Fountain Valley Living - November 2023

FESTIVAL OF TREES p. 10 / RECIPE OF THE MONTH p. 24 FVHS BINGO p. 30

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NOVEMBER 2023

Hyundai Hope on Wheels RUNNERS RAISE OVER $37,000 TO FIGHT CANCER SEE PAGE 4

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178 Small-town living ISSUE No.

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SCOTT & ANNE ROGERS FOUNTAIN VALLEY LIVING, LLC PUBLISHERS

CURT SEEDEN, (714) 932-1957 BETH ERICKSON WRITER MINNIE DAO NOELLE DAHL INTERN WRITER AVERY HOANG PHOTOGRAPHERS VINCE SOSA CROSSWORD SEAN ZIEBARTH COPY EDITOR KRISTAL SEEDEN ADVERTISING SCOTT ROGERS, (714) 742-8815 PRINT PRODUCTION REED PRINTING, ONTARIO MAIL PREPARATION HANDS-ON MAILING, BUENA PARKR WRITER/EDITOR

PAGE DESIGNER

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Photo by SCOTT ROGERS / Fountain Valley Living Magazine

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Giving Thanks

ovember marks the start of our second year as owners of Fountain Valley Living. The first draft of this column originally described November as the “end” of our first year. But that seemed downbeat, a bit “glass half empty” and gave the impression that we were glad it was behind us. Like a runner passing a mile marker that means they’re that much closer to a finish line like the one on this month’s cover.

Nothing could be further from the truth. The past 12 months have flown by and we are filled with excitement for the future. This is due in large part to the support we’ve received from friends, neighbors, and residents. Most of the articles you read and photos you see are from readers

like you. Thank you for sharing your stories with us.

If you know/meet someone you read about in this issue, please thank them for being part of our community. For example, Prem Balani has been involved with the FV Community Foundation for 10 years including 5 years as president (page 10).

The Community Foundation does a ton of good including hosting a poker tournament to fundraise for the new playground (page 8) and hosting a Hall of Fame dinner for LAHS athletes (page 22). The Kiwanis Club of FV which also does a ton for the city installed its slate of officers and board members for the coming year (page 13). And, FVHS parents have hosted bingo games on Thursday nights for almost 40 years with the profits helping fund the school’s activities & events (page 30).

We’re lucky to have such great SCOTT & ANNE ROGERS neighbors. Thank you to everyone Publishers who makes Fountain Valley A Nice Place to Live.

Scott and Anne 2

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Fountain Valley Living Magazine

2023 ADVISORY BOARD (VOLUNTEER) CURT and LYNN SEEDEN, FOUNDERS OF FOUNTAIN VALLEY LIVING MAGAZINE

SUSAN SAURASTRI, REALTOR, SEVEN GABLES REAL ESTATE

DAVID TRUONG, OWNER, MIMI’S JEWELRY

LARRY CRANDALL, FORMER MAYOR

SANDRA CRANDALL, TRUSTEE, FOUNTAIN VALLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT

JOHN ETHERIDGE, OWNER, SEASHORE PEST CONTROL To advertise: publisher@FVLM.com

MEMBER OF

FOUNTAIN VALLEY LIVING MAGAZINE IS PRIVATELY OWNED BY

Fountain Valley Living, LLC

10507 SLATER AVE., SUITE C FOUNTAIN VALLEY, CA 92708

(714) 202-7750 Office Fountain Valley Living Magazine is mailed free each month to all homes and businesses in 92708 (no P.O. boxes). Additional copies are placed on countertops throughout the community.

Total monthly distribution is 25,000 each issue (21,641 mailed and 3,359 countertop), for a total distribution of 300,000 copies per year. The publication is funded by advertising, patrons and fundraisers.

COVER PHOTO BY VINCE SOSA / Fountain Valley Living Magazine

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COMMUNITY

Almost 1K runners participated in the annual race to help fight childhood cancer.

Photo by VINCE SOSA / Fountain Valley Living Magazine

HYUNDAI HOPE ON WHEELS Now in its 25th year, the annual 5K and Fun Run has raised over $225M

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ight rain did not dampen the spirits or the enthusiasm for the Hyundai Hope On Wheels 5K and Color Fun Run on Saturday, Sept. 30.

The event, held at the Fountain Valley Sports Park, attracted a record 844 registered runners between the certified 5K, Color Fun Run, and virtual run option, and raised $37,000 for the Hyundai Hope On Wheels pediatric cancer research, as well as local school groups and charities.

