'Mangopalooza' rocks for a good cause

By Chantal Vouziers

ORLANDO, Fla.--Mangopalooza took place in front of the library at Valencia Community College East on Nov. 13. The event was organized and held by Jan Mangos and her Marketing class.

During the event, several bands took the stage along with guest speakers. While some students were sitting on the grass listening to the bands, others were buying food, t-shirts, and raffle tickets. The money raised was being donated to the Orlando Marine Institute.

OMI is a non-profit organization and school located in Apopka who gives juveniles a second chance. The school takes in teens ranging from the ages of 13-19 years old who have been raised in a disadvantaged household. The average student from the organization has been charged with at least three felonies. The usual enrollment falls around 65 students who stay for an average of six months. The school has a 75 percent success rate.

Guest speaker and student, Julio Alonso said, "the program usually takes 4-6 months to complete. It's just like a normal school. We use buses for transportation and learn academics as well."

Antonio McLaughin, another student at the institute, said this as a piece of advice to offer to others,"Don't let your influences around you make you who you are."

Many were inspired by the event and cause. Student Christopher Apicella, told the Voice that the event was very inspiring. "It made me feel good to see that there is a program out there that gives second chances," he said.

Information on the Orlando Marine Institue can be found at www.OrlandoMarineInstitute.com.