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Russell Mims named McAuliffe Middle Hero of the Heart

David N. Young
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Russell Mims named McAuliffe Middle Hero of the Heart

Russell Mims is a soft-spoken guy

In fact, he works the night shift. Not only is Mims very happy doing his job, he is very good at it.

A man of very few words, this middle school night custodian generally lets his deeds speak for him. Mims was named McAuliffe Middle School’s Hero of the Heart for 2021 at Tuesday’s board meeting where there were plenty of officials who wanted to talk about him.

Earlier this year, Mims was named by the District as the 2021 Classfied Employee of the Year, making the year of COVID a rewarding year for this unassuming technician who has been with the district for almost two decades.

District Supt. Dr. Andrew Pulver, who once taught science at McAuliffe Middle school, literally jumped from his seat at the dais Tuesday to make the Hero of the Heart presentation to Mims himself, saying it was at McAuliffe when he first got to know Mims.
Pulver began to speak as McAuliffe Principal, Ryan Weiss-Wright, Ed.D., looked on.

“Every single night,” said Pulver, custodians like Mims “are going in there and electrostatic spraying every single classroom, making sure that every touch point is clean and sanitized.” “I know more work has been added this year,” said Pulver, but Mims “just continues to say yes.”

Because of COVID, administrators, teachers and staff have depended on classified employees to constantly clean and sanitize every touch point to keep the school environment safe.

“We take that for granted, but (in person instruction during COVID) would not be possible without exceptional employees like our Classified Employee of the Year Russell, who’s our night custodian, and really all of our classified employees,” he said.

Mims, said Pulver, “is a beloved employee who just brings joy to everything that he does.” The district superintendent said he got to know Mims and his family while teaching science at McAuliffe (Pulver taught middle school science for seven years).

“No job is too big, too small or too menial,” he said, and Mims does his job “with a sense of pride and with a sense of work ethic.”

Teachers and then staff know that Mims goes above and beyond to provide a clean and safe environment, said Pulver. In doing so, Mim is “really just bringing a sense of sparkle and a sense of joy within his own sense of personality.”

The superintendent said Mims has “a very infectious personality, he’s an amazing father as well.” Over the years, said Pulver, “I had great opportunities to talk to him about his kids along the way.”

Mims is “just someone who goes above and beyond for all no matter what someone asked him.”

Board President Marlys Davidson, who taught American History at McAuliffe for 25 years before being elected to a seat on the LAUSD Board, said she remembered Mims as always having “a gigantic smile.

Also, she said anytime any of the female teachers would have to work late, Sims would never let them walk to the gate alone.

“You could always turn a classroom into a sparkle,” Davidson told him, adding that she believed he was most deserving of the recognition.

“We know we have amazing employees in Los Alamitos Unified School District, for you to stand out above the rest, really speaks volumes to the kind of employee that you are,” said

Dr. Joe Fraser, Assistant Supt. of Human Resources.

Weiss-Wright, McAuliffe’s principal, said while Russell is part of an “amazing team,” he stands out because no matter what is asked of him, he says “absolutely, right away.”

“I think that he does that for all of us and does it with a smile,” Weiss-Wright said, “and he does it with students in mind.”

“I think what really stands out is the tireless work that most of the time, kids don’t see,” he added.

When kids are leaving, Mims is generally just getting to work, the McAuliffe Principal said, “but the work that he does makes it possible for them to be there every day and he does it with such grace and positivity.”

“There is such a family feel about him and that is really what endears him to McAuliffe and makes him so deserving of district Classified Employee of the Year,” said Weiss-Wright, “so I’m very, very fortunate and proud to be working alongside Russell.”

Russell himself, meanwhile, remained true to his character and was a man of few words. Nevertheless, the few words he spoke after receiving the award were obviously from the heart. “I get tongue tied, so you have to excuse me,” Mims started off.

“I would just like to say thank you and I appreciate it. I really don’t like to talk too much but I really do appreciate it and thank you very much.”

With that, Russell Mims accepted the Hero of the Heart Award for 2021. It was still early.
Remember, he works the night shift, so he was likely in a hurry to get back to work.

 

Los Al eyes revamp of human trafficking laws; Chirco calls for end of hate

David N. Young
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Los Al eyes revamp of human trafficking laws; Chirco calls for end of hate

The Los Alamitos City Council may soon consider efforts to look further into new initiatives to combat human trafficking that may be happening within the city, not because the problem is more severe here, but after learning the growing scale around the country.

The discussion item came up during council member Ron Bates’ routine activities report, noting that he had testified at a recent legislative hearing along with the police and the National League of Cities and said “I got the distinct impression that there is going to be legislation, or direction as to what cities have to do about human trafficking.”

Bates said representatives of the state’s massage therapist advocacy group, the California Massage Therapy Council, of which he is a member, was also in attendance. The group provides certification of massage therapists when required and they provide counseling to government entitites on human trafficking prevention, he said.

“My concern is that if cities don’t make a more aggressive effort, this responsibility may be taken from us,” said Bates. “I don’t want to see some state agency, or [trade group] coming into our city and telling us what to do with our businesses.”
Bates said Los Alamitos, which does not require certification of its massage therapists, could be revamping its ordinance soon.

“It’s a real situation and a travesty,” said Police Chief Eric Nunez. He said some estimates say there are more than five million victims of human trafficking per year in the U.S. “solely for the purpose of sexual exploitation.”

“What works for Los Alamitos is best for our city,” said Nunez, suggesting that it would be better to actively engage to “maintain local control” rather than sit back and have the state impose “some generic plan” to combat human trafficking.

Mayor Pro-tem Shelley Hasselbrink reminded the council that the city passed an ordinance a while back not to allow any additional massage parlors to operate in the city, though two massage places were grandfathered in (meaning they were in operation when the ordinance was passed so they can continue to operate).

She suggested to Nunez that perhaps police should check on them.

While eradicating human trafficking is a worthwhile mission, Mayor Mark Chirco also suggested there is no room for hate or further racial attacks against anyone, noting that he had heard about 2800 racially motivated attacks against Asian Americans alone.

“This is very disturbing,” he said. “We have to commit ourselves to calling out all forms of discrimination against any race, any gender or any group of people,” said Chirco. “It is just wrong,” he said.

“We as a society must do more to embrace the fact that all of us are different,” he said. Chirco said he was encouraged by those who “called out these injustices for what they are.”

“Our differences need to be highlighted, celebrated and embraced,” said Chirco, because that is what defines us as a nation and what makes our community such a special place to be a part of.” Hopefully, the mayor said, those incidents will stop completely which is “something to strive for as a country.”

Because human trafficking came up as a discussion item, the city took no formal action but agreed to study what should be done going forward.

(Editor’s note: Although Mayor Mark Chirco’s comments are only appearing in the ENE this week, it should be noted that they were made a few days BEFORE the most recent rash of attacks on Asian Americans, including the multiple murders in Georgia).

La Palma Council discusses signage and sale of fireworks

David N. Young
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La Palma Council discusses signage and sale of fireworks

On Mar. 2, 2021, the City of La Palma council discussed multiple items on their consent calendar. Two of these sparked major discussion amongst council members, these being the issue of public signage and the sale of safe and sane fireworks within the city.

The council first tackled the idea of revising their signage ordinance. This decision was partially motivated by the need to regulate signage in the public right of way (that is, public property in La Palma including sidewalks, curb gutter, the asphalt, etc.). Items of concern included excessive signage and damage to property like tree wells.

