Newsletter October 2016

Editorial - Halloween and Its Origin By Ligia Andersen, Program Coordinator at DTLA

           Halloween is one of the most popular holidays in the United States. Here is a little more information about Halloween: 

Costumes: Originally, many people believed that ghosts came back to the earthly world on Halloween day a long time ago. So, people thought if they wore costumes or masks, the ghosts would mistake them for fellow spirits so that people could keep ghosts away from them. Today, people still dress up in a typical costume such as ghosts, witches, and devils, and also TV or movie characters and just silly created looking costumes. 

The Halloween Pumpkin is also called the Jack-O-Lantern. Its name came from a character in Irish folktales. Pumpkins are carved into a scary face, a candle is placed inside, and then it is placed on the doorstep of the home in order to scare evil spirits away. 

Trick-or-Treating: The main event of Halloween is Trick-or-Treating, whereby costumed children go from house to house to ask for candy. The origin of this event was the early celebrations of all Soul’s Day in Britain. Poor people begged for food so that families gave them special treats called soul cakes. It was called “going a-souling,” and the soulers would promise to say a prayer for their dead relatives so they would help them find their way to heaven. 

           Make sure to wear a costume and enjoy October 31st!

Language Systems Lifestyle - Happy Halloween By Ligia Andersen, Program Coordinator at DTLA

           Make sure to visit the neighborhood of Hancock Park and its amazing Halloween decorated houses... A lot of people go treat or treating there. 

Another awesome place to visit on October 31st is West Hollywood. The world famous parade is incredible! You won't believe the costumes you will see there! You will also be able to enjoy music everywhere. 

In Griffith Park, the Haunted Hay Ride is also very popular and terrifying! 

Check out these sites for more Halloween activities in LA:

https://www.timeout.com/los-angeles/things-to-do/the-best-haunted-houses-and-attractions-in-los-angeles

http://losangeleshauntedhayride.com/

http://www.visitwesthollywood.com/halloween-carnaval

https://www.knotts.com/scaryfarm

http://www.halloweenhorrornights.com/hollywood/2016/Front_Of_Line_ticket.php?__source=search_gps_hhn_b_socal_brand_tix_nooff&msid=120608539081&matchtype=e&keyword=universal%20studios%20halloween%20horror%20nights&gclid=CI_Gy6mkws8CFYE2aQodQggC4g

Discover L.A. - Oktoberfest By Ligia Andersen, Program Coordinator at DTLA

           October is famous for another great event: Oktoberfest! Oktoberfest is a traditional German party that has become more and more celebrated around the world! This is your chance to explore German bars and restaurants around LA and learn more about this celebration. 

The Red Lion Tavern is a famous German restaurant in Silver Lake. Here is their schedule for Oktoberfest: 

FRIDAY - SUNDAY SEP 16-OCT 30 

RED LION OKTOBERFEST 

RED LION TAVERN, SILVER LAKE 

Head to one of our favorite German-themed places to drink outdoors for their annual Oktoberfest bonanza. Stop by for a commemorative Oktoberfest stein, three special German Oktoberfest beers on tap, special food menus, and stein-holding competitions on the weekends where the winner goes to Vegas. And, on October 16th, stop by for the return of Heino, the legendary German singer. 

Here is a list of other places you can visit this month in LA: 

https://www.thrillist.com/events/los-angeles/every-actually-great-la-area-oktoberfest-event-now-in-one-calendar

Free in Los Angeles - West Halloween Carnival By Ligia Andersen, Program Coordinator at DTLA

           Did you know that you can experience one of the best Halloween celebrations in the US right here in West Hollywood? 

The West Halloween Carnival is a mind blowing experience! You will see the best costumes you have ever seen and dance to the music along Santa Monica Boulevard. 

The event is FREE and definitely something you want to attend while living in Southern California! For more information, check out their websites: 

http://www.visitwesthollywood.com/halloween-carnaval/event-information

Language Systems Faces - Interview with Student Advisor Albert(DTLA) By Ligia Andersen, Program Coordinator at DTLA

           Albert is Downtown's new student adviser. Let's get to know him a little more! 

Q:Albert, when did you start working at Language Systems? 

A: I started in August. 

Q: What has been your favorite experience at LSI so far? 

