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Los Al Council approves Senior Master Plan

David N. Young
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Los Al Council approves Senior Master Plan

The Los Alamitos City Council gave a thumbs up to a proposal from the Recreation Director to begin thinking about ways to provide expanded services and recreation to its senior population from 50-100 years old.

City Manager Chet Simmons said he was especially proud to see the city moving into an area of specialization that currently, only Orange County itself seems to be developing.
“I am personally incredibly excited about this particular item,” said Simmons, “for a city of our size to take on this type of programming, or this kind of master plan is, I will have to say, is best in class simply because there is no class. The only entity that I’m aware of is doing this is the county,” he said.

Recreation Director Emeline Noda, who has been employed by the city for 16 years, told the Council that she has overseen the city’s senior programs that entire time.
“I’ve done a tremendous amount of work to figure out our population and their needs,” she said, “as they are different than in other cities I’ve been employed with.”
“You will not find one of our seniors at our center five days a week because they go to all kinds of different centers around the local area,” she said. “Our seniors are active,” she said.

But, said Noda, the challenge has been with a growing number of seniors, how does the city actively handle activities as the senior population expands in the future.

Currently, she said, “a total of 34 percent is over 50,” suggesting it will not be easy to properly program activities for the spectrum of ages from 50 – 100.
Noda asked for approximately $70,000 to prepare a “Senior Services Master Plan” that would create a working model for programming in the city to accommodate the next 20 years.

“It will model a pathway for seniors for the next 20 years,” said Noda, noting that “we are honored to take on this challenge.”

As an example, she said activities for 50-year-olds will include adult sports while activities for seniors 80 and 90 might also include sports but would accommodate the additional years. “And there are some that are just bingo players,” she said.

Noda said the city will engage with local universities and their gerontology departments as well as consultants to do outreach. She said the city did a senior needs assessment in 2022, but it was a smaller sample of 100 seniors already participating in the program.
She said there are many seniors in the community who don’t participate either because they don’t know about the programs or do not have transportation to participate.

“I have a passion, our team is dedicated to serving this population,” said Noda.
“We want to find what is going to work for our particular community,” she told the Council, “and reaching further, we want to serve our veterans and this plan will incorporate them.”
“We want to go into the community and find the answers,” said Noda, adding that funding would “help us do it right.”

Simmons said such a senior master plan would play well with the city’s active transportation plan and its town center plan.

“Having these plans in place allows us access to (state and federal) money that is out there because we’ve shown that we’ve already done the research to show that there are partners in the community that are willing to be a part of this,” he said.

“And the simple fact that we have two universities willing to partner with us is impressive,” said Simmons. “I do believe we are getting some benefit of being the small, little mighty city that COULD.”

“I feel like it would be an investment into the future,” said Mayor Tanya Doby. “We become forerunners for any funding that does become available because our program will be shovel ready,” the mayor said.

Noda told Council member Trisha Murphy that the plan would cover only 20 years because “that’s typically what general plans and master plans of this kind foresee because facilities do age so this plan would give us insight into what type of Infrastructure we would need to build.”

Council member Shelley Hasselbrink said she liked the general “socialization” envisioned by the plan.

“I’m a firm believer, my grandmother lived to be 97 and the reason is because Palm Springs has an amazing senior program. Every day, she had a reason to get up, get dressed and go out with her buddies, so I’m really excited about getting the community involved with volunteer activities,” said Hasselbrink.

“We take really good care of our youth which, in turn, takes really good care of our parents. It’s time we take care of our seniors because they are not going anywhere,” said Hasselbrink.

The Council unanimously approved the motion to fund the Master Plan.

Former Mayor Troy Edgar speaks to Los Al Chamber

Loreen Berlin
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Former Mayor Troy Edgar speaks to Los Al Chamber

During the recent Los Alamitos Chamber of Commerce’s Luncheon, which was hosted by Petrini Pizza Napoletana’s Owner Blair Petrini, 5262 Katella Ave., in Los Alamitos, former Los Alamitos Mayor Troy Edgar was the guest speaker.

He began by asking how many people had heard of a Podcast and/or had their own Podcast. It was approximately one-half of the room who had listened to a Podcast or had their own.

His Podcast is Ameritocracy and his message to Chamber members was about hosting the Podcast.

Podcasts, it seems can strengthen a person’s business and are convenient in allowing subscribers to listen when they have time, while Podcasts are also a cost-effective way to produce content and are a good form of modern communication.

Edgar provided an overview of the podcast industry and why it has become a popular format to communicate and connect with listeners.
He spoke about the success of his podcast Ameritocracy, which he launched earlier this year and said that the show focuses on merit, success, and the American Dream.

“I want to share what I’ve learned in hopes of helping others who may have an interest in hosting a show.”

Edgar explained that, “A podcast is a digital audio or video program that’s made available for streaming or downloading over the Internet,” going on to say that, “Podcasts cover a wide range of topics and genres, including news, education, entertainment, storytelling, comedy, technology and health, as well as others.”

He said that his national show is weekly, with new episodes released every Thursday. “Ameritocracy provides interviews and discusses current events and policies to provide a personal and professional mentoring resource for listeners,” he continued.

Edgar said his show has hosted an interesting and diverse cast of guests including business and military leaders, entertainment personalities, authors, artists, and politicians including U.S. Representatives Michelle Steel and Lou Correa.

Photo by Loreen Berlin
Newest Los Alamitos Chamber Member is Dr. Footman, left, pictured with Chamber Chairperson Nesi Stewart, owner of PrintMasters of Los Alamitos.

He stressed that, “It’s important to provide listeners with a unique interview that brings new information and an engaging approach, allowing guests to feel comfortable, so they can really bring their stories and advice to life.”

Edgar spoke to an over-flowing crowd of guests that including the Mayor and all of the Los Alamitos City Councilmembers, City Staff and LAUSD School Board and Superintendent Dr. Andrew Pulver.

He has an impressive resume that includes having served on the Los Alamitos City Council

from 2006 to 2018 (three times as Mayor); still active in the community and continues to serve on the board of Casa Youth Shelter. He’s a Fortune 500 executive for IBM, operating their Federal Finance and Supply Chain, consulting business in Washington, D.C.

He and his wife, Betty, still maintain a home in Los Alamitos, even though they spend considerable time on the East Coast; they are parents to three grown sons who graduated from Los Alamitos High School and live locally and in Texas.

No Second Chance presentation at St. Irenaeus Church

For Event-News Enterprise
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No Second Chance presentation at St. Irenaeus Church

By Rosemary Lewallen

Amy Neville, head of the Alexander Neville Foundation, spoke on Oct. 25th at the Facts on Fentanyl Forum to a group of about 65 parents and teens at St. Irenaeus’ Parish Hall. The dramatic documentary film, “dead on arrival,” was shown after a welcome by Jennifer Dagarag, St. Irenaeus’ Faith Community Nurse. Pastor, Fr. Binh Nguyen, offered an opening prayer. Then, Amy Neville, whose son, Alexander, died of fentanyl poisoning at age 14, presented stark statistics about fentanyl.

