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Congressmen Lowenthal and Fitzpatrick Introduces Bipartisan Bill To Protect Imperiled Seabirds

David N. Young
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Congressmen Lowenthal and Fitzpatrick Introduces Bipartisan Bill To Protect Imperiled Seabirds

Congressman Alan Lowenthal (CA-47) yesterday, joining with Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and 12 House colleagues, introduced legislation to protect imperiled seabirds from international fishing threats while increasing ongoing seabird conservation efforts in the United States and abroad.

The Albatross and Petrel Conservation Act would implement the Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP), an international conservation agreement that has been signed by 13-member countries since 2001 and covers 31 species of albatrosses, petrels and shearwaters. Despite previous calls by President George W. Bush and President Barack Obama to ratify the agreement, the Senate has yet to act.

“This is an opportunity for the United States to resume its leadership role in international conservation efforts,” Congressman Lowenthal said. “It is critical that we implement the ACAP, and in doing so encourage other nations to adopt strong conservation standards and take steps to ensure that foreign fishing vessels follow international conservation measures that protect endangered seabirds.”

Many albatross and petrel species are listed among the most threatened seabirds in the world because of habitat loss and fisheries bycatch (unwanted fish and other marine creatures caught during commercial fishing for a different species), but the U.S. has been a leader in reducing fisheries bycatch.

Compassionate Communication with Someone Who has Memory Loss

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Compassionate Communication with Someone Who has Memory Loss

By Rosemary Lewallen

St. Irenaeus Health Ministry sponsored a powerful and informative workshop, Connecting & Communicating with Someone with Memory Loss: A New Way of Talking, on how to better communicate with a person who has memory loss on Monday, Jan. 28 at St. Irenaeus Parish Hall. About 65 people were in attendance. The primary speaker was Kari Walker, Director of Education at Alzheimer’s Orange County, but there were also representatives from other organizations who spoke about free programs that they offer to give supportive assistance to caregivers and families of people who have memory loss. These included representatives from the Family Caregiver Resource Center, who talked about a care plan and a three-week class for caregivers, and The Council on Aging, who focused on health insurance counseling and HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy).

Kari Walker talked about Alzheimer’s disease as a communication disorder that requires a new way of talking. She said that communication is an art that involves three main components: body language, tone of voice, and content, or actual words. The person who has memory loss may no longer make sense of spoken words, but are most affected by body language, such as gestures, eye contact and posture (55%). Tone of voice is also an important factor of communication (38%). Therefore, giving physical cues, such as handing the toothbrush and paste to the person with memory loss is much more effective than saying, “Brush your teeth.” Also, the manner with which you interact with the patient is vital. Kari quoted Maya Angelou to make her point, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Kari presented a brief overview of Alzheimer’s disease, showing its progression and biological attributes. There are two types of this disease: Early Onset, which accounts for only 2 – 5% of cases, begins before the person is 64 years old and is more progressive, and regular Alzheimer’s disease, which progresses relentlessly over 8 to 10 years and is terminal. Changes due to Alzheimer’s disease include losses in: Memory of how to do everything; Language and communication; Executive functions, such as planning and judgment; Visual and spatial perception, leading to balance issues, and Behavior. She called Alzheimer’s disease a disease of emotions because it causes confusion and discomfort, resulting in behavioral problems. Therefore, we need to find out how to alleviate the person’s confusion and discomfort to calm them. Tools, such as redirecting the person to an activity that they enjoy, such as taking a walk, expressing interest in whatever the person is saying or doing, playing music that they like, and the importance of patience were discussed. Adjusting your approach can make a big difference in improving your relationship with someone who has memory loss. Kari recommended focusing on the person’s remaining skills, not on their losses. Kari encouraged caregivers to go to a support group to learn strategies on how to cope and how to better connect to the person with memory loss.

Vern Atwood from Right At Home spoke briefly about his dream for Cypress to be “dementia friendly”. The odds for getting dementia are 1out of 9 for people over age 65 and 1out of 3 for people who are age 85 or over. We need to reduce the stigma associated with this disease that is afflicting a growing portion of our population.

Jennifer Dagarag, St. Irenaeus’ Faith Community Nurse also spoke about her role in the parish. She invited parishioners to call the parish office for a confidential visit to talk about health and caregiver issues. She also does home visits, can refer you to other helpful resources and can help you navigate the medical system.

If you have any questions, please contact Monica Kovach, Health Ministry Facilitator, at 310-490-611.

