Crossing the concrete landscape of Los Angeles on public transport with precious cargo, Raquel (Sofia Yepes), a queer Latina aspiring to become a major music producer, is also carrying plenty of personal baggage wherever she goes. Her main occupation is working for a drug dealer, which comes with dangerous liabilities. Add to that her turbulent, unresolved past in the military, and the result is a ticking time bomb of pent-up rage. 

When Raquel runs into Veronica (Sidney Flanigan), a frazzled, but charming young woman who also claims to have creative dreams, she sees an opportunity for a fresh start. Best known for her lead role in the acclaimed indie Never Rarely Sometimes Always, Flanigan plays the part with believable fragility, while slowly revealing a more complex personality underneath the defenseless façade. Their serendipitous encounter is the foundation of the sleekly shot moody crime thriller The Low End Theory from writer-director Francisco Ordonez. Their instant connection spells trouble for Raquel, who willingly takes major risks both on the romantic and professional front in order to pursue this incandescent fling. 

From their first time the two women meet inside Raquel’s car, cinematographer Gemma Doll-Grossman’s camera becomes attached to their faces. The dance of intensely tight closeups playing with colorful lighting is how we come to understand the fiery spontaneity of what Veronica and Raquel feel for each other—whether at the club or during a moment of sexual intimacy. The camera can’t get any closer, and that’s an effective choice on Ordonez and Doll-Grossman’s part to communicate the raging emotions at play. 

But Raquel has a partner, Giselle (Ser Anzoategui), who happens to be the sister of her boss Uly (Eddie Martinez), a drug lord with a conscience. Then there’s the menacing presence of Efraim (Rene Rosado), her co-worker and the person with whom she creates music. All of these relationships, as well as Uly’s ill-obtained cash become entangled in a series of lies and terrible consequences that Raquel sets in motion in order to protect Veronica, who owes money to other nefarious parties that threaten to hurt if she doesn’t pay it back. 

For as much as The Low End Theory surrenders to well traveled paths when it comes to urban stories with a protagonist involved in illicit activities, the central relationship between Raquel and Veronica rings refreshing even when the screenplay leans into expected tropes. 

Yet, it’s Yepes’ convincingly layered performance as someone guided by a belief in a higher power, namely karmic forces, that keeps one invested in the narrative. Yepes remarkably conveys a cocktail of conflicted sentiments, particularly because of the clash between the positive light in which others see Raquel, and the dark, violent thoughts that plague her mind. There admittedly too many facets of Raquel’s world on display for any of them to truly take precedence. Thankfully Yepes remains consistently compelling through it all. 

Though far from entirely unique, The Low End Theory packs enough visual panache and the kinetic flourishes of Ordonez’s direction to result in an engaging neo-noir effort with characters who rarely get to be at the center of a story like this and where even the supporting parts benefit from above-average acting.

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LATINAFest®, the largest outdoor festival in the U.S. dedicated to empowering Latina voices while celebrating Latino culture, heritage and entrepreneurship, is thrilled to announce its 7th annual event, returning on June 1, 2025, at their new venue, Gloria Molina Grand Park in downtown Los Angeles. This year’s theme is Legacy, and the festival is set to welcome thousands of attendees, gathering to celebrate Latinas through immersive cultural experiences, music, art, food and powerful conversations.

LatinaFest® has become a beloved fixture in the community, championing Latina pride, resilience, and economic empowerment and provides a platform for emerging businesses and artists to thrive. Tapping into the economic power of Latinas, who according to the Latino Donor Collaborative, contribute $1.3 trillion to the U.S. annual economy, and have been the key to LATINAFest’s growth.

With over 3,000+ attendees, LatinaFest® 2025 invites sponsors to join in the excitement, amplifying their brand’s visibility within a dynamic, diverse audience, committed to supporting local businesses and fostering a thriving Latino community. Past sponsors have enjoyed unique brand activation opportunities, including exclusive branding at festival stages, product sampling, and social media recognition reaching tens of thousands.

By partnering with LATINAFest®, sponsors will have the opportunity to engage a multi-generational audience eager to connect with brands that celebrate and support the values of culture, empowerment, and community impact. This is an invaluable opportunity for sponsors to gain brand affinity, expand their reach, and join in celebrating the stories and successes of Latina entrepreneurs, artists, and changemakers.

Interested sponsors may contact the LatinaFest® team at latinafest.events@gmail.com to learn about exciting sponsorship packages available for this upcoming event.

Tickets are now on sale at Eventbrite. For more information about LATINAFest and upcoming events, please visit www.latinafest.com.
Follow LATINAFest on social media for updates and announcements:
Facebook: @LATINAFest
Instagram: @LATINAFest
X: @LATINAFest

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Rodriguez, is a highly sought talent who has starred as Liza Minelli in Netflix’s Halston. Broadway credits include Spring Awakening (revival), The Addams Family, In the Heights, A Chorus Line (revival) and Good Vibrations. Other memorable turns include West Side Story (Anita; Kennedy Center), A Chorus Line (Diana; Hollywood Bowl) and What We’re Up Against (Off-Broadway). On television, Rodriguez is best known for Smash, Daybreak and Trial & Error and recurring role on Quantico, Younger, Chasing Life, The Mysteries of Laura, Married and Gossip Girl.  She is very happy to return to the role of Cinderella, which she played on Broadway. 

