Pomona's Promise Network Podcast

Episode # 20 Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps In-Studio Guest: Renee Barbee

Welcome to the Pomona's Promise Network Podcast, where we explore stories of innovation, community, and the pursuit of a brighter future.
Exploring Local News with Renee Barbee of La Nueva Voz Join host Andrew Quinones on the Pomona Promise Network Podcast as he engages in an insightful conversation with special guest Renee Barbee, representing La Nueva Voz. In this episode, dive into the heart of Pomona, California, as we discuss the latest developments, events, and community initiatives shaping our vibrant city. From cultural celebrations to local governance, we explore the pulse of Pomona and its diverse neighborhoods. Renee Barbee brings her unique perspective and insider knowledge, offering valuable insights into the fabric of our community. Whether you're a longtime resident or simply curious about Pomona's dynamic landscape, this podcast provides an engaging platform to stay informed and connected. Tune in to the Pomona Promise Network Podcast for an enriching dialogue that celebrates the spirit of our city and highlights the voices driving positive change. Subscribe now and be part of the conversation!

This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

a special Thanks to our productions crew,

Lindsey Preciado and Andrew Morris

Film Students from University of La Vern

Title: "Decoding Pomona's Measure P"Description:Join host Andy Q in the latest episode of 3P Studio Podcast as he sits down with Larry Ortega to dissect Pomona's Measure P. In this insightful discussion, they delve into the intricacies of the upcoming decision facing Pomona voters, who will determine the fate of a 0.75% sales tax increase originally approved in 2018. Measure P, placed on the March 5 ballot by the Pomona City Council, holds significant implications for the city's essential services, including 911 emergency response, police, fire, crime prevention, library services, park and road maintenance, and homelessness services. Learn about the background of Measure P, its proposed extension, and the competing Measure X, which aims to adjust the tax increase while addressing the city's fiscal landscape. Don't miss this crucial conversation shedding light on the future of community resources in Pomona.

Welcome to Positive Pomona Productions, your go-to channel for uplifting community content in the vibrant City Pomona. Led by Andy Q. and his talented youth mentees, our production studio is dedicated to showcasing the incredible people, organizations, and causes that make our community shine. Join us as we celebrate the positive side of Pomona and inspire others to make a difference. Subscribe now for heartwarming stories, inspiring interviews, and a whole lot of positivity!

Episode # 19
Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps
In-Studio Guest: Roscoe Lee Owens

Welcome to the Pomona's Promise Network Podcast, where we explore stories of innovation, community, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

I'm your host, Andrew Quinones, and today we have a truly inspiring guest with us, Roscoe Lee Owens.

Welcoming Roscoe, a beacon of passion and resilience, whose journey embodies the unwavering pursuit of purpose and the transformative power of art. From a fervent love for life emerged a commitment to higher learning, leading Roscoe to delve into the realm of Social & Therapeutic Art Process during his college years. Drawing inspiration from diverse mentors in business, art, and music, he embraced a philosophy of learning by doing, shaping his craft through immersive experiences. Roscoe's narrative is one of profound connection, where the art of sharing and communication intertwines seamlessly with his creative endeavors. Guided by the wisdom of his young son and mentor, KeJohnna Owens, he echoes the mantra: "Do it to the level of your faith," infusing his every endeavor with depth, purpose, and boundless faith in the transformative potential of the arts.

Episode # 18

Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps
In-Studio Guest: Jose Zapata Calderon

Welcome to the Pomona's Promise Network Podcast, where we explore stories of innovation, community, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

I'm your host, Andrew Quinones, and today we have a truly inspiring guest with us, Professor Jose Zapata Calderon.

Meet Dr. Jose Guillermo Zapata Calderon – Emeritus Professor in Sociology and Chicano Studies at Pitzer College, President of the Latino and Latina Roundtable of the Pomona Valley and San Gabriel Valley, and a dedicated advocate for immigrant rights. With roots as the son of immigrant farm workers, his journey intertwines academic excellence with community organizing, participatory action research, and coalition building. From defeating English Only movements to holding endowed chairs, his impactful career spans decades. Recognized for his commitment, he has received numerous awards, including the Richard E. Cone Award for cultivating community partnerships and the Si Se Puede award from the United Farm Worker's Union. Join us in celebrating a visionary leader shaping education and human rights advocacy. 🌟📚 #CommunityLeader #Advocate #ChicanoStudies #ImmigrantRights This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode # 17

Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps 

In-Studio Guest: Julie Wheeler and Alex Morales

Welcome to the Pomona's Promise Network Podcast, where we explore stories of innovation, community, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

Featuring your host Andrew Quinones, along with special guests Julie Wheeler and Alex Morales. In this engaging video, we delve into the inspiring work of Pomona Re-Imagined, a community group on a mission to empower Pomona by addressing grand challenges through innovation, collaboration, celebration, and diverse voices.