Courtesy photos

She Grows Conference Comes to Good Shepherd

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She Grows Conference Comes to Good Shepherd

Modern technology has provided us access to goods and services within reach of our fingertips, at laser fast speed.  But a tradeoff is that within a world that is more digitally and globally connected than ever, we risk losing the face to face connections that nourish and enrich our lives.

Similarly, churches face challenges reaching out to both young and old alike, as they attempt to rekindle these relationships and build connections within the local community.

This quest has propelled Good Shepherd to embark on a Growing Young series.  The goal is to raise awareness of this issue, as well as train people of all ages to reach out to other generations, both within the church and the surrounding community.

Laurie Polich Short

As part of this effort, our Women’s Ministries is featuring a special event for women of all ages. The She Grows Conference featuring Laurie Polich Short and Brooklyn Lindsey is coming to Good Shepherd on Friday evening Mar. 8, from 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Ms. Short is a speaker, author, and part time pastor of Ocean Hills Covenant Church in Santa Barbara, CA.  Ms. Lindsey is a wife, mom, pastor, writer, and international communicator.  Their focus centers on women’s desire to connect and mentor other women across generations, to be empowered to move forward together, while deepening their faith.

SheGrows is a Conference offering: Connection, Worship, Inspiration, and Motivation.  Practical Help, Resources for your Relationships, Multi-Generational Immersion & Global Neighborhood Vision. All women are encouraged to attend from high school through retirement!

The event will be held at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, 11600 Los Alamitos Blvd., Los Alamitos, CA 90720. Interested persons can register at shegrowsconference.com.

Early bird price $39 if registered by 3/3/19 and for more information, contact ca***@**pc.org.

 

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George and Linda Sagen latest royalty in educational fundraising

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George and Linda Sagen latest royalty in educational fundraising

LAEF King and Queen of Hearts crowned with $214,000 raised

The Los Alamitos Education Foundation (LAEF) crowned the King & Queen of Hearts on Feb. 8 at The Grand in Long Beach.  The King and Queen are George and Linda Sagen.  George and Linda have lived in Los Alamitos since 1976 and are parents to three Griffin Graduates. They also have four grandchildren who have attended Los Al schools.

George retired from GRS Construction, a residential construction company.  Linda was the first female president of the LAHS Football booster club and co-established the For the Kids Foundation, which provided additional funds to LAHS sports programs.

All four Royal Court couples’ candidates ended their 9-week fundraising campaign at the Royal Ball and Coronation; the grand fundraising total was over $214,000!  This exceeded the previous record, set during the 2017-18 campaign, of $210,000.  Every dollar that each couple raised counted as a vote, and the Sagens were the top fundraisers.

Carrie Logue, LAEF Executive Director said, “We are ecstatic and humbled by the tremendous amount of time and effort all the couples put into the King & Queen of Hearts campaign.  We are thrilled by the engagement of our community and how the candidates introduced many new people to LAEF’s mission.”

Duke sponsors SXS Industries, Southland Credit Union, Wells Fargo and Jen Rohdenburg Group were on hand to cheer on all the candidates.  The crowd enjoyed music from a jazz combo of Los Alamitos High School students.  Mark Thomas, of On the Mark auctions, served as the Master of Ceremonies.

The 2018-19 Royal Court couples are Jim & Vhenus Belisle (Hopkinson parents, Vhenus: School Psychologist, Jim: Teacher for St. Hedwig and LAEF), Tony & Rachael DeMarco (LAHS parents, Tony: RCSD Board of Directors, Rachael: PTA Executive Board) and Paul & Jen Rohdenburg (McGaugh parents, Paul: ER Doctor, Jen: Real Estate Broker).

LAEF President Kevin Guetig said, “I am truly amazed by the ongoing success of King and Queen of Hearts campaign.  Our fundraising has totaled to over $735,000 over the past six years and Royal Ball attendance has grown to 270 community members.  This will continue to benefit all students as proceeds support our STEAM Initiative (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Math), which provides instruction and fairs on all campuses, and the district-wide STEAM showcase on April 6 at LAHS.  It also supports Media Center teachers at all elementary schools and seed funds to enhance STEAM learning all year long.”

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

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Night Ops bring flood of news reports and citizen frenzy

David N. Young
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Night Ops bring flood of news reports and citizen frenzy

By David N. Young

Even though the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos tried desperately to get the word out to the community in advance, training exercises that brought helicopters and special ops forces to Los Angeles and Long Beach prompted a flurry of television and online speculation last week.