Originally debuting in 1987, Into the Woods intertwines classic storybook characters (Rapunzel, Jack and the Beanstalk and Little Red Riding Hood) into a profound exploration of childhood, parenting and the power of the tales we tell ourselves.  When asked which the many messages presented by Sondheim’s heartfelt score most resonates with her, Rodriguez said, “For me, the message is really conveyed in the lyrics to the song No One Is Alone which are: ‘Witches can be right, Giants can be good, You decide what’s right, You decide what’s good.’ The beauty of the show is how it leans into the complexity of moral situations and fairytales. Not everything is as it seems, and we have to be willing to see the humanity of people, even if they are not on ‘our side’ as is suggested in the song.”

With origins going as far back as Greece in 7 BC, the character of Cinderella now inhabits no less than four contemporary musicals: Cinderella (updated 2013), Into the Woods (1987), Bad Cinderella (2021) and, currently running on Broadway, Once Upon A One More Time. Modern storytellers seem attracted to her very modern dilemma: although a prince is offering her “happily ever after” she wants to be sure this is really the ending she wants. So much so, that in many of the original versions of the tale, she goes to the prince’s ball three times, and runs away each time. Sondheim expresses her contemporary conundrum through the lyric, “But how do you know what you want, till you get what you want and you see if you like it?” Who in our world of too many choices can’t relate to that question?  

I asked Ms. Rodriguez what about this fairytale female icon she feels has warranted so much exploration? “That’s a good question!” Krysta replied. “I’m not really sure what makes people so fascinated with the rags to riches story. Probably the desire to rise from whatever station we are in. But what I love about this version of Cinderella, or at least how I play her, is that she is never really a princess. She’s a resourceful, humorous, flawed young woman who begins life with no agency and finds her true voice at the end.”

The music and lyrics to Into the Woods are recognized to be among genius Sondheim’s most complicated, replete with counter-point, internal rhyming, irony and emotional complexity.  Rodriguez likes performing the very demanding score for its richness, saying, ”Sondheim’s work is so layered you could dig forever and not hit the bottom. That’s incredibly satisfying for an actor especially when you’re doing a long run of a show. You can pick any word or phrase and it could mean something new every night. Plus, there are so many lessons, I almost view this as a spiritual text! It can be referenced in any phase of life or situation. It’s truly a privilege to perform it.”

And Angelinos are privileged to see an outstanding musical star in Krysta’s performance in Into the Woods thru July 30th. See it soon because as Cinderella warns us, “Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor!” 

This production is dedicated to the memory of Stephen Sondheim. Tickets to the final week of Into the Woods are available at centertheatregroup.org.

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“PIFF/LA is proud to bring Panafest8 to Avenida Production Studios, a pioneering studio dedicated to supporting independent projects from Latino filmmakers and more,” says Festival founder and Creative Director Carlos Carrasco. “Networking, celebrating representation, and shining a light on vibrant stories from across our communities are priorities for our festival and Avenida alike. It’s exciting to bring diverse audiences together in this important Latino-owned studio space to amplify exceptional creative and cultural work.”

The line-up includes Panama’s Academy Award submission, Birthday Boy, plus a number of works from Panama and/or by Panamanians. Many other countries are represented, including the U.S., Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia, Argentina, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Venezuela. The opening film, Coast, comes to Panafest via producer Wendy Guerrero, President of the Bentonville Film Festival. Coast is rich with diverse representation and an exciting cast of new and known talent. The closing film, My DACA Life, is the documentary work of award-winning Avenida co-founder, Fanny Velíz Grande whose doc My Quinceañera was a Panafest Audience Award Winner in 2019. 

For a schedule of screenings and Tickets CLICK HERE

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The 4th annual LATINAFest®: Mind, Body & Soul united 2000 plus Latinas on October 22nd at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes in the heart of Los Angeles, California for a celebration of the Latina entrepreneurial spirit! The festival, presented by Chase for Business, took place during National Women’s Business Week and celebrated Latina entrepreneurs, from new startups to those who have scaled their business and have created a pathway for Latinas.

Every year LATINAFest invites speakers and influentials to present at the largest outdoor festival that spotlights the entrepreneurial spirit on the West Coast, offering a unique experience for all. This year over 100 vendors, the focus of LATINAFest, came with an array of products and services to sell. Spirits were high as everyone was happy to enjoy the all day festival after Covid restrictions were lifted. The festival welcomed an influx of entrepreneurs, influencers, actors, executives, kids, and their families, as the word continues to spread that this is an event where all Latinas are celebrated.

The Festival kicked-off with the Goddess Procession where LATINAFest® co-founders, Bel Hernandez and Naibe Reynoso made their grand entrance followed by a tribe of Goddesses that proudly paraded behind them, stepping into their power.

