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Artillery to mark change of command at JFTB

David N. Young
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Artillery to mark change of command at JFTB

The sound of artillery fire will echo across communities surrounding Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB) and Los Alamitos Army Airfield (LAAAF) on Saturday, Dec. 8, commemorating the change of command for the 79th Theater Sustainment Command of the U.S. Army Reserve. The ceremony is scheduled to get underway at 11 a.m.

The traditional artillery salute by M119 howitzers of the California Army National Guard’s Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 143rd Field Artillery Regiment, will highlight the formal ceremony at which Maj. Gen. Eugene J. LeBoeuf will formally assume command from Maj. Gen. Mark W. Palzer.

Test firing of the artillery will take place on Friday (Dec. 7) at 9 a.m. and on Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m. in conjunction with ceremony rehearsals.

LeBoeuf graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate of the U.S. Army ROTC program and received a Regular Army commission in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in May 1985. He is a graduate (magna cum laude) of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, Northwestern University with a M.S. in Industrial Engineering and Management Science, Stanford University with a M.S. in Civil Engineering, The University of Michigan with a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, and the U.S. Army War College with a Master of Strategic Studies.

In his civilian capacity, LeBoeuf serves as the Associate Department Chair, Director of Undergraduate Studies, and Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee. He has published over 50 technical publications, including four U.S. patents, and was a recipient of the U.S. National Science Foundation’s Faculty CAREER Award. He is a registered Professional Engineer in Missouri and Tennessee, and is a Board Certified Environmental Engineer.

 

Los Alamitos Holiday Decorating Contest

David N. Young
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Los Alamitos Holiday Decorating Contest

The city of Los Alamitos is inviting local homeowners to decorate for the holidays and participate in this year’s home decorating contest.

In a notice this week, the city’s recreation and parks department invited all Los Alamitos homeowners to “decorate your home in the holiday spirit”!

Here is the official information.

The Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department would like to invite all city of Los Alamitos residents to participate in the 2018 Holiday Decorating Contest. No registration is required; all decorated homes will be judged on Wednesday, December 12. Homes must have holiday displays and lights turned on for the duration of 6:00pm – 9:00pm to be eligible. Judges will select 1st and 2nd place winners in each of the Los Alamitos neighborhoods. Award signs will be distributed to each winner for display in front of their home the week of December 17. A list of the winning homes will be also be posted on the City’s website. For additional information, please contact the Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 430-1073.

 

Umberg Sworn in to state Senate

David N. Young
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Umberg Sworn in to state Senate

Retired U.S. Army Colonel and small businessman Tom Umberg was sworn into office today as State Senator from the 34th Senate District. The Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court, Tani Cantil-Sakauye, administered the oath of office.

“It is truly an honor and privilege to serve the residents of the 34th Senate District. The issues we face in 2019 and beyond require all of us to work with a common purpose toward a stronger future for all Californians. While our state is currently enjoying a strong economy and has done well at building up the Rainy Day Fund, it is important that we continue to invest in quality healthcare, education and affordable housing to protect and improve the quality of life for all Californians.

“As State Senator, I will always fight to deliver a fair share of resources to our region so that everyone has a chance to own a home, live in a safe neighborhood, have access to quality healthcare and send their children to the best schools possible. I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues in both houses to continue strengthening our great state and delivering for all Californians.”

The Legislature will reconvene for the 2019-20 legislative session on Monday, January 7, 2019. Umberg, a Democrat, after days of gaining in ballot count updates, took a narrow lead and finally unseated state Sen. Janet Nguyen (R-Garden Grove) in the 34th Senate District.

Umberg now adds to the Democrats’ supermajorities they gained in the state Legislature in November’s election.

With a two-thirds supermajority, the party can raise taxes, override vetoes, and suspend legislative rules without needing Republican votes.

The 34th District includes western Long Beach, as well as the entire cities of Santa Ana, Garden Grove, Fountain Valley, Westminster, Seal Beach, Los Alamitos.

The district also includes the northern half of Huntington Beach, a southern portion of Anaheim, a small slice of the city of Orange, and the entire unincorporated communities of Rossmoor and Midway City.

 

Rossmoor residents sound off about freeway noise pollution

David N. Young
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Rossmoor residents sound off about freeway noise pollution

By David N. Young

More than 500 residents have purportedly signed a petition seeking “redress” from the state’s transportation agency saying the noise emanating from a nearby overpass and exchange has reached the point of being “unhealthy.”