According to a JFTB press release issued before the training, “a visiting U.S. Army aviation unit will conduct training exercises and night flight operations at Los Alamitos Army Airfield (LAAAF) from Feb.3 thru Feb. 9.”

According to the release, the exercises were designed to maintain overall operational readiness and proficiency of the aviators and support personnel and will include periods of increased air traffic.

Further, the release warned residents living near Joint Forces Training Base may hear aircraft arriving and departing outside of normal airfield operating hours and increased aircraft noise during the hours of darkness throughout the training period.

While citizens of Los Al may have been prepared for the night flying activity, citizens of Los Angeles and Long Beach were, on separate nights, apparently surprised and startled when U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopters flew in formation before descending on Wilshire Boulevard and other locations.  Citizens immediately took to Twitter and television as troops initiated what appeared to be special forces missions.

A twitter user identified as Bjam, said “now, I’m not a conspiracy theorist nut, but this was genuinely weird. I was woken up by helicopters & explosions in the middle of the night in one of the most densely populated areas of the city. With no prior notice at all ‘Military Exercises’ Okay sure.”

The furor was so great that it made several live television newscasts as The Los Angeles Police Department and the newscasters had to repeatedly remind citizens that this was ONLY a drill.

In some cases, the sophisticated training involved concussion explosions and troops making building entries, etc.

According to an LAPD press release, “each location selected enables special operations teams and flight crews to maintain maximum readiness and proficiency, validate equipment and exercise standard safety procedures. The training is essential to ensure service members are fully trained and prepared to defend our nation overseas.”

Despite officials best attempts to notify residents, the twittersphere went wild with speculation, with users erroneously claiming they were raiding certain businesses, while others expressed fear with the low flying copters and the troop activity.

According to KTLA, the troops spent two nights with low level activity and mock drills in downtown Los Angeles, then moved to the Port of Long Beach for another simulation the next night.

According to LAPD and JFTB, the training was designed to give the military night training in urban environments and settings.

Officials said the Los Angeles and Long Beach terrain provided unique environments that simulates those when troops will be deployed overseas. All available safety and notification measures were deployed as part of the training, authorities said as the training apparently concluded without incident.

 

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LATV producer John Underwood honored by ACM

David N. Young
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LATV producer John Underwood honored by ACM

By David N. Young

The producer of a documentary highlighting the growing homelessness problem throughout Orange County was presented with an Award of Excellence by the American Alliance for Community Media during their annual convention in Long Beach.

John Underwood, a producer/host for the Los Alamitos Community Television (LATV) thanked the Alliance for their focus on preserving community television and said he was honored by the recognition.

For more than a decade, Underwood has focused his “Backstory” docuseries on a variety of issues, including homelessness.

The program for which Underwood was honored, “Backstory: Homeless in OC,” focused on the fallout from the judicial action that forced the breakup of a huge homeless encampment on the Santa Ana Riverbed

Homelessness is a problem now faced by all cities in Orange County, said Underwood, noting that federal judge David O. Carter has ruled that all 34 OC cities “must be involved in a real way” in determining a long-term solution to the homeless.

His program covered the breakup of the Riverbed encampment, calling it a “fiasco” that resulted in the overflow of homeless into parks and all of the “darker corners of Orange County.”

Every OC city was impacted by the event, he said, including Los Alamitos. He said between 20-30 homeless citizens show up at Judy’s Kitchen in Los Alamitos on Saturday’s when the invite the homeless for a meal.

Underwood said he is now at work at a full-length documentary on the next phase of involvement where as much as half-a-billion dollars could pour into the county.

“There could be as much as $500 million allocated for a solution,” said Underwood, which could catch the interest of serious developers and others “seeking to profit” from the crisis.

The current winter, cold and rainy, “has been brutal” on the homeless in Orange County, said Underwood. Mass warehousing of the homeless has been problematic and the local producer is promising to train his cameras on the expected flood of resources when they pour in to find “a

real continuum for care and transitional housing for the homeless.”

The Los Al TV station is among hundreds of community TV stations and public media across the country seeking to preserve local community television.

Underwood was an editor and investigative reporter for the News Enterprise from 2003-2007 before joining Los Al TV.

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Garcia receives Chamber “Citizen of the Year” awar

David N. Young
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Garcia receives Chamber “Citizen of the Year” awar

By David N. Young

Art Garcia, a well-established Los Alamitos restaurateur, finally received his “Citizen of the Year” award this week as the Chamber held its monthly networking breakfast.

