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St. Anthony Boys secure place in CIF prelims

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St. Anthony Boys secure place in CIF prelims

For the St. Anthony High School boy’s cross-country team, it was definitely a season that kept everyone guessing about the final outcome. The league opener saw the St. Anthony boys finish in second place and the team’s top runner, Los Alamitos resident, Alexander Born, finish the race in second Place.

However, due to injury, the team dropped down to last place at the second league meet, but with Born still managing a second-place individual finish. It was a toss-up as to how the boys would perform at league finals.

St. Anthony boys Varsity from left to right: Sullivan Jackson, Adrian Marquez, Alexander Born, Tyler Segar, Jacob Martinez, and Blake Allen.

Now with only 6 of 7 varsity runners competing, St. Anthony overcame adversity, dug deep, and finished in third place at the Camino del Rey league finals, thus securing their place at CIF Southern Section Preliminaries. Also, two boys from the Saints made the All-League Championship Team.

They are Alexander Born in thirrd place and Sullivan Jackson in 10th place. The very consistent girls team came in second place at League Finals and had three athletes named to All-League. They are Leeta Squier in fourth place, Tatiana Fernandez in fifth place, and Leigh Anderson in eighth place.

St. Anthony made their appearance at the CIF Southern Section Preliminaries Nov. 16. Both the boys and girl’s teams made their appearance at CIF Southern Section Preliminaries. Both teams ran their hardest with the boys finishing in 17th place (Div. 5, Heat 3) and the girl’s team, led by sophomore Leeta Squier, finishing in 16th place (Div. 5, Heat 2). Even though the cross-country season is now over for them, many of the athletes have caught the running “bug” and will be joining the St. Anthony track and field team to compete and to continue the camaraderie. Both cross country and track and field are coached by Ericka Brooks.

Courtesy photos

 

Marine 1st Sgt. Sean M. Fagan praised for career of service

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Marine 1st Sgt. Sean M. Fagan praised for career of service

Marine 1st Sgt. Sean Fagan, a Los Alamitos High graduate and decorated veteran of three combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, was honored for his service as an American Hero 2019 by the Los Alamitos Unified School Board.

Board member Marlys Davidson, who has known Fagan most of his life, said he “epitomizes courage and service to his nation. Since his days as a student here in Los Alamitos, he always been a person of character, compassion and integrity.”

Davidson described Fagan, who grew up in Los Alamitos,  as a young man “who could have done anything he wanted in the world. He chose to serve his country put himself in danger and keep us safe.”

Fagan graduated from Los Alamitos High in 2001 and enlisted in the Marines. After one tour of duty in Iraq, he joined the Marine Reserves and served two additional combat tours in Afghanistan.

Fagan now works as a firefighter paramedic for the Long Beach Fire Department and recently spent three weeks fighting wildfires in Northern California. Fagan also serves as a Marine Reserve advisor to the Company D 4th Tank Battalion at the Twentynine Palms Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center.

Fagan thanked the Board for the American Hero honor, saying “it’s our pleasure to serve.”

He also made a point of thanking his wife, Sarah, for her strength and support in raising their three children during his deployment absences. “Five weeks after we were married, I was in Afghanistan,” he said. He missed the birth of his sons but was able to witness the birth of his daughter via FaceTime.

“I owe everything to her,” he said of his wife.

Board President Diana Hill said she is grateful “for Los Al grads like you who go out in the world and make a huge difference. Thank you very much for coming back and continuing to give and share in this community with all you do.”

Courtesy photo

 

American Legion Post 716 celebrates 100th Anniversary of organization

David N. Young
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American Legion Post 716 celebrates 100th Anniversary of organization

With burgers and hot dogs on the grill, members and supporters of Los Alamitos American Legion Post 716 gathered on Veterans Day to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the founding of the international organization.

The American Legion, with more than 3 million members (inclusive of their family of organizations) does an incredible amount of good in the world, said Ernie Rodriguez, the current Vice-Commander and who has served four times as Commander of the local post.

“The Legion was founded in Paris, France in March of 1919,” said Rodriguez, adding that nonprofit organization was initially started by American serving in World War I.

Ironically, a member of the American Legion Post 1, based in Paris, attended Monday’s event in Los Alamitos.

Gift from Marcey Garcia

Moreover, Rodriguez said Congress recently passed the American Legion Act, which relaxes an earlier rule that prevented veterans who did not serve in a theater of war from joining. Now, he said to loud applause, any veteran, “who signed a blank check,” that could have included their lives, can now become a member.

There are more than 13,000 American Legion Posts around the world.