Another motivator was the Supreme Court ruling “Reed v. Town of Gilbert” in 2015, which required that sign regulation be neutral, regulating only time, place, location, and manner of placement instead of the exact text. The council believed it was time to examine the ordinance so that it was in line with this ruling.

Possible options the council discussed included prohibiting all temporary signs in the public right of way, revising the ordinance to state that temporary signs are allowed in public right of way, or allowing signs with some restrictions. Of note, the first option prohibits all signage, including real estate and election campaign signs.

Mayor Pro Tem Michele Steggell was especially vocal on this issue, stating that restrictive ordinance would hurt realtors and people looking to enter the housing market.
“Because if you say you can’t read it, or can’t put a sign here, and I have a house that I’m selling, right there on that street, that defeats the purpose of having an open house sign,” she said.

However, she did note that some regulation would be necessary.

“I am in favor of having signs. I’m not in favor of having so many signs, like the last couple of elections, especially this last one, I did not like the way our city looked,” she said.
Other council members pointed out that banning temporary signs in the public right of way would be unfair to new candidates in local elections. Given that signage is usually the cheapest and easiest way to get one’s name and policies out during election, regulation would make it harder for new candidates to compete with incumbents.

Councilmember Goodman believed that prohibiting signage in the right of way wouldn’t harm realtors or local elections, as there were other alternatives. Private property, including residence yards and businesses, would likely be exempt from any prohibitory regulation.

After a few failed motions to place regulations on signage, the council came to a compromise. A decision was made to revise the signage ordinance to allow temporary signs in the public right of way except for 10 weeks spanning September, October and the first half of November during even years. Unless the council makes further revisions to this motion, citizens can expect a prohibition on signs in the fall of 2022 and 2024.

The other item the council addressed was whether the city of La Palma should allow “safe and sane” fireworks to be sold (but not discharged) within city limits, as well as who should be allowed to sell them and where in the city they should be sold. For clarification, the safe and sane categories apply to fireworks that do not fly or explode.

The council stated that the issue was brought up by La Palma non profits, including the La Palma Christian Center/School, who wanted to set up booths to sell fireworks.

Discussion considered providing an application process where La Palma-based non profits could apply for a permit to sell fireworks, and allowing at max five organizations to have said permits. Said organizations could utilize their own parking areas to set up firework-selling booths.

However, the council cited a need to gauge public approval and speak with the police and fire departments to determine how big of an issue fireworks have been in the La Palma community. They decided to finalize the issue in April. Any possible fireworks ordinance would be announced in May, and take effect 30 days afterward in June.

Other objects of note included the council sending a letter of support for Assembly Bill 420, AB 420. This state legislation, introduced by Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva and Assemblywoman Suzette Martinez-Valladares, would adjust reopening guidelines to allow large and small amusement parks to reopen in the same tier, orange (moderate). Originally, guidelines had it so that parks with capacity above 15,000 could only reopen in the yellow (minimal) tier.

The council unanimously voted to send a letter of support, citing the employment losses and damage done to the amusement park industry by heavy Covid-19 guidelines and rising vaccination rates in California.

Local AAUW steps in to help Cerritos College students

Edna Ethington
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Local AAUW steps in to help Cerritos College students

The COVID 19 Pandemic has caused many economic problems and created a need for more help with meeting basic needs for students at Cerritos College. Diane Merrick, Co-Membership VP for the La-Palma Cerritos Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), said that she heard that many college students were living in cars and lacked food and other necessities and wanted to help students.

With the Board’s approval and support, Diane investigated local student needs. Since the La Palma-Cerritos AAUW has a working relationship with Cerritos College, she checked to see if help was needed by students at Cerrito College. She learned from Pamala Sepulveda, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), that 50 to 60 students do come and ask for help with basic needs at Cerritos through their centralized support service called, The Falcon’s Nest. The Falcon’s Nest as been set up to aid students that need food, housing, financial aid, etc. with Pamela Sepulveda as the Case Manager of Falcon Basic Needs.

Pamela provided a list of different food items such as canned food, dried food, cereal, rice, beans, and pasta, etc. She also included a list of personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, deodorants, feminine sanitary pads, tampons, razors, shaving gel, hairbrush, comb, floss, mouthwash, and hand sanitizers.

Armed with Pam’s list of needs, Diane asked members of the La Palma-Cerritos AAUW to donate as many as possible items from the list between March 18 to March 22. Members responded by donating 250 items of food and sundries for Cerritos College students to use. Pam came to Diane’s home in Long Beach to receive all of the donated items on March 22 and posed for a picture with Diane.

After this successful March collection of food items and sundries for Cerritos College students, Diane is already asking for members to donate more food and other items during the next collection days from Wednesday, April 14 to Monday, April 19. Community members who would also like to donate food or other sundries, can contact Diane through her e-mail at di*********@***il.com. Diane said that students will know that people care for them when they receive these donated items.

Southland Credit sponsors financial literacy bee

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Southland Credit sponsors financial literacy bee

Southland Credit Union today announced that it is sponsoring the EVERFI Financial Literacy Bee, taking place April 1-15, 2021. The EVERFI Financial Literacy Bee is a nationwide financial literacy challenge for high school students.

As families across the country are struggling financially in the wake of the pandemic, from unemployment to career shifts to a reduction in income, the EVERFI Financial Literacy Bee provides an opportunity for students to learn the critical importance of saving and budgeting for short-term and long-term financial goals.

The virtual challenge, created by social impact education innovator EVERFI, and supported by leading financial institutions nationwide, features four short digital lessons followed by a capstone essay contest in which students share a short-term or long-term savings goal and outline their plan to achieve that goal. Winners of the EVERFI Financial Literacy Bee will receive a total of up to $20,000 in college scholarships.

Additionally, Southland Credit Union will sponsor a bonus $1,000 scholarship for Los Angeles County and Orange County students who compete in the national contest.
“Financial wellness is a key component in achieving a contented and fulfilling life,” said Thomas Lent, Southland Credit Union President & CEO. “Southland is committed to promoting greater financial wellbeing for our Members and our communities, and we believe that starts with a solid foundation of meaningful financial education. We are proud to work with EVERFI on this initiative to support our local students.”

By competing in the challenge, participating students will gain new skills to create a personalized financial decision-making framework they can apply to their lives now and in the future. Topics include how to save, set financial goals, budget, and invest.

“The pandemic has shone a bright light on the financial vulnerability of most Americans, with 40 percent of American consumers reporting that they had trouble paying at least one bill or expense in 2020,” said Ray Martinez, co-founder and president, EVERFI. “We’ve always been committed to helping students increase their financial literacy, and during this historic time, we are also working to help parents feel more comfortable having dinner-table conversations about money. The Financial Literacy Bee is a fun way for students to learn important strategies to increase savings.”

In addition to supporting the EVERFI Financial Literacy Bee, Southland Credit Union works with EVERFI to provide K-12 schools with financial education courses in schools across Los Angeles and Orange County.

To learn more about the EVERFI Financial Literacy Bee, visit SouthlandCU.org/Bee.
Southland Credit Union is a $1 billion credit union that serves 60,000 members in Orange and Los Angeles Counties. Branch locations are in Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Downey, Carson, Santa Monica, St. John’s Health Center and the Los Angeles Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles.

Operating as a not-for-profit financial cooperative, Southland is dedicated to providing our Members with exceptional, comprehensive and innovative financial solutions, delivered with uniquely personal Southland service. For more information, visit www.southlandcu.org.

