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The Youth Center Wins $11K in UCLA Social Enterprise Academy Non-Profit Competition

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The Youth Center Wins $11K in UCLA Social Enterprise Academy Non-Profit Competition

On May 29, 2020 the UCLA Social Enterprise Academy Showcase took place via zoom with over 1,300 viewers. Three finalist teams representing local community non-profit organizations pitched business ventures to a panel of industry experts, angel investors and prominent members of the UCLA community for the chance to win cash awards toward their ventures. The Youth Center was among the three finalists, taking second place and winning $11,000 toward their venture – Camp S.H.A.R.K. After School Adventures.

“Since 2011, the UCLA Social Enterprise Academy has helped over 40 local nonprofits develop social enterprises.  The six-month, award-winning program connects undergraduate students with nonprofit organizations to identify earned income opportunities for each of their nonprofit organizations. This was an incredible opportunity to be accepted and we did not dream of winning it all. Our outstanding team of staff, Board members and students put their hearts and soul into this project”, shared Lina Lumme, Executive Director.

Beginning in November, 2019, staff members Lina Lumme and Jamie Harris, along with Board members Arnie Fine, Eric Frankenberg, Jennifer Fontanilla and Nate Epstein worked directly with a team of 5 UCLA student consultants, Minh Mai, Katie Hayden, Alix Le Boterff, Jaewoo Chang and Dominic Le Fort to develop a successful enterprise idea, conduct market research, create a business plan, and pitch the venture to compete for cash and pro bono prizes. The program combines teamwork, expert training and individualized coaching in a comprehensive approach to help develop successful social enterprises. Ten Southern California community non-profits organizations competed in the Academy, with three finalists – The Youth Center, Jazz Hands for Autism and Dream Catchers presenting in the Final Showcase on May 28th for the win.

Training for the Academy was led by UCLA faculty, alumni, and industry professionals from the Academies of Social Entrepreneurship. Throughout the course of the program, students and local community organizations gain insight into idea generation, market research, financial planning and business planning.

For The Youth Center, the timing of the UCLA Social Enterprise Academy could not have been better. In 2023, The Youth Center’s lease for their home of 50 years will expire. “Imagine Los Alamitos without The Youth Center – it’s nearly impossible right? In just a few short years, instead of being a fear, it could become our reality. Because of the hard work and dedication from our UCLA team, we now have a social enterprise that could help us secure a home for The Youth Center,” exclaimed Harris.

The goal for The Youth Center team was to develop an earned income opportunity that would help fund a new, permanent home, while continuing to make a difference for kids in the community – the resulting social enterprise is Camp S.H.A.R.K. After School Adventures. The team identified the organization’s 20 passenger bus as an underutilized resource. Each year, Camp S.H.A.R.K. (an acronym for Science, Hands-on Activities, Art, Recreation and Knowledge) and Camp S.H.A.R.K. field trips are a huge success. The After-School Adventures will consist of The Youth Center’s bus, with two staff members picking up 18 lucky kids from their elementary or middle school and taking them on fun, educational and philanthropic adventures to places like the Seal Beach Animal Care Center, Food Banks, Friends of the Sea Lion Rescue Center and more.  “I am excited to launch Camp S.H.A.R.K. After School Adventures and I can’t wait to see the lasting impact it will make on not only the children, but our community has a whole,” Program Director Jamie Harris said.

For more information about Camp S.H.A.R.K. After School Adventures or Summer programs being offered, contact The Youth Center.

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) 248-6777 or visit www.TheYouthCenter.org.

 

 

Courtesy photo

Top row, left to right: Jamie Harris, Alix Le Boterff, Eric Frankenberg, Jaewoo Chang,

Dominic Le Fort, Katie, Minh. Bottom row, left to

Enterprise donates $2,000 to Cypress Children’s group

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Enterprise donates $2,000 to Cypress Children’s group

The Enterprise Holdings Foundation has donated $2,000 to Cypress Children’s Advocacy Council (CCAC) to assist at-risk children in the community. The Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Enterprise Holdings, which, through its integrated global network of independent regional subsidiaries and franchises, operates the Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National Car Rental and Alamo Rent A Car brands.

“We are extremely grateful for the grant from the Enterprise Holdings Foundation. Their generosity, especially during these unprecedented circumstances, ensures that CCAC can continue helping the children who need us most,” said CCAC President Stacy Berry.
CCAC is a non-profit 501(C)(3) organization dedicated to serving children in Cypress and the surrounding communities by providing clothing, shoes, school supplies and more. For additional information, visit www.cypresschildrensadvocacycouncil.org.

LAEF Queen assists with Summer Enrichment Institute

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LAEF Queen assists with Summer Enrichment Institute

It is a tradition that LAEF’s Royals visit the Summer Enrichment Institute (SEI) each year. Instead of a Royal Visit to one of our classrooms this year, LAEF’s reigning Queen, retired superintendent Dr. Sherry Kropp, made a visit to the LAEF offices last week to help distribute packets of materials to families who are taking one of LAEF’s virtual classes.

LAEF provided a drive-thru service last week and our Queen happily stepped in to help. The families were very excited to have a Royal hand delivering materials them! “It was so much fun to see so many families,” said Kropp about her time supporting Virtual SEI class kit distribution.

LAEF’s first session of virtual SEI began on Monday, June 8 with over 20 classes running. Session 2 will begin on June 22 and run through July 2. Fun and academic enrichment class offerings are available to students in grades TK-8. Registration for Session 2 closes on June 14. To register for classes and view flyers please visit www.LAEF4kids.org/summer.

Dr. Sherry Kropp was crowned in February at LAEF’s Royal Gala and will reign until the next Royals are crowned in February 2021. Dr. Sherry Kropp was appointed by the LAEF Board due to her strong ties to LAEF and the community, and her endless support of Los Al kids. The Royal Gala benefits the LAEF STEAM initiative and the grand total raised was nearly $135,000! The funds were raised through business sponsorships, silent auction, live auction, online auction, donations and more.

LAEF is the non-profit partner of Los Alamitos Unified School District. LAEF enhances educational excellence by providing after-school and summer enrichment programs to children in grades Pre-K to 12. LAEF provides significant funding for STEAM teachers and instruction, as well as igniting new programs and providing valuable resources, to impact all students. For more information, visit www.LAEF4kids.org or call (562) 799-4700 Extension 80424 today!

LAUSD surveys parents on next school year

David N. Young
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LAUSD surveys parents on next school year

In a letter directly to parents, Superintendent Andrew Pulver has asked parents of the system’s students to comment on the one of many potential models for how school will be conducted in the fall.

“We know that there have been many stories in the news and media regarding how schools will operate this fall,” said Pulver. “For many of our families, the constant, and often conflicting stories, simply create confusion and raise questions about the future for our own students,” he added.

Pulver said the system is actively participating and working closely with both the California Department of Education and Orange County Task Force on reopening schools.

Additionally, he said, “our Educational Services Department is forming a committee with teacher representatives from every school and department to help explore what teaching and learning will look like next year.”

Pulver said LAUSD is awaiting guidance from state and local agencies, such as the California Department of Education, California Department of Public Health and Orange County Health Care Agency, all of which will be used to further develop plans for reopening schools in the fall of 2020.

Pulver asked parents to participate, informing them that “in no way,” were they “committing to anything” by doing so. The Superintendent said is was important, however, to understand how parents and guardians felt about the past ten weeks with Emergency Distance Learning.