According to organizer Cindy Senteno, there are more than 3,500 homeowners in Rossmoor and the growing nuisance of sound pollution affects many of them. “We are making some noise of our own,” she said, adding that petition drives are accumulating more signatures and residents are becoming more focused on getting some attention from Caltrans.

The petition, obtained by the Event-News Enterprise, claims the Rossmoor residents “bordering on the 405 Freeway, petition a redress to Caltrans, OCFA and other participating entities, cities and counties, and those involved in reducing noise and pollution levels to state mandated levels.”

Although Caltrans did send a representative to a community meeting in October, Senteno says residents are increasing their pressure on the agency. According to Senteno, an investigator walked into her back yard and had to “hold their ears,” claiming the noise was “unbearable.”

Residents are asking for improvements to the sound wall and a change in the Caltrans landscaping plan. The petition is requesting Caltrans “correct the improper height of the sound wall,” which they say was built over 26 years ago, and they want it rebuilt to 16 feet above the grade of the freeway at its highest location.

Senteno, who lives near the overpass on the 22 Freeway and the 7th Street bridge, coupled now with the 605 carpool lane, said her backyard was once so quiet that her family hosted a backyard wedding there. Long gone, however, is that solace as recent freeway improvements were made and new improvements are underway, said Senteno.

“Rossmoor residents were not included in any EIR or sound testing for this expansion project. Therefore, these 3,500 homes and residents, bordered by the 405 freeway and directly impacted by this project, having had no input request the necessary correction to the project which included, asphalt in place of concrete for the freeway lanes, to reduce sound pollution and use of dense, fast growing trees such as Brazil Pepper trees, not pine trees in all landscaped areas,” claims the petition.

According to Senteno, the group is also hoping for enhanced responses from local representatives, including Sen. Janet Nguyen and Supervisor Michelle Steele, although the public officials did send representatives to their October public meeting on the crisis.

She said the petitioners are very happy to have received support from Ralph Vartabedian and Rossmoor Homeowners Association. Senteno said former RHA president Beverly Houghton, was an early supporter and that support has been appreciated.

The Rossmoor residents are pressing Caltrans for action as the agency ramps up their own internal investigation. Caltrans spokesman Van Nguyen promised to look into the issue and soon provide an update.

 

 

 

Residents have signed a petition for Caltrans to modify the sound wall to address the issues.

18th Taste of Los Al provides fun, food and funds, nets approximately $250K

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18th Taste of Los Al provides fun, food and funds, nets approximately $250K

18th Taste of Los Al provides fun, food and funds, nets approximately $250K

With approximately 40 restaurants and other vendors providing food, and almost 30 Los Alamitos High School booster groups participating, the 18th Annual Taste for Los Al turned in another successful performance, once again netting approximately $250,000 in gross revenues.

The event was held on Saturday, Oct. 13, at the Shops at Rossmoor, which graciously donated their site for the 11th straight year. Just over 3,300 tickets were sold to the event, but the rain earlier in the day (not to mention the thunder and lightning the previous night) may have intimidated some ticket buyers as just under 2,900 persons actually attended. Those who did enjoyed almost perfect weather throughout the evening.

Booster clubs earned $96,000 from ticket sales with softball leading the way with 427 tickets sold, followed by Vocal Music (357), Baseball (288) and Girls Soccer (269). Groups receive $30 per ticket sale, less for late sales.

Groups also raised nearly $90,000 from the almost 80 silent auction tables and various raffles, with Lacrosse leading the way in this area with nearly $18,000 reported revenues from their 14 auction tables. Baseball, Softball, Ice Hockey and Boys Basketball also each earned about $10,000 mark. These totals, combined with the beverage sales, now mean The Taste has raised over $3 million in revenues to support activities at Los Alamitos High School (and middle school music groups) since it began with the food of ten local restaurants in 2001.

Three of those restaurants from that first year have never missed an event – Hof’s Hut, Sango Sushi, and the Yucatan Grill.