We learned that one pill containing fentanyl can kill a grown person. It is “a powerful synthetic opioid, similar to morphine, but 50-100 times more powerful.” Fentanyl is odorless and tasteless and more addictive than heroin. Doctors prescribe fentanyl for pain in micrograms, not grams. The maximum dose is 75 micrograms. However, it is also distributed illegally as a powder or pill that looks the same as prescription drugs. Fentanyl creates feelings of euphoria, but can lead to slowed breathing, chest rigidity, slowed heart rate, unconsciousness, coma, and death. Between 2020 and 2022 there was a 70% increase in fentanyl-related deaths. In Orange County, fentanyl was the leading cause of death of teens age 17 or younger in 2021. There has been a 1800% increase in fentanyl deaths since 2016.

It is not unusual for teens in junior high and high school to experiment and seek new experiences. They are curious, smart, but often impulsive. It is estimated that 44% of high school students are likely to try drugs. Unfortunately, the poor choice of taking even one pill containing fentanyl is often lethal. Amy discussed the ease of purchasing illicit drugs like OxyContin, Xanax and Percocet on social media sites like Snapchat. That’s what Alexander Neville did. He thought he was buying OxyContin online, but the street drug delivered to his home contained a deadly amount of fentanyl. Amy tearfully told Alexander’s story. Her mission is to prevent this tragedy from happening to other families.
The take-away messages to teens were to remember what they had seen and heard that evening, seek help from a trusted adult, and never take anything not prescribed for them. Amy advised that Naloxone, the antidote to fentanyl, be a normal part of our first aid kits because you never know whose life you may save. She suggested that parents take the time to find out what’s motivating their kids, empathize with them, don’t minimize their problems, but listen and try to understand. It’s also helpful to find out what they already know about drugs.

The Alexander Neville Foundation is a non-profit organization that promotes peer-to-peer youth education and spreading drug awareness. All work is pro-bono. If you are interested in more information, see in**@*****lp.org. If you would like Amy Neville to share her experience and knowledge about fentanyl and other drugs with your organization, you can contact her at am*@******lp.org or 480-213-3705.

First step always the hardest

David N. Young
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First step always the hardest

Change is never easy, and the first step always seems to be the hardest.
We are again living in a world at war, but in some ways, we should perhaps recognize the war we are waging on ourselves.

For all of its benefits, the internet has produced a vast digitocracy where algorithms served to us by tech companies influence how we think, act and feel.

So the most important stories are those we tell ourselves, and those are too often influenced by content that serves not our interest nor the public interest.

In many instances, our thinking is now influenced by messaging on the little devices we carry around each day. And when those messages begin to dehumanize anyone we disagree with, we see extreme behavior across the political spectrum. Full stop.

It saddened me this week when a longtime reader wrote to say he had a great idea and strong beliefs he wanted to express, but for the first time, he was afraid to let people really know what he thought.

“I share my thoughts with friends and family,” he said, but basically, “I cannot ignore the negative stuff out there. And I must note also that I never thought I would actually not speak the truth as I see it…everywhere.”
For me, quite a sobering statement and I think it is a view that is shared by more and more of our neighbors.
But then, should we not be alarmed rather than surprised?
Demonization has nearly eliminated the moderation and social glue that kept us together for more than two centuries. Political opponents create division, demonize the other side and think nothing of it.

Not so long ago, a political climate existed in which neighbors could voraciously argue over their respective fences yet watch football and barbeque together on Saturday afternoons. Not so much now.

It’s not that moderates no longer exist. In fact, I would argue that vast majorities still are somewhere in the middle of our political spectrum. Like our reader, however, more and more citizens who pay the taxes sit back and say nothing rather than expose themselves to the fury of those who may disagree.

But the fact remains, for whatever reasons, we have created a world in which there is a price to be paid for truth and transparency and it is a very slippery slope.

Should we not ask ourselves, what will come of us if we reach the point where no one is willing to speak up? The hardest thing to measure is how close we are to the point of no return and how much more dehumanization we can withstand.

The signs are everywhere and oft depicted in contemporary books.

According to political scientist and author Eric D. Weitz, in his book “A Century of Genocide: Utopias of Race and Nation,” political violence can suppress freedom of speech. Fear of reprisals and violence can lead people to self-censor their views and reduce their willingness to engage in open dialogue.

As outlined in his book “The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion,” social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, suggests that political violence can reinforce tribalism and polarization.

Political violence erodes trust in society’s institutions and fellow citizens, which can hinder tolerance and cooperation.

Just this week, political violence in SoCal took the life of a man protesting in Thousand Oaks.

It’s no longer a world away but the war against ourselves is raging and one in which there will be no winners. We’re walking a plank of our own making.

This is not to say everything is terrible because it’s not. Truth is, we live in great communities. The irony is that when there is trouble in Cypress, Los Al, La Palma or anywhere local, our residents put differences aside to help each other out.

Yet we must find balance in our civic affairs. Learn to listen again. Demonization and dehumanization are tactics so obviously destroying the fabric of tolerance we have for so long enjoyed.

How many more citizens will decide civic engagement is no longer worth the cost? The cliff is in sight, yet it’s full steam ahead.

Change is indeed hard, and the first step is always the hardest. Who will take it?
That’s the problem.

More Transparency Needed in Local Governments

For Event-News Enterprise
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More Transparency Needed in Local Governments

Dear Editor,

I want to commend you for your “Perspective & Opinion” article on November 1st, “Warned by waning interest.” The alarming statistics you cite on the current decline of interest in public affairs in America are a danger to the preservation of our democracy. We need to remember the words of French political scientist, Alexis de Tocqueville, author of Democracy in America (1835), when he advised, “It is above all in the present democratic age that the true friends of liberty and human grandeur must remain constantly vigilant and ready to prevent the social power from lightly sacrificing the particular rights of a few individuals to the general execution of its designs.”

It is hard to be vigilant if local governments are not transparent in their meetings and communications with the people they represent. They need to be reminded that their job is to serve those who elected them and be accountable to them.

I applaud the Event-News Enterprise for publishing “fact-filled journalism.” We need to appreciate the important role of our Fourth Estate (the press and news media) in uncovering the truth and providing information. I also thank you for printing the contact information of our elected officials to make it easier for everyone to reach them. Newspapers provide a vital public service. Keep up the good work!

