, CA 90032 perfecta para que (323) 227-1933 los estudiantes Serving the El Sereno community for over 80 years demuestren lo que saben acerca de la escritura." Turning your home into a dressed-up “Winter Wonderland” this holiday season is simple. Choose the perfect Christmas tree, explore natural holiday décor and use indoor and outdoor lighting to dress up your home with holiday delight! Photo courtesy of Chris Sariego (323)245-9408 Backpacks for School Children — Students from 45 families received free school supplies and backpacks from the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Council of Los Angeles and the Specialty Family Foundation. For more information on the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Council of Los Angeles contact Chris Sariego, Director of Public Relations & Marketing, (323)224-6273 Blog: www.svdpla.blogspot.com Website: www.svdpla.org For free pickup of your donations call: 1(800)974-3571 Mochilas para estudiantes — Los estudiantes de 45 familias de bajos recursos recibieron mochilas con útiles escolares la Sociedad de San Vicente de Paúl en el Almuerzo de Premios Mochilas Regresando a la Escuela. NEWLAND HARDWARE Holiday Delight Celebrando Dia de los Muertos L a celebración de "Dia de calaveras, los vendedores Huntington Dr. en Pueblo Cultura" en El Sereno de la comunidad, y la comida Ave. se transformó en una incluyó comida, el arte y por Rondas Food Truck de galería de arte con diez el entretenimiento musical Burger y Jarritos Garden. artistas locales y diez altares que se ofreció de forma Un flujo continuo de elaboradas con decoración simultánea en diferentes residentes de la comunidad en honor a los antiguos áreas de Huntington Drive. fueron atraídos por el buen seres queridos que han El Día de los Muertos se tiempo, música en vivo, y fallecido anteriormente. La originó con la creencia un ambiente emocionante. iluminación de color amarillo mesoamericana que la Muchos vinieron ricamente oscuro y la acústica siempre muerte era el comienzo de vestidos con flores y caras un ambiente ideal para los una nueva vida y la partida de esqueleto bellamente poetas locales para cautivar de sus seres queridos no pintados. Los residentes las emociones de los muchos debe ser un duelo triste admiraron la creatividad y oyentes: Gloria Enedina pero algo que se celebra los detalles personales de Alvarez, Abel Salas, Luivette alegremente. muchos altares diferentes Resto, y Dennis Cruz. Los residentes añadieron en exhibición delante de ¡Gracias a Red67entertains fotos y objetos personales Huntington Dr. empresas, y todos los contribuyentes la de sus seres queridos en el que habían quedado en oportunidad de caminar por colorido y muy bien decorado la pantalla durante dos las calles para una noche de "Dia De Cultura Comunidad semanas, culminando con celebración, que sirvieron Altar" en la parte exterior de una procesión de velas como un unificador pacífica Food for Less. Era un centro visitando a cada tienda, en un ambiente agradable. de arte, ofreciendo pintura desde la biblioteca a la Ray Ríos es el presidente de de la cara, la coloración tienda Huntington Glass. la Asociación de Propietarios o la creación de calacas/ El túnel peatonal debajo Hillside Village Propiedad. Your local True Value has the tools, products and expert advice you need to get your holiday decorating done right. 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Page 6 Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo Return to Lincoln Heights he learned in Wood Shop at Lincoln. At age 24, he bought a home in Highland Park, married and raised 3 kids: 2 boys and 1 girl. B orn in Juarez Mexico, Mario Marrufo came to Lincoln Heights in 1967 at age three. He attended Gate Street Elmmentary, El Sereno Junior High and Lincoln High School, and worked as a Journeyman Cabinetmaker with skills At age 39 after a life changing event, he obtained a real estate license, and became one of the top agents at a Century 21 office. While visiting his mother, he made the decision to return to Lincoln Heights to focus on helping the Latino community. He got involved with the Chamber of Commerce, and met Steven Kasten, a prominent local figure and broker. They agreed to work together and in April, 2010, Kasten opened an office on N. Broadway and Avenue 24 where Marrufo became Sales Manager. He joined the Board of Directors of the Chamber, and was elected to the Neighborhood Council as business representative. In November, he joined the Lincoln Heights Optimist Club. He says, “Since returning to Lincoln Heights, I have been blessed…These days I feel it's time for me to give back to the community who has given me so much!” communitybeacon.tumblr.com Local Scholarship 2013-2014 Programa de Becarios 2013-2014 I n order to unite, prosper, and empower our community we must support our YOUTH in pursuing their educational goals. The El Sereno Community Coordinating Council (ESCCC) established the ESCCC Scholars Program to recognize and award excelling high school seniors who are committed to education and giving