The impact of COVID on our children

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The impact of COVID on our children

By Dr. Robert Kaplan

As we head into the second year of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important to understand the effects of the virus on children. While the rate of infection in kids is much lower than in adults, children are not immune to COVID-19 and are suffering from both short-and long-term complications.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children’s Hospital Association, more than three million children and young adults tested positive for Covid-19 in the United States as of February 2021. Most of these kids experienced mild, if any, symptoms. There are probably many more who were infected, but because they were asymptomatic, testing was not done.

Although very rare, some kids will develop what is called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, also known as MIS-C, about four to six weeks after they are infected with Covid-19. MIS-C is a condition where different body parts – such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes or gastrointestinal organs – become inflamed. There have been about 2,000 cases of the condition reported so far in the U.S. Children with MIS-C can be very ill with high fevers, respiratory symptoms, rashes and more. Many are admitted to a hospital’s intensive care unit. The earlier these children are seen and diagnosed, the better the outcome. As a result, it is of utmost importance to contact your pediatrician right away if your child has any of these symptoms; fever that won’t go away, abdominal pain, diarrhea or vomiting, bloodshot eyes, or rashes or changes in skin color. Seek emergency care if your child experiences trouble breathing; pain or pressure in the chest that does not go away; new confusion; inability to wake or stay away; bluish lips or face; or severe abdominal pain.

In addition to MIS-C, another alarming trend is what is being referred to as “Long-Hauler’s Syndrome.” Physicians are seeing a large number of adults and children – who are either asymptomatic for COVID-19 or have mild symptoms – complain of fatigue, shortness of breath, loss of smell or taste, or brain fog weeks to months after they were infected. Even more troubling, these symptoms appear to linger and are often viewed as “emotional” problems. Parents should watch for these symptoms in their kids and not delay seeking care. Your pediatrician can partner with you and connect you with resources, including specialists who can help manage or treat abnormalities. Your pediatrician can ensure your children are staying healthy, including receiving timely vaccinations, managing chronic conditions and addressing mental health concerns. With a return-to-sports in schools and in the community, your pediatrician is also your resource for sports physicals, which are especially important following a COVID-19 infection.

Although the arrival of safe, effective COVID vaccines offers hope, we must all remain vigilant in protecting ourselves and others against the virus. Please continue to wear masks, keep your distance from individuals outside your household, avoid large indoor gatherings and wash your hands. As soon as you’re eligible, please get vaccinated. It’s truly the best way to protect our community.

Dr. Robert Kaplan is a Pediatrician with Los Alamitos Pediatrics

 

COVID-19 exposure affects more than the lungs

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COVID-19 exposure affects more than the lungs

By Diana Nens

While COVID-19 most frequently affects the lungs, other parts of the body may also be impacted, such as a loss of taste and smell. For a smaller number of people, instances of hearing loss are emerging, according to the International Journal of Audiology.

Of equal or greater concern is that some people with hearing loss may be opting to delay treatment, in part due to COVID-19 exposure concerns with in-person medical appointments for testing and care. While hearing aid sales reached nearly 3.5 million in 2020, that represents a significant decline compared to the previous year, which may be attributed to the fact that the average person with hearing loss waits seven years before seeking treatment.

Hearing loss is the third most common chronic condition among older Americans, affecting more than 48 million people nationwide. Hearing loss may become even more widespread in the future, in part because of an aging population and the frequent use of earbud headphones, which can contribute to noise-induced hearing loss.
Here are five tips to consider related to hearing loss during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the future:

Prevent Hearing Loss Before It Starts. Our ability to hear declines naturally as we age, especially among people over 65. But exposure to loud sounds – both one-time and cumulatively – can contribute to noise-induced hearing loss. To help reduce your risk, consider limiting exposure to loud sounds and the use of earbud headphones, especially when listening to music or movies on a mobile device. Consider over-the-ear headphones – especially models with noise-canceling properties – as those are generally considered a better option than earbuds. When using earbuds, follow the “60/60 rule”: listen for no more than 60 minutes at a time and at no more than 60% of the player’s maximum volume.

Look for Signs of Hearing Loss. For some people in the early stages of hearing loss, there is an expectation – and hope – the problem will resolve itself or improve eventually. The reality is hearing loss tends to gradually worsen over time without treatment. Unlike a broken bone or other physical injury, hearing follicles don’t regrow or repair themselves. Once someone has hearing loss, the most effective treatment is usually hearing aids. Common signs of hearing loss include turning up the volume on the TV or radio to levels that others find too loud, having trouble hearing people on the phone, and difficulty following conversations in noisy environments.

Evaluate Testing Options. Online hearing screeners can help people identify potential signs of hearing loss and start the process for accessing care. Meanwhile, some primary care physicians are starting to offer hearing testing, making it more convenient to follow recommended guidelines, which include being screened at least every decade through age 50 and then at three-year intervals thereafter. Consider checking with your employer-sponsored or Medicare Advantage health plan, which may be able to connect you with an audiologist or hearing health professional for testing.

Recognize the Risks of Avoiding Treatment. While some people may think diminished hearing is merely a nuisance or a sign of aging, it can have a significant impact on people’s overall health and well-being. For instance, people with hearing loss are 32% more likely to be hospitalized and have a 300% greater risk of falling, according to the Better Hearing Institute. For people in the workforce with hearing loss, the condition reduces household income by an average of $12,000 per year; the use of hearing aids can mitigate up to 50% of that loss. Importantly, people with hearing loss who obtain treatment experience a lower risk of falls, dementia and depression, as compared to individuals who delay treatment.
Consider Virtual Care and Home-Delivery Options. Some new regulations and companies are changing the way hearing aids are sold, helping to bring down costs.

Through home-delivery options, people may be able to purchase quality, custom-programmed hearing aids for less than $1,000 per device – a potential savings of up to 60% compared to devices sold through traditional channels.[2] As technology has improved and programming has become more precise, people with hearing test results may be able to order custom-programmed hearing aids, have them delivered to their doorstep and then adjusted virtually through a smartphone, potentially avoiding the need for in-person appointments with hearing health professionals.

About 80% of people who could benefit from using a hearing aid do not actually use them, often because of cost, limited knowledge, or lack of access to a hearing health professional. By considering these tips, people may be able to maintain or improve their hearing health and contribute to their overall well-being.

Diane Nens is an Audiologist and Senior Clinical Director, UnitedHealthcare Hearing

Foley sworn in as 2nd District Supervisor

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Foley sworn in as 2nd District Supervisor

Having won a special election to fill the remainder of Congresswoman Michelle Steel’s seat, Supervisor Katrina Foley has taken the oath of office for the 2nd District for the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

Foley was sworn in at noon on March 26th, at the Hall of Administration in Santa Ana. The Oath of Office was Administered by Superior Court Judge Karen L. Robinson, with Supervisor Foley’s family, key staff members attending.

“Today is the culmination of so much hard work,” said Supervisor Foley. “But it’s also the beginning of an important new journey. I have outlined the top priorities for my first 100 days, including expanded vaccine rollout, establishing a framework of public transparency, and meeting my key priorities.

My team and I look forward to working with our partners and colleagues in other offices, community organizations, and the residents of District 2. Let’s hit the ground running.”
In her inaugural address, Supervisor Foley outlined her core priorities for her first term in office, including:

• A strengthened COVID response focused on vaccine distribution in the first 100 days,
• Establishing public transparency through weekly briefings, town halls and satellite offices,
• Working with business, labor and public safety to build up workforce development programs,
• Continuing to address homeless needs and veterans.
Supervisor Foley also reiterated a commitment to clean energy, cleaner and quieter skies, and
protection of our coast, a core part of her agenda.
Foley introduced three of her team’s staff members, including:
• Nick Anas, Deputy Chief of Staff and Cheif COVID officer
• Jess Huang, Communications Director,
• Kimberlee Belli, Scheduler

With more staff to be announced.

