City: Los Angeles
Position Seeking: City Council – District 7

Question 1: Please share a meaningful experience you had with art (visual, dance, drama, music, media arts) while growing up and its impact on you.

I’m a big fan of music and dance, of performing arts altogether. growing up I was inspired by artist. The first being Ritchie Valens , because he comes from my home town of Pacoima. a city of Los Angeles located in the San Fernando Valley. His music and artist alike from Rockabilly to Mowtown artist. They all had a significant impact on me, so much I collaborated with others and helped Ritchie Valens get inducted to the Rock &Roll Hall of Fame. As a community organizer I’ve booked numerous live acts who were Motown Legends or Tribute to Motown Legend artist. these events helped raise money to support other community events like the Annual Veterans Parade I founded , Youth Football league I founded and coach for and an annual Triathlon that support children with autisim. As Council member I’ll be working with organization that support the arts. I want help them bring the arts to the schools. A much needed effort due to the fact that schools are largely underfunded. I want to change that.

Question 2: What do you believe the role of City Council should be in developing and supporting the region’s arts and cultural infrastructure?

Its a very important role, the office should do all we can do to provide resources for Arts & Entertainment, for schools, Community theater, and Young Musicians.

The Council office can be the liaison between those in need of help from Cultural affairs dept. When seeking funds, resources or guidance.

The Council office can develop opportunities for performing artist of all genres
Work at preserving the history of local cultural arts and the artist that come form their districts.

Question 3: What’s your vision for the city? What role, if any, does art and culture play in advancing that vision?

When it comes to the Arts. I do have a vision. I’d like to help develop opportunities that benefit the community as a whole. BY bringing Concerts or outdoor cultural festivals that include Music, Dance and Urban Artist.. I want to provide an alternative place for our youth to showcase their talent , other than the streets where life can be dangerous sometimes. After school programs is something the council office can help develop.

Questions 4: A recent report by the Otis College of Design found that 1 in every 6 jobs in LA County supports the creative sector and economy in Los Angeles County. If elected, how will you aim to ensure the continued vitality and growth of the creative economy and the artistic community that it supports?

If elected the opportunity will be to engage with organizations and groups who are already the backbone of the artistic community, CD7 has a diverse group of people from preschool to retired seniors that enjoy performing and are very creative. I’d like to see those talents showcased weekly if possible. I would welcome Arts for LA and other Organizations to partner with the office to help make this happen.