Gary Mendez

My History at Rio Hondo College: Gary Mendez

2011-12-01T15:39:00.000-08:00

Looking Back with Joy. After twelve years of service on the Board of Trustees at Rio Hondo College, I’m really beginning to look back at my span of service. For the last year, I’ve been looking back at my accomplishments, but post-election I’m looking back much differently.

I’m elated and filled with joy when looking back at my full span of time and experience at Rio Hondo from my days as a very young community activist, student, student leader and now as the most senior Governing Board Member. There have been so many positive, inspiring, and joyful experiences. Anything to the contrary fades into insignificance.

What matters(Alma Mater), what has always mattered is changing, transforming, the lives of people and families. Aiding in the realization of hopes and dreams is a wonderful mission that any public servant is privileged to perform. So much more to do, so many more people to aide.

I’ve also have had the privilege to teach local young people the art of Karate. Seeing fresh radiant smiling faces of three to fifteen year olds reminds me of my purpose in the community and at Rio Hondo. The future, the future of Rio Hondo stands before me. Throughout my service, these young people have given me the perspective to see ten to twenty years into the future and plan affirmatively. Serve today, prepare for tomorrow. Go Rio!

ALMA MATER MATTERS

Playwright & Dramatist Shelagh Delaney dies at 71 of cancer: Tribute to

2011-11-24T12:29:00.000-08:00

I was introduced to Shelagh Delaney by Morrissey, as most eighties youth were. She was best known for her play "A Taste of Honey", first performed on 27 May 1958, [9] is set in Salford, a city which Delaney regarded as a valuable resource for her writing. Shelagh wrote forthright in a sensetive style about controversial issues that were certainly not portrayed back in her day.

I love Shelagh's response to "what the critics say". She is more concerned about what the real people, working class people say. Ahh..truly inspiring. Ive adopted the like minded attitude toward critics, its what the real people say. The people who actually live in the community, challenging neighborhoods. The people who work day in and out, raise families, and care about community. These are the people whose opinion really count.

She was Brilliant, compassionate and witty. Morrissey said, "I've never made any secret of the fact that at least 50 per cent of my reason for writing can be blamed on Shelagh Delaney." Hence, so were we all.

Shelagh take a bow, as was the case on Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at the Music Box Theatre.

The Smiths "This Night Has Opened My Eyes" based Shelagh's "A Taste of Honey".

MORRISSEY! MORRISSEY! MORRISSEY!

2011-11-23T18:26:00.001-08:00

Well...ok. I didn't get tickets to other shows but this small intimate gig went on sale Tuesday at noon. However, the catch was you were encouraged to camp overnight to be in line in the afternoon. I didn't find this out till Monday late afternoon from my brother while driving back from camping in Yosemite. Well...I had the backpacking equipment in the car, I would arrive in LA in the evening, shit..why not.

Yes, sleept on Hollywood Blvd in front of the Fonda Theatre. Got my ticket at noon and finally went home.

I later found out it also went on sale via ticketmaster! Oh well.

MOZ Angeles!

ELECTION UPDATE: MENDEZ MAINTAINS LEAD

2011-11-18T14:07:00.000-08:00

Last Updated: 14:05 11/18/2011

Candidate Party Votes Percent
GARY MENDEZ NP 978 37.13
LIL RONNIE LAWRENCE NP 927 35.19
M G MACEDONIO NP 548 20.8
FRANK VASQUEZ NP 181 6.87

You Smell That?! You Smell That?! Smells like Victory!

Statement to Rio Hondo College Students and Friends (& Opposition)

2011-11-14T16:46:00.000-08:00

Students and friends, Im humbled by the people/voters of Area 4 in re-electing me to the Rio Hondo College Board for another four years. Im continually very grateful.

I would like to thank the students and supporters who had faith in my service by walking precincts and talking to voters in Area 4. Truly grateful. Thank you!

It’s never easy. I’ve been an Independent Public Servant for over twelve years beholden to NO political boss, groups of politicians or interest groups. I prefer this despite the tremendous opposing odds. Nonetheless, Im safe in the knowledge that my “bosses” are the people of my community and I’ve always conducted my service with this as the highest value.

As you may know, on this campaign I was vastly outnumbered, out financed 5-1, ganged-up on by politicians, and campaigned against by Faculty and other groups. This has been the mode of elections in my Area for over twelve years. The campaign I ran was humble (in many ways), strategic, efficient, effective and truly a campaign of the people. ( http://gary-mendez.blogspot.com/2011/11/politikate-do.html)

As a former student leader and community activist, I have a deep love for our college and would (continue to) endure harsh circumstance and criticism to see that my community and student are well served by Rio Hondo College.

This is demonstrated by my unwavering wiliness to let “bygones be bygones” after each election. I don’t hold grudges, never have. I go back to loving and caring for the people who oppose me (faculty & staff) so that they may continue to love and care about you. It’s really simple for me.

They say students “come and go” and I understand it’s hard to see what I’ve delivered for you, but allow me to demonstrate. The new and remolded buildings at Rio were initiated by a small group of board members of which I’m the only remaining member. Go Rio, Veteran’s Priority Registration, the South Whittier Education Center, and other initiatives were implemented in my tenure on the board.

The point is this…Im here on the Board to serve my community and the students of Rio Hondo. Being Independent, I get to choose and shape my service unbeholden to later report back to my community in election cycles. Thus far, my community approves of my service.

So, let’s roll up our sleeves, work together, and leave the campaigns behind and work to guarantee your success at Rio Hondo. GO RIO!

MENDEZ Wins: Ending with KICK to Opponents Vitals

2011-11-11T15:28:00.000-08:00

MENDEZ WINNER!

MENDEZ WINNER!

Gary Mendez 904
Lil Ronnie 895
Rio Hondo College, Whittier, CA.

Mendez wins with a final kick to out financed opponents Vitals. Bam!

I ran a campaign focused and disciplined on message, lean and efficient, and for all the right reasons: love for Rio Hondo College.

Rio Hondo College is fiscally sound! Every year for twelve years, I delivered a balanced budget, maintained a healthy reserve and controlled spending making Rio Hondo College one of the most Fiscal Sound community colleges in California.

As an independent candidate beholden only to the people in my Area, I entered this re-election campaign knowing I was going to be outspent (3-1) and with my opponents supported by politicians and outside special interest groups with questionable intent.

I stood steadfast and defended my fiscal track record and on the great things I delivered to my community, including the South Whittier Education Center.

Its tough being Independent but very much worth it. Im beholden to no groups or political bosses, only to the voters from my community who continue to maintain their faith in my public service. Im greatful to the people of South Whittier, Los Nietos, North Norwalk, and Santa Fe Springs.

New Raptor ID in Whittier.

2011-11-11T13:40:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at about 2:30 pm, I spotted a dark feathered raptor above Whittier Blvd and Hadley in Whittier. It was interesting to spot this one in what i think is away from food sources. I could not ID what exact species it was. Not a red tailed, for sure. Dark upper feathers and body with some brown and white in lower wings Hmm? Went to a couple of guides including Audobon but it can be a number of things. Tall Whittier pines where near which could be a nesting or perch.

POLITIKATE-DO

2011-11-09T12:46:00.000-08:00

Politikate-do(&jutsu) is as much about basic physics as it is about the spiritual aspect. Politikate seeks to make the weak equal to the strong, and the big equal to the small simply by using some basic concepts of physics. By using torques, momentum and stability in the techniques, and relatively small politico can effectively defend themselves from an attack by much larger politicos. Highly related to Aikijutsu & Kara-te, an art which also seeks to rob an uke of stability, Politikate incorporates many other martial arts as well, all of which contribute to the basic idea of unbalancing your uke by using their own energy against them. Equally important to making an uke unstable is retaining your own stability. A great deal of emphasis is placed upon the ability of an Politikatist to stay "centered." In terms of physics, this is the control over the location of your center of mass. The movement of the center of mass from within one's body to a point where that person is no longer in equilibrium is the reason why people fall down.

Newton's Laws
All three of Newton's laws can be applied to Politikate and the techniques therein. Lets take a look at them one at a time.

1) An object in motion tends to remain in motion.
A Politikateist realizes that an object moving in a direction will probably continue in that direction. A giant political thug(s) charging at you is not going to be stopped easily, so why bother stopping him? By simply getting out of the way, and avoiding the attack a Politikateist has already begun a technique. Certain techniques take advantage of the fact that a body in motion remains in motion. For the Timing-and-Breath throw, the uke is spun in a circle before an arm across the face halts their head's forward motion. Unfortunately for them, the rest of their body keeps moving forward and *plop* they fall to the ground.

2) F = ma.
Force equals mass times acceleration. Again, let us take the giant political thug(s) that are attacking. He/they have a great deal of mass, and depending upon his attack, a great deal of acceleration as well. So what must a Politkateist do? Many of the techniques in Politikate focus on manipulating joints (human body, da) in a manner that requires very little force. By focusing on these vulnerable points in the body, an Politikateist need only to apply an acceleration to a small mass (a hand) instead of a large mass (a body) to control his uke. By applying a wrist technique, the Politkateist can get away with applying a small amount of force. The rest of the uke will follow, or lose their wrist.

3) Every action has an Equal and Opposite reaction.
The techniques of Politikate are primarily concerned with redirection of movement, and thus there is very little actual opposition to forces. Politikate techniques to not strike blows or bodily move an uke around. The third law applied whenever a small Politkate tries to move a big uke. A small person cannot exert enough force to overcome his uke without also flinging himself halfway across the room. The small Politikateist can try and push the big uke over, but that uke's body will just push back with an equal force. The small Politikateist must therefore not exert direct force on his uke, but instead make good use of the other two laws.

Levers and Torques
Levers and torques are yet one more critically important aspect of the physics of Politikate. Many techniques make use of an ukes arm as a lever to exert a significant amount of torque to a shoulder or elbow joint. On the other side of things, an Politikateist also places himself to rob his uke or attacker of a lever to use against him. Placement of arms, legs and body are critical to performing techniques correctly by providing the appropriate levers for an Politkateist to apply techniques. Kaiten Nage uses the ukes arms as levers to apply a torque, and the Timing and breath throw shows the rotation of the uke's body around an axis in space.

Henceforth, Politikate-Do (& Jutsu) may allow one to overcome great politcal mass and demonstrates that Spirit amd skill may overcome the tyranny of political bullies.

F = ma - Force equals mass times acceleration

2011-11-09T12:35:00.000-08:00

Firestone-Redtailed Hawk Spotted above Norwalk.

