Supervisor and Fellow Trail Blazers Take to the Trails
Launching Operation Bright Spot
This program will strategically clean business corridors and deliver long overdue services to the 7th Council District. - SEE PAGE 2
FRIDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2019
Accompanied by members of Mounted Assistance Units from Bonelli, Whittier Narrows, Walnut Creek, and LA County Sheriff, the pack was led by Supervisor Barger- SEE PAGE 7
TELLING THE TRUTH FOR OVER 15 YEARS!
VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 19
Hit-and-Run Crash in Lake View Terrace Critically Injures Two Riders, Kills Horses
Lydia Fitzgerald, Ozzie the OIC mascot and Naomi Hirahara by Arlene Massimino. Firefighters and paramedics from Station 24 The van after it hit the riders and crashed into helping one of the victims. a wall. By Brian Chase
A
hit and run accident last week (October 25) at about 10 PM in Lake View Terrace left two horses dead and their riders critically injured on the night of Oct. 25. The crash occurred near the intersection of Foothill Boulevard and Wheatland Avenue. The man and woman who were riding were identified by friends as “Alejandra Nieves and Leopoldo Solorio. They were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. A suspect was arrested the next day after fleeing the scene of the crash. 32 year-old Rolando Garcia, is accused of crashing his van into a husband and wife riding on horseback. The van then crashed into a wall.
Garcia fled the scene on foot but was found hiding in the wash the next day. He was booked on felony hit and run charges and held on $50,000 bail. Friends of the couple have established a GoFundMe account to collect money for their treatment. A friend of the couple told news media that they had suffered numerous broken bones including fractured vertebrae. It was also stated that the recovery process is expected to be lengthy for both. Neighborhood council president Kevin Davis said horseback riding at night is a safety issue that local leaders are trying to fix in this San Fernando Valley community. Davis said they are trying to increase equestrian safety, but that it’s not been
enough to prevent tragic accidents such as this one. Leaving the scene of an injury accident is a felony crime under California law. Motorists are required to stop and remain at the scene of the crash, exchange pertinent information with other parties and most importantly, render aid to the injured victims. Long Road to Recovery Paramedics who arrived at the scene found the couple in critical condition. Both were taken to a hospital. The horses died at the scene. The driver of the van, 32-year-old Rolando Garcia, fled the scene on foot, but was arrested the following morning. Justice for Victims We are relieved to note that the suspected hit and run driver was apprehended in this particular case.■
Local Authors speak at LCFOG Annual event By Arlene Massimino
L
a Canada Flintridge Orthopaedic Guild (LCFOG) held its annual Book and Author Luncheon October 22, 2019 at the La Canada Flintridge Country Club 5500 Godbey Drive, La Canada. Presiding over the event was Marianne Jennings, President of the Guild. Members of the Guild began preparations for this event in January, under the guidance of co-chairs Caryl Pettit and Arlene Massimino. Committee members then put on the finishing touches. Almost 175 guests attended this annual event and looked forward to the Silent Auction, for which Marie Baker and her committee had been successful in obtaining some wonderful gifts. Mar-
ilyn Center assured the Bonus Board, a very popular part of the event, had plenty of envelopes full of fun items. More than anything, former guests said they enjoyed hearing the authors present their recent novels and how they came to write them. Naomi Hirahara, a Pasadena resident, and a familiar name to many guests is an Edgar winning author of the Mas Arai mystery series, including Summer of the Big Bachi, Strawberry Yellow, Sayonara Slam and Hiroshima Boy. She is also the author of the Ellie Rush mysteries (Penguin) and the co-author of “Life After Manzanar” (Heyday). Please see Local Authors at LCFOG Annual Event on Page 7
Check out The Foothills Paper interactive website: thefoothillspaper.com
2
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2019 • THE FOOTHILLS PAPER
Prepare For an Emergency
E
COMMUNITY NEWS
by Ed Castellanos
mergency situations such as fire, extreme weather and power out-ages can happen without warning. By taking the time to prepare for a possible disaster now, you and your family will be equipped to handle a crisis if one ever occurs.
Fire Escape Route and Meeting Spot
It can take a mere five minutes for a fire to engulf your entire home. This is one reason having an escape plan is so important. Include at least two exit routes in your plan in case one is blocked, and designate a safe location for every-one in your household to meet. Identifying a secondary location outside your neighborhood is good to have in the event it’s not safe to return or you’re asked to evacuate.
List of Emergency Contacts
Make laminated cards with a list of important phone numbers for each family member. This
thefoothillspaper.com • Volume 15 • Number 19
might include contact in-formation for the local authorities and emergency services as well as your nearest relatives.
Click on photo to see video
Home Safety Items
Be prepared in case an emergency does occur by having these home safety items: • Fire Extinguisher — Keep one on each floor • First-Aid Kit —Store it in a central location, such as the kitchen, and make sure everyone knows where it is. • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors — Install detectors in each room and test them once a month. Use long-life lithium batteries to cut back on replacements. • Food and Water —Put together a three-day supply of nonperishable foods and at least three gallons of water for each member of your house-hold. There’s often very little time to react in a crisis. But with a little planning and prep work, you can be wellequipped and ready to respond accordingly.■
Launching Operation Bright Spot
T
his week, I launched Operation Bright SPOT (Strategic Partnership Outfoxing Trash) in partnership with NEGBNortheast Graffiti Busters, Los Angeles Sanitation & Environment, and the City of Los Angeles Bureau of Street Services. This program will strategically clean business corridors and deliver long overdue services to the 7th Council District.