Over the years, Rodriguez told the members, the American Legion has been responsible for creating some of the major institutional benefits for those who serve, including the creation of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, creation of the U.S. Flag Code and even the so-called G.I. Bill, which has extended service and post service educational opportunities for millions of service members.

Recreation of the original dedication of Post 716 building of Florista Street

Further, Rodriguez said the Legion, and its extended family, donates more than 3.7 million hours of volunteer service in their communities, raises more than $4 million annually for scholarships and they donate more than 80,000 pints of blood each year. “By far, the largest single donor anywhere,” he said.

Before introducing current Commander Vincent “Woody” Collins, Rodriguez introduced several former Commanders who had returned to be present at the Centennial ceremonies.

“I never looked to have this position,” said Collins, but since taking it, he marveled at “just how unbelievable” the Legion was on a day-to-day basis. “To see how closely everyone works together, the Legion, the Auxiliary, the Sons and the Legion Riders,” said Collins, “it’s just such a great organization.” He thanked everyone for coming.

The original building dedication from The News Enterprise, published back in 1962.

Deborah Driscoll, President of the American Legion Auxiliary, said the legion has been putting together the Centennial celebration for more than a year. “We are celebrating the fact that this organization is now 100-years-old and that we all have the opportunity to be here today,” she added.

Driscoll also thanked the members for tolerating her obsession with re-creating the photo of the dedication of the Los Alamitos Post in 1962, nearly 60 years ago.

Rodriguez said the Los Alamitos post was created in June, 1947 on “Faye Ellis’ porch. The actual post was organization and accepted by the American Legion in 1948. The post eventually acquired land near the intersection of Florista and Oak Streets and the building was dedicated in Nov. of 1962, 58 years ago.

Driscoll stage managed attending members and leaders as chairs were placed outside the building in the exact configuration seen in a News Enterprise photo as the post recreated the original photo as they rededicated the post.

The Auxiliary president also introduced member Marcey Garcia, who created a large wooden flag, painted red, white and blue and covered with more than 900 toy soldiers, which had been also painted and glued in place to create the three-dimensional flag.

Garcia, who is the daughter of a Legionnaire, said she saw a flag similar to it and dedicated herself to create one for the post. She also created a plaque to hang below it which simply said: “For those who serve, for those who have served and for those who have given their all.”

Supt. Pulver reassures parents of school safety efforts

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Supt. Pulver reassures parents of school safety efforts

In the wake of a school shooting in Santa Clarita that left two students dead, Los Alamitos Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Andrew Pulver issued a statement to the greater district family to reassure them “our top priority is and always will be the safety of students.”

Pulver issued and distributed the statement Friday.

“As you know, there was another school shooting yesterday at Saugus High School. We grieve with the families and friends of those whose lives were taken and injured,” he began. He continued that “I am sure you all will join me in expressing our admiration and gratitude to the police officers and first responders who intervened and helped the school community.”

In the letter, Pulver said school district officials will “continue to strategize with our law enforcement partners to ensure we are taking any and all steps to keep our campuses safe.”

He said that in California, every public school is required by law to update their Comprehensive Safe School Plans with detailed responses to various scenarios.

“We have several District Administrators dedicated to overseeing and providing support to all of our school sites to promote and ensure both the physical safety and mental health of all students,” said Pulver.

Further, he said, “we are also extremely fortunate to work closely with the Los Alamitos Police Department, the Seal Beach Police Department, and the Orange County Sheriff, who have helped us develop our plans and collaborate frequently on all matters of school safety.”

In addition, the LAUSD Superintended informed the parents that Los Alamitos High School has a dedicated School Resource Officer staffed by the Los Alamitos Police Department who is present on campus and enhances our campus safety.

In addition, he said, every staff member has received comprehensive safety training that includes explicit measures for how to respond during a violent intruder threat and we continue to offer these trainings each year.

According to Pulver, “our mental health and counseling staff intervene on behalf of students and provide support, counseling and services to students in need.”

“I want to thank each of you for all you do to support these efforts.  If you and/or your student would like any additional support, please contact your site principal,” Pulver concluded.

Pulver signed the note “on behalf of the Board of Education, Diana Hill, Dave Boyer, Meg Cutuli, Marlys Davidson and Karen Russell, I know you join us in sending our condolences to all of those effected by this national tragedy.”

Toy Drive Donations Being Accepted

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Toy Drive Donations Being Accepted

The City of Los Alamitos in partnership with Southland Credit Union invite you to make a difference in a child’s life this holiday season by participating in the Toy Drive.

Drop off location is at the Los Alamitos Community Center located at 10911 Oak Street. Donations will be distributed to Los Alamitos nonprofit organizations who benefit local families in need.