Among other community activities, Garcia is best known for his annual feeding of a steak dinner with all the trimmings to gravely disabled vets in the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Long Beach on Christmas Day.

“Thank you very much,” said the soft-spoken businessman, saying he appreciated the recognition by the Chamber but gave all the glory to God. “This is God’s opportunity to reach out to our veterans,” he told the Chamber.

Ironically, the meeting was held at Maderas Steak and Ribs in Los Alamitos, a fine dining restaurant Garcia has long operated. He’s been in the business between Long Beach and Los Al for more than four decades.

In accepting the award, Garcia said he ended up with more donations than required so the effort begins this year with money in the bank. And, while he fed 90 veterans this year, Garcia said he “found another wing” of the VA hospital so he will try to raise enough volunteers and money to feed 210 veterans this year.

Garcia recounted later his visit with one veteran who had served in Korea, Vietnam and the Iraq Gulf War. “He was in so much pain,” said Garcia, saying he felt helpless but empowered just knowing the man appreciated the recognition and dinner at Christmas. Garcia said he thanked the man for his service and the man told him “I’d do it all again.”

Just a week ago, said Garcia, a discharged veteran showed up at his restaurant “just to shake my hand” and say thanks. “That’s what it is all about.”

Los Al Mayor Pro Tem Richard Murphy along with representatives of Assemblyman Tyler Diep and Orange County Supervisor Michelle Steele were also there to offer recognition to Garcia.

In other action, the Chamber;

  • Heard tax professional Roger Mayeda advise Chamber members to ask about some serious changes in the federal income tax code following the Congressional passage of tax reform. Many of the changes are now in effect and could have significant impacts and potential savings for businesses, he said. Also, he said, there are many areas of incongruence between the federal code and the state of California so tax filers should exert extra diligence this year.
  • Listened to a presentation by Richard Heim, a former tech entrepreneur now selling Aflac insurance. He demonstrated the differences between monetary and benefit compensation and said with all of the changes in healthcare benefits over the past decade, Aflac offers unique ways to increase compensation without affecting the bottom line of a business.
  • Heard Emeline Noda, representing the city of Los Alamitos, give an update on the upcoming “Race on the Base.”

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McAuliffe Middle School honors audio engineer Lee Nestlerode

David N. Young
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McAuliffe Middle School honors audio engineer Lee Nestlerode

McAuliffe Middle School has honored Lee Nestlerode as its 2019 Hero of the Heart for his 13 years of volunteer service in transforming the sound systems for the school’s choir, band, and drama programs.

Shannon Wallace, who directs the McAuliffe choir program, said that when Nestlerode first volunteered, “our program had only 60 students, a couple of computer speakers, and a microphone.” Nestlerode, who had two children then attending McAuliffe, assembled a new system out of parts he cobbled together and since then has dedicated himself to expanding and improving it, Wallace said, long after his children graduated.

“He designed the sound system in the choir room, dance room, and our newly refurbished MPR,” she said. “He builds sets and installs equipment. He helps to maintain and upgrade the facility, make repairs, and do whatever odd job we need.  I just couldn’t do what I do without him. The McAuliffe community is endlessly grateful for his service.”

Nestlerode thanked Wallace and Principal Ryan Weiss-Wright for the award and said, “It’s wonderful to be part of the school district’s team.”

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Rossmoor Elementary cook named District employee of the year

David N. Young
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Rossmoor Elementary cook named District employee of the year

The woman responsible for putting food on the trays for students at Rossmoor Elementary has been honored as a Classified Employee of the Year by the Los Alamitos Unified School District.

Imelda Hernandez, who has worked for the district for eight years, “cooks and serves, but she also brightens the room with her warm smile,” said Celeste Calubaquib, Food Services Director for the district.

Hernandez works two jobs, Calubaquib said, “but when she comes to us, she always is ready to take care of our children with tender, loving care. She makes them feel special, she remembers their birthdays and when they are having a not so happy day, she tries to brighten them up.”

Amy Belsha, Rossmoor principal, also praised Hernandez for her positive spirit and “doing what it takes every day.”

In congratulating Hernandez on her award, School Board President Diana Hill said, “Years will go by and you will think back at how many different lives you touched.”

Hernandez thanked her family and coworkers. “I wouldn’t be here without their support,” she said. She also thanked a group of Rossmoor students in attendance at the award presentation for “remembering their lunch (ID) numbers every day. And don’t forget to take fruits and veggies.”