Through a targeted cleanup plan, Operation Bright Spot team members will conduct street sweeping, red curb painting, graffiti removal, weed abatement, bulky item pick up, gum removal, and power washing of sidewalks. Operation Bright Spot will coordinate and supplement existing City services to ensure that our streets are clean from top to bottom. I secured $200,000 to fund Operation
Bright Spot and the program will extend through the end of 2020. The neighborhoods receiving services from Operation Bright Spot include: Sylmar, Mission Hills, Pacoima, Lake View Terrace, Sunland-Tujunga, North Hills, Shadow Hills, and La Tuna Canyon. Residents interested in learning more about the program may contact my office at 818-485-0600.■
2 – FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019 • THE FOOTHILLS PAPER
www.thefoothillspaper.com • VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 10
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– thefoothillspaper.com • Volume 15 • Number 19 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2019 • THE FOOTHILLS PAPER 3 does a lot of the things but by members of the The only unsullied elite Sunland-Tujunga, that get done here event left in Sunthe scenes. Shadow and Hills“Contractors. Rotary is the It’s that time of year, again.land-Tujunga reinforce the need to honor ” behind They just troops I’ve in harms had the honor of workClub. Someone once Rotary Club’s Annual Twice a year I go through all who wear and have worn didn’t wear uniforms of any way. And for ing withInthewhat S-T now? Ro- How said thatparticular our 4th ofgovernment. 4th of July Parade. I uniform. this bitter-sweet reality that our nation’ s military tary Club even though July Parade was like find it really amazI’m outliving those around I was talking to some recent fact, most of the time, when about the Syrian I was a member of a mating of the Doo ing how many people me, those that actually meant veterans of the middle-east not in the jungles or oil? Never in the Crescenta-Canada Dah Parade with May- thedeserts, from all walks of life something to me and those conflict. they wore civilian clothes. club. But it history doesn’t of our berry! And you know, come out to mingle who actually did something became apparent toI think me whoever They didsaid things thatmatter. a military Whatcountry, matters have withIttheir neighbors thatthey our friends right.couldn’t This is do, is this one thehave justthat b e c au s e some in the for our country. I watch that day whatofthey gonewasforce and we hadand so little respect neighbors get a chance the one time of year year. pretty old people have veterans people running around, through is worlds away from are still doing it, in Iraq, world. But that’s a column for wein don’t LAFD and the volunteer fire to let their hair down and the one place that Sure, we’ve had the it. I’m looking for running it. And maybe having BBQs, watching the the wars I remember. People Afghanistan, Saudi and one another day. water-truck opens everybody gets togeth- and march or drive Watermelon Festival, a Rascal Brigade of we valves don’t have games on TV, and those tend to forget that we’ve hundred other countries. Here, I look around me at it’s becausetheir and spray or ride down Foothill er to have fun-funthe Easter Sunrise senior citizens doing people who respect those who really take a moment to been in the middle-east for And until this decade, no one all the homeless veterans we the kids (and adults Boulevard with thoufun! This year I think Service, the Petting wheelies and burning ordinary citizens, the men reflect on what Veterans Day 45-plus years. The countries really knew who they were, have living in our parks. who are brave enough) sands of people watch- doughnuts going down will be one of the best Zoo and even the get wet. And and womentowho made theyes, is all about. arejam stillinthe same, the we’ve cities had or in what they wereing. doing as I look aroundtheme at But all what a long WOW Sunroad. you can officially say This is the Rotary sacrifices, those who served time. The motto this land Park. But the the heck We have Memorial Day for and towns names are still the they put their lives on the line the petty politics that — areit’s time “It’s The Water!” Club’s 39th Annual year is “Out of This 4th of JulyKabul, ParadeMazar-e-Sharif, is everyone get to their country called. those who have passed on. same, alongside our military. And nothing moreforthan self- to when 4th of July Parade. World” And boy, do OUR EVENT. It’s not know each other for one day, November But Veterans Day should Kunduz, and Bahgram, for once, the news media isn’t aggrandizements. I look Soand And that means that we seem like that. sponsored by church havecan fun.only Towards the is their day, let’s not 11, this always be a time to remember but time has made them there, in the way, creating around me and we’re going to have Our Rotary Club groups or social clubs, end of the parade, the those who came back, and different. a political aversion to our shake my head in awe and forget them like we do all the a time to honor those who The only difference is that actually helping the countries sorrow. This is Sunland- rest of the year. served our country and to years ago, we were helping out. Some people want to Tujunga.It used to be a Maybe this year, our local could do throw out the Russians. know why we’re still there community. It used to be restaurants (Of course, technically, we and we’re not winning. They cohesive. Some of the old- something really nice for weren’t there.) Here in the don’t understand geopolitics. timers still talk about when them and their families? THE FOOTHILLS PAPER U.S., people just didn’t know But we are still out there in the “bikers” were here and Maybe we could organize is published biTHE FOOTHILLS PAPER is RyansoHoward Helbing or bi-weekly. didn’t Allcare many countries, doing of crime was almost nothing. our childrens classrooms published contentbecause it weekly. All content is is copyrighted and may not be Sunland-Tujunga copyrighted and may not didn’t affect them directly. things that nobody Awarded talks Funny thing though, those to send letters and cards to reproduced without written consent be reproduced without of theBut publisher. All submissions tostill served Americans about, taking care of business, bikers were mostly veterans those who are still overseas? Degree from UA this newspaper become property written consent of the No one can make anyone do and died in that service all in the best interests of our from the Vietnam War. of THE FOOTHILLS PAPER and publisher. All submissions academic programs, exRyan Howard Helbing may not be republished in whole to America. We alsoof had nation, and forces andAnd for the most part, they something, but maybe we pert faculty numerous Sunland-Tujunga, CAour armed to this newspaper or in part. The opinions expressed militarywriters do organizations doreceived it withhispride and honor. for kept our community together. should ask them to do so? opportunities service and (91040), has become property of THE by contributing not necessarily express the views of growth, The University of community that we And while you’re thinking degree from The is University FOOTHILLS PAPER and comprised of the best military That until recently. Now This new the publisher nor staff of this Alabama is a place where of buy. Alabama: Bachelor of may not be republished minds that money could we have a POTUS that has his have here now is one without about it - don’t drink The newspaper. TFP is available free of legends are made. UA offers Science in Commerce & in whole or in part. The charge. No person may, without They were called “Techreps” own agenda and is putting out integrity or honor. Maybe it’s Water! ■ its students a premier eduBusiness Administration.