All new and unwrapped toys will be accepted until Dec. 6, 2019 at the Community Center or at the Winter Wonderland event on Dec. 7 at the city’s Information Booth. For more information, please call (562) 430-1073.

Adopt-a-military family effort underway

David N. Young
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Adopt-a-military family effort underway

The Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos is holding their annual “Adopt-a-military family” for Christmas campaign, according to a statement distributed this week.

According to the statement, there are many “needy” military families on the local base and they need help from the community to provide their families with a Christmas this year.

If anyone is interesting in “adopting” one or more families, please reply to the Los Al Chamber at info@losalchamber.org or to the base contact conceptionmesta@gmail.com.

Persons adopting a military family will be asked to drop off packages at Joint Forces Training Base on Fri, Dec. 13 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Sunburst Logistical Warehouse, according to the info.

 

Los Al Chamber announces date for 2020 Gala

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Los Al Chamber announces date for 2020 Gala

The Los Alamitos Chamber of Commerce has announced that its annual Gala Fundraiser will be held on Jan. 16, 2020, at the “On the Greens” ballroom of the U.S. Navy Golf Course in Cypress.

The announcement comes after the Chamber revived the long dormant “Installation and Awards Gala” last January following a long absence.

Chamber officials said then that they would evaluate the results before deciding on whether to fully renew the tradition.

Nesi Stewart, Incoming Chairwoman, said indeed they did find that the last year’s gala was a tremendous success.

“The Los Alamitos Area Chamber has been in existence for many years, and that is something to be proud of.  Once again, this year the chamber is hosting a gala to celebrate our accomplishments, and the dedication of our officers and members,” she said.

“Our membership consists of individual business owners, small and medium size businesses, as well as large corporations.  Our members are critical to the success of the chamber and we are grateful for each one of them.  We look forward to your participation in our 2020 Gala, celebrating the Los Alamitos Chamber, the inauguration of officers, and the great city we are a part of,” said Stewart.

In addition to a silent auction and other fundraising elements, the Chamber also used the Gala to announce several awards, including Citizen of the Year, Community Partner (nonprofit) of the Year, and Economic Impact of the Year.

Also, the Chamber uses the occasion to install new officers for the year.

Chamber members have already been polled regarding the awards, said Chamber administrator Toni Hauger. She also said the Chamber is accepting items for its silent auction and that tickets and sponsorships are now available for purchase on the Chamber’s website.

For more information on upcoming gala, please call 562-598-6659 or visit the Chamber’s website, www.losalchamber.org.

 

Courtesy file photo

 

Chamber officials have announced they will hold another Installation and Awards Gala in January, 2020.

 

Celebrating a family with four generations at Los Al Recreation Department

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Celebrating a family with four generations at Los Al Recreation Department

The Los Alamitos Recreation & Community Services Department “creates quality of life” for families by offering programs and events that provides physical activity, socialization, enrichment, in a safe environment to people of all ages.  The Recreation & Community Services Department is a resource for families for jobs, education, knowledge, and experiences.

A local family that spans four generations is linked to the Recreation & Community Services Department.  Mary Catron and Sharon Catron are long time members of the Los Alamitos Senior Club and can be seen frequently in the Los Alamitos Community Center actively engaging with other seniors at Senior Club or the Dine-in and Dough House lunch program.

Rhonda Fox and Rebecca Fox are both employees for the Department.  Rhonda works primarily in the Ready, Set, Go! Preschool Program. Rebecca is a senior at Los Alamitos High School and being a Recreation Leader, works in several areas such as the several special events that the City of Los Alamitos offers annually.

The Los Alamitos Recreation & Community Services Department is proud to offer quality, safe, and meaningful programs to people of all ages from babies to seniors.  For additional information about the programs and events that are offered, contact the Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 430-1073 or visit www.cityoflosalamitos.org/recreation.

Susan Herman named Chief Nursing Officer for MemorialCare

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Susan Herman named Chief Nursing Officer for MemorialCare

MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach has named Susan Herman, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, CENP, as its new Chief Nursing Officer. With more than 12 years of experience in a pediatric academic environment, Herman is a transformational leader who creates a patient-centered and collaborative work environment.

In her role as Chief Nursing Officer, Herman will be responsible for overseeing all nursing clinical care and patient care standards for Miller Children’s & Women’s. Herman also will design and create a partnership model for team collaboration across all disciplines to ensure patients receive the highest quality care. In addition to her inpatient responsibilities, she will provide oversight for the Outpatient Specialty Centers, and the Cherese Mari Laulhere Children’s Village initiative.

“Susan’s depth of experience in developing a shared governance and nursing professional practice model is valuable for Miller Children’s & Women’s,” says John Bishop, chief executive officer, Miller Children’s & Women’s. “Susan’s experience in service line development across the continuum of care and system-wide clinical integration are valuable skills that are perfect for our leadership team.”

