Mid Valley News 12.27.17 Vol.# 54 Issue# 24

Sports Girls’ and Boys Soccer,

Education Chalk Talk, page 2 - 3

page 4

Vol. 54, No. 24

Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966

December 27, 2017

Honor and Recognition as Board Installs New Members

by Staff, Contributing Writer El Monte

Shortly before 5:30 pm on the 13th day of December, the Board of Trustees filed into the Board Room of the Union High School District, sat down, and Board President Carlos Salcedo called the meeting to order.

The air was filled with energy as was evident by the shuffling of feet and shifting in seats by members of the community in attendance. Some were happy, some were disappointed, but all were filled with hope for the future of all seven schools in the El

Monte Union High School District.

A couple of cleared throats and the Meeting of the Board of Trustees recognizing the accomplishments of outgoing board members and swearing in of new board members began.

Superintendent Dr. Zuniga, as Secretary of the Board, began by thank-

ing all who attended and expressed da Solis, Assemblywoman, Blanca his appreciation of the community Rubio, El Monte City Mayor Andre then moved on to recognizing outgoQuintero and Council Members Vicing member of the Board and the outtoria Martinez and Jerry Velasco. going President.

The most emotion was reserved Certificates of Recognition were for the recognition Outgoing Board presented to all three outgoing memMember Esthela Torres de Siegrist bers by Dr. Zuniga, Supervisor Hil- New Board Members continued on page 8

Local Businesswoman Honored for Women’s Entrepreneurship Day

by Staff Writer El Monte

The first Women’s Entrepreneurship Day was held on November 19, 2014. It was described by Fortune Magazine as “a global movement to celebrate and support female founders” and Forbes Magazine wrote that the intention was to “mobilize a global network of female business owners, entrepreneurs and change makers

who support and empower this community of women entrepreneurs and their businesses.”

On December 13, acknowledging her accomplishments and efforts throughout the Los Angeles Community, local businesswoman Lucy J Lin was presented a Certificate of Recognition from Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Ms. Lin is the President of Absolute Security International, Inc., a licensed

Local Businesswoman Honored continued on page 8

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Mid Valley News

December 27, 2017

EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Chalk Talk

by Staff Writer El Monte

Over his 11-year teaching career, South El Monte High School English teacher Cesar Castellanos has dedicated his efforts to helping students in and out of the classroom, offering them college readiness and academic support, organizing club fundraisers and coaching journalism and drama students in their respective crafts.

Castellanos, a Rosemead High School graduate, has never wavered from his goal of empowering students and instilling in them the belief that they can achieve anything they set their minds to.

“I want my students to gain a sense of hard work and for them to learn that it takes hard work to go anywhere – whether it’s working at a newspaper or getting into college,” Castellanos said. “I think when we invest time and effort into our students’ lives, we are showing them that they can do anything.”

Castellanos is one of three area teachers to be honored on Thursday, Dec. 14 with the Bobby Salcedo Esperanza Award at the 14th annual Tamalada, a scholarship fundraising event hosted by the El Monte Coalition of Latino Professionals and

South El Monte High Teacher Honored with 2017 Bobby Salcedo Esperanza Award the El Monte Promise Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to working with parents, school districts and community groups to cultivate a college-going culture in El Monte.

“I was very surprised to win the award, but it was a very sentimental moment for me,” Castellanos said.

The award is named for Roberto “Bobby” Salcedo, a respected El Monte Union educator who graduated from Mountain View High School in 1994, taught at South El Monte High School, and served as an administrator at South El Monte, Mountain View and El Monte high schools. He served on the El Monte City School District Board of Education at the time of his untimely death in 2009.

The honor is given to outstanding educators who exemplify Salcedo’s tireless commitment to education, including mentoring students facing hardship and inspiring them to pursue a college education.

“Bobby was a big part of our community and all of the teachers really loved him, so I’ve had dozens of teachers congratulating me on receiving this honor,” Castellanos said.

“There is no greater compliment.”

Castellanos, who has been a member of the El Monte Union family since 2011, taught at El Monte High School for two years before moving to South El Monte High School, where he teaches English and journalism and serves as the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) site coordinator.

South El Monte High School teacher Cesar Castellanos A respected teach- was honored with the 2017 Bobby Salcedo Esperanza er in the classroom, Award at the El Monte Promise Foundation’s 14th annual Castellanos encour- Tamalada fundraiser on Dec. 14. Castellanos, a Rosemead ages his AVID stu- High School graduate and has been recognized for his tireefforts to ensure students believe in themselves and dents to get excited less succeed. Courtesy photo about attending college by scheduling Castellanos and the contributions he’s field trips to campuses such as Stanmade to the El Monte Union commuford University, UC Berkeley and UC nity as a former alum and dedicated Santa Cruz. He co-advises the Film teacher who makes a difference in the Production club and advises the staff very classrooms where he learned as of the school newspaper, the Eagle’s a student,” Superintendent Dr. EdNest.