COMMUNITY NEWS
opinions expressed by contributing writers do not necessarily express the views of the publisher nor staff of this newspaper. TFP is available free of charge. No person may, without prior written permission from TFP, take more than one copy of each edition (stated value: $1). Only authorized TFP distributors may distribute THE FOOTHILLS PAPER. THE FOOTHILLS PAPER is a non-profit newspaper produced by the OSSSpectrum group. EXECUTIVE EDITOR/ PUBLISHER Dr. David DeMullé editor@thefoothillspaper.com
WITH THANKS TO all our volunteers that make The Paper happen! THE FOOTHILLS PAPER TheFoothillsPaper.COM P.O. Box 444 Tujunga CA 91043 (818) 951 0943
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EXECUTIVE EDITOR/PUBLISHER Dr. David DeMullé editor@thefoothillspaper.com WITH THANKS TO all our volunteers that make The Paper happen!
UA awarded some 5,716 degrees during spring commencement May 3-5. With a beautiful campus, dozens of challenging
cational, cultural and social experience with more than 200 undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.
Jennifer Trosper, a JPL engineer, is this year’s Rotary Club Grand Marshall!
Kids toured the witches den at the Haunted House at the Church of Scientology in THE FOOTHILLS PAPER TheFoothillsPaper.COM Montrose. P.O. Box 444 Tujunga CA 91043 818-951-0943
Family Fun at Haunted House at the Church of Scientology in Montrose Her work is “out of this world”
C
Associated Press
Sierra Perez May Have Set
hildren and parents were de- their giant spider traps, and the witch’s L.A. Press Club New Worldroom Record lighted by the annual kid-friendwith her potions and skeletal pets. ly Haunted House on Halloween Continued from Page 1 Professional photos were taken of each Press Photographers night hosted by the Church of Scientol- family and given to the parents along with a Association Pending the approval of the When the boat returned of Greater ogy Mission of the Foothills in downcandy and a copy International Game Fish of the bookto the dock, the halibutgift wasbag with Los Angeles town Montrose. let, The Way to Happiness, a non-religious Association (IGFA), Perez hung on the scale where International may have guide set a new was said to weigh For the Combat past six years,itthe Church of 54.5 common-sense towomhappier living. Camera en’s L. all-tackle world record pounds. The previous Association Scientology Mission of the Foothills has womThe author, Ron Hubbard, wrote in the for California halibut. en’s record was 42 pounds. transformed itself into a Haunted House precept from the booklet “Love and Help for Halloween night. Grim reapers and Children,” “Today’s children will become witches and the like greeted the line of tomorrow’s civilization.... The way to haptrick-or-treaters outside that stretched piness has on its route the loving and helppast the end of the building, passing ing of children from babyhood to the brink out candy and glowstick bracelets as of adult life.” “Montrose has sponsored the they waited to enter. Inside included a Halloween Spooktacular for years as a safe slightly-spooky graveyard with roam- activity for children and, being family-oriing ghost, a toxic waste scene featuring ented ourselves, we’ve enjoyed contributailing hazmat actors, skeletons and cute ing the Haunted House since 2013,” said giant rats, the haunted mansion room Stacy Kitchens, the Mission Executive Dipresided over by Gomez and Morticia rector, whose husband and two boys also Addams along with many spiders and get involved in the project. ■
Rep. Schiff Applauds Passage of Resolution to Recognize the Armenian Genocide
W
ASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), Vice Chair of the Armenian-American Caucus, offered a statement in response to the passage of H.Res. 296, a resolution to recognize and commemorate the Armenian Genocide: “Today, the House decisively voted to commemorate the Armenian Genocide. In so doing, the House declared that it will no longer be party to the cause of genocide denial. This is a vote I have fought for 19 years to make possible, and one that tens of thousands of my Armenian American constituents have worked, struggled, and prayed for decades to see. “I am grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, as well as the Armenian American activists and community leaders who have fought for recognition for so long. While we can never undo the atrocities of the Armenian Genocide, this vote is a commitment that we will never forget and we will never again be intimidated into silence.” H.Res. 296, introduced by Schiff and Rep. Bilirakis (R-FL), passed with strong bipartisan consensus by a vote of 405-11.■
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, • 2019 •FOOTHILLS THE FOOTHILLS PAPER www.thefoothillspaper.com thefoothillspaper.com •VOLUME Volume 15 Number 19 22 4–– FRIDAY, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 2018 THE PAPER 14••• NUMBER 44–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– OCTOBER 19,16, 2018 • THE FOOTHILLS PAPER www.thefoothillspaper.com ••VOLUME 14 NUMBER 18 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– A i r S hAir o w Show AMERICAN HEROES AMERICAN HEROES