Miller Children’s & Women’s employs nearly 1,000 registered nurses, and has achieved Magnet® designation, which recognizes organizations for excellence in nursing care.

“I am excited for this role with the team at Miller Children’s & Women’s,” says Herman. “At

5-years-old, I decided I wanted to be a nurse, and that has been the only career I’ve ever had. I’m passionate about nursing and helping nurses reach their full potential while providing the best patient care.”

Susan received her Bachelor of Science in nursing from Pennsylvania State University, her master’s from the University of California, San Francisco and her doctorate from a joint program from California State University, Fresno, and San Jose State University. She has served in a variety of leadership roles in both state and national nurse leadership organizations, including president of the Association of California Nurse Leaders in 2015, Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital – Stanford University Medical Center and Adventist Health Bakersfield.

Herman’s goals for Miller Children’s & Women’s include fostering a collaborative work environment while continuing to improve nursing excellence. She understands that it takes an entire multi-disciplinary team to care for children and their families, and nurses are a crucial part of that team. She also hopes to increase nursing participation in local and national research projects

“Caring for a child isn’t a one-person job,” says Herman. “Nurses are part of the team, and it is important that the team works fluidly to create the best treatment plan. I want to continue to elevate our nurses to their highest potential while strengthening the entire care team for our patients.”

About MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach:

MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach provides specialized pediatric care for children and young adults — as well as maternity care for expectant mothers —under one roof. Only five percent of all hospitals are children’s hospitals, making them unique not only to children’s health care needs in the community, but across the region. Miller Children’s & Women’s is one of only eight free-standing children’s hospitals in California — treating more than 14,000 children each year — and has become a regional pediatric destination for more than 62,000 visits by children, who need specialized care in the outpatient specialty and satellite centers. For more information, visit millerchildrens.org.

Rossmoor Woman’s Club Students of the Month

David N. Young
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Rossmoor Woman’s Club Students of the Month

At its November luncheon, the Rossmoor Woman’s Club named Los Alamitos High School seniors Cade McConnell and Abby Buzza Students of the Month.

Cade, who plays quarterback on the Griffins’ varsity football team, plans to study sports broadcasting and communication in college.  An all-around athlete, Cade grew up playing baseball as well as football and participated in the Seal Beach Junior Lifeguard program. At Los Al, he has won MVP and All-Sunset League honors while maintaining a 4.2 cumulative grade point average and participating in activities including ASB, CSF and National Society of High School Scholars.

Abby is a four-year member of the Los Alamitos Girls tennis team and has been a doubles MVP for three years. She has been involved with the California Scholarship Federation since freshman year and is a co-president this year. After hearing about the global water crisis, she started the Thirst Project club at Los Al, and has been a co-president for three years. She also has been a volunteer at the Aquarium of the Pacific and done summer volunteer work in Tanzania and Peru.  A member of the Spanish Honor Society and National Honor Society, she plans to study environmental engineering in college.

The RWC honor comes with a $600 scholarship for each student.

 

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Photo:  Cade McConnell, left, and Abby Buzza, were named Students of the Month by the Rossmoor Woman’s Club.

Cypress’ playoff run continues

David N. Young
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Cypress’ playoff run continues

The Cypress High School football Cinderella season continues as the Centurions held back a last-minute surge by the Ventura High Cougars on Friday, to win 33-31.

The hard-earned victory continues Coach Rick Feldman’s winningest coach record and sends the team to the semifinal round against undefeated Serrano (12-0).

The battle of the unbeaten teams will be played at 7 p.m. Friday at Western High and will send the winner to the division finals.

With another standout performance from running back Isaac Hurtado, the Centurions led 33-17 with only three minutes left in regulation, the Cougars scored and added a 2-point conversion to make it 33-25.

Ventura got the ball right back after executing a successful onside kick and quickly scored again, to bring the Cougars within 2 points of the Centurions, 33-31. The defense stepped up, however, and stopped Ventura’s attempted 2-point conversion, sealing the victory for Cypress.

Hurtado rushed for 361 yards on 30 carries, including five touchdowns, one that went for 96 yards.

Cypress remains unbeaten and will face Serrano Friday night. Serrano is the top seed in the division. Cypress ended the season as the No. 5 ranked team in the CIF-SS Division 7 poll.