Courtesy photo

 

 

 

Los Al Wrestlers qualify for CIF Tourney

David N. Young
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Los Al Wrestlers qualify for CIF Tourney

The Los Alamitos High School Wrestling Team was one short of a dozen team members qualifying for this year’s CIF-SS Individual Championships this year, according to a spokesman for the team. Those qualifying were Dylan Sugihara, Walter Kowaleski, Cade Poe, Conor Uyekawa, Kobe Kim, TJ Sylvia, Dylan, Anderson, Kaleo Cook, Armando Sandoval, Anthony Davalos and Nolan Dougherty. Three of them, Sylvia, Anderson and Poe, who won individual Sunset League titles this year. Seniors Kim and Kowaleski both advanced to the CIF-SS Masters, at 120 and 152 pounds, respectively. They will compete at Cerritos College, starting Friday.  Photo by Tom Sugihara

Leanne Voigt honored for years of service to students, families

David N. Young
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Leanne Voigt honored for years of service to students, families

McGaugh Elementary School has honored Leanne Voigt, a long-time volunteer and school parent, as its 2019 Hero of the Heart in a presentation before the Los Alamitos Unified school board.

“To give real service you must add something that cannot be bought or measured with money and that is sincerity and integrity,” said Principal Roni Ellis. “I don’t know that we could pick a better person who models those qualities.”

Voigt, a Seal Beach resident whose three children all have attended McGaugh, has volunteered as a room parent for 10 years while also serving as President of Project Seek — the major fundraising group at the school — for two years, vice-president of the PTA, parent coordinator for the 4th-grade Sacramento trip, 5th-grade activities director, book fair chair, art lab volunteer, liaison for the annual Pageant of the Arts, and leader of efforts in the school community to pass the Measure G bond issue.

Ellis said Voigt is “talented, creative and always present. You are gracious, kind, highly skilled— a great role model. We could not be prouder of you, and we are sincerely grateful for what you’ve done for us.”

In accepting the award, Voigt said she chose to serve the school community because she loves doing it and because “it’s been a privilege. I am really humbled by this.”

 

Courtesy photo

Caption: Laurie Voight

Woman’s Club of Cypress donates to Fisher House

Brooklynn Wong
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Woman’s Club of Cypress donates to Fisher House

The Woman’s Club of Cypress recently presented a $450 check to Fisher House to further their mission of providing temporary, no-cost lodging for the families of veterans and military service members receiving care at the VA Long Beach Healthcare System.

The donation was made possible through the Woman’s Club annual holiday card project led by Chairs Sandy Montez and Linda Keenan.

“Fisher House offers peace of mind and hope to our military, veterans and their families during difficult times,” said Montez.

“We are honored to support the cause and share our appreciation and support for their sacrifices,” said Keenan.

“Throughout the year, club members raise money to support college scholarships and donations to charitable causes,” said Janssen. “Our focus is on friendship with a purpose and we are pleased to be able to support the work of Fisher House at our nearby facility for veterans. We want to thank Cypress Mayor Stacy Berry for assisting us with the check presentation.”

The Woman’s Club of Cypress is a local nonprofit service organization of women actively involved in various volunteer and charitable works in the community. For more information about the Woman’s Club of Cypress, please visit the club’s website: www.wccypress.org or email for more information to WC*********@***il.com.

 

Courtesy photo

 

Compassionate Communication with Someone Who has Memory Loss

David N. Young
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0
Compassionate Communication with Someone Who has Memory Loss

By Rosemary Lewallen

St. Irenaeus Health Ministry sponsored a powerful and informative workshop, Connecting & Communicating with Someone with Memory Loss: A New Way of Talking, on how to better communicate with a person who has memory loss on Monday, Jan. 28 at St. Irenaeus Parish Hall. About 65 people were in attendance. The primary speaker was Kari Walker, Director of Education at Alzheimer’s Orange County, but there were also representatives from other organizations who spoke about free programs that they offer to give supportive assistance to caregivers and families of people who have memory loss. These included representatives from the Family Caregiver Resource Center, who talked about a care plan and a three-week class for caregivers, and The Council on Aging, who focused on health insurance counseling and HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy).