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thefoothillspaper.com Volume 15 • Number 19 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2019 • THE•FOOTHILLS FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2018• • THE FOOTHILLS PAPER www.thefoothillspaper.com VOLUME 14 • PAPER NUMBER 18 –5 5 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2019 •
10 – 3 • NUMBER––––––––– LUME 15 m • VO –––––––––– aper.co thillsp–– –––––––––– oo –– –– hef –– w.t ww • VOLUME –––––––– FRIDAY, JUNE 28, 2019 • THE FOOTHILLS PAPER www.thefoothillspaper.com 15 • NUMBER 10 – 3 –––––––––– R –––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– HILLS PAPE –––––––––– FOOT THE –– 19 • –– –––––––––– 20 –– , 28 –– NE –– JU AY, –––––––––– FRID–– –––– –––– en ty to start wh Social Securi she will 64, e any Social she retires at age. Any tim ed oll ed im enr e, cla ally is abl dit efit d cre be automatic Security ben be considere Parts A and ’s check with question is in Medicare earlier than one but you should at 66. Another her turning nt to at 66 and my B just prior to r HR departme your you when I retire , but if she ing rs of age age 64 at 1/2 age.ma e. Assum Social Security65toyeastart when Any any Social be considered creditable, ke surtime at 66. 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Signed: Plan- ture Amin spousalCOBRA) in Medicare . her spe you hout a late yours, not 50% D plan) during l reach 42% of erage drug plan) wit You can in Part A, and wil I a D oll : oll so sty enr enr iod from her employer Ru your employer ning Our Retirement not Dear alty. by AMAC Certified Social enrollment per late e alth Savings Your wife can enrollment pen because l retirement age 2020 have a He future simply my fulcoverage B (and Part D) atarethat time and wishes avoid any to At Account (HSA) you andh Dear Planning: Signof in Medic enroll in Part temberends. l yer Security Advisor Russell Sep cia plo in So es. em g A) r alti bot (FR you lectin must nt pen l be she is col a little before wife wil id uld your employer to it the delay enrolling inmePart B eligible time, you’ll ing up for Medicare when at agethat 66. My ’s not s so as to avo Gloor, Association of Mang Finally, you sho will start Security; she coverage end is 65 stop contributi e in Medic that timeaand 65. until she 64 atenter dicare (to avoid the premium), she “special be enrolled you turn 65 is optional if Me se in health car of my ore you turn lap for 1/2 bef at any nth s SS co ture American Citizens mo nth her ion e drawing (hospitalizat can enroll 3 mo start l be you should tak full retirement (she can coverage. req doerasoge until her Aage employer to age it enrollment you have creditable embecause it wil period”Whether ims her verbenefit ) because it is earlier for cov ns 65). are Part B (co If your wife cla efit at even if she dic s, Me her Sec l n cia tha er tur more lect So s- can for nth she coverage ends. Then when is reduced. years r the mo during which you enroll ployer coverage. If you to col l Security2ben doctors and oth A. My que SociaTaken Dear Rusty: I will reach age from age 65 age reached her FR you claim you r wife retires benefits after need B (and t services) at 64 whenyour If you e ageFRA, outpatien her employer before her wife’s Part enroll in Part A, and you erag I know I will Part is eligiblcoverage n bener is, Medicare tionin my full retirement age care Part A cov rk before she s upon wheth age 66, her ow are Part wo at end dic SS dep Me use y 65 her for ma up ndrug who is d, and , she should erage one uce to sig are cov any red dic ends, she enroll in e spousal benefit will be about do D plan) without a late have a Health Savings be for Me car l but lth for wil efit age 65 (FRA) in September of 2020 il your hea be lS unt o cia als ge is l So era e yer wil A this year at eiv cov plo to rec BRA COMedicare s time? h your em 42% of yours, spousal ben B (and Part througcan notefit50%. enrollment You Account (HSA) you and and her 65Part d Part B at thi penalty. I nee 50% of yours at age 66. My wife will be “creditable” benefits. she reaches age ge begins. reduced from and my wife considered a t wife ing Par im era th myselfin are cla Boenroll cov dic is y D plan) during her special Your cannot enroll Part B (and Part D) are your employer must both Me Medic because she 64 at that time and will start same compan alternative to ims her earlier ally, if work for the Generin ough employer usal benefit your wife cla period so as to the spo urance thryour Medicare simply because If enrollment a little B coverage. stop contributing to it the have insbefore and drawing her SS at 1/2 of my retirement n with more nce than her full it’s a group pla ts it will l have insura wil I m. the avoid any future late enrollshe is collecting Social coverageyeaends soh as tothaavoid month before you turn 65. r throug benefit because it will be n 20 participan for one more retire il Ihealth ment penalties. Security; she’s not eligible any care Whether you should take pany untin comlapse more than hers, even if she the
se and Spou Medicare , g in rk o W abou•t Volume THE FOOTHILLS PAPER thefoothillspaper.com 15 • and NumberSpouse 19 Confused Medicare YWorking, Confused about ASK RUST Benefits
ASK RUSTY
Benefits
ASK RUSTY
By AMAC Certified Social Security Advisor Rusell Gloor, Association of Mature American Citizens.
How Does My Husband’s Federal Pension Affect Benefits?
