Mid Valley News 10.11.17 Vol#54 Issue#18

Sports

Entertainment

El Monte’s Girls

Queen Mary’s Dark

Volleyball, page 4

Harbor Nights, page 6

Vol. 54, No. 18

Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966

October 11, 2017

Arroyo Teacher Awarded 2017 Teacher of The Year

by Staff writer El Monte

The El Monte Union High School District congratulated Jamie Witt for being named a 2017 Los Angeles County of Education Teacher of The Year.

“I am excited and honored to represent my colleagues and I hope to showcase the hard work that educators of El Monte Union do for our students. I would like to thank my principal at Arroyo, Angelita Gonzales-Hernandez, for her overwhelming support, and for providing me with the opportunities to lead and shine on our campus. I feel privileged.”

The Los Angeles County competition called for essays, lesson plans, resumes, letters of reference and interviews. At all levels, Teacher of the Year events are designed to focus public attention on teaching excellence, and to honor educators who have demonstrated exemplary dedi-

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cation, compelling classroom practices, positive accomplishments and professional commitment.

According to Principal GonzalesHernandez, Ms. Witt would never be described as complacent. A tireless

educator for 20 years, her active style reflects her commitment to the students, the district, and Arroyo High School.

Ms. Witt’s accomplishments are many and when reviewing all she

El Monte Improves Commuter Safety

by Staff Writer El Monte

The City of El Monte is one step closer to providing safer public transportation with the approved purchase of new surveillance equipment, which will be installed in 18 buses and public transportation vehicles.

“Commuters who use our transportation must feel safe,” Mayor Pro Tem Jerry Velasco said. “The installation of these new surveillance systems will help us accomplish that goal.”

Each bus will be outfitted with five cameras to capture interior and exterior footage and will feature DVR equipment to record both audio and video. Footage can be remotely downloaded by the El Monte Police Department for detecting, preventing and investigating crimes.

The cameras will be installed on eight of the City’s vehicles used for its trolley and Dial-a-Ride services and 10 vehicles used for commuter shuttles, senior transportation, and recreational and special event transportation.

A future safety project under consideration from the City’s transportation department is the inclusion of panic buttons for each of its buses, which will alert dispatch or police in the event of an emergency.

The purchase of surveillance equip-

has done for the school and the students, there is no doubt she is qualified to receive one of the most prestigious awards in the county. Including Department Chair for Social Science, Teacher of the Year continued on page 8

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Visit Us Online: midvalleynews.com

El Monte debuted seven new local transit service buses, all of which use cleanburning compressed natural gas, at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 23, 2016 at the El Monte Metrolink Station. Photo courtesy

ment was approved by El Monte City Council during its Sept. 5 meeting, utilizing Measure M special transportation funds. The total cost for the

new equipment is $75,700. Installation of the cameras and recording equipment is expected to be complete by early November.

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Mid Valley News

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October 11, 2017

EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Chalk Talk

EMUHSD Increases Attendance Rates to an Impressive 97%

by Staff El Monte

El Monte Union high schools are promoting regular school attendance among the thousands of students they serve with imaginative and positive reward systems that build on school spirit, including field trips, raffles and friendly competitions.

As a result, District attendance rates have steadily climbed to nearly 100 percent, rising from 96.77 percent in 2013-14 to 97.29 percent in 2016-17, exceeding rates posted by surrounding school districts.

“Every day is Attendance Awareness Month in El Monte Union, and our schools are doing an excellent job of promoting school attendance and creating a school climate that empowers all students to be great achievers,” EMUHSD Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said.

Recognizing the importance of all students being in class every day, the El Monte Union High School District Board of Trustees designated September “School Attendance

Awareness Month,” reaffirming the District’s commitment to narrowing the achievement gap by working with families to reduce chronic absenteeism, defined as missing 10 percent or more of the school year, which can add up to two to three days a month.

The resolution is part of a nationwide attendance education campaign to underscore the critical role attendance plays in a student’s success.

“We know that attendance is directly tied to student success and we make every effort to ensure our students receive the resources and support to be in class ready to learn every day,” Zuniga said.

To promote attendance among students, not only in September, but year-round, schools across El Monte Union reward students with special events and reach out to families when absenteeism becomes chronic.

At Mountain View High, for example, posters promoting good attendance hang around school, weekly drawings are held and monthly cookouts are held for grade levels with the best attendance. At South

El Monte High, students with perfect attendance can win a free ticket to a dance, a front-of-the-line lunch pass or ice cream sundaes. El Monte High makes regular morning announcements on good attendance and holds friendly class competitions.

Arroyo High hosts a most improved

attendance lunch, raffles, ice cream socials and a monthly tablet give-aaway. Rosemead High School holds monthly attendance competitions and raffles, while Fernando R. Ledesma High issues Mustang gear for students with perfect attendance and gift cards to local vendors like Starbucks and In N Out. All El Monte Union schools also understand the importance of interventions for those with a pattern of chronic absenteeism, instituting support systems and working with families to address the situation.

Schools conduct one-on-one meetings, individual counseling, parent conferences and home visits, providing families resources, referrals and support. Workshops are also held for parents.