Kari Walker talked about Alzheimer’s disease as a communication disorder that requires a new way of talking. She said that communication is an art that involves three main components: body language, tone of voice, and content, or actual words. The person who has memory loss may no longer make sense of spoken words, but are most affected by body language, such as gestures, eye contact and posture (55%). Tone of voice is also an important factor of communication (38%). Therefore, giving physical cues, such as handing the toothbrush and paste to the person with memory loss is much more effective than saying, “Brush your teeth.” Also, the manner with which you interact with the patient is vital. Kari quoted Maya Angelou to make her point, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

Kari presented a brief overview of Alzheimer’s disease, showing its progression and biological attributes. There are two types of this disease: Early Onset, which accounts for only 2 – 5% of cases, begins before the person is 64 years old and is more progressive, and regular Alzheimer’s disease, which progresses relentlessly over 8 to 10 years and is terminal. Changes due to Alzheimer’s disease include losses in: Memory of how to do everything; Language and communication; Executive functions, such as planning and judgment; Visual and spatial perception, leading to balance issues, and Behavior. She called Alzheimer’s disease a disease of emotions because it causes confusion and discomfort, resulting in behavioral problems. Therefore, we need to find out how to alleviate the person’s confusion and discomfort to calm them. Tools, such as redirecting the person to an activity that they enjoy, such as taking a walk, expressing interest in whatever the person is saying or doing, playing music that they like, and the importance of patience were discussed. Adjusting your approach can make a big difference in improving your relationship with someone who has memory loss. Kari recommended focusing on the person’s remaining skills, not on their losses. Kari encouraged caregivers to go to a support group to learn strategies on how to cope and how to better connect to the person with memory loss.

Vern Atwood from Right At Home spoke briefly about his dream for Cypress to be “dementia friendly”. The odds for getting dementia are 1out of 9 for people over age 65 and 1out of 3 for people who are age 85 or over. We need to reduce the stigma associated with this disease that is afflicting a growing portion of our population.

Jennifer Dagarag, St. Irenaeus’ Faith Community Nurse also spoke about her role in the parish. She invited parishioners to call the parish office for a confidential visit to talk about health and caregiver issues. She also does home visits, can refer you to other helpful resources and can help you navigate the medical system.

If you have any questions, please contact Monica Kovach, Health Ministry Facilitator, at 310-490-611.

 

 

CIF Commissioner Lauded for Longtime Support of Schools

David N. Young
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CIF Commissioner Lauded for Longtime Support of Schools

The Los Alamitos Unified School District has honored Rob Wigod as its 2019 Hero of the Heart for his service to students and the district. Wigod, Commissioner of Athletics for the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) Southern Section, is a former teacher and coach for Los Alamitos High School and has volunteered in many fundraising and service capacities.

School Board President Diana Hill praised Wigod as “a positive ambassador for youth who has been there district wide for every school.” Even as CIF Commissioner, Hill said, Wigod has demonstrated that “he believes all kids need to be connected to school.”

As a fund raiser, Wigod has “brought in thousands of dollars” through events such as Taste of Los Al, and most recently, he was a leader of the citizen’s group that campaigned for the recent passage of the Measure G school bond that will be used for construction of a new high school classroom building and other district projects.

District Superintendent Dr. Sherry Kropp said that “in a district where we say, ‘All in all the time,’ he is everywhere all the time advocating for and supporting young people.  He is all about fairness, access, and equity for all kids.”

Even on rough days, Kropp said, Wigod wears “that perfect smile and ever-present optimism.”

Wigod, whose two daughters graduated from Los Alamitos High, said he was blown away to be honored by the district. “A lot has been said about what I’ve done,” he said, “but it was all only in response to what this district has done and how great it has been to me and my family. I just can’t say enough about what great hands our young people are in.”

 

Boys & Girls Club of Cypress names 2019 Youth of the Year

Brooklynn Wong
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Boys & Girls Club of Cypress names 2019 Youth of the Year

On Friday, Jan. 25, the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress selected its 2019 Youth of the Year. Being named Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Boys & Girls Club member can receive. Since 1947, Youth of the Year has been Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premiere recognition program, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of Club members. Youth of the Year recognizes outstanding contributions to a member’s family, school, community and Boys & Girls Club, as well as overcoming personal challenges and obstacles.

Youth of the Year encourages Club members to reach their full potential by achieving academic success, leading healthy lifestyles and contributing to their communities.

Since the start of the school year Boys & Girls Club of Cypress’ Keystone Club has been working with its members to further hone their leadership skills. This year two teen candidates, Katelyn R. and David O. met all of the necessary criteria in order to compete for the title of Cypress Youth of the Year. After a rigorous judging process comprised of writing essays, completing an application, and interviewing in front of a panel of four Boys & Girls Club of Cypress Board Members, a difficult decision had to be made.

