The public is invited to St. Irenaeus Health Ministry’s Workshop on Human Trafficking and learn “Why Our Community Needs to join the Fight Against Human Trafficking” on Monday, May 22 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at St. Irenaeus Parish Hall, 5201 Evergreen Ave. in Cypress.
Susan Patterson, Director of Through God’s Grace Ministry, an Advocate in the Fight Against Human Trafficking, and Author of the book, “How You Can Fight Human Trafficking, Over 50 Ways to Join the Fight,” will be the guest speaker at the St. Irenaeus Health Ministry Workshop on Human Trafficking.
Her main focus as an advocate is working with faith communities to facilitate them in taking action to do what God has called them to do to fight against Human Trafficking and prevent our youth, and adults also, from becoming victims of predators.
Human Trafficking is now the second largest and fastest growing illegal criminal enterprise in the United States and is predicted to surpass drugs in a few years.
According to the Center for Missing and Exploited Children, over 100,000 kids under age 18 are victimized each year with 70 percent of victims being U.S. citizens and 82 percent involved in sex trafficking.
The Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force (OCHTTF) Victim Report for 2015 identified 225 Human Trafficking victims in Orange County who received services or assistance from them. This includes a Cypress man convicted on March 20 of using social media with the intent of committing lewd acts on a child younger than 14.
Adults, especially parents, guardians, grandparents, youth leaders, teachers, health providers, teachers and also teenagers 14 years of age and older, are invited to come to the workshop and learn how to recognize Human Trafficking and learn what they can do to stop Human Trafficking.
Lucy Park, a representatives from OCHTTF and Kathi Miranda, from ”Stand Up for Kids,” will have additional information and resources available for people who would like to actively join the fight and help victims of Human Trafficking .
This is a free workshop and reservations are not required. Refreshments will be available at the meeting. For more information, contact Monica Kovach at 310-490-6113.
Join the fight against human trafficking
Los Al’s Village 605 facing lawsuit
Once more, the Village 605 project in Los Alamitos has come across another hurdle. This time it’s in the form of a lawsuit.
Lincoln Property Company, the developer of the project located at the property adjacent to Los Alamitos City Hall, has been slapped with a suit, which claims the developer violated the California Public Resources Code and the city’s Municipal Code.
In its suit filed March 2, the Inland Oversight Committee, a nonprofit, claims that Lincoln, along with the city of Los Alamitos, violated those codes when it canceled an administrative-appeal hearing back in January.
“In this case, the developer bought off the ‘concerned citizen’ who filed the appeal that everyone else was relying on to get their day in front of the City Council on this disastrous project,” said Cory J. Briggs, who’s the attorney representing the Committee. “And an unelected bureaucrat went along with the plan to keep the public from airing its concerns and to keep the politicians in the dark.”
As a result, the Committee is seeking to void Los Al City Council’s approval of the project and is also seeking a new environmental impact report for the project, paid for by the developer.
Lincoln officials however, say it acted in “good faith in order to successfully resolve matters with the one person who did appeal the project” in January, “and that [the] appeal was withdrawn in exact accordance with the City’s Municipal Code,” according to Parke Miller, Lincoln’s executive vice president.
“It is unfortunate that an Inland Empire-based third party that did not follow the city’s appeal procedures has now chosen to litigate,” said Miller. “The petitioner did not comment on or participate in the Planning Commission’s proceedings on the Village 605 project, and did not appeal the project approval to the City Council.”
City officials have expressed the same sentiment, taking it a step further saying they “believe there is no merit to the lawsuit,” according to Los Alamitos City Manager Bret Plumlee. “Neither the Public Resources Code nor the Municipal Code requires the City to go forward with a hearing after the Appellant withdraws his hearing request.”
However, Briggs is confident in the Committee’s lawsuit.
“My client would not have sued if it ultimately expected to lose,” said Briggs.
Currently the suit is in a sort of limbo between courthouses due to a mishap when it was originally filed, said Plumlee.
“No hearing dates have been set as the case was erroneously filed in Los Angeles County and has not yet been transferred to a specific courtroom in Orange County,” said Plumlee.
The city is currently preparing an “administrative record” for the case, said Plumlee.
Miller says Lincoln is cooperating with the city in defense of the case.
Though it is still unclear when the suit might be heard in court as nothing has changed with its transfer status as of this writing, Briggs said that he expects the case to probably go to trial either by the end of this year or the beginning of next year.
If the suit is heard in January, that would mark a year since the administrative-appeal was canceled, which sparked this litigation.
In his appeal filed Dec. 6, 2016, Nathan Pinson, who’s a resident of Seal Beach, originally challenged the Los Alamitos Planning Commission’s traffic analysis of the project and its approval of a height variance allowing the construction of a 120-foot freeway pylon sign on the property, located at 3131 Katella Ave.
A hearing was scheduled for Jan. 30 with Los Al’s City Council, but Pinson withdrew his appeal a day before after reaching an “agreement” with the city and Lincoln, “that includes a significant reduction in the size and height of the proposed sign, removal of the sign’s digital screens, additional traffic safety enhancements for the community, and a sizable donation for school children safety purposes at Oak Middle School,” according to a statement sent out by his attorney Brandon Roesler.
Roesler declined to comment for this story.
The day the hearing was canceled, Los Alamitos City Clerk Windmera Quintanar sent out a press release listing the changes to the project agreed upon, which included:
“• Limiting the maximum height of the pylon sign to no more than 90 feet.
• Limiting the maximum size of each sign face on the pylon sign to no more than 2000 square feet.
• The developer will not include a digital screen component in the sign.