Among the activities to enjoy were actress Julie Carmen who led a yoga slow flow session to start off the day; Sephora’s “We Belong To Something Beautiful” beauty activation and the Kids Zone with the Castillo Family Learning guiding the kids through many activities. Perrier created an oasis of refreshments; The Tree Yoga Cooperative and Alegria Magazine were also powering the Kid’s activities and the book readings. The Cocktail Garden sponsored by Golden Road Brewery and the 360 photo booth sponsored by Square were also among the favorites.

Keeping the vibe going all day long were the ever amazing musical powerhouses DJ’s Cece Valencia of 93.5 Kday’s; Power 106’s Bryana and Letty; and Caro Marquez of Cali 93.9. Lizza Monet Morales was this year’s co-host and co-host of TheTRENDTalk show.

LATINAFest is a community-based organization whose mission is to celebrate and promote unity, diversity, and economic inclusion, and to amplify the Latina voice while championing Latina entrepreneurs, activists, and artists who are committed to uplifting and empowering the Latina community. There is always something for everyone which is the mission of LATINAFest® to bring together women of all ages, and from all walks of life.

Attendees got to see a live taping of two episodes of TheTRENDTalk Show with guests that included Jenny Aragon, Vice President and Senior Business Consultant for Chase’s mentorship program, alongside her mentee, Fanny Grande, CEO of Avenida Entertainment, Johana Hernandez, Fashion Designer and owner of Glaudi Haute Couture, and Lisa de Bono, McDonald’s Franchisee. 

The beauty of Latinas and their culture was celebrated in the Goddess Fashion Show curated by Diana Diaz, CEO of the Goddess Mercado, a monthly pop up event. It featured designs and accessories from several LATINAFest® vendors. The models were selected from among friends and family with some making their modeling debut. It was an empowering display of Latina beauty.

The highlight of the day was when Vaughn Lucas, Head of the Chase mentorship program, presented the winner of the LATINAFest® Hero Women Rising grant to Rosalva Aguilar of Tamalería Marías, who tearfully thanked Chase for Business for the grant and dedicated the win to her parents who started the business she is now leading.

Other Chase for Business executives in attendance were Maria Garcia, Regional Managing Director for the North Los Angeles Region, who delivered the keynote address. As well as Lina Munoz, Executive Director for the LA Central Market who closed off the festival with a heartfelt farewell.

L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis, whose support of entrepreneurs in 2020 led to the motion to establish the ELA Entrepreneur Center, understands the importance of honoring business women and she presented commendations to all of LATINAFest’s vending at the festival.

In addition to LATINAFest’s presenting sponsor, Chase for Business, the 4th annual LATINAFest® also counted with the support from: Sephora, Perrier, McDonald’s of Southern California, Verizon Wireless, Square, Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, 1st District, Molina HealthCare, ACTS LLP, Mezcal Mal Bien, Minute Maid Aguas Frescas, Tequila Casa del Sol, Golden Road Brewing, Mujeres Brew House, Red Skirt Wines, KDAY 93.5 FM, KWHY-22, and Gouda Charcuterie Boards.

The 5th annual LATINAFest® returns for International Women’s Month on March 18, 2023. For more information about LATINAFest® and 2023 event updates, please visit: www.latinafest.net. For Sponsorship information email latinafestevents@gmail.com

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The GuadaLAjara Film Festival in Los Angeles (GLAFF), aims to showcases the best of Latinx/e, Latin America and BIPOC cinema as well as serve as a bridge that unifies and connects diverse stories and experiences with the goal of creating a borderless film industry, will return for their 12th Edition in Downtown Los Angeles from September 29th through October 1st, 2022. 

This year, as usual, the programming will include films by Latin American filmmakers that were showcased at their sister festival, the 37th Guadalajara International Film Festival held this past June in Guadalajara, Mexico and a special curated selection of films from Latinx/e and BIPOC filmmakers in the United States. 

“GLAFF’s commitment to support Latino/x/e organizations that are making a difference in our community through activism and organizing is one of our most important achievements. We could not be more honored to have the opportunity to recognize trans civil rights activist Bamby Salcedo with the Arbol de la Vida Lifetime Humanitarian Award”, states Ximena Urrutia, Executive Director of GLAFF. 

Salcedo, who was born and raised in Guadalajara, Mexico, is one of the most visible Latina Transgender Civil Rights Activists in both the United States and Mexico, giving a voice and fighting for the rights and justice of trans Latina and non-binary communities in both countries. Bamby co-founded the national TransLatin@ Coalition in 2009 alongside a group of Transgender, Gender nonconforming and Intersex (TGI) immigrant women in Los Angeles, CA as a grassroots response to address the specific needs of TGI Latin@ immigrants who live in the United States. GLAFF is also thrilled to share that our most recognized and respected Latina activist, legendary civil rights leader Dolores Huerta will be honoring GLAFF with her presence to present Bamby with her award on Closing Night, Saturday, October 1st. 

Some of this year’s highlights include the Mexican-American animation documentary Home is Somewhere Else, as the festival’s Centerpiece Film. Co-directed by Carlos Hagerman and Jorge Villalobos, the feature documentary provides a window into the hearts and minds of young Dreamers and undocumented immigrants in the United States. The story told in the voice of their own protagonists comes to life with stunning imagery, each animated in its unique style.