Please take a moment to read through the three models below prior to taking the survey.  Additionally, please understand that the survey begins with feedback from our Emergency Distance Learning and moves into feedback on the current contingency planning models from the least restrictive model to what could be the most restrictive.  Each question informs us something unique about your current perspective on reopening schools.

The survey gave parents the following potential models to choose from:

  • Traditional In-Person School Model- In this model, Schools could reopen under a normal/traditional schedule and environment, with little to no restrictions and normal class size ratios.
  • Hybrid School Model (In-person & Virtual) – In this model, Schools could reopen with students attending school in-person for a portion of instruction (reduced student ratio), while participating in virtual/remote learning for a portion of instruction. There are many models in which a hybrid model could operate. For example, a half-day model, where 50% of students attend a morning session of on-campus schooling and the other 50% of students attend an afternoon session of on-campus schooling, while all students receive the remaining 50% of instruction virtually.  Another model could have students attending on-campus schooling 2-3 days a week and learning remotely the remainder of the week.
  • Virtual Learning School – In this model, Schools could remain closed for on-campus schooling and students participate in a 100% remote, virtual/remote learning program at home. Please know that a remote learning program that would be deployed this fall would be different than the Emergency Distance Learning program that was deployed when schools unexpectedly closed this past March. The 2020-2021 virtual/remote learning program would include all components of student accountability from attendance, completion of schoolwork and assessment, with the continuous progression through rigorous grade level standards.

Pulver informed the parents that it was possible that “more than one model will be implemented next year.

In addition, the system has created surveys specific to elementary grades and secondary schools. Parents were given until this past weekend to make their opinions known to the system.

 

Edgar sworn in as Homeland Security CFO

David N. Young
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Edgar sworn in as Homeland Security CFO

A former mayor of Los Alamitos has finally been sworn in as the Chief Finance Officer of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in Washington.

President Donald Trump nominated Troy D. Edgar for the post more than a year ago, but his nomination was only approved by the U.S. Senate two weeks ago. Edgar was sworn in by U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolfe a shortly thereafter.
While awaiting his Senate approval, however, Edgar had served as DHS associate deputy undersecretary for management.

As CFO, Edgar now assumes the management of a $92 billion Homeland Security budget, which he said includes the operational aduiting of several integrated agencies and programs.

Edgar said in an interview that the department has approximately 250,000 employees, most of whom are still working from home.

Though still getting accustomed to the new office, Edgar said because of COVID-19, he’s been working seven days a week and will likely continue to do so.

“Right now, it’s a bit of an operational challenge,” said Edgar, adding that his office also has audit and oversight responsibility for other government agencies.

The complexities of the various agencies in his government portfolio, said Edgar, makes decision making a huge undertaking. “I’m getting accustomed to the magnitude of the challenges,” he said.

Before entering government, Edgar operated Global Conductor, a business consulting firm that he said prepared him well for his current position.
Edgar said he has offices in the DHS complex in Washington and a smaller office near the U.S. Capitol. Most of the financial tasks are attached to Deputy Secretary Ken Cuccinelli’s office, said Edgar.

“I am very proud to be able to serve the President in this capacity,” he added.
“My background prepared me for it,” said Edgar, though he said he still makes it back often to California.

“Los Alamitos is still my home base,” said Edgar, adding that his wife Betty still teaches school.

Edgar first appeared on the President’s radar when, as mayor, Los Alamitos declared itself exempt from SB54. He then visited the White House with other Orange County officials.

Ironically, he was sworn into office the day after the city of Los Alamitos voted to surrender the anti-Sanctuary City fight, agreeing to settle a lawsuit filed by the ACLU.
Edgar said he had not kept up with the city’s actions but that he “was still proud” of the fact that Los Alamitos “stood up for our independence.”

Cypress Council splits on Shea City Center project

David N. Young
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Cypress Council splits on Shea City Center project

The city council of Cypress voted 3-2 this week to allow Shea Properties to purchase a 13.3-acre parcel on Katella Avenue to develop a mixed-use City Center project.

In addition, the council voted 3-2 to award Shea a developer refund of $1.47 million for approximately 25% of the amenities they have planned to bring to the project.
Mayor Rob Johnson, council members Jon Peat and Paulo Morales voted for both motions to allow the go-ahead, while Mayor Pro-tem Mariellen Yarc and council member Stacy Berry voted against both motions.

The project will now include 251 apartments, a 120-unit hotel, 64,000 square feet of retail business space and will be anchored by a grocery store or a theater.

Trying to assuage cries of “bait and switch,” Kevin McCook, director of Acquisitions and Development for Shea Properties, insisted that the potential of a “grocery store” has always been discussed as an alternative to a theater.

Council member Paulo Morales asked city staff to confirm that the potential of a grocery store was earlier discussed in and was in fact, included in the documents approved in November of 2019 to asllow negotiations with Shea to continue.

To be sure, however, there were expressions of support and opposition for the project during a public hearing held before the vote.

Millennials looking for “better housing solutions” and citizens like former mayor and businessman Tim Keenan, who said the City Center development will be “a great project for the city” were supportive, while others suggested ‘bait and switch’ tactics and that a pandemic was not the time to move forward.

Yarc and Berry remained unconvinced, however, that Shea’s proposal was right for the city.
Yarc told McCook the city “has already had a bad experience with your company,” and that she found it wanting to now have a grocery store seemingly take pre-eminence over a theater. “We’ve already got three of them,” said Yarc, referring to grocery stores. “I’m getting a lot of bad vibes,” she said.

Yarc said the potential of a movie theater was the “most exciting thing about the project.”
The mayor pro-tem suggested that she and others had supported the project initially because it was bringing entertainment venues to Cypress. “We have nothing,” she said.

Asked by Yarc what Shea could substitute into its place if Shea decides not to install a movie theater, Director of Development Doug Dancs said there would be “more than 100” allowable uses available under the ordinance the council was being asked to approve.
Flexibility is key to a project like this, said McCook, adding that he was aware conditions have changed since the onset of the pandemic.

McCook even suggested some residents had expressed a preference for grocery stores during a 2019 public meeting on the project.

Nevertheless, he said a movie theater was still the project’s priority.
Berry said the pandemic is exactly why the city should not be handing over its marquis parcel for development. “There are so many unknowns,” she said.

“Our world has changed quite a bit since the pandemic,” said Berry, who questioned project timing. “Is this even the time to be moving forward?

“There’s a lot of fear out there and people’s behavior may change so I’m not sure this is even the right time to go down this path with a set project,” said Berry.

McCook said, in his opinion, the timing is indeed right for project. Given a 10-year window to develop the project, McCook said it will be more than a year before construction begins. He said restaurants in his other developments are doing very well and have seemingly expressed strong demand since the economy has reopened.

“This seems like a very good timeframe to move this project forward,” said McCook, noting that it won’t be completed until 2024 at the earliest. Overall, he said, the Cypress City Center project will create 352 jobs and produce more than $44 million for the city over the next 30 years.

City Manager Peter Grant said most of the economic benefit to the city will come from transient taxes paid by guests of the proposed hotel, a Hilton Homewood Suites.
Asked about the current state of the hotel industry, McCook said this hotel will be an “infill” property, noting the business community “is already here” and developers expect demand to return by the time the property is constructed.