back to their community. APPLY NOW for our 2013-2014 Scholarship! Open to all high school seniors that reside within the 90032 zip code. If you would like more information or an application packet, please feel free to email us at [email protected] C comprometidos con su educación y retribuir a su comunidad. Solicite ahora nuestro Beca de 2013-14! Esta abierto a todos los estudiantes de secundaria que residen dentro del código postal 90032. Si desea más información o un paquete de solicitud, no dude en enviarnos un correo electrónico a [email protected] on el fin de unir, prosperar, y empoderar a nuestra comunidad debemos apoyar a nuestros jóvenes en la consecución de sus metas educativas. El Consejo de Coordinación de la Comunidad de El Sereno estableció el Programa de Becarios ESCCC para reconocer y adjudicar estudiantes sobresaliendo en último año de secundaria que están Symbol of Remembrance Robert Granados I n November, veterans were honored at the 4th annual Veterans Day Celebration at Lincoln High School in partnership the Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Council. President, Jasmin Morales lead the pledge of allegiance and, Robert Granados delivered an invocation. Inspiring speeches by Gilberto Rosado, Assistant Principal Ricardo Rosas, The ceremony honors those field deputy Jose Rodriguez who have unselfishly served were highlights of the day. their nation, and educates The Mistress of Ceremony, the youth enrolled at the Vera Padilla, a former school by connecting them teacher and career counselor with the veterans who at the school, alumnus, and attend. The school’s Army member of the NC deserves JROTC Color Guard, under praise for bringing all the the leadership of Master pieces of this celebratory Sergeant (Ret.) Gilberto puzzle together. Her neverRosado, presented the colors ending attempt to locate at the beginning. Student and invite veterans has been musician and marching rewarded with an increase band member, Gabriel in attendance of veterans of Carmona played taps during various eras. Amongst many the ceremony. Senior Class vets from the community, two World War II era veterans attended. The highlight was a special dedication and unveiling of a plaque honoring all veterans. It will permanently reside at the foot of the flag pole to honor those who served and provide future generations a reminder of the sacrifices in keeping our country free. Robert Granados is a graduate of Lincoln High, Los Angeles City College and California State University at Long Beach and is a Vietnam War veteran and an active member of the Lincoln High School Alumni Association, Our Lady of Guadalupe Rosehill Catholic Church and the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 1013. Happy Holidays! Símbolo del Recuerdo noviembre, Enhonoraron a se los veteranos en el cuarto celebración anual del Día de los Veteranos en Lincoln High School en conjunto con el Consejo Vecinal de Lincoln Heights. La ceremonia honra a aquellos que desinteresadamente han servido a su país, y también educa a los jóvenes conectándolos con los veteranos que asisten. El JROTC de la escuela bajo la dirección del sargento mayor (retirado) Gilberto Rosado presentó los colores. Músico estudiantil y miembro de la banda, Gabriel Carmona toco grifos. La presidente de la clase mayor, Jasmin Morales dirigió nuestro Juramento a la Bandera, y Robert Granados dirijio la invocación. Discursos inspiradores, incluyendo del sargento Gilberto Rosado, subdirector Ricardo Rosas, y representante de Consejo #1 Jose Rodriguez fueron lo más destacado del día. La Maestra de Ceremonia, Vera Padilla, una ex maestra y consejera de la escuela, una exalumna y miembra de la Junta Vecinal merece alabanza por juntar a todos para esta celebracion. Su intento de localizar e invitar a los veteranos se ha visto recompensado con un Photo courtesy of Vera Padilla aumento de la asistencia de los veteranos de diversas épocas. Entre muchos veteranos de la comunidad, dos veteranos de la era de la Segunda Guerra Mundial asistieron. El punto culminante de la ceremonia de 2013 era una dedicación especial y descubrimiento de una placa en honor a todos los veteranos. Se residira permanentemente en el pie de mástil de la bandera para honrar a los que sirvieron y proporcionar las futuras generaciones un recordatorio de los sacrificios de mantener nuestro país libre. (323)245-9408 Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo Page 7 experience. My wife Ellen Coaching and Loving it! great and I are thankful that our Mike Phillips H ello all. I am coaching in the pee-wee division at El Sereno Park this the soccer season. I am fortunate enough to be a co-head coach with my friend and neighbor, Steve Deyer. Both residents of the University Hills area, we have had children in the league for three years and have been coaching together for two years. Our daughters, Allie and Caleigh, have played soccer together for three years and are on our team, the Coyotes. My son, Thomas, plays on the Pumas in the division above us, against Steve’s son, Nolan, on