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Youth Center offers valuable online classes

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Youth Center offers valuable online classes

Since establishing in 1952, The Youth Center has helped thousands of kids and their families get a leg up in school through our tutoring programs and making scholarships available for those in need.

In keeping with new rules during the Covid-19 quarantine, The Youth Center has now established free online group tutoring program.  One of the virtual classes is hosted by Danny Bird every Thursday from 3pm-4pm.  Danny is a 2019 LAHS graduate, Every 15 Minutes program participant, and a student at Fullerton College who is studying theatre. Kids love to connect with him, share their quarantine stories and complete their projects. This class and many others are open to every child in the community who needs a little extra help with homework and to stay connected with other children.

“I love that moment when a student goes from confused and hating a subject to having something click inside them and realize that the subject isn’t as bad as they think it is”, shared Danny Bird.

Haydyn (6 years old) had been enrolled in The Youth Center’s tutoring program through our Rascals after school program when the pandemic hit. “We were worried that she would fall behind but were glad to know that online one-on-one tutoring will continue”, shared her grandparents. The Youth Center tutoring team stepped up. They connected with Haydyn’s teacher to find out where she needed the most help. Tutor Bailey created a new routine for this student. Now Haydyn completes her classwork and homework ahead of schedule and is becoming a master reader.

“That “aha” moment when a problem makes sense is quite satisfying and to be there with the student when it happens is a privilege”, shared Ms. Bailey, The Youth Center Tutor

We are in a moment in time that our children need us more than ever. From having routine, going to school, participating in extra activities to staying at home and managing the work on their own. It’s especially hard for children who have working from home parents. Children could fall behind in school and become depressed. The group tutoring is here to help children be the best in their class, and to continue to have healthy friendships with their fellow classmates. The Youth Center staff is improving daily on ways to stay connected and communicate during these difficult times.

The Youth Center has been offering scholarships to families in need for over 65 years.  Since they opened the doors, the center did not decline a single scholarship application. With COVID19, the need for scholarships increased. If you are fortunate during these devastating times and can help a struggling family, consider donating any amount at www.TheYouthCenter.org

Rossmoor sewer board seeking to fill appointment

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Rossmoor sewer board seeking to fill appointment

The Board of Directors of the Rossmoor-Los Alamitos Area Sewer District seeks candidates to fill a vacancy in the Board of Directors by appointment.
All interested resident voters residing in the District, encompassing the City of Los Alamitos, the unincorporated Rossmoor Community, and portions of Seal Beach and Cypress are invited to submit a written letter of interest and qualifications to the Board of Directors no later than June 1, 2020 at PO BOX 542, 3243 Katella Avenue, Los Alamitos, CA. 90720, or you can send it by e-mail to lo****************@***il.com.
The Board will consider the appointment at its regular meeting scheduled for June 8, 2020 at 7:00 p.m.
For additional information, please contact the District at 562-431-2223 or by e-mail at lo****************@***il.com.

City monitoring outbreak at Los Al skilled nursing home

David N. Young
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City monitoring outbreak at Los Al skilled nursing home

In an emergency meeting held Thursday evening, the Los Alamitos city council learned that a spike in cases was attributable to the Alamitos West skilled nursing home.

Mayor Richard D. Murphy said on Friday that city manager Chet Simmons and emergency consultant Ron Roberts briefed the council in an emergency meeting Thursday evening.

City officials are doing everything possible to monitor the developments, but Murphy said that the Orange County Health Department has ultimate authority over supervising the outbreak.

Numbers reported by the Event-News Enterprise reported yesterday were correct, he said, and there was not much beyond that the city was able to do. He said all safety precautions in the city’s emergency plans are being followed.

According to the California Department of Public Health website, Alamitos West in Los Alamitos is reporting significant numbers of cases and deaths.

The site said Alamitos West has reported coronavirus cases involving 38 residents, less than 11 healthcare workers at the site also infected, and less than 11 deaths.

According to the Orange Country Healthcare Agency, the city of Los Alamitos is now reporting 55 cases overall, which includes two more than Thursday. Cypress and La Palma each reported one additional case, which totals 53 in Cypress and 16 in La Palma.

Los Alamitos surrenders in the anti-Sanctuary city fight

David N. Young
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Los Alamitos surrenders in the anti-Sanctuary city fight

Following more than two years of controversy and lawsuits, the Los Alamitos city council voted unanimously this week to repeal an ordinance that sparked protests and gained national attention.

Approval of the so-called antiSanctuary City ordinance back in early 2018 set off a political firestorm that saw dozens of California cities follow suit.

The ordinance attempted to exempt the city from compliance with the California Values Act, a state statute that limited local governments from cooperating with federal immigration officials.

Meeting by video conference on Monday, the city council voted unanimously repeal the ordinance that opted out of the CVA. According to some, the ordinance had also caused fear and divisions in the city.

Although the ordinance repeal passed unanimously, council member Shelley Hasselbrink said “with the threat of being sued into bankruptcy, I reluctantly say yes.”

In early 2018, a standing-room only crowd watched as the Council debated the original ordinance. The local ordinance was authored by then council member Warren Kusumoto, who resigned his seat in December of 2019 to accept a position with his company that required him to move to the east coast.

“We are a charter city,” Kusumoto then told an ABC7 reporter, “and if the state can ignore federal law, by the same token our city should be able to ignore state law.”