Governor Approves Hertzberg Bill to Improve Pretrial Practices
S
enate Majority Leader Bob Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys) today announced that SB 36, his bill to regulate the use of pretrial risk assessment tools, was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. In recent years, California has led the nation in adopting new tools and processes aimed at making the pretrial justice system fairer for the accused in the period between when they are charged with a crime and when they are brought to trial. In 2017, the Pretrial Detention Reform Workgroup Report commissioned by Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye reported that as many as 49 counties in California use one of eight different risk assessment instruments in their pretrial processes. This year’s state budget also established a pilot program for updated pretrial practices in select counties. However, under current law there are no minimum standards governing the effective use of risk assessment tools, and no safeguards in place to ensure that they are being used in a way that accurately estimates risk while minimizing bias. SB 36 will establish guidelines regarding the use of risk assessment
tools, including data collection, transparency requirements, and regular validation of the tools. “When it comes to the way we handle the accused before trial, California is simply failing. We can do better, and we must do better,” said Senator Hertzberg. “I thank the Governor for working with us to ensure that risk assessments are being used in a way that accurately estimates risk without disproportionately affecting communities that have already been so impacted by the criminal justice system.” The bill was joint authored by Senator Holly J. Mitchell (D-Los Angeles) and sponsored by a coalition of organizations: “Being able to address racial biases in the pretrial system is key to bringing more transparency and equity to this process that we know is most damaging to communities of color,” said Derick Morgan, Policy Associate with the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights. “This is one step to mitigate the racial disparities within mass incarceration.” “Money bail is unjust and unconstitutional and California’s justice system is failing us by allowing it to continue,” said Jessica Bartholow of the Western Center on Law and Poverty.■
Dear Rusty: My husband sion (WEP), and any spou- are 70 years of age, when your retired at his full retirement sal benefit he may be enti- benefit amount will be 32% age of 66. He qualified for So- tled to will be affected by the more than it would be at age Finally, you should both for Medicare until she is 65 coverage. Medicare Part B (coverreached her FRA. My quesA! enroll cial Security but also qualified But3 months when youbeclaim RIC66. enrolled your in Medicare Part can If yourPension wife claims age for doctors andGovernment other Y AME(she AOffset tion is, I know I will need HDher T IR B Y P AP Security benefit at H A (hospitalization earlier for coverage to start Social outpatient services) at age to signCivil up for Medicare Part Retirement for Service (GPO). Both WEP and GPO benefit at age 70 your hus-coverage) because it is required the month she turns 65). age 64 when you claim your 65 depends upon whether A this year at age 65 but do to collect Social Security wife retires from SS at age 66, her own benyourso, healthcare System he coverage are provisions which affectIf your band’ s spousal benefit won’t I need Part B(CSRS). at this time? Being benefits after age 65. Mediwork before she is eligible efit will be reduced, and her through your employer is Both myself and my wife falls under the Windfall Offset anyone with pension fromfor Medicare, be based on careincreased Part A coverage is free she may use your spousalabenefit will also be considered a “creditable” work for the same company for anyone who is eligible COBRA coverage until reduced from 50% of yours alternative to Medicare Part and have insurance through Provision, and subsequently employment which did notshe reaches amount, but ratherto upon your receive Social Security age 65 and her because she is claiming B coverage. Generally, if them. I will have insurance benefits. begins. the in spousal earlier a group plan with more had Social Securityit’sbenefit participate thebenefit Social Secu-Medicare FRAcoverage benefit amount of $2000, for onehis more year through If your wife claims her than her full retirement than 20 participants it will the company until I retire reduced from around $900 to rity program. which means he still won’t get promotit might mean Or year, as of freedom ach and every 4th ing the ideals and e hom at the acy $450. His full CSRS benefit is GPO is the severe ofocr a spousal benefit due to the celebrate wemore and dem E y to forget abroad. of July, it is eas Ameriyou look ly HAPPY BIRTHDAY No matter howGovernment that this unique ents so $3,400. I have not claimedAMERICA! my these two provisions, because Pension Offset. nation is res at it, this great And by can holiday rep barbecues, er. n oth tha any re unlike n, much mo ma ry the to eve ng en, Social Security benefit, but I it reduces anyfirewospousal (or surFinally, if you should prerks and goi the same tok ld who calls ents our woman and chi ferent. But beach. It repres against o dif hant battle husband it home is als decease mpyour expect it to be around $2000 vivor) benefittriutyrann your husband, the e ggl united in our y and the stru let us remain ves from the differences. to free oursel mo me com at my full retirement age of might be entitled toers.rsby 2/3rds will also affect his surToday, let’s GPO control of oth since of the U.S. by rate the birth In the 243 yea “uncommitment ffirming our t claimed our rea firs we for y 66 in November. At my full of his CSRS aliepension, vivor’s benefit, which is based equalit “life, which to freedom and basic prinnable right” to t of sui the all. These are erty and the pur s have country was100% of what you were Americanbe able retirement age could I collect means that helibhapwill upon les that our cip piness,” not g n, and as lon declare our founded upo se continued to ert to uphold tho nce and to ass as we strivereceiving independe half of his benefit and let mine to get a spousal benefit at your death (not versal from