the Dare Devils. Coaching brings back wonderful childhood memories of being at the park all day with my own father who coached for many years in Alhambra. In my time coaching, I have enjoyed the facilities, staff, and friendly neighbors who participate in the El Sereno Park sports program. I realize that not everyone has the hours available to coach, but I wish they could. It’s a neighborhood park offers sports programs year round, as I am able to coach other sports as well. I am always impressed by how the park fills with family and friends cheering their favorite player or team. Sometimes we forget how much it means to these kids to see someone cheering them on! I hope that you will come out and watch the Coyotes, Galaxy, Chivas, or El Sereno kids play some great soccer. You just might make a friend at the park. Colin Hay Shines at Luckman Bill Watkins D o you remember Men at Work from the 1980’s? How could you not recall the band that produced hits such as Down Under, It’s a Mistake, Overkill and Be Good Johnny? Writer and lead singer Colin Hay was fifty feet away from me, performing at Cal State L.A.’s Luckman Fine Arts Complex. After the show, I met him—and his wandering right eye, which he joked about in his performance. Who knew that a good portion of his show would be comedy? With his dry Scottish humor, he self-deprecated and audience-deprecated until we were all laughing at failures and pain. The result was Colin’s success: an easy-going, funny, incredible talent with a magical voice. Overall it was an interesting, fun show, full of tears and laughter as I recalled the boy I was, wanted to be, and should have been at the time Men At Work first hit radios Photo courtesy of Bill Watkins in 1982. Self-professed alcoholics, Colin Hay and I are linked by a regret for past stupidity and a commitment to entertain, inform and inspire others until we’re gray and old. —The Luckman Fine Arts Complex, 5151 State University Dr., www.luckmanarts.org (323)343-6600 Bill "the Comet" Watkins is an artist and resident of Rose Hills. USC Community Health Fair at White Memorial Alan Sanchez n October 13th the second annual Bridge to Health Community Health Wellness and Safety Fair took place at White Memorial Medical Center. Thanks to the valuable contribution of more than 50 health agencies and the USC School Pharmacy Students more than 500 people had access to free flu shots and body-fat analyses, as well as screenings for cholesterol, diabetes, O hypertension, and osteoporosis among others. Participants also had the opportunity to obtain information preventive health as well as education on breast self-examinations and screening mammograms as well as handed out vouchers for low-cost mammograms in recognition of breast cancer awareness month. The health fair could not have been possible without the USC University Neighborhood Outreach grant and the support of the White Memorial Community Leadership Council that helped Bridge to Health Community Health Fair grow into a well-recognized community event that benefits the residents of Boyle Heights, Lincoln Heights and El Sereno. Alan Sanchez, Program Specialist for USC Community Partnership, is responsible for managing the operations of several community outreach programs. ADVERTISE Your Business Contact: GEORGE CABRERA MARKETING DIRECTOR (323)245-9408 ADVERTISE Your Services Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo Page 8 LA32 Neighborhood Council Update Connie Castro I want to acknowledge our hard-working NC Board and Committee members who volunteer their time to support the mission of the LA-32 NC. We've been busy trying to innovate the NC by strategically planning ahead, including voicing our concerns by submitting Community Impact Statements to the City Council on upcoming City Council files that affect our community. We worked very hard to catch-up on pending issues, including submitting long overdue 2010-2012 financial statements. The LA-32 NC has sponsored several important events under the leadership of our Standing Committees. These include the LAUSD Candidate Forum, The Lummis Day Festival, and the 4th of July Parade by the Membership and Outreach Committee, the 3rd Annual El Sereno Kite Festival by Arts and Culture, the Healthy Start Faire by Education, the First Annual Business Meet and Greet by the Business and Economics, and numerous Community Clean Ups by Beautification. Our new website, www.LA32nc. org provides information on community events. You can email us to subscribe to the website and be automatically notified of upcoming events. In addition, through the site you are welcome to email individual Board members or the entire board directly with any questions or concerns. LA-32NC will address our financial statements and the upcoming fiscal year budget, prepare for the 2014 elections, and continue to address issues affecting our community. Lastly, I want to thank all of you, CD 14, and our amazing leaders, for your patience, understanding, time and efforts, for believing in our mission and in the great work that we can accomplish together. Connie Castro is President of the LA-32 Neighborhood Council. Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Council Update Nanci Rosas T his year has been a rewarding experience as President of the Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Council. I oversee a Board that has lived, worked and dedicated many hours to the community and is sensitive to the needs of all stakeholder issues. Doing small things, like planting gardens, or looking out for our neighbors is how change takes place and our community is made safe and healthy. I encourage all community members to volunteer, serve on a LHNC Committee, spend time at the Senior Citizen Center, read to an adult or child at the Library, encourage children to get involved in school activities, organizations, sports, music and the arts. Without community service, we would not have a strong quality of life. We develop and gain a sense of selfworth when we commit to our neighborhood. This year the NC Outreach Committee sought to continue to fund yearly holiday programs: A budget of $1,500 to place a plaque honoring our veterans at Lincoln High School and a budget of $1,500 for Halloween fun night, co-sponsored by the Lincoln Heights Benefit Association of the BID, which donated 4,000 Halloween bags, with over 2,500 children attending haunted houses and receiving Halloween candy bags. The Tree Lighting Ceremony is a community favorite with free Santa pictures, treats of champurado and sweet bread, and entertainment provided by the local students. The next big event is the Annual Holiday Parade and Festival to be held on Sunday, December 8, starting at 11:00 a.m. at the corner of Lincoln Park Ave. and N. Broadway with over 80 groups participating. Afterwards everyone gathers at Bank of America to celebrate, enjoy games, meet Santa, eat pizza and enjoy the entertainment. I hope to see you at these LHNC events. Get involved and visit our website: www.lincolnheightsnc. org. Happy Holidays and a Prosperous New Year! Nanci Rosas is a resident of Lincoln Heights and current President of the Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Council. El Vaquero Restaurante: A Taste of Guadalajara Martin Hernandez or Malaquias and Irma Vasquez their El Vaquero Restaurante is a dream come true. And future sites may be added to the ones in El Sereno and Alhambra. Let’s hope so because for anyone who has feasted on a hearty torta ahogada or the mole de espinazo con nopales made in the style served in Vasquez’s native Mexican state of Jalisco, it would mean more sitting room for burgeoning lunchtime crowds. When I first called Mr. Vasquez, he was polite but had little time to talk because he was “bien ocupado,” serving hungry lunchtime customers. The next day I called in the morning and Mr. Vasquez, still gracious but less busy, described how El Vaquero came to be. Vasquez grew up working at restaurants in Guadalajara and always wanted a place of his own. He and his wife emigrated to the U.S. in 1996 and he eventually found a found a good job with a nonrestaurant related company. However, he still had the urge to start his own restaurant and, with their savings and loans from family, the Vasquezes opened the Alhambra location. Eleven years later, Vasquez admits that while they were skilled at working in a restaurant they were not as skilled at running one. F 2 Free Tacos with purchase of meal (1 per family) The home-style meals recipes for traditional Jalisco dishes, many from Vaquez’s mother, from caldo de res to tacos de barbacoa dorados, from tostadas de cueritos to lengua en salsa verde, became popular with local Latino workers and word spread about the savory dishes being served at the tiny Fremont Avenue storefront. It became a magnet for those looking for a little taste of home and a home for their taste. The Vasquezes also honed their skills as entrepreneurs. The Alhambra location’s success lead to the opening of the Huntington Dr. branch about eight years ago, much to the delight of many. Name for a restaurant where Malaquias worked in Guadalajara, Tortas Ahogadas El Vaquero, their signature meal is the torta ahogada de carnitas. It’s a bolillo stuffed with pork and chiles, drowned (ahogada) in a tangy salsa and topped with a mountain of sliced onions. You will need a knife and fork to consume every morsel of this regional delicacy. The Vasquezes also serve burritos and tacos of carne asada (grilled beef), pollo (chicken), carnitas (pork), and lengua (tongue), along with pozole, combination plates featuring flautas, enchiladas and taquitos, and numerous kinds of tortas. Popular breakfast dishes include huevos rancheros and huevos a la Mexicana (only at the El Sereno branch) and on the weekends (at both locations) there is menudo. “If you can’t do something well,” Vasquez told me, “you shouldn’t do it at all.” Malaquias and Irma appear to be doing it very well. The proof is folks like me, who keep coming back for more. The Vasquezes also hire from within the community and are always ready to lend a hand when the community