“Working hand in hand with our teachers, families and communities is essential to combatting chronic absenteeism and ensuring our students have a bright future ahead of them,” Zuniga. “We are proud to be at the forefront and look forward to the day we reach 100 percent attendance rates.”

El Monte Rosemead A Message from the Adult School Graduate Superintendent Serves Her Community

by Staff El Monte

Kimberly (Kimmi) Bond graduated from the El Monte-Rosemead Adult School High School Program in the summer of 2011.

As the graduation speaker for her class, Kimmi outlined the very difficult and tumultuous life she

had experienced prior to receiving her diploma.

Kimmi’s lifelong dream has always been to become a Paramedic.

Working as an EMT, she attempted to enroll in paramedic school, but was denied because she did not have her high school diploma. EM-RAS was Kimmi’s stepping stone.

After graduating, she enrolled at Mt San Antonio College and ultimately at the East Los Angeles College Fire Academy. Kimmi received her degree in Fire Technology June 6th of this year!

Due to Kimmi’s experience, enthusiasm, and involvement at school, the Fire Chief requested that Kimmi join his staff. Kimmi now teaches an emergency medical technician skills course and is an advisor to incoming cadets trying to join the fire academy.

Her next goal is to go back to paramedic school and graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Emergency Medical Services.

We have no doubt that Kimmi will further make EMRAS proud and soon become a paramedic!

Dr. Edward A. Zuniga the Superintendent of the El Monte Union School District.

I am a proud product of the El Monte Union High School District.

Having spent nearly my entire life as an El Monte resident and community member of this District, this is the place I developed the skills I needed to be successful as a student, teacher and administrator. Being appointed superintendent of this District one year ago was the fulfillment of a dream.

Every day, I have the opportunity to work with the most talented, diverse and dedicated family of educators.

Our sole purpose is to prepare our children to be lifelong learners, setting a foundation of excellence and providing our students with the tools

necessary for them to flourish in college and careers in the 21st century.

Our District is home to one of the oldest high schools in the San Gabriel Valley, as well as one of the youngest. We are proud of our centurylong academic history and the mark our schools continue to make on our communities.

The 2017-18 school year kicked off with a groundbreaking for El Monte High’s new stadium upgrade project, followed by a celebration of South El Monte High’s silver anniversary with a homecoming parade. Our District is also celebrating our attendance rates, which have reached an all-time high of nearly 100 percent.

These are major milestones for our District, and this is just the beginning.

Throughout the year, we will keep you informed on the academic successes and uplifting stories of El Monte Union students as they prepare for a journey that will take them to elite universities and into rewarding professions. Our students and teachers understand the challenges and are up to the task.

I invite you to visit the new District Facebook page and download our smartphone app to enhance your experience and connectedness with El Monte Union.

Thank you for your support, and we look forward to a tremendous 2017-18 school year full of student achievement and community engagement.

October 11, 2017

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Mid Valley News

EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Chalk Talk Helping Hands

by Yesenia Diaz, Staff Writer, Knights Banner

In Texas, many have suffered from Harvey and are looking for any help they can get. Ms. Sandra Jung, English Teacher, is now collecting money to help the victims of the Hurricane Harvey with their recovery from students who want to help the victims affected by this disaster. All of the money Ms. Jung collects will be going to the Red Cross Organization.

Ms. Jung was inspired to this when she found out celebrities, such as Kevin Hart, were challenging each other to donate. She also wanted to give students a chance to help the victims of Hurricane Harvey and is willing to continue donating for as long as the students of Arroyo want to. Ms. Jung is even selling old DVDs to students for $1 and donating

her earnings.

“I’m all inspired and thinking okay I don’t have $25,000 but I can put in my contribution. I can do my little part,”said Ms. Jung.

Hurricane Harvey was classified as a Category 4 hurricane, which was recorded to have winds up to about 132 mph. His roots can be traced back to a tropical wave in the African coast in early August.

He was classified a Category 4 hurricane when he made landfall in south-central Texas in late August.

By August 27, his winds slowed down to about 40 mph and poured about a year’s worth of rain in less than a week on Houston and most of southeastern Texas. On August 29, two flood-control reservoirs were breached and the majority of Houston had an increase in water levels.

According to Weather.com, Hurricane Harvey has broken all continental U.S. tropical cyclone rain records.

Harvey has also caused numerous small and brief tornadoes in Southeast Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and North Carolina. Harvey is one of the most prolific tornado producers for a tropical storm.

Eva Ruth Moravec, a reporter of the Washington Post, states that people’s livestock were also affected by the Hurricane. Thousands of animals that were found in the debris have been taken to independent shelters, including 45 potbellied pig, 985 horses, 563 cattle and 1,210 dogs and cats.

Mike Morath, Commissioner of the Texas Education Agency, states schools were also badly damaged because of Harvey. About 52 out of the

942 schools that were hit by the hurricane were catastrophically damaged and will not be able to reopen soon.

Texas officials have confirmed that about 82 people died because of the storm. Officials are still trying to determine how many other casualties there were.

The victims have lost a myriad of their belongings and are trying to get back on their feet. The students of Arroyo can help by going to Room 33 and donating or buying old DVDs from Ms. Jung, whose earnings will go to The Red Cross Organization.

Pub note: This article originally appeared in Knight’s Banner: The Student News Site of Arroyo High School and is reprinted with permission from Arroyo High School and the El Monte Union High School District.