This year is the 25th anniversary of Hyundai Hope On Wheels, and following this year’s event, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will surpass a lifetime total donation of $225 million 4

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in support of more than 1,300 childhood cancer research grants.

Congratulations to the Fountain Valley High School Dance Team, which had a great showing with a team total of 63 members. Local non-profits and school groups with 10 or more team members were eligible to earn funds from the net proceeds of the event.

Eight of the 10 schools in the Fountain Valley School District met that challenge. Organizers congratulated the top three schools — Masuda with 45 runners, Courreges with 42 runners, and Plavan with 35 runners. The No. 1 school also won a free movie night from the Fountain Valley Recreation Department to use

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

as an additional fundraiser or fun gathering.

Organizers thanked the Courreges Cougar mascot, who came out to support the school’s team and thanked all of the teams that participated and helped to make the event a successful fundraiser.

“Of course, a huge thank you to the sponsors, CHOC, (and their mascot, CHOCO Bear), CompassX Group, InStudio Orthodontics, Bennett Acupuncture, Fountain Valley Community Foundation, Fountain Valley Grocery Outlet, Fountain Valley Living Magazine, Fountain Valley Regional Hospital, Kingston Technology, Mimi’s Jewelry, Sports Basement, Yakult, and, of course, Hyundai www.fvlm.com

Motor America for allowing the city to host this fabulous event. Stater Brothers on Euclid and Warner also donated water for the water station,” said Michelle Karajelian, manager, corporate social responsibility and external relations for Hyundai.

Here are the top overall winners for the certified 5K by gender: Runners of all ages came out to help.

Photo by VINCE SOSA / Fountain Valley Living Magazine

Female – Overall 1. Lisa Cichon, HB 2. Elizabeth Park, Aliso Viejo 3. Sarah Hong, Fountain Valley

Male – Overall 1. Shane Hill, Fountain Valley 2. Ethan Chan, Irvine 3. Rory Aberton, Torrance 14 and under Female: Lisa Cichon, HB Male: Shane Cichon, HB

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

Fountain Valley resident Shane Hill finished in 1st place (center) followed by Ethan Chan (left) in 2nd place and Hyundai’s Rory Aberton (right) came in 3rd.

Photo by RYAN MILLER / Capture Imaging

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Dear Fountain Valley Living...

Fun events around town and spiffy mail from our readers.

It’s Magazine Day...

► It's Magazine Day in ...

Fountain Valley Living’s mini puzzle

By Sean Ziebarth FVHS English Teacher

Sudoku By The Mepham Group

Longtime Fountain Valley residents Level 1 Mylon and Darlene Osburn enjoyed breakfast with their new great-grand daughter, Monroe Violet Plattner, in Plano, TX along with former residents Jennifer, Grace and Olivia Plattner, Cathleen Osburn and new parents Monty and Raegan Plattner.

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Solution to Thursday’s puzzle

ACROSS 1 First animal sound in "Old MacDonald" 4 Spot to tie the knot 7 "Same here!"

8 They served our country 9 Chapters in history DOWN 1 Fuming 2 Popeye's sweetie 3 Adorable aquatic mammal 5 Lead-in to boy or girl 6 Supremes singer Diana

10/20/23

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit 1 to 9.

For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit sudoku.org.uk. © 2023 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

Find the solution on page 29.

Find the solution on page 29.

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Fountain Valley Living Magazine

www.fvlm.com

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

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IT’S MUCH MORE THAN JUST A RUN IN THE PARK Don Marion

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Past President XC/T&F Boosters

COMMUNITY

he Central Park Invitational, also known as CPI, began back in 1981 under the direction of then-Coach Bill Thompson of Fountain Valley High School.

This elite high school cross country running event is held annually in Huntington Beach Central Park.

The 42nd Annual CPI was held this year on Saturday Sept. 30.

Originally the participants were the six Sunset League teams, but the event has now grown to include more than 100 schools from California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Washington and Hawaii.

The runners enjoy the excitement and challenge of a 3-mile course that includes grass, dirt, asphalt, hills, and a loop around a lake.

Though CPI was once timed by a stopwatch, it has transitioned into

Runners compete in the annual CPI.

digital timing with accuracy to the 10th of a second. The day begins promptly at 8 a.m. with an open race for inspired athletes and running clubs.

The next 16 races are broken down into various classifications, including large and small schools with divisions for boys and girls varsity, junior varsity, sophomore and freshman teams.