needs it. With tasty, affordable food from Guadalajara, what more could one ask for? El Vaquero Restaurante —4884 ½ Huntington Dr., (323)441-8536 —14 S. Fremont Ave., Alhambra (626)458-4546 Phone orders happily accepted. www.elvaquerorestaurante.com communitybeacon.tumblr.com Newly Elected LA-32 Members M aria E. Miranda (Lomeli) has lived in El Sereno for 24 years and grew up in Ramona Gardens Housing projects. She showed an interest in leadership and community involvement in her youth when she got involved in student council in grammar school. She graduated from Lincoln high school, worked as manager at Dodger stadium for nine years and the Public Health Foundation (WIC) for eight years. She has been a volunteer for Crenshaw Christian Center and Highways and Byways, and currently with Tender Loving Covers (TLC- a group that makes and donates quilts to homeless children) and is active with United Caltrans Tenants. For 21 years she has been happily married to Carlos Miranda with two children. For Maria, being on the LA32 NC Board gives her the opportunity to continue her involvement to make this neighborhood a place to love. G eorge Cabrera, Jr. is a long time resident of Hillside Village, El Sereno. He attended All Saints Catholic School, Wilson High School (Class of ’70), and worked at the family business, Sunset Printers, in Alhambra for 21 years. He has has worn several hats in the community: A parishioner at All Saints Church for 50 years, Retreat Captain for 12 years, Knights of Columbus for 18 years, Deputy Grand Knight for 1 year. Sponsored by the Greater El Sereno Chamber of Commerce, he raised $2,500 for the Bicentennial Parade, and finished 2nd place for El Sereno Honorary Mayor in 2005. Former partner and marketing director for The 90032 Voice and The Voice Community News, and currently for the Community Beacon. Advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association of ELA. Founding member of the El Sereno Veteran’s Monument Committee. Active in the Hillside Village Property Owners Association for 25 years, El Sereno Community Coordinating Council, and Sons of the American Legion (Alhambra Post No. 159.) He sits on the LA32NC Education Committee and wants to reach out to the educational centers and local businesses in our community. KYDS at El Sereno Middle School I nstead of hanging out on the street or watching TV, El Sereno Middle School students can join a drum line, play basketball alongside a college player, get intensive homework help, or create art. KYDS nonprofit organization provides free after school enrichment for students at El Sereno Middle School. We believe that after school programs, like the schools they serve, can become community hubs supporting and engaging students and families, local artisans, and local organizations. This fall we academic achievement has been one of our main focuses. We have developed math, writing, and science tutoring programs, as well as English language support. Recently, KYDS collaborated with Janice Gomez and Fatima Hoang of Summercamp Project Project, an El Sereno art collective. The duo put on a free print-making workshop for KYDS students who learned basic printmaking skills and helped answer the question “What is Art?” We hope to connect with other local artists for one-time workshops and a larger Spring mural project. Site managers Rafael Lopez and Kelly Thomas attended the El Sereno Neighborhood Council (NC-32) November meeting. Welcomed by the community, we are excited about future collaboration with the Neighborhood Council to create even greater opportunities for El Sereno’s youth. KYDS is always looking for dedicated volunteers to tutor or lead workshops. Interested? Contact [email protected] Community members like you provide local news. Contact us at (323)245-9408 Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo (323)245-9408 Breakfast Continued from page 1 each year, 30 full days over three years. Teachers are trained to teach students, preparing them for success in college and future careers. Teachers are not trained in handling and serving food. Cafeteria workers are trained to handle food and school cafeterias provide breakfast services for students in a sanitary-setting that can be more easily cleaned up. Another provision calls for improving the appeal of school meals such as increasing access to fresh produce through salad bars and the use of vegetables from school gardens and local farms. However, the implementation of the Breakfast in the Classroom program does not include salad bars, or fruit or vegetables from school gardens and local farms. A more accurate description is “in-classroom breakfast snacks”. The current breakfast offerings are high in calories, high in carbohydrates and high in sugar, exceeding 1/3 or more of the daily recommended amount of calories for children ages 5-13 years. According the LAUSD Food Services Division parents have the right to opt out of the Breakfast in the Classroom program. The program is expected to be implemented at all elementary and middle schools in 