2011-11-03T11:49:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, November 3, 2011 at about 11:35 am.m, while on my way to my afternoon tea at Starbucks, I spoted the young "Firestone" Redtailed Hawk above the 605. Yup, thats him. As I recall, certainly smaller than the adult ive seen before. It could have been the male adult but his wing span was not as wide as I remembered. He circled above and around the 605 near Firestone Blvd, ascended 20-30 feet in less than 7 seconds, widended his circle, and as I was reaching for my binoculars (dropping my camera) he shot at about 35 mph west along and above Firestone Blvd toward the San Gabriel River..lost. Wow, what speed.

Red Tailed Hawk’s Power

2011-10-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

"Red Tailed Hawk’s Power is further represented by the beautiful red color that comes with maturity. This is our reminder that wisdom takes time and is not something that is given, the wisdom of Red Tailed Hawk is something that must be earned. Red represents Power, Energy, and the Kundalini. The Kundalini is the Force that directs the flow of all other energy fields within the physical body. This Force lies dormant within each of us when we take up the ~Robe of Physical Life, and is thought to lie coiled at the ~base chakra~ (located near the base of the spine) and referred to as the ~Serpent Power. ~ There the Power lies sleeping until it is awakened via the Soul who begins the journey on the road of spiritual discovery and who is consciously acknowledging and incorporating their Life Lessons."

The San Gabriel River Wildlife Experience

2011-10-08T15:21:00.000-07:00

Often overlooked and underappreciated, the San Gabriel River is thriving with diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Where the SGR was a landmark commonly..

THE RIO HONDO RED TAILED HAWKS ARE FAMILY.

2011-09-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at about 3:00 pm, I spotted three soaring Red Tailed Hawks (RTH) over the 605/San Gabriel River near the Washington Avenue Bridge. They varied in size from wide spread larger RTH, to medium and small. Unfortunately, I did not have a spotting scope nor a camera with a long distance lense so I could make out any details.

As previously noted, I wasn’t sure if it was the same RTH spotted along the 605/San Gabriel River from the I105 up to the CAT Yard near Rosehills Road. However, I now suspect that it’s the same family with about a 5 mile range of territory, if not more. The San Gabriel River and the High Electrical Towers provide superb hunting and perching locations. The location this time was closer to horse stables which may provide a greater opportunity to hunt small mammals given the feed thats around.

I lost spotting them when CHP was wondering what I was doing. Luckily, I wasnt taken in for shoting with a camera, but he did want to see my I.D. (go figure?). LOL.

It's become more interesting. Its a family. I hope to study them more soon.

Rio Hondo Redtailed Hawk Spotted Monday 9/12

2011-09-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

On my way to Rio Hondo College on Monday, September 12, 2011 at about 3:45 pm, I spotted the Rio Hondo Redtailed Hawk in the same location over the 605 freeway near the CAT yard. He was flying low enough to spot his keen sharp face, his wings spread wide, and his bright copper red tail tilted directing him in a downward turn. Wow, he looked so big and in command of his spehere of space and air. After November, Im going to document him/her more.

Another Redtailed Hawk spotted on Friday, September 16, 2011 at about 12:45pm over the 105 freeway just after South bound 605 transition. Im really intrigued more now. A.I.'s would definitely interpreted this as another sign from above. Seriuous cause for study.

Ok, another, while at the UCLA Footbal Game on Saturday, September 17, 2011 at about 1:10pm I spotted another Redtailed Hawk flying over the parking lot north. Just spotting.

Rio Hondo College Board Considering Approval of Resolution Supporting Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Designations and the Creation of a San Gabriel Mountains National Recreation Area on Wednesday's Agenda.

2011-09-13T22:35:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, September 14 at the Rio Hondo Community College District Board of Trustees, Looking forward to introducing my sponsored resolution on a much beloved subject: the San Gabriel Mountains & Rivers. This is a step for Rio Hondo College in embracing our local environmental responsibility. I'm hoping and working towards intergrating environmental studies and consciousness into our subject related college programs. The vision is to have courses on the San Ganriels, San Gabriel River, Forestry, and on environmental responsibility. GO RIO!

PASSED UNANIMOUSLY - WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2011

Charles Bradley is a Beautiful Man!

2011-08-31T21:40:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, August 28, I took a trip to Echo Park to hear Charles Bradley, the Screaming Eagle of Soul, and the Menehan Street Band play at the Echo. Dam it was good. Charles’ music reaches straight to my heart and soul.

I arrived early to find out it was going to start two hours from what I expected. So, I looked for somewhere to hang. While walking about, I ran into Charles walking the same direction and greeted him. He took the time to stop and chat about things. We talked about the hurricane and he mentioned how he was worried about his Ma in New York. Man, he was worried about his mom and shared that! He is such a nice, humble, down to earth and pleasant man.

His 60-70's soul revival genre and his lyrics about his personal experiences are so relevant today with the struggle that many people are going through in the U.S.

When he took the stage and he put so much emotion and energy in his singing that you knew it had meaning...very deep soul. The interaction I had with him and with his incredible performance, it’s easy for me to say that Charles Bradley is a Beautiful Man.

Moz Mex Tour

2011-08-30T12:30:00.000-07:00

"In Mexico, I went for a walk to inhale the tranquil, cool, lover's air"

I was informed that a Mexico Bus Tour is being planned for Moz's Mexico gigs traveling from Monterrey, Guadalajara, Puebla and Mexico City. I thought it was cool and sounds interesting enought to share. My contact says that they will meet-up in Monterrey, Mexico a day before the gig with a dinner meeting and taking a well-guided and safe chartered bus to Guadalajara, Puebla and then to Mexico City. He says that a Mexican Federale has been secured for security and safety of tour passengers and he (tour organizer) will serve as an interpretor for the group. The package includes Hotels beginging in Monterey and at all tour stops and ending in Mexico City. He's not sure of arranging flights at this time, but certainly plans the Chartered bus, security and the hotels. The prices are being worked out.

This trip sounds great and Ive asked to put me aside a slot.

Rio Hondo Red Tailed Hawk (RHRTH)

2011-08-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

Over the years, on my trek to and from Rio Hondo College, I've noticed a Red Tailed Hawk patrolling his/her area over the 605 from the CAT Yard down to the Beverly Bridge. On occasion, as time permits, I pull over in front of CAT and along its perimeter road, pull out my spotting scope, and watch it circle and glide in flight. I wonder if it’s the same one, since their life expectancy is 21 years in the wild, it could very well be the one I first spotted over 10 years ago in the same place.

Two days apart, I spotted another one for the second time along the 605 from Slauson to Florence. Has the Rio Hondo Hawk expanded its territory or is it a different Hawk? I don’t know, I didn’t pull over this time. Perhaps I’ll find a free day or two to spot both territories and see if I can solve this.

In March, on Catalina Island over Cotton Wood Beach, I spotted two playing and I was fortunate to spend 30 minutes watching and listening to them play. I had an eagle whistle and tried to catch their attention but it didn’t fool them, only scarred the Ravens. I took some pics but cant find them.

I don’t know if anyone has recorded and tracked the Red Tailed Hawks of Rio Hondo?

The sky is Hawk’s realm, and through its flight it communicates with Heaven and the Great Creator Spirit, and conveys that knowledge to earth: Hawk medicine unites Heaven and Earth. This powerful bird can awaken the visionary within you, and lead to your life purpose. It is the Messenger, and when it shows up pay attention: there is always a message coming. Hawk helps us to not only be aware that we are receiving a message but how to interpret it. The realm of symbols is also the realm of Hawk for Hawk is able to soar high above the earth to soar on the breath of Spirit, to commune with Spirit and thus understand through the intuitive level what the message means and what can be done to move forward in life.

Serge Gainsbourg Tribute Weekend! "vie héroîque"

2011-08-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

This is a very special occasion, a Serge Gainsbourg tribute weekend filled with his music and the long awaited film "Gainsbourg, vie héroîque" (Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life). I’ve been waiting for this film to be shown in Los Angeles. It was shown once, while I was out of town. It’s a rare occasion indeed for this Francophile who loves French 60's Pop and La Nouvelle Vague (French New Wave Cinema).

I admire Serge a great deal and consider him one of my ALL TIME heroes. Yes, he's provocative, lascivious and over all edgy but who isn’t? If your not, your either lying or live a very boring life. Ahh..This is gonna be good, entertaining, and glorious!

Ok so..

Friday, August 26 8:00pm at Cinefamily on Fairfax is the FREE SNEAK PREVIEW: Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life (w/ live set by Paris Loves L.A.!)

Saturday, August 27, 6:15 pm, at the Cinefamily on Fairfax Gainsbourg And His Girls (08/27, 6:15pm, DIRECTOR IN PERSON!)

Sun., August 28, 7:00pm Hollywood Bowl, Serge Gainsbourg Tribute.
A musical tribute with people like Beck and other kickass artist.

Rio Hondo College Resolution Protecting, Preserving & Expanding the San Gabriel Mountains

2011-08-24T16:53:00.000-07:00

I’ve submitted this resolution for consideration as an item on the Rio Hondo Community College District Board of Trustees meeting agenda on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 thereby establishing a partnership with the “San Gabriel Mountains Forever” campaign to preserve, protect and expand the wilderness, wild and scenic rivers in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Rio Hondo College has been an environmental leader with our Environmental Technology program, our awards for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for our new buildings, awesome Geographic Information System (GIS) thanks to my buddy & Guru Warren Roberts, our forever resilient Wildland Forest Service Crew 77, and the Go Rio program that has already reduced significant car emissions.

Now,I’m proposing that Rio Hondo College take a on a more significant role in being an educational environmental leader when it comes to our local mountains, rivers and streams.

I envision our various programs collaborating on, educating, and incorporating the San Gabriel Mountains in what we do at the college.

So, I hope my progressive colleagues will see the significant benefit our College, students, staff, faculty and administration will receive by this partnership and in becoming more active with our local environment.

