Remembering the veterans

Hanna Suarez, Editor-in-Chief

December 7, 2012

In November, in front of Downey City Hall, a new statue is resurrected as a veteran’s memorial. On every corner around the statue there is a plaque of each department of the military to represent the Navy, Marines, Army, and Air Force.

In honor of veterans who have served for their country, the city of Downey dedicated the new Veterans Memorial in the Civic Center Area on Nov. 12. This addition to the civic center stands in front of the police station on its pentagon base, each of its different podiums naming a different section of the armed forces. After a year of planning by the City Council Veterans Memorial Subcommittee, the sculpture and fountain joins the Fallen Officers Memorial and a bust of John Gately Downey. All of the works set a tone to the civic center area—that the residents of Downey are thankful for the service men who fight for their country and give back to their families and communities.

“I think it promotes modernism in Downey,” senior John Fernandez said, “ and the calm water displays a message about veterans and how they get peace by being appreciated for their service.”

The marble piece stands tall, with a metal symbol at the top. The crests of each branch are also engraved on the structure. The California based artist, James Russel has worked on other memorials and monuments for local cities like Cerritos and Duarte. The new statue has been supported from the beginning, however, some residents are still surprised by the news. Long time Downey resident and alumni Joanna Shull, volunteers at the thrift store Second Time Around on Downey Ave., and is pleasantly surprised by the patriotic project.

“It’s great that it’s there; it’s too bad I have not seen it yet,” Shull said. “I’m going to drive over there to take a look once I’m done here!”

The students at Downey High School have also noticed the memorial.

“It’s [the memorial] unique; it gives the civic center an artistic vibe while also showing Downey’s respect for the people who protect freedom,” senior Diana Perez said.

This latest project presented and financed by the Arts in Public Places fund has made a home in Downey. Its meaning will continue to represent the sense of pride within the community.

About the Contributors

Hanna Suarez, Editor-in-Chief

Hanna Suarez, Editor-in-Chief of The Downey Legend, stepped into the world of journalism as a junior, as she carried on the challenge of the Arts and Entertainment Editor as her first position. The young writer was hesitant when first applying to join the staff, and doubts of acceptance crossed her mind. “I was kind of scared to join,” Suarez said “I didn’t think I would be much good.” Nonetheless, the hopeful student took the risk and was happy when she received the news of being selected as A&E Editor. She quickly adapted to the hectic environment and filled the newspaper room with her humor, as well as adding a sense of warmth and kindness. After successfully filling her section editor position, Suarez did not fret when the opportunity of E.I.C. was presented to her. She quickly grabbed the new title, and felt confident taking on the new role that was attached to more responsibilities. “I felt capable of handling the job well,” Suarez said. The leader was comfortable being promoted to a more prestigious position, and held her ground. While college years are ahead of her, the student is savoring the moments she has left in high school, taking in her senior year and trying to make the most of it. The Downey Legend editor is an active member in the school marching band, playing the clarinet and euphonium. The senior also enjoys spending time reading while having 3^rd Street Coffee in hand, and listening to indie bands and artists such as The xx and Lana del Ray. Once she graduates, the ambitious writer hopes to build a successful career as E.I.C. of her own magazine, making newspaper a foundation for her future endeavors. She anticipates stepping foot into the real world, attending the USC Annenberg School of Communications or FIDM. The young and talented individual has prospered as a writer and leader; providing the staff with a model of success, she leaves big shoes to fill.

Alexandra Menendez, Photographer

Returner Alexandra Menendez took up photography for The Downey Legend her junior year. Since the purchase of her first camera as a mere 6^th grader, photography has been a point of interest for the 17 year old; the school newspaper is just one on a long list of creative outlets she uses to express her photography skills. “I like having the ability to capture a memory before it’s gone forever.” Menendez says. Outside of campus, she refines her skills through photo-shoots with her friends and sister along the railroad tracks and otherwise simple backdrops. She plans on enrolling at San Francisco State and studying to be a professional photographer, but if all else fails, she aspires to at least be a qualified teacher. Currently, she is attending the ROP class Principles in Education to guide her into being the ideal photography instructor she aims to be. The soft-spoken Menendez lives her life to the fullest of its potential each and every day. She is a proud film enthusiast, lover of Asian cuisine, and self-proclaimed introvert – though she claims to enjoy wasting away the weekends with her friends. Nonetheless, rather than having a traditional quinceñera with the spotlight on her, Menendez chose to travel Europe alone. “I’ve always wanted to go, just to see new places I’d never seen before.” Menendez says. “I wanted something new. She still longs to travel the rest of the world – all the while, documenting her trips through a camera lens. A small girl, Menendez has big dreams ahead of herself.