will never uni we of s, ple ple nci nci pri the pri of ng ys. ani wa me ny e forget the tru ality in so ma ng out aki . spe nce an nde me epe grow until age 70? Or upon you when youequ apply (2/3rds on your FRA benefit). So, ght ind It mi ay, America! those who are Happy Birthd blywomon behalf of em e of their Luz Rivas, Ass secuted becaus or per filing, am I forced to take my of his CSRS pension the numbers you proder more– 39thusing genis District an race, religion, ation. sexual orient Or it might mean promotach and every year, as full benefit instead? If I can than he would get as a spou- vided, if your FRA benefit ing the ideals of freedom we celebrate the 4th take of tohis benefit, You, on the other would be about $2000 your andwould democracy at sal homebenefit). and of July,half it is easy forget abroad. that this uniquely Ameriitcanbeholiday halfrepresents of hissofull benefit or hand, will be eligible (at your age 70 benefit will be about No matter how you look it, this great nation much more than barbecues, half of the reduced atbenefit? fullis retirement age, or “FRA,” $2640 (not including COLA unlike any other. And by fireworks and going to the Also, claiming my benof 66) increases). Since 2/3rds of the same token, every man, to file a “Restricted Apbeach. Itupon represents our woman and child who calls triumphant battle against efit, my husband plication for Spousal Benefits your husband’s CSRS penit home isbe also different. But tyrannywould and the struggle let us remain united in our” which will give you half to free ourselves from thehalf, and entitled to claim thus Only, sion is $2268, he’d normally differences. control of others. Today, let’s commemoIn the 243 years since increase what he is currently of his WEP-reduced Social be entitled to the difference rate the birth of the U.S. by we first claimed our “unreceiving on his own benefit? Security benefit (about $225/ $372) as his survivor’s benefit. reaffirming our commitment alienable right” to “life, to freedom and equality for liberty and the pursuit of In addition, upon my death, month). You are eligible to But since that amount is less all. These are the basic prinhappiness,” Americans have ciples our country continued to declare our would my husband qualifythatfor usewasthe restricted application than his own WEP-reduced founded upon, and as long independence and to assert my full Social Securityas we benefit because SS benefit, he won’t get a surstrive to uphold those you were born before the principle of universal principles, we will never equality in so many ways. or is he subject to offset by the January 2, 1954 (those born vivor’s benefit. As you may be forget the true meaning of It might mean speaking out on behalf of those who are or independence. Windfall Offset Govern- after January 1, 1954 cannot aware, the Federal CSRS plan Happy Birthday, America! persecuted because of their ment Pension Offset? Signed: use this option). By doing so, has been replaced by the FedLuz Rivas, Assemblywomrace, religion, gender or an – 39th District sexual orientation. Confused About SS. you can collect a spousal ben- eral Employee Retirement Dear Confused: Because efit from your husband while System (FERS) which parof your husband’s CSRS pen- allowing your own SS retire- ticipates in Social Security, sion, his own Social Securi- ment benefit to grow by 8% per so WEP and GPO do not apty benefit is reduced by the year of delay (2/3rds of 1% per ply to those who retire under Windfall Elimination Provi- month of delay) up until you FERS.■
E
Supervisor Barger and Fellow Trail Blazers Take to the Trails in an Iconic Equestrian Tradition
O
ver 60 horse riders saddled up alongside Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger and the Department of Parks and Recreation (LA County Parks) for the rich equestrian tradition of “Barger’s Trail Blazers” – an annual horseback ride through the lush landscape of Los Angeles County’s many miles of multi-use trails. Accompanied by members of Mounted Assistance Units from Bonelli, Whittier Narrows, Walnut Creek, and LA County Sheriff, the pack was led by Supervisor Barger along a scenic creekside trail for a three-and-ahalf-hour amble through the foothills of La Cañada Flintridge. The festive event culminated with a barbecue featuring live country-western music. “I want this event to encourage everyone to explore our extensive multi-use trails in Los Angeles County, whether on horse-
back, mountain bike, or foot. Today, we experience the lush native landscape in La Cañada Flintridge, but beauty can be found throughout the county, and anyone can be a trailblazer on a path,” said Fifth District County Supervisor Kathryn Barger.■
thefoothillspaper.com • Volume • Number 19 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2019 • THE• FOOTHILLS PAPER 18 – 7 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2018 • THE15FOOTHILLS PAPER www.thefoothillspaper.com VOLUME 14 • NUMBER 7 70-6.& t /6.#&3 t XXX UIFGPPUIJMMTQBQFS DPN 5)& '005)*--4 1"1&3 t '3*%": "13*- ‰ 70-6.& t /6.#&3 t XXX UIFGPPUIJMMTQBQFS DPN 5)& '005)*--4 1"1&3 t '3*%": "13*- ‰ –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– very worthywith cause�. Her bookSausage co-writing some cookbooks, Lentil Stew is a tale of intrigue showing a she finds herself in Paso Ro-
Local Authors speak at LCFOG Annual Event continued from page 1
fierce bond between brothers bles to research a cookbook and a determination to find focusing on the ingredients their way back to each other. and great wines of the region. Her Mas Arai books have Fitzpatrick’s work has appeared She was so impressed with the earned such honors as Pub- in the “O’Henry Prize Storiesâ€?, people, the view and so much lishers Weekly’s Best Book of One Storyâ€?, “Glimmer Trainâ€? more, she settled in Paso Rothe Year and one of the Chi- and more. She was a Wallace bles. cago Tribune’s Ten Best Mys- Stegner Fellow at Stanford, a Guests can enjoy unique teries and Thrillers. She pre- fiction fellow at University of lodging, complete with statesented her most recent book Wisconsin- Madison and a re- of-the-art kitchen studios “Iced in Paradiseâ€? just released cipient of the Elizabeth George and a cooking experience in September 2019. Foundation Grant. Fitzpatrick at “Refugioâ€? where cooking Naomi has also written graduated Princeton Universi- classes abound. Brigit and books about gardening and ty and later received her Mas- her husband have “created Japanese-American history ter of Fine Arts from Universi- a great space where people and culture. She has contrib- ty of Michigan. She lives in Los can cook, learn, sip a great uted to several anthologies, Angeles with her husband and wine and exchange stories.