“We really don’t believe in the sanctuary bill and we would like to take a position to state our case and make it clear to our residents where we stand,” then Mayor Troy Edgar was quoted as saying.

Edgar has since termed out and accepted a position in Washington in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Although Los Alamitos was the first city to make such a declaration, they were not alone. Shortly after the vote, more than 60 cities, including Huntington Beach, followed suit.

The death blow to the Los Al ordinance came on April 2 when the state Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal to a ruling delivered by an Appeals Court which had overturned a Superior Court’s decision in favor of Huntington Beach over the same issue.

A memo from city attorney Michael Daudt recommended the repeal as part of a settlement agreement with the ACLU, which had sued the city on behalf of Los Alamitos Community

United.

He noted repeal would “avoid the expense of continuing litigation.”

Pastor Sam Mullen, a plantiff and vocal opponent of the ordinance, applauded the council action Monday and said the city could now begin to heal. He said the Council was “taking the right steps” to eliminate what he said was “fear” growing in the community.

“There is tremendous affirmation from the community and this reverses much division and discord,” said Mullen.

“This really lifts up the hope that this can be the start of rebuilding of public trust in the community,” he said. “It shows that the climate has really changed in the city of Los Alamitos,” said Mullen, adding that “a lot of clergy and religious leaders of different faiths’ were in favor of the move.

Mullen said the community was now in a “better place.”

Other than Hasselbrink’s brief comment, no other member of the council said anything as they voted to repeal their earlier ordinance.

Members of the public, however, had submitted numerous comments on the issue.
City Clerk Windy Quintanar said the city received 28 comments on the issue.

“In all times — and even more so in these days when we are doing our best to respond to the COVID-19, public trust and solidarity among community members is essential to the common good,” said Greg Walgenbach, Director of Life, Justice and Peace, Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange.

“Where that trust is lacking or seeds of division sown, there can be no peace and flourishing in the city,” he added.

La Palma mayor says strong finances helping to cushion economic blow

David N. Young
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La Palma mayor says strong finances helping to cushion economic blow

Although the pandemic has struck a financial blow to every local government, the city of La Palma’s finances have been bolstered by an ordinance passed back in 2017 that mandates savings for emergencies.

Mayor Peter Kim said this week that while La Palma’s treasury has been seriously affected by the pandemic, an ordinance requiring an amount equivalent to 50 percent of its previous year’s budget to always be held in reserve, should ease the city through the crisis.

In addition, Kim said the ordinance, passed in 2017, also requires the city council to transfer at least 25 percent of any budget surplus into that emergency fund each year.

The result, said Kim, is that the city has enough in reserve (all funds) to cover its current yearly budget, though only a small portion will likley be required to cover the COVID deficit.

Kim said some of those funds will be required for the current shortfall, but overall, the city’s is still in relatively good financial shape (see related story).

“It seems like things are getting somewhat better, and I know folks overall are cautiously optimistic about the future,” he said.

Nevertheless, Kim said the state of emergency would continue and the city would adhere to all state and federal guidelines as the city slowly reopens to the public.

Kim noted that it will take a while to know the exact extent of the job loss in the city and the overall financial impact of the pandemic.

He said the various reporting agencies will not be able to report the final numbers until they can be properly calculated, he said.

“There are some folks ready to get out there and start working again,” said Kim.

“Unfortunately, these are unprecedented times, and while folks are just ready to do things they need to do, we’ll open slowly, according to state guidelines, until there is a permanent solution.”

JFTB doubles down on COVID security

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JFTB doubles down on COVID security

Security Forces (SECFOR) Soldiers at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, are enhancing operations and adding additional security measures in order to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to ensure the health of personnel and visitors at the Southern California installation.

“With new restrictions and screening requirements for COVID-19 at the front gate, SECFOR has not only handled those very professionally and with courtesy, but they have also been able to keep traffic flowing into the post with minimal delays,” said U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Michael J. Leeney, the installation commander.

While day-to-day operations like ID card checks, enforcing base policy, and patrolling the base have continued, the Soldiers have also learned to screen people entering the base for symptoms of the virus and check temperatures, said Cpl. Nestor Vasquez, the assistant day shift supervisor for security forces.

“We ask them if they have any symptoms, and if they have a fever of over 101 degrees, we have to turn them away,” said Vasquez, a native of nearby Orange.
Soldiers with the SECFOR team are also responsible for ensuring that social distancing standards are maintained and face coverings are worn when applicable in order to protect personnel from the spread of COVID-19, said Staff Sgt, Lance Fuller, the team’s non commissioned officer in charge.

“It’s something we all have to do out of personal responsibility for our fellow Soldiers and man,” said Fuller.

Hundreds of California National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are activated for COVID-19 humanitarian support missions throughout the state, which has caused an increase in activity at military bases, including JFTB.

While increased personnel present new challenges to security operations, the team believes the adjustments are necessary in order to keep everyone safe and healthy, said California State Guard Sgt. Marco Chavez, the team’s day shift supervisor.

“I see the SECFOR as one of the most integral parts of the Health Protection measures we have enacted at JFTB,” said Leeney. “Their constant vigilance has contributed to the safety and welfare of both tenants and visitors alike during the COVID-19 crisis.”

