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Here’s What You Need to Know About Voting in the March 3rd Primary Election

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Here’s What You Need to Know About Voting in the March 3rd Primary Election

By Jeannette Andruss

California’s Presidential Primary Election is March 3 but you don’t have to wait until then to vote. Every registered voter in Orange County should have received a vote-by-mail ballot by now and you have different options for casting that ballot. It’s all part of the new Vote Center Election that the Orange County Registrar of Voters is implementing. The goal is to give voters more flexibility in how they cast their ballot.

How Can I Cast My Ballot?

There are numerous ways to vote and in-person voting will be available for 11 days. You can start voting in person at some of the 188 Vote Centers in the county starting on Feb. 22. You can also drop off your completed ballot at a Vote Center. Another option is to send your completed vote-by-mail ballot in the mail. Just make sure it is postmarked by Election Day, March 3. Or you can drop off your ballot at one of the 110 ballot drop boxes in the county that are now open.

Here is a list of nearby Vote Centers:

  • Seal Beach Fire Station #48, 3131 N. Gate Road, Seal Beach, Open Feb. 22 – March 3

–     Los Alamitos Unified School District, 10293 Bloomfield Street, Los Alamitos, Open Feb. 29-March 3

–     Mary Wilson Library & Senior Center, 707 Electric Avenue, Seal Beach, Open Feb. 29-March 3 (Location also has a ballot Drop Box)

The Registrar is also planning a one-day pop-up voting center in Leisure World. Visit OCVote.com for the latest information and details on Vote Center hours.

What’s on the Ballot?

The biggest contest on the ballot is for the race for President.  Be aware some candidates for the Democratic presidential nomination who have dropped out of the race still appear on the ballot. Visit VotersEdge.org to see who’s still running. California’s primary election is earlier than in past years and is being held on Super Tuesday when more than a dozen states hold their primaries. Big wins on Super Tuesday could lock up the nomination for a candidate.

No Party Preference Voters

No Party Preference voters are the second biggest voting bloc in the state after Democrats. But NPP voters who want to vote for President need to request a partisan ballot. The Democratic Party, American Independent Party and Libertarian Party allow NPP voters to request their presidential primary ballot. Republicans do not allow NPP voters to vote in their primary. The deadline for NPP voters to request a partisan ballot is Feb. 25. More information is at OCVote.com/npp.

Proposition 13 – Bond Measure

Proposition 13 on the March 3 ballot is asking California voters to approve $15 billion in state general obligation bonds. The bonds would finance construction and modernization of public education facilities. Supporters say it will help pay for fire and earthquake upgrades at schools and remove toxic mold and asbestos from classrooms. Opponents say borrowing money to pay for school repairs when there is a budget surplus is an example of government waste.

Measure A

A “yes” vote on Measure A would amend the Charter of Orange County to require approval by two-thirds of the Board of Supervisors before a proposal to raise, impose or extend a tax is presented to voters. This would exclude taxes under the Mello-Roos Act, a law that allows for financing of some public improvements. There was no argument against Measure A published in the voter information guide.

Congress & State Offices

Congressional seats, State Assembly seats and State Senate seats are also on the ballot this primary. The top two vote-getters, regardless of party, will advance to the November General Election.  In our area, 72nd Assembly District incumbent Tyler Diep is facing a challenge from fellow Republican and former State Senator Janet Nguyen. Democrat Diedre Nguyen, a Garden Grove city councilmember, is another candidate. Civil rights advocate and Los Alamitos High School graduate Bijan Mohseni is the other Democrat running.

In the race for Congress, freshman Democrat Harley Rouda is running for reelection for the House of Representatives 48th District seat that covers all of Seal Beach. Rouda beat longtime incumbent Republican Dana Rohrabacher in 2018. Current Orange County Supervisor Michelle Steel is one of four Republicans vying to unseat Rouda.

 

Registration open for 2020 La Palma Citizen Academy

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Registration open for 2020 La Palma Citizen Academy

The City of La Palma is excited to announce registration is now open for the 2020 La Palma Citizen Academy.

The La Palma Citizen Academy is a free five-week course aimed at demystifying and introducing residents to local government. Each workshop focuses on specific aspects of local government functions, including administration, finance, public safety, community development, community services, and public works. Additionally, the Citizen Academy introduces participants to various civic engagement opportunities, such as serving on a City committee of even City Council.

The Citizen Academy takes place on five Monday evenings beginning on March 30 and ending April 27. Sessions will start at 7:00 p.m. and end by 9:00 p.m. Space is limited, so interested residents should apply as soon as possible.

Additional information and registration can be found at: www.cityoflapalma.org/academy.

 

St. Irenaeus Knights preparing to serve fish dinners for Lent

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St. Irenaeus Knights preparing to serve fish dinners for Lent

The St.Irenaeus Knights of Columbus Cypress Council is hosting its annual Fish Fry dinners during the Lenten Season on six consecutive Fridays, beginning February 28 and continuing through March 4 at 5 p.m. in the St. Irenaeus Parish Hall. The cost of a full dinner of fish, fries, and cole slaw is just $8.

Everyone is invited to enjoy a delicious dinner with someone else doing the cooking.

Proceeds benefit numerous local agencies serving the needy in Cypress and surrounding communities.  Contact Grand Knight Rolly Arenz at (562) 708-0258

Courtesy photo

‘Love Songs’ reveals announcement of Seal Beach Symphony

David N. Young
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‘Love Songs’ reveals announcement of Seal Beach Symphony

It many ways, the evening was a symphony in the sounds of life.

A large crowd jammed into the makeshift ballroom at Old Ranch Country Club Saturday to hear the first notes of what has become the Seal Beach Symphony, as they accompanied some of the world’s top vocalists and musicians.

And, for the first time, the annual Valentine’s event entitled “Love Songs” was held in Seal Beach. For producer Chad Berlinghieri, after seven years, the music finally came home.

“We’ve done all these events throughout southern California,” said the Cathedral Productions artistic director, “but now that we’ve become the Seal Beach Symphony, we want to focus our efforts on our hometown.”

In between three courses served by Chef Joseph Flores, the appreciative hometown crowd was dazzled by voices, violins and virtuosos. They were accompanied by the Seal Beach Symphony String Ensemble under the direction of Downey composer Lars Clutterham.

Wait a minute, what is the Seal Beach Symphony?