 

The Time Has Come to Say Goodbye

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The Time Has Come to Say Goodbye

The history of horse racing goes back at least hundreds, and probably in some form, a couple thousand years.  It has taken place in developed and undeveloped areas of the world. In the U.S., marketers pushed the title of the “sport of kings” to hark back to the feudal participants in Europe. They sought to bring its status up from its humble beginnings in the rural South, where the primary participants were slaves fresh off the plantations. But Jim Crow laws soon aligned it with folks with money and political power, changing its face forever.

Let’s take a quick look at the contemporary “sport of kings”.  And as you read on, keep in the back of your mind what might this really mean. Is it a “sport” that you might want to teach your children how to play? And, really, just what is the relationship to royalty? In our understanding of this “sport” let’s pick the low hanging fruit first.

Whipping. The use of brute force appears to be the way to make a horse go faster. I’m not sure how this can be ignored. Let me be clear, the use of a whip inflicts pain. Folks in the “industry” will tell you this is just for motivation, and it doesn’t hurt the animals. I’m not all that bright, but this seems to eschew common sense.  Tell me about how it didn’t hurt the last time you were whipped?

Let’s move on to death. Across the U. S. this year there were 493 racing horses “euthanized”.  Through November (L A Times Nov 2, 2019) there were 37 horses  “euthanized” at Santa Anita Race Track, not including training deaths. According to an article in the Oct 22 Patch, there were 17 horse deaths at Los  Alamitos. As I interpret the information, the deaths were initiated by owners and their veterinarians  because of the  significance of the suffering and pain from broken bones and crushed organs.

I can only conclude that horse racing is not a sport and is in no way related to any modern day kings, at least those here in Los Alamitos.  And the horses are not treated like athletes, in any sense of the word.

I have heard stories around city hall, over the last 18 years, about how the founding city mothers and fathers were offered the race track, but declined, except for the name … which they gave away.

I propose that it is time to take back our good name from the killing fields. Call it whatever you want, like Cypress Rack Track … that’s fine with us. We want no part of it.

 

Elliott Singer

Los Alamitos

Thea Rodrigue named school’s 2019-20 Hero of the Heart

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Thea Rodrigue named school’s 2019-20 Hero of the Heart

Los Alamitos Elementary School has honored Thea Rodrigue, a volunteer and school parent, as its 2019-20 Hero of the Heart in a presentation before the Los Alamitos Unified School Board.

“I can’t thank her enough for all of the time, energy, and dedication to helping all of our students receive an all-around incredible educational experience,” said Principal Gary Willems.

Willems said Rodrigue, mother of twin fifth graders at LAE, spent four years volunteering at the school five days a week and has been instrumental in making events like Fit-A-Thon, Movie Night, Reading Challenge, and Starry Night successful. Under her leadership as president of the Friends of LAE fundraising group, she helped raised over $100,000 in her last year to make sure every student at LAE went on field trips, attended Outdoor Science School, and was able to use technology, Willems said.  “Our students now have access to so many things that would not have been possible without the hard work of Thea.”

In accepting the award, Rodrigue said that “being at LAE has been the best thing that happened for me and my family.” People often asked her how she managed to volunteer so much, she said. “I have a full-time job. I have twins. I’m a single mom. But it didn’t ever feel like work because I have a community that loves LAE just as much as I do.”

Courtesy photo

Elementary students compete in public speaking

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Elementary students compete in public speaking

On Oct. 1, 2019, Frank Vessels Elementary School in Cypress held their 3rd annual oratorical contest. Oratorical refers to the art of public speaking.
According to Principal Mark Holman, this is Vessels Elementary 3rd Annual public speaking contest.
Students in grades first through sixth were eligible to participate. In front of the student body and a panel of judges, contestants recited their choice of a poem or famous speech. Competitors were judged on a variety of skills such as pace, accuracy, tone, volume, clarity, eye contact with audience, gestures/props, and connection to the audience. Our students did a fantastic job presenting their poems and we look forward to next year’s contest.

Arnold Elementary Hosts Veterans Day Ceremony

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Arnold Elementary Hosts Veterans Day Ceremony

Arnold Elementary in Cypress hosted their annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Tuesday, November 12. Veterans and active duty service members were invited and honored at this event. The morning began with raising of the flag by local Boy Scouts and Scouts. After the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance, the Lexington Junior High Band performed the National Anthem. Veterans Day poems were then read by two Girl Scouts and patriotic songs were sung by all students. The morning ended with refreshments served to honored guests and their families. Courtesy photo

Los Al Race Track to cut ribbon on new sports bar

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Los Al Race Track to cut ribbon on new sports bar

Los Alamitos Race Course celebrates the grand opening of The Lounge, a 7,000 square foot sports bar and wagering room on Friday, Nov. 22 at 5 p.m. with free admission and appetizers. The Lounge will feature 65 large screen TVs, pool tables, TouchTunes Jukebox, complimentary Wi-Fi and up to 11 horse racing wagering machine. A select menu prepared by the Vessels Club chef and specially selected beers and spirits will surely become a favorite of sports fans and a destination for those looking for a fun entertainment experience.