La Palma council member worried about new state regs for granny flats

David N. Young
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La Palma council member worried about new state regs for granny flats

A member of the La Palma city council is not at all happy about changes made by the California assembly requiring the city to update its ordinance permitting Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU), or so-called ‘granny flats.’

“We are being forced to do this,” said council member Gerard Goedhart, who also said he feared “neighborhoods could get messed up” as a result of the changes.
California state officials, to create more housing in the state, has expanded the regulations since they were first approved.

His comments came after staff explained changes required in local ordinances to accommodate the new state changes. It was the city’s first video conferencing meeting.
Owners will no longer be required to reside in the homes to which they add ADU’s, and instead of one unit, homeowners and multi-family dwellings got more leeway for additional spaces and other provisions, according to Planning Manager Scott Hutter.

The area is already dense, said Goedhart, “and this is just going to create more density and change the character of neighborhoods.”

Goedhart said he hoped the state would “reconsider” the changes after the pandemic.
The city also learned that both its operating funds and reserve funds were in good shape, despite what is expected to an overall loss of between $400-500,000 during the pandemic.
More than half of that amount, however, was a $280,000 transfer from the city to its emergency fund, as required by ordinance.

The city, in 2017, instituted a local ordinance that has produced a strong reserve fund (see related story). La Palma’s current funds include a general fund balance of $1.5 million, an emergency reserve balance of $5.8 million and a capital operating budget of $6.8 million, giving them more than $14 million on hand, city officials were told.
Given the circumstances, city manager Conal McNamara said the city would be introducing a “status quo” budget of $11.3 million for fiscal year 2020-21.

McNamara said the staff was able to make some modest reductions in the proposed budget, but added they “will have no impact on city services.”

Things got a bit heated when consultants asked the council for direction regarding a $40,000 budget entry for next year to host a “Festival of Nations” event. The event has already been pushed to 2021 because of the pandemic.

Goedhart wanted the item out, saying that if things improve, it could be added back in next year. Other members were seemingly ok with that recommendation until Mayor Peter Kim asked the council to leave the item in the budget.

He said there will be an October budget review and, if things don’t improve by then, it can always be taken out then.

Goedhart objected, saying he was “looking to be as prudent as I can,” durig the pandemic.
Nevertheless, the council ultimately voted 4-1 to leave the item in next year’s budget and revisit it in October.

In other action, the council;
• Heard new Orange County Fire Authority Division Chief Mike Petro say “I look forward to my new role as your division chief,” and he said he also hoped the reopening of Orange County happened “at appropriate, but rapid pace so we can meet face to face.”
• Voted to continue its emergency declaration which was passed on March 17 for 60 days. It was extended for another 60 days.
• Passed an ordinance allowing the countil more flexibility in council meeting times if required by the pandemic emergency.

Sen. Umberg announces legislation for voting rights

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Sen. Umberg announces legislation for voting rights

Senator Thomas J. Umberg (D – Orange County), Chair of the Senate Committee on Elections and Constitutional Amendments, and Assemblymember Marc Berman (D-Menlo Park), Chair of the Assembly Committee on Elections and Redistricting, have announced legislation to protect public health and voting rights amid concerns regarding the COVID-19 pandemic before the 2020 General Election.

In a letter to Governor Gavin Newsom, Senator Umberg and Assemblymember Berman expressed their concern over short- and long-term impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic will have on the November 2020 election. In their letter, they announced their legislative package to protect public health while safeguarding important and long-held voting rights. Namely, the letter and the accompanying legislation stipulate that the state must send a mail ballot to every registered voter, and that in-person voting options continue to be accessible to voters.

Expanded access to vote-by-mail is a critical component of any plan to address the crisis, but California must also make every effort to continue to offer meaningful access to in-person voting polling locations that are safe and sanitary for poll workers and voters alike. The letter also calls on the Governor to issue an executive order to require that all voters be mailed a ballot for the November election. Such an order will signal to counties that they should begin procurement of equipment and materials to allow for every registered voter in California to receive a mail ballot until that requirement can be formalized through the adoption of legislation.

Assembly Bill 860 (AB 860), by Assemblymember Berman would require that every registered California voter receive a vote by mail ballot for this November’s presidential general election. In-person voting opportunities would remain available for voters in a manner that is consistent with the need to protect the health and safety of voters and election workers.

“No Californian should have to choose between protecting their health and safety and participating in our democracy, particularly when doing so can be easily avoided,” said Assemblymember Berman. “AB 860 strikes the appropriate balance between allowing Californians to vote from the safety of their own homes, and ensuring that those who wish to vote in person still have the ability to do so.”

Senate Bill 423 (SB 423) by Senator Umberg would require county elections officials to establish and maintain a minimum number of polling places and vote centers for the statewide general election to be held on November 3, 2020. Safe and accessible polling places are critical in ensuring voter rights are protected for all Californians. For many voters, the services they need to vote privately and independently are available at polling sites.

“Voters will need safe and healthy in-person voting options this November,” said Senator Umberg. “While it is critical that voters in California are afforded every opportunity to receive a mail ballot, there still must be reliably sanitary, in-person voting locations available to provide access to valuable services like Election-Day registration, language assistance with ballots, disability assistance with voting, and more.”