â€? including Los Angeles Noir two daughters. Her novel has Asked about her future, she and Santa Cruz Noir. She is been described as a “perfectly says she “couldn’t imagine a a proud Stanford University paced mystery novelâ€? and her better place to cook or eat, Alumna where she received presentation was described as drink and be married.â€? her Bachelor of will International delightful, funny and charm-and This guide, The march foster understanding, collaboration, unitytravel, while culinary highlighting Relations. She studied Ad- participation ing by many guests. cookbook, “Eating Up the the importance of civic and compassion for those in need. vanced Japanese Language Guests were encouraged to West Coastâ€?, published by Angeles, — StudiesLos in Tokyo andCAvolun“browseâ€? Sunset FOR MORE INFORMATION about the Interfaith Thousands will gather on teered for three months as a the books Magazine, Network (ISN) and/or the march 28,West 2018 b e f Solidarity workSunday, camperOctober in Ghana, can enjoy unique was a o r e Guests fromTo2:00 – 5:00 e-mail Cantor Mikbe Stein at hazzanstein@ Africa. list p.m. all her accom- making a lodging, complete hot seller p.m. for the San Fernando templealiyah.org, Marsha Novak at marlynov@gmail. plishments would take anoth- purchase. by C Chef hef second anDy annu1½com, cupsand/or lentils (black tablespoon BetBet-and sold Valley’s by rranDy cups lentils (black 11 tablespoon https://www.facebook.com/ISN. withvisit: state-of-the-art er sheet of paper. Suffice it to He1½ lpi n g out very lentils are good but but ter Than Than Bouillon al Interfaith Solidarity lentils are good ter Bouillon SFV/, https://twitter.com/ISN_SFV, and https://www. say that in 1977, Hirahara be- out at the kitchen studios and a March. The mile-long Lentils are low in in calcal- any any lentils will will do) do) (vegetable base) base)q u i c k are low lentils (vegetable instagram.com/interfaithsolidarity/ gan march, toLentils edit, originally publish and write b r o w s ly. It planned ories, high high in in fiber, fiber, high 11 package packagecooking Light- experience 4 cups cups vegetable vegetable broth at ories, high Light4 broth books. Big Bachi was her first ing table was First to at St. in begin protein andBernardine have zezelife Smart Smart SausagSausagin protein and have life mystery novel in March 2004. wasbe provided Eli- “Refugioâ€? C across ome, where cooking throughout sands of folks from of in Woodro Siena trans Church fats. This This baes Italian Italian Style Style (cut ininInstructions: trans fats. baes (cut Instructions: She ro has led a number of writnor Bunn F i r s t the march.classes Guests include: our region for the Interfaith land Hills,recipe will instead abound. sic lentil is simple to ½-inch pieces) Plug in your slow cooksic lentil recipe is simple to ½-inch pieces) Plug in your slow ing workshops and has taught andfaith-based Judi on leaders from Solidarity March. Served Wecookneed start at Temple Aliyah and easy easy to prepare. prepare. Just 2 cups cups sweetL.A. City er and set the the heat heat to high. and to sweet er set to high. Angeles, to and do everything we can to bilingual writing classes Blvd., atJust a Mc2Los Clure. this one. (6025 Valley Circle put all all theHills, ingredients in-Three corn kernels ofBob Rinse the lentils lentils and put the ingredients corn kernels Rinse the and Councilmember Blufoster empathy, unity and Woodland CA ininJapanese Retirement Home members LCFOG All proceeds from the sale of to a slow cooker and the 3 stalks celery (thincull out small stones to a slow cooker and the 3 stalks celery (thincull out small stones encourage people to join menfield, California State 91367), proceed to WoodLos Angeles. She has served were available and ready books, the silent auction and chowHills down hours lat- to ly ly sliced)the booksJesse and debris. Add Add the–Ortholenthe political process we Assemblymember land Presbyterian chow down 44 for hours latsliced) and debris. the lenas chapter president the So. package when other activities benefit er. The Thechapter vegetarian sau- chosen carrots (cutthousands in-Helping tils and all everyone other inneedand to get off of paedic Church(5751 Platt Aveer. vegetarian sau33Gabriel, carrots (cut intils all other California of Mystery by and guests. Institute for inChildren sage adds depth and texto one-inch pieces) gredients to the crockthe sidelines.â€? local residents. nue, Woodland Hills, CA sageofadds depth and tex- with to one-inch pieces) gredients tothe thelargest crock-proWriters America in 2010. book sales were Gin- (OIC), one of The march is hosted “Now more than ever, 91367), and end at Ezzi ture for a hearty stew. 1 medium onpot. Cook for 4 hours. ture for a heartywoman stew. ney 1 Pruitt, medium on-Delaney and viders pot. Cook for 4 hours. This charming Easy of pediatric orthopaein conjunction with local regardless of religion, race Masjid Mosque (5701 It’s especially good on ion (chopped) This makes a meal all It’s especially good on ion (chopped) This makes a meal with a great sense of humor Marie Gilhooly. dic care in the Western all Unitcongregations from many or creed, we need to come Platt Avenue, Woodland a cold winter night. 15-ounce can diced toby itself but is even better cold and winter night. 