Discover the hearts behind Pomona Re-Imagined's mission, as Andrew interviews Julie Wheeler and Alex Morales about who they are and the driving force behind their dedication. Get an exclusive insight into the organization's vision, aiming to transform the Pomona community into a haven for compassion, mutual care, respect, justice, creativity, collaboration, and sustainability.

Pomona Re-Imagining extends a unique invitation for your organization to take the lead as the host for the Grand Challenge Conference, an opportunity to shine a bright light on Pomona's challenges and work towards solutions. As the Lead Host Organization, you will play a crucial role in bringing forth an engaging, inspirational, and informative conference that incorporates innovative ideas, community perspectives, and collaboration.

Responsibilities of the Lead Host Organization include planning the conference, identifying and contracting presenters, and creating a conference planning committee. Pomona Re-Imagining, in turn, offers support by providing $2500 in funding, an Advisory Group for valuable insights, and assistance in securing a suitable venue with audio, visual, and translation support. Additionally, they will handle publicity for the event and even provide food if needed.

Be part of this transformative journey as we explore how Pomona Re-Imagined and your organization can collaborate to create positive change in the community. Your leadership and participation in the Grand Challenge Conference will contribute to the ongoing work of bringing innovation, collaboration, diverse voices, and tangible solutions to Pomona.

Episode # 16 Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps In-Studio Guest: Larry Orgega

Welcome to the Pomona's Promise Network Podcast, where we explore stories of innovation, community, and the pursuit of a brighter future.

I'm your host, Andrew Quinones, and today we have a truly inspiring guest with us, Mr. Larry Ortega. Larry is not only a 35-year veteran in technology but also the founder of Community Union, Inc., an organization dedicated to bridging the digital divide. With a mission to ensure all families, regardless of race or income, have high-speed fiber-optic access to online resources, Larry has been a pioneer in moving people towards technology. In this episode, we dive into Larry's journey, from his early days in Los Angeles, to his impactful work in Pomona and beyond. He shares insights from his extensive experience, having trained over 35,000 parents and children living in the digital divide. Larry's commitment to community empowerment is evident in projects like "Fiber-Up My Neighborhood," where he is actively contributing to the deployment of a world-class telecommunication infrastructure, ensuring safety and financial protocols are in place. We also explore Larry's foresight, notably his 2012 warning about the consequences of a telecommunication bill, and how the events that unfolded during the COVID-19 pandemic validated his predictions on the failures of deregulation. Join us as we unravel the layers of Larry Ortega's life, filled with wisdom, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the miracles that happen when we embrace the spirit of service and love. This is Pomona's Promise Network Podcast, where every story shapes the promise of a better tomorrow.This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 Episode # 15 Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps In-Studio Guest: Hector Lopez Today's Sponsors include: SoCalServiceCorps.org-Positive Pomona Productions Studio Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better. To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com. This video was created with love @ the Positive Pomona Productions Studio, by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

"Welcome back to our show, folks! Today, we have an exciting episode lined up for you as we dive into the details of the upcoming 3rd annual kindness carnival. Set to take place on October 14 at 2pm, this event promises to be a heartwarming experience for the entire community.

On today's episode, we'll be having a captivating conversation about Compassionate Pomona and the concept behind the kindness carnival. Join us as we explore the significance of spreading kindness and compassion in our community, and how this event aims to bring people together in a spirit of love and understanding.

So, grab your headphones and get ready to be inspired by the incredible stories and initiatives that will be showcased at the kindness carnival. We'll be discussing the various activities, workshops, and performances that you can look forward to, all aimed at fostering a sense of unity and empathy among attendees.

Tune in to our podcast as we delve into the heartwarming world of the 3rd annual kindness carnival, and discover how you can be a part of this incredible event. Stay tuned, folks!"

Pomona Promise Podcast 2023

Episode # 14

Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps
In-Studio Guest: Senator Susan Rubio, Pomona Police Chief Michael Ellis, Joshua and Chara Swodeck, Renee Barbee and Jeff Schenkel

Today's Sponsors include: La Nueva Coz, and the SoCalServiceCorps.org-Positive Pomona Productions Studio
Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano

Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services.

At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better.

To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com.

This video was created with love @ the Positive Pomona Productions Studio, by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

POMONA

SPECIAL EVENT

JUNE 13 2023 Fox Theater Pomona Arts Colony

Mayor Tim Sandoval State of the City Address

Episode # 13

Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps In-Studio Guest: Daniel Fong & Nikki from Day One

Today's Sponsors include: Day One Pomona's Promise, and the SoCalServiceCorps.org-Positive Pomona Productions Studio Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better. To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com. This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode # 12

SPECIAL EDITION PODCAST Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps In-Studio Guest: Elena Quinones Mafla

Today my mother, Elena Mafla visited the P3 Studio to interview her son, the host, Andy Q, on his birthday.