• The developer will cause count-down crosswalk signaling devices to be installed at the crosswalks at the intersection of Katella Avenue and Civic Center Drive, which is among the intersections covered by the permits.
• The developer will tender a sum for enhancing traffic safety for school children at Oak Middle School.”
Los Alamitos Show Choirs win fourth championship
The National Show Choir season came to a triumphant end last weekend.
Los Alamitos High School’s SoundTRAX (advanced women) and SoundFX (advanced mixed) placed first in their respective divisions, which earned them the title of National Grand Champions at the FAME Show Choir National Finals at the Arie Crown Theater in Chicago for the fourth year in a row.
The grand champion choirs each won awards for best show design, best choreography and best vocals with SoundTRAX also garnering the best costume award.
Sophia Wackerman and Malia Rivers were named the best female soloists of the evening, and Justin Min captured the award for best male stage presence.
There are 60 students in each group, and the seniors have never lost a championship.
ABC and CBS greeted them at the airport to help capture this special moment for the Griffins.
Director David Moellenkamp said, “This was truly the best performance of the year. The groups all become such a family unit and the love that they share for the group and each other shines through. The judges were impressed with the choral sound and dynamic choreography. They commented that the kids looked as though they were having the best time of their lives up on stage.”
Director David Moellenkamp also received the Aspire Vocal Vanguard Award for excellence and innovation in directing.
“Mr. Moellenkamp is beyond amazing,” said Superintendent Sherry Kropp. “His dedication to our students and families to provide once-in-a-lifetime opportunities is inspiring, and his challenge to students to give back to others and the community makes the world a better place.”
Though the show choir season is over, the hard work doesn’t end. Students are back to rehearsals this week for their upcoming musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”. The one night only performance will feature many of the students who performed in Chicago.
Tickets are available now at www.seatyourself.biz/losalchoir for the May 12 performance at Cottonwood Auditorium.
This article appeared in the April 26, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Student musicians hold All-District concert
With a wide-range of ages and talents, The Youth Center Music Program students participated in the All District Band and Orchestra Festival at Los Alamitos High School on Feb. 11. Kids as young as kindergarteners through high school performed for parents, relatives and on-lookers.
“I love this event because it gives our families an opportunity to see our [music] program from pre school to high school,” said Los Alamitos Unified School District Superintendent Sherry Kropp. “It gives us an opportunity to celebrate music.”
Youth Center Music Program student Carlos Barcelo, 14, and his brother Daniel Barcelo, 10, performed before a crowd of about 900 in the high school gym. According to their mother, Maria Barcelo, they take after their father, Rey, who plays several musical instruments. Both boys play the saxophone just like him, but have played other instruments including piano and violin. She said their teachers say they are musically inclined.
Carlos, an 8th grader at Oak Middle School, has been playing tenor saxophone for three years and says that playing a musical instrument is “riveting and filled with excitement.” With plans of eventually playing in the Los Alamitos High School band and jazz bands, he especially likes playing solo pieces as it has taught him how to be more creative and confident.
His younger brother Daniel, a 4th grader at Lee Elementary School, has been playing alto saxophone for two years and intends to keep playing although he’s not too certain about playing in high school because he’s only in elementary school. However, he enjoys being in performances, and loves listening to the cheers of the audience. “Playing alto sax has allowed me to become less nervous in front of an audience,” he said. “I love playing and it makes me happy!”
“Both boys like being creative composing music and have a lot of fun playing,” said their mother. “It’s helped them with other subjects such as reading and writing. It’s taught them how to be disciplined, motivated to work hard and achieve. It’s broadened their horizons and they feel accomplished.” Ultimately she hopes that in now gaining a love and appreciation for music, that they will use it later in life. “The fact that they understand music is beneficial,” she said. “They can take it up later or use it for employment such as being a music teacher.”
Other parents like Kierth and Jamie Hislop, watched and listened to their children perform at the festival as well. They believe learning a musical instrument is important for their son’s sense of achievement. Ritchie, 10, attends Rossmoor Elementary School and is a first year trumpet student with interests in learning the saxophone. Although he loves sports, he hopes to continue with music in high school.
“Playing a musical instrument makes him feel proud of himself,” said his mother. “He feels like he has achieved a goal since he has always [wanted] to learn.”
“I think he took after me as I’m more into music than my wife,” said Kierth who plays the piano and guitar. “Playing a musical instrument has benefitted him just in the fact that he enjoys the challenge of learning to how to play. It helps him with confidence and not to be too nervous about performing before a large audience although this is his first all-district music concert.”
According to Cara Guggino, her 10-year-old son Jason gained confidence by performing at the music festival. The Rossmoor Elementary School 5th grader has played the trumpet for two years, and has gained a different perspective on life, she said.
“It’s going to help him in the future with public speaking,” said Guggino who plays the piano and clarinet. Her daughter, Joanna, is also musically inclined and sings in the choir at McAuliffe Middle School. “I hope they learn continued confidence by building step-by-step growth to see the rewards of their hard work.”
This article appeared in the April 26, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
First place finish for Color Guard
The Los Alamitos High School Color Guard captured first place in a Winter Guard Association of Southern California competition in the SAAA Round 3 category at Arcadia High School on Saturday, April 15. The Color Guard will be competing this Saturday, April 22 at the WGASC Championships at Fountain Valley High School.
Youth Center raises more than $200,000
Victorious in its month-long 2017 Community Support Campaign fundraising efforts, The Youth Center in Los Alamitos surpassed its goal of raising $150,000 by raising more than $202,000.