Participating restaurants this year included:

Los Alamitos: A LA Waffle, Hof’s Hut, Katella Deli, Sango Sushi, Madera’s Steakhouse, Brew Kitchen Ale House, Mama’s, Shenandoah at the Arbor, Griffins Grill, P.O.P. (Pacific Organic Pops), Potholder Café, Polly’s Pies

North Seal Beach/Rossmoor: Chick Fil-A, Santa Fe Importers, Pick-Up Stix, Islands, Sprouts, Peet’s Coffee

Seal Beach: Yucatan Grill, Mahe, 320 Main, Walt’s Wharf, Bogart’s Coffee

Long Beach: Buffalo Wild Wings, The Crooked Duck, The Eldo (El Dorado), Grocery Outlet, Lucille’s BBQ, Mimi’s Café, Parker’s Lighthouse, Sideyard Café, Simmzy’s, Twiced Baked Baking Co.

Garden Grove: On the Rocks.

“Our Los Al”, a non-profit whose mission is to help support and promote awareness of activities at Los Alamitos High School and the greater Los Alamitos Community, hosts the Taste for Los Al. OUR Los Al keeps the beverage sales and whatever of the ticket revenues is left after event expenses are paid. It uses its money to help fund big-ticket items, and activities involving multiple groups. Over the years it donated $235,000 for the all-weather track at the high school, in addition to money for the gym scoreboard, and multiple field improvements, and training room improvements. It also uses some of the money to help fund broadcasts of Los Al HS sports and other school activities throughout the year.

Article submitted by ‘Our Los Al.’

 

 

Pictured in photo illustration, are representatives from most of the participating Los Al HS booster clubs showed up last Tuesday in front of the Los Alamitos High School Performing Arts center to receive their checks for ticket sales at this year’s Taste for Los Al. Booster groups raised over $180,000 at this year’s event to support their activities. Also in the photo are representatives from OUR Los Al and The Shops at Rossmoor.

Brandyberry makes donation to Boys & Girls Club of Cypress

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Brandyberry makes donation to Boys & Girls Club of Cypress

­The Boys & Girls Club of Cypress appreciates the generosity of Mr. Kenny Brandyberry, who donated $10,000 to provide Club scholarships to children and teens with financial need.

Because of his support they are able to participate in academic enrichment classes, STEAM workshops, health and fitness activities, and leadership development programs at the Boys & Girls Club. Club Board Member and Cypress Mayor Jon Peat was on hand to accept the donation on behalf of the Club. Club founder Mr. Andy Lachina accompanied Mr. Brandyberry on his tour of the Club.

For more information, stop by the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress at 10161 Moody St. in Cypress, call 714-527-2697, or visit the website at www.bgccypress.org.

Article submitted by Boys & Girls Club of Cypress

 

Generational leadership training at Boys & Girls Club of Cypress

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Generational leadership training at Boys & Girls Club of Cypress

The Boys & Girls Club of Cypress encourages teens to be leaders in our local community. To help foster leadership development, the Club for Teens offers two fun-filled, character-building clubs.

Members in 7th and 8th grade participate in L.E.G.I.T. (Leading Every Generation into Tomorrow) Leadership Club weekly to participate in activities related to service, education, health and fitness, and social recreation. Projects include collection drives, Club fundraisers, homework assistance with elementary school members, and leading Club activities.

Club members in high school participate in Keystone Club, the Boys & Girls Club Movement’s ultimate teen program for youth ages 14-18. This club focuses on leadership development opportunities for youth, both in and out of the Club, in three main focus areas: academic success, career preparation, and community service. Keystone Club meets weekly to plan and execute these activities. Throughout the month of October, the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress partnered with the Cypress Women’s Club to assemble care packages for veterans called Buddy Boxes. Keystone Club members led a collection drive and asked Club members and their families to donate travel-size hand sanitizers and hand lotions for Buddy Boxes.

For more information about leadership and teen programming, stop by the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress at 10161 Moody St. in Cypress, call 714-527-2697, or visit the website at www.bgccypress.org.

Rossmoor Christmas Lights celebration 2018

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Rossmoor Christmas Lights celebration 2018

By Chris Marshall

Here we go! Well, kind of – going absolutely bonkers at the moment, being that as of the weekend after Thanksgiving, my house is completely dark. I’m part of a group of wonderful neighbors that start decorating for the Christmas season the day after turkey. This group includes Bill, John, Jim, Randy, Jami, Rosalio, Rich, Michelle, Tim, Ryan, Zac, Larry, Lynette, Jody, Raul, Roger, Nina, Andy, Monte, Annette, Bob, Stefan, Tammy, Craig, Terry, Eric, Mark and Kieran. I’m so jealous of those Rossmoor households (and all the Christmas crazy families) at the moment.