Berry also expressed concern about having sufficient parking for the dwellers, and since one of the parcels was being divided into two, she asked Director of Community Development Doug Dancs to confirm that it is not impossible for Shea, at some point, to add more housing. Dancs said yes, but Shea would have to come back to the council for approval.

Concerns aside, about a dozen citizens commented during the public hearing, with opinions split on the development.

Keenan said there will be “plenty of time to sort out the post COVID world.” He said the city is fortunate to be dealing with Shea Properties, saying they were a “strong company” with the staying power to make the project work.

Anne Hertz expressed support of the project, saying it will “enhance the character of Cypress.”

Brooke and Carlo Nefertiti expressed concerns about the project, saying “a shared HVAC system” was a problem in the age of pandemics. Also, they suggested many companies, such as United Healthcare, were laying people off and travel demand may shrink.
Frank and Maggie Marchese pleaded with the council to wait until citizens could address them in person (after the pandemic). Frank, who said he was a real estate professional, said the project should not be approved until all of the zoning impacts on land surrounding the project can be reconciled.

Clara Chung said she was a part of the ‘under 50’ demographic and “like a lot of people in my generation, I’m not ready to buy a home yet.” Though some choose urban life, “I prefer the pace here.”

Shaunna Hargrave said, “I commend you all. Because of COVID, she said, “these are challenging times, but life doesn’t stop.” Hargrave said she had polled about 50 of her friends about the project, and many of them were struggling with student loan debt and would prefer to rent.

The Shea Properties proposal had wide appeal to them, she said. “We’re still building careers,” said Hargrave, noting that she and her friends were seeking “better housing solutions.” Home ownership is very difficult for GenX’ers and millennials in Orange County, she added.

Hargrave said her research indicated “upward shifts” in housing created available units at the “more affordable” end of the spectrum. “We need to make decisions from objective research and data, and not from our fears because life has to go on.”

The council narrowly approved a motion outlining a vast array of zoning changes, codes and exclusions the council was granting to Shea so that the project could move forward.

The council also approved by a split vote a motion by Peat to provide Shea with a credit of $1.47 million for park fee offsets. City ordinances provide the Council with authority to provide a credit to developers from 1-50 percent of their project amenities, which he said in this case, amounts to approximately $8 million.

Those public amenities will include a public plaza, a dog park and a green belt that will be available to all citizens, not just those living in the development, said Peat.