At the finish line, runners are treated to fresh filtered water donated by the Fountain Valley Police Officers Association. The top athletes are awarded Surf City-themed and numbered medals while the top three teams in every race earn a Central Park Invitational-en-

Photo by EVA ENRIQUEZ / FVHS Cross Country Parent

Photo by ANDREW HSIEH / Fountain Valley High School

Runners receive support from FVPOA.

graved bamboo surfboard award.

The event is hosted by the Fountain Valley High School Cross Country/ Track and Field Boosters. Revenue from the event is used to support the cross country and track and field teams at FVHS.

DEALING A HELPING HAND Curt Seeden

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Fountain Valley Living Magazine

he Fountain Valley Community Foundation will host its fall Texas Hold’em Charity Poker Tournament on Nov. 4 at the Center at Founders Village Senior & Community Center.

Proceeds from the tournament will support the city’s new Universally Accessible Playground, which is being built in the Fountain Valley Sports Park.

The tournament gives Fountain Valley nonprofit groups an opportunity to participate and raise funds for their organizations.

If an organization registers at least 10 8

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players, the $25 registration fee per player goes back to the organization. It’s an easy way to fundraise and have a great time, organizers said.

Walk-up registrations are $30 and will start at 5:15 p.m. the day of the event. Walk up registration fees will automatically go to the Fountain Valley Community Foundation to support the building of the Universally Accessible Playground.

You can also register at the Fountain Valley Recreation Center, 16400 Brookhurst St., or at the Center at Founders Village, 17967 Bushard St. Registration forms will be available at both sites.

Registration is payable by check.

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

Photo by VINCE SOSA / Fountain Valley Living Magazine

Players at last year’s event.

All registered players must be 21 years old or older to play. Questions: Call (714) 593-4449. www.fvlm.com

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

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FESTIVAL OF TREES SET FOR DEC. 3 It’s an afternoon of fun, food, family and friends.

Connie Wadsley

I

Fountain Valley Resident

OUR CITY

t’s an afternoon of fun, food, family and friends.

The Fountain Valley Schools Foundation will once again hold its popular Festival of Trees fundraiser from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3 at the Center at Founders Village.

Completely decorated artificial holiday trees will be raffled off at the event, which will also feature holiday music, food and drink, and a performance by the Fountain Valley School District student choir.

Tree sponsorships and event tickets are available here: www.fvschools.org The cost of a tree sponsorship is $250. This includes a fully decorated and lighted tree, a $50 bill awarded to the winner of the tree in the sponsor’s name, advertisement in the program at the event, signage at the event identifying the sponsor’s donation, recognition on the Schools Foundation website and one complimentary ticket to the event.

Last year’s event was sold out and seats are limited. For more info, contact Connie Wadsley at crwadsley@yahoo. com or (714) 964-9834.

Examples of last year’s trees.

Photos Provided,

FV RESIDENT PREM BALANI HONORED BY REP. MICHELLE STEEL Mike White

F

Fountain Valley Resident

ountain Valley resident Prem Balani is among 14 senior citizens who have been honored

by U.S. Rep Michelle Steel (R-45th District) for making an impact in their communities through leadership and volunteerism.

Balani has been a member of the Fountain Valley Community Foundation for more than 10 years, including 10

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five years as the foundation president.

While serving as the foundation’s president, Balani started an "Acts of Kindness" program, which recognizes people in the community for their positive efforts. The honorees receive a small gift card and a note of appreciation.

Balani is also a volunteer and supporter of the Kiwanis Club of Fountain Valley and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley.

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

Photo Provided,

Linda Balani, Prem Balani and son Mitch Barela at the ceremony. www.fvlm.com

INTERESTED IN BECOMING AN RSVP VOLUNTEER?

By Curt Seeden

T

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

he Fountain Valley Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is looking for new volunteers for its Class of 2024.

RSVP established in June of 1990, starting with nine RSVP volunteers.

The program currently has 40 members.

RSVP’s work in a variety of capacities and under the guidance of a police sergeant.

RSVP’s are selected for service through a competitive interview

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

process. They attend in-depth training where they learn about the organization and inner workings of the Police Department.

The training includes such topics as residential vacation house checks, code enforcement training, radio codes and procedures, fingerprinting and Live Scan, clerical tasks, participation in various special events such as DUI checkpoints, National Night Out and Summerfest.

RSVP’s also issue handicap violations and fire lane parking citations

and remove illegal signage from public property.