Rosemary Lewallen
Cypress

Dear Editor,

Residents of Rossmoor Highlands are being plagued by mice! In early September while home with my toddler and newborn baby I saw a single mouse in the kitchen.
From that point on it became a daily occurrence, finding a new mouse inside the house until about mid September when we called pest control because our DIY options no longer felt effective. Even now, I see dead mice as I walk my baby through the neighborhood.
And to top it off, today there was a mouse in our pool! It is out of control

Mona Reed, Los Alamitos

Dear Editor,

Thank you for the Editorial.

I remember first learning about government in a political science class in “junior high school,” as it was known in the 60s. The concept of checks and balances; branches of government; how a bill was passed; the importance of voting and other general governmental concepts were taught between ages 12-14.

I think it was the first time students were taught how to “think” as opposed to memorizing the 50 states and their capitals. I recall the teacher told us we were required to read the newspaper every day, and bring it to class and discuss articles we read.

I remember telling my mother I did not understand what I was reading (Front Page) and she said “you have to read the paper every day…not just once and a while.” I have been a daily subscriber to the LA Times for decades. Political Science should be a required class for every student before they get to high school.

Carol Churchill, Rossmoor

 

NCL raises $13,000 for local scholarships

For Event-News Enterprise
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NCL raises $13,000 for local scholarships

It was a day of fundraising and style for the National Charity League South Coast Chapter’s annual Fashion Show at the Westin Downtown Long Beach. This year’s theme was “The World is Your Runway.” The beloved event celebrated this year’s Junior and Senior class ladies.

It culminated six years of cultural and leadership growth within the NCL organization, focusing on the leadership pillar of teaching poise and confidence as the young ladies walked the runway. Together, the attendees raised over $13,000 for the all-new South Coast Scholarship program, a philanthropy that awards financial college scholarships to young women overcoming extreme hardship in our local communities.

The yearly event is organized and hosted by the mothers and daughters of the NCL ninth-grade freshman class. National Charity League was founded in 1925, and our mission is to foster the mother-daughter relationship through ongoing commitments to philanthropy, culture, and leadership. The NCL South Coast Chapter was founded in 1962 and serves the communities of Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Cypress, and Long Beach. Learn more by following us on Instagram @nclsouthcoast.

Weekly High School football roundup

Ted Apodaca
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Weekly High School football roundup

The Kennedy High football team advanced to the second round of the CIF-SS Division 10 playoffs with a 28-14 win over Crescenta Valley on Friday at Glover Stadium.

The Fighting Irish quarterback Devin Alamazan threw for 169 yards and three touchdowns and the Irish rushing attack added another 143 yards and a score to lead the Fighting Irish. Rider Street paced the ground game with 117 rushing yards and Isaac Talamantes punched in Kennedy’s rushing touchdown.

Almazan spread the ball around as six different receivers combined for 12 receptions. Devin Bell had four receptions and one touchdown. Drew Deese and John Bivens each had a touchdown reception, while Street had two receptions for 41 yards and led the team in all-purpose yards with 158.

Gio Santos had a big night on defense with two sacks and three solo tackles. Riley Schow and Deon Bynum each had a team-high six total tackles and John Bivens had an interception and a fumble recovery.

The Fighting Irish (7-4) will travel to Xavier Prep of Palm Desert on Friday for a second round game against the Saints. Xavier Prep is the third-place team out the Desert Empire League and is coming off a 14-3 win over one of their league rivals, La Quinta High of La Quinta.

Centurions roll past Rio Mesa
Cypress High football team advanced to the second round of the CIF-SS Division 6 playoffs with a 50-24 win over Rio Mesa on Friday.
Senior quarterback Aidan Houston threw for 164 yards and four touchdowns, but it was the running game that kept Rio Mesa’s defense working. The Centurions compiled 331 yards on the ground, also led by Houston, who rolled up 176 yards on 20 carries. Senior Jesse Mauldin added 108 yards and one touchdown, while Joshua Brito added another rushing touchdown.
Mauldin had 56 yards receiving and a touchdown, while Michael Hubbard, Kaden Hollenbeck and Rocco Burdett also had touchdown receptions.
Bruno Caldarella had 10 total tackles, including seven solo, as well as an interception to help lead the defense. Tyler White and Burdett each had nine total tackles, while Brady Sjostrom added seven.
The Centurions (6-4) will next travel to Manhattan Beach to take on Mira Costa (4-7) in the quarterfinals of the playoffs. Mira Costa was the third-place team out of the Bay League and defeated Yucaipa, 28-13 in their first-round win.

Griffins top Upland
Los Alamitos High football will take on Serra High of Gardena on Friday in the CIF-SS Division 2 quarterfinals after the Griffins defeated Upland, 56-31 in their first-round game.
Serra, the third-place team out of the Mission League defeated league rival Bishop Amat, 48-14 in their playoff opener. Friday’s quarterfinal game will be at 7 p.m. at Serra High.

Cypress High set to announce State-of-the-art sports facility

For Event-News Enterprise
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Cypress High set to announce State-of-the-art sports facility

Cypress High School, an institution dedicated to excellence in education and athletics, is thrilled to announce the groundbreaking ceremony for its new, top-of-the-line track and field facilities. The ceremony is scheduled for November 13, 2023, at 4:00 PM on the grounds of Cypress High School, located at 9801 Valley View Street, Cypress, CA 90630.

This ambitious project promises to equip current and prospective student-athletes with premium features, including a professional-grade all-weather track, a synthetic turf football field, dedicated areas for track and field events, soccer, marching band, and a new JV Softball field. The facility will also feature seating to accommodate about 1,600 fans and is designed to host CIF competitions, furthering the school’s commitment to athletic excellence and community involvement.

“We are overjoyed to initiate the construction of this significant development that reflects our commitment to our students’ competitive and personal growth,” said Jennifer Brown, Principal of Cypress High School. “These facilities are set to become a centerpiece for community engagement, pride, and school spirit for generations.”
The groundbreaking event will feature addresses from essential contributors to the project. The Cypress High School band and cheerleaders will perform, infusing the event with the school’s unique energy and enthusiasm.
This endeavor is supported through the generosity of our AUHSD school board. Cypress High School extends its deepest thanks to everyone who played a role in turning this vision into a reality.

The ceremony will be broadcast live on the school’s YouTube channel, CTV, for those unable to attend in person. A meet-n-greet will follow the ceremony, offering a chance to interact with the project’s architects, construction team, school officials, and student-athletes.
For more details about the groundbreaking event or to arrange interviews with school representatives, please get in touch with Joseph Boardwine, Assistant Principal, at (714) 220-4144 or bo*********@***sd.us.

Cypress High School is eager to share this significant milestone with the community and to the future successes that the new track and field facilities will cultivate.

Situated in Cypress, CA, Cypress High School has been committed to academic and athletic distinction for 50 years. Serving a diverse student body of over 2800 students, the school offers a robust curriculum and a comprehensive range of extracurricular activities, including a highly competitive athletics program. Cypress High School takes pride in supporting its students both in their academic and athletic endeavors.