According to Berlinghieri, the idea of a having a symphony in Seal Beach has taken hold and significant support is already in place.  “It’s an entity that we’ve just started, we’ve already got a staff of five administrators and we’re pulling some fantastic players from Los Angeles and Orange County.”

Berlinghieri is a long-time resident of Seal Beach. Although he is perhaps best known as a cantor at St. Anne’s Church, Berlinghieri is himself a tenor of some renown, having toured internationally with major productions.

“As the artistic director of the Seal Beach symphony, we’re now focusing our efforts on the home front and we feel that Seal Beach is the community that can sustain a symphony,” he said.

More than 250 guests filled the ballrooms at Old Ranch Country Club for Love Songs.

“It is a very expensive endeavor,” he acknowledged, “but we feel like Seal Beach is a community that can support that.” Berlinghieri said donors have already stepped forward. “We’ve already raised $100,000 in pledges so that we can qualify for grant and foundation funding,” he said.

“The event itself was fantastic,” he said, adding that Old Ranch Country Club was “very accommodating, the staff was fantastic, and I heard from everyone how much they enjoyed it.

Berlinghieri and his staff had to prepare Old Ranch for the event. In the open ballrooms, his team built a stage, installed stage lights across the room and wired the room for sound. And because of special dancers, they had to prepare a dance floor.

“For Love Songs this year, we built a bigger, better mousetrap, adding different layers of production and the Seal Beach Symphony,” he said.

Soprano Teresa Mai, left, Chad Berlinghieri, center and Hai Nguyen with a $100,000 pledge for the Seal Beach Symphony.

Soprano Sangeeta Teresa Mai, a crowd favorite and “Love Song” veteran, opened the show and elevated the crowd with a rendition of “The Hills are Alive” from the “Sound of Music.” What followed were many classical show tunes sung by Mai, Baritone Ben Lowe from the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Katie Dixon, a star straight from Broadway and a USO tour.

Also performing Saturday evening, straight from his European Tour, was solo Violinist Filip Pogády. Playing on an Alessandro Gagliano violin, crafted back in 1704, (gifted to him by an anonymous donor), Pogády made the instrument sing.

The superstar violinist captured the hearts of the crowd with his bow by taking them to the movies, playing “Por Una Cabeza” from “Scent of a Woman.”

Pogády rejoined the Seal Beach Symphony to accompany professional dancers Jordi Caballero and Ekaterina Fedosova, both alums from the hit TV show Dancing with the Stars, as they wowed everyone to the tune of Tanguera.

Pianist Curtis Heard, part of the Seal Beach Symphony, also provided soothing transitions introducing the artists and as the courses were served.

Berlinghieri was the evening’s emcee and also performed two solos, singing Elvis’ “It’s Now or Never,” and the Jerry Vale classic, Pretend You Don’t See Her.

“I was very happy with the string players and honestly, I think the entire evening was a huge artistic success. Given the gamble of moving the event to Old Ranch,” Berlinghieri said. He said the staff and management rolled out the red carpet for the step and repeat (which is a banner with logos that participants pose in front of while entering an event).

He also said they did a very effective job of serving the meals throughout the entertainment blocks. From a logistical standpoint, the Seal Beach location “was a homerun,” he said. “I think that Seal Beach deserves only the very best,” he said, “and that’s what we bring to the table.”

Jeff Brooks Rolls ‘em in “A Bronx Tale” at the Segerstrom Center

Lynda Lacayo
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Jeff Brooks Rolls ‘em in “A Bronx Tale” at the Segerstrom Center

Bringing the Bronx to the Segerstrom Center is as easy as an auspicious roll of the dice with “A Bronx Tale” arriving at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts on March 10 – 22, 2020.

It’s the true story of Chazz Palminteri’s growing up in 1960’s Bronx. “A Bronx Tale” started as a one man show starring Palminteri (1989), with a little boost from Robert De Niro it hit the big screen (1993), again with Palminteri in a lead role, this time as the Mob Boss, Sonny. Its latest reincarnation is as the crowd pleasing Mobster Musical “A Bronx Tale” (2016).

How, audiences might wonder, can a gangland, shoot ‘em up film lend itself to the musical stage? Fairly easily because at heart it’s a story, Palminteri’s story, of a boy’s coming of age under the guidance of two very different role models, the father he loves and the Mafia Don he admires. Telling the tale in song sets the mood as much as staging. “A Bronx Tale is dubbed “Jersey Boys” meets Westside Story because Doo Wop tunes bring audiences into the Bronx as seamlessly as Motown lets fans know they’ve left the Italian neighborhood at the corner of Belmont and Webster Avenues to arrive in the Black inner-city.

Palminteri’s play was meant to be a musical he says “The themes are so operatic; each character is such an archetype, the father Lorenzo, the son Calogero, and Sonny, the neighborhood Don. It’s about good and evil, love and fear.”

The Broadway production is on the road with touring Director Stephen Edlund and featuring Palminteri approved performers. Among the talented crew is Jeff Brooks as Sonny.

Obliviously, neither Brooks nor any of the players are big time bad. They’re actors, singers and dancers, darn good ones. Brooks, however, claims a background connection that makes him uniquely qualified to play Sonny, the Kingpin in the piece. He says “I played a character named Cheech in ‘Bullets over Broadway.” In Woody Allen’s 1994 movie Palminteri played the 1920’ gangster Cheech. In the movie version of “Bronx Tale,” Palminteri was Sonny. On Broadway, Nick Cordero was Sonny. I’m humbled and honored to be in the company of these great actors. The fact, that I played Cheech in ‘Bullets’ has definitely put me into a mind set to play Sonny.”

“Fans of the now classic movie will absolutely love the musical,” according to Brooks, “we pay homage to the movie but add a musical theatrical aspect to it. For audiences not familiar with the story,” he continues, “it takes place in the 1960’s in New York. This is a time ripe with racial tension, civil rights movements and segregation. So, here’s the thing, in the 1960’s Bronx there are two cultures; the Italian American culture based around the Capo’s, crime bosses and in the same neighborhood is the African American population. It mixes a coming of age story about fathers, sons and family with a tale of star- crossed lovers brave enough to bridge that Webster Avenue segregation line to give love a shot. More importantly it’s about the choices we make and how they help us to become the person we are meant to be. That’s the moral at the heart of the show.”

