Four Boys & Girls Club of Cypress members were selected to participate in the Cypress “Shop with a Cop” Program on Thursday, Dec. 18. The program was created in the year 2000 to foster positive relationships between youth and law enforcement. Now each year more than 200 communities participate in the nationwide program.

The event paired public safety officers with two youth from each club site for an evening of holiday shopping at Target. The members were selected based off of their overall improvement since beginning at the club, as well as for displaying outstanding behavior and citizenship.

On the evening of the event, a team of police cars, officers, and K-9 units came to the club to transport the participants to Target in Cypress. After asking lots of questions about life as a police officer, the kids were led into their private police cars. As the group approached the storefront, the members took delight in their arrival with lights and sirens. Each child was given a budget to spend and was assigned to their own police officer to help escort them around the store and help them pick out fun new toys and gifts for the holidays.

After the event, Boys & Girls Club of Cypress Site Director Samantha Johnson stated, “It was really heartwarming to see the police officers taking time out of their schedules to do this for our deserving members. The kids had an absolute blast and couldn’t stop grinning from start to finish. It was an event that these kids will remember for the rest of their lives.”

The Boys & Girls Club of Cypress and the Rotary Club of Cypress partnered to host an annual holiday party on Friday, Dec. 12 at the club. Rotary Club members invited all members and their families for an evening celebration at the club, which included a free spaghetti and meatball feast that was prepared with love.

After a delicious meal, club families enjoyed participating in holiday activities and visiting with a special guest from the North Pole. All members and their siblings who attended got to pick out a free toy from the club’s “Santa Shop” at the conclusion of the event. Rotary Club, Knott’s Berry Farm, Mattel, Boys & Girls Club staff, and local community members donated the toys for the Santa Shop.

More than 200 people attended the holiday party and had a great evening. Santa arrived by fire truck mid-way through the event and took photos with families. Cypress High School Interact Club members assisted with food preparation and event set-up.

In addition to the holiday party, the Rotary Club of Cypress donated holiday gifts for 50 club children in need.

With more than 150 children on scholarship, the club is constantly seeking additional support for families who need financial assistance. For more information about how you can help, stop by the club at 10161 Moody St. in Cypress, call 714-527-2697, or visit online at www.boysandgirlsclubofcypress.com.

On Christmas Day, Americans will begin to learn a lot more about war hero and Olympic athlete, Louis Zamperini, when his life story will be the subject of a major motion picture entitled, “Unbroken.”

Long-time Los Alamitos resident Grant Parker will be watching with strong interest, as he has found himself inspired by and loosely connected to Louis over the past 40 years. Though he never met Louis until 2011, Grant was coached by Louis’ brother Pete, at Banning High school in the mid ‘50s.

Louis story began as a troubled adolescent, who was a petty thief, before his older brother Pete, influenced his brother to change and inspired him to achieve through track. Grant said Pete spoke often of his brother, mostly regarding his track exploits. Louis was the national collegiate mile champion for USC and later ran in the 1936 Olympics before joining the Army and serving in World War II.

“He always raved about his brother,” Grant said of Pete.

After high school, Grant moved on through life, at times coming across more information about Louis and taking the lessons he learned from Pete with him. Louis was a prisoner of war survivor, after his B24 Bomber crashed into the ocean. Upon finally returning home, Louis is said to have struggled with his experience and the post-traumatic stress syndrome.

But he would eventually turn his life around. He became a Christian, and started using his experiences to help youths. All the while, Grant continued to find stories about Louis in newspapers and magazines, and even a chapter in a book about high-profile Christians that was given to him, when he himself became a Christian in 1971.

Grant wondered why a book had never been written about Louis as a true American hero? A book was finally written by acclaimed author Laura Hillenbrand in 2010. It jumped to the New York Times Bestseller list and Grant began buying copies for friends and family as gifts. His hope was to share the inspiration he had gotten from Pete and reading about Louis.