RIO HONDO COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT RESOLUTION SUPPORTING WILDERNESS AND WILD RIVER DESIGNATIONS FOR THE SAN GABRIEL MOUNTAINS

WHEREAS, “San Gabriel Mountains Forever” is a partnership of local business owners, residents, faith and community leaders, recreation groups, health and social service organizations, and conservation groups who have come together to protect wilderness and wild and scenic rivers in the San Gabriel Mountains; and

WHEREAS, The San Gabriel Mountains Forever (SGMF) campaign is presently working on twin goals to: 1) Expand wilderness and wild and scenic river designations in the San Gabriel Mountains. 2) Establish a new San Gabriel Mountains National Recreation Area (SGMNRA); and

WHEREAS, the spectacular San Gabriel Mountains are the iconic landmark of the Angeles National Forest. It is Southern California's most accessible and popular "backyard" for millions who visit its clear and cold rivers, and its tranquil and panoramic vistas, as viewed from the campus of Rio Hondo Community College. The Angeles National Forest is also an irreplaceable natural resource that gives Los Angeles County more than 70% of its open space and provides our region with drinking water and clean air; and

WHEREAS, it is in the interest of the Rio Hondo Community College District to preserve nearby open space and wild areas for the protection of our region’s mountain vistas, air quality, water quality, places for solitude, vast recreation and educational opportunities; and

WHEREAS, “wilderness” designations have been shown to increase property values and attract new residents, thereby generating substantial economic benefits for nearby communities through local employment and tax revenue; and

WHEREAS, “wilderness” and “wild rivers” designation would protect areas that encompass steep mountains, winding canyons, free flowing rivers, and rugged desert landscapes, including the proposed Magic Mountain, Pleasant View Ridge, Sheep Mountain, Cucamonga, and nearby West Fork wilderness additions and eligible wild and scenic rivers; and

WHEREAS, protected public lands will provide local residents, students, faculty, staff and visitors with opportunities for many recreational activities including hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, photography, camping, orienteering, wildlife viewing, scientific research, and nature study; and our local mountains, plans to close down and reduce capacity and hours at scores of recreational facilities throughout the San Gabriels;

WHEREAS, THE U.S. Forest Service Crew 77 Roadrunner, a Type II hand crew formed in 2001 as a joint venture between U.S. Forest Service and Rio Hondo Community college, stands ready to protect and preserve the San Gabriel Mountains and Angeles National Forest; and

WHEREAS, Rio Hondo Community College District shall coordinate among its various departments and programs to actively participate in the partnership and educate students, staff, faculty and area residents on the benefits of preserving and protecting wilderness and wild and scenic rivers of the San Gabriel Mountains;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE RIO HONDO COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES hereby forms a partnership with “San Gabriel Mountains Forever” to protect wilderness and wild and scenic rivers in the San Gabriel Mountains and to urge Congress to designate new “wilderness” and “wild and scenic rivers” areas in the San Gabriel Mountains and to provide for the expansion of recreational opportunities to promote public health and education.

Rio Hondo College - No Class Cuts! Holding the line.- Whittier Daily News

2011-08-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

Community college, CSU chancellors predict more cuts and higher fees - Whittier Daily News

Rio Hondo College is one of the ONLY community colleges in California that has NOT cut classes, furloughed employees, laid-off faculty & staff, nor cut services and programs. Why? We saved reserves, practiced fiscal discipline, and kept our administration lean as the impending budget crises approached. The crisis was no secret but we had to prepare, we did and now we are able to offer more classes and services than most community colleges.

We are fairing very well compared to other community colleges, local schools and cities. Little Lake School District laid-off a great amount teachers and staff, increased class size, cut programs and services, and increased the cost of children’s school lunches. The City of Santa Ana has cut so many employees and residential services that they have even cannibalized their Community Developed Department seizing funds to pay debt.

At Rio Hondo College, due to our fiscal preparedness and responsibility, we were able to hire 13 faculty and 35 staff in 2011 to serve students. In addition, our $300 million dollar building program has employed over 300 local skilled-workers and professionals to build our new facilities.

Things may get tougher, but we will be diligent, prudent and discilpined in the coming budget cycles. It comes down to our mission, serve students.

First Day of Fall 2011 Semester at Rio: Information Booth

2011-08-22T20:47:00.000-07:00

Volunteering in the Information Booth on the first day of the semester is always a great experience. There were so many new students in need of information. I made sure to educate students on the GO Rio bus program. Many questions. Poor students had to stand there and here my speeches on services and stuff. Great time! Get on the bus! Go Rio!

In Support of Lybian Rebels & thier Struggle for Unity: Radio Clash!

2011-08-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

Rebels 99, Home Guard 44
I have faith that Lybia will Unite and form a transitional government as they errect a democratic system. I know these endeavors are not easy, but Lybians want this and will build it. Bettawfeeq بالتوفيق!

Radio Clash
(The Clash)

This is Radio Clash
Stealing all transmissions
Beaming from the mountaintop
Using aural ammunition

With extreme prejudice
On a terminator mission
This is Radio Clash
Consider your position

Step it up, get down low

Breaking news flash
Assassination
The whole country has been shot!

Eagerly awaiting illumination
In the Ministry of Whitewash

Wait, wait
Don't switch off the death
Yes, we have the latest score
Liberators 101 and Home Guard 44

This is Radio Clash
And we count your thoughts
When lightning splits the sky in half
Sharper than a sword

And in the thundercloud
You see another cloud
Bones as big as sticks
Even angels were in hell on the morning of the sixth

Like buckets of venom in (????)
They've got a master plan
You build walls over there
And we'll come and knock 'em down

And he reaches the other side first
Gets a job in the dirty old town
And he reaches the other side first
Gets a job in the dirty old town

Dont rush all at once, neither

This is not free
This is not free Europe
No, no, no, no, no
Nor an armed force network

This is Radio Clash
Stealing all transmission
Beaming from the mountaintop
Aural ammunition

A riggy diggy dig dang dang

This is Radio Clash
Stealing information
By his will as a (???)
Use careful confirmation

Bribery, extortion
Legal legislation
Security is life indeed
Accept no other explanation

This is Radio Clash
On pirate satellite
Orbiting your living room
Everybody hold on tight

Rio Hondo Breaks Ground for the El Monte Education Center

2011-08-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, August 17, 2011, we finally broke ground for Rio Hondo College’s El Monte Education Center that will be ready to serve students in two years. Im very excited! It took time, patience and effort to negotiate with the City of El Monte, and at times the project was uncertain, but that has past and now we have a site.

Over six years ago, the Board of Trustee’s work diligently to select communities to host a “College Center”. South Whittier being geographically the furthest community from the Main campus was a sure host and El Monte for its population density.

El Monte was the first to host a "College Center" over ten years ago when it was on Valley Blvd and it’s great to see El Monte have a Rio Hondo presence again.

Go Rio Student Transit Program MOU Approved by Norwalk City Council with the Norwalk Transit System.

2011-08-16T22:00:00.000-07:00

Tuesday night, August 16, 2011, I attended the Norwalk City Council Meeting to speak on Council AgendaItem 13; Go Rio! Transit Program MOU with Norwalk Transit System.

The Norwalk City Council Approved Unanimously the MOU with Rio Hondo Community College District for the Go Rio Public Transportation Program continuing service to students and residents.

The Council had various questions and concerns regarding the recent fair increases and whether Rio Hondo was going to pay for the increases the Council recently approved. Mr. James Parker, Transportation Director, very clearly reported that Rio Hondo has been a partner for over five years and that the MOU contains language that responds to fair increase and that the MOU doesn’t not create a special route but rather utilizes existing routes. The City Attorney also informed the Council that the MOU pays (in advance) fairs at the established rate set by council.

The Council further asked how the City will know how many people will use the service to be sure that the City is being adequately compensated. Mr. Parker responded that the new "TAP" card and its technology collects data instantly and reports can be generated daily, weekly or monthly.

I was given the opportunity to speak on "Open Comment" and extended Rio’s deep appreciation and gratitude for the partnership created over five years ago and expanded on the many benefits of the program: 1) Greater access to Rio Hondo for residents of Norwalk; 2) decreased demand for on-campus parking; 3) decrease in auto emissions-pollution; 4) making college more affordable by utilizing public transit; and 5) a greater environmentally conscience student.

I want to thank Vice Mayor Kelly, Councilmembers Rodarte, Vernola, and Shryock for approving the item and continuing the service.

Join me in Protecting & Expanding the San Gabriel Mountains!

2011-08-15T20:43:00.000-07:00

Here come the Gabriel lads and lassies from the commonplace orange groves, to make love and gather ferns and dabble away their hot holidays in the cool pool. They are fortunate in finding so fresh a retreat so near their homes. It is the Yosemite of San Gabriel. -Steep Trails by John Muir.

I frequently hike, backpack and camp in the San Gabriel Moutains and absolutely love it. It'so close and accessible. It is always there for me when I just want to leave the concrete jungle and mediatate on nature. I love the SGM so much that I want to protect and expand the wildreness for future generations.

Living in Los Angeles County, one can not avoid the majesty of the San Gabriels, especially on a clear day. We are fortunate that we have sea, desert and the Mountains.

Join.

San Gabriel Mountains Forever is a partnership of local business owners, residents, faith and community leaders, recreation groups, health and social service organizations, and conservation groups who have come together to protect wilderness and wild and scenic rivers in the San Gabriel Mountains.

The San Gabriel Mountains Forever (SGMF) campaign is presently working on twin goals to

1) Expand wilderness and wild and scenic river designations in the San Gabriel Mountains.

2) Establish a new San Gabriel Mountains National Recreation Area (SGMNRA).

The spectacular San Gabriel Mountains are the iconic landmark of the Angeles National Forest. It is Southern California's most accessible and popular "backyard" for millions who visit its clear and cold rivers, and its tranquil and panoramic vistas. The Angeles National Forest is also an irreplaceable natural resource that gives Los Angeles County more than 70% of its open space and provides our region with drinking water and clean air.

Join:
http://facebook.com/sangabrielmountains

http://www.sangabrielmountains.org/

VINDICATED - DISMISSED

2011-08-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

Im an Outdoorsman and being in the Outdoors is a great part of my life and soul.

In 2010, I was accused of carrying a “switchblade”, and having an unpaid speeding ticket, upon my return from a backpacking/camping trip after having dinner at Maggie’s Pub in Santa Fe Springs.

In July 2010, the traffic ticket was paid and the case on “suspicion of carrying a switchblade” was dismissed by the presiding Superior Court Judge. At that proceeding, the District Attorney (DA) moved to dismiss the case and stated that he had inspected the knife in question and said that it was clearly not a “switchblade” and was instead a legal folded camping knife. The Judge agreed and granted a dismissal stating that “the Whittier Police Department has NO Business redefining State Law on what is a “switchblade” and what’s a legal folded camping knife”. I was Vindicated!

It has been a long tradition in my family to commune in nature. The camping knife is a great part of my outdoors ethos. As an American, I don’t see why I need to change that.

The California Penal Code Section 653k is very clear on what is a “switchblade” and what its not. The code states a ““Switchblade knife” does not include a knife that opens with one had utilizing thumb pressure applied solely to the blade of the knife or a thumb stud attached to the blade…” The Law is very clear, there is no ambiguity. I just don’t see how the Whittier Police officer could have misinterpreted the law. It makes me wonder.

I have since returned to my hiking, camping, backpacking and the outdoors lifestyle.