Both teens did a phenomenal job and embodied the characteristics of Youth of the Year. So Katelyn was named Girl of the Year and David was named Boy of the Year.

These amazing Youth of the Year candidates are shining examples and living proof that great futures start at Boys & Girls Clubs.

After much deliberation and careful consideration by the judges, David O. was named the 2019 Boys & Girls Club of Cypress Youth of the Year. As Keystone Club President, active in County-wide activities for Club teens, a Club Ambassador at numerous community events, David has been a positive influence at the Club and in the community throughout the year. David has also helped choreograph the Judgement Free Dance Competition with Planet Fitness, designed Club Holiday Greeting Cards, volunteered at the annual Halloween Carnival and participated in several Club fundraisers like Buddy Boxes for Veterans, Supplies for Animal Rescue, Food Drives for We Care and many others.

The announcement was made in front of his peers, Board Members Angie Ray and Sheri Whitney, and Boys & Girls Club staff. David will now move on to compete in the county-wide Youth of the Year competition, which will be held at the Discovery Cube in Santa Ana on Friday, March 8. The winner of that competition will then have the opportunity to move on to state, regional and eventually national competitions for the title of Boys & Girls Clubs of America Youth of the Year.

 

 

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Oral Health and the Opioid Epidem

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Oral Health and the Opioid Epidem

By Dr. John Chang,

Chief Medical Director for UnitedHealthcare located in Cypress

The opioid epidemic is affecting countless lives and communities across the country, including here in California. In fact, opioids each day cause more than 130 overdose deaths in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC); and the economic cost exceeds $500 billion annually, according to a study from The Council of Economic Advisors.

Painkilling prescriptions are often necessary and useful for some medical conditions; however, these powerful drugs – such as oxycodone or codeine – come with a high risk of misuse and addiction. This is especially true for teens and young adults, in part because adolescent brains are not fully matured and are therefore more susceptible to the effects of opioids.

One potentially overlooked aspect of the opioid epidemic is the connection to oral health. In fact, oral health professionals write 12 percent of all opioid prescriptions, including 45 percent of opioid prescriptions for adolescents, according to a UnitedHealthcare analysis of claims data.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, an opportunity to recognize the risks for young people – and provide a reminder for parents – about the connection between oral health and opioids. With that in mind, here is information for people to consider:

Wisdom Teeth: More than 5 million people had their wisdom teeth removed last year, mostly teens and young adults. While the decision to remove wisdom teeth should involve professional advice from a dentist or oral surgeon, patients and parents should also be aware of the risks associated with potential exposure to opioids following this procedure. For many young people, wisdom teeth extraction often represents their first exposure to opioids, and a recent study from Stanford University found that teens can end up in a battle with opioid additional following this procedure.

Limit Supply: Other than in extreme cases, it is important to limit prescriptions for the minimum appropriate dosage and number of days, which the CDC recommends at three days and fewer than 50 morphine milligram equivalents per day. This is because the likelihood for chronic opioid use increases after the third day of use and rises rapidly thereafter, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and misuse or dependence on opioids can lead to addiction to more powerful illicit drugs.

Alternative Pain Medications: If you or a loved one is prescribed an opioid following a dental procedure or another medical event, it is good to ask your health care professional if there are alternatives, including over-the-counter pain relievers such as a combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen. In many cases, these medications can be equally effective in pain management, without the risk of addiction.

Proper Disposal: Approximately 70 percent of misused opioid prescriptions were obtained, stolen or purchased from a friend or relative, according to the CDC. That’s why it is important to keep opioids in a safe place – like a locked cabinet – and always properly dispose of unused medications. That can include returning the drugs to your pharmacy, or mixing them with water and an unappealing substance, such as cat litter, and putting in the trash (if simply thrown in the trash, unused prescription drugs can be retrieved and misused).

Addressing the connection between oral health and opioids is one part of curbing this epidemic. For more information about how we can work together to confront this important public health issue, visit: https://newsroom.uhc.com/opioids.html.

 

Rossmoor Elementary honors alum for service

David N. Young
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Rossmoor Elementary honors alum for service

Rossmoor Elementary has honored one of its own as its 2019 Hero of the Heart for her years of service to the school. Janet Murphy, who attended Rossmoor as a child, has volunteered in many capacities for nine years.

In presenting Murphy with her award before the Los Alamitos Unified School Board, Principal Amy Belsha said she “one of a kind and truly believes that the partnership with the community, parents, and teachers is crucial for us all to provide unlimited possibilities for all our students.”