Advocacy groups from across the state applauded the call for a comprehensive plan for safe and fair election. In calling for the November election to be safe, fair, and inclusive of all voters, the following groups are joining forces: Black Women for Wellness, Brennan Center for Justice, California Calls, California Donor Table, California Environmental Justice Alliance, California Labor Federation, California League of Conservation Voters, Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice, CHIRLA, Consumer Attorneys of California, Inland Empire United, NARAL Pro-Choice California, Power California and SEIU.

Los Alamitos Medical Center encourages community to seek emergency treatment

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Los Alamitos Medical Center encourages community to seek emergency treatment

Now that our communities are slowly reopening, hospitals are urging patients to continue to seek care if a health emergency occurs.

While Los Alamitos Medical Center never stopped treating emergency cases, many residents chose to defer emergencies during the crisis, rather than have them treated, said Chief Operating Officer Hong Min.

“We don’t want people pushing back their medical emergencies, as this can have dire consequences,” said Min. As the coronavirus crisis eases, he said the hospital is reaching out to the community to let them know emergency and serious medical surgeries should be treated, he added.

According to Min, Los Al Medical had carefully prepared for a large influx of COVID-19 cases.

Min said the administration met with the hospital’s medical committee to develop a safe pathway for treating emergencies in the community. “We are in lockstep with medical staff and physicians,” said Min.

The situation during the crisis at Los Alamitos Medical has been different than other hospitals around the nation, said Min. Most notably, there has not been a large influx of patients as seen in other parts of the country, nor has the hospital suffered any shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE).

As always, he said any potential COVID cases will be isolated from other patients, said Min, noting the hospital is keeping all patients, and its staff, safe.
“We’re reaching out to let people know it is safe to come in for emergency treatment,” said Min.

Morale at the hospital has been incredibly positive, said Min, even though it has been a “hard time to be in healthcare.”

“We’ve seen a tremendous show of support from the community, including donations of face shields, food donations, thank you cards, photos, etc. “Those things do matter,” said Min.

Editor’s note: Hong Min’s name appeared incorrectly in last week’s edition. We regret the error.

Governor Newsom extends tax filing deadline

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Governor Newsom extends tax filing deadline

Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an Executive Order extending the tax filing deadline for Business Personal Property Tax Statements from tomorrow, May 7, 2020 to May 31, 2020, to avoid penalties.

The Governor also signed an executive order that waives penalties for property taxes paid after April 10 for taxpayers who demonstrate they have experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic through May 6, 2021. This will apply to residential properties and small businesses.

The first Executive Order will extend the deadline for certain businesses to file Business Personal Property Statements from tomorrow to May 31, 2020, to avoid penalties.
California business property taxpayers are required to report their taxable business personal property with a combined value of $100,000 or more to their county assessors annually. Businesses faced a 10% penalty if they were unable to file by this Thursday’s May 7 deadline.

Business Personal Property includes business equipment, supplies, leasehold improvements, and tangible assets like printers, copiers, furniture, manufacturing, and lab and restaurant equipment, but not real property.

State Board of Equalization (BOE) Chairman Antonio Vazquez and Vice Chair Mike Schaefer have worked collaboratively with the Governor’s Office over the last month to obtain relief for business personal property taxpayers whose businesses have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Governor Newsom said, “The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the lives and livelihoods of many, and as we look toward opening our local communities and economies, we want to make sure that those that have been most impacted have the ability to get back on their feet.”

“I appreciate that the Governor took the time to listen to our concerns on behalf of business personal property taxpayers and take much-needed action to assist them during this difficult time,” Chairman Antonio Vazquez stated.

“I want to thank BOE Vice Chair Mike Schaefer, for joining me in working with the Governor’s Office to find a solution and extend the May 7 deadline for Business Personal Property Tax Statements to help taxpayers,” he added.

State Board of Equalization Vice Chair Mike Schaefer said, “In these times of unprecedented hardship for Californians, the Board of Equalization is determined to do everything in our power to ease the burden of COVID-19 on taxpayers.”

“I commend Governor Newsom’s timely and thoughtful action to extend the filing date to May 31, and thereby diminish the burden of COVID-19 on California small businesses and taxpayers,” he added.

Taxpayers should contact their State Board of Equalization Member (boe.ca.gov) or their local Assessor for more information.

The five-member California State Board of Equalization (BOE) is the nation’s only directly elected tax board that serves the public through fair, efficient, and uniform tax administration of property taxes.

AUHSD to open Cambridge Virtual Academy

David N. Young
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AUHSD to open Cambridge Virtual Academy

The Anaheim Union High School District has announced it will be opening Cambridge Virtual Academy starting in the 2020-2021 school year. AUHSD plans to create a premiere online education inspired by AUHSD’s Oxford Academy, the #1 ranked school in Orange County and the #2 ranked school in California.

The new academy will be available to 7th-12th grade students and will include access to the following:
• Award-Winning/Experienced Online Teachers
• Internships with Globally Recognized Businesses via AUHSD’s AIME (Anaheim Innovative Mentoring Experience) program
• Dual Enrollment Courses Aligned to Exclusive Career Pathways
• Transfer Admissions Guarantee to UCI via the Anaheim Union Educational Pledge
• Social/Emotional Support and Resources
• Tuition Free Opportunity for All Students (Inside and Outside the Anaheim Union High School District)

Upon the launching of Cambridge Virtual Academy, Anaheim Union High School Superintendent Michael Matsuda stated, “CVA will help young people find their passion and build life skills through communication, collaboration, critical thinking, creativity, and compassion.