Upon graduation members are sworn in by the chief of police and then scheduled to work with other RSVP’s.

To learn more about becoming an RSVP volunteer, go to https://www.fountainvalley.gov/714/Retired-Senior-Volunteer-Program

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KIWANIS CAPS BUSY YEAR WITH ANNUAL INSTALLATION BANQUET

By Curt Seeden

T

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

he Kiwanis Club of Fountain Valley held its annual installation banquet on Sunday, Oct. 8 at Coastline Community

College.

The event included dinner, awards to several club members and the installation of new officers and board members.

Former Mayor Steve Nagel, a longtime club member, was named Kiwanian of the Year. Other honorees include Sally Accetta (Club Service Award), Alondra Martinez (District Service Award) and Art Groeneveld (President’s Award).

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

Kiwanis Club of Fountain Valley held its annual installation banquet.

Brian Genovese was installed as the 2023-2024 club president. Others installed include Debbie Killey, president elect; Theresa Powers Ramirez, secretary; Gary Forman, treasurer and assistant secretary; and Michael Hohertz, immediate past president.

This past year, the club’s service to the community included Kiwanis Kares in which members helped clothe 24 youth in the community. Local donor Alan Burns gave a $5,000 donation toward this event for the coming year.

The club also partnered with Grocery Outlet of Fountain Valley for its “Independence from Hunger” food drive and raised $14,860 in cash and

Photo Provided,

food in July to serve local non-profits in the community including Robyn’s Nest, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley.

The club partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley to help raise $52,000 at its annual Pins for Kids event at Fountain Bowl in August and provided a pancake breakfast at various events, including for Easter and the Miss Fountain Valley Scholarship Program, fed soldiers at the Los Alamitos Joint Armed Forces Training Base, handed out turkeys for Thanksgiving, and held a Christmas party for youngsters from Orangewood Children's Home.

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A BOUNTIFUL HARVEST IS MEANT TO BE SHARED

"T HOME

he smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention” — Oscar Wilde November is the month when we invite friends and family to gather, reflect, give thanks and share our bounty.

If you’re reading this article today it’s likely you’re sitting in the comfort of your kitchen as you drink your morning coffee or maybe you’re in your home office about to compose an email.

Consider that Fountain Valley SUSAN SAURASTRI is home to 18,852 residences with a population of 57,139. Sixty-seven percent of those homes are owner occupied.

Nearly 31 percent of those households have children and 69 percent do not. The median household income is $92,765.

Our homes are our sanctuaries.

Walk through the door and it’s the place where you can be your most authentic self. You can peel off the layers of whatever stresses you’ve encountered on the other side of the door. You can embrace whatever or whoever awaits your arrival — your spouse, kids, pets or your favorite chair. Turn up the music or watch your favorite show.

Every prayer you whisper, each tear you shed, or laugh you bellow, every story you tell or secret you share, the walls of your home hear it all, welcome it all and bear it all. So, this month, when you count your blessings and express your gratitude, look up, look around and smile. Whether you rent it or own it, your home is where you can recover from whatever life throws at you.

Consider all the community ame-

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nities that Fountain Valley offers kids and adults: neighborhood parks, golf courses, sports fields, a senior center, a recreation center, hospitals, and award-winning schools. None of these could operate as efficiently and provide the services we receive without the dedication of good neighbor volunteers, city staff and business owners who sponsor events.

Let’s also give thanks to Fountain Valley’s non-profits, many of which run on shoestring budgets but provide an array of scholarships and services to those in need: the FV Rotary Club, FV Woman’s Club, Kiwanis Club of Fountain Valley, Boys & Girls Clubs of Huntington Valley and the FV Community Foundation.

An honorable mention also goes to the social media groups that foster neighborly advice and recommendations and facilitate cooperation when help is needed. The administrators all have day jobs of their own but monitor these sites to ensure civil discourse is maintained.

We are fortunate indeed to live in a

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

city that has a climate that is the envy of the rest of the nation. Fountain Valley boasts its own magazine with stories for and about its neighbors.

This month as we partake of the goodness all around us and celebrate the season with joyful hearts, let’s be mindful of those who are not as fortunate.

If you and/or your loved ones want to share your bounty, contact any one of Fountain Valley’s places of worship.

Many collect and distribute food to others in need. In so doing, you bless yourself and others. Happy Thanksgiving, one and all.

R.E. Lic. No. 01259317

This column is paid for by Susan Saurastri, a Realtor® with Seven Gables Real Estate and a longtime Fountain Valley resident.

