By Ruth SOWBY

The price of admission to the fall GLA mixer at Glendale Community College (GCC) was either $20 or a backpack, fitting with the group’s theme of Back to School. More than a dozen backpacks were collected for community youth during the mixer on Sept. 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. About two-dozen supporters enjoyed the meet-and-greet in the JW Smith Student Center. Introduced among the city leaders was Glendale Mayor Elen Asatryan.     

GCC students prepared a luncheon of cheese enchiladas, Mexican Caesar salad and flan. While lunch was served, GLA members and guests were treated to a special performance by Ballet Folklorico Mexico Azteca. The dancers were former GLA President Amy Navarrete and her dance student Edith Quintero. The beat of Latin rhythms could be heard all the way to the office of GCC Superintendent/President Dr. Ryan Cornner. He joined the mixer and welcomed GLA and visitors. GLA President Anita Quinonez Gabrielian joined Dr. Cornner at the podium.  

GLA’s next mixer will be on Friday, Oct. 18 at Jenkins Properties, 2626 Honolulu Ave. in Montrose. The mixer will feature a taco truck and live music. For more information, visit https://www.glendalelatinoassociation.com/.