Griffins wear down Edison en route to Sunset League title

Ted Apodaca
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Griffins wear down Edison en route to Sunset League title

The Los Alamitos High captured the Sunset League Championship with a 21-10 win over Edison on Friday at Veteran’s Stadium, Long Beach.

The league title marked the fourth in a row for the Griffins and the fourth consecutive year of going 5-0 in league play. Edison hung around, trailing just 14-7 at halftime and then added a field goal in the fourth quarter to cut the lead to 14-10.

But the Griffins added another touchdown after the defense forced two intentional grounding penalties on Edison and the Griffins got the ball off a punt at the 44 yard line. Anthony League broke a big run for a key first down and Lenny Ibarra capped the short drive with a touchdown run that pushed the lead to 21-10 with 5:44 left in the game.

Edison did a good job of using most of the play clock and grinding out first downs with run plays to shorten the game and limit the number of offensive plays for the Griffins. After running up big scores in their first four games, Griffin Head Coach Ray Fenton was not surprised by the low scoring game against Edison.

“So what you’ve got is a really great game plan on their end to shorten the game, and they play really good defense,” Fenton said.

But the Griffins also started the game with a steady game plan that got them out to a 14-0 lead with sustained drives that put pressure on the Edison defense. On the game’s opening drive, the Griffins drove 70 yards with quarterback Alonzo Esparza completing key passes to Hayden Eligon and Ibarra. Then on fourth and two, League broke free for an 11-yard touchdown run to give the Griffins a 7-0 lead.

Edison followed with a drive to the Griffin 36 yard line, but the defense batted down a pass attempt on fourth and 6 and the Griffins took over. Another long drive, aided by a roughing the passer penalty and a pass interference got the Griffins down to the Edison seven yard line. From there, Jerod Terry Jr. capped the drive with a touchdown run that pushed the lead to 14-0.

Fenton noted that the Griffins’ depth on the defensive line was a key to wearing down the Chargers. It could also bode well for the Griffins in the playoffs.

“So what you’ve got is a really great game plan on their end to shorten the game, and they play really good defense,” Fenton said.

The Griffins open the CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs with a home game against Upland High, the No. 1 team out of the Baseline League. The game will be at 7 p.m. Friday at Westminster High School.

Neighbors show appreciation to Los Al police with cookout, picnic

David N. Young
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Neighbors show appreciation to Los Al police with cookout, picnic

The smell of barbeque wafted through the neighborhood of College Park North in Los Alamitos Thursday as neighbors put on quite a tasty spread for the Los Alamitos Police Department.

Los Alamitos Police officers flooded the neighborhood throughout the afternoon, coordinating their shifts among themselves to ensure the city remained protected while they rotated in and out to get a meal of barbequed ribs, chicken, macaroni and cheese, baked beans, homemade cookies and even apple pies from Polly’s (among dozens of other dishes and treats made by the residents).

Officers sat around a table eating their barbeque which was adorned with a miniature centerpiece made with a tiny, stuffed police dog named Elvis, which is the name of the city’s new police K-9 dog. Chief Michael Claborn said recently that Elvis, the real police dog, is on the way and will be fully trained and will be patrolling the streets by early 2024.
In addition to the block party, residents also provided monetary donations to help the police department acquire the dog, said Council member Trisha Murphy, who is a resident of College Park North.

L-R, Trisha Murhphy, Eric Larson, Sen. Janet Nguyen and Shauna Trute.
Courtesy photo

“I just want to say thank you so much for coming out today and supporting our Los Alamitos police department who do so much for the community,” she said in introducing two of her neighbors who helped to organize the event.
Shauna Trute, a neighbor who helped organize the event, said the local PD has always been there for her and her neighbors.

“They are always so awesome to us, we wanted to do something for them,” said Trute, one of the event organizers, who lives in the neighborhood.

She and resident Eric Larson, with the assistance of Los Al Council members Trisha Murphy and Emily Hibard, put together an old-fashioned small-town ‘thank your local police’ event.”
“The genesis of this event was back at that Fourth of July party,” said Larson, when Los Al Police was on hand to participate and ensure their neighborhood parade and party was safe.

“You guys and girls from the Los Alamitos police department that came out and we’re very appreciative of all you do, we’re always going to support you guys and girls,” said Larson.
“This neighborhood is a great neighborhood. These events are the types of things we need to do to take care of each other, take care of the community, take care of the state of California,” he said.

State Senator Janet Nguyen briefly stopped by the event, presenting certificates to Trute and Larson.

“With neighborhood neighbors like this, I want to live here. I’m so jealous,” the state Senator said, adding her support for the men and women in blue.

“I want to make sure that I’m here to thank our police department and our police officers,” said Nguyen. “We know that you don’t always get a thank you from folks. But do you know a lot of us, the majority of us love you and we will do anything to stand by your side, not behind you,” she added.

“We will stand by your side and make sure that we protect the blue back the blue because we know that every day you leave your home. You don’t ever know if you’re going to go back home and so we have never forgotten that,” she added.

Evan Flynn, President of the Los Alamitos Police Officers Association, who attended the event, said the neighborhood barbeque is a “great way to develop bigger and better bonds for police in the community.”

“This demonstrates a tremendous effort on behalf of the city to build those bridges between the POA and the city council,” said Flynn, especially as the city and police are about to enter into negotiations over a new contract.

Until city voters approved a 1.5 percent sales tax increase in 2020, the City of Los Alamitos faced severe budget woes that hindered everything from pension payments to police department staffing.

When Michael Claborn became police chief in 2022, he vowed to staff up the department and has since been hiring new officers and modernizing the department to include technology and other innovations such as a K-9 unit.

Flynn said events like the College Park North police barbeque reflect the changing dynamics between the department and the community it protects.

“Things like this definitely puts us at ease and makes us feel that we’re going to have a nice working relationship with the city,” which, according to Flynn, can, at times, become “quite contentious.”

“This makes us feel it’s going to be easy,” said Flynn. “At the end of the day, I try to boil it down to simplest terms, it’s a business. The city has a business and a POA is the organization that represents the employees of that business.”

“I think that you know, it just comes down to an understanding of, you know, this is a business they the city has their bottom line that they must meet to continue offering employment to everyone and offering this place to be a great city for all residents,” he said.
Council member Emily Hibard also attended the event.

Murphy thanked all of the neighbors for coming and working together to make the event happen.

“Thank you, everybody for coming in and for participating. I know we got off to a rocky start as far as how we were going to do this, so thank you for everybody. Maybe we can make this an annual event,” she said.

dnyphoto
Neighbors prepare neighborhood feast to thank Los Al police officers for their efforts in keeping the community safe.

“We really appreciate all you do,” she said on behalf of her neighborhood.

