DESI CADE | staff writer

As papers and projects begin to consume students' lives, learning become a chore instead a joy. Whether a short bike ride or a weekend away, there are still many ways to enjoy learning outside the classroom.

CHOCOLATE AT THE LIBRARY
Glendora Library caters to all generations and takes learning to the next step, offering fun events and classes.

On Feb. 6 at 3:00 p.m. on the main floor, the library is hosting a class called “Chocolate Fantasy.” This class is about learning to create your own chocolate treats in time for Valentine’s Day. Linda Hermann, owner of A & J Cake Decorating, will teach eager bakers how to conjure up delicious chocolate fantasies.

Also on Wed., Feb. 6 at 7:00 p.m., author David K. Lynch will be there to discuss his book, A Field Guide to the San Andreas Fault. This visit will educate people about this important factor of California landscape.

For more information about upcoming events at Glendora Library call 626-852-4891 or visit www.glendoralibrary.org.

The library is located at 140 S. Glendora Ave in Glendora and is open Monday through Wednesday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and closed Sunday.

A VILLAGE WITHIN A CITY
Olvera Street is one of the oldest parts of Los Angeles and bustles with vibrant Mexican tradition. It is not just a street lined with vendors, but a village that births lively and colorful talent linked to a strong Mexican culture.

There are traditional dancers that perform in the center of the village, luring in tourists and locals alike. The cobblestone pathway leads through an overabundance of wagons with Mexican handmade crafts strewn across them.

“It is a great getaway to experience the Mexican culture, without having to travel too far,” junior social science major Aaron Valle said. “It is perfect for a Saturday afternoon, and there is always something going on.”

Not only are the handcrafted wares typical of Old Mexico, but the food is just as satisfying. Several food vendors line the cobbled paths, offering an array of delicious taquitos, chicken tacos and much more.

Mexican desserts are also popular to many visitors of Olvera Street. Mr. Churro offers dozens of different treats, including foot long churros and traditional cookies called biscochitos.

“The taco place at the end of the street is the best food in the whole village,” Valle said. “The churros at Mr. Churros, which is in the middle of the strip, are the best tasting churros I have ever had.”

This buzzing village is a 40 minute drive, but to save gas and the environement try the Metrolink. The Metrolink drops off right at Union Station, located two blocks away from Olvera Street. The closest Metrolink pick-up is down Citrus Ave. in Covina, and after hopping on the train it is less than 45 minutes into the city of angels.

For more information that will help plan your cultural getaway visit www.olvera-street.com and check out Metrolink times at www.metrolinktrains.com.

ON A MISSION
The California coast is known for its magnificent stretch of highway which passes through numerous historical sites and features a gorgeous panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.

California missions dapple the coastline, located in many cities accessible off the 101. Approximately a dozen of these famous California missions are located within a three hour drive of Azusa.

The first of 20 California missions was established in the summer of 1769 in San Diego.

California missions highlight a time in history when the Spanish empire sought a religious program to convert the natives. In the entirety of this quest, Padre Junipero Serra opened the doors to build more missions in the attempt to convert and help more natives.

The majority of California missions offers spectacular and original architectural views. Experiencing the adobe style exterior sends you back into the 18th century, making you feel like you were there.

Though the exterior of the churches are somewhat simple, the interiors are usually found to be elaborately adorned with Spanish art, much of the art still in its original form.

The missions are also homes of detailed and ornate gardens that provided a place of peace for the padres and Native Americans.

California missions are popular locations for weddings and special events. The church buildings allude to the art and culture of the 17 and 1800s, luring many people into their historical mystery.

For more information visit www.californiamissions.com. Plan a weekend road trip along the 101 highway, stopping at various California missions to experience the interesting history of this state.