Just had surgery on the foot, with the doctor’s orders of absolutely no pressure on the leg, which doesn’t bode well to climbing on one’s roof or lawn with Christmas lights and decorations – ah humbug.

So, with that in mind, the RHA sponsored Rossmoor Christmas Lights Celebration kicks off their 12th annual season of colored lights and festivities, encouraging all Rossmoor residents to register their home now!

Of course this isn’t a contest, and the amazing Christmas spirit across Rossmoor allows us to create a

customized map. The hotspots homes of Christmas festivity are highlighted to help everyone navigate the neighborhood and share in the excitement!

Previous awards included the Winter Wonderland Award, the Griswold Award, or even Rookie-of-the-Year Award. The primary goal for all participants is to Make-the-Map, with your home being identified as one of the locations for families to check out along the route.

Speaking of routes, in its third year, the Rossmoor Christmas Lights Bicycle Tour is planned for Saturday, December 22, starting at Rush Park. So many people have already been asking about this! More details to follow for a fun family evening that will include bike decorating and post tour festivities.

Chris Marshall and Kieran Nolan co-chair the RHA Christmas Lights Celebration, and participation is completely free (well, apart from the back-breaking labor required to decorate your house, of course)!  To participate and earn a spot on the neighborhood map, simply send an email to the team at rossmoorlights@gmail.com, or register via the RHA website with your name, address, and phone number at https://ourrossmoor.com/christmas-lights-entry/

Here are the key dates:

  • Saturday, December 15: Judges travel around that evening, checking out the registered homes and determining the recognition awards and homes to be included in the Hot Spots Map
  • Tuesday, December 18: Recognition Awards and Christmas Lights Hot Spots announced on RHA website, and Map available for downloading
  • Saturday, December 22: Rossmoor Christmas Lights Bicycle Tour, starting at Rush Park

OK time to register and decorate your house for all the walkers, bikers and drivers that will be enjoying your Christmas lights efforts throughout December.

Rossmoor Woman’s Club annual home tour begins Sunday

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Rossmoor Woman’s Club annual home tour begins Sunday

The annual Rossmoor Woman’s Club Holiday Home Tour is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2. During the self-guided tour, visitors can see four remodeled homes decorated for the holidays and enjoy complimentary cookies and tea at the North Seal Beach Community Center, where gift baskets will be raffled off and a selection of gifts, floral and decorative items from several vendors will be for sale.

Tickets cost $20 in advance from any member or participating business, $21 on the club’s website or $25 the day of the tour, where they may be purchased at the North Seal Beach Community Center. All net proceeds go to fund scholarships for students at Los Alamitos High School and to aid community service organizations the club supports with monetary grants or in-kind gifts. These include Precious Life Shelter, We Care, Bethune Transitional Center, Friends of the Los Alamitos Rossmoor Library, Los Alamitos Museum, the Youth Center, Pathways to Independence, services for local military families and veterans, and more. For more information, see the club website at www.rossmoorwomansclub.com.

 

All in the family at Youth Center

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All in the family at Youth Center

By Laurie Hanson

For more than a decade, it’s been ‘all in the family’ for the Sauvao’s who have been involved with programs at The Youth Center in Los Alamitos. All five of their children have been active with the award-winning nonprofit’s programs, four of which currently attend R.A.S.C.A.L.S. in Rossmoor Park. “I trust the Youth Center because we have history with them,” said mother Cathy Sauvao of Rossmoor. “My children have been involved with the Y.C. for over 10 years.”

Her children ranging in age from 10 years old to 5 years old, who now attend R.A.S.C.A.L.S. and go to Lee Elementary School are Saige, Sadie, Sabelle and Sharlize. Along with their eldest brother 15-year-old Mark, a sophomore at Los Alamitos High School, most the children have attended The Youth Center’s summer camp as well.

“What I like about R.A.S.C.A.L.S. is the staff and hanging out with my friends,” said Saige, age 10. “I also love that we have to do homework so when we get home we are done and can watch T.V. What I love about Camp S.H.A.R.K. are the field trips and being outdoors on our blankets. I like hanging out with friends and getting to know people.”

Next in line is 8-year-old Sadie, and her favorite thing about the after school program is meeting new people, while with Camp S.H.A.R.K., it’s doing arts & crafts, and making slime on Fridays. Younger sister 6-year-old Sabelle’s favorite thing about R.A.S.C.A.L.S. is playing and interacting with the staff, and she too enjoyed crafts at summer camp. Youngest child 5-year-old Sharlize’s favorite thing about R.A.S.C.A.L.S. is also being with staff and coloring during free playtime. She hasn’t yet attended summer camp but is excited to eventually go to Camp S.H.A.R.K. and to go on field trips like her sisters.