A: The best experience I have gained so far has definitely been customer service. I was a student myself just a few months ago, so now I feel like I can truly understand their needs. 

Q: You mentioned you were a student yourself. What did you study? 

A: I studied Film Production for 2 years, but ended up graduating as a music major. 

Q: That's great! What kind of music is your favorite? 

A: I like to listen to all kinds of music, but I grew up listening to jazz and rock. I currently produce electronic music. 

Q: What languages do you speak? 

A: I speak English and Japanese fluently, and basic conversational Korean! 

Q: What would you recommend our students to do in LA? What are your favorite spots or things to do? 

A: LA has a nice mix of nature and urban feeling. I recommend going on hikes, hanging out at the beach, and getting lost in the forest, haha! From my experience when I am close to nature, to water, to fresh air, I feel so refreshed. It makes me realize how much we take all the free things in this giant city for granted! I love LA! I hope you guys can get the best out of it while studying English, of course!

Articles El Pueblo De Los Angeles By Ligia Andersen, Program Coordinator at DTLA

           In the late 18th century, a "Pueblo" was founded under the order of King Carlos the 3rd of Spain. Later, this district grew into the 2nd largest city in the U.S.A, also known as Los Angeles. 

           Olvera Street is one part of this area. Olvera Street was named after Agustin Olvera, L.A's first county judge, who also owned a house at the end of the street. This district is the oldest area of L.A; therefore, there are many structures which have "L.A's first" in their name. 

           This place looks totally different from other L.A spots. The structures were all built between 1818 and 1926 and most are made of brick. There is a daily street market on Olvera Street, and you can find a museum, an outdoor cafe, and souvenir shops while strolling through it. The museum admission is free, and of course you can taste Mexican food in the outdoor cafe, and you will find many interesting trinkets in each shop. You can also find a museum church, and some old structures off the street. The church is L.A's oldest church. It was built in 1822. 

           If you are feeling tired of L.A, it would be good to make an escape L.A and spend your weekend in this exotic place in the heart of downtown L.A.

Personality Based on Blood Type By Ligia Andersen, Program Coordinator at DTLA

           Some people believe that we can get a good idea about an individual’s personality based on his or her blood type. A person’s blood type is determined by the kind of antigen in the red blood cells. If a person has an A antigen, the blood type is A, and if a person has B antigen, the blood type is B. If people have both, the blood type is AB, and those with neither are blood type O. The most common type is O. There is no solid scientific evidence that blood type is related to personality, but some people believe that it is true. Here are some of the characteristics of different blood types. 

           People with A blood type are obedient, careful, sympathetic, self-absorbed, polite and honest. They need a private or secret place, so they dislike crowded places. People with B blood type don’t like interference from others. They don’t want to be controlled by any rules, so they start their own business rather than working for someone else. People with AB blood type have both aspects of A and B, so this blood type is really complicated. They try get along with others and try to be the one who can help others. And they always make a reasonable relationship and like to judge things. People with O blood type are confident, strong- willed, proud, sociable and energetic. They make friends easily, so they like to be self-centered. Based on this article, you can compare your blood type with its characteristics. If you don’t know your blood type, you can go to The Red Cross and donate some blood. Then you can get your blood type test.

Newsletter September 2016

Editorial - Welcome to new students 

By Sylvia Sunada, Program Coordinator at SB

What's up new and returning LSI students! It's the last session of the summer term. As you look around your classrooms and schools, I'm sure that you are noticing a few new faces. Please take the time to welcome the new students to LSI and your classes. This is a great opportunity for you to make new friends and improve your English as well. Show them around your school and your communities.

So...to all the new students we want to thank you for choosing LSI. We think that you have made a wonderful choice and we are here to help you achieve your English goals. We understand that learning a language and living in a foreign country can be challenging, so please ask us if you need some assistance.

Other than that please come to class, study hard, and get out there and speak English! Enjoy your California life!!!

Discover South Bay L.A. 

By Sylvia Sunada, Program Coordinator at SB

Do you love the beach? Looking for some exercise? Enjoy watching some volleyball? Then I suggest visiting The Strand or more formally known as the Marvin Braude bike trail. This is a 22 mile long paved path that starts in Torrance and meanders along the beaches of South Bay past Venice, Santa Monica up to Will Rogers State Park.