Multi-lingual COVID-19 resources available

David N. Young
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Multi-lingual COVID-19 resources available
COVID-19 Resources
Free Testing for Essential Workers (courtesy of Orange Council Business Council) for those in our community who need assistance.
Food Resources for Families
Arbor Christian Fellowship: Free Food Distribution
  • Hours: First and Third Monday of each month. Arrive by 10:00 a.m.
  • Phone: (949) 830-7473
  • Location: 23302 El Toro Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Calvary Chapel WestGrove: Food Pantry
  • Food Distribution
  • Hours: Wednesdays 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. and Fridays 3:00 p.m. – 4:50 p.m.
  • Location: 12832 Knott Street, Garden Grove, CA 92841
Christ Cathedral: Food Bank
  • Pre-bagged food distribution: Thursday, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Location: 13280 Chapman Ave, Garden Grove, CA 92840 by front gate of the property
Cool Water Ministries: Mobile Food Pantry
  • Must be 13+ years of age.
  • Hours: Fourth Saturday of the Month 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
  • Location: 515 East Almond Avenue, Orange, CA 92866
Community Action Partnership and Power of One Foundation*
Crisis Kitchen Coalition: Meal Distribution
  • 2 complimentary meals per car
  • Hours: 8:00 – 10:00 a.m., 12:00 – 2:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m.
  • Location: Marbella Plaza: 31115 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Family Assistance Ministries: Food Bank
  • Please note new hours: Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (949) 492-8477
  • Location: 1030 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, CA 92673
Families Forward: Drive Through Food Bank
  • Drive through service including food and diapers
  • Monday – Friday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (949) 552-2727
  • Location: 8 Thomas, Irvine, CA 92618
Food for Christ at the Rock: Drive Through Food Bank
  • Hours: Drive through will be 7:00 am – 9:00 am on Saturday.
  • Phone: (714) 331-6311
  • Location: 101 East Orangethorpe Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92801
  • Small bag of nonperishables
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
  • Location: 161 South Orange Street, Orange, CA 92866
H.O.P.E: Food Pantry
  • Pick up groceries by appointment only
  • Phone: (714) 539-4357
  • Location: 11022 Acacia Pkwy #C, Garden Grove, CA 92840
Helping Hands: Food Pickup
  • Food pickup sites may vary, call for more information
  • Phone: (949) 230-7318
  • Location: Dana Point
Mariners Church: Food Pantry
  • Updated Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Phone: 949-769-8131
  • Location: 5001 Newport Coast Dr, Irvine, CA 92603
Pathways of Hope: Food Pantry
  • Food distribution and services such as rental assistance and case management
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 680-3691
  • Location: 611 South Ford Avenue, Fullerton, CA 92832
  • Fresh and nonperishable grocery items, packages contain 5 days worth of food
  • Families may receive assistance once every 30 days
  • Locations: Anaheim, Irvine South, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Rancho Capistrano, San Clemente, Santa Ana, Norco, Torrance
Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church
  • Groceries
  • Hours: Sundays 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 544-3141
  • Location: 1221 Wass Street, Tustin CA 92780
Salvation Army Orange County: Drive Through Food Distribution
  • Canned foods, produce, frozen goods
  • Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and Tuesday, Thursday 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • For residents of North and Central Orange County – Bring ID
  • May receive food once monthly, Must meet low income guidelines (TEFAP)
  • Location: 1515 W. North Street, Anaheim, CA
San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce and FOCUS Orange County: Food Distribution
  • Grocery items for those in need. Drive-in only.
  • Hours: Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. running from May 23, 2020 to June 27, 2020
  • Location: St. Margaret’s Episcopal School parking lot. 31641 La Novia Avenue, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
The Salvation Army of Southern California
  • Bring Picture ID
  • Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 832-7100
  • Location: 10200 Pioneer Road, Tustin, CA 92782
Second Harvest Food Bank Drive Through
  • Saturdays 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: Honda Center parking lot: 2695 E. Katella Ave. Enter off South Douglass Road.
Serve the People: Food Pantry
  • Distribution of groceries, diapers, and hygiene items
  • Hours: First and Third Saturdays of the month 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Registration begins at 4:30 a.m.
  • Phone: (714) 352-2911
  • Location: 1206 E. 17th Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Someone Cares Soup Kitchen: Free Meals
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. and Saturday – Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
  • Phone: (949) 548-8861
  • Location: 720 West 19th Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Southwest Community Center
  • Provides Hot Meals. Must Be Consumed off-site.
  • Hot Meal Hours: Monday-Sunday 12:00 p.m.
  • Food Pantry Hours: Monday and Wednesday 9:00 am-1:00 pm
  • Phone: (714) 547-4073
  • Location: 1601 West Second Street, Santa Ana CA 92703
South County Outreach: Appointment Only Food Pantry
  • Food distribution will be by appointment only. Any shopper coming without an appointment will be directed to call the hotline.
  • Appointments available Monday – Friday 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Phone: Pantry Hotline at 949-380-8144 ext. 207
  • Location: 7 Whatney, Suite B, Irvine, CA 92618
South Shores Church: “Feed the Need” Food Distribution
  • Hours: Sunday mornings 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Phone: (949) 234-1302
  • Location: 32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Tustin Drive Through Food Drive
  • Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Location: Families Together of Orange County Community Health Center, 621 West First St., Tustin CA, 92780
Food Resources for Seniors
Age Well Seniors Services: Greater Plates Program
  • Home-Delivery meal program for seniors. Available until June 10, 2020.
  • Multiple locations
  • Apply for the program through their website here or call 949-382-6098 to speak to someone who can help you fill out the application.
Age Well Senior Services: On the Go Food for Seniors
  • Senior Center Grab and Go Lunch
  • Can get up to 3 meals
  • Locations: Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach/Corona Del Mar, San Clemente
Alzheimer’s Orange County: Grocery Stores with Special Senior Hours
  • Home delivery of groceries for Seniors and Veterans
  • Phone: (844) 279-0105
  • Irvine Meals on Wheels provides nutritious, healthy, great tasting meals to senior residents or other individuals who cannot prepare or shop for meals themselves.
  • Delivered Monday through Friday between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (949) 724-6927
  • Location: 20 Lake Road Irvine, CA 92604
Meals on Wheels Orange County: Grab and Go Meals
  • Meals on Wheels Orange County has converted their in person meal program to a pick up program.
  • Registered online to have a family or friend pick up meals by providing the name and address of the participant.
  • Locations are available across Orange County, click here to view them
  • Phone: (714) 823-3294
The Recess Room: Free Food Friday’s
  • Seniors 65+
  • Grab-and-go meals are first come first serve while supplies last. Walk-ins only.
  • Hours: Fridays 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 377-0398
  • Location: 18380 Brookhurst Street, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
San Juan Capistrano Senior Center: Hot Meals
  • Must be a San Juan Capistrano Resident
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 11:45 a.m.
  • Phone: (949) 493-5921
  • Location: 25925 Camino del Avion, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92676
Resources for Children and Families
OC School Grab and Go Meals: Comprehensive list of all OC Schools
  • Orange County Department of Education has prepared a master list of all school locations in Orange County where families can pick up food.
  • Updated April 28, 2020
Anaheim Family YMCA: Grab and Go Meal Locations
  • Free Grab & Go Meals – Walk-up or Drive-up
  • 18 years old and younger OR 18+ who meet the CDE’s definition of mental or physical disability
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 635-9622
  • Multiple locations across Anaheim
  • Helps to find nearby CA After school and Summer Meal programs, as well as emergency meal sites.
CAP OC and OC Food Bank: Diaper Bank
  • Community Action Partnership of Orange County and OC Food Bank have partnered to provide diapers to families and children in need.
  • Locations: Anaheim, Brea, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Irvine, Orange, Placentia, and Santa Ana
  • Resources for Families with Young Children, such as Health and Mental Health, Childcare, Tips for Talking to Children about COVID-19, and more.
Tustin Community Foundation: Grab and Go Food
  • Grab and Go lunch and breakfast at no cost to children 18 and under
  • Children must be present at pick up
  • 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. weekdays
Educational Opportunities
Senior Services
Office on Aging: Seniors with any need, please call 1-800-510-2020
  • Extended Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Languages: English, Spanish, and Vietnamese
  • Provides services that promotes health and well being for seniors
  • Phone: (949) 855-8033
  • Location: 23101 Lake Center Drive, Suite 325, Lake Forest, CA 92630
  • Services for blind and visually impaired adults. While their classes and services are temporarily suspended, they are here to provide support during the “safer-at-home” mandate by phone or online.
  • Health Insurance Counseling, Concierge Care Navigators, Answer Resource Guides, Senior Protection Program, etc.
  • Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 479-0107
  • Location: 2 Executive Circle, Suite 175, Irvine, CA 92614
  • In this time of separation, Well Connected and Well Connected Español are here to provide support—to provide laughs, intellectual stimulation, inspiration, conversation and more, all via groups you can join from home, by phone or online.
  • Phone: (877) 797-7299
  • Offer free care planning service to seniors of any income, insurance, and/or health condition.
  • Help people learn about great healthcare resources, housing with assistance for low income/disabled seniors and many great programs to seniors improve their quality of life.
  • Provides mental health counseling to seniors 55+ for anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and life changes. “Feeling the Blues” is a short-term therapy program, usually 10 sessions or less, and not appropriate for those with SPMI.
  • Contact for assessment: Martha Hernandez, LCSW at (949) 715-8104 or ma*****@******iq.org
  • EISOA Program: Early Intervention Services for Older Adults
  • Offers comprehensive services to adults 60+ experiencing emotional challenges and health barriers
  • Languages: English, Spanish, Korean, Vietnamese, and Chinese
  • Phone: (714) 479-0107
  • Delivering groceries, masks, and other necessities to seniors sheltering in place, transporting seniors to medical appointments and the grocery store, and picking up and delivering prescriptions
  • Hours: Weekdays 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (949) 499-4100
  • Location: Laguna Beach
Mental Health Services
  • Working remotely during COVID-19
Girls Scouts of Orange County: Girls Scouts at Home
  • Online resource to serve all K-12 girls at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The resources include access to Girl Scouts of the USA’s new online platform, featuring free, self-guided activities for K-12 girls and local activities from Girl Scouts of Orange County.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
  • COVID-19 Guide, Nami Mentor Program
  • OC Warmline provides emotional support and Orange County resources at no cost.
  • Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 a.m. and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m.
  • Phone: (714) 991-6412
  • Tools and information on anxiety; resources for immediate response; how-to articles; webinars and workshops; articles specifically for parents, caregivers, older adults, domestic violence survivors, LGBTQ+ individuals, and veterans.
  • Provides support both by phone and online chat
  • Services: mental health, alcohol and drug inpatient and outpatient, crisis programs, prevention and early intervention services
  • Phone: (855) 625-4657
  • Resources for students, young professionals and parents
  • Tips to Stay Mentally Well while Working from Home
  • On demand help with reducing stress and anxiety.
Veterans Services
Goodwill of Orange County: Tierney Center for Veteran Services
  • Providing comprehensive support services for veterans and their families, including but not limited to financial assistance, employment assistance, housing, behavioral health resource referrals, resume building and more. Services are provided by email, phone, text and ZOOM.
  • Veteran Navigators will work with you and your family to meet your needs, connect you to resources, and ensure you are supported during this challenging time — and always.
  • Phone: (855) 998-3837
  • Free readjustment counseling services for combat veterans, Telehealth visits only
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Phone: Regular Hours (714) 776-0161. After Hours (877) 927-8387
  • Services: counseling, employment referral, community outreach and education, referral of other VA services
  • Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Phone: Regular Hours (949) 348-6700. After Hours (877) 927-8387
  • Location: 26431 Crown Valley Parkway, Suite 100, Mission Viejo, CA 92691
  • Phone and Telehealth counseling services for veterans and their families
  • Serves all military and family members, including active, non-active, reserve, guard, or veteran, from any branch of the military to address their challenges in a timely, competent, and supportive manner.
  • Contact: (949) 505-5015 ext. 1 or sa***@***************rt.org
  • Locations: Laguna Hills and Long Beach
  • Services: Health and Wellness, Retirement Planning, Financial Planning, and PTSD and Trauma programs
  • Phone: Toll-Free (844) 200-0012
Working Wardrobes: VetNet Program
  • The VetNet Program supports the men, women and families of Military Veterans and transitioning Service Members through a variety of services and programs.
  • Services Offered include: Veteran Peer Navigation, Job Training, Career Readiness, Job Placement, and Professional Wardrobing Services
  • Phone: (714) 210-2460
Childcare for First Responders and Essential Workers
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 838-5223 or (909) 542-5089
  • Location: 580 W. 6th St. Tustin, CA 92780
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 531-2582
  • Locations: Huntington Beach and Fountain Valley
  • Child Care Referral Database
  • The California Department of Education has changed the eligibility requirements for child care assistance making it possible for essential workers to apply for and receive help paying for child care. See if your family is eligible here.
  • Healthcare workers in need of childcare (infant-5th Grade)
  • Fee-based childcare for essential services providers. Financial assistance may be available.
  • Hours: 6:45 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Multiple Locations
Pet Food Services
  • Pet food available at Bread of Life Pantry
  • Hours: Thursday’s and Friday’s from 3:00 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 897-8972
  • Location: 12832 Knott St., Garden Grove, 92841
  • Hours: Open on the first Saturday of the month from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 282-3097
  • Location: 13280 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove, CA 92840
  • Pet food available through Paws for Peace pet food pantry. Open most Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
  • Phone: (714) 535-1675
  • Location: 827 S Walnut St, Anaheim, CA 92802
  • Provides helping hand to families with pets who are experiencing financial strain
  • Hours: Second Saturday of every month starting June 13 from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  • Location: OC Animal Care – 1630 Victory Road, Tustin, CA 92782
  • Hours: Wednesday nights at 5:30 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 451-6198
  • Location: 400 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, 92701
  • Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Food Pantry
  • Phone: (714) 507-2459
  • Location: 7855 Katella Ave., Stanton, CA 90680
  • Hours: First and third Wednesday’s of the month 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 282-3097
  • Location: Shepard of the Hills United Methodist Church – 30605 Avenida de las Flores, Rancho Santa Margarita, 92688
Additional Resources
  • Crime Survivors is to provide hope and healing to victims and survivors of crime through advocacy and the support of resources, information, and empowerment from the critical time after a crime occurs through the challenges and successes of surviving and thriving.
  • Provides food, hygiene items, clothing, support group, case management, wrap around services, service provider roundtables, and more.
  • Phone: (844) 853-HOPE or (949) 872-7895
  • As of April 20, 2020, the Orange County Clerk-Recorder Department was able to resume marriage services at Honda Center in Anaheim. Staff is providing services from inside booths to ensure that a protective barrier exists between them and the couples.
  • By Appointment Only
  • This program is available to eligible Westminster residents financially impacted by COVID-19.
  • For more information and eligibility requirements, click for English, Spanish, or Vietnamese.
  • Applications may only be submitted between June 2 and June 16, 2020.
Giving Back – Donations Needed:
  • Essential Items needed: Toilet paper, Hand sanitizers, Disinfectant items (wipes, gloves, cleaners, sponges, empty spray bottles, buckets), Paper Towels, Anti-bacterial Soap, Non-perishable food, Trash bags, Toothbrushes, Children books and games, Thermometers, Deodorant, Toothpaste, Sanitary napkins.
  • Food donations needed
  • Hours: Monday and Wednesday 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Phone: (714) 406-3049
  • Location: 3152 E La Palma Suite D, Anaheim, CA 92806
  • Pay it forward by donating a Harvest Box to community members in need. The Ecology Center will donate these boxes to the elderly, immunocompromised, healthcare workers, and low-income families.
  • Board At Home: Your donation is rewarded with the ultimate stay-at-home wine and cheese survival kit
  • Three options to support: donate dollars, donate diapers or collect diapers
Influence Church
  • Items Needed: non-perishable items, canned goods, hygiene products, and grocery gift cards
  • Drop-off Hours: Sundays 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Location: 8163 E Kaiser Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92808
Mariners Church
  • Click Here for a complete list of items needed.
  • Drop-off Hours: Every day 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Location: Chapel Lot – 5001 Newport Coast Drive, Irvine, CA 92603
Saddleback Church
  • Items Needed: Cereal, Peanut Butter, Spaghetti Sauce, Soup or non-perishable food
  • Drop-off Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Location: PEACE Center on Saddleback Lake Forest campus – 1 Purpose Drive, Lake Forest, CA 92630 or Food Pantry bins at a campus
Volunteer Opportunities
If you are looking for ways to give back to the community, the organizations below are looking for volunteers.
Please note that dates and times are subject to change.