Contact her at (714) 317-0664 or www.FountainValleyLiving.com. www.fvlm.com

YOUNG WOMEN INVITED TO TAKE PART IN MISS FV SCHOLARSHIP COMPETITION

By Curt Seeden

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

Y

oung women, ages 18-28, are invited to take part in the Miss Fountain Valley Scholarship Competition, set for 5 p.m. Feb. 4, 2024 at Golden West College’s Mainstage Theater.

Organizers have scheduled an orientation meeting for potential contestants for 9:30 a.m., Nov. 11 in the Coastal Community Fellowship Church multipurpose room, 10460 Slater Ave. The competition offers thousands of dollars in scholarships and the chance to compete at the Miss California competition, the preliminary to the Miss America competition.

For more information visit: http:// www.missfountainvalley.com and fill

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

out the registration form.

Additionally, organizers are

bringing back the “Miss Fountain Valley Little Miss Program.” This is a non-competitive program for girls, ages 5-12. Cost is $125 and $100 per additional sister.

A Little Miss dance rehearsal and pizza party with the Miss Fountain Valley Court is set for Jan. 20, 2024.

Participants receive an official Miss America Little Sisters tiara, Little Miss sash, dance performance onstage plus one adult ticket to the Miss Fountain Valley event at Golden West College’s Mainstage Theater.

A Little Miss orientation meeting with parents and their daughters is planned for 11:30 a.m., Dec. 9 at Coastal Community Fellowship.

To sign up and for more information go to: www.missfountainvalley.com

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Sunday

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DEADLINE

for ads and news for the OCTOBER 2023 issue of FV Living Magazine

FV Schools Foundation Mtg 12noon @ FVSD Office

Congregate Lunch 11:30 a.m. @ Founders Village Senior Center

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Wednesday

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Congregate Lunch 11:30 a.m. @ Center at Founder’s Village

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Congregate Lunch 11:30 a.m. @ Center at Founder’s Village

Congregate Lunch 11:30 a.m. @ Center at Founder’s Village

City Council Meeting 6 p.m. @ City Hall

Planning Commission 6 p.m. @ City Hall

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Rotary Most Improved Student Awards 7:30 a.m. @ Center at Founders Village

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FVSD Board Meeting 6 p.m. @ FVSD Office

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Congregate Lunch 11:30 a.m. @ Center at Founder’s Village

Congregate Lunch 11:30 a.m. @ Center at Founder’s Village

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Congregate Lunch 11:30 a.m. @ Center at Founder’s Village

City Council Meeting 6 p.m. @ City Hall

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www.fvlm.com

Friday

Saturday

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4 Dump Day & Compost Giveaway 8-11 a.m. @ FV Sports Park

►Be a part of the Magazine!

Fountain Valley Living Magazine is looking for Fountain Valley residents interested in writing FV people features, FV news and announcements, taking great photos, drawing cartoons and creating other quality content for publication.

If you’re interested, please contact publisher@fvlm.com.

City Hall Closed

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11 Garden Club 9 a.m. @ Heritage Park next to Library Miss FV Orientation Meeting 9:30 a.m. @ 10460 Slater Ave. Veterans Day Ceremony 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. @ Veterans Park

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City Hall Closed

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City Hall Closed

VEMBER Email: publisher@fvlm.com

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11/30/2023

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AROUND TOWN

FV Finds!

Thanks again to Edinger Medical Group for sponsoring FV Finds in the October issue of Fountain Valley Living. Congratulations to Shabana Albuquerque and nine other FV residents who each won a $25 Target gift card. If you’re an EMG patient, please let them know you appreciate their support of our community!

►Veterans Day ceremony is Nov. 11

The City of Fountain Valley and the West Orange County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post & Auxiliary 9557 will present the city’s annual Veterans Day Ceremony from 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 11 at Veterans Park, 17635 Los Alamos St., next to the Fountain Valley Library.

For more information, call (714) 5934446.

►Miss Fountain Valley fundraiser is Nov. 18

The Miss Fountain Valley Scholarship Foundation will hold a breakfast, raffle, and silent auction fundraiser from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18 at Ozzie’s Grill in Fountain Bowl.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online at www.missfountainvalley.com. Tickets will also be available at the door.

AROUND TOWN Breakfast will be provided by the Kiwanis Club of Fountain Valley. The event will include live music, an appearance by the Miss Fountain Valley Court and Miss Fountain Valley 2024 candidates.