Then in 2011, he received a gift for himself. A friend had invited him to hear Louis speak at a Boy Scouts Council meeting in Long Beach. Grant gathered his memorabilia on Louis and went eagerly to hear him. Afterward, he finally had the chance to meet the man, who had inspired him and who he was connected to by the inspiration they both received from Pete.

“He just kind of beamed,” Grant said of Louis’ reaction to his sharing of his experience with Pete.

Among the things that Grant brought with him, was his 1956 yearbook from Banning High. Louis signed the book right next to his brother’s signature from 55 years prior. Pete had died in 2008. At one point Louis was listed as Killed in Action, by the U.S. government, though his actual death would come until July 2, 2014, at the age of 97. Grant might know more about Louis than anyone who hasn’t written a book or made a movie about him. So you can bet he’ll be watching eagerly when the life story of Louis hits the big screen. And you can bet he’ll continue to be inspired by the two brothers.

In spite of the recent rains from the Pineapple Express, the 8th annual Rossmoor Homeowners Association Christmas Lights Celebration the RHA proudly announced and highlighted the homes that recently received 2014 Recognition Awards.

They enthusiastically list all the Honorably Mentioned homes that are identified for you to enjoy on the Rossmoor Christmas Hot Spots Map (link here to download). These are the 20+ homes and streets that “Made the Map” and are the reason why the RHA does the Christmas Lights Celebration in the first place.

After downloading the map and viewing the images, check out these dwellings for real, in-person, with family and hot chocolate. Take the car or take a bike (with Christmas light reflectors, of course). Take a hayride. Take the kids or anyone acting as one. Enjoy the Christmas season and let the home owners know you appreciate their efforts to bring Christmas magic to the neighborhood.

To see where these homes are located, download the “Rossmoor Christmas Lights Map” at www.rossmoor-rha.org.

Jurassic Christmas Award, Curd Family, 12101 Chianti Drive

Let’s start by going back in time to Christmas of the Jurassic era. That’s what you’ll see outside the Curd family’s house, but keep in mind, this place is more kid friendly than Barney. The happy dinosaurs in Santa hats will gladly gift-wrap your presents. This is a rookie (first-time) entry, and not only is the display fun, but so much work went into decorating the entire house and surrounding trees. Drive by and enjoy it while you can. It may not last forever.

Happy Feet Award, Fieldson-Burling Family, 11302 Pemberton Road

Although happy might not be the reoccurring theme here, but we are going from happy dinosaurs to happy feet. You’ll know what we mean when you visit the house, as it’s amazing how many penguins you can fit in a front yard. Yes, these little and some rather large loveable characters can be seen from miles away (well, at least from across any angle of Rossmoor Park). There’s also a polar bear in the far left, but just like the Coca Cola commercial, they all seem to get along quite fine, and are greeting you with all smiles and bright lights.

Honey – Get the Kids Award, Ryan and Kelly Herzog, 2892 Aceca Drive

The reaction is when one judge immediately texts his wife, “The kids have got to see this house.” Another judge tells us she’s going to take her kids back here for a study break. Seems to be a universal response when people are suddenly engulfed in the dancing sights and musical Christmas sounds of the Herzog family house. Not kidding, this is just awesome. Our judges were so captivated as they made it through three songs, with the Santa image above the front door singing along. Forget the car or bike. Bring the lawn chair, but not the tent. That would be tempting but a little too weird.

Merry and Bright Award, Bill and Lorraine Jones, 3262 St. Albans Drive

This is a family oriented Christmas celebration and the Jones family home exemplifies why Christmas is magical. Definitely one of the Rossmoor repeated favorites, Bill and Luanne add another element each year. The Green HoHoHo was the not-so-subtle addition along with the snowflake walkway that invites visitors to take their Christmas photos right in front of the house. It’s happened many times already, and the RHA is grateful to Bill and Luanne for always being so Merry and Bright.

