ASB readies for election, voting is sparse
Marlene Chavez
Issue date: 5/15/09 Section: News
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Running for ASB President were Pascale Romero, Sammy Castillo, and Brent Sanchez. For vice president, the candidates were Michael Tovar and Brenda Catarino while treasure candidates were Linda Gonzalez and Eduardo Hernandez. All nine ASB Senator candidates included Alex Serna III, Guang Jun "Jerry" Sui, Alyssa Martinez, Desiree Garcia, Luis Castaneda, Carlos Flores, Ivan Gonzalez, Daniel Kuo, and Kimmy Castillo. Board of Trustees student member, also known as the student trustee, candidates were Julio Rene Flores and Alejandra Guzman.
There were an estimated 25 students that were at the Campus Inn while a number of other students also lunched near by, creating a somewhat noisy atmosphere as the candidates spoke and sometimes causing distractions. Typically more student involvement and interest was expected at the Campus Inn, had there been more exposure and promotion about the speeches.
Despite the looming elections the next day, El Paisano dominated a fair portion of the speeches, partially due to the controversy stirred by a recent opinion piece in "Dan's Den". Castillo stated her views about a recent opinion's article that was published on El Paisano and asked the rest of the candidates what they thought. Some of the candidates were stating how now more students are aware of ASB because of the article.
"I would like to thank El Paisano, because now we have more recognition," said Romero. Others voiced concerns that the opinion piece contained inaccuracies and expressed their wishes to eliminate any wrong information in the future. However, Brent Sanchez attempted to mend the relations between the organizations: "Who says ASB and El Paisano doesn't have a good relationship?"
ASB candidates mentioned more student involvement is necessary in the upcoming year. They are welcoming students to the activities office and to their meetings that they host every Friday. Romero said as being ASB President she will "open the doors to all students to advocate and be a part of the issues that are brought up at Rio Hondo College."
Also, the ASB candidates made it clear if there is ever a problem that needs to be brought to the attention of ASB, the student activities office has open doors to every student with concerns.
"In the past it has been very difficult for the students of Rio Hondo College to meet with and talk with the President of ASB," said Sanchez "I am here to let you know that I am here for you. Stop me in the halls and I will listen."
Fellow candidate Sammy Castillo, who is also running for ASB President brought forth on Friday May 8 at the ASB meeting an issue that was titled "ASB stand against El Paisano school news paper." The purpose of this was "to poll the Rio Hondo student body and question the validity of the news paper." This is one of the very many concerns that ASB candidates stress on so students can get correct information. "I am here to listen to the students and speak on their behave, let our voices be heard," said Castillo.
Treasurer candidate Hernandez stressed the importance of the treasurer's job in ASB. "Not only will I show you what we spend our money on, but also how much is projected to spend," said Hernandez upon his position if elected ASB treasure. Linda Gonzalez who is also running for ASB treasurer stated how she is "good with numbers" and likes math.
When asked for a quote about the elections and what he hopes for the upcoming year, Ernesto Zumaya declined to state.
Results for the election will be available seven school days after the last day of the elections.
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