Jeff Brooks

Brooks three word description of the musical “love or feat” pretty much sums up the story. The  autobiographical script revolves around Calogero (Alec Nevin), Palmintri’s fictional alter-ego, and the male role models, his father Lorenzo (Nick Fradiani), a hard working family man and Sonny, the Mafia Boss, who’s a paradox, a stone cold killer who’s also not such a bad guy. Interestingly enough, both men share much of the same advice about life and love with the youthful Calogero. Their invaluable wisdom, relating to whether it is better to be loved or feared, shape the man he becomes.

Brooks says “My character, Sonny, best expresses the stories message, preaching that you choose how you want to be remembered. Do you want to be loved by people or do you want to be feared by people. You can’t be both, you have to pick one, love or fear. This is what will shape who you will become and the saddest thing in life is wasted talent.”

Sonny is a contradiction of many of the values taught to Calogero by his father, and yes he’s a mobster but he’s not a monster, at least, in Brooks’ opinion. He says, “Sonny is not the villain, the real villain of the piece is inherent racism. It’s the taught feeling of needing to stick to your own, and not going beyond your borders. The musical doesn’t glorify these thugs, they’re criminals but the wise guys aren’t the villains. Real criminal intent is blind hatred of another group of people. That’s a message that rings true today and it’s one that should be told across the country.

An important element of Calogero’s ‘coming of age’ is his falling in love with the right girl with the wrong skin color. This ‘Romano and Juliet’ scenario is highlighted in what Brooks nicknames “The Sonny Test.” He says “It’s about a girl being the special one. To quote Sonny, the only thing good for you is how you feel about each other…You’re only allowed three great women in your life…Sometimes you get them all at once. Tell you right now…Maybe this girl she put wind in your sails. Maybe she’s the first great one.”

“A Bronx Tale” is a story about a boy trying to feel his way out of childhood in “a world where everything seems black or white.” It is, however, the final number “The Choices We Made” which stresses the dangers of betting your soul by cheating. It’s a lesson that would serve us well today.

Shot‘em up, bang, bang, bars, star-crossed lovers, crooners, be-boppers, wise guys and wiser father figures, “A Bronx Tale” is a mix of creativity that is as pleasing to theatrical folks as pasta is to the palate.

And speaking of pasta, Segerstrom Center for the Arts has teamed up with Maggiano’s Little Italy Restaurant (South Coast Plaza) to offer a Dinner and Show Package. The limited offer is for March 13 and March 20 performances only and includes a family feast, a glass of wine and one ticket to the show. The price is $115 per person.

“A Bronx Tale” runs at the Segerstrom Center March 10 -20, 2020. For tickets and information: Online, SCFTA.org; The Box Office, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa; Phone, 714-556-2787.

 

 Cirque du Soleil’s Big Top returns to OC

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 Cirque du Soleil’s Big Top returns to OC

Cirque du Soleil’s Big Top returns to Orange County with its first sports-inspired Big Top production, VOLTA, performing under the Big Top at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa Mesa March 18–April 19, 2020.  VOLTA continues at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles through March 8, 2020.  Tickets for both engagements, starting at $39, are available for purchase by visiting cirquedusoleil.com/volta or calling 1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783).

Energetic, urban and contemporary, VOLTA is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation. It is about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s true potential, and recognizing one’s own power to make it possible. Ultimate freedom comes with self-acceptance, and with the liberation of the judgement of others.

Daryl Miller in the Los Angeles Times said, “Astonishing!  Superbly crafted … everything you’ve seen seems to defy the laws of physics.”  Shana Nys Dambrot said in the LA Weekly, “Based on the universal leap to standing ovations on opening night — it’s going to be a lot of people’s favorite.”

Maggie McKay said on 94.7 THE WAVE, “WOW! — every year they seem to outdo themselves. If you are looking to escape into a magical world where you’ll most likely leave lighter and inspired, this is the show for you!  The artists soar through the air like birds, they jump like kangaroos on trampolines over a two or three-story structure, they [even] twirl from their HAIR!”

The Music of VOLTA – A Stream of Gripping Musical Landscapes

VOLTA is propelled by a series of atmospheric, epic and poetic musical landscapes. Orange County music fans can look forward to VOLTA’s live band, which is complete with powerful vocalists, violinist, percussion and more. The rich, musical performance is perfectly synced with the acrobatics, helping to fully immerse guests into the world of VOLTA.

Written by composer Anthony Gonzalez (M83), the highly cinematic music of VOLTA evokes a complex array of emotions and moods that ebb and flow majestically like the tide. It is a narrative tool in its own right, echoing the different arcs in the storyline and expressing the distinct personalities of the worlds of VOLTA.

BMX & Street Sports

The creators of VOLTA drew inspiration from the spirit of adventure that pervades the world of BMX, street sports and acrobatics. Whether they are on a bike, hopping from rooftop to rooftop, or double dutch rope skipping, urban sports enthusiasts constantly challenge themselves and defy convention.

Sure to be an Orange County crowd pleaser, VOLTA features a full-blown BMX park mounted on stage in front of the audience’s very eyes for the breathtaking BMX finale as riders invade the stage to deliver a jaw-dropping, fast and furious performance of nonstop acrobatics on wheels. The riders go up the jump boxes and perform air tricks before landing and leaping off the ramps again, crisscrossing and spinning their bikes in midair in a spirit of brotherhood.

The Costumes

The stunning costumes of VOLTA have been designed by Emmy Award winner Zaldy Goco, famous for his work with Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani and on RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Rescued Sea Otter to have new home at Aquarium of the Pacific

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Rescued Sea Otter to have new home at Aquarium of the Pacific

Millie the rescued sea otter is expected to officially be welcomed into her new home at the Aquarium of the Pacific as officials are expected to make a major announcement Feb. 27.

According to the Aquarium, “experts will make a major announcement that will impact sea otters of the coast of California.

Biologists are also expected to be on hand to feed Millie, the rescued sea otter, as Millie joins the other sea otters that live in the Sea Otter Habitat in the Northern Pacific Gallery.

Millie is a four-year-old female sea otter who was stranded and rescued off the coast of central California.

The public can visit Millie at the Aquarium staring Feb. 27, during the 10:45 a.m. sea otter presentation.

The nonprofit Aquarium of the Pacific is a community gathering place where diverse cultures and the arts are celebrated and where important challenges facing our planet are explored by scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders in search of sustainable solutions.