There are 5 piers that you can enjoy a great view of the ocean, go surfing, or do some fishing. I personally recommend King's Harbor near Redondo Beach Pier. There is an old time arcade and several good sea food restaurants.

Further up the trail at Dockweiler Beach you can enjoy something special. There are over 50 fire pits that individuals can use to build bonfires. If interested, I suggest getting there really early in the morning, about 8:00 AM on the weekends. You will of course need some firewood, available at any supermarket and something to start the fire. Then you can enjoy the evening with your bonfire, some friends and good conversation or music.

Of course I suggest biking the Strand. You don't need to bike the entire distance but it is a really wonderful adventure. There are several coffee shops or ice cream shops that you can visit. Just think of all the exercise you will be getting! Whatever you decide to do make The Strand your next stop.

Beach Party 

By Sushant Naidu, Assistant PC and Teacher at DT

Language Systems Lifestyle: Beach Party

Free in South Bay L.A. 

• KCRW DJs Dan Wilcox + Marion Hodges
  
  SATURDAY SEP 17
  Where? Anaheim Packing District!!
  At: 5:30pm - FREE
  
  This all-ages concert series from KCRW sets up shop across the city every week from June through August, and is definitely among the liveliest of LA's summer concerts. Participate in cultural workshops before busting a move on the dance floor to DJ sets and live bands. Sample food-truck grub or cuisine from surrounding restaurants as you party ‘til midnight in the heart of Chinatown and Pasadena as well as at the Hammer Museum. A photo booth, craft beer garden and variety of fine art classes round out the fun to be had at this music-centric event. 

• Free concert - Twilight Concerts: Ohio Players
  
  THUESDAY SEP 8 Where? Santa Monica Pier!!
  At: 7:00pm - FREE
  
  The Ohio Players were an American funk, soul music and R&B band, most popular in the 1970s. They are best known for their songs "Fire" and "Love Rollercoaster.”

Student Article 1 - It’s time for the beach party 

By Jeries (Level 7)

On Friday August 19th in Huntington Beach we had a great time with other students and staff from the other three Language Systems’ schools. There were many interesting students from many countries and nationalities.

There were many events during the day in the wonderful California sun. I participated in the tug-of-war, watched the intense volleyball games, laughed at the contestants in the disgusting food eating contest, and cheered our team in fill the bucket. I think all 4 teams did their best to win; it was really challenging, and everyone was participating.

Students from all 4 campuses came to the beach not only to participate but also to make friends and practice their English outside of class. I met students from Downtown LA, Orange County and Alhambra. I’m pretty sure that each student had a great time. I know that I did! I would love to go again to this event and to get to meet new people again.

Can’t wait to go again next year.

Student Article 2 - My Trip to Florida 

By Masanori (Level 5)

I went to Florida for a week in July. It was a nice trip because I had lived in Florida to learn English for a year in 2015. I have many friends in Florida and I met up with them after I finished my work for the day. I played tennis with my friends and I went to dinner with my business partner. They reminded me of a lot of memories of my life in Florida. I made sure that we had a great time but I was so sad that I won't be able to meet up with them for a long time. I can't wait to see them soon.

Language Systems Faces - Interview with Student Advisers Jeries & Jae (SB) 

By Sylvia Sunada, Program Coordinator at SB

Jae and Jeries are Student Advisers at Language Systems' South Bay Campus. We sat down with them for a bit and got to know them a little better. This is what we found out: 

Jae is originally from South Korea and has also spent 5 years in Japan. As a student adviser, she is able to help out our students in Korean, Japanese, and English! She has worked at Language Systems for about a month and a half. Her favorite thing about working for LSI is being able to talk with her co-workers from Brazil, Israel, Taiwan, Japan, and America because she enjoys learning about different cultures. When she is not working, she is spending time playing with her 3 year-old son at the park, walking around the mall, or joining story-time at the nearby bookstore. 

Jeries, or Jerry for short, is originally from Israel and has lived in the United States for 3 and a half years. He started as a Level 2 student at LSI over 2 years ago and has now progressed up to Advanced Business! In his free time, Jerry likes working out at the gym, experiencing California's amazing beaches, and just enjoying life! Jerry says that his co-workers are the best thing about working at LSI. He also really likes learning new things and meeting new people. To improve English, Jerry has simple advice: speak English as much as possible and don't be shy! 