Supervisor Katrina Foley represents Orange County’s 2nd District, including Costa Mesa, Cypress, Huntington Beach, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Newport Beach, Seal Beach, Stanton, the unincorporated area of Rossmoor, and portions of Buena Park and Fountain Valley.
CADEM Chairman Rusty Hicks issued a statement celebrating the Democratic breakthrough. “Despite the challenges, Katrina Foley led a phenomenal campaign, broke barriers for Democrats, and flipped a seat that’s been held by Republicans for more than a century,” he said.

Los Al nationally ranked softball scores a shutout

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Los Al nationally ranked softball scores a shutout

By Andrew Ficke

Los Alamitos High School’s nationally ranked varsity softball team played their first game of the 2021 season last Friday, shutting out the Cypress Centurions at Cypress High School with a score 7-0.

It had been a full year since the Lady Griffins played their last school game, as the majority of their 2020 season had been cancelled due to COVID-19 . Despite pandemic woes, the team resumed practice last August, with many players still finding game time outside of school on travel ball teams.

The Griffin’s offense remained powerful throughout the game, including several hits and stolen bases that collectively brought in 7 runs. Their pitchers put on an equally impressive performance, as Sydney Saldana, Mackenzie Ficke, and Carly Limosnero all pitched scoreless innings against the Cypress offense.

Looking forward to the rest of the 2021 season, head coach Rob Weil was confident in the team’s ability to perform:

“I’m very confident on what we have there right now. Our offense is very potent, our pitching is going to be what keeps us in ball games, and we always play solid defense. I think that overall, we are going to be very competitive every game we go out there.”
The Griffin’s varsity team is currently ranked eighth in the nation, and is expected to be competitive in both Sunset League and CIF tournaments this year.

Griffins roll 27-20 over Edison

Dave Peeters
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Griffins roll 27-20 over Edison

The Los Alamitos football team improved to 3-0 with a 27-20 win over Edison on Friday at Los Alamitos High. The Griffins led 20-13 at halftime, but the Chargers scored to tie the game 20-20 about midway through the fourth quarter. Los Alamitos regained the lead with a big pass play from Malachi Nelson to Makai Lemon to get into the red zone. The two followed that with another connection, this time for a touchdown that put the Griffins up 27-20. A sack on defense helped the Griffins hold off the Chargers late drive. Pictured above, Brian Jurado breaks from the pack for a first down. Pictured at right, Tyler Mclachlan kicks the extra point.

Photo by Dave Peeters

Lowenthal calls for strengthened Migratory Bird protections

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Lowenthal calls for strengthened Migratory Bird protections

Congressman Alan Lowenthal (CA-47), today, joined with co-leads Congressmen Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Mike Thompson (CA-05) and 63 of their House colleagues in calling on the Biden Administration’s Department of the Interior (DOI) to adopt specific recommendations to restore and strengthen protections to the century-old Migratory Bird Protection Act (MBTA) that were stripped away during the Trump presidency.

In a bipartisan letter to President Biden, the Members applaud the president for announcing a delay and reevaluation of the Trump-era MBTA rule that threatened millions of migratory birds as well as offers praise for the March 8, 2021 announcement that the Biden DOI would rescind the unlawful Trump-era DOI Solicitor’s opinion used to draft the Trump Administration rule.

The MBTA has been used for decades to mitigate, through permitting of industrial and commercial activity, incidental bird deaths. Even when these deaths have not been avoided, the MBTA has been a critical tool to invest the penalties levied against violators toward the recovery of impacted species.

The Trump Administration’s efforts to eliminate these important protections within the MBTA initially occurred on December 22, 2017, when the Trump DOI Solicitor’s office published its legal opinion claiming that the MBTA does not cover incidental take. The opinion was later ruled unlawful by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, which found that the reinterpretation “runs counter to the purpose of the MBTA”. Despite the ruling, the Trump Administration continued with the rule making process based on the unlawful Solicitor’s opinion and on January 7, 2021—just days before leaving office—the Trump DOI issued a new rule eliminating incidental take protections in the MBTA.

In addition to praising the Biden Administration plan to delay and reevaluate the Trump-era rule, the Members suggest to that the Biden DOI can simultaneously protect migratory birds while offering stakeholders regulatory certainty by, “…establishing a regulatory general-permit framework based on best management practices that provide legal coverage for a variety of activities that commonly take migratory birds incidentally.” The Members specifically cite the framework that was listed in the Fish And Wildlife Service Environmental Impact Study, under its “Alternatives Considered but Not Carried Forward for Further Review” as well as set out in the bipartisan Migratory Bird Protection Act (H.R. 5552 in the 116th Congress) in the House of Representatives.

The Members concluded, “We applaud your Administration’s efforts to overturn this rulemaking and instead focus on efforts that protect and sustain migratory bird population and uphold our international treaty obligations.”

Two Cypress College faculty recognized by state

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Two Cypress College faculty recognized by state

Two Cypress College faculty were recognized by a state organization for their efforts to advocate and provide excellent educational experiences for students with disabilities.
Dr. Dawn Decker, learning disability specialist, and Professor of Dance, Maha Afra were recognized by CAPED, the California Association for Postsecondary Education and Disability. The organization recently honored the two women for their efforts to make Cypress College an accessible place for students with disabilities.

Decker is a member of CAPED and was recognized internally by the organization for her efforts to ensure that students at Cypress College can access the resources they need in order to be successful in school.

“I feel like (this field) is something that chooses you. I feel like it chose me,” she said. “It’s not where I expected to be. I don’t even live in Orange County — I commute 30 miles to and from campus. But the second I walked onto campus, it felt right.”
Decker works in Cypress College’s Disability Support Services (DSS). She was selected for the CAPED President’s Award, a designation that is given to only one person per year within the organization.

Afra was nominated by Decker for the Teacher of the Year Award for her efforts. Afra, a self-proclaimed proud person with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, has developed dance classes that are accessible for students with disabilities. She said she pays special attention to each class and how each student learns so she can adapt her teaching style accordingly.

“You let the students inform how to teach, not have the students adapt to you,” Afra said. “The class is not about you; it is about the students. We want a collaborative space.”
Decker said this is precisely why she nominated Afra and why CAPED selected her for the award.

“She is such an advocate for the students. She exemplified what CAPED is about — every student having access,” Decker said of Afra.

Cypress College has prioritized accessibility in its programming. The college has: adaptive equipment; note-taking assistance; test accommodations; the ARISE hub, a space for students, faculty, and staff to unwind from the stresses of college life; and more. The ARISE (Academics, Relationships, Independence, Self-Advocacy, Emotional Health) Hub was originally designed to be a comforting, low-stimuli space for students with autism and other mental health conditions, but evolved to provide these services for all students and faculty.

Decker said that Cypress College is so accessible thanks to the hard work, advocacy, and dedication of the entire college to ensure all students can learn.

“We have a fantastic team at Cypress DSS. [Afra] and I may have been the awardees on this, but it’s our team behind us,” she said. “Nobody does this in a vacuum; no one does this alone. We lean on each other. Our hearts are on our students. We want to make sure all of our students have these opportunities.”

Cypress College President JoAnna Schilling, Ph.D. said the college is committed to providing accessible learning for all students who want to attend.

“Cypress College believes that we are made better by having a diverse group of students and by creating an environment of inclusion for all who wish to learn,” Dr. Schilling said. “Having faculty and staff who are also committed to ac

Cypress School District administrators win state recognition

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Cypress School District administrators win state recognition

The Cypress School District is proud to announce that two of its district administrators have been recognized for outstanding leadership by the Association of California School Administrators, Region 17.