The Aquarium is dedicated to conserving and building nature and nature’s services by building the interactions between and among peoples.

Home to more than 12,000 animals, Aquarium exhibits include the new Pacific Visions wing, Ocean Science Center, Molina Animal Care Center, and the Tentacles and Ink and FROGS: Dazzling & Disappearing exhibits. Beyond its animal exhibits, the Aquarium offers educational programs for people of all ages, from hands-on activities to lectures by leading scientists.

Field trips for schoolchildren are offered at a heavily discounted rate, from $7 to $8.50 per student. The Aquarium offers memberships with unlimited FREE admission for 12 months, VIP Entrance, and other special benefits. Convenient parking is available for $8 with Aquarium validation.

 

 

Rossmoor to hold Arbor Day event March 14

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Rossmoor to hold Arbor Day event March 14

In celebration of its 10th year as a Tree City U.S.A., Rossmoor Community Services District will hold an Arbor Day Event on Saturday, Mar. 14 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rush Park in Rossmoor.

The community is invited to join the Rossmoor Community Services District “as we celebrate trees and the magnificent urban forest of Rossmoor.”

Some of the attractions will include a live puppet show, games, activities and crafts for kids, nature exhibits, a park tree tour, tree planting, and a tree and plant opportunity drawing. Food and beverages will be sold.

As part of the Arbor Day celebration the Rossmoor Community Services District will also hold a poetry contest for Los Alamitos Unified School District Students, 5-14 years old. Flyers and instructions can be obtained on the RCSD website: www.rossmoor-csd.org or can be picked up at the Rush Park office. Participants must compose a poem that highlights their love of trees or why they think trees are important to our health, happiness and environment. All styles of poetry are welcome. Be creative.

Grand prize from all grades will win a Boomers! Season Pass. Second Place Prize is a $25 Starbucks Gift Card. Third Place Prize is a $15 Yogurtland Gift Card. Entries should be delivered or emailed to the RCSD office at Rush Park, located at 3001 Blume Drive, Rossmoor, CA 90720 by Wed., March 11. Winning poems will be announced and displayed at the Rossmoor CSD Arbor Day Event on Sat., March 14.

The District appreciates the following sponsors, without which this 2020 Arbor Day Celebration would not be possible: West Coast Arborist (WCA), Tree Care for Birds and Other Wildlife, El Dorado Nature Center, Long Beach Beekeepers, H&H Nursery, Girl Scouts of America, LAHS EAC, Moon Valley Nurseries, Rossmoor Woman’s Club, Los Alamitos Youth Center and Boy Scouts of America.

Further questions concerning your parkway tree may be directed to District Arborist, Mary Kingman at 562-430-3707 ext. 106. For more information, please visit www.rossmoor-csd.org.

 

Courtesy photo

The many trees of Rossmoor as the district continue to plant for the future.

Los Al issued invitation for weekend artists

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Los Al issued invitation for weekend artists

The Los Alamitos Recreation & Community Services Department and the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Arts Commission are excited to announce the return of the 5th Annual Weekend of Art in Los Alamitos scheduled for Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21, 2020.  Mark your calendar and submit your artwork for display.

Weekend of Art is an art exhibition for all medium of art for people of all ages that will highlight the creativity of local artist from Los Alamitos and the surrounding area.  Awards will be given in the following divisions for visual artists:

Mayor’s Award: 1st place

Curator’s Award: 1st place

Commissioner’s Award: 1st place

Art Educator’s Award: 1st place

People’s Choice Award: 1st place

Most Artistic School in the Los Alamitos Unified School District: 1st place

 

Two Dimensional Awards:

Elementary Division (Pre-K-5th grade) Awards: 1st-3rd place

Middle School Division (6th-8th grade) Awards: 1st-3rd place

High School Division (9th-12th grade) Awards: 1st-3rd place

Adult (High School Graduate+) Division Awards: 1st-3rd place

 

Three Dimensional Awards:

Elementary Division (Pre-K-5th grade) Awards: 1st-3rd place

Middle School Division (6th-8th grade) Awards: 1st-3rd place

High School Division (9th-12th grade) Awards: 1st-3rd place

Adult (High School Graduate+) Division Awards: 1st-3rd place

 

There is no charge for submission of art pieces and each artist is allowed to submit up to three pieces.  Winning artists will receive a gift card to the Art Supply Warehouse in Westminster, a certificate signed by the Mayor, and an award ribbon.

First place winners receive a $100 gift card, 2nd place winners receive a $50 gift card, and 3rd place winners receive $25 gift card.  The City of Los Alamitos thanks the Art Supply Warehouse in Westminster for their contributions to the event! Please visit www.cityoflosalamitos.org/recreation for more information or contact the Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 430-1073.

 

Aquarium set to release oil rig study

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Aquarium set to release oil rig study

Experts will gather at the Aquarium of the Pacific on March 4 for the release of a report on decommissioning offshore oil rigs in California and to discuss issues surrounding them, the Aquarium of the Pacific announced this week.

The report summarizes the proceedings and findings of a forum held at the Aquarium in January. Forum participants included representatives from federal and state agencies responsible for the oil rig decommissioning process, industry experts, and academic scientists.

The Aquarium’s report condenses experts’ presentations on the current status of oil rigs off California’s coast, existing regulations regarding decommissioning, and what actions are needed to allow the state to benefit from all the options, including leaving them in place as reefs. Members of the media are invited to hear from and interview experts to find out the issues surrounding California’s offshore oil rigs and to explore what can be done.

The experts include; John Smith, consultant, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (retired)

Ann Scarborough Bull, researcher, Marine Science Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara Jeremy Claisse, associate professor, Biological Sciences Department, Cal Poly Pomona

Dr. Jerry Schubel, president and CEO, Aquarium of the Pacific. The event will be livestreamed on the AOP website, officials said.

 

Contreras to speak on U.S. Census Data ‘power’ at Chamber meeting

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Contreras to speak on U.S. Census Data ‘power’ at Chamber meeting

According to a local official of the U.S. Census Bureau, the once-a-decade survey of the United States reveals “power” for local businesses, and he will explain more at the March networking meeting of the Los Alamitos Area Chamber.

Joseph Contreras, an official with the Los Angeles Regional Census office of the U.S. Census Bureau will speak to the Chamber this Friday, March 6 at 7:30 a.m.

The Chamber’s meeting will be held at Maderas Steak & Ribs.