2013-2014, and at all high schools in 2014-2015. Teachers support students being provided nutritional meals in the cafeteria, by cafeteria workers and others trained in properly handling food, and not during instructional time. Amelia Velazquez is a resident of El Sereno. Desayuno de los huertos escolares y las de Comida los padres tienen el Continúa de la página 1 granjas locales. Sin embargo, derecho de optar por no tener clase cada año se pierden. Los maestros están capacitados para enseñar a los estudiantes, y los prepara para el éxito en la universidad y carreras en el futuro. Los maestros no están capacitados en el manejo y servir los alimentos. Los trabajadores de la cafetería están capacitados para manejar los alimentos y los comedores escolares ofrecen servicio de desayuno para los estudiantes en un entorno sanitario y se puede limpiar más fácilmente. Otra provision es mejorar la apelacion de las comidas escolares tales como el aumento del acceso a los productos frescos a través de las barras de ensalada y el uso de verduras la ejecución del programa el programa El Desayuno en la “El Desayuno en la Clase” no Aula. Se espera que el programa incluye barras de ensaladas o sea implementado en todas las frutas o verduras de los huertos escuelas primarias y medias escolares y las granjas locales. en 2013-2014, y en todas las Una descripción más precisa es escuelas secundarias en 2014"Bocadillos de Desayuno en la 2015. Los maestros apoyan Clase." Las ofertas que se sirven a niños comidas de desayuno nutritivas en la cafetería, por actuales del LAUSD son altos en trabajadores de la cafetería y calorías, altos en carbohidratos otras personas capacitadas y alta en azúcar, sobrepasando en el manejo adecuado de los mas de 1/3 de la cantidad diaria alimentos, y no durante el tiempo recomendada de calorías para de instrucción. niños de 5-13 años. Amelia Velazquez es un residente Según la Division de Servicios de El Sereno. Page 9 Educational Winds Abelardo Diaz M edia headlines that “John Deasy to Resign as Superintendent of LAUSD” were a well-planned scare tactic launched before the School Board conducted the Superintendent’s review and evaluation in October. the superintendent. Why is the superintendent treated differently from teachers? The answer is simple: the power of politics. Now, the district needs positive A number of events contributed to rumors of Deasy’s fallout. First, two board candidates backed by Deasy were defeated in the recent elections. Second, Dr. Jaime Aquino, Deputy Superintendent and right hand to Deasy resigned his post, expressing concerns that lack of support from the new board was making his job more difficult. Third, the fiasco of the first rollout of iPads to students in LAUSD, costing $1billion that could have been used for pressing needs at schools sites. leadership to build trust with Deasy has been the face of the pro-charter corporate educational reform movement since 2011—in favor of giving away new schools to for-profit charter operators. The board decided to extend Deasy’s contract for three more years although he did not meet his benchmarks and targeted academic goals. continue the academic success Deasy wants to use student standardized test scores to count up to 30% in a teacher’s evaluation, but the school board did not look at data to evaluate students, and parents, community Funding from teachers members. proposition 30 can help reduce the class sizes to acceptable levels, hire teachers and support personnel needed at the schools sites, reestablish early adult education education, and arts programs, and restore trust in the district. The challenge is to find a more productive way to and growth that includes all stakeholders. We need to focus on our students and public schools which need all the support and resources possible. Abelardo Diaz is a World Language National Board Teacher employed by LAUSD for 16 years. Mr. Diaz was endorsed by the UTLA in his bid for the District 2 seat in the 2013 LAUSD Board of Education elections. Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo Page 10 Soto Street Bridge Demolition: A Community Project Tom Williams T he Soto Street Bridge demolition and intersection construction has finally gotten funding, a contractor and a notice to proceed. At this point, there is no commenting on whether or not it should be done. It is real and will begin in a month. But residents should be provided some sense of participation in the process. I am opposed to the approach of the Bureau of Engineering, Department of Public Works, and the Board of Public Works, and I support the residents who will host this monster in their front yards and along routes to Huntington Drive Elementary and other commuter routes through the LA-32 NC area. We all will be subject to horrendous driving conditions for at least one year. Thanks to the LA-32 Neighborhood Council, the Board of Public Works and Bureau of Engineering (BoE) hosted two community outreach meetings. In the two week since the last meeting, silence. However, residents continue to press