“We did it!” said Campaign Chairperson Gina Phillips. “We’d like to thank all the contributors, board members, staff and volunteers for making it a success!”
The money raised helps sustain the center’s efforts to make a difference in the lives of children and their families in the coming year.
More than 100 campaigners turned to the community to raise the necessary funds that drive all The Youth Center’s programs which annually impact more than 3,000 children. Activities benefiting from their efforts include their After School Programs, elementary school age Music Program, their new Summer Camp S.H.A.R.K., Teen Camp, Leadership Academy and the Every 15 Minutes bi-annual teen drunk driving determent event at Los Alamitos High School, which was recently held in March.
“Many of our parents benefit directly from our efforts in the form of full or partial scholarships so their children are able to participate in our activities,” said Executive Director Lina Lumme. “This year, the need was greater than in the past for scholarships. We look forward to helping many thanks to generous contributions from the community.”
The Youth Center is funded by their efforts during campaign for the year ahead, and does not receive any governmental support. Through collaborative social, educational and recreational programs for kids ages 5 to 17, the nonprofit has been making a difference in Los Alamitos and the surrounding communities for more than 65 years.
“We’re here for all the kids and their families,” said Lumme. “We’re here to enrich their lives, and we never turn them away for an inability to pay. It’s a part of who we are, dedicated and deeply rooted in the community.”
Coming this summer is The Youth Center’s new Camp S.H.A.R.K. (Science, Hands On & Happy, Art and Action, Recreation, Knowledge) which offers kids ages 5 to 12 a marine biology perspective with activities and themes as well as new classes. Classes include snorkeling certification, build it Lego robotics, wacky tennis academy and soccer camps, junior journalist class, junior reporter and TV star class, and The Voice singing class as well as Percussion/Rhythm Around the World. Optional new field trips include going to the Cabrillo Aquarium, boarding tall ships at the Los Angeles Marine Institute and hands on science aboard the RV Challenger at the Long Beach Marine Institute.
“Thanks to our supporters, we’re able to bring this new and innovative camp this year,” said Lumme. “As an award-winning nonprofit, we proudly bring new and exciting programming to our community.”
Although their Community Support Campaign ended on April 8, the Youth Center accepts contributions throughout the year. If you’d like to give to them, please visit online at www.theyouthcenter.org/donate-online.asp or call their office at 562-493-4043. Registrations are now open for Camp S.H.A.R.K. or Teen Camp. To register, please visit online at www.theyouthcenter.org/summer-camp.asp.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 issue of the News Enterprise.
Is the drought over?
October through March marks California’s rainy season. With more than 19 inches of rainfall already registered, Orange County is well above its normal 14 inches for the year, however, the drought is not officially over. In February, the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) extended its existing water conservation regulations, which prohibit wasteful practices and set a conservation mandate for water suppliers without enough water reserves to withstand three more dry years.
The board cited California’s variable weather patterns and the stressed groundwater basins, which will require several years of above average rainfall to rebound to normal levels as reasons for continuing the conservation regulations. The board agreed to re-evaluate the situation in May rather than terminate the existing regulations put into place due to the drought.
It will take about two to three above average rainfall years for the Orange County Groundwater Basin to refill, but we can still live comfortably, without pumping restrictions in the meantime. One reason is added Santa Ana River stormwater capture. Except for required flood control releases, OCWD has been able to capture 100 percent of Prado Dam release flows since it began raining in November 2016 and has put the water back into the Orange County Groundwater Basin. This additional stormwater capture is due to temporary modifications in the operation of Prado Dam by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to allow water conservation (formerly 498 feet) up to elevation 505 feet above mean sea level.
The temporary modifications to Prado Dam’s operations by the Corps, referred to as deviations, allowed capture of an additional 22,275 acre-feet of stormwater through March 23. That’s enough water for 178,200 people for a year. Further rainfall events would allow even greater amounts of stormwater capture.
The capture of stormwater and its recharge into the groundwater basin is the most economical way to replenish local water supplies and one of the most efficient. Maximizing the use of local water resources helps sustain future pumping from the basin.
The Orange County Water District appreciates its long and productive relationship with the USACE. This relationship has provided for notable successes in managing water resources in the Santa Ana River Watershed in Southern California.
The District and the Corps are currently working on a long-term plan called the Prado Feasibility Study that, if successful, could lead to permanently changing the Prado Dam Water Control Manual to allow water conservation up to 505 feet amsl year-round.
The District values the leadership of the USACE and looks forward to continued collaboration to refill the Orange County Groundwater Basin to bring it back to healthy pre-drought levels.
The groundwater basin is only about 37 percent full, but OCWD is confident that with this season’s stormwater capture and natural recharge from recent rains, the 100 million gallons per day of Groundwater Replenishment System “new” water, and the availability of imported water, will make significant progress in refilling the basin.
The above average rainfall has certainly improved the local water supply conditions, but groundwater levels are still below target elevations and the District has to continue to be vigilant in managing the groundwater basin.
If you’d like an in-depth look at water in our region presented by recognized experts, I invite you to sign up for the OC Water Summit (http://www.ocwatersummit.com/) in Anaheim on June 16 at the Grand Californian Hotel in the Disneyland Resort.
–James Vanderbilt represents Division 9 of the Orange County Water District and is Mayor Pro Tempore of Anaheim.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Rev up for the Seal Beach Car Show
The quiet beachside town of Seal Beach will soon be bustling with visitors from all over the State, and the Country, when the West Coast’s largest ocean-side classic car show converges on Seal Beach on April 29. The event is free and open to the public, with ample free parking again this year, at the Naval Weapons Station in Seal Beach, with pedestrian and shuttle access to the show. Use the Liberty Gate Entrance just South of PCH. The main entrance for the Base, is not an entry point for parking.