Good Neighbor Award, Benjestorf and White Families, 3371 and 3361 Druid Lane

We think it was Robert Frost (good winter name) who said something like good fences make good neighbors. Well, we think Christmas lights work even better as evidenced by the Benjestorf and White Families. They have combined forces to create an illuminating experience starting at the corner of Druid and St. Cloud and heading across rooftops. Beautifully styled house lights and lawn decorations you don’t want to miss entering the hood as you escape from the 405. To us, they are saying, “Hey you’re done with work or shopping for the day. Time to enjoy the Christmas season.”

Most Festive Street Award, Woodstock between Martha Ann and Foster

Last year, we thought we were clever in a Where’s Waldo sort of way, saying try to find Woodstock on Woodstock when Lance and Debbie Slimmer secured Snoopy’s pal to their Rossmoor Holiday Light Post. Well the residents of Woodstock between Martha Ann and Foster blew Waldo out of the water because so many of the homes have Woodstock proudly displayed on their font lawns. The street is definitely filled with community Christmas spirit. If one is good, more is better, and Woodstock, without a doubt wins the Most Festive Street Award. Check it out as it will make you and Snoopy happy.

Classic Christmas Award, John and Annette Farber, 11352 Wembley Road

Red, white and green all sparkling across the home from north to south. So impressed with the decorations, one judge said, “This is exactly what I want my home to look like.” This is the image one puts on a Christmas card. Of course we’d have to Photoshop in the snow, which the Pineapple Express failed to deliver to Rossmoor. The Farber house was so appreciated by the neighbors that it was a close friend on the street who entered the home, and for that the RHA is grateful.

Silent Night Award, Russ and Pam Cross, 11541 Martha Ann Drive

Russ and Pam are now two-time recipients of this special award. The judges were so enamored with the manger scene with attention to detail, like the two new angels flying overhead, they almost broke out into the Silent Night song. Well, that’s a slight exaggeration, but the tranquility could make one feel like singing. This home has it all with farm animals surrounding the garage that’s somewhat shaped like a barn, and the star of Bethlehem in the not so distant background. A well thought-out, peaceful display by the Cross Family.

Rookie of the Year Award, Herrin Family, 11552 Wallingsford Road

Lights – check, candy canes – check, illuminated forest animals – check, wrapped lighted pillars – check, lighted roofline – check, multi-colored trees – check, decorated window display – check. There was a high level of effort to make it all work in an enchanting display – check. What’s missing? Basically nothing except perhaps a polar bear sliding from the chimney to the front lawn with 20 elves along for the ride. Well, even without the bear, it was plenty for Zac Herrin to earn the Rookie of the Year Award, and we can’t wait until next year.

All of these following homes are honorable, worth mentioning and also made the 2014 Rossmoor Christmas Lights Hot Spots Map:

2662 Tucker Lane

2762 Salmon Dr.

3321 Wimbleton Dr.

11325 Donovan

2682 Brimhall Dr.

12705 Martha Ann Dr.

2862 Coleridge Dr.

2982 Brimhall Dr.

2751 Mainway Dr.

3272 Walker Lee St.

3331 Huntley Dr.

3341 Kenilworth Dr.

3172 St. Albans Dr.

3011 Shakespeare Dr.

3072 Burney Pl.

3282 Tigertail Dr.

2951 Yellowtail Dr.

3171 Kittrick Dr.

3051 Inverness Dr.

11831 Martha Ann Dr.

11811 Norgrove Ln.

2942 Edgeley Pl.

Hit the Rossmoor streets with your egg nog or warm cocoa, however you want to defy the Pineapple Express, and enjoy the spectacle of lights (and sound) that’s been prepared for you.

Download the “Rossmoor Christmas Lights Map” identifying the locations of all these homes at www.rossmoor-rha.org.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti administered the community oath of office to Senator Tony Mendoza on Saturday at the Norwalk City Hall Civic Lawn. The ceremony featured community leaders and local dignitaries. Senator Mendoza was elected as Senator for the newly-drawn 32^nd Senate District on Nov. 4.