Residents claim building solar farm unleashed rat infestation

David N. Young
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Residents claim building solar farm unleashed rat infestation

A resident who says she has studied the matter asserted the new solar farm installed at the Joint Forces Training Base is producing a swarm of rats and mice so large it is costing homeowners thousands to protect themselves.

“The project on the base with 1000 solar panels on 50 acres of unended soil is causing rat and mice problems across the city. I know this is not technically your purview, it’s the Joint Forces Training Base’s land, but it has become a community problem,” Los Al resident Sallie Rodman told the Council.

The project, she said, “is causing rat and mice problems across the city.”
“It is really a problem,” said Rodman, and rats are running wild.

“They’re running through our garages, and our attics, and even our houses. And so we’re doing all we can, but this cost us money,” she added.

“I’ve got five bait boxes,” said Rodman. “I had to redo the end insulation in my attic for $7,000 because they (rats) ate their way into what I thought was a rat-proof house,” she exclaimed.

In addition to the nuisance/damage factor, Rodman said there’s always a concern about disease.

Rats and mice, she said, are known carriers of what she called “the disease factor.”

“I’m also worried about that because the rats and mice have ticks, mites, and fleas on them, which can carry many diseases including Lyme disease,” said the concerned owner.
“It’s a community problem and it’s in Seal Beach, it’s in Garden Grove. It’s in Cypress… everybody’s complaining about it,” said Rodman.

She asked the Council to intervene and help residents ask the Joint Forces Training Base for compensation to mitigate the costs residents are facing to deal with the infusion of rats and mice.

I know they sell their electricity from the solar panels to San Diego, maybe they could put a little bit of a surcharge on there for us to help us out,” she told the Council.
“I don’t know what the solution is myself. I’m just asking you to help us facilitate the solution,” asked Rodman.

The ENE has reached out to the solar company and JFTB for comment.

In other action on Sunday, the council learned from Police Chief Michael Claborn that the city will soon be home to a $350,000 piece of military equipment.

In actuality, said Claborn, the armored vehicle is part of the Urban Area Security initiative and would be paid for entirely using a grant.

“This is a regional asset that will be utilized for anti-terrorism, training and education purposes,” the police chief said. The grant facilitates an additional piece of equipment to be available for west Orange County in emergencies, he said.

Claborn told the Council that the only piece of similar equipment available to law enforcement authorities in the region was a 2009 version of the vehicle that he said was now somewhat “outdated” that is currently staged in Westminster.

With the equipment now staged in Los Alamitos, Claborn said the city would have the first right of refusal to utilize the equipment should it be needed for a quicker response time for any type of active shooter incident or be used as a rescue vehicle if needed for any kind of barricaded active shooter for any type of school shooting or similar incident.

In addition, new technology on the emergency vehicle allows for the simultaneous mitigation of fire threats while providing armored cover, said Claborn.

“This vehicle would allow us to mitigate that while attempting to extract or address any type of threat that may be in that environment,” he said, “because up until this point the technology has not been able to allow fire and police to address a situation at the same time.”

He said law enforcement authorities would cooperate with the Orange County Fire Authority in such situations.

He also made it clear that the new vehicle would be available for other law enforcement and security authorities throughout the region should any incident occur where the military type vehicle might be useful.

In other action, the Los Alamitos City Council heard from Lora Young, an official with the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District explain its overall operations.

In short, she said the agency, one of only two with district wide authority, basically is charged with the responsibility to control “any insect that can bite or transmit disease.”
With a board large enough to contain a representative from each of Orange County’s 35 cities, she detailed their operations and noted that there are 27 various types of mosquitos present in Orange County.

And, she said, the recent heavy rains have produced an abundance of the pesky mosquitos, with Young noting that the year has seen a volume of mosquitos four times the average.
In addition to abatement activities, she said the agency staffs state of the art laboratories to check for diseases in mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, etc. to keep Orange County communities safe.

In other action, the Council;

• Celebrated Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation month by recognizing its Code Enforcement staff.

• Recognized Debbie Jackobs from Flags with a Flair as business of the month.

• Thanked retiring employee Trina Zenovka from the City’s Parks and Recreation department for her service to the City.

Boys and Girls Club celebrate success

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Boys and Girls Club celebrate success

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress had plenty to talk about at its “Celebrate Our Success” Reception recently, hosted and underwritten by Chef Bruno Serato at The White House Restaurant in Anaheim. The informative event commenced with a gracious toast by Chef Bruno Serato, Owner of the stunning and elegant White House Restaurant, who reminisced about his close collaborative relationship with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress over the past 18 years. Then Anne Hertz-Mallari, Club CEO, took to the podium to welcome all guests and declare, “I am thrilled to share that in less than two years, our Club has more than doubled in size!”

Indeed, this Club on an annual basis serves 2,700 members at its 18 Clubhouses, with an additional nearly 2,400 youth served through the Club’s community outreach events and special programs. Through the clubs inclusive approach to providing services and programs each year, more than 5,000 youth have been positively impacted.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress has provided caring guidance and support to thousands of kids and teens for over three decades, in order to help them grow into confident, capable adults. The Club realizes that young people today need their help more than ever. The Club’s professional mentors provide experiences and opportunities that help create confident, healthy, motivated, and educated young people who have a plan for the future and a path for achieving their dreams. It is the Club’s belief that when young people have exposure to inspiring ideas and incredible opportunities, as well as, the tools to build their self-confidence, they can take on anything! Serving some of the most vulnerable youth in our communities, Boys & Girls Club of Anaheim-Cypress provides free and low-cost after-school and summer programs for young people ages kindergarten through 12th grade. These Club members have access to invaluable academic support, hands-on science programs, service clubs, college readiness programs, and workforce development programs, all of which help young people to graduate high school with a definite plan for their future.

“Almost all of the children in our Anaheim Clubhouses and many of the children in our Cypress Clubhouses live below the poverty line,”said Anne Hertz-Mallari. “When a child attends our programs, that child is more likely than their peers to abstain from risky behavior. Instead, they get what I wanted for my own kids every day — a healthy snack, time and help to do homework, some fun, healthy outdoor sports, a chance to explore their creativity through art, science and music, and a hot meal at the end of the day.”

She also pointed to “the hundreds of kids each year who receive shoes, clothing, jackets, school supplies, groceries, etc.” through the Boys & Girls Clubs’ partnership with organizations such as Each One Teach One and the Angels Baseball Foundation. Hertz-Mallari then went on to inform guests of the numerous other impressive accomplishments this Club has experienced over the past year, including:

• The opening of 9 new Clubhouses, each at a Magnolia School District Elementary School, to serve children and families in Anaheim.

• The opening soon of 5 additional Clubhouses in Cypress, four on elementary school campuses and re-opening one on the campus of Cypress College.