The show begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. on Main Street in Old Town Seal Beach.
This is the one day a year Main Street becomes an official “walk-street.”
Special features include a NHRA Dragster/Funnycar “Cacklefest” at the pier and drag racing stars.
Returning to the show is a stunning display of vintage pre-1979 motorcycles, featuring vintage gentleman style café racers, sponsored by TankFarm & Co. in Seal Beach.
There will be dozens of vintage motorcycles parked around town as well, as various café racer clubs from So Cal have come to make this show one of their primary destinations.
Thousands of attendees will spend the day strolling and viewing nearly 550 vintage cars in nearly 30 classes at this judged event. Festivities include live music throughout the day from bands on three different stages (That Cover Band, Down the Hatch, Flying Squad and Boys & the Beez), fun and interesting vendor and nostalgic displays, a Pinewood Derby, celebrity appearances, Seal Beach Lion’s pancake breakfast and hotdog lunch, and a return by popular demand of the People’s Choice Award.
Seal Beach Cub Scout Pack 116 will again host an ex-officio Pinewood Derby, which is always a local favorite, at the Pier from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All preteen girls and boys are invited to the derby race. And speaking of local favorites, be sure to stop in and “fill-up” at all the local restaurants and taverns in Old Town.
The 30th Annual Seal Beach Classic Car Show is an official event of the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce and could not be produced without the support of generous sponsors, including Title Sponsor – G & M Oil; Platinum Sponsor, Seal Beach’s own Original Parts Group; along with returning sponsors Russo & Steele, The Sun Newspapers, the City, and our new sponsor, Selman Chevrolet, who is bringing a 50th Anniversary Chevrolet Camaro to be displayed along side of some
of our top show cars at Eisenhower Park.
This show, the production solely in the arms of the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce is the City’s biggest event, and allows the Chamber to fund the over various community related events throughout the calendar year. With over 100 volunteers, it truly takes a village to put on this show. Seal Beach City staff greatly contributes with its police, public works, lifeguard, and various other departments.
Once again, the event is sold out for car entries. Registration for the 2018 show will begin the day of the
Show this year, so register early, and ensure yourself a spot for next year’s show.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Cypress alum graduates from basic training
U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Christopher J. Orr recently graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.
Orr, who’s a 2009 graduate of Cypress High School, completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Orr earned a distinction as an honor graduate.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Rotary hears from city manager
At a recent Rotary meeting, new member Los Alamitos City Manager, Bret Plumlee, gave a short presentation about how he came to work for the City of Los Alamitos. Mr. Plumlee has 33 years of city government experience and has worked for seven different cities. This is his fourth year in Los Alamitos, and he commented, “This is a great community, a happy place to be, and I just love it.” He was raised in Orange County, golfs when he can, and is an avid Angels, Chargers, and Clippers fan. His favorite activity is spending time with his two daughters, Katie and Emily, who attend schools in Los Alamitos Unified School District.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Letters to the Editor–April 19: Time to get rid of red light cameras
Dear Editor,
I read both of Joel Block’s informative letters in the News Enterprise and I am shocked that Los Alamitos still uses the cameras.
I live in Cypress and up to now I shop in Los Alamitos. I have heard others that live in Cypress say they will no longer shop in Los Alamitos.
The Long Beach Town Center is closer with ample parking.
It’s time for Los Alamitos to ban red light cameras like other smart Orange County cities.
Tom Ferguson
Cypress
Veterans Voices: A look back to 100 years ago
April, 6,1917 was the date of America’s entry into World War I. It is often referred to as The Great War. Also, it was supposed to be considered as the war to end all wars.
It was a great war, but not for all the people who suffered individually with painful injuries, wounds, limb-dismemberment, or died. Also suffering were their families, relatives, friends.
But it was not the war to end all wars. Many countries worldwide have known wars on their own land. Most of those countries have been conquered or overtaken by their enemies.
War is hell–I know! I served with quite a few million other men and women in World War II. Prior to that great adventure, I worked in the war plants for two years before I enlisted in the Army. My two brothers served in WWII. Jim in the Navy and Babe in the Army.
My dad, John, and Uncle Tom served in World War I soon after they arrived in the United States from Greece. They were in the 85th Division, known as the Polar Bears. They spent eight months in northern Russia, even after the Armistice had been signed, mostly due to poor communications. They survived temperatures down to 30 degrees below zero, just 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle. I’m proud to be a Polar Bear Cub.
What were the causes of World War l?
All the real causes of how and who started the war remain controversial. The war began in the Balkans in 1914. It was well known at the time that Germany and Austria-Hungary were antagonistic rivals of Russia, France, Serbia, and Great Britain. Each nation began their first part of the war in 1914 over some political, territorial, and/or economic matters. The situations worsened and went out of control.
Suddenly, the Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife, Sophia, were assassinated in June 1914. They were heir-apparent to their countries. Their assassinations led to the war. Most of the European nations were at war. In 1915, Germany had enacted a policy of unrestricted submarine warfare against any ships that entered the British war zone.
Why did the United States want to remain neutral?
Our country was initially determined to remain neutral as war erupted across Europe. Most Americans felt that our country should stay out of World War I. We hadn’t been a signatory to any of their agreements. President Woodrow Wilson declared a neutrality policy, attempting instead to broker a peace agreement. Even when a German sub sank the British ocean liner, Lusitania, in 1915, with 128 Americans on board, the United States demanded a stop to the destruction of passenger ships, and Germany agreed, leading to continued American neutrality.