“We are extremely proud of Mr. Esperanza Award continued on page 3

The Serious Case of Senioritis

Fernando Ledesma High Hosts Cash For College

by Joanne Quach, Editor-in-Chief, Knight’s Banner El Monte

Every year around November-December a horrendous disease sweeps all high schools: Senioritis.

According to Urban Dictionary, Senioritis is a crippling disease that affects millions of high school seniors.

Symptoms include: laziness, procrastination, lack of studying, excessive wear of sweats and a generally dismissive attitude. After all- there’s nothing you can do now to better your chance in college admissions.

Once college applications are submitted, many seniors sigh in relief for all the blood, sweat and tears they put into the last three months are over.

Now they can take a break from the mind-boggling brainstorming, sleepless nights and one too many essay revisions.

“It took me a week to write my personal statements cause I kind of pushed it off to Thanksgiving week.

But I had to revise my essay like ten times, I kept reading it over and over again. I would erase it and then rewrite it. For each question I wrote four different draft,” said Shan Xiao, 12.

While college applications are submitted, Seniors must remain focused getting no grades lower than a D or F. The colleges you applied to in the fall will be able to see your end-of-theyear transcript and have the ability to withdraw their acceptance.

by Staff El Monte

The only cure available to this inevitable illness: graduation. With graduation being only 5 months away, it is ideal to make the most of what they have left. Some would say to make their final year the best they want spend our last semester making memories with friends before they separate ways- But just like a raceyou have to finish strong.

“I just want to end things with a ‘bang’. I would say especially with good memories,” says Allison Price, 12.

Senior year, the last year of high school. While the year may feel like a drag to some, it can also feel like it is going too fast. Hang in there Seniors, you only have one lap left!

Pub note: This article originally appeared in the November 13th edition of 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. This article has been edited due to space restraints.

Diversity and culture are among the greatest strengths of The El Monte Union High School District, regardless of background, political views, or immigration status and the District is working everyday to assure families and the community that schools remain a welcome, inclusive, and safe learning environment for all students.

Resolution No. 07-17/18 affirmed the Board of Trustees commitment to supporting students and families who may be working about their education and their immigration status. The Board further expressed their commitment to continue serving as a safe zone for all students who provide assistance or resources for those threatened by immigration enforcement.

In 2012, President Barack Obama issued an Executive Order that gave certain undocumented immigrants brought to the United States by their parents as a child and entered before their 16th birthday relief from deportations. These are commonly referred to as “Dreamers”.

The purpose of the relief is to provide the ability for families and Dreamers to live, work, and study in the United States for a period of two years and can be renewed for an ad-

ditional two years. It is unknown at the time of this writing how many renewals are allowed. The program is known as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA for short.

It is estimated that DACA has protected nearly 800,000 people throughout the United States, including more than 217,000 residing California. Of those, approximately 20,000 work as teachers, assistants, or in the educational field.

With the unanimous passing of this resolution, the District joins school districts, post-secondary educational institutions, local and community – based agencies and organizations reassuring students and families of the District that campuses will remain safe and welcoming places to learn, whether documented or undocumented.

As part of their commitment, the District will continue to work with local agencies, nonprofit agencies, legal services, and other groups to provide support for families with deportation concerns or worries about their immigration status.

A full copy of Resolution 07-17/18 is available on the District website at www. emuhsd.org/Page/440.

December 27, 2017

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Mid Valley News

EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT

Chalk Talk

by Staff Writer El Monte

Growing up as the daughter of immigrants, El Monte High School educator Elisa Perez was an English learner who dreamed of graduating from an elite university and returning to her community to help a new generation of students realize their potential and reach their goal of attaining higher education.

Perez has served El Monte and San Gabriel Valley families in many capacities since graduating from El

El Monte Union Educator Receives $3,000 Scholarship for Community Outreach

Monte High in 2001: as a community liaison for the Migrant Education Program; as an instructor for the Harvey Mudd Upward Bound program; as a presenter for the Parent Involvement Academy and as an Inspire Women’s Conference Steering Committee member.

Foothill Credit Union recognized Perez’s commitment to community outreach with its inaugural Education Advancement Scholarship, a $3,000 award designed for educators looking

El Monte High School teacher Elisa Perez, center, is joined by Melissa Alcantar and Andrew Gomez, representatives for Foothill Credit Union, which awarded the educator its inaugural Education Advancement Scholarship for $3,000 on Nov. 30.

Courtesy photo

to further their careers in education.