However, my political opponents continue to portray me as a “switchblade carrying cholo”. Two have promised to play the dirtiest campaign yet seen in our community.

I can’t stop them and they know thier wrong. That’s politics and I will do what I do best: fight for justice and be resilient.

Go Rio Goes TAP

2011-08-10T22:00:00.000-07:00

The Board approved the new innovative state-of-the-art smart chip technology Transit Access Pass (TAP), a new buss pass for Rio Hondo College students that will be honored by Foothill Transit, Metro, Montebello Transit and Norwalk Transit.

We have come a long ways since my first initiative to start a public transportation program for Rio Hondo College students. Since then, we have created partnerships with over six transit agencies to increase access for our students.

I remember, as a Rio Hondo student, going to the MTA hearings to testify on bus scheduling and for increase hours for evening students. Back then, the last bus left Rio Hondo at 9:00pm but our classes ended at 9:55 pm. So, a group of us trekked down the hill through the cemetery and miles home.

Sexual Battery Suspect Apprehended at Rio Hondo College.

2011-08-09T16:42:00.000-07:00

On Friday, August 5, 2011 quick acting Rio Hondo staff activated the electronic emergency notification system to all students, staff n faculty to be on the look-out and report a sexual battery suspect on campus.

On Monday, August 8, 2011 the suspect was apprehended and arrested. The Alert System lead to the apprehension of the prepetrator by the Sheriff's Department. Kudos go to Susan Herney, John Ramirez, George Lopez and our security staff.

British Sea Power at Troubador Hollywood

2011-04-09T19:39:00.000-07:00

Yes, Nature is my Cathedral and BSP was our choir-band tonight! I was looking for some inspiration to call me into Spring and BSP did that. I love BSP's music and thier environmental conscienceness. When Im on a backpacking trip in the High Sierras or standing on a clif overlooking the Great Pacific Ocean..BSPs music comes to mind. And thier music inturn reminds me and takes me to the Great Outdoors when stuck in the drab city.

The Set at the Troubador was extensive and brilliant. The boys were in top form and demonstrated thier musical acumen.

BSP...thank you very much for the inspiration..cheers!

Empowering People

2009-10-22T14:15:00.000-07:00

When you engage in empowering people you should never expect anything back. When you're involved in this you must find the passion to do it and be content in it. At times, I seems selfish to have the passion because it feels good. However, the empowerment will lift-motivate people and help them take thier course.

It could be something as small as showing them something infront of thier face that was not so apparent to them. It could be something as large as helping them carry the banner of thier cause.

Yes, at times people who empower others die pennyless but what else is thier to die for.

Decisiveness: sen sen no sen

2009-10-22T13:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been studying and practicing the concept of sen sen no sen in a realm outside of martial arts and its really takes a keen sense. Fudoshin and sen sen no sen go hand in hand and the right balance is a challenge. My sense of intent has certainly been developed over the years which has been an asset today. I could only imagine that it will improve in the future with more practice.

I am putting these skills into play in my daily and public life which may prove to be effective, efficient, and invaluable.

We shall see.

Above video applies

Face Marred By Dust & Sweat

2009-10-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

I cant help but put myself into the fray of things. I especially enjoy interrupting the selfish horders who deceive the people. I frequently ask myself why I do it and I always get the same answer...because I must.

"The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause who at best, if he wins, knows the thrills of high achievement, and, if he fails, at least fails daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat."

We Are Human After All.

2009-07-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

What it comes down too in the final analysis is that we are all humans with faults. Our experiences create who we are despite how perfect we want to become or pretend to be. It’s my philosophy to try to understand things I'm unfamiliar with and be compassionate toward people and all living things. Who am I to judge? When reduced to base human beings its easier to understand and appreciate life (& of others. I'm just another flawed human being given the gift of life.

US News Block of Iranian Protest

2009-06-28T13:48:00.001-07:00

I dont know which is worse, Ahmadinejad's forced news black out of the Iranian Protest or the US News Agencies obession with Michael Jackson. How pathetic are we? I'm ashamed for the News Services.

I Stand in Solidarity with Iranian Protestors in Tehran

2009-06-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

I'm inspired by the great courage of Iranian Protestors who are attempting to seize their countries future.

The progressive, young people and women of Iran have the collective will to change the course, make their government more reflective of who they are, and bring Iran into the global community.

We know that this movement will take great sacrafices and our hearts weigh heavy for you.

They should know that people around the world and from Santa Fe Springs-Whittier California support them in their struggle.

This is the time. This is the place. We are waiting in anticipation.

LA Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

2009-05-23T21:59:00.000-07:00

Yes, another pleasant visit to the LA Arboretum on its Annual Garden Show. As Wilde would have put it, there were so many people I couldnt see the flowers & trees and, at times, so many flowers & trees I couldnt see the people which is worse.

Regardless, It was a wonderful day. As you may know, there is great personal value in enjoying the Arboretum and Gardens. Even the great Musashi Miyamoto later found the peaceful calm and centering which nature gives to us.

So Kiss My Arse if you dont like a man who appreciates flora. Calm...centering.

SF Botanical Garden at Strybing Arboretum

2009-04-20T13:54:00.000-07:00

There are few things I enjoy more than a Botanical Garden in nice sunny breezy weather. Ever more, a blooming garden near it peak is delightful. The SF Botanical Garden at Strybing Aboretum is spectacular with its grand trees, fragrant flora and ocean breezes. I was particularly fortunate to enjoy the bloom of the camellia japonica and magnolias.

Karate Exam-Shinsa; Tiny Tots Pass!

2009-04-06T16:13:00.000-07:00

I'm very proud of my tiny tot (3-5 yrs) students who recently tested and were promoted to higher belts. I began by asking them if they wanted a quick review before the test and they all said in one voice "NO, now". They exhibited a steadfast discipline and focus. I was incredibly impressed with their demeanor. They didn’t complain once or speak a word out of turn. They demonstrated their curriculum with confidence and know how. No adult or teen class has been so on top.

Naturally, because they were well prepared I made it harder. Still, they pushed themselves and focused beyond any pain or discomfort.

These are young leaders. They naturally lead their class peers and assist them when they need help. They have reached an impressive level. Now, more challenges will come.

Black Cloud

2009-03-13T17:01:00.000-07:00

Black Clouds represent renewal and cleansing. They bring rain water that nuritouses the earth and lightning that causes cleansing in nature.

When the darkness comes we must look inward to find the light and have courage. To understand what we see in the darkness may not be real but only shadows.

This is the emotional part of ourselves, like the flowing water we must learn to go with the flow of life. The time of the West is when we learn that we are responsible to all things and to each other. We gather ourselves and family, working together to prepare for what is to come. Black symbolizes change from this life.

Moz Retains the Faith(ful) in Years of Refusal

2009-02-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

The patron saint of (YOR) universal trouble makers exerts his bold lyrical talents and reaches a new height in musical achievement.

The faithful, like me, grow fonder of our high regarded hero of anti heroes.

With out Morrissey who would be there to express how we really feel and loath?

I'm looking forward to catching his gigs in the Southwest.

I dont remember the Last Time I Spoke to Carol!

Morrissey Gracias!

The Others can kiss my arse.

I'm Dissapointed to Remark "I Told You So".

2009-02-16T15:31:00.000-08:00

The wake of destruction has now arrived and the cause long gone. I'm still astonish by the blatant deniel and disregard for the consequences of a laisser-faire attitude.

Things of this maganitude were built over time and did not just occur overnight.

Will they relize thier huge mistake and turn it around?

I dont kow.

Peanut Greed, Bailout Billionaires, Cheaters! I'm Sick!

2009-02-12T17:24:00.001-08:00

With the greedy peanut ceo, bailout billionaires who we are paying for, and all the cheats make me sick to my stomach. Time for a bailout "tea-party" in protest of those greedy grubbers. Who cares about the octuplet mom. What about jobs, and the unemployed Americans!

Im Sick.

Fund & Revive the Civilian Conservation Corp.

2009-02-01T19:37:00.000-08:00

In time of economic depression, this is the BEST time to revive the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) that employed so many people in the Great Depression, rebuilt America, and lead to re-skilled workers.

I'm an advocate for the CCC's work with National Parks and our parks need conservation. Furthermore, I believe that working in National Parks will ignite a great sense of fundamental environmentalism for a new generation of Americans.

This is the time to begin to reverse environmental damage and employ Americans to do something now.

Not to mention, I'm all for restricting small occupancy vehicles in to Yosemite and only allowing busses and other large occupancy vehicles. Radical, ha?

Come Home Billy Budd!!

2009-01-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

It's time for Billy to come home. Claggart is dead. There is nothing you can do about it. It has passed.

"Forty years after a battle it is easy for a non-combatant to reason about how it ought to have been fought. It is another thing personally and under fire to direct the fighting while involved in the obscuring smoke of it." HM

"The Care Of Human Life And Happiness, And Not Their Destruction, Is The First And Only Legitimate Object Of Good Government."

2009-01-18T14:43:00.000-08:00

Thomas Jefferson, letter to Republican Citizens of Washington County, Maryland
Monticello, March 31, 1809

###

As a life long student of philosophy, and political philosophy at that, these days are viewed with profound meaning and clarity. There is no mystic. It is clear as a rare winter’s day in Los Angeles. All of a sudden, to the east are mountains caped with white snow, to the north is the Hollywood sign, to the west is Catalina. Things never seemed so clear.

The impact of the "change" will reverberate throughout the world and have a lasting affect for America. I'm hoping that Americans embrace change responsibly and maintain it consistently. Environmental, health, economic and other changes most be held. We must not give up two months, two years or two decades from now. The change must be unwavering and part of our culture.

Happy New Year: Same Priortities with Greater Focus

2009-01-11T13:48:00.000-08:00

Priorities really havent changed for 2009. Balance, happiness, decisiveness and compassion continue to be high values. However, focus on standing priorities will be greater this year.

There will be no time for hesitation. Attainment of Goals will be decisive-quick.

Fudoshin:
A spirit of unshakable calm and determination,
courage without recklessness,
Like a willow tree,
powerful roots deep in the ground
and a soft, yielding resistance against
the winds that blow through it.

Nov. 11. US "Sound of the Smiths" release!

2008-11-10T20:26:00.000-08:00

I'm heading to Amoeba to get my full disk copy!

I feel like an awkward nerdy teenager again. I recall my excitment in buying Smiths Albums, little changes.

>
REVIEW AFTER LISTENING TO COMPILATION:

Wow! This is beautifully remastered. The track order is brilliant and flowing. Tracks have been well balanced and reemphasized that only comes with maturity and wisdom of an accomplished musician like Marr.