Superintendent Anne Silavs was named Orange County Superintendent of the Year while Teresa Lennox was named Classified Employee of the Year.

Silavs has served the Cypress School District as Superintendent since 2015. She is an educational leader whose daily work epitomizes the district’s core values and mission to “inspire and empower every student, every moment, for every opportunity.” Her visionary leadership has supported the achievement of many notable accomplishments during her tenure which include constructing dedicated facilities to support districtwide music and STEM programs, implementing a California State Preschool Program, and acquiring a new district headquarters.

“Without question, Anne inspires everyone. She demonstrates high levels of leadership ability, interpersonal skills, and commitment to providing exemplary educational opportunities. Anne encourages the development of programs that foster creativity and excitement within the district,” said Bonnie Peat, President of the Cypress School District Board of Trustees.

Anne Silavs

As school districts dealt with how to effectively provide an educational program in a pandemic environment, Superintendent Silavs envisioned giving families a choice in how their children would attend school during this extraordinary time. While most districts offered a distance learning and/or hybrid schedule, Cypress School District successfully provided families with a third option of a full-time in-person schedule, enabling parents to select the option that best served the needs of their children and family.

Cypress City Manager Peter Grant remarked, “Under Anne’s leadership, our community has never been better served by, or more proud of, the Cypress School District. Her recommendation to open schools and her unwavering commitment to safety have positively impacted our students and community-at-large.

“It has not been, nor does it continue to be, an easy task,” said Board President Peat. “Anne continues to lead and guide with courage and dedication.”
“I am very honored to be recognized, especially during this extremely challenging school year,” said

Superintendent Silavs. “Everyone in our district shares in this award. It has been an amazing team effort!”

Teresa Lennox, meanwhile, has been named Classified Leader of the Year by the Association of the California School Administrators.

Lennox has served the Cypress School District as Director of Maintenance/ Operations, Transportation, and Technology since 2018, and the impact of her leadership in the district has been far-reaching. From ensuring school campuses are safe and well-maintained to providing students and staff with the technology tools needed for success, she is tireless in her commitment to supporting the district’s educational program.

“Teresa is a remarkable public servant who makes everyone around her better. She is student-centered, understands how to effectively support teaching and learning, and continually contributes to the success of our school district in a meaningful way,” said Tim McLellan, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services.

While school districts around the country struggled this past year to effectively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mrs. Lennox became an avid student of evidence-based public health strategies and virus mitigation measures.

“Teresa was instrumental in supporting our efforts to provide three school schedule options for families this year,” said Superintendent Anne Silavs. “We could never have done it without her!”

In preparation for reopening the district’s six schools, Mrs. Lennox reworked transportation schedules, reconfigured classrooms, installed protective equipment, and implemented many safety protocols to provide layered protection for students and staff. As a result of her leadership, the district was able to effectively welcome students back to campus for in-person instruction in September 2020.

“Her creative forethought, innovative problem-solving, and execution were remarkable,” said Julie Armour, President of the Association of Cypress Teachers.

“Teresa played a key role in reopening our schools,” said Vickie Ohlman, President of the California School Employees Association, Chapter 325. “She worked closely with association leaders throughout the planning process. She didn’t just ask how we could make this work. Instead, she asked how we could make this work better.”The Cypress School District is proud to announce that two of its district administrators have been recognized for outstanding leadership by the Association of California School Administrators, Region 17.
Superintendent Anne Silavs was named Orange County Superintendent of the Year while Teresa Lennox was named Classified Employee of the Year.

Silavs has served the Cypress School District as Superintendent since 2015. She is an educational leader whose daily work epitomizes the district’s core values and mission to “inspire and empower every student, every moment, for every opportunity.” Her visionary leadership has supported the achievement of many notable accomplishments during her tenure which include constructing dedicated facilities to support districtwide music and STEM programs, implementing a California State Preschool Program, and acquiring a new district headquarters.

“Without question, Anne inspires everyone. She demonstrates high levels of leadership ability, interpersonal skills, and commitment to providing exemplary educational opportunities. Anne encourages the development of programs that foster creativity and excitement within the district,” said Bonnie Peat, President of the Cypress School District Board of Trustees.

As school districts dealt with how to effectively provide an educational program in a pandemic environment, Superintendent Silavs envisioned giving families a choice in how their children would attend school during this extraordinary time. While most districts offered a distance learning and/or hybrid schedule, Cypress School District successfully provided families with a third option of a full-time in-person schedule, enabling parents to select the option that best served the needs of their children and family.

Cypress City Manager Peter Grant remarked, “Under Anne’s leadership, our community has never been better served by, or more proud of, the Cypress School District. Her recommendation to open schools and her unwavering commitment to safety have positively impacted our students and community-at-large.

“It has not been, nor does it continue to be, an easy task,” said Board President Peat. “Anne continues to lead and guide with courage and dedication.”

“I am very honored to be recognized, especially during this extremely challenging school year,” said

Superintendent Silavs. “Everyone in our district shares in this award. It has been an amazing team effort!”

Teresa Lennox, meanwhile, has been named Classified Leader of the Year by the Association of the California School Administrators.

Lennox has served the Cypress School District as Director of Maintenance/ Operations, Transportation, and Technology since 2018, and the impact of her leadership in the district has been far-reaching. From ensuring school campuses are safe and well-maintained to providing students and staff with the technology tools needed for success, she is tireless in her commitment to supporting the district’s educational program.

“Teresa is a remarkable public servant who makes everyone around her better. She is student-centered, understands how to effectively support teaching and learning, and continually contributes to the success of our school district in a meaningful way,” said Tim McLellan, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services.

While school districts around the country struggled this past year to effectively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mrs. Lennox became an avid student of evidence-based public health strategies and virus mitigation measures.

“Teresa was instrumental in supporting our efforts to provide three school schedule options for families this year,” said Superintendent Anne Silavs. “We could never have done it without her!”

In preparation for reopening the district’s six schools, Mrs. Lennox reworked transportation schedules, reconfigured classrooms, installed protective equipment, and implemented many safety protocols to provide layered protection for students and staff. As a result of her leadership, the district was able to effectively welcome students back to campus for in-person instruction in September 2020.

“Her creative forethought, innovative problem-solving, and execution were remarkable,” said Julie Armour, President of the Association of Cypress Teachers.
“Teresa played a key role in reopening our schools,” said Vickie Ohlman, President of the

California School Employees Association, Chapter 325. “She worked closely with association leaders throughout the planning process. She didn’t just ask how we could make this work. Instead, she asked how we could make this work better.”

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Anaheim Cypress honors Youth of the Year

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Boys & Girls Club of Greater Anaheim Cypress honors Youth of the Year

On Friday, March 5th, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress honored Youth of the Year Joecelyn S. and Junior Youth of the Year Ava M. at the Orange County Youth of the Year Ceremony. The theme of the event was “Celebrating BRIGHT Futures” and was held virtually. Joecelyn and Ava were amongst fifteen additional exemplary Orange County Boys & Girls Club members recognized at the event for their leadership skills, involvement in Club programming, and overall positive attitudes.

Ava M. is an eighth grader at Lexington Junior High. She is a self-proclaimed “Vice President of everything” and participates in Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress’s virtual programming daily. She is involved in Debate Club, Video Creation Club, Cooking Club, Leadership Club, and many others. Ava credits the Club for providing her with friendships and confidence amidst the pandemic and hopes to run for Youth of the Year in the future.