Watching finances is important with such a large family, and Cathy said that the Y.C. has helped them save significantly with their child care needs especially in comparison to other after school programs in the area. She is also impressed with how her kids have developed greater social and reading skills, and how the R.A.S.C.A.L.S. staff helps with homework.

“My kids benefit from the homework assistance, and it helps me when I get home,” she said. “I don’t have to worry too much about it because I know that they already got help. It’s definitely a winner!”

Cathy said her children liked The Youth Center’s Camp S.H.A.R.K. the most, especially going on the field trips. Her kids look forward to time off school hanging out with friends at Rossmoor Park. She recommends both R.A.S.C.A.L.S. and the Youth Center’s summer camp to other families.

“They have an ample amount of staff that ensures the safety of the kids,” she added. “My eldest son attended summer camp for five years and enjoyed his time there.”For more information about The Youth Center after school programs or summer camps, please visit online at www.theyouthcenter.org.

Dave Ruiz in concert at the Faith Christian Assembly

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Dave Ruiz in concert at the Faith Christian Assembly

Faith Christian Assembly is thrilled to announce that our long-time friend, Dave Ruiz will be in concert with us Sunday, December 2, 2018, in our 5:30 p.m. service. Dave has a beautiful tenor voice and he is very gifted on the trumpet as well. His God given talents have opened countless doors around the world including Brazil, Costa Rica, Europe, and even Russia. We invite you to come and experience the ministry of Dave Ruiz. You will be blessed!

Tuesday is Faith Fellowship Time at 11 a.m. in the Garden Room. Midweek Bible Study taught by Pastor Sheri, Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the Garden Room.

To receive a free newsletter and for more information on the church, call 562-598-9010 or visit our website at www.FCAchurch.net.

 

LAUSD schools celebrate Veteran’s Day

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LAUSD schools celebrate Veteran’s Day

Students, staff and neighbors gathered to honor those who serve in the armed forces at Veterans Day ceremonies across the Los Alamitos Unified School District. Each school hosted former and current service members and honored them with songs, gifts and flag displays. Right, Marine Staff Sgt. Eric Rogers with Hopkinson students. left, Dillon Luyben with his grandfather Dennis Hehn, an Air Force veteran of the Vietnam War.

 

Caltrans abandons cleanup of weeds and trash on 605 and 405 Freeway interchanges and roadway

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Caltrans abandons cleanup of weeds and trash on 605 and 405 Freeway interchanges and roadway

The overgrown weeds and trash on the 605 Freeway from the Katella Avenue on and off ramps south to the 405 Freeway is being ignored by a Caltrans that has had increased funding from last years increased gas tax dollars. You can find mattresses, tires, chairs and furniture along all adjacent ramps and the main highway in all directions. The tumble weeds along the east side of 605 Freeway and the east and west roadways of 7th Street to the 405 Freeway resemble the wild prairies of Texas!

This disgraceful situation has been brought to the attention of OCTA and Caltrans at an local homeowners meeting three months ago, and in recent phone calls – but nothing has been done. The only reply from OCTA was that this area is under the jurisdiction of the construction contractor for the 405 Freeway project, and that Caltrans cannot trespass! Does this mean we have to wait to the completion of this project to 2023 or probably later?

But the real problem is that this dysfunctional California agency does not see the problem themselves. Why is it than when you leave the state freeways and enter either Seal Beach or Los Alamitos streets you find attractive medians, road shoulders and landscape constantly cared for? For example, when you exit at Katella Avenue and enter Los Alamitos, you find manicured medians with flowers, and the south side of Katella with mowed lawns and trimmed trees? All of the political signs in this area from election three weeks ago are long removed, but the ones on the Caltrans access ramps will maybe remain for the next election.

The adjacent areas to Caltrans right of ways are always abandoned landscaping, dead vegetation, trash of every description, broken fences and full-blown graffiti. If Caltrans is incompetent, then this State agency should surrender the proper funds to the adjacent cities to clean up this blight.

John Kouros

Rossmoor

 

H.O.P.E. lets Good Times Roll at Knott’s

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H.O.P.E. lets Good Times Roll at Knott’s

By Edna Ethington

H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Everyday) held its 29th Annual Dinner Dance Fundraiser at Knott’s Berry Farm Resort Hotel on November 17.