Los Alamitos had a changing of leadership on Monday as Mayor Gerri Graham-Mejia exited office after eight years on the City Council, and three members were sworn in for four-year terms.

Incumbents Troy Edgar and Warren Kusumoto were sworn in for new terms and newcomer Shelley Hasselbrink took the fifth seat for her first term on the Los Alamitos City Council. With only three qualified candidates, the city was able to avoid the cost of an election and appoint Edgar, Kusumoto and Hasselbrink to terms.

Hasselbrink spoke briefly after being sworn in, noting that since she did not have to run a campaign, her position on issues was expressed publicly. She boiled it down to its simplest form, noting that she simply wanted to keep the city a place where her future grandchildren would want to live.

“I look forward to serving this community and this city,” Hasselbrink said.

Kusumoto and Edgar spoke of the changes in the council since there was heavy friction over issues and both noted that they are hopeful that the more respectful working relationship of the council that has emerged in the past year will continue.

Graham-Mejia was recognized by several area representatives, including mayors from Seal Beach and Cypress as well as representatives Alan Lowenthal and Travis Allen. In her eight years, Graham-Mejia was only appointed mayor in her final year. However, she also noted that the better working relationship the council has had in the past year, made it her favorite year serving on the council. Graham-Mejia thanked her supporters and apologized to those with whom she could not find a common ground. But the debates and battles with those on the opposite sides of issues helped Graham-Mejia stay focused, she said.

“Thank you for challenging me and making me a better representative,” Graham-Mejia said.

Edgar spoke about Graham-Mejia as well, joking about the entertainment factor of their squabbles on the dais. However, he also said that outside of public debates, he and Graham-Mejia were quite friendly and that their fights were about stances for the community and not personal.

“I wish you the best,” Edgar told her.

In closing, Graham-Mejia thanked her family for their support, mostly her son who is away at college and her husband Javier, who was in attendance.

“Truly, without having your family behind you, you can’t do something like this,” she said.

Four years of construction work on SR-22, I-405 and I-605 near the Orange and Los Angeles county line is nearing an end for drivers who will now experience an easier commute.

The scheduled dates have been moved up to open the bridges that connect the carpool lanes on I-405 with SR-22 and I-605, as part of the West County Connectors project.

The updated schedule (weather permitting) for opening the connectors is:

• Sunday morning, Dec. 7, the southbound I-605 to southbound I-405 carpool connector

• Tuesday morning, Dec. 9, the northbound I-405 to northbound I-605 carpool connector

• Wednesday morning, Dec. 10, the westbound SR-22 to northbound I-405 carpool connector

• The southbound I-405 to eastbound SR-22 carpool connector opened in November

The schedule was changed because of the possibility of rain later next week that could further delay the connectors from opening.

The four-year West County Connectors construction project is aimed at easing congestion and enhancing safety along the most heavily traveled stretch of freeway in the nation. Crews are working to put the finishing touches on it ahead of rain potentially returning to the area at the end of next week.

Drivers will now be able to travel in the carpool lanes from the Garden Grove Freeway (SR-22) to the San Diego Freeway (I-405) to the San Gabriel Freeway (I-605), and the reverse, without ever having to exit the carpool lanes.

The $297 million project by the Orange County Transportation Authority, in cooperation with Caltrans, allows for seamless transitions between the three freeways eliminating the merging and weaving of cars that previously occurred, a major cause of congestion. In addition, the project adds a second carpool on I-405 in both directions between SR-22 and I-605. The I-405 near the border of Orange and Los Angeles counties carries approximately 370,000 cars a day.

“The opening of the West County Connectors means the long road of construction in the area is winding down and we want to thank all of the commuters and the surrounding communities who have patiently endured the work throughout the past four years,” said OCTA Chairman Shawn Nelson, also the chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. “We know it hasn’t always been easy but it has been a necessary step to cut down congestion and enhance safety on these three freeways.”