The gift, presented during Foothill’s Ambassador Breakfast on Nov. 30, will go to help Perez complete her doctoral degree at UCLA. “Education is my passion and this gift is an investment in the El Monte community and for the students who look to educators for guidance and inspiration,” Perez said. “I will be there for you. We will succeed together.”

Perez attended Georgetown University and UCLA before beginning her teaching career at her alma mater in 2009. Transitioning to the position of instructional coach in 2014, Perez focuses on staff development, working with many of the same teachers who taught her when she was a student at El Monte High.

At UCLA, Perez is researching the academic relationship between firstgeneration college-going Latinas and their immigrant mothers. Her dissertation is titled “Like Mother, Like Daughter: A Study on the Intricate Relationship between Latina Mothers and Daughters.”

“My research is entirely focused on the El Monte community,” Perez said. “There were a lot of people who helped me succeed while I was a student at El Monte High School. I want to make sure I’m doing the same by letting students see that our demographics do not determine our destiny

and if I can get a doctoral degree at UCLA, so can they.”

The special bond between Perez and her mother – who came to the United States from Mexico unable to speak a word of English and spent most of her life working in the garment industry – inspired her doctoral thesis. Her dissertation subjects are Latinas who graduated from El Monte Union and are attending college.

“The tremendous work being done

by Elisa Perez to establish and maintain high expectations among El Monte Union students and teachers is just one way she is giving back to her community,” El Monte High Principal Robin Torres said. “Elisa is a tireless worker who inspires us all.”

Perez is the first winner of the credit union’s scholarship. Up to $3,000 will be awarded annually to one or more educators seeking to advance their career in the education field.

“As a former student coming home with the goal of empowering others to work hard and prepare themselves for the future, Elisa Perez personifies the El Monte Union spirit of community and diversity,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “I want to thank Foothill Credit Union for its generosity, support and recognition of one of the many talented educators we have in our schools working as a team to ensure our students succeed.”

El Monte Union Auditoriums Bring Magic of the Arts to Students, Community

by Staff Writer El Monte

The Sugar Plum Fairy and her flock of snowflakes were among the more than 70 international ballet dancers who delicately waltzed, leaped and pirouetted during a magical performance of holiday favorite, “The Nutcracker,” in front of a sold-out crowd of students and families at El Monte High School’s auditorium on Dec. 10.

Hidden from the audience, those staging the elaborate production – 14 El Monte Union theater technicians who bustled backstage to ensure that the countless props were in place, lighting and sound were precise, and transitions between scenes were seamless.

“The quality of service and experience individuals that work for the auditoriums department are equivalent to what one sees at a community college or university,” Auditorium

Esperanza Award Continued from page 2

ward Zuniga said. “Mr. Castellanos perfectly emulates the spirit of Bobby Salcedo, who was determined to see students excel in every goal they set

Coordinator Mike Tellez said. “I am proud of the leadership behind me and the individuals who work under me because as a team, we are the ones making the magic happen behind the scenes.”

As part of the District’s efforts to increase visual and performing arts programs and engage the community, EMUHSD has renovated the auditoriums at El Monte and Rosemead high schools, upgraded equipment, and expanded the auditorium department with a team of adept theater technicians who design, plan and produce professional events.

Since 2015, Tellez – who previously designed and implemented new Disney theme park attractions and shows – has staged more than 370 District and private events, including the South El Monte Beauty Pageant

and Rosemead’s grand opening of Skate Park.

The team has also produced events featuring the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Los Angeles Opera, as well as in-house events for choir, band, drama and school concerts.

“Our District venues really provide our community a place to come together and appreciate the performing arts within our schools and surrounding communities,” Tellez said.

“I love helping people and my community through the arts and inspiring students to pursue their dreams.”

The District’s two auditoriums, on average, hold two to three productions a week, serving as the centers of entertainment and culture for students and surrounding communities.

“It is so wonderful to see our stu-

for themselves.”

The El Monte Promise Foundation engages families in financing their children’s pursuit of higher education by opening college savings accounts, teaching a student and parent financial literacy curriculum and provid-

ing college admission information to high school students through the El Monte Union Pledge Compact. This year, the foundation aims to raise $100,000 to support students’ trajectories toward college.

The other Bobby Salcedo Espe-

dents, parents and community members enjoying professional productions at our District auditoriums, led by an experienced technical staff who work tirelessly behind the curtains to make magic happen on stage,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said.

“Visual and performing arts is vital to providing students a well-rounded education and is equally important to bringing our community together.” ranza awardees are Richard Hanson, an outreach consultant at El Monte City School District, and Priscilla Figueroa, a teacher on special assignment at Mountain View School District.