South El Monte High Celebrates 25 Year Milestone

by Staff Writer El Monte

Hundreds of South El Monte High School students, families, staff and community members gathered at Eagle Stadium to commemorate the school’s 25th anniversary on Sept. 22 – a milestone that included a parade through the streets of the city, visual and performing arts students strutting to the beat of the band, a firework show and a victorious homecoming game to top the night off.

“Although this school is young, we are proud of the steady progress it has made, the stellar students it has produced and the history it continues to make as the city of South El Monte’s only high school,” Principal Dr. Amy Avina said. “It is great to see the community supporting our students as they work to achieve academic and personal excellence every day, and we expect that success to continue for generations to come.”

Led by the school’s drill team, cheer squad, color guard and band, the parade featured South El Monte High staff who opened the school 25 years ago, members from the El Monte Union Board of Trustees, dignitaries from the cities of El Monte and South El Monte, and SEMHS parents. The

South El Monte High School celebrated its 25th anniversary with a parade and homecoming game on Sept. 22. Pictured are Assistant Principal of Student Affairs Angelica De La Rosa, left, Principal Dr. Amy Avina, the Eagle mascot, Assistant Principal of Student Services Olga Lopez and Assistant Principal of Instruction Jorge Morales. Courtesy photo

parade also featured alums Raymundo Monge, a Latino pop star, and Joseph “Jojo” Diaz, Jr., a professional boxer who served as grand marshal.

Monge performed the National Anthem before kickoff, followed by a halftime performance filled with fireworks and glamour as the homecoming king and queen were crowned.

South El Monte’s varsity football team, bolstered by the waving and cheering crowds at the homecoming game, won 35-8 against Mountain View High.

“This is a tremendous and welldeserved celebration for South El Monte High School’s administrators and team of educators, who work every day to ensure that our students

learn the foundational skills to be the leaders of tomorrow,” El Monte Union High School District Board of Trustees President Carlos G. Salcedo said. “While not as historically established as our other schools, South El Monte High and its students have left an imprint on this community, and they have a growing legacy that makes us proud.”

Opened in September 1992, South El Monte High School is the District’s newest comprehensive high school, serving as a community staple in providing an academically rigorous core curriculum and competitive athletic programs in a safe, welcoming environment.

At SEMHS, every student is provided with opportunities to succeed

South El Monte High School students celebrate the football team’s 35-8 victory against Mountain View High School.

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El Monte High School staff and students donated $1503 in three days for the Hurricane Relief Fund. Courtesy photo

through a rich variety of academic courses and extra-curricular activities. South El Monte High promotes a supportive and challenging environment through several Advanced Placement classes, including U.S. and world history, calculus, biology, chemistry, English literature and Spanish literature.

College and career preparatory electives such as AVID and Project Lead the Way ensure that students receive the academic and personal skills necessary to achieve in high school, higher education and the workforce.

Students can also participate in CIF athletics, Future Business Leaders of America and a variety of other clubs on campus to create a well-rounded educational experience.

“It is so wonderful to see past, present and future generations of South El Monte High School students and parents gather to celebrate 25 years of achievements, successes and excellence,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “We look forward to seeing this school grow, its programs blossom and its students thrive with the support and guidance of our dedicated teachers and staff.”

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Mid Valley News

October 11, 2017

Mid Valley Sports

South El Monte vs Arroyo: Unforgettable Game

by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer El Monte

The Arroyo Knights defeated the South El Monte Eagles 14-13 in a game that will be remembered as a classic. Both teams came into this football game 6-0 in what was a much anticipated game in the Mission Valley League after seeing the preseason forms of these two teams.

The game started out as a defensive battle with each team going three and out twice to start this game. Arroyo broke through first with a 5-yard rushing TD from Running Back Steven Ocariz who had a good game rushing for 78 yards. The Eagles had a good drive to end the 1st quarter with Running Back Sal Tovar leading the way, Tovar rushed for over 100 yards in this game. The Knights held the Eagles to a field goal and it was 7-3 at the end of the 1st quarter.

The 2nd quarter did produce much action, it just was a defensive struggle

throughout the quarter. The Knights Quarterback Ernesto Camacho did not have the game that we are accustomed to seeing, he was overthrowing the majority of passes. Camacho ended up going 10 for 20 in completion attempts and only had 99 yards passing. The score remained 7-3 at half.

In the 3rd quarter the Eagles were able to score a huge touchdown, a 50 yard punt return touchdown by Jarvis Godinez. It was an amazing 50 yard run where Godinez was able to find a seam in the special teams and he broke off running up the right sideline and nobody was able to stop him.

They Eagles lead 10-7 and things were going good when the defense forced the 4th consecutive Knights three and out. Then disaster struck, the Knights punted the ball and it was the near the 19 yard line when Godinez had the ball deflect of his arm and Carlos Hernandez of the Knights re-

Lakers and Clippers Season Preview

by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer National

The NBA season will kick off on October 17th, 10 days earlier than usual since the NBA will try to alleviate the already difficult 82-game schedule with the season starting earlier and having less back to back games. The Lakers and Clippers will open the season by playing each other on October 19th on a TNT nationally televised game. It should be a very interesting game with all the new faces that each team has this season.

