Standing at only 5' 5" and 122 pounds, 27-year-old boxer Daniel Ponce De Leon packs a punch that has knocked out nearly all of his opponents. Growing up in Mexico in extreme poverty and now living as a professional boxer in Huntington Park, Daniel learned early on how to fight like a champion in more ways than one. As an infant, he nearly died from health problems and poor access to healthcare. Today, he has signed on with Oscar De La Hoya's company, Golden Boy Promotions, and was the reigning world champion in the WBO's Super Bantamweight division for three years. He recently lost his title to Puerto Rican Boxer Juan Manuel Lopez, but he's definitely one to watch.
For more information on Daniel, visit: http://www.goldenboypromotions.com/fighters/deleon.php
"HOMEBOY'S" ANNIVERSARY
This year marks the 20th anniversary of "Homeboy Industries," a program offering at-risk and gang-involved youth free services and programs to help redirect their lives. Created in 1988 by Father Greg Boyle, the idea behind "Homeboy Industries" was a result of a search for answers to rising gang violence in the Boyle Heights neighborhood. Father Boyle decided to develop services including counseling, educational training, job training and tattoo removal, all in order to help local youth make better choices. The program is free as long as the individual wants to make a positive change and is no longer involved with any gang-related activities. "Homeboy" has created thriving businesses including "Homeboy Bakery," "Homegirl Café" and a gift shop, which are all run by its members.
For more information about Homeboy Industries, its businesses or services, visit:
Homeboy Industries
130 W. Bruno Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(323) 526-1254
REVIVING AN ORIGINAL
"La Fonda on Wilshire," a Mexican restaurant formally known as "La Fonda," re-opened its doors in February under new ownership after its closure in October 2007. Since 1969, this eatery had entertained tourists and locals with live mariachi music as guests dined. Today, the music continues with a new musical group called "Mariachi Monumental de America." Although the restaurant has been remodeled, the spirit and old-style charm of the original eatery was kept in mind.
To visit or make reservations:
LA FONDA ON WILSHIRE
2501 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90057
(213) 380-5055
ANNUAL MARIACHI FESTIVAL
"Mariachi USA" is an annual musical festival held at the Hollywood Bowl. The celebration of Mexico's traditional music was created in 1989 by Rodri Rodriguez, a producer and visionary who wanted to harness the popularity of mariachi music, where family and friends could come together to enjoy some of the best mariachi music from all over the world.
To buy tickets for the 19th Annual "Mariachi USA Festival" on June 21, 2008 visit or call:
www.mariachiusa.com
(800) MARIACHI