Los Al seniors enjoy the parade of a lifetime

David N. Young
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Los Al seniors enjoy the parade of a lifetime

Los Al TV will air a 30-min video of last Wednesday’s 2020 Seniors on Parade throughout the upcoming week.

The parade was the result of the Rossmoor Homeowners Association channeling the energy of local parents wanting to do something to celebrate the hard work of this year’s graduates who unfortunately had to miss many of the normal memories of your senior year in high school.

The video was made from footage includes six hours of video shot by Los Al TV crews and includes short interviews with students, teachers and community members, as well as footage and photos provided by community members.

The parade for the 2020 graduates began at the Shops of Rossmoor and immediately went through a cordon of honor of cheering teachers and staff from Los Alamitos High School, then they continued to pass by each of the community’s four elementary schools where former teachers and staff also celebrated the new grads. Teachers from Oak and McGaugh schools were located at Rush Park and teachers and staff from McAuliffe and LAE were at Rossmoor Park.

Over 550 cars participated in the event – and unofficially at least 2,000 persons cheered them on over the entire parade route.
The video will air at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. for most days, but check losaltv.com for schedule updates.

The parade was organized by the Rossmoor Homeowners Association with Jo Shade, Art Remnet and Marian Last handling most of the work.
The Los Al TV video was produced and edited by Larry Strawther with camera work handled by Sam Barrozo, Conner Brown, and John Underwood.

Photos by Helen Harlon

Displaced military retirees get JFTB shelter from the storm assistance

Richard Lalor
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Displaced military retirees get JFTB shelter from the storm assistance

As the COVID-19 pandemic challenges communities throughout Southern California, Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, (JFTB) and the California National Guard have stepped up to offer shelter from the storm to a number of military retirees and their families who recently found themselves homeless when they were instructed to leave local recreational vehicle parks on short notice.

An unintended consequence of a well-intentioned policy to limit the spread of COVID-19 left some semi-permanent RV-ers with short orders to leave local parks, though the question had not been contemplated as to where they were supposed to go.

“My parents are both Air Force veterans and watched many of their elderly veteran friends who were in tears wondering where they could go,” said Justine Cromer, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, whose father and mother – both with ongoing health challenges – were affected. “My father receives daily health care and my mother is recovering from surgery, but they were only given one week’s notice to leave, even though their rent was fully paid.”

Cromer reached out to California State Guard Brig. Gen. Denton Knapp, who also serves as the Director of the Tierney Center for Veterans Services, for Goodwill Orange County. She then engaged the office of Rep. Harley Rouda, of California’s 48th District, for assistance.
“I had first met Lt. Col. Cromer at the Tierney Center when she was a transitioning veteran looking to get involved with the community,” said Knapp. “She reached out for help with her parents’ situation, but we soon realized that there is a large population of older, retired veterans who make RV parks their year-round homes.”