• Partnerships with ATT and Disney to expand the Club’s STEM and Workforce Development programs.

• The 100% elimination of fees for the Club’s Teen programs, which has the Club on track to double its regular teen attendance this year.

A special surprise during the event was the announcement of Jon E. Peat, past Board Chair, receiving the prestigious Maytag Dependable Leader Award, which was presented by current Board Chair Chuck Emanuele. This coveted Maytag Award recognizes Boys & Girls Club employees and volunteers who have dedicated their lives to serving young people. This Award also provides a $20,000 grant to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress. Over the course of nearly two decades, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Maytag have presented more than 110 Boys & Girls Clubs youth development professionals with a Maytag Dependable Leader Award and a $20,000 grant. Throughout this partnership, Maytag has provided nearly $10 million to help deserving youth reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Maytag partnered nationally with Boys & Girls Clubs of America to recognize exemplary Club professionals and volunteers from across the country with the Maytag Dependable Leader Award.

Jon Peat is a former Raytheon executive and former Mayor and Councilmember of Cypress, who has spent his life giving back to the community in so many ways. As Boys & Girls Club Board Chair, Jon facilitated and oversaw the successful merger of the Anaheim and Cypress Boys & Girls Clubs, which has resulted in new opportunities and benefits for youth in both of these communities.

“John is a dependable, wise, visionary leader who lives his values and demonstrate strong character through his engagement in community organizations, his church, and as a civic leader,” said Anne Hertz-Mallari. “When John joined the Board 15 years ago, he implemented a strategic planning process that helped us succeed as an organization and develop a highly engaged Board. John has been and continues to be an integral part of the community and of our Club. He continues to make the world a better place by setting the course, inspiring others, and reliably following through on his commitments and promises. This distinguished Maytag Dependable Leader Award is very well-deserved.”
“Thank you so much for this recognition,“ said Peat. “I am very proud of this Club, and in the awesome staff and volunteer leaders who are responsible for the successful growth of the Club.”

The celebration continued as Board Chair Chuck Emanuele invited all guests to support the Club’s “MOVING FORWARD” GALA & AUCTION, the Club’s ONLY major fundraising event of the social season, scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at one of Orange County’s newest venues, OC V!be Artic in Anaheim. This Gala & Auction will honor the Anaheim Ducks on their 30th year, and celebrate Outstanding Club Youth Achievement.
As Board Chair Chuck Emanuele said, “It is our Club’s one and only major fundraiser of the year, and we would greatly appreciate your support. It’s always a great time for a great cause! I invite you and a guest to join me as an Event Sponsor to help underwrite our valuable programs and services for youth in our community. Sponsorships range from $1,000 to $30,000 and are immediately available.

For Gala sponsorship information, please contact our Philanthropy Office at 714-491-3615 or email the Club at In**@*****************ub.org

Rep. Michelle Steel accepts recognition from Starbase at JFTB

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Rep. Michelle Steel accepts recognition from Starbase at JFTB

Rep. Michelle Steel (R-CA) has accepted recognition from STARBASE Los Alamitos, presented by Colonel Kenneth Koop of the California State Guard for her work to re-establish the bipartisan STARBASE Caucus.

“This Congress, I was proud to re-establish the STARBASE Caucus to advocate for the invaluable, hands-on educational experiences STARBASE provides students in Los Alamitos and across the United States,” said Steel. “To invest in our students’ STEM education is to invest in the next generation of our America’s leaders. That is why I was so excited to support the STARBASE program and bring awareness to my colleagues about its benefits through the Caucus.”

“STARBASE-Los Alamitos is one of the top three programs in the country, introducing California’s youth to the world of strategically important science and technology fields,” said Colonel Koop. “The California Military Department is grateful for Congressmember Steel’s leadership in the congressional STARBASE caucus, ensuring that the next generation of Californians remain excited about the promise of technology and continue to lead the nation in scientific innovation.”

Background
There are six STARBASE locations in California.
The Department of Defense’s (DOD) STARBASE program is an effective DOD outreach and STEM education awareness program for elementary and secondary school students. Students learn the importance of STEM skills in real world situations and develop essential math and science fundamentals, while fostering positive relationships between the military bases and local communities.

Evaluations of STARBASE participants show significant improvement in the students’ understanding, interest, and ability in math and science, which has led to increased enthusiasm in pursuing STEM education. Recent surveys of students showed knowledge scores of chemistry, engineering, math, physics and technology increased by 27.6%, while favorability scores of math and science showed clear improvement.

Nationwide, the program is one of the most cost-effective programs across the federal government, costing an average of only $328 per student in 2017. In the 2021-2022 school year, the program served more than 79,618 students in 1,558 schools, across 611 school districts. Nationwide, the program documented 10,435 volunteers, who contributed over 131,281 hours of labor to the program, valued at over $3.88 million dollars.

Fentanyl Awareness events planned for Rush Park

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Fentanyl Awareness events planned for Rush Park

The Rossmoor Community Services District will host a Fentanyl Awareness Night at Rush Park to make residents aware of what has become one of the largest killers of teenagers in Orange County.

According to Sgt. Brian Gunsolley, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the event will be held Nov. 16 from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Gunsolley spoke to the Rossmoor CSD Board of Directors meeting Tuesday, saying the department decided to get involved after Rossmoor resident Kimi Nilsen reached out to say she wanted to put on an event to make residents aware of Fentanyl’s dangers.

“She came to us and said look, I’m very passionate about this. I really want to do fentanyl awareness for my community,” he told the board.

Gunsolley said the Orange County Healthcare Agency will participate along with friends of Nilsen who have had personal experiences with the drug.

Gunsolley said the OC Healthcare Agency will be on hand to provide free Narcan to participants. Officials say Narcan, or Naloxone, is the only known treatment for Fentanyl poisoning.

Nilsen said she decided to get involved to protect her two sons, but she’s committed. “This is going to be an ongoing thing because I’m here to make a difference and this is my calling,” she said.

Perla Mendoza, the founder of Project Eli, who lost her son to a Fentanyl incident, said she will be part of a separate Fentanyl Town Hall at Rush Park on Nov. 8, scheduled from 5 – 6 p.m. It will feature Los Almatios Mayor Tanya Doby and RCSD President Tony Demarco.
She said the event will explain the Fentanyl crisis, offer safety tips for the holidays and free Narcan will be distributed to the Town Hall participants.

Rossmoor plans Wellness event for Nov. 4 at Rush Park

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Rossmoor plans Wellness event for Nov. 4 at Rush Park

Don’t miss out this weekend on Saturday November 4th for the Rossmoor Health Fair! Your health & wellness will thank you later, the Rossmoor Community Services District says in a press release.