We are grateful to have awesome staff members like Jae and Jeries!

http://languagesystems.edu/

Newsletter August 2016

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 

Language Systems Lifestyle: - Summer Party

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.

http://www.thegranadala.com

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!

Newsletter July 2016

Editorial - Food in America  By Ty Mussack, Program Coordinator at OC

            Sometimes international students will say something like this, “There is nothing really special about American food.  It’s just hamburgers, French fries, fast food and junk food.”  Well, if you think McDonald’s and KFC are the symbols of American food, then this may be true.  However, the U.S. actually has a rich food culture that international students rarely take the chance to experience.  A lot of this food culture is connected to geography and the people who have populated these areas.  For example, the northeastern states like Maine, New Hampshire, Boston and Connecticut have a rich seafood culture, while the southern states like Texas, Mississippi and Tennessee have delicious BBQ and southern soul food.  Texas and California both have their versions of Mexican food, while the east coast has a rich sandwich culture that includes pastrami, cheesesteaks, and New York style deli sandwiches.  American BBQ itself can be divided into Texas BBQ, Kansas City BBQ, Carolina BBQ, Memphis style, and several others withy unique sauces and preferences of wood types that are used for smoking.  It’s true that sometimes America borrows a food concept from another country, like pizza from Italy, and then we make it our own.  American pizza has many varieties that cannot be found anywhere in Italy, including Chicago deepdish, New York style, and California style wood-fired pizza.  So basically, if you’re an international student studying English here in America, you need to put down the fast food and go out and taste some truly American food.  Enjoy!

Language Systems Lifestyle - Food Trucks in America  By Ty Mussack, Program Coordinator at OC

            A lot of students at Language Systems come from countries that have a vibrant street food culture.  Because of certain strict laws and regulations in California, there is not a lot of street food out there.  However, we do have a thing called food trucks in California, and you should check some of them out.  A lot of cities have food truck gatherings, when many different types of food trucks all meet at one location to give people a really cool dining experience.  Recently, a group of Language Systems students from the OC campus went to a food truck gathering in Fullerton, CA.  The most popular truck that night was a fusion truck that combined Korean food with Mexican and American food.  The most popular item that the students ordered was the pork belly sliders.  Another favorite was a truck selling Cajun food, which comes from New Orleans, Louisiana.  Sometimes ordering from the food trucks may seem a little expensive, but you are supporting a small “family business.”  Check it out!

Discover in LA (OC) - Free Concerts in the park 

            One of the cool things about the summer in California is all the free concerts in the park.  Many cities offer free concerts during the summer, and it is a great way to enjoy California culture and weather.  Every city does holds their free concerts on a certain day of the week, so you have to check the city government website to find out which day of the week it is for any given city.  In Huntington Beach the concerts are on Sunday nights, and in Fullerton they are on Wednesday nights.  Every summer our students from Language Systems – Orange County attend a concert and have a picnic together.  A lot of American families attend these events.  They usually bring chairs, food, drinks, blankets, and sometimes even the family dogs.  Some concerts will have food trucks, and others will have special games and activities for kids.  If you are in California for the summer, you should go to one of these FREE concerts in the park.  Here is a link for the concerts available in Orange County.

http://www.orangecounty.net/html/events_concerts.html

Free in LA (OC) - Welcome OC Fair 

You're invited to join the OC Fair as we celebrate the spirit, tradition and heritage of being OC's Fair since 1890. A county fair wouldn't be complete without the competition pies, quilts, paintings and giant pumpkins. Every year at the OC Fair, the community's gardeners, bakers and artisans of all ages and types come together to share their talents with more than one million Fair-goers. Enter into a competition to win a coveted blue ribbon or visit one of the OC Fair's competitive galleries and witness the spirit of competition that is alive and thriving in Orange County.

Come and Get it! Friday July 15th is the Opening Day of the Orange County Fair!

From 12 pm - 1pm / Parking and Admission is free.

Check out the following website: www.ocfair.com

Language Systems Faces - Interview with Shizuka By Almugarry, Rakan - ESL Morning Level 5

1) So how long have you been working for LS-OC and what is your main role/job? 

I’ve been working at LS-OC now for about 7 months. I work at the front desk and my main job is to help prospective students apply for their I-20. I also help with enrollment when they arrive here. Lately, I have also been using Instagram to promote LS in Japan. I want to try to attract more short-term students from Japan.