Why did the United States finally get into World War I?
President Woodrow Wilson maintained neutrality until Germany ignored the agreement to ensure passenger safety before destroying enemy ships. Pressure in the U.S. mounted as German U-boats attacked and sank our ships carrying U.S. citizens and then Germany attempted to persuade Mexico to attack the United States. Germany would then become their ally.
On April 6, 1917, the United States officially declared war against Germany after their country repeatedly attacked armed and unarmed vessels traveling to Britain, resulting in American casualties; also, on that date, the U.S. joined WWI and soon held the first of three draft registrations in which more than 24 million U.S. men would register for the draft.
War is hell. But we must be happy that we can now celebrate the 100th Anniversary of World War I, on April 6, even though most all of the people from that era are no longer alive today. Had my dad lived, he’d be 127 years old.
Despite the high costs of armament, and the bloody battles that ensued, there were also the very much higher costs of wounds, suffering, and deaths. Even so, many good events and products came about because of the wars. Many first-time situations developed. Civilization has benefited with numerous new inventions and adaptations of older items. Computers, as one example, are utilized in so many ways, mostly in beneficial ways, but also in sneaky warfare.
Wars are necessary sometimes, to achieve some really important goals. The Revolutionary War was the Greatest Event for America when the early colonists fought the British hierarchy, to gain our freedom and liberty. Gratefully, We became the United States of America.
Numerous wars, too many to list, have been fought. Has anyone ever recorded the caveman battles of who killed that dinosaur, and who wants to take the meat from us?
More seriously, I obtained much of the following information from various history books that included some of the firsts in World War I. I was fascinated to learn that World War I has already become a forgotten war. It was fought a full, one hundred years ago, and we lost over two million Americans in just over one year. What a price to pay in any war.
One of the firsts starts with April 6,1917 when the U.S.A. declared war on Germany, and The Selective Service Act was passed by Congress in May to recruit men for our Armed Forces. Also, in May, 177 staff members of The American Expeditionary Force landed in France.
General John J. Pershing led the first doughboys of the AEF to sail across the Atlantic Ocean to land in France in June of 1917. The naval convoy of ships sailed successfully without any submarine attacks.
Additionally, and not in any strict sequence, are many of the other firsts from WWI.
• The first U.S. Aero Squadron arrived in France.
• First Americans were killed by German bombing.
• A merchant transport ship was torpedoed off the coast of Ireland, • and an Army troop ship was sunk on its return trip to America.
• German submarines had sunk so many ships of all kinds that many U.S. Naval airplanes flew in an anti-submarine patrol; also a naval overseas transportation service was created to protect the shipments of supplies to our troops. Only eight of the nearly five hundred cargo ships became victims of the enemy submarines.
January of 1918 marked the first time American soldiers began trench warfare, on French soil. Another first was when the Army Tank Corps began their battles with the enemy and the Army Air Services provided about 750 airplanes and 800 pilots to attack the Germans.
So much information had to be obtained to fight and win a war that Air balloons, used as forward observers hovered over enemy positions to report the best enemy targets. Fighter planes began their very welcome entry into the war. A well-known American fighter pilot, Eddie Rickenbacker, shot down more than 21 enemy planes, and four balloons,
The German Army began using poison gas against our troops, seriously affecting more than 1,000 soldiers in one night of shelling. Thankfully, many dozens of medics were available to assist the afflicted as much as they could with any medicines and the limited knowledge they had about poison gas warfare. Field hospitals and ambulance services were in constant use as were all the doctors and nurses.
The American Army began their real offensive action with heavier counter-attacks by wounding, killing, and capturing thousands of enemy troops. Fierce fighting with all our Allies helped bring World War I to an end with the signing of The Armistice “on the 11th hour of the 11th day in the 11th month of the year. November 11th each year is known as Veterans Day.
The United States had more than 4.7 million service members serving worldwide during WWI.
More than 50,000 American lives were lost during battle, with some 200,000 non-mortally wounded, leaving over 17 million dead and 20 million wounded.
Yes, war is hell but happily, World War I was fought 100 years ago.
Bill Thomas of Rossmoor is a Veteran of World War II, and Past Commander of VFW Post 4048, and American Legion Post 857.
Contact Bill atvvbthomasvets@gmail.com
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Griffins pummel Chargers heading into spring break
The Los Alamitos High softball team jumped out to a big early lead and cruised to a 10-0 win over Edison as the Griffins head into spring break.
Senior pitcher Ryan Denhart pitched just three innings before leaving with an 8-0 lead, as Brianna Jewett pitched three innings in relief, with Sarah Ladd closing out the seventh inning.
Denhart allowed three hits with a strikeout, while Jewett allowed just two hits and struck out two.
The Griffins broke the game open early with four runs in the first inning and four more in the second as they took control early in the road game.
Cami Sellers had a home run and four RBIs, while Danielle Lew also homered. Jazzmyn Loe had an RBI double and Mary Iakopo had a hit, two RBIs and scored a run.
Andrea Gonzalez had a hit and scored a run.
The Griffins were ranked No. 1 in last week’s Orange County poll and No. 2 in the CIF-SS Division 1 poll behind Norco.
The Griffins battled Norco in the championship of the Michelle Carew Classic on April 8, coming up short, 1-0. Denhart pitched seven innings, with just three hits allowed and five strikeouts.