CVA will build leaders.” In addition, he emphasized that for nearly a decade, AUHSD has delivered a renowned eLearning program to thousands of students by highly trained teachers who have demonstrated exemplary practice in the National Standards for Quality Online Teaching. These teachers are extremely dedicated and have proven experience engaging students academically and socially through an online platform.

Finally, by enrolling in AUHSD, Cambridge Virtual Academy Students would have access to the Anaheim Union Educational Pledge, the most comprehensive collaboration in the state between a high school district, community colleges, CSUF and UCI. Through the Pledge, CVA students would have exclusive support leading to guaranteed admission and transfer to UC Irvine.

Finally, Cambridge Virtual Academy students would also be eligible for the nationally acclaimed AIME (Anaheim Innovative Mentoring Experience) program, which comprises over 70 corporate and non-profit partners from 17 cities and two states which provide mentorships and internships to over 1,500 students from throughout the district.
There will be a limited number of spaces available for CVA. Families can learn more about Cambridge Virtual Academy and apply at: cambridge.auhsd.us

The Anaheim Union High School District serves approximately 30,000 students in the communities of Anaheim, Cypress, Buena Park, La Palma, and Stanton. For more information about AUHSD visit our website, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Festival of Arts cancels fine art show and Pageant of the Masters 2020

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Festival of Arts cancels fine art show and Pageant of the Masters 2020

The iconic Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach has officially announced the cancellation of both the Fine Art Show and Pageant of the Masters for its upcoming 2020 summer season.

This decision comes amid official stay-at-home and social distancing orders, and Governor Newsom’s announcement of a phased reopening plan for California. Per state, federal, and local guidelines surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic the likelihood of mass gatherings this summer, such as the crowds attracted to the Festival of Arts each year, is not plausible.

“We were hopeful and tried our best to open our doors this summer, but sadly our shows have become another victim of COVID-19,” said David Perry, Festival of Arts Board President. “The decision to cancel our shows was not taken lightly. But given these unprecedented times, we believe it is the right thing to do.”

The Pageant of the Masters’ highly anticipated performance of “Made in America” has been postponed to the summer of 2021, with dates and details still to be announced. Artists juried into the 2020 Festival of Arts Fine Art Show will be guaranteed a spot in the 2021 exhibit. The Festival of Arts team is exploring the possibility of a virtual art exhibit that could be available later this summer, as well as other art initiatives. Details will be announced on the Festival’s website (www.foapom.com) and on social media when available.

The 2020 Pageant ticket holders will be contacted by email regarding ticket cancellation options. Anyone who donates their tickets back to the organization may not only be eligible for a tax benefit, but will also be automatically entered into a drawing for a walk-on role in the 2021 Pageant. The drawing will be held on September 4, 2020; ten winners will be selected. More information can be found at: www.foapom.com/covid19.

To support the Festival of Arts, learn more information and stay up to date, please visit www.foapom.com/supportnow.
The Festival of Arts, a non-profit 501(c)(3), has long been a local leader that has helped with the growth and development of the community and the arts in Laguna Beach.

Established in 1932, the Festival of Arts’ mission is to promote, produce and sponsor events and activities that encourage the appreciation, study and performance of the arts. Each summer for over 85 years, the Festival of Arts has produced two world-class events: The Festival of Arts Fine Art Show and the Pageant of the Masters. Together both shows attract more than 225,000 visitors into Laguna Beach annually.

Celebrate your 2020 Graduate in the Event News Enterprise.

David N. Young
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Celebrate your 2020 Graduate in the Event News Enterprise.

For more info, please call Bryce Malavasi   – 562-251-6626

COVID to leave long trail of red ink, Cypress council told

David N. Young
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COVID to leave long trail of red ink, Cypress council told

While the city of Cypress is much better off financially than many local governments, a finance official on Monday nevertheless advised the city council that the coronavirus crisis will leave a long trail of red ink in its wake.

“You can expect difficult budget decisions for the foreseeable future,” said Matt Burton, Director of Finance and Administration.

Burton told the Council two weeks ago that a large surplus would likely absorb most of the pandemic’s losses for the current fiscal year. “There have been no major developments since that time,” said Burton, that would indicate otherwise.
Nevertheless, down the road, he said, there will be “budget impacts for several years to come.”

Burton said the city will present a balanced budget for next year, yet it is likely the city will have to dip into a healthly reserve fund to do it.

A survey by the California League of Cities indicates that local governments across the state could lose more than $7 billion in projected revenue because of the impact of the virus, said Burton. Accordingly, he said, budgets across the state will have to be cut from 5 to 20 percent to remain balanced.

Cypress, said Burton, “is in the middle of that range.” “Further losses will continue,” he noted, if the stay-at-home order is extended.
City council member Jon Peat wanted to know if city staffers were working on plans to reopen the city beginning May 1. “Many people are opening cities around the county,” said Peat.

City Manager Peter Grant advised council member Peat that the city has no expressed authority to open the city on their own. “Without a change from state, the city does not have the option or authority to begin reopening,” said Grant.