2) What do you like most about your job at LS-OC?

I used to be an ESL student, so I know how our students feel. I know they have a dream about studying abroad. Applying for a student visa can be really stressful. I enjoy helping them.

3) What is the most difficult thing about your job?

It’s sad when students want to come here, but they can’t get a visa. It also difficult communicating with students because of the language and cultural barriers.

4) Where are you from originally, and what do you miss about your country?

I am originally from Sendai, Japan. Most people know about Sendai from the earthquake and tsunami we had in 2011. I miss the sushi in Japan. I haven’t found any good sushi in California. I worry about my family and friends sometimes too because we have so many earthquakes in Japan.

5) I hear you have your own jewelry business. Can you tell us a little about that?

Sure. I make my own jewelry using unique stones and gold filling. I sell it online and through two stores in Southern California. I mainly use the website Etsy.com, and my account is under the name brilliantmoonCA if you want to check out my work. I’ve been doing this for the last 2 years.

Student Article 1

Vietnamese Taste in America By Bao (Level 6)

         There are two things that remind foreigners about Vietnam: The Vietnam War and Pho. While the war was over 35 years ago, Pho remains a well-known Vietnamese food not only in America but also around the world. Pho is a kind of noodle soup, sometimes with beef and chicken. Since the first Pho restaurant was opened in Hanoi in the 1920s, Pho has become popular around the world. In America, people can find Pho restaurants easily in any area where there is a Vietnamese community.  In Southern California, if you love Asian food, you should taste the Pho in Westminster City, Orange County (OC), also known as Little Saigon. There are many Pho restaurants in Little Saigon, but I strongly recommend a restaurant called “Pho 79.” 
Pho 79 is located at 9941 Hazard Avenue, Westminster, OC, at the corner of Bolsa Avenue and Hazard. For over a century Pho has been served in a bowl with a specific cut of white rice noodle in clear beef broth, with slim cuts of beef. Variations feature tendon, tripe, meatballs, chicken leg, chicken breast or other chicken organs. There are also three bowl sizes:  medium, large and extra large. The extra large is also called the super bowl in Vietnamese.  This will help you when you want to order in any pho restaurant in America. Check out a review from a loyal customer of Pho 79 at www.orangecounty.citysearch.com: “I haven't gone to this Pho 79 for a long time, about 10 years. When I tried it again, it was still so good, no wonder it's still around after all these years. They have various types of pho and other dishes too. I recommend this place for pho. And it's cheap!”  You and your friend can have a meal with each other in Pho 79 restaurant for around $17 (including tip) for two extra large bowls. 
With many Vietnamese living outside their own country for a lot of different reasons, Pho is not only a food, but also part of their memories of Vietnam. Therefore, when a Vietnamese opens a Pho restaurant, the owner also wants to introduce Vietnamese culture to people in America.  So when you come to Pho 79, or any Pho restaurant in your community, you are not only tasting Vietnamese food, you are also tasting Vietnamese culture.  

Student Article 1

My First Burger in California By Mariana (Level 5)

         Everyday people go to a lot of different places, and some of these places might be strange for them because there is a different culture.  This was my experience when I first came to the U.S.  I will never forget my first day in California.  I flew from Brazil to Los Angeles, and I was so excited to see a new place.  When I got here everything looked so different and so brilliant.  I was starving, so a friend took me to In-n-Out Burger.  When I got out of the car I saw a long line of other cars waiting to order at the drive-thru window.  There were so many people it looked like a long line of ants looking for food.  I thought the food must be good.  The cashier who took my order was very polite, and their system was so fast and efficient that my food was ready in 5 minutes. The hamburger looked so attractive and succulent that my mouth was watering. I took the first bite and thought I had gone to heaven!  It was divine!  The combination of tender meat, crisp lettuce, and a soft fresh bun was so delicious that when I went to bed that night I dreamed about In-n-Out Burger.  I liked it so much that I decided to go there to eat every week.

http://languagesystems.edu/

Newsletter June 2016

Editorial - Simple Summertime Satisfaction  By Paul Grosfield

          The summer is almost upon us, and here in Southern California that means that there are a number of activities that you can enjoy. Obvious examples are having fun at the beach, enjoying the sunshine on a picnic, and seeing an outdoor concert at the Hollywood Bowl, but I would like to introduce you to a simpler refreshing activity to do that you may not be able to do so easily back home: drinking a root beer float.