Riding to the rescue, Knapp got in touch with U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Mike Leeney, JFTB installation commander. The pair enlisted the assistance of Andy Law, the base’s non-appropriated funds general manager, and the situation was soon resolved. JFTB provided space for Cromer’s parents and two other families, and also facilitated

Woman’s Club helps local seniors during lockdown

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Woman’s Club helps local seniors during lockdown

The Woman’s Club of Cypress is leading a project to help local, homebound senior citizens as well as the elderly in Cypress who are unable to leave their homes due to the stay-at-home order.

The club membership is more than 80 Cypress residents, mostly senior citizens, who are self-isolating, but working hard from home to help others in the community who need assistance.

Currently, there are 43 Cypress residents receiving daily or weekly meal deliveries who need help from Cypress residents and businesses. These 43 people are unable to leave their homes and are dependent on the generosity of volunteers and donors for their survival.

Club members are assembling Kindness Bags to be delivered monthly through the Meals on Wheels program. Members have donated packages of toilet paper, soaps, shampoos, and other toiletries, with the items wrapped in a trash bag that the recipient can reuse in their home.

Currently, club members are collecting packages of individually-wrapped paper towels, sanitizer, sanitizer wipes, toiletries, and more. Costco in Cypress donated toilet paper, and Golden Outlook Insurance Services donated small sanitizers, fans, adult coloring books, and stress balls to add to club member donations.

The goal is to pack 50 bags each month, which includes a few extra bags for new people who may be added to the delivery list in the near future. Companies and individuals who would like to assist with this project may contact club President, Carole Shaw, through the club’s email: WC*********@***il.com.

Application Period Begins for Cypress’ Small Businesses Relief Program

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Application Period Begins for Cypress’ Small Businesses Relief Program

The City of Cypress is now accepting applications for the Small Business Relief Program.   The program offers immediate financial assistance to small businesses located in Cypress to aid in maintaining their business and workforce.  Approximately 116 one-time small business grants will be awarded to eligible businesses up to a maximum of $10,000.

Applications are available at www.cypressca.org/smallbusinessrelief and must be submitted to sm*****************@*******ca.org by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 8, 2020.

The relief funds may be used to assist business owners with payroll, capital and equipment expenses, and operational costs (including utility, loan, lease, and mortgage payments). The program’s goal is to get assistance to small businesses quickly to support their recovery effort.

For more information, or to download an application, please visit www.cypressca.org/smallbusinessrelief or call (714) 229-3393.

 

Protests erupt in Los Al, planned for Cypress

David N. Young
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Protests erupt in Los Al, planned for Cypress

Carrying signs and placards with messages such as “I can’t breathe,” “Black Lives Matter” among others, about 100 students and a smattering of adults staged a peaceful protest Tuesday in front of Los Alamitos High School.

The protest was held on public right-of-way in front of the school and not on school property. Supt. Andrew Pulver said the school district was not associated with the protest. Social media posts the night before noted that permits for a protest had yet to be issued and students at the protest said they organized the event.

As protesters chanted “No justice, no peace,” passing cars and trucks honked, some wildly, to support the student protesters as students roared their approval.

Los Al police passed regularly through the intersection of Los Alamitos Boulevard and Cerritos Ave. but did not intervene. The Los Alamitos Police Department had issued a warning in advance of the rally noting they would not tolerate any acts of violence, looting or vandalism.

Social media posts during the protest urged participants to remain peaceful and to take precautions about spreading the coronavirus. Most every protester wore a face mask.

Los Al Police has confirmed there will be another protest today, Wednesday, starting at 2:30 p.m. at the high school.

Police say they are expecting another peaceful march but will be keeping a close eye on the event and have a plan to keep the city safe.

There is another protest march scheduled for Cypress on Friday, and although details continue to change, protest organizers are telling participants to assemble at Walker and Katella for a planned peaceful march to Cypress city hall.

We will keep the community informed on all relevant developments. Event News photo

Spectators to be allowed on base for July 4 fireworks

David N. Young
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Spectators to be allowed on base for July 4 fireworks

In a special meeting Monday, the Los Alamitos city council was informed that an agreement has been reached with the Joint Forces Training Base to allow residents and spectators onto the base to watch this year’s Independence Day fireworks extravaganza.

Moreover, while on the base to watch the show, residents will apparently be allowed to leave their cars to enjoy the show, although details are still being worked out, said city manager Chet Simmons.

Simmons said he is coordinating with city officials Ron and Emeline Noda, whom are spearheading the organization of the show, and he thanked Council member Dean Grose for intervening with base commander Michael Leeney and even Major General Laura Yeager, to work out the compromise.

In addition to his duties on the council, Grose serves as the coordinator for the Regional Military Affairs Committee based on the base.

“There are still a number of unknowns,” Simmons acknowledged. While negotiations are still underway, he said it appears as though vehicles will have to be parked six to eight feet apart, and participants who leave their vehicles to watch the fireworks show will have to wear face masks.

While military officials see the fireworks show “as a benefit to the community,” he added, “final guidelines are still being worked out.”

Council member Shelley Hasselbrink, who has promoted the fireworks show as a chance to demonstrate to residents that the city was trying to return some sense of normalcy to their lives, said it was a “big win.”

Hasselbrink noted that since expressing support for having the fireworks show this July 4, she has been inundated with comments from residents who are thankful to have something, even before it was known residents would be allowed onto the base to watch.
Grose said there will be no food trucks or other amenities to create a “festival atmosphere,” but he said the scaled down show would go on.

Because JFTB is currently being used to deploy National Guardsmen to various cities during the ongoing protests, military officials did reserve the right to notify the city in advance if for any reason, conditions would not permit the show.

Nevertheless, Noda said he has negotiated an escape clause with the fireworks vendor that, if cancelled 15 days before the event, would trigger a mechanism that would allow the company to store the fireworks and use them next year at no additional charge.

But as of Monday, the annual Los Alamitos July 4 fireworks show will be held with approved guidelines.

Los Alamitos officials express frustration at new state laws

David N. Young
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Los Alamitos officials express frustration at new state laws

Members of the Los Al city council were so frustrated about newly minted state laws that have wrestled control away from them that, in one case, they refused to vote on changing a local ordinance.

At the most recent council meeting, city officials expressed outrage to learn newly passed laws by the state assembly gives the city absolutely no control of whom establishes day care facilities and another that virtually decimated all of the work city officials had previously done on accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

City attorney Michael Daudt and city manager Chet Simmons explained that changes were necessary to bring the city’s local ordinances into compliance with new state laws.

They said new state statutes regarding the establishment of large daycare centers give local governments literally no control of where such daycare centers are operated. Such facilities do not need licenses nor permits from local authorities.

While the council debated any number of potential local ‘fixes’ in the way of local modifications, the city attorney basically shut them down. Not even parking on city streets can be regulated for largedaycare centers under the new laws.

Local ordinances “would only be permissible if we impose the exact same limitations for every other residential use in that particular zoning district,” said Daudt, adding that current requirements for playground equipment and parking are “no longer enforceable.”
Council member Dean Grose said between daycare and sober living home visitors, “they will block your driveway and there is no penalty involved.”

Council members worried about several related issues, including parking in an already overcrowded city in terms of parking.

