Category: Features

Features

Coping with mental health

Philip J. Perez

Navigating through life with love and support Editor’s Note: Due to the nature and sensitivity of mental health, we have chosen not to reveal last names of the participants in this story. This is part 2 of 2. Common mental health disorders for Latinos include anxiety disorder, major depression, PTSD and substance abuse, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Cultural taboos and stigmas keep many in the Latino community from seeking help. The perception, according to an article on Medical News Today, is that seeking outside help is inappropriate, embarrassing or even shameful.  The article adds that potential…

Community, Features

Living life, one dance at a time

Melissa Nicole Mata

Locally owned small business dance studio shows a lot of potential  In a small strip center near Saratoga Boulevard, practically camouflaged by being tucked between an apartment complex and a Walmart Supercenter, is a small independently owned dance studio. Just inside the door visitors can hear upbeat music playing and the sounds of many associated feet trying to keep count of 5, 6, 7 and 8 being called out by studio owner and dance instructor Angela Murray. Murray stands out, clearly the dance authority in a room filled with couples dressed in mostly jeans, boots and other attire you might…

Features

Breaking cultural barriers

Philip J. Perez

Overcoming the stigma of mental health in the Latino community Editor’s Note: Due to the sensitivity of mental health issues, we have chosen not to reveal last names of the participants in this story. This is part 1 of 2. For many children, the spectacle of watching your parents get ready for a night on the town can be a bit overwhelming to the senses. The preparation in front of the mirror, the selection of the right outfits and the aromas of overlapping perfumes and colognes leave a memorable impression in a child’s life.  Most often, this memory of confusion…

Campus, Education, Features

Future bright for welding student

Melissa Nicole Mata

 Even though Joe Cruz was born with just one hand, he learned early on in life he could accomplish anything he set his mind too.  “I never felt different until I was learning to tie my shoes,” Cruz said. “Trying to tie my shoes was the first time I realized I had to figure things out on my own and find different ways to learn these skills.”  Cruz said his parents have always been “a part of my life when it comes to encouragement.” He said his parents have always pushed him to overcome obstacles and not let anything hold…