According to Contreras, the Census is the nation’s largest provider of statistics and data.

To learn more, the public is invited to attend the monthly meeting. Please pre-pay online to reserve your seat at  www.losalchamber.org. The cost is $35 for non-members and $25 for members and military.

 

Opposition growing for YMCA sports partnership

David N. Young
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Opposition growing for YMCA sports partnership

Citizens lined up at the Feb. 10 city council meeting to express their misgivings about the city of Cypress’ proposed “partnership” with the Anaheim YMCA.

Further, citizens also complained about the city’s apparently use “selective communications” with citizens about controversial projects.

The back-to-back pleas from residents came during the public comment period of the meeting as the city envisions handing over administrative control of its recreation programs to the Anaheim YMCA.

The city recently announced an “unsolicited proposal” to merge the city recreation programs with the Anaheim based YMCA, which they claim would be a cost saving measure. The city of Anaheim has a population of 340,000 residents compared to approximately 50,000 for Cypress.

In a variety of responses, residents expressed perplexity about why this even happening, and one resident, Brooke Nafarrete said she heard that “somebody on the (YMCA) board is married to somebody on (city) staff.”

Nafarrete also questioned the “fuzzy math” of financial information she requested about the project, questioning by Cypress recreation is paying more than $70,000 in “fringe benefits” for a recreation program in the first place.

As a project manager, she said “when there is a partnership, both sides should have a benefit. After studying the city’s proposal, “I cannot seem to figure out how the youth (of Cypress) benefit from the YMCA’s takeover of Cypress Recreation.

Christian Jackson, a long-time coach, board member and advisor to Cypress recreation programs actually pleaded with the council not to move forward with the plan. “Please don’t just hand over the basketball program to the YMCA without listening to our residents,” he said.

Further, he said if it was simply an issue of money, “People I talk to are willing to pay double” to keep the programs in Cypress.

Brittney Cook also suggested citizens are willing to pay more “to keep it here and find a way to make it work.” If the program is merged with the YMCA, she suggested it “would have really negative consequences for the children; and that is who matters most.”

Nafarrete also complained about the city’s lack of communication about the Shea Homes public hearing, saying she could not find it even listed on the city’s web site.

City manager Peter Grant said the city has never advertised community meetings for third party projects. Further, Grant said the city has unveiled its own mobile app to improve communications between the city and its residents since the “fall of local media.”

He also rejected any impropriety saying the city “does not hold meetings just to say that we had them.”

Makela Bowen?, a 13-year-old Cypress resident, urged the city not to transfer the recreation program to the Anaheim YMCA. Currently, she said such a move would be like breaking up a “real family.”

Further, she said, from a competitive perspective, the YMCA “doesn’t even compete” with the level of play in the Cypress program.

Mayor Ron Johnson said the city is currently evaluating the YMCA proposal before making a final decision.

City employee Adrian Smith gave city officials and the public a walk-through of the local Cypress city app that is now available in most mobile app stores. It will allow residents to transact much of their interaction with the city using a mobile phone.

Cook, while she did complain about the YMCA proposal, gave the city props on the app. “I downloaded it today and whomever was in charge of this did a great job.”

In other action, the city of Cypress:

  • Heard from the University of California, Irvine (UCI) that is was selected by Money Magazine as the nation’s #1 university, with more than 32,000 students, nearly 25 thousand employees and a $5 billion economic impact.
  • Learned that SoCal Gas has appointed a local management team for an upcoming gas pipeline upgrade project to affect the city of Cypress.
  • Heard complaints from several recreational vehicle owners regarding the lack of communication about recent rate hikes and permit changes that were putting them at a parking disadvantage.

 

Solidarity Walk to Honor Victims of Human Trafficking

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Solidarity Walk to Honor Victims of Human Trafficking

By Rosemary Lewallen

Health Ministry’s Bridge of Light: Human Trafficking to Human Triumph Ministry held a Solidarity Walk and Prayer Vigil to honor victims of human trafficking on the evening of Feb. 8 at St. Irenaeus Catholic Church in Cypress.

About 65 people attended, including Senator Ling Ling Chang and current Cypress City Councilwoman and former Mayor Stacy Berry.

Solidarity Walk honors victims of human trafficking. Photo by Dave Peeters

Jarring statistics printed on poster board and displayed on easels were noticeable in the church. One stated, “Human trafficking generates an estimated $150 million USD annually.” Another read, “1% of victims are ever rescued.” A third sign stated that, “Every 30 seconds someone becomes a slave.”

The theme was to shine a light on the human suffering caused by human trafficking by informing the public about the reality of this heinous crime that is often hidden in our midst. The goal was for us to become the light of hope to victims to help them find healing and a new life. To exemplify this, lighted candles and lanterns adorned the steps up to the altar in the church.

The solidarity walk started in the church with Taize prayer and then the candle-lit walkers, led by Fr. Aaron Galvizo, proceeded outside with prayers and song to several prayer stations where true stories of human trafficking victims were told. We ended the procession in the Education Building, where resources were available and a table of Fair Trade items was on display.

Representatives from Orangewood Foundation spoke to the group about their mission to assist foster and community youth, who are most vulnerable to human trafficking, to reach their greatest potential in life. We learned that in Orange County 415 human trafficking victims were assisted in 2017 and 2018; 359 of these were victims of sex trafficking; 302 were new victims.

The Orangewood Foundation offers Project Choice to youth ages 11 – 21 years of age to regain their power of choice. It is a safe drop-in center that is non-judgemental where youth can receive basic necessities, such as, hot meals, a shower, clothing and hygiene items, as well as individual therapy, workshops, yoga, a young mom’s group, survivor leadership and peer mentors. Support also includes case management, medical, mental health and substance use support, education and employment assistance, court support and advocacy.

The Orangewood Foundation also has transitional housing for women survivors of sex trafficking ages 18 – 22 in Orange County. This is a home in a confidential location that provides safety, intensive case management, connections to programs, services and community resources. It is a two-year program to help victims heal and gain independence.

Cypress Councilwoman and former Mayor, Stacy Berry, praised the efforts of the Bridge of Light:  Human Trafficking to Human Triumph Ministry and told us that Cypress City Council declared the month of January “Human Trafficking Awareness Month” in both 2019 and in 2020.