15-ounce toitself but is even was aborn raised in AlThe Guild can haddiced a limited edbyStates. There were better nearly faithmore traditions. It is extogether,(including share our stories Hills, CA 91367) where matoes liquid) and nutritious when tadena and now resides in number matoes liquid) and more nutritious when of (including a specialty cook 70,000 patient visits this past and work towards a betpected to draw more than dinner will be served. Ingredients: 2 cloves cloves garlic (minced) accompanied bybeen rice.rated neighboring Pasadena. She book by Brigit Binns, who year to OIC. It has Ingredients: 2 garlic (minced) accompanied by rice. 2,000 participants from ter future for our city and The L.A. City Clerk and was League delighted when Voters Book wascountry,â€? unable tosaid attend the lun- among the top throughout theprograms San at Fer- by Los Angeles of Women For additional recipes, see Chef Randy’s website and willAuthor Co-Chairs, cheon sent her best wishes NewsValley and World Citybut Councilmember Bob US nando and theReport. City do voter registration Wendy Nicoll and Arlene for a successful event. Brigit LCFOG is proud to support Blumenfield. “I am proud of Los Angeles. Everyone at the start and end of the Massimino approached having OIC by volunteering once againnative, join thouis invited to attend. their event. Shuttle service her will is atoCalifornia to speak at the LCFOG lun- been born in Santa Monica services and donating funds cheon which raises funds to and spending her early years to help children to Grow Well donate to Orthopaedic Insti- in Brentwood. During her and Play Well. tute for Children (OIC). high school years, she did a The luncheon was by invitaWhen Book and Author 350 mile hike in Grand Can- tion only and space was limitco-chairs, Wendy Nicoll and yon with a tarp, sleeping bag, ed. The room was filled with Arlene Massimino heard of a trail mix and creek water. people who enjoy LCFOG’s “book worth readingâ€? from Writing her mother frequent- annual Book and Author Lunfriends, they decided to con- ly about her trip and most- cheon and are interested in tact the author, Lydia Fitzpat- ly about foods, she realized helping OIC meet it’ s goal of rick. She was very receptive food meant something more no child being turned away and graciously agreed to pres- than just sustenance. Fast for- from care and treatment of orent her debut novel “Lights All ward several years of devel- thopaedic conditions for over Night Longâ€? for as she put it “a oping recipes, and ghost and one hundred years.â–
Thousands to Participate In San Fernando Valley Interfaith Solidarity March to Foster Understanding, Collaboration and Unity
valley-vegetarian.com
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2019 • THE FOOTHILLS PAPER
thefoothillspaper.com • Volume 15 • Number 19
“The many changes of Arnies Coffee –N- Cruise! ” It just keeps getting better!
The Stolen Luxuries of Grocery Outlet, Bargain Market Click on photo to see video
By Rachel Krantz
I
t doesn’t matter much if you don’t find what you’re looking for at Grocery Outlet, I know I’m not the only one with special feelings for Grocery Outlet, Bargain Market. I know this because when I find myself there on a Friday night, newly single, I am not alone in my wandering trance. Who are all these other sad sacks? I ask myself each time. Are they also trying to retrace their ancestors’ steps? Trying to spark someone’s appetite? Feeling empty and broke and rich and lucky at once and -- ? Grocery Outlet’s jingle on the loudspeaker is Pavlovian, snapping me back to the present moment. It might be easier to understand the importance of Grocery Outlet and the discount stores like it if you are either an immigrant or descendant of immigrants, if you’re broke, or if you’re someone currently eating your feelings — or all of the above. But I’m pretty sure that’s most of us in the United States. Grocery Outlet was founded by James Read in San Francisco, in June of 1946. My mom was born a month
later in Spanish Harlem, the daughter of poor Jewish immigrants. She grew up to be an antique dealer and reseller of clothes, always hustling. She is still more or less living month to month at 72. When I was born, she says my father’s brother asked, “Is she going to be a bag lady like her mom?” She taught me how to scan the aisles of thrift stores and Grocery Outlets, to forage the bushels of discounts for survival. Wednesdays off from school meant the 50% off sale at our favorite Hayward thrift store, followed by a marathon of varsity-level secondhand shopping, punctuated by a celebratory buffet at Bombay Garden. We were not comfortable, but we could afford to buy things we didn’t need, so long as most of it was resold to yuppy consignment stores. It was a very particular type of luxury.
Grocery Outlet remains in the Read family. Though it has expanded, its inventory still comes primarily from overstocked and closeout items purchased directly from manufacturers. The stores keep certain products on shelves beyond the “best if used by” dates, but all products have to be pulled by 30 days past their expiration. If this turns your nose upwards, you are not one of us. It doesn’t matter much if you don’t find what you’re looking for at Grocery Outlet. That just gives you, our lovable sad sack, something to look forward to next time. It isn’t relevant that for a few more dollars you would be guaranteed to find what you’re looking for across town at Sprouts. What matters is that you never indulge in a luxury like pumpkinseed butter unless it feels stolen.
Yelp review of Grocery Outlet, Oakland: I can’t really write this review bc I will get too emotional. I make up songs about grocery outlet. buy ur non-dairy milk here they always have it n it’s like $1.50 Thank u grocery outlet luv u. My ex, as I’m trying to get used to calling him, never appreciated the place. I tried to take him thinking that surely, as a third-generation Jew, he’d appreciate it. But he’d never been trained to fear the money could run out, or that the key to leveling up could be just around the aisle. “Wait! You’re in line already?” I balked. “But you didn’t even look at the bougie isle!” It’s the one all Grocery Outlets have labeled, appropriately enough, “NOSH” (Natural, Organic, Special-
ty, Health). This was vegan gold! The heavily-discounted almond butter, hemp seeds, Mary’s Gone Crackers, Elmhurst cashew milk… he shrugged, grabbed a large organic peanut butter, and got back in line. Last fall, my uncle was diagnosed with cancer at the same time my mom’s finances imploded. Going up to Oakland to help them was supposed to be temporary, but the distance eventually led me to move out of our shared place in LA for good. Though I mourned my recent past life domestic re-upping at Costco, my new standing date with Grocery Outlet was certainly more exciting. Here I was, a woman finally (finally!) left to wander the aisles of unknown rewards at her own pace. I pushed my cart with a sharp and savvy nose.■ To be continued....