The six-mile project runs through Garden Grove, Westminster, Seal Beach, Los Alamitos, Long Beach and Rossmoor. Construction began in fall 2010 and while the connectors are opening, work will continue with freeway closures occurring intermittently through February.

The project also has included:

•  Reconstruction of 7th Street bridge completed in April 2012

•  Reconstruction of Valley View Street bridge completed in June 2012

•  Reconstruction of Seal Beach Boulevard Bridge completed in July 2014

For an updated list of closures and detours, please visit online at www.octa.net/wccdetourmap.

The Boys & Girls Club of Cypress hosted a Canned Food Drive for the month of November. Members brought in non-perishable food donations to assist families in need during the holiday season. All collections were donated to We Care, a Los Alamitos non-profit organization formed to meet the emergency needs of families with services such as food, personal care items, clothing and more.

Landell Elementary School recently hosted a school-wide food donation drive. The school collected more than 2,700 pounds of food, which was given to the OC Food Bank. The Boys & Girls Club of Cypress received $0.10 for each pound donated. The money will be used to purchase food and supplies for members in need, as well as help supplement the costs of the club’s nutrition curriculum.

During the holiday season, the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress is collecting items needed to run the after school program on a daily basis. Community members may get involved by selecting an item off of the club’s “giving tree” throughout the month of December. Items such as playing cards, board games, sports equipment, ping pong balls, cleaning supplies, paper products and school supplies are needed on an ongoing operational basis. The club is also hosting a handmade ornament drive all month long to raise funds needed for games and supplies.

For more information about how you can help support the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress, or for information about any club programs or activities, please call 714-527-2697, stop by the club or visit their website at www.boysandgirlsclubofcypress.com.

Newly-elected state Senator Tony Mendoza (D-Norwalk) kicked off the holidaysby distributing Thanksgiving turkeys to local charity groups and civic organizations.

“Operation Gobble enablesorganizations to distribute turkeys to those most inneed,” said Mendoza, who partnered with the San Gabriel Valley Water Company, and Golden State Water Company.  “In these hard times, it is importanttohelp our neighbors, so the holidays are great for everyone,”statedMendoza, who assumes office for his first term in the Senate on December 1st.

Senator-Elect Tony Mendoza will be representing the 32ndState Senate District, which covers Artesia, Bellflower, Buena Park, Cerritos, Commerce, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, Hacienda Heights, La Habra Heights, Lakewood, La Mirada, Montebello, Norwalk, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South Whittier, and Whittier.

Groups taking part in the food event included the Community Family Guidance Center(Cerritos); the senior program, TLC Family Resource Center and PTA H.E.L.P.S. (Downey); the Hawaiian Gardens Food Bank; Su Casa (Lakewood); Lions Club/Rotary/Soroptimist, EBAM Education Bodies & Mind, the Potrero Heights Park Community and Senior Center(Montebello); the American Legion(Norwalk); LA-CADA and the Interfaith Food Center(Santa Fe Springs); and the Boys and Girls Club, Salvation Army and Los Nietos Service Center-Food Pantry(Whittier).

On Oct. 23, the Cypress Council PTA and the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress planned and hosted a Halloween-themed Family Literacy Night.  Approximately 150 people attended the event from ten different schools in the Cypress, Los Alamitos, and Anaheim Union school districts.

Every family in attendance received a free pizza dinner before enjoying a variety of Halloween-themed literacy stations.  Each station featured a fun Halloween read-aloud followed by a hands-on extension activity that parents and their children could participate in together. Some of the more popular stations included making cookie witch hats, creating words from “dragon’s eggs”, and painting monsters.

The event was made possible through a reading grant from Target. At the conclusion of the event, all members that visited at least four of the eight stations received a free book. Books were donated by the Molina Foundation’s “Book Buddies” program, which focuses on bringing books to schools and after school programs serving low-income families.

To find out how you can support programs at the Boys & Girls Club of Cypress, or for more information about Cypress Council PTA, please contact Sue Osbon, Director of Operations at 714-527-2697 x202 or sosbon@bgccypress.org.