The Los Angeles Lakers are currently in a rebuilding process and this will most likely be another difficult season. The Lakers drafted Lonzo Ball out of UCLA, 2nd overall in the 2017 NBA Draft, The team chose to give up D’Angelo Russell after just two seasons, trading him and Timofey Mozgov to the Brooklyn Nets for Brook Lopez. That trade has signified that the team is going to rely on Ball to carry this team and they will rebuild around him and Brandon Ingram, who was a rookie last season but provided a bright spot for this team.

The Lakers added Kentavious Caldwell-Pope via free agency so he should provide some much needed defense in the backcourt. Lopez can be a good addition if he stays healthy and Kyle Kuzma who was drafted 27th overall out of Utah has proved to be a steal in this draft, he has played exceptional in the preseason and in the summer league. The Lakers most likely will not make the playoffs especially in the ultra-competitive

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Western Conference but we will see if the team can at least 30 games, something they haven’t done since the 2012-2013 season when they last made the playoffs.

The Clippers made a huge splash in the offseason when they traded Chris Paul away to the Houston Rockets for seven players. The team also did not resign J.J. Redick and traded Jamal Crawford for Danilo Gallinari. They

covered the ball at the 19-yard line of the Eagles. The crowd went wild but it quickly went quiet as Knight Kicker Jesse Ortiz missed the field goal that would have tied it. The score was 10-7 in favor of the Eagles at the end of the 3rd quarter and they were 12 minutes away of handing the Knights their first conference loss in 3 years.

The Eagles had a great drive to start the 4th quarter but were unable to convert on a big 3rd and Goal so they had to settle for a Field Goal.

The score was 13-7 and the Knights needed a touchdown to win the game.

Camacho threw an interception at his own 22 yard line that was caught by Sal Tovar who was also playing free safety and things could not get worse for the Knights. The Eagles did not take advantage though, a holding call and a big sack from Aaron Campos pushed the Eagles back to their own 47 yard line and they had to punt to Knights. Camacho stormed back

El Monte’s Lions Roar over Marshall’s Eagles

by Devette Johnson, Contributing Writer El Monte / Pasadena

El Monte girls’ volleyball was very entertaining this past Friday, October 6th. The energy in the air was electric. The girl’s were the visitor at Marshall Fundamental High School, in Pasadena. Both teams warmed up with sets, hits and passes to each other to help get the blood flowing

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were able to resign Blake Griffin to a very lucrative contract and the team is going to rebuild the team around him. They got Patrick Beverly and Lou Williams in the Paul trade and they should be important players for this team. The Clippers also signed 30 year-old Point Guard Milos Teodosic from Serbia who played very well in the preseason, getting 15 assists in his first two games. If Teodosic can be a similar playmaker like Paul this team can be quite competitive.

The way the starting five looks for this team barring injury is Rivers at PG, Beverly at OG, Gallinari at SF, Griffin at PF and Jordan at C. The team may switch Rivers out depending of Teodosic can develop and offensive game. The Clippers should be a playoff team, maybe 7th or 8th seed if they can stay healthy and the play good defense. The Clippers lost their team leader in Paul but they have made up for it with some great pickups.

with his offensive carrying them on the most important drive of the season all the way into Eagles territory.

He then ran in the 2 yard touchdown and Ortiz made a big extra point to give the Knights the 14-13 lead. The Knights then went for an onside kick just to prevent the Eagle from getting the ball back and it worked as Israel Bernal recovered the ball at the Eagles 25 yard line. The Knights then tried a field goal and Ortiz missed his second of the game and the Eagles just needed a field goal to win the game with 45 seconds to go in the game. The Eagle never converted a first down on that final drive and the Knights defense them helped secure this huge win.

The Knights defense showed why defense wins championships and that this team isn’t going anywhere and will most likely win the Mission Valley League title for the 3rd consecutive season.

Courtesy photos by D. Johnson / MVMC

and the excitement did not stop there.

The chatter began on the bench of El Monte’s Lioness and did not let up until the end of the last game. It was tight, both teams traded games in the beginning but as time went by they tied it up with 2 games apiece.

It came down to the last game, to final set points, which El Monte rallied from behind to win the final game.

They won 3 out of 5 games for the victory over Marshall’s Eagles.

It’s Time To Shine: Baseball’s March to the Fall Classic

by Liz Charre, Staff Writer National

After two incredible Wild Card games to begin the post-season, eight Teams are left standing for a shot at the World Series - the New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians, Boston Red Sox, Houston Astros, Washington Nationals, Chicago Cubs, Arizona Diamondbacks, and the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The post-season begins with the Houston Astros hosting the Boston Red Sox and New York visiting Cleveland. Jose Altuve, Houston Astros second baseman, hit three home runs and tied an MLB postseason record. Altuve is only the 10th player in MLB history to hit three home runs in

a postseason game adding his name to a list that includes Babe Ruth, Reggie Jackson, and Albert Pujols.

Altuve’s home runs were hit in the first, fifth, and seventh inning and it was more than enough to win the game as the Astros defeated the Red Sox 8-2. After another demonstration of great hitting and great pitching, the Astros beat the Red Sox 8-1 the Astros now have a commanding 2-0 lead.