Guests came to enjoy cocktails and appetizers while placing their bids on 50 Silent Auction baskets donated by parishioners, community members and businesses. They also purchased raffle tickets for chances to win prizes, including 3 Big Raffle Prizes of 55” Samsung TV, a $500 Master Card Gift Card, and a $250 cash with a safe. Guests also enjoyed their dinner choices of Knott’s fried chicken, salmon, or vegetable lasagna and pies for dessert. They all “Let the Good Times Roll” as they listened and danced to the music of the Ohio Trio Plus Band.

Everyone seem to really enjoy dancing to the music of the Ohio Trio Plus because the floor was filled with dancers throughout the evening. The women, especially, were like Dancing Queens dancing enthusiastically till the last dance music was played. The Queen of the Dancing Queens was Sr. Kathleen Pritchard of the Presentation Sisters. Sr. Kathleen danced all night with different partners, including Fr. William, H.O.P.E.’s Board President David Gallagher and the Dancing Queens.

H.O.P.E. is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that operates the area Food Bank on the grounds of St. Irenaeus Church in Cypress. It relies on their Annual Dinner Dance Fundraiser to provide additional funds to purchase items that government subsidies and donations do not provide for the 150 to 200 registered families and homeless people who live in the Food Bank area.

According to the fundraiser’s chairman, Bob Sgobba, the Dinner Dance Fundraiser successfully raised approximately $10,000 with the sale of 215 Dinner Dance tickets and the funds raised by the raffles and the Silent Auction of gift baskets. The item that brought the highest bid was Item #50, “An Evening of Culinary Delights,” which was the Dinner for Six hosted by the priests of St. Irenaeus. Fr. Binh Nguyen and Fr. William Goldin came and thanked people for supporting fundraiser and asked people to bid on their Dinner for Six. People responded generously so that the winner of the dinner was Winn Crowley with her bid of $1,600. The proceeds from the fundraiser will be used to purchase more food for the clients of the Food Bank.

Deacon Jerry Pine was the Master of Ceremonies who welcomed everyone and offered the opening prayer. He later saluted and recognized veterans and said prayers before dinner. At the end of the evening, he announced the bid winners of the Silent Auction, the winners of the small raffle prizes, the three Big Raffle prizes, and the winners of the centerpieces on the tables prepared by Classics Flowers.

Deacon Jerry also urged people to patronize the generous benefactors listed in the program booklet and thanked them for their donations for the Silent Auction baskets, the raffles and the centerpieces.

The H.O.P.E. Dinner Dance Committee thanked their members, friends, St. Irenaeus parishioners, community members, and other supporting angels for their generous donations and volunteering of their time to make the event a success.

There were many people who helped to make the H.O.P.E.’s 29th Dinner Dance Fundraiser so special. Dru Moschel and her committee prepared 50 beautiful baskets for the Silent Auction to entice people to place bids on them. Janette and Chuck Shepard prepared the raffle items, and Maria Duhansky oversaw the decorations. Chairperson Bob Sgobba thanked the entire H.O.P.E. Board for all their help.

There is no time for H.O.P.E. members to rest now because they are already preparing for their bi-monthly distribution of food on the first and third Saturdays of each month. They continue to provide help for the homeless, Monday through Friday, at their Christian Service Office at St. Irenaeus Rectory. They are in the process of collecting toys for the children of Food Bank clients and are asking for donations of turkeys for registered families for Christmas.

If anyone would like to donate food items for the H.O.P.E. Food Bank at St. Irenaeus, contact H.O.P.E. members Bob Sgobba at 714-994-0743 or Val Cordova at 714-826-7513.

Lee Elementary names Hero of the Heart 2019

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Lee Elementary names Hero of the Heart 2019

By Robert Ostman

Lee Elementary School has honored Jenny Platt, a long-time volunteer and school parent, as its 2018-19 Hero of the Heart in a presentation before the Los Alamitos Unified school board.

“The community of Lee Elementary School is affectionately known as the FamLEE,” said Principal Amy Laughlin, “and our Jenny Platt is the finest example of a FamLEE member— selfless, caring, empathetic, creative and kind.”