Conversations were happening at the staff level, said Grant, and who suggested that soon “you can expect to see more focused and serious conversations and how and when”(See Gov. Newsom’s plan, page 12).

Police Chief Rod Cox said the city has established a special email (do***@*******ca.org) address for citizens within the city wanting to request a drive-by for special occasions. He said the police force was getting so many requests that they will now be coordinated by the community outreach officer.

It was the first time the city met using a video conferencing program. Alisha Farnell, city clerk, said it offers a “better option” for citizens who wish to participate. The city had been meeting by telephone conference call since the coronavirus lockdown began.

Farnell said online citizen engagement with city hall during the crisis has been extraordinarily high, much higher than normal. “They are listening,” she said, adding that city staff was doing everything possible to safely respond to records requests and other citizen needs.

In other action, the Cypress council:
• Heard Grant respond to a question from Mayor Rob Johnson noting that authorities had to “tactically enforce” social distancing guidelines at one local business that was “excessively flaunting” them. He said all such complaints,however, should be directed to the OC Healthcare Agency, not the city.
• Heard Recreation and Community Services Director Cameron Harding saw all summer events, as of now, were scheduled to continue. He said another assessment would be made at the end of the month. He said the Salute to America event could be moved to later in the year.
• Community Development Director Doug Dancs said the department was in full operation, though remotely, saying 60 permits were issued, 170 inspections completed, and park restroom projects were complete. He told Council member Stacy Berry that he would doublecheck to ensure the city’s waste pickup effort was being performed in compliance with pandemic guidelines.

Los Al Medical Center slowly, safety reopening for non COVID patients

David N. Young
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Los Al Medical Center slowly, safety reopening for non COVID patients

The Chief Operating Officer of the Los Alamitos Medical Center said this week the hospital has prepared to “slowly and safely” reopen its doors to treat medical emergencies other than COVID-19

“We’ve been meeting with medical staff and physicians to reach a consensus,” said Hong Min, Chief Operating Officer, “and we have created a safe pathway for the many deferred cases” to resume.

While the hospital has treated COVID-19 patients since the crisis began, Los Alamitos Medical has not seen any of the overflow conditions seen in the media in other states.

Min said the hospital’s management has been working with its medical executive committee, doctors and staff to “develop the safety protocols” to slowly reopen.

“Obviously, we want to keep our patients safe and keep our staff safe as well,” he said.
Despite the treatment of COVID patients throughout the crisis, Min said the hospital has fortunately never faced any protective wear problems like many other institutions around the country.

“We have always had enough Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) so that’s not been an issue for us,” said Min.

While the hospital was expected to begin accepting patients with serious medical conditions other than COVID on Monday, Min was emphatic that Los Al Medical was “not 100 percent open for business.”

Elective surgeries are still not being performed, hospital officials said.

Min acknowledged that the hospital’s overall census had “dramatically” declined since the outbreak began. Tenet Healthcare has received financial aid from the stimulus package which he said “has helped” the hospital system cope with the crisis, he said.

Now, however, he said the hospital must eventually return to normal while taking every precaution to do so. Min said Los Al Medicali is inviting patients to return for emergency and other serious procedures that have been delayed because of the pandemic.

For the most part, Min said Los Al Medical was prepared for a large influx of COVID-19 patients that never fully materialized,. He attributed recent increases in the number of Orange County positive cases, was due to increased testing.

He acknowledged, however, that there are “still several unknowns out there” and the hospital stands ready.

Min said the medical staff has adopted strict protocols that will keep incoming surgeries away from any COVID patients. The staff, meanwhile, is continuously disinfecting every surface in the hospital.

“You can only put off care for so long,” said Min, adding it was time to begin allowing the most serious patients in the area to “come back to the hospital.”

Though it’s been “a very scary time to be in healthcare,” said Min, the hospital and its medical staff has received extraordinary support from the community during the outbreak.
Min said the physicians, nurses, and staff all chose healthcare because they “chose the field of medicine to treat disease and help people.” “This is our time,” he said.

Sara Safari, climber, activist, says America will conquer it’s biggest challenge to date

David N. Young
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Sara Safari, climber, activist, says America will conquer it’s biggest challenge to date

A courageous young woman from Orange County who has risked the climb of mount Everest, said this week that she realizes her country now faces an uphill climb from a pathogenic pandemic that is higher than any mountain she’s ever climbed.

Sara Safari, a college professor from Irvine, was scheduled to speak in Los Alamitos last month. She was set to appear with Los Alamitos’ social entrepreneur Jessica Ridgeway of African Sisterhood, before their event was sidetracked by the pandemic.

As a young girl, Sara endured the hardships of oppression in Iran, enabling her as an adult immigrant to the United States to use freedom to vault herself into one of the most promising motivational speakers in the world.

“When you climb a mountain, the mountaineers can be from different countries,” she said. “they may speak different languages, have different ethnic backgrounds, and we all get attached to the same safety rope.” It’s much like the situation Americans find themselves in today, Safari said.

“If one person’s life falls in danger, everyone on that rope faces danger as well,” she said.
“We are now in circumstances where we should, with our collective might, realize that we are all connected and we should work with each other so we can all reach the summit together.”