Cleveland took game one 4-0 when the bats of the Bronx Bombers fell asleep. In game two, the Yankees bullpen apparently forgot how to pitch and blew an 8-3 lead when the Indians rallied to defeat the Yankees Fall Classic continued on page 8

October 11, 2017

Webb's Rules

PEOPLE

by Eugene R. Webb

People are a strange breed;

And in every country people can be found.

On each other they feed.

God created people of all kinds; Given them each their own mind.

There are people who love and those who hate; Some people who come early, others come late.

Some people are dumb and others even dumber; Most people march to their own drummer.

There are some people who we can trust;

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Mid Valley News

There are no two people that are alike; You’ll find them in a car, walking or on a bike.

People are as different as night and day; We don’t have the same fingerprints or DNA. There’s some wonderful people in every race; Just a different color and a different face.

Others to stay away from is a must.

But people I would hate to live without;

But people are a lot of fun to be around;

Loving and interacting is what living is about.

IS NOW ON TWITTER! @midvalley_news

Also, look out for a 8th Annual El section Monte special sports Dia de coming soon.

Downtown El Monte Business Association presents

Los Muertos Day of the Dead Family Festival

Saturday October 21, 2017 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm

at The Valley Mall (between Santa Anita Avenue and Tyler Avenue)

FREE Admission • 2 Stages of Continuous Entertainment • Health & Wellness Fair Children’s Area (face painting, mask making & fridge-art) • Bouncers • Ballet Folklorico • Mariachis FOOD • Art Exhibit • Day of the Dead Vendors • Children’s Raffle: Tickets to Disneyland

fun for the Whole Family!

SPONSORED BY:

For more information. Vendors and volunteers email to: elmontedod@yahoo.com

Cracker Barrel “Sunday Tea” By: Mike McClure El Monte

…so the other day I attended the El Monte Historical Society Quarterly Tea at the museum. Nice crowd besides the current board members there were several past presidents and officers of the organization in attendance. Tess and Henry Velasco, Jeanie McKinnis, Eva Stolz just to name a few. There was one interesting guest, Prescott Cogswell, whose father the street is named after. Their family were walnut growers here back in the 1880’s. Current President Cathi Eredia opened with a brief welcome and Richard Thomas got up to act as the M.C. The Mayor gave a presentation about the issue locally, Mayor Pro Tem Jerry Velasco talked about some of his ideas to strengthen the city’s commitment to the arts and Lt. Ben Lowry gave some updates about what the Police Department was doing (he made it clear that although he supports the “Cops with Coffee” program he doesn’t drink coffee). Mike Gomez, famed actor, was there. Mike just finished his run with Paul Rodriguez in the play “The Pitch” and it was great to see him.

Mary Louise Labrucherie was also there. Dr. Labrucherie is the Superintendent of the Valle Lindo School District and it is my experience that whenever you have a group like this together there is always an interest in how the next generation is doing and getting a chance to talk with the Superintendent reassured us that our kids are in good hands. In fact, I recently saw a figure that the attendance rate at EMUHSD is up to 97% - it was only a few years ago that breaking 90% was a goal. I am sure that if you were to ask Superintendent Zuniga he would agree that it takes the entire education system working together to motivate the students to achieve that kind of attendance number. The average citizen probably doesn’t realize how important it is or how much state and federal funds are based on enrollment figures and how much it means to local businesses, law enforcement, everyone to have our kids in school, learning what it takes to be productive, prosperous citizens. Thank you all for what you are doing.

Oh, the cookies and punch were good to!

Follow us @ MidValleyNews

“Working Overtime”

Lee Harvey Oswald or Planet X?

by Dick James El Monte I was sitting in the coffee shop at the Stardust Hotel in Las Vegas with Betty Van Orden and Bill Fagazy. Bill was the owner of Fagazy Travel and Betty was his Director of Marketing.

Bill and Betty had flown in from New York and Fagazy Travel was the exclusive travel company for the Stardust Hotel and I ran the Beverly Hills office.

We were in Las Vegas for a meeting with the owner of the hotel. One of the receptionists ran into the coffee shop and announced, “President Kennedy has just been shot!” Betty’s first reaction was to say,” Sharon, if you are making that up you are fired”.

I’ve often wondered why Betty would think that someone would make up something like that but over the years

I have found that it is a common reaction to hearing about some tragedy.

Over the next couple of days, we learned that JFK’s killer was Lee Harvey Oswald and it was hard to believe that someone so apparently insignificant could murder the President of the United States of America so we made up conspiracy plots and to this day there are literally millions of people who think it was the CIA or the Mob or something bigger than just one loser.

For regular readers of this column, you know it is intended for my buddies and pals, the “seasoned citizens”, and many of you are justified in thinking that the world is “going to hell in a handbasket”. We read about ISIS cutting off people’s heads, or it seems like every week there is another disaster; earthquakes, hurricanes or floods in Houston, Mexico City, Miami, San Juan it never seems to end. Now this guy in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay Hotel another insignificant loser, killing all those people.

What’s going on?