In her eight years of volunteering at Lee, Platt has been PTA Executive Secretary, PTA Auditor, Gently Used Book Sale Coordinator, Kinder Play Date Coordinator, Red Ribbon Week Coordinator, and Teacher Appreciation Chair. Currently, she is the Project LEAP President, PTA Membership Chair, PTA Volunteer Coordinator, PTA Room Parent Lead, room parent in two classrooms, and, Laughlin said, behind the scenes in literally every school function.

“Jenny’s endless energy and dedication to Lee is an inspiration. She puts her heart and soul into every event, simply to make it memorable for all families,” the principal said. “We are fortunate to have Jenny bring so much joy to so many lives.”

Laughlin said Platt is a community leader with deep roots in Los Alamitos. She and her husband, Darrenn, have lived in the community for 24 years. Their oldest son, Dylan, is a Los Alamitos High grad. Their daughter, Emma, is a sixth-grader at Oak, and their youngest children, Landon and Charlotte, attend Lee.

In accepting the award, Platt said she felt blessed and honored. “I am just a teeny tiny part of what makes Lee special. I get to be part of an amazing team of volunteers. I love being at Lee. From the moment I walk on campus every day I feel happy.”

School Board member Diana Hill congratulated Platt and said, “It’s really important to have people like you in our schools and in our community; it’s what makes it really special.”

 

 

Lee Elementary School has honored

 

Jenny Platt, Lee Elementary School volunteer, and school parent, is pictured with Principal Amy Laughlin, right, and School Board member Diana Hill, left.

Jenny Platt, pictured with her family.

 

Cypress Christmas Tree Lighting Dec. 4

David N. Young
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Get the family in the holiday spirit because Santa and his reindeers are coming to Cypress! Join us for the Cypress Holiday Sing and Tree Lighting on Tuesday, December 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Civic Center green, 5275 Orange Avenue.

This festive holiday evening will include performances from local schools, train rides, hot chocolate & cookies, letters to Santa, cards to Veterans, holiday craft, photo booth and a visit from Mr. & Mrs. Claus themselves. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some wonderful holiday memories!

Dinner will also be available for $6, includes tacos or quesadillas, chips, salsa, and a drink. Proceeds benefit the Youth Action Committee of Cypress and La Palma. The event is festival seating, chairs and blankets are highly recommended. Free parking is available in the Civic Center parking lot.

For more information, call Cypress Recreation and Community Services at 714-229-6780.

 

Walker Jr. High Tech Trekkers featured at AUHS District board meetin

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Walker Jr. High Tech Trekkers featured at AUHS District board meetin

By Edna Ethington

Shahan Chejin-Ozturk and Lilly Sierra, eighth grade students at Walker Jr. High School in La Palma, were guest speakers at the November 8, meeting of the Anaheim Union High School District Board of Trustees. Shahan and Lilly each received a $900 sponsorship from the La Palma-Cerritos Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) to attend a one-week STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Tech Trek Camp at Whittier College this past June.

Assistant Superintendent Jaron Fried introduced Edna Ethington as the Co-Coordinator of the La Palma-Cerritos AAAUW’s Tech Trek Committee that selected the Walker students. Mrs. Ethington thanked Superintendent Michael Matsuno, Board President Al Jabbar, Clerk Brian O’Neal and the Members of the Board of Trustees of AUHSD for allowing the students to come and speak about their experiences at the STEM Tech Trek Camp.

Mrs. Ethington then introduced Ms. Tobi Balma, a Charter member of the La Palma-Cerritos AAUW, and one who volunteered as a Dorm Mom for three years at the Whittier College STEM Tech Trek Camp. Balma had prepared a Power Point Presentation that highlighted Shahan and Lilly at the camp and moderated the presentation. She had a wealth of information to share about Tech Trek.

Balma explained that the girls had to have a B grade point average or higher after the first semester of the seventh grade, be nominated by a Math or Science teacher, complete and application which included a 500- word essay on how STEM could improve the world, and finally, be interviewed by the La Palma-Cerritos AAUW’s Tech Trek Committee. Both girls were highly recommended by their Math teach, Mrs. Suzane Duris, and were selected after they were interviewed by the committee.

Balma showed slides that listed the STEM subjects the girls studied at the Tech Trek Camp that included physics, engineering design, neuroscience, coding, food science and aerospace engineering. They also had workshops on cybersecurity, learned about college entrance requirements, took field trips to the Whittier Cadaver Lab and to Cal Poly Pomona for animal and food science. On Professional Women’s Night, the girls were able to meet a zookeeper, a physician and medical researcher, a business consultant, a CPA, a rocket design engineer, and an executive producer for Awestruck You Tube.