GLAFF’s Closing Night film will be Omara, a documentary directed by Hugo Pérez, produced by Dana Kuznetzkoff and Frida Torresblanco. The film is a beautiful and intimate portrait of one of Cuba’s most adored national treasures and global musical icon Omara Portuondo.

GLAFF will continue with its Work In Progress (WIP) LATINO program through which the festival has been supporting Latin American Filmmakers for over 7 years. Within the framework of GLAFF’s 12th edition, WIP LATINO 7 will focus on supporting projects that focus on the topics of border, migration, human rights, social and political themes centered around the Latino and Latinx community. This important initiative, which has supported projects that have gone on to have successful festival runs, is made possible by the University of Guadalajara Foundation USA and the festival’s sponsors.

The festival will also be hosting several curated industry masterclasses and a networking industry brunch.

This year the film festival will take place throughout several venues in Downtown Los Angeles, including The Theatre at Ace Hotel, Grand Park, Alamo Drafthouse and The Secret Movie Club. Tickets are available. For a full list of GLAFF’s programming, schedule and to purchase tickets please visit: www.glaff.org.

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(Un)Documents is the lyrical tale of Valles’s journey across both sides of a river with two names, moving between languages to find their place in a nation that demands sacrifice at the altar of citizenship. In doing so, they create a new kind of documentation written with anger, fierce love, and the knowledge that what makes us human can never be captured on a government questionnaire.

Currently based in Providence, Rhode Island, Valles immigrated to the U.S with their family at the age of nine. Their multiple award-winning solo work was adapted from a series of 20 poems they wrote following their brother’s deportation in a workplace raid — poems about their brother, citizenship, identity and the LGBTQ community.

“I learned early on what some people are able to do or unable to do, all based on a few pieces of paper and, you know, some holograms on some plastic,” said Valles in an interview. “(Un)Documents asks the audience rethink how they watch and talk about migrant communities, queer people of color, systems of oppression. And to ask questions of themselves and those in positions of power.”

(Un)Documents opens on Friday, Oct. 14 at 8 p.m., with performances thereafter taking place on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. through November 20. Two preview performances take place on Wednesday, Oct. 12 and Thursday, Oct. 13, each at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $10–$48, except opening night which is $58 and includes a reception, and previews, which are Pay-What-You-Choose starting at $5.

TheLos Angeles Theatre Center is located at 514 S. SpringSt., Los Angeles, CA 90013. Parking is available for $5 with box office validation at Joe’s Parking structure, 530 S. Spring St. (immediately south of the theater).

To purchase tickets and for more information, including up-to-date Covid-19 safety protocols on the day of each performance, call (213) 489-0994 or go to www.latinotheaterco.org.

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By Elia Esparza

On Wednesday, July 1st, California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a new round of lockdown measures as a result of the state’s sharp increase in COVID19 cases. According to Newsom, “The bottom line is the spread of this virus continues at a rate that is particularly concerning”.

With the not so welcomed news about the extension of the quarantine, Gov. Newsom was also recommending everyone to stay-at-home over the holiday.

In spite of all this, The acts of I am still kindness so many people continue to pour out, is a bight spot in an otherwise gloomy outlook. Being kind to others has an uncanny way of making the giver feel better, too. In fact, the more random and unexpected your acts of kindness are, the more they’ll trigger pleasure in your brain.

Once individuals begin doing tiny acts of kindness, in and around your community, chances are they will create new bonds with neighbors, which will have strengthens everyone by the end of this pandemic. We asked friends, colleagues, neighbors, former high school classmates, how they are helping those around them and teh response we received was heartwarming and touching.

This article is my second installment of pandemic/COVID19 related articles, and it proved to be harder this time around because, with the passing of time, it seem now it is more about self-preservation, perseverance, and sheer determination to keep going despite those overwhelming bouts with depression, unemployment, and financial hardships. Still, so many are there to lend a hand.

Even if you currently don’t know all of your neighbors, it’s surprisingly easy to reach out and offer assistance. For me, it has been picking up the mail for an elderly neighbor… it is those simplest of acts of assistance that make all the difference in the world. Just take it from these folks:

Michele Greene
Actor
Partial TV Credits: CSI: Miami, Big Love, Brothers & Sisters, The Unit, LA Law

Well, like many of us I have good days and not so good days dealing with this pandemic. Some days I am overwhelmed by the despair that our country is going through, other days I am hopeful and energized at an opportunity to build a better and more just society. In terms of community, I am revamping my performing and language arts program for at-risk youth and underserved communities to work on-line and writing original theatrical material that can be presented in a Zoom or Skype format to share with a larger audience. In my personal life, I am keeping in touch with several older friends who live alone and doing some grocery shopping for them so they do not have to venture out. I registered as my mom’s caregiver with her retirement community so that I can go by regularly to help her around her apartment and take her out for a drive every week since they have a “no personal visitors” policy right now. And since my teenage son is home every day doing Distance Learning through his school, I am supplementing that with an intensive, daily Spanish lesson and a weekly writing assignment. We have to stay focused on doing good and moving life forward, even as we mourn the suffering in our communities and the world. That is the challenge and we must each do our part to meet it. And of course, VOTE in November!