The Griffins are 17-3 and 3-0 in league play, with Huntington Beach second in the Sunset League at 3-1. The Griffins will be off until April 25, when they will play at Huntington Beach, at 3:15 p.m.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Centurions split first two league games
After opening Empire League play with a 7-0 win over Valencia and also blanking Ocean View 4-0 the following game, the Cypress High baseball team ran into a hot pitcher, as Valencia evened the Centurions’ early league record at 1-1, with a 2-0 win over Cypress on Thursday, April 6.
Valencia’s Kyle Crane allowed just two hits to the Centurions, with three strikeouts in a complete-game performance. Prior to that, the Centurions had opened the league season with a 7-0 win over Valencia. Senior pitcher Raul Salazar pitched a complete-game shutout with six strikeouts.
Sophomore infielder Cameron Repetti was 3 for 4 with a run and two RBIs. Mike Marsh was 2 for 4 with two runs and an RBI.
The Centurions competed in the National Classic Tournament last week and took a break before getting back into Empire League play on April 21 at home against Kennedy. Game score was unavailable as of press time.
The Centurions won the Empire League last year with a 10-0 record, ahead of Kennedy and Tustin, who both went 7-3.
Cypress softball looking to rebound in league play
After struggling in the Michelle Carew Tournament, the Cypress High softball team will try to pick up some momentum as they get back into Empire League play this week.
The Centurions were able to get a 4-2 win over Roosevelt High in the Carew Classic, but struggled to losses in its other games. In the win over Roosevelt, junior pitcher Emily Iannotti pitched eight innings, allowing just two earned runs.
Brianna Gargano had two hits and a run scored, while Carlyn Hernandez had a hit and two runs scored. Marcy Galipeau, Jessica Martinez and Michelle Borchardt each had a RBI.
The Centurions won its league game against Kennedy 6-4 on Tuesday, April 11 and lost a non-league game against Canyon High of Anaheim 8-1, at Cypress High on Thursday, April 13.
The team hosted Western on Tuesday this week. Game score was unavailable as of press time.
This article appeared in th April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Home run slugger
Lance Pixa, a 12-year-old Pony Bronco player, hit his first over the fence home run in Los Alamitos Youth Baseball league earlier this month.
Lance’s best friend, CJ Brown, was on first base when the ball went over the wall and he was the first to greet him at home plate.
The following game on Thursday April 6, Lance was up with CJ on first base again. And once again the home run slugger delivered and Lance hit three homers over the same part of the fence.
Ironically enough, the part of the field where Lance hit all four homeruns is where is father’s company sponsorship sign is hung.
Lance plays for the LAYB Bronco Red Sox during the spring and is also part of the OC Invaders, which is a travel baseball team based out of Seal Beach.
He and his teammates will be headed to Cooperstown, New York this summer to play in a national tournament and visit the baseball Hall of Fame.
Lance lives in Seal Beach and is a sixth-grader attending St. Joseph in Long Beach.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Arts on the Green hits Cypress
Art displays, wine, music and a beautiful day greeted guests at the Arts on the Green event held in Cypress in the beginning of April. The event was sponsored by the Cypress Art League and Friends of Cypress Cultural Arts (FOCCA).
The event, conceived by City Council Member, Mariellen Yarc, was an opportunity to bring a quality arts event to the community.
“This is a great community event,” said Yarc. “We don’t get enough of this locally. We would like to encourage more art programs in Cypress.”
“I hope they do this again next year,” said Donna Holder, a handmade, beaded jewelry maker. Holder, along with her beading instructor, Christine Smith, had bracelets, necklaces, and other exquisite pieces for sale.
Stephanie Chagollan, a quilt-maker, had a colorful display of her handiwork. The quilts were spectacular examples of functional textile art. Sandy Montez and Christine Brown were examining the needlework and impressed by Chagollan’s skill.
Paintings, photographs, greeting cards, portraits, watercolors and more could be found at many of the booths. Visitors strolled the aisles looking at the art, asking questions, and, sometimes, making purchases.
The wine area was popular with its charmingly-decorated vintage-style tables and chairs. Ken and Karen Lynch were two of the wine-enthusiasts who stopped to eat wrap sandwiches while enjoying some wine.
Live music was performed by groups all day with many visitors sitting in lawn chairs or on blankets listening to jazz, blues, and more. A few people got up and danced or swayed to the tunes.
Everyone associated with the event was a volunteer. Music volunteer groups included: Cypress College Jazz Combo, Driving Sideways Blues Band, Cypress High School Singers and Orchestra Club, and Orange County Children’s Theatre.
“It was so nice that the bands donated their time to make this a wonderful event,” said Yarc. “I especially want to thank Katy Realista from Cypress College for bringing their jazz combo. Their arts department had their 50th Anniversary event last night, but these still showed up today and they are terrific.”
“I also appreciate the 70 cadets from Sunburst Academy. The young men were here early to set up canopies, heavy easels and so much more. They brought two busloads of cadets to help. The boys walked around talking to the vendors once the event started and learned so much about the arts.”
“City Manager, Peter Grant, and the City Council were here this morning,” continued Yarc.
“Next year, we would like to get the high schools and other students involved. We might have an art contest and art displays from local students.”
Along with Yarc a committee has been working on the event since September. Committee members included: Pat Edap from the Cypress Art League, Betty Koestter from FOCCA, Fran Shermet, Linda Sunley and Cheryl Loofbourrow.
“The committee worked closely with Jeff Draper in the parks and recreation department,” said Yarc. “They helped with planning and gave us the space to hold the event.”
The Woman’s Club of Cypress provided volunteers to work security at the wine area, checking IDs and making sure only adults entered the area.
It was a relaxing afternoon with music, art, and time with family and friends. Something we all can use in our hectic schedules.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
What is your pet doing this summer while you are on vacation?