The custom-designed room was designed to enhance the visitor-friendly atmosphere that is a hallmark of Los Alamitos Race Course. Guests will see the eye-catching 40-foot-long granite top and mahogany bar that is one of centerpieces of The Lounge. Ample seating is available at the bar.

TVs will broadcast the best of daytime and nighttime horse racing – highlighted by the live Los Alamitos racing program. Sports fans will also enjoy the broadcasts of all of their favorite LA sports teams and on Sundays The Lounge will feature the popular NFL Sunday Ticket. Premium sporting events will also be featured throughout the year.

The menu will include The Lounge Cheese Burger served on a pretzel bun with all the trimmings plus a generous side of french fries, an Ahi Tuna Tartare as well as a Fried Calamari and Jalapeño plate that will surely spice up the evening. Bar staples like chicken Buffalo wings and carne asada nachos are among the other items on the menu.

Providing a top fan experience has always been the utmost of importance at Los Alamitos Race Course and the new The Lounge hopes to continue that tradition. Los Alamitos Race Course also features the Vessels Club, one of the premier turf clubs in all of racing,

The Lounge is located on the ground level of the building with direct access to the main parking lot area of Los Alamitos Race Course. Guests will enter through double entry mahogany doors. The room will feature a relaxed dress code but note that men’s tank tops are not permitted. For longtime racing fans familiar to the track, the new room replaces the old Post & Paddock room between the grandstand and clubhouse buildings.

The full bar is centered by two large beams that come together to form a large V – honoring the Vessels Family that first established Los Alamitos Race Course. Three flat screen TVs have been installed at the top of the V. On the other side of the bar, fans can pass the time in between races playing pool or enjoying music.

As you move out of The Lounge and into the outdoor racetrack viewing area, visitors will find the enclosed private patio deck facing the finish line. The Lounge Patio can be reserved by calling 714-820-2681.

The Lounge at Los Alamitos Race Course will open on Friday, Nov. 22 at 5 p.m. with free admission and appetizers for the first night. Daily admission to The Lounge will be $5. Los Alamitos Race Course is located at 4961 Katella Avenue in Los Alamitos. Los Alamitos Race Course offers free parking. Reserved parking is also available. For more call 714-820-2800 or visit losalamitos.com. You can also follow Los Alamitos Race Course on Instagram or Twitter @losalracing.

Morgan Johnson Gruenebaum Legacy Fund exceeds expectations

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Morgan Johnson Gruenebaum Legacy Fund exceeds expectations

The father of a young woman who succumbed to brain cancer just over a month ago announced this week that the legacy fund established in her honor has already raised nearly $130,000.

The 33-year-old Seal Beach native died Sept. 25 following a 22-month battle with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), a deadly brain cancer for which there is no known cure. At the time of her death, she was an executive with Raytheon, happily enjoying life with husband Ben in their El Segundo home.

“Morgan’s laugh was a contagion of genuine joy that embodied the quintessential positivity that she brought this world. May the echoes of her laughter be heard in our hearts to remind us of her kindness, love and the memories we had with her,” he said at the time of her death.

Gary Johnson, Morgan’s father, said this week that while the initial fundraising goal was $100,000 for Morgan’s research fund, that amount has already been exceeded.

“Thank you for your generous contribution to Morgan’s Legacy Fund through UCLA,” he said in a statement to the local community. “Through your generosity, Morgan’s name will now be leading brain cancer research at UCLA, providing hope and strength through science to those fighting,” he said.

“I am honored to share with you that in just over 1 month, we have raised a total of $132,646 with 262 individual contributions – exceeding our goal of $100,000 to officially endow the Morgan Gruenebaum Fund for Glioblastoma Research,” said Johnson in the statement.

He said Morgan’s fund will now live on in perpetuity for as long as UCLA is in existence, advancing research for a cure to brain cancer saving countless lives in Morgan’s name.

“We could not have done this without you – thank you! Your generous donations have realized a legacy that begins to fit the impact Morgan left on our world,” he said.

Johnson said the goal now is to continue to grow the Morgan Gruenebaum Legacy Fund year after year, and “we invite you to do the same by choosing Morgan’s fund as your preferred charity.”

“We will continue to work with UCLA to identify corporate and large donors in the years to come to grow Morgan’s fund substantially, establishing Morgan’s legacy as the centerpiece for brain cancer research.”

Johnson said this week he wanted to send a message to all those who helped in any way. “On behalf of the Johnson Family, your kindness has forever touched our hearts and we will be forever grateful,” he said.