Joecelyn was selected to participate in the county-wide competition against six other teens for the title of Orange County Youth of the Year. She is a sophomore at University High School and has been a member with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress for over five years. As Keystone Club President, Joecelyn has played an instrumental role in leading activities for Club teens. As a student with moderate hearing loss, Joecelyn has learned to become an advocate for herself and others. She worked with her Club to make modifications for hearing impaired students and led American Sign Language classes for her peers. Joecelyn plans to go to a university to receive her teaching credential after high school to educate the deaf and hard of hearing.

As part of Joecelyn’s Youth of the Year judging process, she had to submit multiple essays to Boys & Girls Clubs of America, as well as interview with a panel of judges and recite a speech about her commitment to her Boys & Girls Club and the community. Joecelyn received a $500 scholarship courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress for her achievements. At the conclusion of the ceremony Giselle A. from Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley was crowned the Orange County Youth of the Year. She will move on to represent the county at the state competition in April. Winners progress to the regional and national level. The National Youth of the Year serves as an exemplary ambassador for Boys & Girls Club youth and must embody the values of leadership and service, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyles.

Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. Since 1947, Youth of the Year has been Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premiere recognition program, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Club members. Youth of the Year recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as overcoming personal challenges and obstacles. Youth of the Year encourages Club members to reach their full potential by achieving academic success, leading healthy lifestyles and contributing to their communities.

Youth Center hosts “Bollywood” fundraiser

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Youth Center hosts “Bollywood” fundraiser

On Saturday, March 27, The Youth Center held its 2021 Annual Community Support Campaign Event – a Bollywood Experience, at Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach. The socially distanced event was the culminating affair of The Youth Center’s 2021 Community Support Campaign, which exceeded the nonprofit organization’s fundraising goal of $200K for the year.

It was an evening of carefree indulgence – Indian style, featuring a champagne greeting, traditional Indian cuisine, dancing to Bollywood music, live Bollywood entertainment, a hosted bar, silent auction and experience rooms featuring a spice room, taste of India, scavenger & fashion, jewelry auction, Diwali festival, sweets & treats and henna art.
Special guests at the event included City of Los Alamitos Council Member Ron Bates, Los Alamitos School Board member Chris Forehan, Recreation City Team Ron & Emeline Noda, Summer Harvest CEO Amy Payne, Lion’s Club and Rotary Club Members, and The Youth Center Board of Directors.

Lina Lumme, Executive Director of The Youth Center said, “We could not have raised the much-needed funds for local kids without the support of Captain Byerley, campaign Chairs, Chad Kidder and William Chiem, 2021 campaigners, everyone in attendance, our amazing staff and volunteers, who worked for the entire month securing pledges of support, and our generous sponsors.”

For one month leading up to the ‘Bollywood Experience,’ individuals, local businesses and the community at large were challenged to raise $1,000 each to help The Youth Center meet the needs of and inspire hope in our local kids. Prior to the Experience, over $105,000 had been raised through sponsorships and individuals asking friends and family for their support. Money raised during the Community Support Campaign will help The Youth Center to nurture youth in mind, body and spirit by keeping them safe and active, providing tutoring and homework help, teaching instrumental music, offering leadership, life skills and career training and offering scholarships to families in need.

The Youth Center would like to thank and acknowledge their magnanimous sponsors: Epson, Edward Jones, Statewide Mortgage Services, Newfront Insurance, Egan CPAs LP, Vinclair Corporation, Evergreen Alliance, John Barry & Associates, Artisan Features, UBS Financial Services, Joyce Leckband, Patricia Adams, Sean Zarate, The Sun News, Event-News Enterprise, and Davidson and Moore Commercial Flooring.

“In addition, The Youth Center is exceedingly grateful to its Legacy Members and Campaigners, all of whom donated $1,000 or more.”, shared Shivani Hiralal, Director of Development. “These major supporters help The Youth Center plan for the future and improve programs for youth.”

The Youth Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is to transform children’s lives one family at a time through collaborative social, educational and recreational programs. Since the birth of The Youth Center in 1952, The Youth Center has been honored to establish valuable partnerships within the community and acknowledges their critical importance in the organization’s current and future success. For additional information on The Youth Center, please call (562) 493-4043 or visit www.TheYouthCenter.org.

Los Alamitos collaborates with Lee Elementary for team building

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Los Alamitos collaborates with Lee Elementary for team building

Starting March 22, 2021, fifth graders at Lee Elementary School participated in a week-long event called 5th Grade Next Level. Lee Elementary’s PTA partnered with the City of Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department to host activities on campus during the school day and four nighttime events. During the day on campus, students participated in team building activities led by the 5th grade teachers, crafts, and physical team competitions.

In the evenings, the Los Alamitos Recreation & Community Services staff led student teams through a rotation of stations including rock wall climbing, physical fitness obstacle courses, trivia, and an Arbor Day activity in partnership with Rossmoor Community Services District at the two-day Scavenger Hunt Nights at Rossmoor Park. The Park-a-palooza evening event took place at Little Cottonwood Park and included astronomy, s’mores, team competitions, magic, and snow play. The week closed out with a drive-in movie night for fifth graders at Little Cottonwood Park.

The partnership between Lee Elementary’s PTA, the Rossmoor Community Services District, and the City of Los Alamitos helped to create a memorable week of experiences for this year’s 5th graders. The activities promoted leadership, fostered teamwork, developed student confidence, and created a shared experience which helps students connect with one another. Principal Amy Vento said, “5th Grade Next Level allowed our students time to bond with others and create memories they will treasure for years to come.”

In Rossmoor, governance again becomes an issue

David N. Young
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In Rossmoor, governance again becomes an issue

The Rossmoor Community Services District has signaled a retreat just weeks after asking a local legislator to file a bill seeking to pave the way for more control over the unincorporated area.

The problem began when the Directors held a special meeting Feb. 25 with Assemblywoman Janet Nguyen to discuss a bill that would have created a path for the RCSD to be released from the control of a state agency that governs unincorporated areas across the state.

Fast forward to the Directors monthly meeting in March, as some residents were furious at the board for what they called “a lack of transparency,” regarding the meeting at which they authorized the legislation to move forward.

Some even suggested the board’s special meeting had potentially damaged their credibility.
Others, meanwhile, expressed vocal support for the Director’s action. They say the district’s inability to govern its own future has created a lopsided financial relationship with the county and sometimes results only in an inability to independently act on critical problems facing the community.

As an unincorporated area, Rossmoor must operate under OC LAFCO (Orange County Local Agency Formation Commission), an organization that regulates the activities of all unincorporated areas of Orange County (functional areas that are not villages, cities or towns).

According to the agency’s website, “LAFCO serves the citizens of Orange County by facilitating constructive changes in governmental structure and boundaries through special studies, programs, and actions that resolve intergovernmental issues, by fostering orderly development and governance.”

Orange County LAFCO decided in 2006 to place Rossmoor in the Los Al “sphere of influence,” and the two communities do share a mutual sewer district.

The residents of Rossmoor have long, and fiercely, defended their independence. A move to annex the upscale community of more than 10,000 residents into either Seal Beach or the city of Los Alamitos has been discussed over the years.

Residents actually voted on a “cityhood” proposition in 2008, with more than 72 percent voting to reject the “Measure U” proposal to transform Rossmoor into Orange County’s 35th incorporated city.

Even so, Rossmoor officials continue to find themselves at the mercy of county officials on whom they must depend for routine public services that nearby incorporated communities provide for themselves. According to Rossmoor CSD general counsel, Tarquin Preziosi, there are only two ways for Rossmoor to be granted latent powers, either being granted additional power by LAFCO or by amending the law that granted the Community Services District in 1987.