“I look for someone to show love and attention, not just feeding,” said Cypress resident, Carol Prescott. “I used to use a home kennel, but my dogs are much happier in their home environment.”
“I’m picky,” Prescott continued. “Louise is great. She even sends pictures of my dogs eating, walking, and more. I like that.”
“I appreciate someone who loves our animals. They respond well to her and I feel safe and can relax when we are away.”
The pet sitter she is talking about is Louise Bierei from Louise’s Pampered Pets. Bierei offers pet care in Cypress and surrounding communities.
“I offer daily visits, or can stay at your home, or even bring your pets to my house, if you want,” said Bierei. “I have a dog and cat. They get along well with other animals.”
She has experience caring for dogs, cats, hamsters, rats, exotic birds, snakes, and lizards. Basically, she can help with any type of domestic house pets.
Bierei took classes in dog training and volunteered at the Long Beach Animal Shelter to gain experience and has been caring for local pets since 2002. She started when her children were young and needed a flexible job.
With her children now in college, her availability for pet sitting has increased.
“I have people sign a vet release in case of emergency. Pets can get sick any time, so I want to be ready. The authorization for care ensures pets are helped immediately,” said Bierei.
“I have had very few issues, but I always want to be ready. Some people give me the key to their house so I can bring in the mail, turn lights on and off, water plants, bring in the newspaper, take out the trash, walk their dogs, pet and play with their animals and clean up pet waste in the yard.”
Bierei loves animals and has had animals her entire life. She recalls years when her brothers would bring home possums, raccoons and other animals. She especially loves dogs and cats.
“Dogs and cats are always happy to see you,” share Bierei. “I spend time petting and playing with dogs, then take them for a 30 to 40-minute walk. I’m usually at the house for an hour.”
“It’s fun interacting with the animals. I have never had a bad animal; even pit bulls. I come and meet the pets and get familiar with their surroundings. The people are usually friendly and the pets are wonderful.”
Bierei’s business is mostly referrals from existing customers and people at her church, although she is listed on nexdoor.com and some other sites. She stopped by on a recent Saturday to see client Carol Prescott’s two long-haired dachshunds, Daisy, 2-1/2, and Benson, 3. The dogs jumped with excitement to see her and couldn’t wait for her to sit down so they could jump up on the couch next to their owner, but it was Bierei who got the dog-kisses.
Bierei can be reached at 714-270-4273. Daisy and Benson appear to have her on doggy speed-dial.
There are online sites to find pet sitters and house sitters, but most people prefer to hire someone who has been referred, rather than a stranger.
Pet Sitters International recommends asking a few important questions before hiring a sitter. They recommend meeting with the potential sitter to ask about services offered, city license, insurance and bonding, proof of clear criminal history, references, agreements and contracts, certificates and training.
Not all clients feel that these are needed, so personal preference and common sense is more typical. References, though, are key. Since this person will be in your home and caring for your furry family member, take some time to choose the person who fits best with your family.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
The good, the bad and the confusing: sugar and your health
Since 1990, the rate of obesity among adults nationwide has increased over 150 percent. In California, 24 percent of adults are obese, according to United Health Foundation’s America’s Health Rankings 2016 report.
In recent years, there have been questions about carbohydrates and sugar as contributing factors to obesity. Low-carbohydrate diets have been touted as the key to weight loss, and some people are even cutting fruit from their diets to reduce their sugar intake. Recent research in the Annals of Internal Medicine indicates we may not need to limit our sugar intake at all. With so much seemingly conflicting information, it is not surprising that rates of obesity and related chronic diseases are rising.
It’s important to remember not all sugar is damaging to our health. Sugar (also called simple carbohydrate) can be categorized into two groups: naturally occurring sugar and added sugar. All carbohydrates we eat are metabolized into glucose, a simple carbohydrate that fuels every cell in our bodies.
Carbohydrates and naturally occurring sugar are found in a variety of foods like dairy products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These foods are also packed full of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants that are good for us and help protect against disease.
Most of the added sugar in our diet is usually easy to identify. These include table sugar, honey, syrups, fruit juice and fruit-juice concentrates that are added to certain foods, such as cakes, cookies, ice cream, candy and – surprisingly – store-bought spaghetti sauce, granola bars and breakfast cereals, and drinks, including sodas, juices, energy drinks, sports drinks and lattes. A high intake of added sugar leads to weight gain, obesity and tooth decay.
So how much sugar is acceptable? There are no current recommendations for limiting natural sugar found in fruits, vegetables and dairy products. However, the World Health Organization and Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend adults and children reduce their consumption of added sugar to less than 10 percent of their total daily calorie intake.
For someone who consumes 2,000 calories a day, this translates to 200 calories – or about 12 teaspoons of sugar – each day.
The American Heart Association recommends an even smaller amount: around nine teaspoons per day for men and six for women. The Food and Drug Administration has recommended easier ways to track how much added sugar we eat each day. Beginning this year, added sugar will appear on packaged foods’ nutrition labels.
Low-carbohydrate diets, which limit intake of both natural and added sugar, can help people lose pounds quickly, but often these diets are difficult to maintain, resulting in regaining lost weight over time. Although weight is an important health indicator and can be a risk factor for disease, it is not the only determinant of health.
Optimal health is usually not achieved simply by reaching a number on the scale but by may be fueling your body with the right combination of nutrients, many of which are found in foods containing carbohydrates and natural sugars.
