Editorial – INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP DAY By Carlos Takashima, Program Coordinator at NELA
Originally founded by the greeting card industry as a gimmick to sell more cards, International Friendship Day has had an interesting history. It has evolved into different things in different countries. It was started in the US and held some popularity for a couple of years until it finally died out in the middle of the 20th century. However, it began to catch popularity again in recent times in Southeast Asia. It’s made a comeback more recently in western countries due to social media networks, and is mostly celebrated on the first Sunday of August in most countries.
Some people may view such holidays as another way to get money from consumers, and they may be right in some ways. Whatever your feelings may be about the commercialization of friendship, it’s important to have a reminder that we have people around us that care about our well being and happiness. They may not be part of your blood family, but they are the family you get to choose. Friends are the people that bring excitement and joy to our daily lives. Friends are the people we spend our free time with, support us when we’re down, and cheer us on in our success. So rather than focus on companies trying to get some money from us, think about it from a point of gratitude for those that make our lives complete. Take your friend out to lunch or just call them to say “You mean so much to me.” In the end, your friends would prefer to hear that from you than a greeting card. Happy International Friendship Day!
Language Systems Lifestyle: – Summer Party By Michelle Buell, Academic Director
On Friday, July 15th, Language Systems had its annual Summer Celebration at the Samba Brazilian Steakhouse in Redondo Beach, California! The evening started off with an appetizing buffet and a beautiful sunset along the pier. Students from all four schools had a chance to mingle and socialize while enjoying delicious Brazilian food and a gorgeous view!
Discover LA (NELA) By Carlos Takashima, Program Coordinator at NELA
If you’re ever interested in learning salsa dancing or just watching high level dancers, Alhambra is the place for you. I know some people are confused because Alhambra is known for its excellent Chinese food and other great food options, but you would be surprised to learn that it has one of the coolest and most respected salsa scenes in LA.
The Granada is a nightclub/dance studio located in the heart of Alhambra’s central area on Main St. They offer dance classes and put on excellent events for people to come out and put those legs to good use or just come and admire the skill level and beauty of this art. They will be holding several events on Saturday, August 13th. From 11:30am – 2:30 pm they will be offering free classes all day (Salsa, swing, ballroom, bachata); No partner necessary and all ages welcome. In the evenings, they will be holding a solo dancing competition, so come on and check out some high level dance moves.
Free in LA (NELA)
CHEAP, OUTDOOR, OR FREE EVENTS IN LA (NELA) – AUGUST 2016
- $1 Angels Game – August 12, 2016 – Angels Stadium
- Echo Park Rising – August 15-17, 2016 – All Over Echo Park (Free Music and discounts on food)
- LA taco festival – August 20, 2016 – Grand Park
- Eventrockit Food Market – August 23, 2016 – Eventrockit Food Market Lot
- Pandora summer Crush (Featuring Fergie, 5 Seconds of Summer & Daya – L.A. Live
- Rooftop Cinema Series on South Lake 2016 (Hook) – August 20, 2016 – Corporate Center Pasadena
Language Systems Faces – Interview with teacher Medea Beal (NELA) By Almugarry, Rakan – ESL Morning Level 5
1)When did you start working for LSI?
I started as a sub last year, but now I’ve been working part time since last month.
2) Why did you decide to become an English teacher?
I decided to become an English teacher because I love the English language and I love to educate those who have just started to learn this language. I’m also very good at teaching others what I know.
3) What do you do when you don’t teach?
When I don’t teach, I translate, conduct oral proficiency tests, read, and cook.
4) Were you born in the US or outside the US?
I was born in the country of Georgia and have been living in the US since 2001.
5) What is your hobby?
My hobby is spending time with my family, cooking, baking, and reading.
Student Article – The Summer Party By Nichapat Charoensupvichit (Level 6)
I had a great time at the LSI summer party at the Brazilian restaurant in Torrance. I thought the food was very delicious and fresh. I never had Brazilian food before, and the meat was very juicy and wonderful. After my friends and I ate, there was a great show, and we watched several people dance. Then, it was our turn. I want to the dance floor with a drink in my hand (I wasn’t driving), and began to have a great time. It was enjoyable to relax and dance with friends in a fun and safe environment. It was a bit of a far journey for me, because I live in Chino and my friends and classmates live in Alhambra, but other than that it was super fun! I hope to go back and do a lot of dancing and eating again sometime!