I feel sixteen yet mature in my listening taste buds which make this compilation delectable.

Looking forward to our listening party with my brothers (longtime Smiths fans) to sing our hearts out and drink merrily.

Sturm und Drang in Los Angeles:Wagner Rings Festival

2008-11-05T16:20:00.000-08:00

It's about time that one of the Largest International Metropolitan Cities strives to host a world class International Arts and Cultural Festival specific to an artisan like Wagner. Excellent choice. Salzburg has Mozart and Los Angeles will have Wagner.

Waiting and hoping for Wagner to appear in LA Phil and Opera's repertoire will be no longer and the "fest" shall ensue.

P.s. Thanks to all those with the foresight like L.A. Opera General Director Plácido Domingo, my county Supervisors Gloria Molina, Zev Yaroslavsky, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and philanthropist Eli Broad.

Footprint Challenge Update: Walking

2008-11-02T14:30:00.001-08:00

It's been two weeks since the begining of my Carbon Reducation Footprint Challenge:

Here is my walking data:
Week One: 10/16 - 10/23
steps: 83,235
miles: 42.3
calories: 2365

Week Two: 10/24 - 10/31
steps: 63,591
miles: 30.8
calories: 1716

Powell endorses Obama for president

2008-10-19T20:28:00.000-07:00

Colin Powell is a respected figure in America and in American history. I have always felt that Powell has been the social conscious in the Bush Administration, at best under the circumstances.

Powell tells it straight, with honesty, and with great concern for the conscious and future of America.

I almost weeped with pride for Mr. Powell. I hope that those who maybe undecided look at this as a sign to do the right thing for America.

30 Day Carbon Footprint Challenge

2008-10-16T14:44:00.000-07:00

For 30 days I'm going to significantly reduce my carbon footprint by doing the following:

1. Walk to local places around the community within 4 miles. (Markets, etc)
2. Use local transit for distances more than 4 miles.
3. Use regional tranist (Metro rail) to get to places more than 8 miles.
4. Cutting plastic bag use from market shopping.
5. Requesting recyclable materials from establishments I frequent.

At the end of the 30 days, I will total the miles walked, travel using public transit, use of recyclables and calculate my carbon footprint.

"The Sounds of the Smiths". Compliation Release

2008-10-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

I was always reluctant to purchase compilation releases, especially unsanctioned. However, I'm certainly going to acquire this Smiths compilation and possibly the box set.

I grew up with the Smiths. As my karate students and karate peers in the 80s would attest, the dojo was filled with Smith tunes before classes. I was in about 8th grade when I was introduced to the Smiths by my elder brother who was attending Whittier College and active with college radio. All my formats where on tapes and I had warn the hell out of them till they stretched and winned.

The sounds of my youth!

From Manchester United to Westham to Millwall: Where's your Hooligan Pride?

2008-10-11T12:44:00.000-07:00

Moz cant be loyal to one crew? May the best hooligans win.

No One Likes Us, No One Likes Us, No One Likes Us – We Don't Care! (Millwall)

Yosemite National Park via Amtrak

2008-10-04T14:43:00.000-07:00

If you want to reduce your carbon footprint trekking to Yosemite via Amtrak is an excellent way to do so. Conscious if the many motor vehicles that burn fuel and spout exhaust throughout the beautiful national park, I wanted to reduce my own carbon footprint. Amtrak.

The Route
With backpack gear and all, Norwalk Metro Greenline Station (Blueline to Redline) to Union Station Downtown Los Angeles. Board Amtrak thruway bus (spacious I might add) to Bakersfield. Board Amtrak Train to Merced. Merced board YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transit) to Curry Village where the adventure really begins. Lou from YARTS was very cool and friendly. I missed my bus back at Curry Village (coming down from the backcountry) but Lou picked me up and gave me a ride to the Lodge where I met my bus. Thanks Lou!

The connecting Train and busses are cordinated well and no worry in missing connections because Amtrak assures that (they own the busses, to from Bakersfield and LA). Very smooth.

I offset my carbon footprint. By car I would have burned 0.200 tonnes: 772 miles.

By rail burned 0.075 tonnes of carbon: 772 miles

If it were up to me, I would close access to motor vehicles and restrict access only to busses and shuttles. If.

Off I go to Yosemite

2008-09-27T15:04:00.000-07:00

Packed and ready to hit Yosemite via rail. Near Carbonless.

View Larger Map

McCain's Stroke

2008-09-25T11:59:00.000-07:00

If you have HD TV look at McCain's pupil dilation for over minute. It's irregular and it apprears that he may have had a stroke or may have one impending. If you know the symtoms of stroke, McCain is a prime example of one.

SHould this occur before the election, America may be spared of Palin. If a larger stroke occurs after, get use to President Palin.

Chicken McCain, Not a Multitasker

2008-09-25T11:45:00.000-07:00

McCain and GW are shameless in using the "Bailout" as the "September Surprise". They were looking for something to shock and panic the American people and here it is. Sure, we are facing a huge problem but he is doing his best to save McCain and distract Americans entirely. Bush is only creating more panic.

Obama, go the Bush meeting, work on a financial legislative package and go to the debates!

Obama-Biden Let's Get Going!

2008-08-27T20:33:00.000-07:00

Hell, yes! This is an awesome and motivating ticket. What class and strength. Biden is the attack dog we need with gravitas. I'm so ready to hit a battle ground state. Californians need to get their crap togther and realize that if they really want to win this, get off your arse, get out of California, and contribute in a significant way.

We have all heard local democratic activist, espcially the able bodied, say they did there part. Some have even said "I was thier in the begining", but never really did anything where and when it counts.

So pack your bags and get ready to elect our next President of the United States. We are going to change our country. See you on amtrak!

Karate Kids Kick at Demonstration

2008-07-28T18:41:00.000-07:00

A small group of my students from our Dojo (Tai Crane Karate) did a Karate Demonstration at Mayberry Park's Summer Concert in the Park and was a great success. Students are learning well. This is one way of observing whether students are learning and training at a competent level or whether their Sensei is teaching them correctly. So far so good.

I applaud all my students and their parents for doing a great job! Most, if not all, Parents attended with great enthusiasm.

The Dark Knight: Batman Made His Choice, or Did He?

2008-07-23T19:45:00.000-07:00

Batman was my favorite DC hero as a child. A hero that, as children, we fantasized being and roll played with friends and siblings. Superman didn’t do much for me. Speed racer was the guy I loved as a kid, but Batman hit something deeper, at the core.

My brother and I had a very thick encyclopedia of DC super heroes that sketched, in cartoon, how and why they become who they are: heroes. I don’t know if that book is around, but as a kid it allowed us to understand a hero and to identify with one or more. Batman was my guy in this book.

The new release of the “Dark Knight” was a solid philosophical return to why Batman is who he is: a dark hero. It was no surprise, but it was great to see it played out for people to meditate on. I didn’t quite pay attention to the chronology of these movies and or whether this was an early story of his cape career. However, I believe he made the underlining philosophical choice earlier then this movie cut.

The decision was made at the point of his tragedy. He later came to a realization who he really is, what he must do, how and the balance he maintains within himself.

In the movie, Bruce Wayne says: People are dying, Alfred. What would you have me do?

Alfred Pennyworth replied: Endure, Master Wayne. Take it. He'll hate you for it. But that's the point of Batman, he can be the outcast. He can make the choice that no one else can make, the right choice.

I believe that there is more here. Batman realizes who he is and what he can’t be (especially to others). The realization that he is both Dark and light. In this realization, he knows that he must be, at time and in perception, Dark and only he and a few know the intensity of his light. Esoteric Budo, Taoist at heart.

Batman is forged fudoshin.

Film: "Tabarly" - Magnificent! Score by Yann Tiersen

2008-07-08T13:33:00.000-07:00

Tabarly - bande annonce
Uploaded by -Addison-

A Legend and an extraordinary adventurer. I'm in awe of people like Tabarly who make adventure (sailing) a full time occupation, immerse their whole being in it, and are free in doing so.. When you see and hear this man, his soul speaks to you.

"For the 10th anniversary of Eric Tabarly's death, a famous skipper from Brittany (Northwest of France), the director Pierre Marcel and Galatée Film release a biography of this unsurpassed sailor on June, 11. Galatée Film did not hesitate at all to suggest another exceptional Breton (from Brittany), i.e. Yann Tiersen to compose the soundtrack of this outstanding film. As usual, Yann Tiersen did not just make a music that illustrate the film, but he made a full-fledged, independent, personal and powerful music. Yann made an instrumental music that gives pride of place to the piano and to the intimist melodies which will delight his biggest fans. This record is a kind of bridge in the artist's evolution, from his first loves to his new folk trend. Under this peacefull, mastered and warm movie soundtrack, lies actually a new allbum. After Eric Zonca's « la vie rêvée des anges » , « Amélie from Montmartre » and « Goodbye Lenin », Yann Tiersen composed his fourth soundtrack and as the previous films, it is a safe bet that it will be a success! The record has been initially made for vinyl and the mastering has been made from this vinyl. The sound is therefore warm and powerful."

http://www.myspace.com/yanntierseninprogress

###
From Wikipedia:

Eric Tabarly's boat Pen Duick II in Port Haliguen.Éric Tabarly (July 24, 1931 in Nantes – June 14, 1998) was a notable French sailor.

A former officer in the French navy who is often considered the father of French yachting, Tabarly was a record-setting distance sailor who won several notable races aboard his boats, all named Pen Duick. He was lost at sea when struck by a gaff during heavy swell and knocked overboard from his yacht near Wales while on his way to the Fife Regatta in Scotland. His body was recovered five weeks later off the coast of Ireland by a French fishing trawler.

Hiking and Camping at Little Harbor was Paradise!

2008-07-02T18:05:00.000-07:00

Little Habor, Catalina (Hike-in). Paradise! My "Moon's, California Camping", book was right and then more. It's rated a 10 and exceeded all, if any, expectations.

I arrived through Two Harbors which is a beautiful little harbor and pier. The people were very pleasant. I had a bite to eat at the little restaurant. The Kobe hamburger was killer!

When entering the Little Harbor, the little harbor ocean view opened up beautifully. Amazing place with fantastic and grand views. It has everything, swimming, hiking, kayaking, fishing, and other naturalist thing to do.

There is just too much to mention. Ranger Gilligan is the Ranger for this site as well (Blackjack). Again, the coolest down to earth guy you can BS with and he is very informative and helpful.

Blackjack Hike-In Camp: Dam it was hot!

2008-06-23T18:55:00.000-07:00

Just got back from camping on Santa Catalina Island’s Blackjack campground on the highest point and wooded part of the Island. Best part of Blackjack is going through Avalon. Worst part of Blackjack is Blackjack.