Severely restricting all carbohydrate-containing foods may not be the best way to achieve health. An alternative to low-carbohydrate diets is the Mediterranean diet that centers on fruits, vegetables and whole grains – and even eating fresh fruit for dessert. A Mediterranean-style diet also encourages reading labels in order to make healthier choices.
As may be the case with the Annals of Internal Medicine article, sometimes it seems as if the scientific community adds to the confusion around health and wellness. When you come across an article presenting new research, remember it is adding to the existing body of knowledge, not replacing it.
Current health recommendations are built around years of research and evidence.
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to the nation’s health woes, but limiting added sugar may help. The way to help optimize health is to eat sensibly from all food groups to ensure adequate intake of a variety of nutrients. Not all carbohydrates are the same.
We should consume more fruits and vegetables, and fewer sugar-sweetened beverages and desserts, and get plenty of exercise. Your health care provider or registered dietitian can help you achieve your diet and wellness goals and provide personalized recommendations that fit your lifestyle.
– Dr. Jeff Mason is the Senior Medical Director of UnitedHealthcare of California located in Cypress.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Help make a difference across the globe
Antica Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegars and Spices is teaming up with Global Ridge Artisans to help raise money for a 1,000 Liter water tank for a Maasai Village in Kenya.
Fifteen percent of the proceeds sold on Thursday, May 4 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Antica Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegars and Spices will be donated towards the water tank. Browse amongst the products while nibbling on sweets, treats and beverages. Visit www.anticaoliveoil.com ahead of time to view their newest Spring line of jewelry, home décor along with Anticas product line of oils, vinegars and spices. Antia Olive Oil is located at 11110 Los Alamitos Blvd.
Global Ridge Artisans is a start-up company founded by two sister-in-laws: Susie Ridgeway (Long Beach native) and Tricia Ridgeway (strong ties to Long Beach and Los Alamitos since 1985).
The duo travelled to Africa with their families and fell in love with the country, the people and the culture. Through their travels, they realized they wanted to give back to this amazing country and to the people who opened their homes and their hearts.
They fell in love with the Maasai handcrafted beaded products and their significance to their tribes. They are now working with a Womens co-op in Eastern Africa in the Ilpurko section and importing their one of a kind products. The sisters-in-laws’ main goal is to empower, enrich and educate the women, their children, their families and their community. Visit their website for more information at www.globalridge.org.
Antica Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegars and Spices located in Los Alamitos was started in 2003 by the husband and wife team Yasemin and Mustafa Altuner. They have ties to the Long Beach Community since 1984.
The couple wanted to reach back to their Turkish roots in hopes of reviving the business of importing high quality olive oil. As their business has thrived, they now import oils from all over the world including Spain, Italy, Greece, Tunisia and California in the Northern Hemisphere and Australia, Argentina and Chile in the Southern Hemisphere depending upon the season for the crushing of the olives.
They offer many exciting and exotic flavors of oil, vinegar and spices. Also available are Oil Tastings and Classes for home schooled students. All oils sold at Antica are preservative free, 100% natural and loaded with anti-oxidants, which help support a healthy immune system. Visit their website for more information at www.anticaoliveoil.com.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.
Martian novel brings science lessons down to Earth
When Oak Middle School science teacher David Beck read the hit sci-fi thriller “The Martian” a couple of years ago, he was captivated. It wasn’t just that the hero is an astronaut stranded on Mars who must use his knowledge of physics, chemistry, astronomy and math to survive four years until a rescue mission can reach him. Beck saw something even more exciting as he turned the pages: a classroom.
“When I first read the novel, I knew I could virtually teach all of eighth grade physical science from the book. It was a gift, ” he said.
There was only one problem. As a reader might expect, a frustrated Mars castaway might be expected to use some salty language from time to time, and in Andy Weir’s novel, astronaut Mark Watney does. Quite a bit. Beck “really wanted his students to read it,” said Oak Principal Erin Kominsky, “but it was clearly inappropriate for eighth-graders.” Beck and Kominsky briefly considered buying copies of the novel and using markers to cross out the swearing, but decided against it.
Like Watney, Beck would not be deterred. He reached out to Weir through his publisher and asked if a school appropriate version could be published so that the educational potential of the work could be realized. Beck was persistent and over several months other science teachers joined the chorus. The result was a revised “Martian” classroom edition that so far has sold 25,000 copies. Each of Oak’s 380 eighth-graders received a copy of the book.
Beck explains to his students that “The Martian” provides the basis for an entire year of lessons because it “shows that combining working science knowledge with heroic, never-say-die persistence can make a great story and teach us useful life lessons, like, ‘Science is really cool’ and, ‘Never, ever give up, especially if your life depends on it.’”
Beck’s students investigate topics such as interplanetary distances and the demands they place on humans and technology, the science of making water (the stranded Watney has to do that to survive) and the relationship between weight, trajectory and power in calculating what it would take to escape the Martian atmosphere.
Beck also hosts weekly “Martian Fridays,” where his students discuss and respond to the science involved in key turning points in the novel.
Along with adoption of “The Martian,” Kominsky said, the school’s science and English departments have worked to incorporate substantially more writing into rigorous science lessons.
In addition the English department is planning on using “The Martian” later this year in studying how stories are structured.
Beck said a side benefit of bringing Mars into the classroom is how it motivates kids to read; many have finished the book ahead of schedule.
Beck’s Martian program is just part of Oak Middle School’s energetic pursuit of science learning.
The school has an active 3D printing lab that offers modeling opportunities to classes across the curriculum.
The school’s Science Olympiad team recently placed sixth among all schools in Orange County and took home eight medals including a first place in wind power design.
This article appeared in the April 19, 2017 print edition of the News Enterprise.