Lalo Alcaraz
Pulitzer Prize Finalist; Political Cartoonist, L.A. Based

During this pandemic, I have been trying to support people I know, especially local businesses. I patronize my local, usually, dine-in restaurants with take-out orders, and believe me, a family of five supports local restaurants a lot. I supported a local comic book shop by suggesting they make me a Mystery Comics Pack so that I could buy dozens of comic books at a time. I donated money to various fundraisers, especially COVID-19 victims, and even a fund for a bar. Also, I try to tip essential workers extra these days, they deserve it, no matter where they work. Early on in the beginnings of the pandemic, I bought some PPE for two nurses in my social media circles. They promised to share with their fellow health workers. I bought masks from craftspeople trying to make a few extra dollars. But the most important thing I am doing is wearing a mask and limiting my travel outside my home in order to protect people I don’t know. I hope we can all do that, and spread that everywhere. 

James Tumminia
Actor/Producer and sometimes Chef  
Current Credit: All She Wrote (2020 Primetime Emmy® Awards Consideration in Outstanding Television Movie or Limited Series)

Like most things in life, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution or perspective, especially for what we are experiencing now; thankfully, there’s an abundance of them. So many among us are going through the most challenging experiences: losing loved ones they can’t be with, the fear of being or loving someone on the frontlines or the harsh reality of choosing to pay rent or buy food.

To say it feels surreal is an understatement. But what I’m constantly reminded and inspired by is not only the remarkable human spirit but human ingenuity.  Adjusting or pivoting at a moment’s notice can be very difficult and also very effective. Communities all over the world have responded in inventive ways that fill my heart with hope and motivate me to do the same.  It has been life-affirming to hear countless stories about how neighbors used chalk to decorate a neighbor’s driveway to celebrate a child’s birthday that almost went unnoticed…or how newborn babies first met their grandparents through a window. They are lifting each other in meaningful and creative ways, whatever the size.  It has been vital to me to participate in creating joy or providing comfort too. 

I have been using my dormant desire to become a chef by developing new cooking skills; now I deliver the usually successful results to a friend in need of a boost and a plate of bucatini all’amatriciana.  I’ve also done lots of research on how to stay healthy and find coping mechanisms by testing meditation or workout apps – and then I gently “encourage” others to do the same.  And sometimes I just listen. 

Sara Monteagudo Oliveras
Writer/Filmmaker, Spain-based

First and foremost I consider my mother’s health, whom I have had under my care since she had a lung removed in 2007. Of course, there’s also keeping an eye on Monica, the recent widow who lives across the hall from us.

Secondly, our local city hall had made my husband, Iftikhar Ahmed, who is a kebab restaurant owner, the go-to person for newly arrived Syrian refugees in the town of Montcada I Reixac, allocating to each person a food voucher to eat at the restaurant. Well, during the quarantine period, the system, including the city hall was shut down but Ifti went through his phone and called every single one of his customers to make sure that they and their families weren’t going without. We also funded a month’s worth of food for five families with children. My concern is that the milk that is given to the children to not be diluted with water since this could cause parasites. 

In addition, I’ve turned down my acceptance at a UK university and the thesis I was doing on archetypes, folktypes, and stereotypes, that would require extensive interviews I am now turning into a digital show to stream online called Lore Trends. I am currently seeking guests, celebrities, actors, screenwriters, and such who would like to share a folktype or tale that’s culture-specific and that they have in their artillery of creative constructionism “use as a muse” as part of character development in their acting or in their screenwriting and share these in 30-50 seconds.

Enrique Velez
Business Development Director
NEFT Vodka

 It was my neighbor’s father Rudy’s 71st Birthday fathe a few weekends ago.  Our neighbor’s 10-year-old daughter, Renae, asked my 16-year-old daughter, Isabella, to practice a Hula routine with her so they could surprise him for a birthday gift as both the girls attend the same Hula Studio.  They practice a few days in the week prior to Rudy’s visit on a Saturday evening on their first dance was together. Then, Isabella did a solo and Renae finished with a solo.  All while a collage video of pictures of our kids and Renae’s family was playing via a projector onto a wall behind them as the hula music played over a speaker. Rudy and his wife, Carol, were elated when they arrived and saw the performance for him.  Both our families sang Happy Birthday to Rudy with fresh sugar-free, homemade cookies (he’s diabetic) and candles on them. Touching moment as mostly everyone began to cry. This was done in the front yard and even neighbors walking by had stopped to see the routine then we all clapped and cheered at the end. My goodness and pay-it-forward attitude is what I instill in my children and to see my daughter follow my lead to help another in making someone special to them feel extra special during these times is my way of paying it forward.  My family’s actions are a reflection of my wife and I. Yes, all done distantly, six feet apart or more!   