It was over 100 degrees! I just had to choose high noon to hike in with my pack.

It was ok. I was pretty hot when I arrived. No one was in my immediate camp, not within view. Soon after pitching my tent the coolest Ranger Gilligan stopped by and told me where the rinse showers where. Ahhhhhhhh! That cold outdoor shower was heaven! No it's not a nudist camp, not normally.

That early evening a bachelorette party of about 8 women camped out. Strange things occured and I will never talk about what happened.

Mendez Wins Top Spot in Democratic Party Race, 56th Assembly District

2008-06-04T08:16:00.000-07:00

Thank you Democratic Voters of the 56th Assembly District for returning me to the Los Angeles County Democratic Party Central Committee.

I'm also very privileged to be re-elected for a third term and with the highest number of votes (#1) three elections in a row. It's a great empowering feeling to have that much confidence from the Democrats of the 56th Assembly District.

I will do my best to represent you and continue to advocate on issues that create greater access to the Democratic Party and gear up for the general election fight.

COUNTY CENTRAL COMMITTEES - 56TH DISTRICT - DEMOCRATIC

Candidate Votes Percent
GARY MENDEZ 3,989 8.57
MAUREEN ALLEN 3,840 8.25
LILLIAN M GONZALES 3,576 7.69
DENISE STABILE 3,415 7.34
MARISELA CERVANTES 3,355 7.21
ANTHONY ARMENDAREZ 3,298 7.09
RAUL P GONZALES 3,094 6.65
FLOYD ALLEN 3,011 6.47
FRANCIS CARBAJAL 2,384 5.12
GEOFFREY M MARKELL 2,306 4.96
HANNIBAL AGUILAR 2,220 4.77
DELTA E DUVALI 2,177 4.68
CESAR DIEGO JAMES 2,158 4.64
CHARLIE ARA 2,000 4.3
JIMMY MENDOZA JR 1,589 3.42
C J DUVALI 1,523 3.27
HUMBERTO B LUJAN 1,391 2.99
LEEA HALMETOJA 1,202 2.58

VOTE FOR NO MORE THAN 7
Registration 71,449
Precincts Reporting 166
Total Precincts 166
% Precincts Reporting 100

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Last Updated: 15:35 06/13/2008
June 3, 2008 - Los Angeles County Primary Election

Bill Richardson for Secretary of State!

2008-06-04T07:48:00.000-07:00

Bill made the right decision to back the best candidate for President of the United States. It takes great gravity and foresight to put oneself out and do what's right for the country while anticipating the harsh criticism from the Clintons.

I would love to see Governor Bill Richardson as Vice President and if that's not workable without doubt as Secretary of State.

Bills credentials in the international community is unquestionable and the most qualified of any other choice. He would be of great benefit to Obama and our country in bringing back respect and integrity to our country reputation throughout the world.

Please, please, please Obama, make Bill Richardson a priority as VP or Secretary of State.

Yes! Obama Secures Delegate Threshold

2008-06-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

Despite a long and bitter battle, Obama comes out on top. I admire him greatly for keeping his cool and responding with finesse when assaulted by Clinton. Clinton really tried hard to incite Obama and get him on defensive and offensive.

Now, I really hope the party comes together and Clinton repairs her damage and does not depart or demand things in spite and poor sports ship.

Onward and forward!

Time to Move-On; Campaign 2008

2008-06-03T14:41:00.000-07:00

After today’s June Primaries, it's time to move on to the general election and defeat McCant (McCain).

Dems need to get over the in-fighting and lay in on the Reps. Those of my Democratic brothers and Sisters in California know that we must really plan on going out of Cal to make a serious impact.

There are party leaders or pseudo leaders who rally troops in heavily democratic districts should really think about this and forgo the ego. I find that some political activist who lay claim to local leadership get people worked up to work in dem strongholds to stroke their ego for having "done something" in the elections. NOT!

If you want to win pack your bags and rough it in a state that really matters in the General Election. Otherwise, local campaigning in heavy dem districts is just an exercise of ego.

Mount up and stay thirsty my friends!

Vote Measure M - Los Nietos School Bond

2008-05-21T22:12:00.000-07:00

My family has been in Los Nietos for over 150 years attending Los Nietos schools. My family were directly involved in the building of the early school houses and has been active in the districts for those 150 years.

The facilities are just as old and in need of dire repair.

I vote for Measure M is a vote in the future of children and in my beloved Los Nietos.

Gary

"This Game is Full of Cheaters" - Speed

2008-05-11T16:01:00.001-07:00

I saw Speed Racer today with my nephews. I enjoyed it more than any kid in the theater. Again, I realized how much I loved Speed and his values.

As a kid, I really took Speed to heart. At the theatre, I had a flood of emotions, thoughts, and visual flashbacks. I now remember singing the theme and doing the standing side gesture at the beginning and the end of the cartoon.

This led me to think. Are Speed’s values good for the youth of today? I don’t know.

The Game is full of cheaters. Isn’t that the truth!

Why didn’t I learn to cheat? Why do cheaters cheat? The best cheaters I know are very smart. I don’t know.

Is it naivety that makes some of us non-cheaters?

Only as an adult did I really realize the working of dishonesty.

When Speed realizes that cheaters dominate and fix to win he continued to fight in a manner contrary to the tactics of the corrupt. He rebels and repels.

The arming of the Mach 5 demonstrates the move from naivety to more of fudoshin. Is it cheating? No, he still plays by the rules (in the grey) for good but aware of the tools-weapons of the cheaters and meets them head on.

Go No Sen to Sen Sen No Sen.

I do beg to differ with the statement that "Cheaters Don't Prosper". Cheaters do prosper which motivates them to win by any means.

There are some of us who believe the ends do not justify the means. Sentimental? Delusional? Perhaps, but the value system of Speed Racer is a Good one that singly stands to defy the Cheaters of the world who will hurt anyone no matter how small or large to serve their selfish interest.

It’s a process in realizing that one must be armed (by the Way) in order to effectively combat the cheaters.

It must be hard to be Speed Racer. It must be hard to do what’s right.

Go Speed Racer, Go!

2008-05-04T14:39:00.000-07:00

"And when the odds are against him
And there's dangerous work to do
You bet your life Speed Racer
Will see it through."

I absolutely loved Speed Racer as a kid. I had Speed Racer PJs, bed sheets and blankets, towels, dinner plate and bowl, the Mach 5 car toy, and other sundries.

It's one of the few profound things I recall of my childhood. I took the values of speed racer as my own. Battling the tricksters and wrong doers. There was an innocents and sincerity to his character.

I was especially mesmerized by Speed's brother Racer X. The alter ego Racer X was fascinating. There was time we wanted to be the anonymous and mysterious Racer X.

As Karate student and young black belt at 15, the meaning of both Speed Racer and Racer X became more apparent. The budo philosophy was inherent in both. We are all both Speed and X.

Racer X was a part of us that was anonymous and dark. However, we all have a choice to what extent did Racer X act and for what purpose. (The life giving sword).

Speed was the hero everyone liked and he Never gave up despite the odds.

Trixie was so hot! Her sighs, dark short hair, light skin, and concern for Speed was attractive. I've always liked woman who subconsciously reminded me of Trixie.

Go Speed racer, Go Speed Racer Go!

See you in the shadows Racer X.

Save Our School Rally - Sat. May 3rd

2008-04-30T18:11:00.000-07:00

SOS
SAVE OUR SCHOOLS
CAMPAIGN
Southern California
Rally
Pioneer High School
Stadium
Whittier,CA
(605 Fwy at Slauson Blvd. off ramp)
Saturday, May 3, 2008
1:00 P.M.

Join Parents, students, and community leaders in protesting California state education budget cuts.

My karate student and parents will be in attendance.

Light Rail Plan Hijacking by San Gabriel Valley Cities - Wrong!

2008-04-29T20:30:00.000-07:00

The Whittier Daily News ran an article today on certain San Gabriel Valley cities attempting to hijack the long planned east-side county light rail route.

It's a selfish act to derail established plans to run the proposed light rail from downtown Los Angeles thru East LA, Montebello, and Pico Rivera to Whittier and unincorporated Whittier.

People in the current plan do not have adequate access to rapid public transportation like the people in San Gabriel Valley.

The San Gabriel Valley cities have the El Monte/South El Monte Transit Center hub that many transportation agencies use and provide access for residents in local cities to Los Angeles and to the Inland Empire. The transportation access at El Monte provides long range and short range bus service. More importantly, the San Gabriel Valley hub in El Monte currently provides rapid freeway flier access to Downtown Los Angeles and to the inland empire along the 10 freeway.

Detouring the current plan to serve the underserved communities of Whittier, Unincorporated Whittier, and Pico Rivera and Montebello further limits rapid transit and further diminishes access for people in these communities.

It’s selfish for cities in San Gabriel Valley to get another Transit Center.

The current plan must stay and the cities in San Gabriel Valley need to share rapid transit access to other areas of east county of Los Angeles.

Great to be American

2008-04-27T13:31:00.000-07:00

It's great to be reminded how privileged we are to be Americans in America. Beautiful country, freedoms, diversity, and the unbound pursuit of happiness.

de Tocquevilled
T. Jefferson
John Muir
R.W. Emerson
R. Frost
H.W. Longfellow
W. Whitman

South Whittier Satelite College Center - Short Change

2008-04-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

There is a ridiculous argument being advocated by Russell Castañeda Calleros, the governmental affairs director, at Rio Hondo College regarding the South Whittier Satellite Center. He say's, "the people in South Whittier need more green space than college classrooms."

The voters voted on a $234 million dollar bond which $3 million was committed and budgeted for a college satellite center in South Whittier. Some administrators, including Russell Castañeda Calleros, are planning to short change the project thereby breaking the promise made to the community to invest the full $3 million in the satilite center.

What it comes down to is whether to build three or four classrooms. Of course this would mean serving fewer people at the site and instead adding a small patch of grass and a tree. Russell Castañeda Calleros makes the argument that the people of South Whittier and surrounding area need more "green space" than classroom space for courses and programs.

Now, I consider myself an environmentalist and have a good policy track record. But this is about Rio Hondo Community College serving people in an area with high unemployment, the furthest south community from campus, a working class community, limited in transportation, and with no high school.

I'm stand steadfast that the people of South Whittier deserve more classroom space to take college courses that will help them attain better paying jobs, help young adults get in college, and improve the community overall rather than a small patch of grass with a tree. There are several good parks in the area.

Russell Castañeda Calleros and others are attempting to short change the people of South Whittier and I wont let them do it without a fight.