Senator Ling Ling Chang from the 29th District said that she sponsored a bill that reinstated $10 million to help human trafficking victims. She is seeking to reclassify human trafficking as a violent felony. Senator Chang presented a Certificate of Recognition to St. Irenaeus Church for its efforts to combat human trafficking through increased public awareness and support of vulnerable youth.

Later, everyone was invited to prepare and send letters to their Senators and Congressional Representative, asking them to author or sponsor legislation that fights sex trafficking and other modern forms of slavery. Letters were handed out to be completed by the attendees and mailed to Senators Dianne Feinstein and Kamala Harris and to The Honorable Alan Lowenthal.

The date, Feb. 8, was also the feast day of St. Josephine Bakhita, patron saint of human trafficking, as well as the International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking.

The National Human Trafficking Hotline is 1-888-373-7888.  We were encouraged to report suspicion of human trafficking so that professionals can investigate it.  If you have any questions, contact Monica Kovach, Health Ministry Facilitator at 310-490-6113.

Photos attached by Rosemary Lewallen

 

La Palma Kiwanis Club recognizes Walmart, JFK food pantry

David N. Young
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La Palma Kiwanis Club recognizes Walmart, JFK food pantry

The Kiwanis Club of La Palma on Thursday recognized Walmart and several of the clubs’ members for their work in providing food for those less fortunate this past holiday season.

In recognition of the event, La Palma Mayor Peter Kim and Mayor Pro-tem Nitesh Patel attended the event to thank the club for its work in the community.

The Club recognizes Richard Lutz along with Mayra Wicks and JFK Principal Adam Hernandez.

According to spokesman Mark Pritchard, the Kiwanis club applied for and received a $2,000 grant in late 2019 from Walmart to fund its annual project to feed families. It also funded re-stocking the food pantry at John F. Kennedy High school.

“We are extremely grateful to Walmart for their assistance in our annual holiday food project,” he said. Other members generally expressed gratitude to Walmart for their original decision to move into the community back in 2013.

The large retail space on La Palma Ave. was an eyesore until Walmart decided to utilize the space with a Walmart Neighborhood Market, stores. The market serves community needs but they are typically about one-third the size of the chain’s large supercenters, said one of the members.

The La Palma Kiwanis Club recognizes Keith Nelson.

La Palma Walmart store manager Daniel Cortes was among the delegation of four employees honored at Kiwanis breakfast, including, assistant manager Lisabeth Myers, Mary Ann Smith, MPA and Gabriella Neville, support manager. He thanked the club for the recognition and the community support.

Each year during holiday season, the Kiwanis distributes food baskets and gift cards to selected and screened families in the La Palma area, said Pritchard.

In addition, the club coordinates with the food pantry at Kennedy High School to make sure it is properly stocked. He said the club donated about $500 of the grant to the school’s food pantry.

Accordingly, JFK Principal Adam Hernandez and Myrna Wicks, the school’s family and community engagement specialist, were also honored during this week’s breakfast meeting.

The Kiwanis also honored two of their own members for their work on the program, including Richard Lutz, who coordinates for the club with the JFK food pantry and Keith Nelson, who works with the community to screen the families qualified for the holiday food boxes.

LAEF Crowns Sherry Kropp with $135,000 raised at annual fundraiser

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LAEF Crowns Sherry Kropp with $135,000 raised at annual fundraiser

The Los Alamitos Education Foundation (LAEF) crowned its Queen at the Royal Gala on February 7 at The Grand in Long Beach.  This year’s queen is retired superintendent Dr. Sherry Kropp. Due to her strong ties to LAEF and the community, and her endless support of Los Al kids, Sherry was appointed by the LAEF Board to be crowned Queen of the Royal Gala and to serve as the LAEF royal ambassador for the year.

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.

Carrie Logue, LAEF Executive Director said, “We are thrilled and by the amount of support we received this year from the community and our generous sponsors.”

Top sponsors City National Bank, SXS Industries, Southland Credit Union and PacificWest were on hand to celebrate LAEF’s 2020 Queen.  Upon arrival, guests were educated and astonished by live STEAM presentations by Los Alamitos USD students from McGaugh Elementary School, Oak Middle School and Los Alamitos High School.  The crowd enjoyed music from a jazz combo of Los Alamitos High School students.  Dr. Kropp was surprised shortly after her coronation by members of the McAuliffe Middle School Show Choir who sang “Isn’t She Lovely” to her and each student presented her with a rose.  Mark Thomas, of On the Mark auctions, returned as the Master of Ceremonies.

Dr. Kropp was crowned by last year’s King and Queen, George and Linda Sagen, long-time residents and community leaders of Los Alamitos.

LAEF President Kevin Guetig remarked, “I am truly amazed by the ongoing success of the Royal Gala campaign.  Our fundraising has totaled to over $870,000 over the past seven years and Royal Gala attendance has grown to 270 community members.  These funds will continue to benefit all students as proceeds support our STEAM Initiative (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Math), which provides instruction and fairs on all campuses, and the district-wide STEAM showcase on April 25 at LAHS.  It also supports Media Center teachers at all elementary schools and seed funds to enhance STEAM learning all year long.”

LAEF is the non-profit partner of Los Alamitos Unified School District.  LAEF enhances educational excellence in our community by providing after-school and summer enrichment programs to Pre-K to 12th grade students.  For additional information on LAEF, please call (562) 799-4700 x80424 or visit www.LAEF4Kids.org.

Courtesy photo

 

 

Los Al deserves a say in Shea Homes Cypress project

David N. Young
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Los Al deserves a say in Shea Homes Cypress project

Dear Editor,

I’m just a local attorney.

I don’t have any special expertise in the project or in land development. Mr. Keenan certainly appears to have considerable insight into this project. I looked at https://www.cypresscitycenter.com/faq and find little real information. I looked at the Cypress City web site and find little other than, now with title to the property vesting in the City of Cypress, it’s time to develop the 13 acres.

It all looks adequate. The drawings of the proposed development look a lot like dozens of other developments. Mr. Keenan’s references to additional local dining, a dog park, high-end housing, and additional city revenue all sound good. And they sound like what we might expect.

I question, however, why Mr. Keenan brushes aside concerns with burdening Katella, makes no mention of other infrastructure improvements that would be necessary, or the generic look of the proposed development. I mean just because the zoning seems appropriate and that other nearby developments have similar density and business presences does not remotely suggest that this particular development is wise, well-considered, or friendly to its neighbors.