In that special meeting, district Directors voted 4-1 in favor of authorizing Assemblywoman Nguyen to file a bill on the district’s behalf (Director Nathan Searles voted against). According to the minutes, Rossmoor CSD President Jeffrey Barke said the special meeting was necessary because the bill filing deadline was Feb. 26.
RCSD General Director Joe Mendoza said the meeting had been properly noticed to the community.

Nevertheless, at the district’s regular meeting two weeks ago, Michael Maynard, former RCSD President, appeared to provide context to the latent powers issue.
In his opinion, Maynard said Rossmoor had been shortchanged since creation of the community services district because whoever filed the bill, failed to check the right boxes to grant full powers to the district.

New legislation, therefore, is the only logical remedy to fix the problem, he said.
Many other communities like Rossmoor around the state have already passed similar bills to achieve latent powers, said Maynard.

The former RCSD President said for years, they made a valiant effort to work through OC-LAFCO with strong community support.

Maynard said the agency said they would first have to spend up to $400,000 for a “municipal services review,” after which there was “no guarantee” of being granted latent powers.

Back then, Maynard said the RCSD formed a special committee, with two members from Rossmoor Homeowners Association, two from RCSD and two members at large. “We had complete community support,” he said.

Then, as now, he said Rossmoor was seeking more control over three primary issues, including animal control, trash collection and policing.

Facing such a huge financial risk of $400,000 for a study, Maynard said “I’d be the first one saying don’t do it.” With the board saving for the future, the former board president said the district would have been “crazy to gamble” so much on something that “might not come true.”

Therefore, Maynard said latent powers is the only realistic option. Actually, Maynard said the district was set more or less to file the same bill last year, with former Assemblyman Tyler Diep, but COVID struck, prompting legislators to sidetrack all non-health related bills.
Residents weighing in at the district regular meeting in March, said less about the latent powers debate and much about the lack of transparency with which the legislative push had taken shape.

“I think a lot of people have really serious questions about whether we should or we shouldn’t have additional powers for RCSD,” said Ralph Vartebedian, a longtime RHA President. In fact, Vartebedian said the community was not against the move, just unhappy with the way it was done.

“They’re open minded about that (legislation),” said Vartebedian, “but they are definitely unhappy about how this issue surfaced.”

According to Vartebedian, “it was never ever expressed to the community as a whole. That’s where the beef is. And because of that,” he added, “I think the RCSD is actually damaged.” He asked the board to consider slowing down the process and explaining the issue to the community before seeking the legislative fix.

“The hallmark of good governance is transparency,” said Kevin Boylan, “and I think we have failed in this one. Given the fact that this has been an issue for many years, I’d never suggest this is the best thing to do.” He also suggesting slowing things down.

Kevin Pearce, meanwhile, said he totally agreed with the board’s decision, “This is not a ramming through of some sort of bill, this is a placeholder for a two-year process where we can then get community support,” he said.

“So I would appreciate you continuing on the path of seeking latent powers,” said Pearce.
“I think we overwhelmingly elected Dr. Barke to bring these types of opportunities to the community,” said Rossmoor resident Angie Epstein. “This (meeting) doesn’t mean we have committed or signed anything,” she said, adding that “I support local control over our services.”

Another resident suggested even if the special meeting with Nguyen was properly noticed, there was still insufficient community outreach about it. One resident even chided the board for misinforming residents about the Nguyen bill itself, saying state records indicated that it was filed three days before the “special meeting” even took place.
Nevertheless, the board heard a dozen or so speakers, both in person and over Zoom, and who each made similar arguments. Those angry about meeting protested more about the process than the legislation.

Administrative Assistant Liz Deering told the board the district was now working with its IT partners to develop a variety of new messaging apps and email options to better inform district residents.

Although the board took no action at its regular meeting, General Manager Joe Mendoza said later that President Barke and Assemblywoman Nguyen had spoken and agreed to withdraw the bill for the current session while the RCSD refines the specific language of the bill and shares it with the community.

That news brought quick praise from the Rossmoor Homeowner’s Association.
“The Rossmoor Homeowners Association applauds the decision to delay the process by a year. RHA asked in a board approved resolution that the process be delayed, not because RHA necessarily opposes enhanced powers but because RCSD had not yet gained broad consensus in the community before moving forward,” the organization said in a statement.

“We hope that the delay allows RCSD to develop a well thought out plan that can explain why enhanced powers will make the community a better place and how the district would handle and pay for the additional administrative workload of contracting out the services. Once it gains strong community support, it can move forward on a stronger footing,” the statement concluded.

In other March action, the RCSD board;
• Learned from OC Animal Care Services that because of many complaints about unleashed dogs, regular patrols would begin in the parks.
• Heard from Mendoza that the district could soon have a geographic information system to digitally pinpoint every traffic safety asset in the community.
• Adopted an interim budget resolution that indicates the district could, despite COVID, end up with a $170,000 surplus.

Wooldridge named Brigadier General in JFTB ceremony

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Wooldridge named Brigadier General in JFTB ceremony

By E. Isaac Lee & David N. Young

Outside the Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) in Los Alamitos, dozens of military personnel mill about in masks and fatigues. Old Glory waves in the wind, and the band practices “The Army Goes Rolling Along.”

Inside the base, soon-to-be General Robert Wooldridge, finds himself overwhelmed at the pomp.

“I’m a simple guy, and this is kind of like a wedding,” Woolridge said. “I’m flattered. It’s pretty cool.”

During the pandemic, on Feb. 13th, Gen. Robert Wooldridge was quietly promoted to brigadier general and became deputy commander of the California Army National Guard’s 40th Infantry Division, headquartered at JFTB.

On Saturday, Wooldridge’s official promotion ceremony was held outdoors with limited attendance and health measures put in place, marking the first promotion ceremony held at the base since the pandemic began.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. David S. Baldwin, the Adjutant General for the California National Guard addresses the audience while Maj. Gen. Laura Yeager, commander of the California Army National Guard and the 40th Infantry Division, and newly promoted Brig. Gen. Robert Wooldridge, deputy commander of support for the 40th ID listen during Wooldridge’s promotion ceremony at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, California, March 13, 2021. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Kimberly Hill)

Those present included Wooldridge’s friends and family, and his colleagues Major General David S. Baldwin, the Adjutant General of the California Military Department, Brigadier General and fellow deputy commander Michael J. Leeney, and Major General Laura L. Yeager, the first female to ever lead the 40th Infantry Division.

“Rob has demonstrated an ability to lead troops in a complex inter-agency environment time and time again,” said Gen. Baldwin. “He is an expert at solving very complex problems in a volatile situation, in volatile environments, and we’re going to see more of that as time comes,” he added.

Baldwin hinted that the storied 40th Infantry Division could soon be deployed overseas again, in the Middle East, and Gen. Wooldrige’s ability to come up with “innovative solutions” could be “decisive” on future battlefields, he said.

“He thinks critically and strategically,” said Gen. Yeager, reading from her evaluation of Wooldridge many years ago. “He is multi-talented and conversant in combat and combat support.” “Nothing makes me happier than being right,” she said to the attending troops and well-wishers.

Baldwin presented Wooldridge the customary belt, holster and pistol awarded only to U.S. Army General Officers, a tradition that dates back to George Washington. Wooldridge also received his “one-start” ceremonial flag, which will now be flown anywhere the general is in attendance as his wife Serena, and their children, Hunter, Onyx and Eli looked on.