            On a hot summer day, you may agree that sometimes there is no better way to beat the heat than a cool glass of lemonade. However, there is a lesser-known beverage called a “root beer float” that you might like even better. It’s very simple to make, or, if you prefer, you can just buy one at a 1950s-style American diner like Johnny Rockets.

            So what is a root beer float? First of all, despite its name, there is no alcohol in this beverage. “Root beer” is a misnomer, which means that the actual object doesn’t match what its name says. In the same way, a “peanut” is neither a pea nor a nut, and “root beer” is not beer, it’s actually a kind of soda (although it is flavored with a type of root). In appearance, it looks like Coke or Pepsi, but the flavor is completely different. It has a particular flavor that some people don’t care for, but even if you have tried this soda and didn’t like it, you should still try a root beer float because it tastes very different and is almost magical. The difference is, the float has a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the root beer, preferably in a frosted glass mug. When a mug is “frosted”, it means it has been in the freezer and as a result, the glass has a thin layer of ice all over it. This is the best possible drink when it’s hot, in my humble opinion. You probably wouldn’t want one every day because it’s very sweet and kind of heavy, but every once in a while it can make your day.

            Sometimes people put the ice cream (only vanilla flavored) in other kinds of soda, but as far as I’m concerned, nothing else is even close to comparing to the deliciousness of the root beer version. Another reason I’m suggesting this summer beverage is that it’s kind of a part of American culture because root beer isn’t readily available in many other countries like it is here. So if you would like a different way to cool down in the heat, get yourself a root beer float!

Language Systems Lifestyle - Soccer Tournament 2016  By Carlos Takashima, PC NELA

           This year’s soccer tournament was nothing short of a success. Students had the opportunity to experience an entirely new venue with state of the art fields and great weather. The teams showed up in high spirits ready to claim the main prize for the most popular tournament of the year.

            The energy was high and the excitement of it all kept the cheers going through the entire tournament. There were a couple of injuries, but that’s because the speed and intensity of the games were at an all time, competitive high. This year, the championship was re-claimed by last year’s defending champions from Language Systems Orange County. This team came ready to take on any team that stepped on the field against them and proved it with wide margin victories.

             During the tournament, Language Systems had a camera crew interviewing students regarding their experience in school and their feelings about the tournament. People took photo booth pictures with their friends while catching snacks and drinks, and of course, everyone had a positive experience. Because let’s face it, we would rather be out of class and school to enjoy snacks and a game on a perfectly nice Friday morning and afternoon.

             Let’s hope that next year Language Systems holds the tournament in the same place and that every team trains with exuberance to prove that their school has the best to offer in athletics, while showing off their English skills with other students and on the field. Let’s make next year just as great.

Discover in LA (DT) - The Sound of Music at the Hollywood Bowl! 

You might have already heard of the famous Hollywood Bowl.

The Hollywood Bowl is an amphitheater located in the heart of Hollywood. It is outdoors and a lot of very well known artists perform there every year!
There are so many wonderful artists performing there this month, including Paul Simon and Andrea Bocelli!
There is also a very special event for The Sound of Music fans! It's the Sound of Music Sing Along! They play the movie on a big screen and everyone sings the famous songs together! It's really a great event! Do you want to start practicing? Here is one of the most well known songs from the movie:

VIDEO:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k33ZQ4I4p24

LYRICS:  DO RE MI
Let's start at the very beginning
A very good place to start
When you read you begin with A B C
When you sing you begin with Do Re Me
Do Re Me, Do Re Me
The first three notes just happen to be
Do Re Me, Do Re Me
Do Re Me Fa So La Ti
Let's see if I can make it easier
Doe, a deer, a female deer
Ray, a drop of golden sun
Me, a name I call myself
Far, a long long way to run
Sew, a needle pulling thread
La, a note to follow so
Tea, a drink with jam and bread
That will bring us back to Do, oh ohoh
(REPEAT 2 X) 
Do Re Me Fa So La Ti Do, So Do
'Now children, Do Re Me Fa So and so on
Are only the tools we use to build a song
Once you have these notes in your heads'
'You can sing a million different tunes by mixing them up
Like this'
So Do La Fa Me Do Re
'Can you do that?'
So Do La Fa Me Do Re
So Do La Ti Do Re Do
So Do La Ti Do Re Do
'Now, put it all together'
So Do La Fa Mi Do Re
So Do La Ti Do Re Do
Good
'But it doesn't mean anything?'
'So we put in words'
'One word for every note, like this'
When you know the notes to sing
You can sing most anything
Together
When you know the notes to sing
You can sing most anything
Songwriters:
R. RODGERS, O. HAMMERSTEIN