Fountain Bowl is at 17110 Brookhurst St. More information: (714) 501-9616.

► City Tree Lighting is Dec. 2

Mark your calendars: The city’s annual Tree Lighting will be held from 4:30-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Fountain Valley Sports Park.

The event will feature games and crafts, food from local non-profits, entertainment, photos with Santa and the Hyundai Snow Zone.

The tree lighting is scheduled for 5:30-5:45 p.m.

This year’s sponsors are the Fountain Valley Community Foundation, Lily Campbell Team, Republic Services, Farmers Insurance –Theresa Simes, Kingston Technology and Manfred Orthodontics.

The Sports Park is at 16400 Brookhurst St. More information: Call (714) 593-4449.

►Festival Ballet to present ‘Nutcracker’ Dec. 9-24

Fountain Valley-based Festival Ballet Theatre will once again present “The Nutcracker” this holiday season.

Thirteen performances are scheduled between Dec. 9-24 at the Irvine Barclay Theatre.

“The Nutcracker” features world-renowned guest artists, professional Festival Ballet Theatre company dancers, and exceptional young talent from across the Southland.

“There is something for everyone in this breathtaking production, which captures the holiday spirit and showcases our company through iconic music, sets, costumes and choreography,” said Artistic Director Salwa Rizkalla.

(AROUND TOWN, cont. on page 21)

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www.fvlm.com

(AROUND TOWN, cont. from page 19)

All 13 performances will take place at The Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine.

Additionally, attendees of “The Nutcracker” ballet production may purchase an additional holiday treat “The Nutcracker Tea Party.” Guests will enjoy catered gourmet finger sandwiches, petit fours and scones with tea and lemonade in the elegantly holiday decorated Jade Room at Irvine Barclay Theatre. A glass of champagne adds to the festive experience for the adults.

Characters from the ballet will join the party as the story, and photo opportunities and a party favor are included for each guest.

Tickets for “The Nutcracker” are $45 for adults and seniors and $35 for those 21 and younger.

Performances are at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Dec. 10-18; 6 p.m. Dec. 20-23; and 11 a.m. Dec. 24.

Contact the Barclay Box Office directly at (949) 854-4646 or tickets.

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

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OUR SCHOOLS

“Fountain Valley Community Foundation held its annual Hall of Fame dinner for Los Amigos athletes.

Photos by CAMILA IRAHETA / LAHS Yearbook

THE LEGENDS OF LOS AMIGOS

By Todd Nirk

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Los Amigos Principal

t was a special night for Los Amigos High School and its storied sports programs on Saturday, Oct. 14, when the Fountain Valley Community Foundation (FVCF) held its annual Hall of Fame dinner.

With over 200 in attendance, the FVCF honored 10 different athletes, coaches, and teams over the course of the night, highlighting the accomplishments and contributions of each.

The inductees were Oscar Trout, 1974 Player of the Year water polo; Doug Frantom, 1972 All-CIF Southern Section water polo; Sandra Hall, 1979 All-CIF basketball and softball; Roger Takahashi, 100-33-1 record in 12 years as Los Amigos head football coach; 1982 Girls Volleyball team, CIF finalists; Clifford Weimer, donor and 22

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football coach beginning in 1990; Tom Schneiderjohn, 1975 Los Angeles Times Player of the Year basketball; 1992 Boys Water Polo team, CIF Division IV champions; Kathy Kiernan, 1979 Garden Grove League Athlete of the Year cross country and track; Mike Current Los Amigos staff in attendance.

Schiesel, water polo coach 1969-1992.

Current boys and girls water polo These inductees have laid a strong players at Los Amigos High School foundation for sports legacies to carry served the guests dinner. The inductees on, and we have already seen multiple were treated to videos, pictures, and a CIF championships won at Los Amigos special presentation delivered by a colin recent years. We know the current league or coach before each had a chance and future Los Amigos classes will to come on stage and say a few words make us as proud as these inductees about their experience at Los Amigos. have made us, and we are delighted Their stories and accomplishments were that they are now forever part of the inspiring and they have set a high mark Fountain Valley Community Foundafor future athletes to aim for. tion’s Hall of Fame.

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

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►Find the Fountain

There is a small picture of a fountain hidden among the pages of this magazine. Find the fountain, take a photo of yourself with that page of the magazine, and email it to publisher@fvlm.com. First person to do so will win a $10 Starbucks card and may have their photo published in a future issue of Fountain Valley Living.