Talk radio has been a buzz lately about the coming appearance of Planet X, that’s the planet that supposedly comes by every 3,500 years to wreak havoc on us and with all that has been going on lately it is tempting to believe that there is some mysterious force beyond our control causWorking Overtime continued on page 8

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Mid Valley News

October 11, 2017

Entertainment

Queen Mary’s 2017 Dark Harbor Nights

By Devette Johnson and Glen Maldonado, Contributing Writer National

We were invited to test our senses at this years’ Queen Mary Dark Harbor Nights. Any time you are in a small space, in the dark, low light and strange sounds, your mind begins to play tricks on you. This year that statement still held true and we were even challenged to crawl on all fours. There were more mazes inside the Queen Mary this year. To name a few, Lullaby, Soulmate, B340 and finally the newest edition to this years line up was the Feast.

The Feast maze featured the ship’s chef and all his delectable dishes.

When you walk through the maze, there plates of brains, arms, fingers, and feet are sitting at serving stations and tables for you to view. Waiters are walking around the maze hoping

to help you or serve you as the main dish. The maze keeps you guessing because you are climbing stairs and then prepare yourself to crawl on all fours into a oven. Yes, an oven, which leads you to enter into the head chef’s oven. The sides of the oven’s walls look like red hot broiling rods.

The smell play into the big scare factor because you are being prep to be the main course or preparing to run for your life. There are also many monsters that look like the half dead throughout the maze. Very entertaining and scary.

One of our favorite mazes was Soulmate. The maze is about Graceful Gale, who looses her mate and she begins to look for suitable replacement from all the new visitors

Courtesy photos by D. Johnson / MVMC

Courtesy photos by D. Johnson / MVMC

Courtesy photos by D. Johnson / MVMC

to her maze. Her looks seduces you which makes you stay aboard forever. What do we mean by forever, she murders her new soulmate, which is you. As the maze begins you see her before as a innocent woman onboard the Queen Mary and as you progress through the maze she becomes determined with finding a new mate and begins absorbing the souls of the women who are trapped on the Queen Mary. Through out the maze we see many of her victims. Unfortunately, the captain also fell to her seductive spell. We also see a giant heart hang in one of dark rooms and it appears to be alive. We don’t know if it this was supposed to represent the ship’s heart but it was very scary. The maze delivered and scared the ship out of us.

We could talk about the other mazes but we don’t want to ruin your

fun or scare. Another notable maze to visit was one of the classics, Lullaby. Scary Mary is just looking for her next playmate. This maze still has the thrill and scary features that keeps you coming back for more. Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor Night is ready to scare you and entertain you as well.

They have a few packages to consider for admission, from general admission tickets start at just $24 online.

Fast Fright, VIP and the Ultimate Scream Experience are available.

There are parking packages as well, check online for the pricing. For less than $30 you can have a great time and definitely be scared all night long with all the other attractions, food, drinks, music and shows.

For more information check out their website: www.queenmary.com

DEMBA Celebrates the 8th Annual Day of the Dead Family Festival

by Staff Writer El Monte

Experience a 6000-year-old tradition when the Downtown El Monte Business Association (DEMBA) celebrates Day of the Dead on Saturday, October 21 with a festive and colorful family-centered event along the Historical Downtown District on Valley Mall.

Sponsored and in Partnership with the City of El Monte, this FREE event follows the Children’s Day Parade and will showcase a beautiful community altar titled, “La Familia”. The altar will be dedicated to loved ones,

who shape our community. Foothill Transit, also a Sponsor, will have a unique altar featuring their Foothill Transit mini bus which will be decorated to honor of La Familia. In addition, Northgate Markets will have a Beautiful Oaxacan altar created in Oaxacan tradition.

Day of the Dead is a tradition that has been celebrated for over 6000 years and is based on strong family ties and respect for generations passed.

Over 4000 people are expected to turn out for the Day of the Dead Celebration. The event will begin with a festive procession featuring Aztec

dancers blessing the pathway followed by our lead ‘Catrina’. There will be stages of LIVE entertainment throughout the day and will include Ballet Folklorico, Mariachi, a DJ and a ‘Catrina’ fashion show presented

by Paradise Bridal & Quinceanera magazine.

On the day of the event, Valley Mall will be transformed into “Calle de Courtesy photos las Flores”; décor will be placed on lampposts by students from El Monte win tickets to Disneyland. A special Union High School District. Along “passport” will encourage families to with the Children’s Area, “make & visit Vendor and Sponsor booths. The take” crafts, face painting and bounce event promises to be inclusive of all house; young participants, under DEMBA continued on page 8 age 12, will have an opportunity to

New El Monte State-of-the-Art Dial-a-Ride Vehicles Offer Greater Convenience, Comfort

by Staff Writer El Monte

The City of El Monte is improving its Dial-a-Ride services with the purchase of six new state-of-the-art vehicles designed for senior and disabled residents. All vehicles feature wheelchair accessible ramps and provide a roomy interior to accommodate passengers comfortably during transportation throughout the City and beyond.

The six new vehicles include five Mobility Ventures MV1-DX vans and one Starcraft Allstar Ford E-450.

All vehicles run on compressed natural gas, which emits fewer harmful emissions than gasoline.

The new vehicles were purchased on July 1, 2017 for a total of $359,002 using special transportation Proposition C Local Return funds. All six

Courtesy photos

vehicles replaced the City’s old vans and buses for the program.