Lilly Sierra said that she enjoyed learning about the different careers that the professional women talked about, especially about the zookeeper. She said she took the coding class and now wants to be either a computer scientist or an Engineer.

Shahan said that she learned a lot at the Cadaver Lab and the class on neuroscience. She enjoyed meeting the physician who also did medical research at the Professional Women’s Night. She now says that she wants to study neuroscience more and become a doctor and medical researcher just like the woman who came to speak at Professional Women’s Night.

As the allotted time was ending, Tobi Balma answered questions posed and ended the presentation by thanking the Superintendent and Board of Trustees for listening to the girls and viewing their presentation.

This was the first time that the La Palma-Cerritos Branch of the AAUW sponsored two students from Walker Jr. High School and AUHSD to attend the STEM Tech Trek Camp at Whittier College. The La Palma-Cerritos AAUW has been raising funds so that they can send two more students from Walker Jr. High School to the next STEM Tech Trek Camp at Whittier College in June of 2019. AAUW members want to encourage young middle school girls to study STEM subjects and inspire them to prepare for careers in STEM fields by going to a STEM Tech Trek Camp.

For more information about the STEM Tech Trek Camp at Whittier College, contact Tobi Balma at 562-865-8675.

 

 

 

 

 

Rossmoor Woman’s Club honors Los Al Seniors

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Rossmoor Woman’s Club honors Los Al Seniors

At its November luncheon, the Rossmoor Woman’s Club honored Los Alamitos High School seniors Grace Lu, second from left, and Riley Deutsch, as students of the month for October and November. Grace’s mother, Xin Wang, left, and Riley’s dad, Paul Deutsch, attended the luncheon. Shown at right is Rossmoor Woman’s Club board member Sue Goldberg.

Better grades, literacy go together at Youth Center

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Better grades, literacy go together at Youth Center

By Laurie Hanson

While discovering a love for reading or by receiving tutoring, children at the Youth Center after school programs in Los Alamitos and Rossmoor are improving academically.

For 30 minutes a day kids broaden their horizons and improve literacy skills by reading books donated to the Youth Center. New reading materials are always needed as kids go through their mobile library rapidly.

“We’ve got kids who have fallen in love with books,” said After School Program Director Jay Martz. “They’re always looking for new, more challenging things read, and I believe our literacy program has helped them academically.” The R.A.S.C.A.L.S. Program in Rossmoor Park where the Youth Center’s Reading Program is out of remains affordable at $120 a month per child.

“The R.A.S.C.A.L.S. Program serves as an everyday facilitator to the world of reading,” added Martz. “With their reading program, R.A.S.C.A.L.S. initiates all the members to read to reach their goals and earn special rewards and prizes. As the kids focus in on achieving their goals and earning their prizes, subconsciously all of our members are refining their reading skills.”

According to the National Endowment of the Arts, reading for pleasure correlates with academic achievement and opportunity for future career growth. It is strongly correlated to academic achievement, increased employment opportunities and civic engagement (www.asccc.org/content/reading-may-be-key-unlocking-basic-skills-success).

Besides their literacy program, The Youth Center’s offers very affordable tutoring that is already helping children to improve their grades. Tutoring costs $10 per 30 minute session and can go as long as an hour in duration, and is usually done by high school or college students at either Rossmoor Park or Los Alamitos location.

“Since we have implemented the program we have helped over 18 kids improve their grades! “Martz said. “Our tutoring program facilitates that our members to focus on their homework with a one on one tutor the whole way through. As the sessions progress our members build confidence and self-esteem as they begin to become more proficient in the subject at hand.”

Martz continued, “Some families can’t afford the fee, so we’re reaching out to the community so more kids can benefit from the program. We’ve already got many families on a waiting list in need of financial assistance to be able to participate in the tutoring program. Any and all sponsorships are very much appreciated and welcomed.”

If you’d like to either donate books to the R.A.S.C.A.L.S. Reading Program or help fund students in the Youth Center’s Tutoring Program, please call the office at 562-493-4043. For more information on The Youth Center, visit their website at www.theyouthcenter.org.

Happy Thanksgiving Troops

David N. Young
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Happy Thanksgiving Troops

Troops at the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos invited the community and family members onto the base Thursday to celebrate an early Thanksgiving. The soldiers lined up to enjoy turkey, dressing and all of trimmings as the nation salutes its service members to say thank you for your service.

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