The burden on Katella will directly affect Los Alamitos. Waze will make sure that drivers on the increasingly impacted avenue will take routes like Farquar, which are not throughfares, but, rather, are just neighborhood routes.

Yes, I’d like more choice in restaurants, more local businesses, and the ability of more people to find housing. I take from Mr. Keenan’s description, however, the housing would only be for the well-to-do.

Those of us in Los Alamitos, especially those of us either on or near Katella, should weigh in on all of this. I suppose this means going to Cypress City Council meetings.

 

Henry J. Josefsberg, Esq.

4050 East Katella Avenue

Suite 205

Los Alamitos, California 90720

(562) 342-9401 (voice)

(562) 342-9403 (fax)

Umberg wants consumers to control of their genetic data

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Umberg wants consumers to control of their genetic data

Senator Thomas J. Umberg (D-Santa Ana) announced today his introduction of legislation that would assure consumers that Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) genetic testing companies will use their genetic data solely for the purposes they consented to.

“The fact that the Pentagon just warned all of the country’s military personnel to avoid home DNA tests should raise bright red flags for all consumers,” said Senator Umberg.  “Direct-to-Consumer genetic testing companies have, to date, gone largely unregulated by either state or national governments. This has led to the disclosure of consumers’ private biological information to third parties.”

Although the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) regulates DTC genetic companies by allowing consumers to request information on how their data is being used and to opt out if they so wish, it does not solve the fact that current authorization forms are confusing, and consumers often lack clarity about what they are consenting to. Several media outlets have published stories in recent months of genetic data being improperly used to conduct drug research, discriminate against possible consumers in regard to insurance products, or being stored on hackable private servers.

In December 2019, the Pentagon issued a memo asking service members to not use DTC genetic services due to, “the increased concern in the scientific community that outside parties are exploiting the use of genetic materials for questionable purposes, including mass surveillance and the ability to track individuals without their authorization or awareness.”

Umberg’s measure, Senate Bill 980, creates strict guidelines for authorization forms in a manner that allows consumers to have control over how their DNA will be used. In addition, the measure creates civil penalties for companies that fail to comply with the provisions within it. By passing this act, California would be joining four other states that have made it clear that consumers should control their genetic data without fear of third parties exploiting it. “Forcing these companies to clarify their consent forms and requiring them to obtain written authorization for any genetic data disclosure, including de-identified data, will reassure California consumers that their most personal information is safe,” noted Senator Umberg.

In support of SB 980, Emily Rusch, Executive Director of the California Public Interest Research Group (CALPIRG) noted that, “Consumers deserve to have complete control over the sharing of our genetic data, the most personal, private information about our bodies. We strongly support this proposal to require consumers’ opt-in consent before genetic data is shared with third parties.”

Senate Bill 980 (language attached) will be assigned to, and heard, by Senate policy committees in mid-late March.

Courtesy photo

Los Alamitos Medical Center Celebrates Heart Health Month

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Los Alamitos Medical Center Celebrates Heart Health Month

The Los Alamitos Medical Center recognized heart health month by providing tips to local residents and sponsoring a local luncheon which occurred Feb. 14.

According to Los Al Medical, if you know someone with heart disease, they can take steps immediately to reduce the risks. Here are the tips (in summary):

  1. eat healthy
  2. exercise regularly
  3. don’t smoke
  4. maintain a healthy weight

In addition, the staff at Los Alamitos Medical Center recognized National Heart Health Awareness Month by sponsoring the Orange County Go Red for Women luncheon on Feb. 14th and presenting a community lecture by Dr. Steven Becker.

Becker’s lecture was entitled “Your Heart is in the Right Place.”

Regardless of your age or health, it’s never too late to take steps to start protecting your heart. For more information about heart health, talk with your doctor or call 800-548-5559 for a free referral to a cardiologist near you.

 

La Palma-Cerritos AAUW Fundraiser Honors Alberta Brose and Elsie Carbajal

Edna Ethington
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La Palma-Cerritos AAUW Fundraiser Honors Alberta Brose and Elsie Carbajal

Twenty-eight members and guests came La Palma-Cerritos Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) luncheon fundraiser for the AAUW Fund on Saturday, February 8, 2020 at Mimi’s Bistro & Bakery in Cerritos.  Everyone enjoyed a wonderful lunch with soup or salad, coffee, tea, lemonade or a soft drink, and a choice of entrée.  With enticing entrees of Smoked Salmon Baguette, a Cranberry-Walnut Salad with Chicken, French Dip Beef, or a Creamy Chicken & Mushroom Pasta offered as choices, most of the guests chose the Cranberry-Walnut Salad with Chicken as their entrée.  They also came to remember and honor, their beloved member and friend, the late Alberta Brose, and to hear guest speaker Elsie Carbajal, an AAUW Fund Grant winner.,

La Palma-Cerritos AAUW President Harriet Moses and AAUW Fund VP Faith Herschler were pleased to welcome the members and special guests who came to honor Alberta Brose, and meet Elsie Carbajal.  Elsie was the winner of the 2019 AAUW Fund Career Development Grant of $12,000. The La Palma-Cerritos branch contributed $5,000 of the AAUW Fund Grant, through donations received from Alberta’s family and branch members, for the Alberta Brose Memorial Scholarship. The Alberta Brose Memorial Scholarship was designated to be given to a woman who returned to college to study for higher degrees, after five or more years absence, just as Alberta returned to school late in her life.

Six other AAUW branches contributed towards Elsie’s grant, including California AAUW branches in Laguna Beach, San Diego County, Los Angeles, San Clemente-Capistrano Bay, Redlands, and Somerset Hills in New Jersey.

Tobi Balma, a founding member of the branch and friend of Alberta Brose, shared some information she received from Alberta’s daughter, Chris Cassidy, about Alberta’s life and inspiring accomplishments. Members may not have known that Alberta began playing the violin at age six and later studied piano.  She received a music scholarship to attend college, but she dropped out of college in her sophomore year, at the age of 19 when her mother died of leukemia.  She then married at age 20, and she and her husband had three children. Alberta returned to school to study for her college degrees when her youngest child started high school.  She got her teaching degrees, and later worked for 10 years to receive a Ph. D degree. She received her Ph.D.  in Cultural Anthropology at UC Riverside in 1982 at the age of 50.  When she was not able to find full-time work as a college teacher, she started an Allstate Insurance Agency. She also helped her husband with his home-based production business by making and marketing bounce juggling balls until she was 85 years old.  Alberta died at age 86 about three years ago.