One city resident spoke at the public hearing suggesting the new laws raise a “safety issue” and would create a “public inconvenience” and parking bottlenecks for the families forced to coexist near these large daycare centers.

Council member Shelley Hasselbrink suggested the council not even vote on the issue until city staffers study it in more detail to determine what, if anything, can be done to strengthen the city’s position. The council agreed.

When the council began discussing another local ordinance modification because of new state laws, the emotion evolved into disgust.

Daudt said another local ordinance to accommodate needed to be changed to accommodate new state laws regarding so-called Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s).
These are new living spaces added to existing homes and multi-family housing units.

Basically, the state eliminated the need for the homeowner to live in the units and significantly expanded the overall size of the potential units. Again, the council was frustrated over the loss of local control.

“This disgusts me,” said Mayor Richard D. Murphy. “It really does. To think of the amount of time we’ve put into discussing this subject (in recent years) and now it is just whitewashed away with a stroke of the pen.”

The proximity of public transportation facilities in Los Al further reduce their control, said Murphy, adding “this has the potential to make every house a triplex.” He said instead of loosening regulations to build housing, “we get something like this.”

“What if you saved your whole life to buy a single-family home,” said Murphy, “which is still the gold standard in this country, and here it is taken away.”

Murphy wondered “what’s this going to (make the city) look like in a couple of years?”
Despite the city’s loss of control, Murphy thanked key officials and the Planning Commission for their work.

“Why do we have a local government,” complained Mayor Pro-tem Mark Chirco? “They (Sacramento) are telling us what to do regardless of what it does to the character of our city.”

Legislators, said Chirco, are thinking of bigger cities and “are not thinking of us. It is really frustrating.”

“Elections have consequences,” said Grose.

Because owners are no longer required to own the site of the ADU’s, Hasselbrink said there needs to be “some tie to the community,” as she openly worried about short term rentals.

Daudt said the city’s revised ordinance would at least require that ADU’s be rented for not less than 30 days. “Well that’s something,” said a frustrated Hasselbrink, who “reluctantly” made a motion to adopt the local ordinance to accompany the state changes.
It passed 5-0.

According to Simmons, “every jurisdiction is dealing with this issue.” He said communities are looking at several “neighborhood preservation programs.” The goal now, he said, was preventing ADU’s from becoming “bad actors in the neighborhood.”

Nonprofits seek funding from city of Cypress

David N. Young
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Nonprofits seek funding from city of Cypress

The city of Cypress is wrestling with how best to help the struggling its nonprofit sector, apparently hard hit by the Coronavirus lockdown.

The Cypress council voted May 11 to approve a process to allow nonprofits to submit requests for direct financial assistance from the city.

Council members Stacy Berry and Paulo Morales, along with city manager Peter Grant were named earlier to an ad-hoc committee to study the matter and announced their findings this past week.

Grant said the city is suggesting they “receive and file” requests for direct support from the nonprofits and second, to refer the requests to next year’s nonprofit cycle, giving the city time to understand its own financial position and time for the nonprofits to seek aid from other relief sources.

Morales said the city provided $500,000 to nonprofits in the previous budget cycle, which he said includes $485,000 in indirect support and $15,000 in direct cash support.
In the wake of COVID, said Morales, nonprofits are initially asking for “18 times more,” according to the needs assessment they conducted.

He pointed out that their task was to perform a “needs assessment only,” not a public announcement for nonprofits to apply for funding.

Nevertheless, Morales suggested there are still ethical and other questions to be worked out before awarding nonprofits with significant taxpayer funding from the city. “Where would the money go,” he asked, how would it be used, what would the public think, including whether or not the public “would find it acceptable,” said Morales.

“Historically, the city has not received many directcash requests,” from nonprofits, said Morales. He emphasized the city was “committed to good government.”

“Every public dollar is the community’s money,” he said. Morales said the city received seven requests from funding, some of which averaged between $250 -$300,000.

“We are fortunate to have such an active and generous nonprofit sector,” said Berry. She said there are, howevet, “still too many unknowns” about the city’s finances to make any decisions, and that “we want to make sure that anything that is done with COVID-19 is equitable.” Berry said the subcommittee met five times in the past month.

Grant said the nonprofit funding process is set to begin in October.

Council member Jon Peat made a statement confirming that he was on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Anaheim Cypress, (and from whom the council had received a request for funding), but said his position was voluntary and for which he received “no compensation or benefit from the club, in any form.”

He asked the council to shift their mindset from “giving our money to organizations” to understanding any assistance as contributions to partners using tax dollars to deliver services to residents. “We’ve got $154 million in the bank,” said Peat, urging his colleagues to consider spending “a small amount of our reserves. It would be a good use of money,” he suggested.

When Mayor Rob Johnson made a motion to approve the subcommittee’s original two-part motion, Peat requested, and received an amendment seeking to speed up developing an application and criteria.

The council passed the motion 5-0.

Anne Hertz, President of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Anaheim-Cypress, expressed dissatisfaction at the expressed pace of the process. Speaking during the public comment period, she said “delaying decisions can have negative consequences.”

“Now is the time for honest action,” she said, and “with all due respect, I am deeply, deeply disappointed at your lack of action. Rather than help the seven nonprofits who have asked for assistance, you are creating another layer of bureaucracy,” she said.

“Rather than leading with empathy and taking decisive action on the requests from those serving on the frontline,” said Hertz, “you’re asking us to submit another proposal.”
In addition to Boys and Girls Club of Greater Anaheim Cypress, others interested in receiving aid are the Woman’s Club of Cypress, Cypress Arts League, Cypress Chamber of Commerce, Cypress Children’s Advocacy Council, HOPE (Helping Other People Ever day) and Soroptimists of Cypress

Cypress high school senior named Presidential Scholar

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Cypress high school senior named Presidential Scholar

A Cypress high school senior was named as a “Presidential Scholar” this week by the U.S. Department of Education.

U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos today announced the 56th class of U.S. Presidential Scholars, recognizing high school seniors for their accomplishments in academics, the arts and career and technical education fields.

“It is my privilege to congratulate the Presidential Scholars Class of 2020 on their outstanding academic achievement, community service, and leadership,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos.

“These exemplary young people have excelled inside the classroom and out. And, while they are facing unprecedented challenges as they graduate from high school into a world that looks much different than it did just a few months ago, their determination, resilience, and commitment to excellence will serve them well as they pursue their next steps.”
Jessica Costescu, a Cypress High School senior, was one of only ten scholars named in California named to the Presidential list.

Candidates were selected from nearly 3.6 million students expected to graduate from U.S. high schools in the year 2020.

According to a Facebook post, Jessica is the Cypress Ambassador to the Board of Trustees, she attended (as one of 6 students worldwide) the FBI Youth Leadership Academy in 2018 and the DEA Leadership Academy in 2019. She is a Cypress Police Explorer as well.
Created in 1964, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program has honored over 7,600 of the nation’s top-performing students. The program was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary and performing arts.

In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.

The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects scholars annually based on their academic success, artistic and technical excellence, essays, school evaluations and transcripts, as well as evidence of community service, leadership and demonstrated commitment to high ideals.

“I have been allowed to academically excel because of the amazing institution that Cypress High School is. All of your work, that of the administrators, and the faculty makes me love coming to school every day and this has held true ever since I enrolled as a freshman,” said Jessica to her principal, Dr. Jodie Wales on the Facebook post.