Prior to the proceedings, Gen. Wooldridge spoke with the ENE about his work in the National Guard.

As Deputy Commanding General for support, Gen. Wooldridge now leads the combat support efforts for the 40th I.D. The general must systematically provide maintenance, logistics, human resources, and medical services for the troops, regardless of where in the world they are called on to serve.

Wooldridge admits the role of the division has changed. He must also deal with civil affairs, having taken part in two active-duty missions to deal with civil disturbances related to the George Floyd protests and guarding the state capitol during the inauguration.

“The higher you get, the more you have to learn, so learning logistics, sustainment and health services and all this other stuff that I’m in charge of now has been enormous,” said Wooldridge. As the man in charge of support operations, Gen. Wooldridge summed up his responsibilities as “sweating now so we don’t bleed later.”

He also spoke about the Guard’s involvement in the Covid-19 pandemic and last year’s political tension. One unique aspect about Covid-19 has been the longevity of the situation, requiring more time from members of the National Guard.

“We’re used to coming in for a (wild)fire for a couple of weeks and helping out,” the Brigadier General said. “Even Hurricane Katrina, which was months, you know, that was only a few months. He said the pandemic was different. “This is a once in a century, I’m hoping it’s a once in a century,” said Wooldridge.

Lately, California National Guard resources have been heavily focused on domestic events. According to Wooldridge, over 1800 soldiers are involved in assisting food banks and setting up vaccination clinics in Oakland and CSU Los Angeles.
Regional Medical strike teams have been assisting understaffed hospitals across the state for the past year.

“From my perspective it’s been our busiest year,” Gen. Wooldridge said. “It’s impacted our daily lives and a lot of our medical folks that normally do one weekend a month, two weeks a year, they’ve been on active duty solid for the last year. So it’s been a huge impact on them and their families.”

Of course, the pandemic isn’t the only thing the National Guard has had to deal with. The protests prompted by the death of George Floyd required a great deal of the 40th Division’s focus. According to the Associated Press, over 8,000 National Guard soldiers were deployed to deal with civil unrest over this incident in California alone. During the 2021 presidential inauguration, security around government buildings like the State Capitol became a concern after the incident on Jan. 6.

Gen. Wooldridge recalled being in charge of the Guard’s deployment to guard the state capital building, as well as partnering with the local police.

“[California Highway Patrol] gave us the responsibility as a part of their security, and it was an integral part of their defense of the Capitol,” he said. “We know that there were planned protests of over 4000 people, and nobody showed up. There were both far right and far left leaning protests scheduled, and it was peaceful.”

At the time, it appeared that the National Guard was being called on to defend democracy, as some outlets put it. Gen. Wooldridge emphasized that during the interview.

“The military has a long tradition of being apolitical. We answer to civilian authority, whatever it is: Democrat, Republican, Independent, left, right, center, who cares. We swear an oath to the Constitution,” he said. “And so to be there [guarding the capital], making sure that we were defending it – that’s certainly the state capital, a symbol of democracy. Actually, the legislature was in session for some of that, and we were there literally defending those people.”

In other areas related to the National Guard, Gen. Wooldridge shared some new technology being developed for military use. New systems have improved military logistics, and the possibility of 3d printing metal could make supplying troops much easier. Vaccination is also being encouraged among the troops in order to reach the July 4th goal set by President Biden in a recent speech.

As the celebration began in earnest and the staff were called outside, Gen. Wooldridge reaffirmed the duty of the National Guard.

“It doesn’t matter what the presidency, who’s in charge. We’re ready to do whatever the president or the governor needs for us to do,” he said. “I’m really honored to have the appreciation from the citizens of California, so it’s a great day.”

Los Al Jazz to present “Spotlight, the next generation” March 30

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Los Al Jazz to present “Spotlight, the next generation” March 30

The Jazz program at Los Alamitos High School presents its annual “Spotlight, The Next Generation of Jazz”, featuring the LAHS, McAuliffe and Oak Jazz bands Tuesday, March 30 at 7 p.m., according to spokesperson Paurvi Trivedi.

The televised event will also feature special guests, Aubrey Logan on vocals and trombone, Chad Lefkowitz-Brown on saxophone and Katisse Buckingham on flute, she said.
“These talented musicians will collaborate with each of the high school Jazz Bands during a hand-crafted virtual concert that is sure to inspire both student musicians and audience alike,” she said.

According to Trivedi, “our community will have the opportunity to enjoy the best of ‘The Next Generation of Jazz’ and our students will get to connect with professionals who have taken their classroom musical experience into the real world.”
Proceeds from this concert benefit the jazz programs. She said the COVID-19 Pandemic essentially silenced the district’s jazz program one day prior to our last scheduled Spotlight in March 2020.

“More than ever, our young artists need the joy of musical creation, collaboration and performance,” she said.

The event proceeds will allow the program to re-think and re-build within their current realities to continue to shine the spotlight on their passion, talent and tenacity, said Trivedi in a press release.

Funding supports this jazz endeavor, spring jazz activities and clinics from local, professional musicians. The ticket link will be provided upon registration at https://lahsjazzorchestra.anywhereseat.com.

She said sponsorships are available for this event, including sponsoring a guest artist.

“When you sponsor a guest artist, you are sponsoring one of our eminent visiting artists to perform at the Spotlight concert. Three guest artist sponsorships are available for Spotlight 2021,” she said.

For additional information, please contact pa************@***il.com.

Beware of rhetoric

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Beware of rhetoric

Dear Editor,

Our elected officials are often judged through their rhetoric (as reported) and not their accomplishments. Since 2016, a media focus on hyperbolic speech resulted in > 90% negative reporting of our elected Executive branch representatives. Despite this, and in contrast to the perspective in Art Oster’s letter (“Something we can agree on”, 3/11/21), many Americans assess the accomplishments of the past administration while letting the rhetoric pass. These people do not “gaze in awe” as Oster suggests; they form opinions based on measurable accomplishments, good and bad.

Those who focus on rhetoric (as reported) and have blinders to accomplishments may be making decisions that are not in their own best interests. These people may ask What Accomplishments? Here is a short list for 2017-2020.
Record employment for minorities and women with middle class wage increases leading the pack

Union manufacturing jobs returned to the US

Increased energy independence using cleaner extraction methods over foreign producers
Reduced US engagement overseas while still proving US willingness to defend our interests
Middle East peace agreements that leveraged economic benefits to the partners while acknowledging political differences (live and let live)
Created and managed a public/private partnership that met emergency needs in record time (Operation Warp Speed)

~40% increase in the National Debt (from 2016)
What about 2021? It is early, but the trends are illuminating.
Curtailing energy production (increasing gas prices)
Cancelling Union jobs (pipeline construction, energy production)
Green union jobs moving to Mexico (Ford EV)
Increasing illegal migration (lures of benefits, removal of constraints);
Overtures of war (Middle East, North Korea)
Rocky exchanges with nuclear powers (US-China talks in Alaska, Russia President accusations)
~7% increase in the National Debt to date (from 2020)

Based on accomplishments with blinders on rhetoric, the pro-union, anti-war, green job, and American-citizen-first 2020 Presidential candidate is obvious. Focusing on rhetoric with blinders on accomplishments, we see who was widely available to the media and characterized by their reporting of his hyperbolic speech; the other candidate was (and continues to be) unavailable to the media. As we head toward future elections, we should take rhetoric-based reporting with a grain of salt, and measure our local, state, and national candidates by what they have done for our community and our country … their record of accomplishments, good and bad.
Craig Pollock
Los Alamitos

 

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