The City’s Dial-A-Ride program provides residents with economical

in-town transportation for 50 cents each way, out-of-town transportation Dial A Ride continued on page 8

October 11, 2017

Page 7

Mid Valley News

into Summer Fun O SS S W CCRRO WO O RRDD

Sudoku

Crossword Puzzle solution in issue 10.25.17

Solution for Sudoku in issue 10.25.17

Horoscope

CHILDREN’S BOOKS ACROSS 1. West African religious practice 6. J. Edgar Hoover’s org.

9. Decked out 13. *Mickey Mouse’s pet in books and cartoons 14. Young newt 15. Certain rib quality 16. Asian goat antelope 17. American Gas Association 18. Metrical units in poetry 19. *Story of Auggie Pullman, boy with a rare disease 21. Captain’s record 23. Thanksgiving serving 24. Actor MacLachlan 25. Aardvark’s morsel 28. Shape with an ax 30. Battlefield ID 35. Displeasure on one’s face 37. High part of day 39. Nigerian money 40. ____ of Man 41. Wooden pin 43. Swarm like bees 44. Paparazzi’s target 46. *Children’s author ____ Pennypacker 47. Dial in on a radio 48. Attractive to look at 50. High in decibels 52. “Swan Lake” step 53. Virginia folk dance 55. Future fish 57. *”The ____ Tollbooth” 61. *Mary Lennox’s secret spot 64. *Young Montague 65. O in IOU 67. Writers’ inspirations 69. Gibson garnish 70. ____ Aviv 71. PayPal money 72. *”Where the Red ____ Grows” 73. *Final word of a children’s story?

74. Buy second-hand

DOWN 1. Goddess Rhea, to Romans 2. *”he ____ the house down.”

3. Never replaced the UK’s pound sterling 4. Lack of muscle tension 5. Carriage on top of elephant 6. Robert De Niro’s “Cape ____” 7. *Roald Dahl’s acronym 8. Europe’s “boot” 9. Dungeness, e.g.

10. Car with a bar 11. Pulpit 12. Writing spot?

15. *Don’t let it drive the bus!

20. Correct 22. Antiquated 24. ____-it-____ 25. *Rabbit hole traveler 26. Offensively curious 27. Ballerina’s skirt fabric 29. Courts 31. General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 32. Secure with ropes 33. Rome’s Colosseum 34. *Quarter Quell 36. Snorkeling site 38. Infamous Roman Emperor 42. *”Little House on the Prairie” protagonist 45. “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” (2005) movie director 49. “War and Peace” author 51. Type of roof window 54. Portray emotion 56. Draw out a conclusion 57. Faculty member, for short 58. Sharpen 59. Arabian chieftain 60. Ne 61. Fix a horse 62. Biblical twin 63. Monster’s loch 66. Skin cyst 68. Anything female

Aries March 21st – April 19th

go for now. They could reverse their stance by the weekend.

Getting someone to see things your way may not be easy at the start of the week unless you can put yourself in their shoes. While it’s possible to compromise, this might seem like a stretch too far unless you can find a very good reason for doing it. The good news is that lucky Jupiter enters your sector of shared resources and transformation on Tuesday, boosting opportunities regarding business and enhancing your income.

Libra

Taurus

Oct 23rd – Nov 21st

April 20th – May 20th

You could be your own worst enemy at the start of the week, especially if you’re holding back from an opportunity that would be good for you. However, talking about your feelings with another might help if it allows you to understand where you’re going wrong. As optimistic Jupiter moves into your sector of relating, this expansive influence is positive for all your business or personal relationships.

Gemini May 21st – June 20th

You might be putting too much pressure on yourself, which could get in the way of accomplishing something that should be easy. Give yourself a few days’ grace and you may find it isn’t as complicated as you thought. Key news this week is that lucky Jupiter moves into Scorpio and your health and wellness sector and stays for approximately one year.

Cancer June 21st – July 22nd

With expansive Jupiter entering your leisure sector on Tuesday, the coming year could see you eager to get out and enjoy life. If you’ve been very busy, the cosmos urges you to make more time for yourself to unwind and get involved in those things you love to do most.

Romance may come knocking at your door, too.

Leo July 23rd – Aug 22nd

While disagreements are possible over this week, try not to let them spoil what could be a productive time. Use such opportunities to engage in heart-to-heart discussions and find out what you have in common and how you might work together. Much can be achieved through negotiation.

Virgo Aug 23rd – Sept 22nd

You might find yourself trying to persuade a family member to go along with your way of thinking. However, he or she could prove very determined, especially around midweek. Let it

Sept 23rd – Oct 22nd

Your negotiating skills may be needed this week, especially if you are pitted against the stubborn desires of another. Constructive conversation can do a lot more for you than overt persuasion. You may be pleased with the way things go, too.

Scorpio Whatever tensions seem to be present in your life, the good news is that positive Jupiter enters your sign on Tuesday for a yearlong stay. This can enhance your confidence and bring lively opportunities to help you fulfill your dreams.

Regarding any conflicts you may face, handle them with grace and goodwill and you’ll find that they can be resolved in a way that works for everyone.

Sagittarius Nov 22nd – Dec 21st

With adventurous, lively Jupiter, your personal planet, changing signs this week, you may notice a shift in your focus. It moves into your spiritual zone for a twelve-month stay to encourage you to release those limitations and live to your fullest potential. This can be a time when a coach or mentor has a profound effect on you, helping you soar to new heights.