As directed by Presidential Executive Order, the 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars are comprised of one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and U.S. families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at-large, 20 Scholars in the Arts and 20 Scholars in Career and Technical Education.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of our nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments in many areas: academic success, leadership, and service to school and community.

Lowenthal attempts to secure Gold Medal for Billie Jean King

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Lowenthal attempts to secure Gold Medal for Billie Jean King

Congressman Alan Lowenthal (CA-47) today joined with 17 of his House colleagues to introduce the Billie Jean King Gold Medal Act to award King the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of her extensive accomplishments and contributions to athletics, women’s equality, the LGBT community, and American culture.

“Billie Jean King, through her passion, her leadership, and her vision, redefined the role of women in both sports and American culture,” Congressman Lowenthal said. “The word icon is simply not enough to describe the tremendous impact she has had on not only tennis and the United States, but on the entire world. She is a pioneer in athletics, a trailblazer in the fight for equality, a role model for women and the LGBT community, and an inspiration to every American. She has not only earned this honor–she deserves it for the ground she has broken and the paths that she has set.”

A native of Long Beach, CA, King won 39 major singles, doubles, and mixed-doubles tennis championships during her more than 30-year tennis career, including a record 20 at Wimbledon. She is also the founder of the Women’s Tennis Association and the non-profit Billie Jean King Leadership Initiative. The U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) National Tennis Center in Flushing, NY, home of the U.S. Open Grand Slam tennis tournament, is named in her honor, as is the Billie Jean King Tennis Center in Long Beach. Last year, the new main library in downtown Long Beach was also named in honor of King.

Southland Credit serves frontline healthcare workers

David N. Young
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Southland Credit serves frontline healthcare workers

During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare workers are serving on the frontlines of the virus, putting their own health at risk to protect the health of so many others.

Many of these first responders are Southland Credit Union Members who work at hospitals and medical centers in the communities surrounding the credit union’s branch locations in Orange County and Los Angeles County.

To date, Southland Credit Union has donated over $18,000, and more than 2,400 meals to first responders, with plans to expand the program to more first responder organizations.
Southland’s meal donation program has supported the following hospitals and medical centers:
• 600 Subway meal boxes to the employees at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Carson, CA
• 300 Subway meal boxes and 400 Chick-fil-A meals to the employees at Los Alamitos Medical Center in Los Alamitos, CA
• 50 lunches served to the employees at MemorialCare Medical Group in Long Beach, CA
• $500, equaling 50 meals to the employees at the VA Hospital in Long Beach, CA
• 300 meal gift cards for the employees at Torrance Medical Center in Torrance, CA
• 450 Subway meals to the employees at Lakewood Regional Medical Center in Lakewood, CA
• 10 Jimmy John’s meals to the security department at California State University, Long Beach
• 200 cafe meals to Providence St. John’s Medical Center in Santa Monica, CA
• 65 Jimmy John’s sandwiches to MemorialCare Urgent Care in Long Beach, CA
• 15 Raising Cane’s meals to the Los Alamitos Police Department
• 77 Raising Cane’s meals to the Carson Sheriff’s Department
• 300 Raising Cane’s meals to St. Mary Medical Center in Long Beach

Southland Credit on Los Al Boulevard

“Southland has a long history of giving back to our Members and communities,” said Tom Lent, President and CEO of Southland Credit Union. “In times like these, it is important for us to uphold the credit union philosophy of people helping people. We are grateful for the tireless work by our first responders to ensure our health and safety.”

Southland continues to publish updates on its efforts for first responders on SouthlandCU.org. The Credit Union has also developed a comprehensive plan to assist Members in need during this crisis.

Southland Credit Union is a $900 million credit union that serves over 60,000 Members in Orange County and Los Angeles County. Branch locations are in Los Alamitos, Downey, Long Beach, Santa Monica, Downtown Los Angeles (in the Los Angeles Federal Building) and Carson.

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

Pot is for sale, but not pots and pans

For Event-News Enterprise
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Pot is for sale, but not pots and pans

Dear Editor,

Seal Beach’s breezy Electric Avenue Park, quaint Main Street restaurants, picturesque shops and iconic pier entices people to visit the city. As a bonus, visitors might learn things during their stay. For instance, last week during an afternoon visit I discovered that automobiles could spread and be infected by the COVID-19 virus!

Why else would the recently reopened Seal Beach parking lot have every other space closed off? Could it be auto social distancing?

Bureaucrats who made this ridiculous decision probably never considered that if two cars simultaneously pulled into side-by-side parking spots, one car would wait while the other emptied. This and other ludicrous lockdown regulations are why many freedom rallies continue to be held up and down the state including the Saturday, May 23 rally in Los Alamitos. Some absurd lockdown regulation examples include:
• Assuming you could be infected with the virus at 5’10” but not at 5’12” (6 feet).
• Dogs can get their hair cut and teeth cleaned, but their human owners can’t.
• People can sit spaced apart on the grass that overlooks the beach, but they can’t sit spaced apart on the beach.
• Friends could gather in a supermarket but not in a church.
• Clothes were sold at big-box stores while clothing stores were closed.
• Homeless are given free housing, alcohol and drugs and illegal aliens given stimulus money, while others are struggling to pay their rent/mortgage.
• Felons were let out of prison while law-abiding citizens are arrested for trying to earn a living.
• Women were walking into Planned Parenthood to abort their baby, but stores that sold baby furniture were closed.
• Pot is for sale but not pots and pans.

On May 23, while waving flags and holding signs on all four corners at the Katella/Los Alamitos intersection, patriotic Americans demanded that Gov. Newsom stop slow walking the state’s reopening. Most drivers going through the intersection gave thumbs up while enthusiastically honking their cars’ horn.
Red states are reopening and will enjoy an economic renaissance while blue states will continue singing the economic blues.
Sincerely,
Robin Itzler
Cypress, California

Heartfelt thanks from Los Al Unified School Board

David N. Young
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Heartfelt thanks from Los Al Unified School Board

Dear Los Alamitos Unified School District Communities,
May is the month that traditionally reminds us that we need to take a little time to appreciate what we have and to thank those who have helped us. We have just celebrated Mothers’ Day, Teacher Appreciation Day, School Employees Week and the Week of the Administrators.

The Board of the Los Alamitos Unified School District wants to acknowledge all the incredible work that has been done by staff during this Covid-19 sheltering. To say that was a Herculean feat is an understatement. It was the work of hundreds of people saying they wanted to do what is best for our students no matter the situation and putting in countless hours to make it happen. We are so proud of staff for their commitment to our children! There is really no way for us to express our gratitude and appreciation.

As a Board, we witness the constant support and the incredibly generous sharing of resources by individuals, families, community organizations, city governments and businesses. Our community never stops caring about and investing in our school district and our students. And for that, we are all tremendously grateful. None of us could imagine living in a better community or raising children in a better place. The theme Dr. Pulver chose for this school year is Better Together. We are sure he didn’t know how appropriate and meaningful that saying would become! But we are all Better Together and we want to let our communities know how thankful we are of their support.

To everyone, we thank you for your support. The thanks comes from our hearts.
Sincerely,
Meg Cutuli, President Board of Education
Marlys Davidson, Vice-President Board of Education
Dave Boyer, Member Board of Education
Diana Hill, Member Board of Education
Karen Russell, Member Board of Education

 

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