for participation and information. Impacts on Valley Vista apartments will start with the very first traffic diversion, planned as a single south-bound lane over the bridge. This will send east-bound commuters on north-bound lanes along the existing slip road to cross through a new signalized Huntington Drive South. Mission and Soto traffic will merge at the new signalized intersection under the bridge, causing a real mess with long lines of traffic waiting to go through the signals. Those going in and out of the Valley Vista parking entrance will be blocked. I hope they don’t have an emergency during the evening commute. A lot of drivers might try to take a free right turn onto northeastbound Huntington Drive South, making the quiet street a bypass lane for Huntington commuters. The former market on Huntington Drive South may become the contractor and BoE trailer park. With traffic and backups from the detours, we are “fortunate” not to have businesses along the south side of Huntington North. The several commercial properties in the area will be devastated. For more than 30 years residents have scrambled from bus stops across Huntington at Mission without pedestrian crossings. The BoE doesn’t know anything about neighborhood use of the MTA’s 252, 78, 79, and 378 buses and will leave stops and routes to the MTA. The MTA can’t do cross-walks and the BoE can’t do bus stops; residents get caught in the middle. The administration of Huntington Drive Elementary School was not aware of the BoE’s community outreach meetings until community members shared fliers. They said the BoE had contacted the school a few times but provided no real details. The BoE did not discuss student drop off and pickup habits with school administration, nor did they ask about school bus turnaround routes. These buses go to Soto via the Mission and Soto ramp. The ramp closure will force buses to Marengo where they will turn back to Soto and the bus parking area. This presents a problem for the afternoon pickup and commute through the area. Improvements to this process are as simple as inviting the community to monthly meetings with the BoE and their contractor, reporting on future activities, providing week-inadvance schedules and detour maps from now through January 2014. Noise and dust from the project will be significant, but noise shrouds and frequent street wetting and sweeping would help reduce it. The community would make use of large notice boards at the school and Valley Vista Apartments. Other possibilities include providing shorter school buses and turning circles for getting onto Soto, adding two flashing light crosswalks at Superior Court and at Tourmaline or Turquoise, and adding K-rail sidewalk protection for Valley Vista and for Huntington at Mission, southbound. This ain’t rocket science but construction does require some planning before it happens. Tom Williams is a resident of El Sereno who has worked with Parsons Corporation in Pasadena, the URS Corporation in San Francisco, and has spent a number of years in Dubai. He estimates he has prepared over 300 environmental documents and more than 40 major project studies. e y t a a d d i i d l l n o o a s h n s t co loan n e 14 0 r m 2 u y y a r yo p a u a br e e F k til ta n u ts n e ym a P No mmu o c g the ereno n i v r S Se of El nity s card t i d e ¡Se habla Español! ur cr ans o y e o t l l a sona solid Con and per 2445 Mariondale Ave Los Angeles, CA 90032 9am-5pm Monday-Friday 9am-2pm Saturday www.CalStateLA-FCU.org | 323-505-2600 All loans on approved credit. Apply between 11/1/13 and 12/31/13 for no payments ‘til February 2014 offer. Offer available on loans from other lenders. Rates, terms, programs and offers subject to change. communitybeacon.tumblr.com Developer’s Plans for Eastern and Lombardy Denied O n October 24 the development proposed for property at the corner of Eastern and Lombardy was on the City Planning Commission's agenda once again. The project, which called for a number of significant variances, required approval by the Planning Commission to move forward. Despite having received an extension from the Commission in August to step back and reconsider the project and to conduct further community outreach, developer Alvarado Banegas, requested another extension. This request was denied. Mr. Banegas was unable to present the Commission with revisions to the original plan, and he had failed to conduct outreach to the community during the more than two-month period initially granted. Additionally, at the October meeting, the developer's requests for a General Plan Amendment, Zoning Changes, and acceptance for the Mitigated Negative Declarations were each denied by the Commission. It is unknown at this time what plans Mr. Banegas may have for these sizeable hillside parcels, although community members provided ample feedback during community meetings and public hearings. Some residents have suggested a playground, exercise equipment, community garden, hiking trails and picnic areas would be well suited to the site, located within walking