Marlene Dermer
Producer, Writer, Latin Film Programmer
Co-Founder of LPBP.org & Latinofilm.org, LALIFF, Immigrant

In this life-changing challenging times, we are living individually and as humanity, I can’t help feel it’s an incredible opportunity to awaken and reflect on our lives, what we value, who we are and how we can become better.  I’m encouraged by the break that nature is getting to replenish and flourish without us and the abuse and consumption we have done to our world through the last century. The opportunity of self-reflection to face our fears or demons and grow from them when the world doesn’t and instead keep us throwing us forward like a hamster wheel rushing to accomplish everything externally without the caring of our inner self or earth. Of course, as always change or challenge doesn’t come without pain or sacrifice or adapting. My challenge has been not being able to travel, see my family, spend time with friends, and resist not letting the injustices happening to affect me. But ultimately that’s where growth begins, and thanks to most things being on the internet and having the time I’ve discovered ways to help me through the process on social media and even on YouTube. Such as meditation, a holistic Psychologist, an Indian Sage, Healing frequencies, and a few more. In addition, I connect with friends, support my neighbors, and speak with my family.

I feel blessed to have time to write, read, meditate, garden, create things with my hands (making jewelry, candles, painting, drawing) and work on personal projects. In addition to discovering films online and binge watch series, I didn’t have the time for before. Being home isn’t anything new for me as I work from home for the past few years but use my time much better now. What I think the most important thing is to learn to listen to our inner voice, learn to care for ourselves and to find things that make us happy.  I find myself with a renewed desire to create and put my things in order. Ultimately, I think what a gift to be alive and be part of creating a better world for all of us. I believe we can by being grateful, remaining positive, and keeping a high frequency. 

Go inside. Honor your voice. Don’t compare yourself to others. Respect everyone’s individuality and know that everything will be OK. Be aware of external happennings. Resist the dark side and participate in what we can that can bring about positive things.” — Marlene Dermer

Gabriel Reyes
President, Reyes Entertainment

When asked what am I doing to help others during this pandemic, the best answer I can give is ‘I’m caring for myself.’  Not in a selfish way but with the understanding that I can only be of help when I myself am healthy and in a position to help. All of us are affected by the pandemic in one or more ways and although some folks are wealthy enough to ride this through from the safety of their homes, most of us are figuring out how our businesses and our livelihoods will survive the unprecedented economic fallout unleashed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

To be sure, I am helping where I can: Sending money here and there to people in dire need, offering pro bono services. People who know me can vouch for the fact that I’ve dedicated myself to helping others throughout my career. However, at this time, and speaking for myself, the best thing I can do is nurture and maintain my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being first and foremost. Then, I must step up creativity and resourcefulness to help my existing client base navigate this unprecedented time as well as, secure the funding needed to keep my business afloat for the rest of the year. Only then can I turn my attention outward to help others in ways that I am able to. 

Helping others is an idea deeply ingrained in the American psyche. According to World Giving Index, a ranking that measured how residents of 128 countries practice acts of generosity, The United States ranks number one as the most generous country in the world over the past decade. At the top were the U.S., Myanmar and New Zealand. At the bottom were Yemen, Greece and China.

Helping others – charity – is big business in the United States. Charities in the U.S. took in $427.71 billion in 2018. And while I’m sure the overwhelming majority of charity organizations in the U.S. are fiscally responsible, there are probably too many examples of misspent donations or downright fraud among them. Indeed, there are and have been cases involving high-profile charities who can’t explain how funds have been spent. Too many well-meaning Americans donate their money to charities without demanding to know how their funds are being spent. And because Americans are generous and our society puts a large emphasis on helping others, it is easier for our government to refuse benefits to taxpayers. For decades now, efforts to establish programs to help the poor and needy are met with an admonition, calling any push to extract benefits for citizens from the government as “takers that want free stuff.” Many needy Americans are therefore forced to depend on churches and charity organizations to provide the benefits they rightly deserve from the taxes they pay.

I’m helping myself so I can help others but I also want our leaders to step up and provide the citizenry with the resources to get through this period as well as strengthen our system for the future.

Diane Taramasco Hunt & Rich Hunt
Retired San Dieguito District Educator, and Owner & Operator
of Rich Hunt’s Guitar Shop (Escondido, CA)

Rich and I have been helping his father and my mother during this pandemic.  Rich’s dad is 94, and he is not used to staying at home, so it has been difficult for him. He lives about 500 miles away, so Rich calls him at least twice a day to make sure he is staying safe and healthy. My mom is 90, and she also is not used to staying home. I call her once or twice a day just to talk and to see how she is doing. Since she lives nearby, Rich does all her grocery shopping for her, and my sister and I often make her meals. We are lucky that our parents are still active at their ages, but we don’t like them being at home alone without anyone to interact with. A daily telephone call or two helps us all stay connected.

Maria Orozco
Attorney At Law, L.A.-based

I had decided to retire and it was just before the pandemic hit. As such, staying inside was not on my radar. In the first week of retirement, I volunteered at a legal clinic (Episcopalian-run)  to help immigrants attain their citizenship (a week before pandemic hit) but then it closed. But I met the woman who ran the clinic and got the phone number to their online church services. From there, I got involved in a minimal way, with a group who sewed masks for donations. I brought out my old sewing machine, still reliable, and went at it! Since I’m not a great seamstress, but because the need was great, I made an easy-to-sew mask design that could fit a coffee filter inside. I gave them away to family and friends. I made them in irregular sizes for those whose faces were too long, too small, too large for conventional masks. And I’d add a little twist now and then!  I found a fabric store that allowed us to enter a few at a time so I went and bought funky pin-on or sew-on button bees or flowers for nature lovers or used heart patterns for those kindred souls and cat faces for cat lovers. I’m still looking for the dog fabric [chuckles]. Other than that, I must say that the quiet has been good for the soul. Instead of feeling hyper and needing to go “somewhere”, I now simply enjoy quiet time, meditating, being with immediate family, listening to music or going for long walks. It’s actually very soothing. 