Rossmoor Community Services District and local wellness event planner & yoga teacher Jamie Hulk “The Holistic Hulk” have partnered up to curate a day of health & wellness for our community at the Rossmoor Health Fair at Rush Park in Rossmoor Los Alamitos which will include: a donation-based 1 hour yoga class in the grass 11am – Noon, a free child CPR demonstration by Ciara Lyons-Ragains aka The Mama Coach 10:30am – 11am, a free FIT4MOM Stroller Strides class 11am – Noon, and most exciting the Vendor Street Fair Noon-4pm with a diverse, unique, expert group of local health & wellness businesses waiting to connect with you at their booths and showcase their various services & products that will benefit your current & long term health journey even after this health fair.
Many of the vendor booths will have exclusive prizes, discounts, giveaways, demos, helpful information, experts to answer your questions, and more only for guests that attend this event! Talk about a balanced day where you’ll feel energized and GREAT! Don’t have FOMO, mark your calendar and make it happen!

The best part? It’s FREE guest entry and street parking! “So, take a day for YOU and prioritize your wellness! You deserve it and are worth the effort” Jamie Hulk “The Holistic Hulk” says.

“Happier, healthier individuals lead to a happier, healthier world. Join the trickle butterfly effect & impact” Jamie Hulk “The Holistic Hulk” said. She strives to help people feel “empowered from the inside out”!

If you have any questions regarding this event, please call Jamie Hulk “The Holistic Hulk” at 562-704-2379 or email th*************@***il.com, or call the RCSD office.

Unions Improve well being for all

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Unions Improve well being for all

Dear Editor,

As the CEO/CFO of a small construction company in Southern California, I would like to express a perspective that may surprise many: I enthusiastically support the striking workers across the country and believe they should steadfastly uphold their values. In fact, I believe that now is an opportune moment for all labor unions in the United States to support one another in solidarity. In today’s socioeconomic landscape, unionization stands as the most potent means to improving the well-being of both individuals and the collective majority of workers in our nation. It is, therefore, unwise to leave your future to the capricious whims and impulses of corporate executives. You deserve better!

You may wonder why, as a business owner, I advocate for what appears to be corporate suicide. For nearly two decades, I have owned and operated a small-scale construction company. While we are unwavering in our commitment to customer service, quality, and profitability, we are equally dedicated to the well-being and equity of our workforce. That is why, from the very beginning, my company has proudly been a signatory contractor with the local labor union. And today, the total burden (actual cost to my company) to employ a union carpenter borders on $85 per hour, which covers everything from a $49 hourly wage, paid vacation, 100% healthcare coverage, pension, annuity, payroll taxes, etc. Moreover, given the seasonal nature of the construction industry, we typically employ around 30 individuals at any given time, and doing so places no economic burden on me or my business. Let that soak in. As the CEO, I could certainly choose to abandon the union and potentially generate exponential profits, but I already live a life of contentment and would rather nurture a team of dedicated leaders than lead by greed and exploitation.

I share this anecdote as a business owner to raise awareness and dispel certain myths perpetuated by anti-labor organizations and propaganda outlets regarding the supposed economic pitfalls of unionization. Specifically, I aim to convey that if my small-scale unionized business can thrive, then major corporate entities, such as automotive manufacturers, healthcare organizations, private universities, the entertainment industry, pharmaceutical companies, and more, unquestionably have the capacity to prioritize workplace and worker well-being. While such a shift toward offering a living wage, comprehensive healthcare, pensions, annuities, and paid vacation may necessitate radical organizational change, it is fundamentally the right course of action for the sake of human dignity. Labor unions simply serve as mediators in this essential process.

Labor unions foster equitable workplace standards and maintain the integrity of organizational operations by upholding an objective and sincere approach to business. Furthermore, regions in the United States with strong unions tend to coincide with pro-labor policies, which have a positive impact on non-union labor sectors within the regional economy. It is a mutually beneficial arrangement. We must not allow ourselves to be deceived by the anti-labor rhetoric and scare tactics designed to bolster corporate profits at the expense of worker exploitation. My final message to those brave people standing up for dignity and equity, despite powerful anti-union campaigns and rhetoric, is to know that your efforts are not in vain. Many of us fervently support your cause!

John C. Duff
Los Alamitos

There is a warning in waning interest in civic affairs

David N. Young
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There is a warning in waning interest in civic affairs

It’s no secret that American democracy is under pressure. Some go so far as to say at risk but at the very least, any citizen that is paying attention understands there is a problem.
Here’s a new problem. Fewer and fewer Americans seem to care about the news at all.

Forget for a moment the debate between misinformation, disinformation and manufactured truth, but a new survey indicates we, as a country, are losing interest in public affairs.
Algorithms follow our every move, serve us our “preferred” news and posts we like, and artificial intelligence can create impressive content as deep fake videos will soon perhaps elect candidates that do not exist.

The White House has announced a new initiative to mitigate the AI problem, but uncertainty remains.

It may be a bit early for that but for sure, the news malaise we feel now will only get worse early in 2024 when elections fire up and information machines churn their wicked content and dispatch individualized truth to their respective targets.

The declining trust has fueled a decline in overall interest among ordinary Americans, according to a nonprofit, non-partisan public information poll by the Pew Research Center. This comes amid changes in news consumption habits, declining trust in the media and high levels of news fatigue, the organization said.

In 2016, 51% of U.S. adults said they followed the news all or most of the time. But that share fell to 38% in 2022, the most recent time they asked this question.

In 2016, 57% of Republicans and independents who lean Rep­­ublican said they followed the news all or most of the time. In the 2022 survey, 37% said the same, a decrease of 20 points. By comparison, the share saying this among Democrats and Democratic leaners dropped by only 7 points, from 49% to 42%, the Pew Research Center said in its article.
In turn, a rising share of Americans say they follow the news only now and then. While 12% of adults said this in 2016, that figure increased to 19% by 2022. And while 5% of adults said in 2016 that they hardly ever follow the news, 9% said the same last year, said Pew.

Older adults are more likely to say they follow the news all or most of the time, while younger adults are less likely. However, Americans in all age groups have become less likely to say they follow the news all or most of the time since 2016.
Before we get lost in the political division and numbers, we can only expect these numbers to drop even further. As more devices to manufacture “truth” become operational, it becomes nearly impossible for citizens to discern what is real truth and what has been manufactured.

To be sure, political misinformation has been around since our country’s founding. What has not changed is our need to stay informed, thus the flood of data.

Locally, we have worked very hard to inform citizens with information they can trust. We publish fact-filled journalism to create insights that inform to motivate civic engagement.
Democracy’s decline, or ascent, begins not necessarily in Washington DC but also here, close to home, where we live, work and play.

Therefore, we have revamped our editorial page and are gearing up to listen to our readers. Local governments have for some reason made it harder to correspond with the officials elected to represent them, we are urging our readers to become more, not less, interested in the affairs of their local officials.