Contributions can still be made by sending checks to: UCLA Neurosurgery Development, Wasserman Building, 300 Stein Plaza, Suite 562, Los Angeles, CA 90095-6901.

Courtesy photo:

 

Three Los Al students medal at Jr. World Karate Championships in Santiago

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Three Los Al students medal at Jr. World Karate Championships in Santiago

A sophomore from Los Alamitos High School captured the silver medal during the World Karate Championships in Santiago, Chile Oct. 23-27, according to Diane Nguyen of NKD Martial Arts.

Two other Los Al students finished high in the international competition that hosted martial arts competitors from more than 120 countries.

According to Nguyen, LAHS Sophomore, Reece Yoshizawa, 15, brought home a Silver medal, Junior Kaitlyn Shimohara took 5th place, narrowly missing the bronze medal and freshman, and Kaylee Mow also took 5th place in Team kata.

All three students are on the Jr. National Team and train at NKD Martial Arts in Fullerton, under the instruction of Sensei Chad Eagan and Sensei Bruce Nguyen.

US Male Team kata (forms) illustrating the defensive techniques of karate. Courtesy photo

Yoshizawa competed in the Team Kata (synchronized forms) division with teammates Ian Estrada, 17, and Paolo Serafico, 15. Yoshizawa, Estrada and Serafico competed at Nationals in Chicago this past July and brought home the Gold medal to qualify for the Jr. World Championships. This is the first time the USA male team kata has ever medaled at the Jr. World Karate Championships.

In the 14-17-year-old Team Kata division, Yoshizawas team competed against teams from Canada, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Malaysia, Croatia, Montenegro and Turkey. They placed first in the first round with an impressive score of 24.26. The took first place again in the second round with another high score of 24.62 to put them in the final round against Egypt.

In the final round, their team scored 23.67 to win the Silver medal.

According to Nguyen’s statement, approximately 120 countries representing 5 continents with a total of 1700 accredited athletes competed at this Championship. Five days of competition and 10 days of related activities and trainings. These championships are one of the most important sporting events of 2019 organized by the National Federation of Karate of Chile and the World Karate Federation WKF.

It is the first World Youth Championships held in the Americas since 2004 and one of the key events before the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Yoshizawa started training at the age of 4 years old under. He started competing when he was 7 years old and he spends 5-7 days a week training at the dojo. He has been on the US National Team for the past three years and is a six-time National Champion. He competed at his first international tournament at the Pan American games in Guayaquil, Ecuador in August, placing 5th. Besides karate, Yoshizawa has been playing alto saxophone since he was 9 years old. He plays in the Los Alamitos High school jazz band all while keeping a 4.0 GPA throughout middle school and high school.

Yoshizawa makes sure to volunteer his time and goes to Lee Elementary school weekly to help his former teachers in their classrooms. He also volunteers his time at the karate dojo and teaches weapon classes to students of all ages. Yoshizawa lives in Rossmoor, CA with his parents and he has an older sister, Marissa.

Kaylee Mow started training in karate at the age of 5. This was her first year on the US National Team and placed 5th. She is on the freshman basketball team at LAHS, plays the piano and volunteers her time at the library and at Weaver Elementary. Kaylee maintains a 4.0 gpa and lives in Seal Beach with her parents.

Kaitlyn Shimohara started training at the age of 4. She has been on the US National team for the last 3 years, is a two-time National Champion and is a two-time gold medalist at the Panamerican games.

Shimohara is ranked 59th in the world for WKF female kata. She is on the dance team at LAHS and volunteers her time with her girl scout troop and teaches karate to the younger students at her dojo. Shimohara also maintains a 4.0 GPA and lives in Rossmoor with her parents and has an older brother, Sean.

Courtesy photo

 

 

 

Reagan assistant to speak to Long Beach Republican women

For Event-News Enterprise
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Reagan assistant to speak to Long Beach Republican women

Following two terms in office, President Ronald Reagan continued with a busy schedule before leaving public life following announcement of his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. During those ten post White House years, Peggy Grande worked in the Office of Ronald Reagan in Los Angeles from 1989 to 1999 as his executive assistant. Author of “The President Will See You Now: My Stories and Lessons from Ronald Reagan’s Final Years,” Grande will be the featured speaker at the Saturday, Dec. 14, Long Beach Republican Women Federated holiday breakfast meeting. She will share behind-the-scenes stories, candid photographs, humorous moments and poignant insights into one of America’s most beloved presidents.