Lexie Grace
Actor, Comedienne

I have dropped off food to some friends, put a few dollars in my friends’ Venmos, and called my friends to make them smile. Also, I did a big collab with a lot of my friends to do a variety show to lift people’s spirits.

Hector Aponte
Salsa Singer Extraordinaire

I have been a salsa singer for over 50 years and this is the first time I’ve had to encounter a difficult time that has greatly altered the normal lifestyles we’ve become accustomed to living by. Mentally, it has taken its toll. I’ve read of many colleagues dying because of this horrid virus and this I must admit has got many of us a little paranoid. When I go out shopping, I stay a safe distance from people. And, this is hard to do since as an artist, I’m used to being surrounded by a lot of people. On a personal level, it has been extremely hard because I am not working with my musician bandmates nor am I able to travel abroad for performing gigs. Everything stopped cold. The industry has collapsed. And, most unnerving is the uncertainty as to how this pandemic and all of us are going to survive. My heart goes out to everyone because I understand how difficult this time has been. I am an artist used to always having people around me but this situation probably will make all of us more cognizant of my surroundings and probably a bit rude. I hope not but we will see what future awaits us. Stay strong, everyone.

Marilyn Alverio
Founder, Latinas & Power Symposium

I pulled out a sewing machine I had originally purchased for my daughter as a high school grad present but took it back when she lost interest. While I hadn’t sewed in 30 years, I went on Youtube and learned how to sew the much-needed masks. I followed the instructions and the masks just started to fly off my machine. What inspired me, in the beginning, is that my niece is a nurse and when this all came down, she sent an SOS to her family and friends that they were down to the last of masks and asked if we could sew up masks and donate them back to designated nurses from our local doctors and medical facilities. It felt good to contribute in this way. The old sewing machine came in handy.

Juan Bueno
Filmmaker, Director, Writer, Poet
Producer/Director of Amorous Pancho Villa

“No me aburro. Un burro se aburre.”
Far from the madding crowd, I find truth in that old saying that you are never finished with a book. A book that does not hold your interest is put aside after the first chapter. But those that capture your attention will remain your friends forever. I can’t find enough time to read and reread “Don Quijote de la Mancha” like I can’t help but go back to Swift’s “Gulliver’s Travels” or Sterne’s “Tristram Shandy” when I seek the wisdom of the British Isles.

In these Corona times, I have sought refuge visiting that old friend, Don Miguel De Cervantes Saavedra, whose perfect dissection of the human spirit in its middle state, “darkly wise and rudely great,” that immediately after finishing reading the masterpiece, draws me to read it again and again.“Ay, pero que’ bobo eres si te llegas a aburrir, habiendo tantos que haceres en tan poquito vivir.”

John C. Freeman
City Councilperson of San Juan Bautista, CA 

Personally, I try and set a good example by wearing a mask or N95 covering to protect others if I should have the disease when I leave my house.   I try and stay in and only venture out once a week to shop for necessities and food. I actively encourage others to do the same on social media.

Officially, I have four or five meetings a week involving the city, county, and many other governmental organizations I am a member of, all are by Zoom or Cisco Webex. I am busy either preparing for them or participating in them. Many decisions are being made that will affect all people in this area for the next year or so. I try to balance everything, between our physical health and safety and the economy. It is not easy as there is no real model for what is happening. Similar pandemics happened in societies that were very different than ours (1918 Spanish Flu epidemic for example).  I do for the most part follow the science and the recommendations of the Public Health Officers. I see our society is divided by sociological forces or a political divide that is causing great harm to civil society. I often wonder if I can do more in helping our society come together and I do I have the right personality to do it?

John Rouleau
Global Director of Training & CEO of GreatCulture

I think of my response this way: What am I doing to help those in my household, my community, my work, and the larger world, the human family?

I live part-time with my wife and sixteen-year-old daughter, and part-time in the Silicon Valley for my work in a tech company there. Sure, with COVID’s rapid onslaught, layoffs at work were possible. With tremendous individual effort and results, with this potentiality in mind, I was able to survive the layoffs and continue to provide income and benefits for us all. Luck of course is a part of this as well, no doubt. This keeps the stress down, good for vigorous health. My wife appreciates the minimum stress from my work stability. I also participate in deep cleaning in the home. Every day, another deep clean somewhere in the house. I spend as much time as she’ll have me with my daughter to reduce her requests to leave the home to visit friends. We take long walks together at least five times a week. She’s is in better shape over the past three months of walking. Of course, I also strive to keep good cheer whilst at home, stay lighthearted, even as work is intense and demands long hours. We all practice physical distancing according to guidelines.