We have published the contact information of many local officials. Civic engagement is the only solution to a vibrant, functioning democracy.

Attention is as vital to civic engagement as water to the vitality of a living plant.
Every year, local governments spend more than $100 million of your money. Governments and contractors do not seem especially excited for the public to always know how that money is being spent.

One local government refuses to allow cameras in city hall while their audio remains only marginally discernable. Another has so twisted their agenda and open communications policy such that the First Amendment Coalition calls the changes “unconstitutional.”
It would seem in the age of the internet; local governments could easily make it so easy to understand on behalf of the people they are elected to represent. As of yet, they have not.
We can only encourage citizens to somehow re-engage. We have published the contact information of many local elected officials with the hope that more of them will hear from you.

With democracy on the line, this is the time for more, not less civic engagement. The question is how?

Sunburst Academy drill team brings home trophies to JFTB

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Sunburst Academy drill team brings home trophies to JFTB

By Cadet Nathan Rojas

After being invited to compete for the first time at John F. Kennedy High School’s JROTC Drill and Ceremonies competition, Oct. 21, in La Palma, Sunburst Youth Academy drill team took home two trophies.

Sunburst Youth Academy Cadet Uolalio Garcia, center, talks with teammates between performances, Oct. 21, 2023, during a JROTC Drill and Ceremonies competition at John F. Kennedy High School, in La Palma, Calif. Garcia later won first place in the competition’s fast-paced individual drill challenge against more than 100 teens from 15 other Southern California high school cadet programs. (Sunburst Youth Academy photo by Cadet John Huerta)

Academy cadets won the first-place trophy in the unarmed regulation division and first place in the tap out competition. It was the first time the academy’s Class 32 drill team performed in public. They were the underdogs against the 15 other more experienced high schools competing in dress uniforms.

“It seemed like all these other cadets… with all these medals, our competition was gonna’ be hard to go up against all these other schools that are had more experience than us,” said Cadet Jonathan Jacinto, drill team squad leader.

After three weeks of training in the early morning and late afternoon on the academy campus at Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, the drill team members were prepared to get on the parade deck and compete.

“You know all the time we spent, it paid off. We were able to bring something back home and forever show it off to future cadets,” said Cadet Izabela Stark, who serves as the unarmed drill team commander.

After every routine was finished all high schools reported to the gymnasium. Cadet Uolalio Garcia and hundreds of other participants entered a military style game of tap out. He beat more than a hundred others in the quick-paced drill and ceremonies challenge.

Sunburst drill team’s next performance will be during the academy’s upcoming family day.

Editor’s Note
Nathan Rojas is a student journalist and drill team member at Sunburst Youth Academy.
Sunburst is a high school credit recovery program and leadership academy on Joint Forces Training Base, Los Alamitos, which is run in partnership between the California National Guard’s Task Force Torch youth and community programs directorate and the Orange County Department of Education.

Rossmoor Woman’s Club awards $1000 scholarships

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Rossmoor Woman’s Club awards $1000 scholarships

The Rossmoor Woman’s Club presented scholarships of $1,000 each to Los Alamitos High School Students of the Month Aidan Grimshaw and Lindsay Billings at the club’s October meeting.

Aidan, the August Student of the Month, is a straight A student with a current grade point average of 4.33. He is a member of the Interact Club and served as Junior Co-President last year and is Senior President this year. As a member, he has assisted with the annual Holiday Giving Drive, in which the club raises money and provides gifts for less fortunate families in the community, and the Interact Talent Show, which raises money for the international charity Water for South Sudan.

Aidan has also been a member of the men’s soccer team at Los Al for all four years of high school. He has been playing club soccer for nearly seven years. In college he plans to major in either chemistry or physics.

Lindsay Billings is the Rossmoor Woman’s Club’s Student of the Month for September. She is involved at school with the Link Crew, participated in the Every 15 Minutes drunk driving awareness program and has held leadership positions in environment-related clubs. She is a member of the California Scholarship Federation and the ASL Honor Society.

Outside of school, she has volunteered for a variety of charities, including making scarves for deployed troops through Operation Gratitude and volunteering at the Los Alamitos-Rossmoor library. To further her interest in the environment, she has volunteered by testing local water quality, helped cultivate plants to attract monarch butterflies and attended UC San Diego’s Global Environmental Leadership & Sustainability summer college program on the big island of Hawaii. She plans to attend college on the West Coast and pursue a degree in Environmental Science.

The Rossmoor Woman’s Club is a philanthropic and social organization affiliated with the international General Federation of Women’s Clubs. It raises money to support local charities and for scholarships like these through fundraisers such as the annual Rossmoor Holiday Home Tour, scheduled this year on Sunday Dec. 3. For details, see www.rossmoorswomansclub.com.

Cinderella, carriage wins costume grand prize at Los Al Race Course contest

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Cinderella, carriage wins costume grand prize at Los Al Race Course contest

Sara Flores became one of the youngest grand prize winners ever of the Los Alamitos Race Course annual Halloween Costume Contest after the 6-month-old cutie from Pasadena was selected as the big winner of the event on Saturday, October 21.

Courtesy p hoto

Accompanied by her parents, Gabriela and Fernando Flores, Sara was dressed up as Cinderella and her baby stroller was decorated as the horse-drawn carriage taking her to the ball ready to charm the prince. For horses, Gabriela found a pair of mylar balloons with the image of beautiful white horses. Even Gabriela joined the fun, as she dressed up as Cinderella’s fairy godmother. The entire costume and props stole the hearts of the judges, as baby Sara won the $700 grand prize. To celebrate, the toddler started eating her golden slipper to the delight of the large crowd in attendance.

“I came across the idea on TikTok and thought that it was very creative and thought that I could do it myself as well,” Gabriela said. “Sara is the main star of this costume, and she enjoyed nibbling on her slippers.”

Held in conjunction with the live racing program at Los Alamitos Race Course for the past 25 years, the Costume Contest is one of the biggest in terms of attendance in North Orange County.

The Los Alamitos Halloween Costume Contest featured seven different aged divisions. Each divisional winner advanced to the grand finale. In addition to Sara Flores winning the 2 and under division, other winners included Ariana Martinez as a Box of Crayons in the 3-4 year old division; Noah Salazar as the Operation Game in the 5-6 year old division; Liliana Estrada as Rapunzel in the 7-8 division; Sophie Becerra as Beetlejuice in the 9-11 division; Roshelly Rocha of Pico Rivera as a Dia De Los Muertos character in the 12-15 division; and Vicente and Wendy Uribe of Pico Rivera as the Headless Horseman and his helper in the 16 & up division. The Youth Center of Cypress was the local organization that benefited from proceeds raised at this event.

Photos and videos of the event can be seen on the track’s social media pages on Twitter and Instagram @losalracing. For more information on the event call 714-820-2690.

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