Murphy has always gone “above and beyond to help make Rossmoor Elementary an amazing place for our Knights,” Belsha said. “Everyone knows that if there is a task that may not get a volunteer, Janet would make it happen in the end even if that meant doing it herself.”

Murphy was Rossmoor PTA president for two years and is the current president of the Los Alamitos PTA Council. She has served as a classroom volunteer in her two children’s classrooms and assisted in a many campus projects, including carnival, Rossmoor Campout, Monday Messages, Tree Lot, Staff Appreciation and Variety Show.

In accepting the award, Murphy said volunteering at Rossmoor Elementary “is my hobby and my passion.  It is what makes me feel enriched and satisfied.”

 

Courtesy photo

 

 

 

Rossmoor crossing guard among best in the nation

Robert Ostmann
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Rossmoor crossing guard among best in the nation

Tom Germscheid makes prestigious list

Article by Robert Ostmann,

Los Alamitos Unified School District

Tom Germscheid, a brightly-vested fixture seen twice a day outside Rossmoor Elementary School, has been named one of the Top 10 crossing guards in the nation.

Germscheid received about 2,000 votes and placed 10th in the nation in the America’s Favorite Crossing Guard competition.

A U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War, Germscheid managed a doctor’s office for 27 years. When he retired, he wanted to find a way to “give back to the community that has been so good to my family,” he said.

Protecting its children is the most responsible and rewarding position that I could hope to hold.”

Germscheid has served as a crossing guard at Rossmoor for the past four years. Children and parents know him well, calling out greetings on a recent morning as they crossed the large and busy intersection of Montecito Rd. and Shakespeare Dr. He responded cheerily but kept his eyes focused on the streets. Frequent close calls between cars and kids mean “I’ve got to keep my head on pivot!” he said.

“The joy that they give me and the satisfaction in the job, it’s indescribable. Just to see their faces every morning, it’s a pleasure,” Germscheid said. “I lose my fifth graders at the end of the year, and then I’ve got new kindergartners coming in and I have to learn a lot of new names.”

Rossmoor Principal Amy Belsha said Germscheid is more than just a crossing guard. “Our Knights and families look forward to his warm smile as he greets our community each morning.  He is part of the Rossmoor family!”

Although he came in at No. 10 nationwide, Germscheid showed no trace of disappointment in the ranking.

“Being the favorite of the families whose children that I cross on a daily basis is all that matters to me.”

 

Valentines Day for Care Center Residents is Every Day in Feb. at St. Irenaeus

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Valentines Day for Care Center Residents is Every Day in Feb. at St. Irenaeus

By Rosemary Lewallen

St. Irenaeus Health Ministry members asked parishioners to pick Valentine cards hand decorated by Junior High Peacemakers and deliver them personally any day during the month of February to residents of four of the Care Centers that St. Irenaeus’ Health Ministry serves. These facilities are: Sunrise Assisted Living in La Palma; Harvest Retirement in Buena Park; Genesis in Anaheim and Healthcare Center of Orange County in Buena Park.  There were 100 Valentine packets distributed. The card and the friendly visit will put a smile on the faces of those residents who receive them and let them know that they are not forgotten, but are an important part of our parish.

Grace, Francis, Chair of Care Facilities Ministry, Valentine Outreach.

Monica Kovach, Facilitator of the Health Ministry Board, and Grace Francis, Chair of Care Facilities Ministry, thank the students who made the Valentine’s Day cards and all of the caring parishioners who agreed to deliver them during the month of February. This Valentine’s Day Outreach could only be possible with the generous response of St. Irenaeus parishioners.

For more information about the Valentine Outreach at St. Irenaeus Church, please contact Monica Kovach 310-490-6113.

Photos and I.D. by Rosemary Lewallen

 

 

Los Al Medical honors volunteer stroke survivors

David N. Young
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Los Al Medical honors volunteer stroke survivors

Los Al Medical Center awards volunteer stroke survivors as Heidi Taylor, Los Alamitos Comprehensive Stroke Program Manager speaks to a group of volunteer stroke survivors before handing out appreciation awards for their dedication to Los Alamitos Medical Center. The volunteers, all survivors of strokes, assist the hospital in a variety of ways but especially in training nurses for stroke certification. Los Al Medical Center is becoming one of the top stroke treatment facilities in the region. Those awarded include Sara Braver, Brian Murray, Faustino Racoma, Phyllis Wertz, Ronald Wingard and Steve Zeyak.

Courtesy photo

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