My mother is very elderly and living alone. I call her at least three times a week to talk politics and make sure she knows I’m thinking of her. For my community, it’s simple, but I always wear a face mask when out and often wear nitrile gloves. I’ve also contributed cash for PPE drives and canned foods for the places which provide such to those needing help. I am aware that folks are under stress and sudden change, may be experiencing mental health issues, and I take a soft approach. Non-aggressive driving, for example. Not stopping in crosswalks.

For my work, as for my team, I lead them with the same high expectations I set for myself, and I tell them why, and share my strategy to ensure we are all seen as “essential.” I secure their buy-in, and, as a result, they all are still employed as well. Further, I keep one-on-one sessions with each person who reports to me each week and has gotten to know their loved ones, makes sure to ask how all are doing. Keep the “human” side alive and vital. We talk about how they are doing with the quarantine, spouses losing jobs, etc.. They know I care about them as real people. As a result, we are highly productive, well-respected, and employed. For the larger world, the things I mention above positively impact the world as our effects ripple outward. I also contribute financially to various causes which are specifically targeting COVID needs in targeted areas.

Stay home — consider all those CDs of fabulous music you own, or perhaps watching classic movies, sipping the night away on some fine wine.

Let’s all be a part of the solution that helps to turn this perilous situation, and quickly.

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“If you ain’t got tatted by Cartoon, you ain’t got no tat. If you ain’t get shot by Estevan, you got a weak photographer.” – Snoop Dogg

Over the years, Netflix has become a surprising mainstreaming platform for promoting Latino created and orientated streaming content, in both English and Spanish internationally. One of its newest documentaries, LA Originals highlights the cultural impact of two Chicano artists, graffiti/tattoo artist Mister Cartoon and photographer/director Estevan Oriol. Examining how their combined artistic abilities brought Los Angeles street art culture from the underground into the mainstream, nationally and internationally. 

Mister Cartoon started drawing at a young age, showing skills beyond his years. Inspired by hip-hop, LA culture, ethnic identity and prison art, he spent his teen years mastering his eye-catching signature graffiti art style, despite the legal ramifications for his art. Ultimately, he became a fixture and underground celebrity in the LA and west coast graffiti art scenes. Building a reputation as a graffiti and airbrush artist, Cartoon branched out into mural art and album cover art. Then, found tattooing, giving birth to the striking new wave of gray scale Chicano infused tattoos. His list of tattooed clients varies from hip-hip icons (Dr. Dre, 50 Cent and Eminem), punk rockers (Blink-182), pop divas (Christina Aguilera and Beyoncé) and NBA icon Kobe Bryant. Today, Cartoon continues to be a highly sought-after artist, especially for his tattoos, exotic custom lowriders, and original art for major companies (Nike and T-Mobile).  

Estevan Oriol gained an interest in photography through his father, who was a photographer. As a road manager for live music tours, he took pictures and film, capturing candid moments behind the scenes and the mayhem of a live show. Oriol’s exceptional talent in photography lead to these photos being sold and featured in music magazines (Vibe, FHM, and Rolling Stone), bring his work international recognition. Over the years, he has become a world-renowned photographer, with work featured on album covers (Snoop Dogg’s Ego Trippin’) and movie posters (Righteous Kill). Diving into directing, Oriol has directed music videos (Cypress Hill, “Dr. Greenthumb” and Blink 182, “Down”) as well as this documentary, LA Originals. Among his work, he’s best known for his distinct images of the diversity of Los Angeles, capturing everything from the glamour of Hollywood, to the culture of East L.A. and the gritty streets of Skid Row.

From the moment Cartoon and Oriol met, this dynamic duo combined their creative abilities, illuminating each other’s talent. Although Cartoon already had an underground following for this graffiti and airbrushing art, it was Oriol’s photography which brought him global acclaim for his tattooing, and documented his artistic history. Together, they founded S.A. Studios, housed in a large studio in Skid Row, to be the center of their artistic endeavors. Despite this large studio was closed due to the economic recession of 2008, both Cartoon and Oriol continued to create, collaborate, and keep S.A. Studios alive. 

For years, mainstream culture, have perceived Chicano culture as just a poor and violent sub-culture of LA Latino culture. While Chicano culture has its darker side, like any other culture, Chicano art, like Hip-Hop by African American artists, displays the intelligence, strength and resilience of the people. Especially those who have to struggle and fight for a respected place at the table. Proving how anyone can be inspired by their surroundings and cultural history, to create breathtaking art. Cartoon and Oriol use their unique talents as a team and as individuals to show the complex beauty of Chicano culture and inject this prospective into their other creative endeavors. 

LA Originals is an eye-opening experience. It’s a heartwarming and encouraging story, while also a raw and difficult journey. Cartoon and Oriol’s rebellious art helped to revolutionized modern hip-hop culture and bring LA street culture to the world. Their influence can be seen internationally, in East LA inspired subcultures scenes in Japan, China, Germany, and South America. These two Chicano art masters have and will continue to impact American culture for years to come. An important art documentary, essential to the history of Latinos in America.    

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