Capricorn Dec 22nd – Jan 19th

You could clash with someone in authority early in the week. This is due to aspects that will last a few days, so it would be wise to handle this with care rather than come across as too intense. A diplomatic touch can help you find a positive solution.

Aquarius Jan 20th – Feb 18th

Could the coming year be the one in which you make a big splash? With expansive Jupiter entering your sector of career and ambition on Tuesday, anything is possible. This week marks the start of a very positive phase when the sky’s the limit. Over the coming days, however, you might have to deal with some stubborn people.

Pisces Feb 19th – March 20th

If a certain friend appears stubbornly stuck in their ways, it could cause a clash of views and values unless you can be willing to have a heart-to-heart chat. On another note, someone closer to you might disagree about a goal or ambition, and this may also need careful handling.

It can work out well with the right approach.

Page 8

Mid Valley News

Teacher of the Year continued from page 1

being a member of the School Site Council, and a Union Representative, she brings research based strategies and curriculum as an AVID coordinator.

This past year, Ms. Witt was a driving force in the new bell schedule and Shields-Up program, a new 24-minute period added to every student’s schedule designed to reward students for their hard work and support students when they struggle.

Courtesy Photo

Follow us @ MidValleyNews

The Mid Valley News is published Bi - weekly on Thursday by Mid Valley Media Center, LLC Business and Editorial Offices are located at: 11401 E. Valley Blvd.

Masterson Building, Suite 208

El Monte, California 91731 (626) 443-1753 FAX (626) 443-2245 Display Advertising: midvalleynewssgv@gmail.com Publisher/ Mid Valley Media Center Editor/ Feature Writer: Staff Asst. Editor/Graphic Designer/Social Media / Photographer: Devette Johnson Community Development Liaison: Mike McClure Media Relations Specialist: Staff

Sports Editor: Staff

Contributing Writers Glen Maldonado Andy Michaels Devette Johnson Michael McClure Mike Nelson Liz Charre

October 11, 2017

In a statement released to The Mid Valley News, Principal Gonzales – Hernandez explains “The hours she dedicates to her students and the classroom are countless. Her classroom reflects the high expectations she has for her students. She sets the tone for student learning and uses a variety of teaching strategies such as the use of the google classroom.” She continues” Ms. Witt’s dedication to Arroyo’s students is an indication of her hard work, commitment, dedication and potential to work in any situation and/or challenge she encounters.

Los Angeles County’s top 16 public school teachers for this academic year were presented by County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Debra Duardo during the annual Teachers of the Year banquet held Sept. 29.

The judging panels chose the top 16 to represent the profession’s “best of the best” from among the 72,000 Los Angeles County teachers.

Working Overtime continued from page 5

ing all of this, but alas it is like one of the great thinkers of the sixty’s (Rod McKuen I think) wisely said, ”stuff happens…only I don’t think he really used the word “stuff”.

Yes, insignificant men can kill a President or hole up in a hotel and randomly shoot innocent. If you live on the Pacific Rim you will experience earthquakes and if you live along the Gulf of Mexico you will get hurricanes. It is not Planet X - it is life.

Continued from page 4 For all my buddie and pals who think that the world is “going to hell in extra innings. The series may be in a handbasket”- take heart and keep over by the time this article goes to your head up! Read about the students print.

The National League division at El Monte H.S. who on their own have been raising money for disaster series began on Friday, October 6th relief or about Arroyo High School’s with the Chicago Cubs shutting out “Teacher of the Year” who has dedi- the Washington Nationals 3-0 and the Arizona Diamondbacks losing to the cated her life to helping her students.

There are plenty of stories about Los Angeles Dodgers 9-5 at Chavez significant people helping others to Ravine despite ace Klayton Kershaw become significant that we don’t have giving up four home runs.

On Saturday, the Nationals came to let the losers define us and for gosh back and beat the Cubs 6-3 with a sake stop worrying about Planet X. huge three run home run by Ryan Zimmerman in the bottom of the

Fall Classic

DEMBA

Continued from page 6

ages and will feature a Market place sponsored by Northgate Markets and a Health & Wellness Fair.

Come experience the traditions and culture of this family friendly event where the past will be revisited and the Joy of Life celebrated throughout the day.

Dial A Ride continued from page 6

for medical appointments (5-mile radius) for $1 each way and no charge for personal care attendants traveling with the resident. Residents can also pre-register and receive identifi-

Sudoku Solution for 9.27.17

eighth inning. The series is tied at one game apiece, and will continue in Chicago Monday and Tuesday.

The Dodgers now have a commanding two game lead as the series move to the desert after Yasiel Puig had multiple hits and multiple bat flips the Dodgers pounded the Diamondbacks and won the game 8-5.

The postseason will continue through next week and will have the championship series games beginning on Friday, October 13 with the American League Championship series followed by the National League on Saturday. At this point, any team could have a chance of winning the World Series. cation cards for the program for additional convenience.

For more information about the City of El Monte’s Dial-a-Ride program, call the City’s transportation services division at (626) 580-2217 from 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

Crossword Solution for 9.27.17

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