Following Grande’s presentation, columnist and Republican Women Federated member Robin Itzler will install the club’s 2020 board of directors. Held at the Long Beach Airport Marriott (4700 Airport Plaza Drive), the morning meeting includes important information for Republicans. Registration starts at 9 a.m. with breakfast served at 9:30 a.m. The cost is just $30 for members and $35 for non-members and there is free parking.

The community is invited to celebrate the joyous holiday season during this festive year-end meeting. The relaxed environment offers like-minded women and men an opportunity to learn more about Republican Women Federated and how they can be part of America’s largest grassroots organization. For information and reservations:

Email: LongBeachRWF@gmail.com

Call:     562-432-5822

Web:   http://www.longbeachrepublicanwomen.com/calendar.html

 

Draft maps prompt Leisure World questions

David N. Young
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Draft maps prompt Leisure World questions

Pulver says maps only “conservation starters”

By Jeannette Andruss

The Los Alamitos Unified School District has released five draft maps for public review as it moves from an at-large voting system to one with five trustee voting areas. Starting in 2020, voters in the district will select one candidate from their area to represent them on the Board of Education rather than casting ballots for all five Board members.

LAUSD Superintendent Dr. Andrew Pulver characterized the draft maps as “conversation starters” meant to prompt discussion and provide input that will be used to create a different, final map that will be approved by the Board of Education sometime in January.

The draft maps divide the school district into different configurations of five trustee voting areas with a focus of keeping “communities of interest” together. How to fairly incorporate the Seal Beach retirement community of Leisure World into the areas has been a topic of debate.

“We’ve showed a variety of maps that offer a variety of options,” said Justin Levitt, demographer from National Demographics Corporation, the firm LAUSD hired to draw the new voting trustee area maps.

The maps, and process for approval, can be reviewed by visiting losal.org/voting.

LAUSD has nine schools spread across Seal Beach, Rossmoor and Los Alamitos in an area with about 48,000 people. Each voting area must have a similar population size of about 9,600 people. That number represents total population which means children are included in that count.

LAUSD officials have been holding community meetings to get residents’ feedback on the draft maps. The next meeting is scheduled for December 10 at 6:30 p.m. during the regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting in the District Office Board Room at 10293 Bloomfield Street.

On Nov. 12, there was discussion on the maps during the regular Board of Education meeting but it happened after the deadline to print The Event-News Enterprise. Last week, meetings took place in Rossmoor, Los Alamitos, at J.H. McGaugh Elementary School in Seal Beach and in Leisure World.

Leisure World, the private retirement community that doesn’t allow school-age children to reside there, raises some distinctive issues for demographers in this transition for LAUSD.

Leisure World residents must be at least 55 years old, so they are all voting-age and a majority are registered voters. While they do cast ballots for the Board of Education, Leisure World was exempted from voting on or re-paying the past two LAUSD bond measures. Bond measures add a fee to property tax bills to finance projects for the district. Measure G, LAUSD’s $97 million bond measure, passed in November 2018.

Because of Leisure World’s unique concentration of voting-age residents, there is an awareness by demographers, and concern for some residents, that how the community fits into the new voting trustee areas could impact other neighborhoods.

 

During a meeting in Clubhouse 3 at Leisure World on November 5, Board of Education member Marlys Davidson explained a possible scenario where 4,800 people from Leisure World were grouped with 4,800 people from other communities to form one voting trustee area.

The concern is that the Leisure World portion could “dominate” or outvote the other neighborhoods because the other communities have more children who cannot vote.

At that same meeting, many attendees voiced support for having Leisure World kept in one voting trustee area meaning they would have one representative on the Board.

“I think we’re better as a unified voice,” said Leisure World resident Kathy Moran and added that splitting up Leisure World would be “too disjointed for us.”

But, as Levitt noted, the population of Leisure World, about 7,500 according to the 2010 U.S. Census, isn’t enough to constitute its own LAUSD voting trustee area. (The voting area population counts will be updated after the 2020 U.S. Census.)

“What neighborhood should Leisure World be connected to?” Levitt asked attendees at the Nov. 5 meeting.

Only one of the draft maps has Leisure World kept together in one voting area but it is grouped with parts of College Park West and Rossmoor, the community with the most number of school-age children, according to Levitt.

The other draft maps have Leisure World split up into two, three or four different voting areas. Leisure World is covered by two Seal Beach City Council districts.

“We really care about all the children in Orange County,” one Leisure World resident at the meeting said. She noted that Leisure World residents have grandchildren in the district. No representative on the LAUSD Board of Education has a child currently enrolled at an LAUSD school.

After the meeting, Moran said she was grateful for the opportunity to speak out. “My wish may not be fulfilled but my voice will be heard,” she said.

Residents can also submit input by emailing trusteeareaelection@losal.org.

 

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