October’s Fountain Finder was Hai-Tao Wang. He received a $10 Starbucks gift card for emailing us a photo of its location. Who will with this month?

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

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ROASTED WHOLE DUCK WITH MISSION FIGS, THYME AND POTATOES

E RECIPE OF THE MONTH

njoy this wonderful fall recipe from Wild Fork Foods for a beautifully roasted whole duck with a port and fig sauce, yukon potatoes and roasted figs. Find ingredients for this recipe and more by visiting the Wild Fork Foods at the corner of Brookhurst & Adams in Huntington Beach.

Ingredients: Wild Fork duck whole 1 ½ Tbsp Wild Fork coarse sea salt ½ Tbsp Wild Fork black peppercorns 2 leeks, trimmed to white part and cut in 2” pieces 1 large onion, peeled and cut in large chunks 1 small bunch fresh thyme sprigs Garnishes: 10-12 fresh black mission figs, cut in half or dried figs soaked in some water overnight 12-16 oz. baby yukon potatoes, cut in half Additional sprigs of thyme

Port and Fig Sauce: 1/2 cup chicken broth 1/2 cup tawny port wine 1/2 cup fig marmalade 2 Tbsp rendered duck fat * 2 Tsp balsamic vinegar Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°.

Prepare a roasting pan.

Step 2: On a work surface, place whole duck and pat dry. Using a paring knife, score the fatty skin on the breast, thighs and drumsticks, being careful not to cut into flesh. Poke a 24

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few holes around extra-fatty areas of cavity. Season the duck with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stuff the cavity with the leeks, onion and sprigs of thyme and place the duck in the roasting pan, breast side down. Place in oven and roast for 45 minutes. Turn it on its back and keep roasting for an additional 30-40 minutes or until it’s evenly golden brown. Remove pan from oven and put aside ¼ cup of the rendered fat.* Step 4: Place the potatoes around the duck, stir to coat with the roasting juices and fat; season with salt and pepper. Return duck and potatoes to the oven and continue to roast until skin is brown and crisp, around 30-40 minutes.

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Step 5 - Sauce: Place fat in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir, cooking for 30 seconds. Gradually add chicken broth and Port wine, continuously stirring with a whisk. Add balsamic vinegar and fig marmalade and stir until smooth. Keep warm.

Step 6: Remove duck from the oven and add figs and thyme to potatoes.

Lightly toss and cook for 5-7 additional minutes in the oven.

Step 7: Transfer duck to a cutting board and let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with sauce, and potatoes and figs placed around. www.fvlm.com

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

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25

Several Oak Glen apple orchards during the start of Fall just before the changing of the colors.

Photos by JOEL HENSLER / Shutterstock

TRAVEL

CELEBRATE FALL AT THE OAK GLEN APPLE BUTTER FESTIVAL

By Noelle Dahl

I

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

f you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle for a day, you need to check out Southern California’s greatest secret. Nestled in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains lies a hidden gem destination that embodies the idyllic small-town charm we all crave during the holiday season.

Welcome to Oak Glen, a charming apple town less than a two hour drive away from Orange County. Visitors flock from all over Southern California to partake in seasonal activities like berry picking in the summer, sledding during the snowy months, and loading up on all things apple-flavored in the fall.

Oak Glen is known for its abundant apple orchards and historic charm, but few know about the annual Apple Butter Festival that takes place every Thanks26

NOVEMBER 2023

Photo Provided,

Wagon rides through the apple orchards.

Fountain Valley Living Magazine

giving weekend.

The Oak Glen Apple Butter Festival is a family-friendly event that appeals to all ages. Nearly all businesses in the town of Oak Glen partake and offer apple-flavored treats and fall activities for the entire family to enjoy.

The art of apple butter making dates to the 16th century when farmers would collect their year’s end harvest and cook the apples for winter preserves. It celebrates the end of the fall season and represents a cherished tradition that continues to make memories for years to come.

The festival is not just a celebration of the history behind apple butter but pays homage to the region’s rich agricultural history. Oak Glen has a long-standing tradition of apple cultivation and agriculture, and the Apple Butter Festival serves as a reminder of the area’s roots.

Here’s what you can expect from

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some of the businesses celebrating Oak Glen’s Apple Butter Festival.

Los Rios Ranch has been a prominent business in Oak Glen and the oldest apple farm in California since 1906. It’s easily one of the most popular destinations when visiting the small town with plentiful apple orchards to pick apples from and homemade mini donuts made fresh every hour.