Leave Redistricting to Elected Representatives

2008-04-22T09:41:00.000-07:00

"The California Voters First Initiative would take the redistricting process out of the hands of state legislators and put it under the control of an independent committee."

I would much rather have our elected representatives in the state legislature draw districts then leave it to an "independent" committee that is not representative of California.

The proponents of this Initiative know well that taking the process out of the hands of our elected representatives usurps residents of California and our democratic form of government.

I'm disapointed that my retired political science professor and Whittier city councilman Owen Newcomer would back such initiative. By supporting this initiative he is taking the process out of the hands of the people and giving it to an elite group of people not representative of our diverse population of California.

Our representative form of democracy should not be substituted for a committee of political appointments who were not directly elected by the people of California. If a community does like its representative they can vote them out. In the case of a committee of elites, we can not vote them out and there is no mechanism to do so should the people disagree with their decision.

Stick to our elected legislature who we can hold accountable at the local level and not a group of unaccountable elitist.

The State of Ward Republics in America

2008-04-14T17:41:00.000-07:00

Thomas Jefferson believed that democracy in America is best represented at the local level (ward republics) where citizens govern themselves and live inter-dependently (in collaboration with each other).

I too have subscribed to this idea since my teens age years reading Jefferson, Rousseau's "The Social Contract" and other political philosophy.

This Presidential Primary cycle gives me great hope and concern. The possibility of either an African-American or woman brings me closer to the idea of equal opportunity in America.

However, I'm also growing concern for how our democracy or the idea of democracy may be or not shifting at the local level. As Jefferson argued, the small local ward republic is reflective of the federal/national state of democracy. If this is true, my concern is that I observe not a shift in ideas, but just the same "old" Machiavellian practice of the group fight and hoarding of resources.

Perhaps I'm viewing this too idealistically. To anticipate and get caught in the fervor of an ideological revolution may be placing too many expectations on "change". I understand realism in politics, but is this really "change"?

I see no "change" at the local levels. What I observe is the realist opportunism that can be a plague if not checked. My observation is the Democratic Presidential Campaigns at the local levels are not representative of the movement and ideas they purport. The Presidential Caucuses where strangely awkward.

Is there such thing as "unity" when people ideologicly akin are tearing each other apart? What I believe as ideology transcending race and culture may not be that at all. In my local ward-republic and what I observed in the Iowa Caucuses was not “unity” or “change”. What was it?

I do observe some believers in the “movement”. They deserve every encouragement and should be brought into the process so that they might actually be the ones down the road instituting “change”. I will do my best to help them get on the ship.

However, there were also acute opportunist using the “movement” to solely help themselves or engaging in cultural elitism. “I’m bring in my own group in and the rest of you will have to sit back and be governed by us” attitude.

Ok, I believe that “change” may bring change in the wealth structure in America and create greater access to opportunity for those who have not been included. Am I wrong? Could it just be one elitist group versus another elitist group?

I feel something is not right in our wards republics.

The Licorice Fields of Pontefract it was not

2008-03-28T15:35:00.000-07:00

Betjeman would be disapointed
for it was not a licorice field
where my love and I did meet,
rather a corner cafe speak,
Her hair was brown chestnut it did glow,
skin dark and brown,
her lips sulky indeed and shaped for sin,
her legs were only the begining to which led up to divinity.

Good take of Betjman from the boys of BSP.

Sen Sen No Sen - Taking the Initiative

2008-03-12T22:47:00.000-07:00

I've changed my mind and I’m resolved. After long meditation and contemplation, I have decided to wholly incorporate Sen Sen No Sen into my philosophy and practice. I will carefully and decisively apply it. Of course, with compassion.

Note: go no sen and sen remain philosophies and strategem that I find my core values.

Tiny Tot Karate Kids

2008-02-25T18:06:00.001-08:00

I wanted to thank my dedicated tiny tot karate kids who came out in the rain to study karate.

domo arigato gozaimashita!

KARATE: Congratulations to Joshua and Dorian!

2008-02-25T18:00:00.001-08:00

Dorian and Joshua earned their Yellow Belts with discipline and focus. This was the toughest yellow belt test I have given in many years.

Community in Crisis: Foreclosures in Los Nietos

2008-02-25T16:51:00.000-08:00

Foreclosures in our working class community are astronomical: Up 412% in 2005 & 186% in 2007. Los Nietos is in a financial and housing crisis. This has and will continue to be a heavy burden on families in Los Nietos. What will we do? Who will be there for families? How are families to survive? Leaders, we, must begin to address this issue, NOW!

The financial hemorrhaging has lead to large increases in drops in enrollment at schools due to migration. There are many implications that must be looked at.

Home foreclosures from 2005-2007

Zip Code: 90606
City: Los Nietos-Whittier
2005: 52
2006: 93
2007: 266
% change from 2005: 412%
% change from 2006: 186%

90670 Santa Fe Springs 26 52 97 273% 87%

Source:
http://lang.sgvtribune.com/databases/foreclosures.asp

Afternoon Tao at the Columbarium

2008-02-16T17:20:00.000-08:00

Peace prevailed at the Columbarium where soft swift breezes blew and images of purple robes appeared on the buddha.

Obama Inspired

2008-02-14T14:25:00.000-08:00

It has been a long time since I've been inspired and moved by a leader.

When I look into the eyes of the children and young people I teach I see the future of our community, country and world. I know they will grow to make positive contributions. I have an awesome opportunity to guide them for a short time and I take this privilege with great joy, hope and responsibility.

I have asked myself which Presidential candidate would best benefit and give hope to my students? When I listen to Clinton and Obama the answer is clear to me.

Obama gives my students, their families and I hope for the future. I believe that he can do it and he belives we can do it together.

My Mama Would Have Preferred Obama

2008-02-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, I believe that my dear beloved-departed Mama would have preferred Obama. She always believed in hope, change, and lifting the hearts and minds of the people. She once wrote Bill Clinton a letter on the subject in which she mentioned "my mijo (me) comes from hope (of the heart) like you Mr. President". President Clinton corresponded kindly in return. Now, hope is re-ignited by Barak Obama. My Mama would have loved Obama.

What Difference Does It Make?

2008-02-02T20:58:00.000-08:00

Pick Your Prejudice or Preference.

Independence Day Comes Early [if Edwards stayed in]

2008-01-30T15:27:00.000-08:00

[This was an opinion written about five days before Edwards quit. Not an endoresment but an analysis of the scenario edwards would have created had he stayed in the race. It is apparent what impact this plays now. Independents and Edwards supporters are now forced to choose or sit out the race. Who does that help? It does help one candidate more than the other, I believe. Look further into Edwards and Independent voter polling (demographic). I hope he got a sweet deal, at least. Nonetheless, I'm happy for all.]

Opinion Editorial [not a letter to editor]

Independence Day Comes Early in California

Independence Day will come early in California when unprecedented amounts Independent voters (decline-to-state) cast their ballots in the California Democratic Presidential Primary election tipping the political-electoral balance.

Independents in California make up 19.3% of voters, 20% in Los Angeles County, and 26% in Whittier. Since 1998, democrats and republicans in California have declined in registratation while independents have grown over 9%. They have power.

The California Republican Party chooses not to allow the growing and influential California independent voters to participate in their primary process. However, the California Democratic Party opted for an inclusive, semi-open, process.

What does this mean for Democratic candidates? By now, democrat campaigns have nearly exhausted their efforts to persuade this unpredictable, non-organized, and fiercely independent group with little indication on how they may actually vote.

Independents will not sit this race out and pass up the opportunity to significantly influence the electoral outcome of the California Democratic Presidential Primary and exercise their political might in state and national politics.

The democratic field of candidates leaves independents with little choice. Past elections demonstrate that they don’t necessarily follow popular polls and anointed candidates. Which means, they may not vote for the top two candidates (Clinton & Obama) and opt for the perceptual independent-moderate democratic candidate (Edwards) thereby upsetting the democratic elites and rank and file partisan voters.

On Tuesday, February 3 don’t expected bomb bursting fireworks, at least not in the air.

Karate Kids Having Fun (link)

2008-01-22T21:21:00.000-08:00

Karate Kids having fun at Mayberry Park Dojo doing Triggered Salute technique. Amazing what the kids are capable of, all while being good and humble. Great way to build confidence and self-esteem. Kids with confidence and self-esteem are capable of great positive things!

Disappointment in Democratic Candidates: South Carolina

2008-01-21T21:10:00.000-08:00

Watching Hillary and Barak tear each other apart on personal attacks and not on issues is appalling. Ok, a good ribbing on a rare spontaneous occasion is one thing, but this was on an open stage debate before the American people. This is what they leave people and me with?

Edwards is looking good staying above or below the fray and is smart. The dynamics have changed on how I view the Democratic candidates.

What now? Who to support?

I dunno?

"You Dont Deserve it", they say. My Response, "Who the Hell are You!"

2008-01-18T18:38:00.000-08:00

Some of my detractors told me, in person, recently that "I make them look bad and they plan to meet with the editors of the Whittier Daily News to stop articles written about or mentioning me". My response: Who the hell are you?.

They assumed that I requested the article, which is wholly untrue and even if it were true, so what. "It should have been on someone else who deserves it", they say. OK!

If these people actually stood for something and were truly concerned about their community, they would get off their derrieres and work with real people outside of their elitist debauch soirees'.

I believe that everyone is entitled to their opinion, but people who force their idea of detachment (from people and issues) in politics are really barking up the wrong tree here. I have a social-political responsibility (contract) to my community and I strive to nurture my relationship with it, as a way of life. So my polite advice is either stand for something or sit down and shut up.

###

The article... nearest my heart is the division of counties into wards ... should they become corrupt and perverted, the division into wards constituting the people, in their wards, a regularly organized power, enables them by that organization to crush, regularly and peaceably, the usurpations of their unfaithful agents, and rescues them from the dreadful necessity of doing it insurrectionally. In this way we shall be as republican as a large society can be, and secure the continuance of purity in our government by the salutary, peaceable, and regular control of the people." --Thomas Jefferson to Samuel Kercheval, 1816. ME 15:70

Whittier Daily News: " The 'Inferno' truth

2008-01-14T19:48:00.000-08:00

The 'Inferno' truth
Trustee Gary Mendez's code shaped by grandma, karate
By Tracy Garcia, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 01/12/2008 10:31:03 PM PST

RE-ELECTED: Gary Mendez, a Whittier native, has been elected to serve another term on the Rio Hondo College Board of Trustees. (James Carbone/Correspondent)WHITTIER - Gary Mendez's grandmother scared the dickens out of him as a youngster - and it's something the newly re-elected Rio Hondo College trustee says he will never forget, because it ended up shaping the way he lives his life.
"I remember early on, she told me about Dante's `Inferno,"' said Mendez, 38. "She said there's a stage of hell meant for those who never take sides, and they end up in this purgatory.