Sara Safari

Growing up in Iran, Safari said she “had experienced firsthand the oppressive, restrictive environment that makes gender discrimination possible.” She often speaks about and raises money for victims of human trafficking in Nepal.
Safari emigrated to the United States from Iran in 2002. She received her degree in electrical engineering from UCLA before going to work for a large company, after which she became “utterly miserable.”

“One day at a seminar, a speaker suggested we think of a project that seemed impossible, and to commit to doing it,” said Safari. “Someone behind me whispered something about trekking to the Mount Everest base camp and before I knew it, I shouted out, ‘I am going to climb Mount Everest.’”

“I was a typical California girl who had never slept in a tent before and hated cold weather,” she said. But Safari had committed herself to climbing the Everest and she was going to do it.

To date, Safari has climbed to sit atop six of the ‘Seven Summits’, the highest peaks on the seven continents with and she did this all raising awareness and funds for organizations that empower women around the world. The only remaining summit, Mount Everest’s ascend getting interrupted by Nepal’s 7.8 magnitude earthquake as Safari was climbing a ladder on an ice wall.

Speaker, climber, activist, Sara Safari, of Orange County.

“The mountain and the ladder began to shake violently. The entire earth was shaking underneath us,” she said, noting that over 9,000 people were killed in surrounding towns and villages.

“I clung to the ladder as car-sized chunks of ice started toppling down around me. I was sure it was only a matter of time before one struck me.”
Safari struggled to breathe as she “began to choke on thick clouds of snow.” Unsure of her fate, Safari made it up the ladder to be eventually saved, along with her team, by the Nepalese helicopter rescuers.

“The defining moments along my journey thus far have caused me not to retreat, but instead, inspired me to expand my ultimate goal,” Safari said.

In her TEDx talk, Safari told her audience that her Everest adventure “has a kernel of truth for everyone. There are so many things that all of us are capable of.” Yet, despite that potential, she said, so many of us, are afraid to act unless we are coaxed out of our comfort zones to try something new and different.

“Currently, our country is in crisis. Not only our country, but people all over the world are dealing with similarly difficult times. In a crisis, the part of our brain that deals with our primary needs becomes active, and although we humans are social creatures, at these times all of our immediate focus is on our individual needs and we forget that we live in a society, and that only through cooperation, and properly helping and informing each other, we can be successful together, make progress and reach our goals.”

Safari added “Our current social isolation reminds me of the time I was stuck in a small tent during a storm on the mountain. It’s hard at first, but then you learn to adapt and wait for the storm to pass. If we focus on the blessings we have rather than what we don’t have, life becomes much better. So let’s promise ourselves to stay strong and keep hopeful.”

“Right now, we are climbing a different king of mountain, that of health and safety for the world.” said Safari. “It sounds like a huge mountain, higher than the highest peaks, but I know we can climb it, together, step by step.”

Safari is a professor teaching leadership at UCI, she is a public speaker, a published writer, an activist promoting women’s empowerment, and of course, always ready to climp a new mountain.

LAUSD adopts new map for district voting

For Event-News Enterprise
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LAUSD adopts new map for district voting

Los Alamitos Unified School District has moved away from its at-large voting system to one based on five trustee areas. The Orange County Committee on School District Organization and the State Board of Education both recently gave final approval to the adoption of the trustee-area voting system, which will be in effect for school board elections in November.

Under the new system, a voter will select one trustee to represent their area of the school district. The change in the election system will have no effect on school attendance boundaries.

The Board of Education acted because the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) strongly discourages at-large voting and highly encourages area-based voting as a means of ensuring that minority group voting rights in a community are protected and not abridged or diluted. Most California cities, school districts and public agencies have converted, or are in the process of converting, to trustee area-based voting. Some school districts and public agencies have been sued for not shifting away from at-large voting. In each case, the public agency has lost and been forced to pay steep legal costs with money that otherwise would support students and instruction.

To make the change, the Board of Education last August hired a professional demographics firm that drafted 11 maps of possible voting areas that met legal criteria. The Board then conducted an exhaustive effort to communicate with residents about the process and solicit public input on the voting area maps.

“The involvement of our entire community was incredible!” said Los Alamitos Unified Board of Education President Meg Cutuli. “Hearing from our residents influenced the Board’s decision. Instead of breaking our district into small isolated sections, it was everyone’s goal that we would continue to work as a unified district where kids come first.”

After holding 36 hearings and public outreach meetings throughout the District, the Board unanimously adopted the Green 4 map, which includes a majority non-white trustee area (Area 1) in the northeast part of the District and divides Leisure World between four voting areas. The map spreads district schools across the voting areas: Rossmoor and Hopkinson Elementary are in Area 3; Lee, Weaver and Oak Middle School are in Area 2; Los Alamitos Elementary, Los Alamitos High and McAuliffe Middle School are in Area 1; and McGaugh Elementary is in Area 5.

Board member Marlys Davidson resides in Area 1; David Boyer and Diana Hill reside in Area 3; Board President Meg Cutuli and Karen Russell reside in Area 5; and no members live in areas 2 or 4.

School board elections will be held in November for voting areas 2, 4, and 5. Elections for areas 1 and 3 will be held in 2022.

Complete information about the process of adopting the new electoral system can be found at the District website https://www.losal.org/voting.

Los Alamitos planning a ‘soft’ reopen soon

David N. Young
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Los Alamitos planning a ‘soft’ reopen soon

The city of Los Alamitos, along with the rest of the state, begins a soft reopening soon, but the mayor says the city will adhere to all state and local guidelines.