Thanksgiving weekend, Los Rios Ranch will be stoking the fires under its 100-year-old copper pot where staff will be cooking down the last of their seasonal apples. They’ll also offer live music, cider tasting, and carriage tours around their massive property making it the perfect place for a romantic date destination.

Be sure to walk the historic grounds of Riley’s Farm, which is on the property. Riley’s Farm will bring you back to the colonial days when the whole family could take part in candle making, axe throwing, and more.

Another hotspot in Oak Glen during the Apple Butter Festival is Wilshire’s Apple Shed, which serves up wood-fired sourdough pizza and apple lattes.

The general store will be teeming with apple butter made in-house and other apple goodies. You won’t find a better general store in the area.

So, grab yourself a pizza and a seasonal apple-butter latte to warm up during this Thanksgiving weekend.

After you’ve had your fair share of apple butter goodness, it’s time to head on over to the Oak Tree Mountain Village where you’ll find apple pies and handcrafted goods. Oak Tree Mountain Village is home to the famous Apple Annie’s — home of the original mile-high apple pie. This is the quintessential small-town diner where you can enjoy a steaming slice of apple pie and a cup of coffee.

You’ll find plenty of locally owned businesses in Oak Tree Mountain as well as a petting zoo, mountain slide,

Email: publisher@fvlm.com

Photos by GERALD PEPLOW / Shutterstock

Tractor Ride at the Harvest U-Pick Field

Photo Provided,

and free-range peacocks to keep you company. During the festival, Oak Tree Mountain Village will also host a craft fair with local artisans and food stands.

When leaving Oak Glen’s apple-scented air behind, it becomes clear why this charming town’s cherished traditions will continue to create family memories for years to come.

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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Plumbing

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COMMUNITY

Players enjoy the weekly bingo games at FVHS.

BINGO NIGHT: AN FVHS TRADITION SINCE 1985

By AVERY HOANG Fountain Valley Living Magazine

B

ingo night has been a cherished tradition at Fountain Valley High School since 1985.

The event is run by 40 enthusiastic parent volunteers to raise funds to support extracurricular activities and events that benefit both students and the community at large.

Bingo night was established to alleviate the financial burdens that often accompany extracurricular activities in public education. FVHS, being a public school, encourages voluntary contributions to various programs and activities.

More than $1 million in revenue generated from bingo night has been instrumental in supporting vital 30

NOVEMBER 2023

Photo by AVERY HOANG / Fountain Valley Living Magazine

school initiatives, including the athletic training room, the need for Chromebooks Photo by AUDREY GARCIA / Fountain Valley High School Parent during the pandemic and Every Thursday, 40 FVHS parents host bingo with proceeds supporting school activities. various items needed for the school’s sports teams, organizers said. like refreshments, catering, and Bingo night at FVHS is held wheelchair assistance are provided. every Thursday evening, beginning Volunteers are always on hand, with setup at 3 p.m. and ending eager to assist and make the event at 10:30 p.m. following 20 Bingo enjoyable for everyone. games.

“All we want to do is help proParticipants must be 18 years or mote it and help give [students] older and no longer attending the the things they need,” said Audree school. The atmosphere is charged Garcia, a manager of the bingo with excitement, especially when night and a volunteer since 2008. a lucky winner claims the jackpot, “Bingo night at Fountain Valley known as the Baron Ball.

High School is not just a game. It's a To ensure the comfort and community endeavor, an enjoyable accessibility of all participants, tradition, and a means to support including elders, accommodations the bright futures of the students.”

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WHERE TO FIND

Fountain Valley Living Magazine IN YOUR MAILBOX Fountain Valley Living Magazine is mailed (U.S. Post Office delivery) to homes and businesses in 92708. No P.O. boxes, though.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY BUSINESSES Albertsons Grocery Store Brookhurst and Ellis Alex A. Accetta, CPA & Assoc.

8840 Warner Ave., Suite 204 Chamber of Commerce 10055 Slater Ave., Suite 250 Denny's Restaurant 16205 Brookhurst St. (at Edinger) Edinger Medical Center 9900 Talbert Ave. (next to Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center) Lamppost Pizza 10130 Warner Ave. (east of Brookhurst) Mimi’s Jewelry 18591 Brookhurst St. (by Albertsons) Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center 9920 Talbert Ave. (at Brookhurst) UPS Store 18627 Brookhurst St. (by Islands) Yong’s Donuts 18054 Magnolia St. (at Talbert)

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