After listening to all that Alberta accomplished in her life, Elsie Carbajal was overcome with emotion as she expressed her appreciation for receiving the Alberta Brose Memorial Scholarship through the AAUW Fund Career Development Grant.  She said that it was a divine blessing to receive the grant, because she was rejected the first time she tried for a grant.  She said that she taught in New Jersey for 13 years before coming to California and had to go back to school to get her California Teaching Credential.  She lives in Ontario and is a Special Education teacher in a high school in Riverside County.   She received her M.A.  degree in Education Leadership in June of 2019.,

Pictured at the La Palma-Cerritos AAUW fundraiser at Mimi’s in Cerritos on Feb. 8, 2020, are, left to right, branch member Tobi Balma, guest speaker Elsie Carbajal, President Harriet Moses, and AAUW Fund VP Faith Herschler.

Elsie said that she has a daughter who has ADHD and is passionate about empowering people with special needs.  She also had an aunt with disabilities, who died last year. She said she wanted to show how much she appreciated the AAUW Grant that she received herself by “paying it forward.” She started a fund in her aunt’s name, “Chuly’s Scholarship,” for her Aunt Nereida “Chuly” Rodriguez. She said she hoped to raise $500 for a scholarship to present to a senior at John W. North High School in Riverside County in May of 2020.  She said that she wanted to especially help girls with special needs, who need help the most, so that they will exceed their own expectations.

When asked what she does currently as a Special Education teacher, she said teaches beginning literature.  She supports students with mild to moderate functional disorders by teaching them how to organize their classwork. She also prepares high school seniors to transition to adult life by teaching

them to write resumes and prepare for interviews. Elsie said that each of her students has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) which is reviewed every three years.  Elsie then answered individual questions from those present.

Members and guests applauded Elsie’s speech and felt that Elsie truly deserved to receive the AAUW Fund Career Development Grant and the Alberta Brose Memorial Scholarship.  They were pleased to meet her in person and felt that Alberta would have been glad that she won the grant.

Special family guests included Alberta Brose’s daughter, Chris Cassidy, and her daughter, Keri Cassidy Busino, who came from Escondido in San Diego County, and Alberta’s granddaughter-in-law, Katherine Cassidy, who came from Oceanside. Other special guests included Carlyn Hemminger, a Past-President and former member of the La Palma-Cerritos AAUW branch Andrea Speredy from the former Rio Hondo/Huntington Beach AAUW Branch.

President Harriet Moses thanked everyone for coming to support the AAUW Fund Career Development Grants, and honor Elsie Carbajal and the late Alberta Brose.

She also announced that the AAUW Los Angeles County Interbranch Council invites everyone to come to a Tea Party on Sunday, March 8, from 2 to 4 p.m. in Pasadena celebrating International Women’s Day.  For more information, contact Harriet at 714-994-1487.

Thanks to the generosity of everyone who came to the luncheon, the fundraiser at Mimi’s was a great success!  According to La Palma-Cerritos AAUW branch Treasurer Marilyn Forsstrom, the AAUW Fund fundraiser raised a total of $973.  These funds will help more graduate women complete their degrees with AAUW Fund Grants.

Photos and I.D, by Edna Ethington

Rossmoor Woman’s Club hears from Chloe, African Sisterhood

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Rossmoor Woman’s Club hears from Chloe, African Sisterhood

Chloe, the famous Long Beach rescue pup, set off a roomful of “oohs,” “ahhs” and “oh, how cutes” when she made a special guest appearance at the Rossmoor Woman’s Club meeting on February 12.

Chloe attended with human friend Diana Kliche of Fix Long Beach, a nonprofit organization that provides free spay and neuter services for dogs and cats, small dog rescues and outreach to provide necessities for the pets of homeless individuals.

The maltese-poodle-terrier mix generated international attention shortly after Thanksgiving in 2017 when she was found beaten, soaked in human urine and stuffed into a plastic bag in a trash bin in Long Beach. Fix Long Beach stepped in to get Chloe medical care (to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars, paid mostly by donations, Kliche said) and to find her a loving forever home. (Chloe’s abuser has not been found, although there is still an outstanding $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction.)

Fix Long Beach was founded in 2013 and serves the Long Beach area and southern Los Angeles Counties with mobile spay and neuter clinics held in local parks and run by licensed veterinarians.  The goal was to keep unwanted animals out of shelters, and since the organization’s inception, the number of pets euthanized in Long Beach has dropped 94 percent, Kliche said.  Find more information online at www.fixlongbeachpets.com

Rossmoor Woman’s Club President Maggie Paul presented Kliche with a donation of $2,000 from the club, which raises money to support local non-profit organizations through various fundraisers, including the annual Holiday Home Tour every December and Spring Garden Tour each May.

At the meeting, the club also heard from a representative of another of its sponsored charities, African Sisterhood.  This organization was founded by Jessica Ridgeway in 2016 when she was a student at Los Alamitos High School.  After visiting Kenya with her family, Ridgeway had been appalled to learn that many girls had to drop out of school when they began menstruating because of a lack of sanitary supplies. She formed African Sisterhood to make reusable sanitary napkins, which are packaged in kits with underwear, soap, washcloths and other necessary items.

Rossmoor Woman’s Club members were among volunteers who helped make the napkins last year, and Jessica’s mother Tricia Ridgeway spoke at the meeting to update the group on African Sisterhood’s work.

Last year, African Sisterhood distributed just over 300 kits to two orphanages, two schools and a rescue center.  This year it plans to donate another 300 kits and to purchase a sewing machine for the Tasaru rescue center in the Narok district of Kenya.

Girls who have received the kits have been able to avoid early marriages and continue their educations, and “when you provide girls with educations, you give back to the entire community,” Tricia Ridgeway said, wiping tears from her eyes.

Ridgeway also invited the group to attend the premiere of a documentary film about African Sisterhood, “Stitched at the Heart,” produced by David N. Young, editor of the Los Alamitos Event News-Enterprise.

The premiere is scheduled for 10 a.m. March 21 at the Art Theater of Long Beach, 2025 East Fourth St., Long Beach. Tickets are $20 and are available online at africansisterhood.org or by emailing africansisterhood@aol.com.

Courtesy photo

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