“The people have had enough,” said Mayor Richard D. Murphy on Tuesday, acknowledging that city leaders are under some pressure to reopen the city from a frustrated public.

Most of the pressure, said Murphy, appears to be coming from businesses and individuals involved in the Phase III of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s reopening plan.

“The hairdressers, barbers, nail salons; people that come into closest contact with other people say they need to get back to work,” said Murphy.

Nevertheless, he said the city has no authority to violate the governor’s executive order, which he said is considered a law. He said the city must, and will, adhere to state and county guidelines during its reopening.

“We don’t want to be in violation of state law,” said Murphy, noting that businesses who are included in Phase III who prematurely try to open in Los Alamitos will be visited by police and asked to comply.

“As much as we understand their concerns, we have to stay in compliance,” he said.
Meanwhile, deaths in Orange County are spiking amid a case count that continues to rise, especially in Los Alamitos.

The city did not appear on the OC list until three weeks ago and, as of Tuesday, 31 cases have already been reported.

Cypress is reporting 44 cases and La Palma remains at 14.

Murphy said city emergency response officials believe the spike is related to a COVID-19 outbreak in a local nursing home, where staff and patients have been affected.

Seniors learn LAUSD still planning a graduation ceremony

David N. Young
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Seniors learn LAUSD still planning a graduation ceremony

Seniors in the Los Alamitos High School Class of 2020 will have a graduation ceremony, Supt. Andrew Pulver told the Board of Education this week.

Also, a number of activities were scheduled for the Class of 2020 this week, including the distribution of unique yard signs that were given to hundreds of seniors on Friday.

Several hundred cars passed through the school’s parking lot Friday morning, as the parade of seniors were said to be a very happy one as seniors saw manyteachers and each other administrators, even from a distance.

Pulver said the system was looking at three potential dates for graduation ceremonies, including July 25, August 7 or sometime around the Thanksgiving holiday if neither of the earlier options work out (July 27/28).

Pulver said the venue will either be Cerritos College or Vets Stadium, “pending social distancing guidelines and venue availability.”

According to a memo being distributed by the high school, there will be a “virtual wall” established on the gym wall May 20. The seniors will get their yearbooks and their caps and gowns also on May 20, and even a prom is tentatively scheduled for July 18 (at the same venue) from 8 p.m. until midnight.

Promotions were also scheduled for middle and elementary schools. Here are the prospective dates parents were asked to hold:
• July 23, McAuliffe Middle promotion ceremony @7 p.m.
• July 24, Oak Middle School promotion ceremony @7 p.m.
• July 31, Elementary promotion ceremony @ 9 a.m.
• August 31, McAuliffe promotion ceremony @ 9 a.m.
• August 31, Oak Middle school, promotion ceremony @ 7 p.m.

Los Al grad thrust onto national stage as American Idol finalist

David N. Young
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Los Al grad thrust onto national stage as American Idol finalist

The granddaughter of the man instrumental in establishing the now-famous (and much recognized) Los Alamitos jazz program is now among 10 finalists competing in the American Idol singing competition.

Sophia Wackerman, who has since adopted the stage name Sophia James (honoring her brother James), was named on Sunday as one of the Top 10 finalists competing in the  ABC network’s televised talent contest.

Earlier in the week, Sophia was recognized by the Los Alamitos Unified School Board at their regular meeting.

Man Americans voted for Sophia James

“I personally think she’s doing a phenomenal job,” said Megan Cutuli, Board President.

Supt. Andrew Pulver, suggesting another historic music success in the making for Los Alamitos, recognized Sophia during his Superintendent’s Report.

Pulver even presented a brief video to the board (and to those watching the meeting on Zoom) which highlighted her Idol journey, including portions of her performances thus far on the show.

In the video, Sophia listens as singer Katy Perry, one of the Idol judges, suggested changing her name to Sophia Star, honoring her late mother, Naomi Star. Star was once a backup singer for Belinda Carlisle.

Sophia’s dad was a drummer for Frank Zappa, James Taylor and other top rock groups during the heyday of rock and roll so she grew up around music.

“You can never be too proud of our Griffin graduates,” said Pulver. “We are elated and wish Sophia much luck on her journey,” he added.

While attending Los Al High School, Sophia was a member of the National Grand Champion Los Al Choir.

Sophia’s grandfather, Chuck Wackerman, said Pulver, has been a part of the Los Alamitos Unified Family for nearly 50 years.

The elder Wackerman taught elementary, junior high and high school band, as he directed orchestra and jazz bands in the Seal Beach and Los Alamitos school districts. For nine years, Sophia’s grandad directed the jazz combos for the Orange County High School for the Arts. At both the middle and high school levels, he has developed award winning jazz ensembles and programs, said Pulver.

Sophia, who graduated from Los Al High in 2018, is now attending UCLA and will continue her competitive journey on the show later this week.

“We are just really pleased to be able to celebrate her success as well,” said Supt. Pulver.

Los Al maintains a “Hall of Fame” of distinguished alumni that dates back to the 1970’s. For instance, it’s 1971 graduate Cathy Rigby (McCoy) became a celebrated Olympic gymnast. She is among many of its celebrated alumni have risen to fame and top levels of their professions.

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