For more information on the Hollywood Bowl events, here is the June calendar:   http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/tickets/calendar

Free in LA  - The Griffith Observatory 

The Griffith Observatory is one of L.A.’s greatest cultural attractions, offering spectacular views from the Pacific Ocean to Downtown L.A. from its perch on Mt. Hollywood in Griffith Park. The observatory and accompanying exhibits were opened to the public on May 14, 1935. In its first five days of operation, the observatory welcomed more than 13,000 visitors. Today, the Griffith Observatory is renowned as a national leader in public astronomy, and a beloved gathering place for visitors and Angelenos alike.

Admission to the building, grounds, and parking is always FREE.

Tuesday - Friday, 12:00 Noon - 10:00 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday, 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Language Systems Faces

Iain McConnell is a teacher and an assistant program coordinator at the Los Angeles campus.

1) Hey Iain, how long have you worked at LS-DTLA?

I have worked at Language Systems for eight years.

2) Wow! That's a long time! What is your favorite part about working at LS-DTLA?

I love the atmosphere at Language Systems. I have great co-workers, professional teachers, devoted office staff, and a wonderful Program Coordinator, not to mention great students.

3) What do you like teaching the best at LS-DTLA?

I like teaching grammar the most, but I also like reading and TOEIC!

4) What kind of books do you like to read in your free time?

I like to read all kinds of books, but I would have to say my favorite types of books to read come from authors like Franz Kafka, Dostoevsky, Italo Calvino and Jorges Luis Borges.

5) What other things do you like to do in your free time?

I like hiking, playing mandolin and taking photographs of nature.

Student Article 1The Sights, Sounds and Flavors of a Great Day By Margarita, level 6, DTLA

          Everyday new opportunities appear around us to fill our lives with fresh thoughts. It can be a simple drive to a new place, new film, or a walk with friends in an exotic restaurant. Last weekend I had a great opportunity to act like a fan and have a great time at the Language Systems’ soccer tournament.

          When my husband and I parked the car near the field, we looked around and saw a wonderful view on the hills. The sun shone so brightly that some of the players needed to apply sunscreen. The atmosphere was very friendly and fun. I heard all the students screaming the names of their teams loudly.

          About 200 steps away from the field there was a small building with restrooms, a few tables and benches outside. Between the games we went to the building and tried some food and drinks. I couldn't say it was delicious, but I really liked the brownie cakes; they tasted like they came from a cafe! All the students were standing in line to grab a piece of hot pizza. It was very funny because Ligia, our esteemed Program Coordinator, was telling side-splitting jokes into a mega-phone.

          All the area near the field was full of life. I really enjoyed this place because of its location. Sitting in a place like this I can smell the fresh air and hear the wind in my ears.

Student Article 2Impressions of a Tournament: Language Systems in the Beautiful San Rafael Hills By Halam, level 6, DTLA

          I got a strong impression from the Language Systems soccer tournament. The first game pitted the Downtown campus against the Northeast campus. We were all sitting in the stands cheering for our teams when the game started. The energy, the force of our cheers pushed our team to score the first goal early. A little while later, our opponents kicked one in the net, tying the game 1-1. Moments later, our team scored another and a few minutes before the end of the first half, another goal brought our lead up 3-1! Because of our comfortable lead, we didn't do much - just watched and enjoyed the game. By the time the second half finished, our team had scored two more goals to defeat our opponents 5-1!

          In the final game, Downtown faced off against last year's tournament winner, Orange County. We cheered our team even harder! They scored first but we answered with two goals. In the second half, Orange County tied the game at 2. Later, they scored again and the game ended: Orange County 3 - Downtown 2. So our team lost, but this year our team came in second place and our players did a good job. It was very exciting and a good experience.

http://languagesystems.edu/