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

"I am because you are" Today's Sponsors include: the SoCalServiceCorps.org-Positive Pomona Productions Studio Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better. To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com. This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode # 11 Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps In-Studio Guest: All Children Thrive Pomona (ACT Pomona) Youth Group Today's Sponsors include: ACT CA, Pomona's Promise, and the SoCalServiceCorps.org-Positive Pomona Productions Studio Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better. To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com. This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode # 10

Pomona Promise Podcast 2023

 Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps

In-Studio Guest: Christina Jimenez, Project Sisters

Today's Sponsors include: Project Sisters, and the SoCalServiceCorps.org-Positive Pomona Productions Studio

Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano

Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants

Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better. To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com.

This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode # 9 Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps In-Studio Guest: Laura Burgis, PhD The Human Values Center Today's Sponsors include: the Human Values Center, and the SoCalServiceCorps.org -Positive Pomona Productions Studio Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano (lighting & cameras) Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better. To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com. This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode #8 Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 Prepare Pomona Edition - Disaster Readiness Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps In-Studio Guest: Rev. Rene Martin Today's Sponsors include: SoCalServiceCorps.org -Positive Pomona Productions Studio Studio Production: Andy Quiñones and crew Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better. To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com. This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode #7 Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 Hosted by Andrew Quinones of the SoCal Service Corps

In-Studio Guest: Victor Caceres of the Youth & Family Club of Pomona Valley

Today's Sponsors include: the Club Pomona, and the SoCalServiceCorps.org -Positive Pomona Productions Studio

Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano (lighting & cameras)

Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants

Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home. Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better. To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com. This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode #6

Pomona Promise Podcast 2023

Pomona's Promise Economic Development Edition 

Hosted by Jeff Johannsen of Pomona Hope 

In-Studio Guest: Monique Manzanares, President & CEO of the Pomona Chamber of Commerce

 Today's Sponsors include: the Pomona Chamber of Commerce, Pomona Hope, and the SoCalServiceCorps.org -Positive Pomona Productions Studio  

Studio Production: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano (lighting & cameras)    

Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants  

Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home.  Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better.  To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com.    

This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode #5  

Prepare Pomona's Community Saftey Edition Compression CPR Demonstration  

 Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 Hosted & Produced by Andrew Quinones SoCal Service Corp 

In-Studio Guest: Paulette M Young, BA/RCP CEO/Trainer/Instructor of Health Care Consultants    

Today's Sponsor Health Care Consultants, Pomona.  

Healthcareconsultantscpr@gmail.com or Hcc-cpr.com  

SoCalServiceCorps.org     

Positive Pomona Productions Studio  Studio Assistance: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano (lighting & cameras)    Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants 

Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. 

At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home.  Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better.  To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com.    

This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org

Episode #4  

Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 

Hosted by Chairman Jeff Johannsen of Pomona Hope & Produced by Andrew Quinones SoCal Service Corp   

In-Studio Guest: Khalif Rasshan of the African American Museum of Beginnings    

Today's Sponsor African American Museum of Beginnings, Pomona  

Pomona Hope @ www.PomonaHope.org  SoCalServiceCorps.org     

Positive Pomona Productions Studio 

Studio Assistance: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano (lighting & cameras)    

Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants 

Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home.  Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better.  To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com.    

Episode #3  

Pomona Promise Podcast 2023 Hosted by Chairman Jeff Johannsen of Pomona Hope Cohost by Andrew Quinones SoCal Service Corp 

In-Studio Guest: Gary Lett, Pomona Artist Extraordinaire    

Gary Lett working Artist. Sculpture, ceramic, murals, ceramic instructor, illustrator, children's book author. Community Outreach etc. How are you connected to Pomona Promise Initiative? 

Today's Sponsor  Letts Do Art   

Pomona Hope @ www.PomonaHope.org

SoCalServiceCorps.org   

Positive Pomona Productions Studio  Studio Assistance: Andy Quiñones, Angel Arellano (lighting & cameras)  

Scheduling of guest Paulette Young CEO of Health Care Consultants

Pomona's Promise Community Engagement Board (CEB) is a monthly meeting open for community partners and residents to learn and engage with one another about services, resources, and the overall work of Pomona’s Promise. This is also a place for the community to raise any concerns or ideas about issues in Pomona and receive updates on partner programs and services. At Pomona’s Promise, anyone who wants to work toward the well-being of our city will find a home.  Whether your passion is for education, career readiness, healthy lifestyles and access to healthcare, economic development, community safety, or community engagement, you will find like-minded people who are taking action to make our city better.  To get involved in any of the initiatives of Pomona's Promise, and/or to learn about Pomona's Promise Leadership Team (PPLT) and its meetings, please send a message to communityengagement.pp@gmail.com.  

This video was created with love by Andy Q of the SoCalServiceCorps.org