"As a young man, that scared the heck out of me, as you can imagine," he said, chuckling.

"But it also showed me that if you don't take sides and stand up for what you believe, there is an area in hell that is for you," Mendez said. "And I took that seriously."

He has kept that lesson close to his heart as an adult, and says it's also part of the reason he has landed in some sticky situations since he was first elected to the Rio Hondo board in 1999.

In 2001, he was accused by fellow Rio Hondo board members of not living in his trustee area. That prompted an investigation by state officials, who ultimately cleared him.

In 2005 he formed a majority vote with newly elected trustees Angela Acosta-Salazar and Garry Couso-Vasquez and was elected president of the panel, only to be censured and have the title stripped by the board six months later following an altercation with former President Rose Marie Joyce.

This past fall, just a couple of weeks before he won re-election, he claimed the now-retired Joyce had

been secretly forced out by the board for poor performance - an allegation that Joyce and the board have vehemently denied.
That prompted trustees to call for Mendez to be censured again at a special meeting in October, which was canceled when only two trustees showed up.

More recently, Mendez was in the spotlight when he and other local activists campaigned in Iowa earlier this month for former Democratic presidential candidate Bill Richardson.

Mendez and the group - which included a 15-year-old high-schooler and her older sister - got stranded in the Hawkeye state and caught people's attention when he quickly tried to raise $2,000 for four train tickets home.

"Why is there so much drama? I think about this a lot, I've asked myself that question," said Mendez, who was raised by a single mom, Ruby, in Pico Rivera and Whittier before striking out on his own at 17.

"And I kind of know the answer - I'm not afraid to take up things and causes that people are reluctant to do," he said. "It's a lack of fear - but not consequence - and confidence that maybe I'm not afraid to do what I think is right."

His detractors, many of whom run in the same local political circles and declined to go on the record about Mendez, said they think otherwise.

"We keep our distance from him. We don't care to associate with him," said Lillian Gonzales, president emeritus of the local Mark Twain Democratic Club.

Mendez is currently on the Democratic Party's Los Angeles County Central Committee in the 56th Assembly District.

"One time, we were at a 56th Assembly District meeting and he just had a matter of opinion and stood up and yelled," Gonzales said. "This is the kind of person he is.

"That's why I stay clear of him. I don't have any wish to be near him for any reason," Gonzales said.

But Ralph Pacheco, a Whittier Union High School District trustee who met Mendez when Pacheco was on the Rio Hondo board nearly 20 years ago, disagrees.

He points to Mendez's volunteer work at Mayberry Park in South Whittier, where he teaches karate to local children, as an indicator of his personality.

"He has a way of connecting with children. These children just respond to him and that's a gift," Pacheco said. "It's a side of Gary Mendez that most people who know him politically don't know about.

"And if more people knew that side of Gary Mendez, they would have an entirely different perspective of who he is - not as a politician or elected official, but as a person," Pacheco said.

After graduating from Whittier High School, Mendez began working and attending Rio Hondo, where he earned a degree in paralegal studies. Eventually, he transferred to Cal State Sacramento, where he earned a bachelor's degree in government.

He began his political career working for now-Rep. Grace Napolitano, D-Santa Fe Springs, then was a field deputy for former state Assemblyman Tom Calderon.

His mother's death in 1998 brought him back to Whittier from Sacramento, at which point he said he started to feel like he "wanted to step up and take some challenges."

"And Rio Hondo was the first thing that popped into my mind," he said. "Serving on the college board, it was like home for me."

In 2004 he started his own political consulting firm, Urban Strategies, and made an unsuccessful bid for a seat on the Water Replenishment District.

He also ran for Norwalk City Council in 2005 and was roundly defeated by Rick Ramirez, whom he now counts as a good friend.

He's also a third-degree karate black belt - another part of his childhood to which he's clung.

"I used to play musical instruments in the third grade, and I would walk home and they used to get taken away by the neighborhood kids," Mendez said.

"My mom would have to get on the phone to find out who had taken it, but after a while, she said, `Gary, we can't do this anymore,' so she enrolled me in karate."

He said he soon learned how to defend himself enough to stop being bullied, and karate became "something I grew to love and has been a pillar in my life."

So when the going gets tough in his political world, Mendez says he can always fall back on his old karate ways.

"As long as what I'm doing is right, they can kick me and take me down, but I stick to what I believe is right.

"And," he quickly adds, "it's just politics."

tracy.garcia@sgvn.com

(562) 698-0955, Ext. 3051

Southeast Youth Violence & Gang Summitt

2008-01-11T20:16:00.000-08:00

I attended this event at the Norwalk Marriot this morning. Nice event with panels of discussion from people and organizations involved with subject. I was looking for some type of training comprehensive but was not the case. Thats ok.

Richardson Drops Out

2008-01-10T12:54:00.001-08:00

It's a bit sad but it was always a possibility.

It's been a great effort and we are proud of Richardson. Our love of the Guv will continue and we hope that he is seriously considered for Vice President or Secretary of State. Our country deserves the like of Richardson. There is no one as experienced and qualified as Bill Richardson among the presidential field. We will always be here for you and ready should you call upon us. Anytime and anyplace.

Gary Mendez

Back from Iowa

2008-01-09T16:25:00.000-08:00

There is so much to report on the Iowa Caucuses. The main purpose was to support Bill Richardson, keep him "viable", and give young people the opportunity to enrich and empower their lives through the experience.

I believe I have accomplished my goals. On Richardson, viability is open to many interpretations. I will refrain from defining it till after February 5.

The young people who went to Iowa now see how they, individually, and as a team, can influence the outcome of a United States Presidential Primary.

The difference in growth is vastly apparent as they speak on their experience. There was a lot of criticism about this trip from the usual sources and some surprises from people I did not expect to be so negative. People will always try to diminish the effort to empower others, go figure.

A full report may be warranted...perhaps soon.

Mayberry Park Xmas Breakfast & Toy Giveaway

2007-12-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 22, 2007 at 10:00 am in Mayberry Park, we helped serving breakfast to over 150 families and 300 people. It was joyous occasion with cheer filing the hearts of everyone participating.

My buddy Mayor Rick Ramirez came through with over 200 toys for the deserving children of Mayberry.

Several of my Karate students helped at this community event volunteering all morning. Thanks.

I was also happy to see a good amount of my current students and over 50 of my summer students.

It was great!

Karate Students Promoted

2007-12-20T21:42:00.000-08:00

I'm very proud of my first three yellow belts at Mayberry Park who recently passed thier test: Miguel, Irvine and Anthony.

Loma Vista Elementary Menudo Breakfast

2007-12-15T23:28:00.000-08:00

Attended thier fundraiser to go to Sacramento. The trip can be a positive and inspiring impression on children who normaly dont see much locally.

I remember seeing the Capitol for the first time at the age of about 15 on a trip with a local veterans group who mentored me. As you might guess, it made a great impression.

I soon choose to plunge into politics. I even went so far as to attend Sac State and work in the Capitol. Many years later, I see politics and the Capitol differently. However, I do understand the positive effect it will have on these children and will do what I can to support them.

I hope that those who choose the political path will have heart in their purpose.

Preparing for Iowa Caucuses

2007-12-15T23:07:00.000-08:00

Well, trying to organize Californians to go to Iowa to help Bill Richardson is not easy. No surpise though. Up to twelve people which will fill one van. It would be nice to reach 20-25 people.

New Karate Kids - Whittier Daily News article 08/31/07

2007-08-31T19:03:00.000-07:00

New Karate Kids
Sandra T. Molina. Whittier Daily News. Whittier, Calif.: Aug 31, 2007.

SOUTH WHITTIER - Sensei Gary Mendez wasn't sure whether he was up to the task of teaching a summer karate class at Mayberry Park, let alone if any students would attend. What he got were 50 applications the first week, and two weeks later the total was 150.

"I am overwhelmed at the response of the community," Mendez, 37, said Friday, the last day of the free 12-week program.

The day was spent handing out certificates of completion to the 50 students on hand and demonstrating their skills.

It's been about six years since the Santa Fe Springs resident has taught a karate class, and then, it was only two or three students.

And how did it feel to teach again before such a large class? "I loved it," he said. "It reminded me how much I love karate, and I enjoyed introducing so many kids to the sport, as well as their parents."

Karate is not about fighting, but discipline, self-defense, self-esteem and other life skills, Mendez said.

He said the kids, with the support of their parents and the park staff, far exceeded his expectations.

"They showed me they have it in them to excel, and not only in karate," said Mendez, a public and political affairs consultant in Los Angeles County.

One of those students, 11-year-old Cindy Mora, who is autistic, said she had a lot of fun. She named some of the skills, like stances and kicks, as some of the things she liked best.

Cindy's parents, Ernesto Mora, 33, and Maria Gonzalez, 36, said they enrolled their daughter in the program to improve her motor skills.

What they got was much more.

"The class improved her motor skills and her social skills," Moreno said. "We've seen such a big difference in her."

Gonzalez said she was surprised how well Cindy did memorizing the movements.

"Learning karate has given her more confidence, and shows her she can be like everyone else," said the proud mom.

For 5-year-old Nathan Guerrero, his mom, Sandra Espinoza, 25, said her son has learned to be more patient and more safety conscious.

"He used to run and open the door whenever there was someone knocking on it," she said. "Now, he knows to take his time and let a grown-up answer the door."

And Aaron Navarrete, 11, said the meditation and sense of discipline were the best parts of the class. "I learned to focus on things I am doing, and when I get stressed, I have a way to relax," said the very serious young man, who plans on attending more classes if they are available.

If Mendez and a group of parents have their say, the class will be offered again.
The group is planning to meet with Supervisor Gloria Molina to request she once again give financial support to the class.

"She was so responsive and positive when I approached her a year ago about this program," Mendez said.

Now with the parents behind him, and Molina's dedication to young people, Mendez said he is sure he'll be back, and sooner than next summer.

"There's such a need for programs like this in the area," he said. "We'll be back again for the kids."

sandra.molina@sgvn.com
(562) 698-0955, Ext. 3028

Copyright © 2008 ProQuest LLC. All rights reserved.
People: Mendez, Gary, Mora, Cindy
Author(s): Sandra T. Molina
Section: News
Publication title: Whittier Daily News. Whittier, Calif.: Aug 31, 2007.
Source type: Newspaper
ISSN: 10692819
ProQuest document ID: 1328885151
Text Word Count 557