distance of a large residential community and heavily-used athletic fields. Randy Jurado Ertll: The Voice of Salvadoran America Tony Castro, VOXXI hen he was five years old, Randy Jurado Ertll left El Salvador just as its civil war erupted in 1980, thinking he and his mother were fleeing to the safety of the U.S. where he had been born. Instead, they arrived in a Los Angeles neighborhood terrorized by a gang war. “Escaping a civil war and landing in another is not what a five year old child expects,” says Ertll, an author and activist who has become one of the leading Salvadoran American voices in the country. “Yet again, nothing in life is easy.” Perhaps that is the mantra that has fuelled Randy Jurado Ertll through deportation as an infant, traumatic repatriation as a child and an emotional winding journey pursuing an American Dream fraught with tears, anger, frustration and, eventually, a growing peace of mind. Ertll’s story could be that of any Latino immigrant hoping for a shot at a better life in America today, and it is one he is sharing in his second book, The Life of An Activist: In the Frontlines, 24/7. The book officially came out in September, and Randy Jurado Ertll is actively promoting it and using social media to raise money to help finance a book tour. “Being an author and activist is no easy task,” he says. “It’s about making social change through the written word.” Ertll’s newest book, like his first, fills a special void. He is one of the few Salvadorans in America writing about the experience of his people, and he does so movingly. “There really isn’t any literature that our students can identify with,” says Ertll. “There really isn’t much for the new generation of Salvadoran Americans who’ve been born here or raised here in the United States.” Randy Jurado Ertll has also had W a unique experience given to few other Latino immigrants— being on the inside of the power structure, seeing how it works and now trying to change it for those following in his footsteps. He has been the communications director for former Congresswoman Hilda Solis, the spokesman for the Pasadena Unified School District ,and the executive director of El Centro de Accion Social, a nonprofit offering social service programs for low-income youth and seniors in the San Gabriel Valley. Ertll’s “immigrant” experience, though, is unique because he wasn’t really an immigrant when he returned to the U.S., but an American citizen ripped away from his homeland as a baby.“ (I was) deported to El Salvador as an eight-month old baby with my mother,” he says. “Immigration agents arrested my mother while she worked at a sweat shop in downtown Los Angeles.” But his mother was intent on her son reclaiming his birthright,and she worked virtually around-theclock in El Salvador while Ertll’s grandparents looked after him. “When I returned to Los Angeles at the age of five and not knowing English, it was a nightmare!” he recalls. “I suffered a lot. Eventually, I learned English and began to accept and learn the traditions and social cultures of the U.S…I became immersed by watching (the television shows) ‘Scooby Doo,’ ‘The Land of the Lost,’ and ‘The Streets of San Francisco.’” Now, still living in Los Angeles, Randy Jurado Ertll is perfectly situated to continue his work as an activist and writer. Find out more about Randy Jurado Ertll on his website: www. randyjuradoertll.com To read a full-length version of this article visit: www.voxxi.com/randy-juradoertll-salvadoran/#ixzz2gvazhPPw (323)245-9408 Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo Page 11 Mayor Garcetti Visits Local Chamber O Photo courtesy of Connie Ramirez n November 21, 2013, the Lincoln Heights Chamber of Commerce held its monthly luncheon at Luminarias restaurant. The speaker for November was newly elected mayor, Eric Garcetti. Mayor Garcetti had previously been a guest speaker, at a Chamber luncheon, when he was a candidate for the position of Mayor of Los Angeles. to the Mayor. The Mayor was very gracious and took time to speak and to take pictures with many attendees at the luncheon. What made this luncheon so special was that the Mayor came back to address our Chamber after being in office for only four months. It was also noted at the luncheon that the Mayor met with Chamber representatives on July 1, 2013, which was his first day in office. received an e-mail from Eric Garcetti to meet with him and other local Chambers at City Hall on July 1, 2013, at 10 a.m. Board member, Mario Marrufo, and I met with the Mayor with about 12 to 15 other Chamber representatives, at this July 1, 2013 meeting. What an impressive and positive start for our newly elected Mayor, Eric Garcetti. Respectfully submitted by Steve Kasten, Over 100 people attended the President, Lincoln Heights Chamber of Luncheon to hear, meet and speak On June 27, 2013, this writer Commerce. BUSINESS DIRECTORY ADVERTISE Your Business Call (323)245-9408 George Cabrera, Marketing Director ADVERTISE Your Services Page 12 Community Beacon|La Luz del Pueblo communitybeacon.tumblr.com