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Mid Valley Sports

High School Boys’ Soccer: Pasadena Wins Big on the Road over Monrovia

by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer National / Los Angeles

The Pasadena Bulldogs defeated Monrovia Wildcats 3-0 in a nonleague Boys’ Soccer game this past Thursday. The Bulldogs were led by Roman Sanchez who netted two goals in this game and also picked up an assist. Sanchez started the scoring the 24th minute with a goal that Wildcats Goalkeeper Aiden McKelve should have saved. The goal was created by

a nice through ball from Bulldogs Midfielder Andres Cervantes who left the game later in the half with a leg injury and he did not return. The Wildcats caught a tough break with this goal since they had been dominating the ball possession and could not take advantage. Just 5 minutes later in the 29th minute the Bulldogs doubled the lead with a goal from the speedy Asher Smith who scored on a breakaway when he just outran Wildcats Defender Gordon Sheppard.

The Wildcats trailing 2-0 at the start of the 2nd half started well as they continued to look for a goal.

Bulldogs Defenders Micah Moore and David Almanza had very strong games as they continued to clear the

ball every time the Wildcats got close.

Monrovia had a great opportunity in the 64th minute to cut the lead in half when the Wildcats Midfielder David Johnson hit the post with a shot that came from outside of the box. Sanchez got his second goal of the game and team leading 7th goal of the season in the 79th minute with just a minute to go in the game to make it 3-0 and to seal the victory.

The Monrovia Wildcats fell to 6-5-3 with this loss in non-league play. They have one more non-league game to go in their schedule which they will complete on January 3rd at home against Duarte. The Wildcats will start their 10-game Rio Hondo League schedule on January 12th

Wildcats at South Pasadena. The Pasadena Bulldogs finished 5-1 in non-league play, this was their final non-league game of the season. They will now focus on Pacific League play where they started 0-2 and sit currently in last place. They play their next league game on January 3rd at home vs Crescenta Valley.

#8 and #24: Laker Numbers No More

by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer National / Los Angeles

Ervin “Magic” Johnson, Jeanie Buss, Kobe Bryant and Family during his basketball jersey retirement ceremony at Staple Center, in Los Angeles California.

Courtesy photo from NBA /facebook.com

On December 18th during the halftime of the Warriors vs Lakers game at Staples Center Kobe Bryant’s #8 and #24 jersey numbers were retired with jersey numbers being hung in the rafters. Bryant became the first player in NBA history to get two different jersey numbers retired. The Warriors won the game 116-114 in Overtime but the game itself definitely took a backseat to the Kobe Bryant coronation as one of the greatest Laker players ever.

Before the game started Figueroa Street was shut down and “Kobeland” was opened to the public for free where fans could go and celebrate one of their favorite players of all time. LA Live was packed all day as fans went to take pictures with Kobe memorabilia and to ride the Ferris wheel. Not every day you see a Ferris wheel outside an NBA arena. All day Los Angeles Sports Talk Radio talked about the greatness of Bryant which included his 81 points performance against the Toronto

Raptors in 2006, his 62 points in 3 quarters against the Dallas Mavericks in 2005, his 60 points in his final NBA game in 2016 against the Utah Jazz and of course his 5 NBA Titles with just one team, the Los Angeles Lakers.

During the Halftime ceremony General Manager and Former Laker player, Earvin “Magic” Johnson spoke about Bryant and said he was the “greatest to ever wear the purple and gold”. Acting Owner Jeannie Buss also spoke “Kobe, I thank you for staying loyal to the purple and gold, and remaining a Laker for life when it might have been easier to leave.

We asked for your hustle and you gave us your heart, which was so much more.” Bryant also spoke at the end and he thanked the fans for all their support through the years.

Kobe finished the ceremony with a “Mamba Out!” and drop of the mic and the crowd erupted in cheers. It was an unforgettable night in Los Angeles Sports history and Bryant definitely earned it as he left it all on the court night in and night out for the Lakers.

Girls’ High School Soccer: Arcadia Wins at Home Against Burroughs

by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer National / Los Angeles

The Arcadia Apaches defeated the Burroughs Indians 1-0 in Pacific League Girls’ Soccer this past Friday.

The Apaches got the only goal of the game very early in the 5th minute from Serena Rosas on a shot that Indians Goalkeeper Samantha Martinez would want to have back. It was a shot to her left side that went off the tips of her fingers and into the net.

The Apaches dominated the ball possession in the 1st half and had 6 shots on goal that Martinez was able to save. Amanda Howard had a strong half for the Apaches in the Midfield.

Indians forward Catrina Villalpando had a couple dangerous shots that went over the cross bar and could have tied the game.

The Burroughs Indians had a great start to the 2nd half employing a high press with a 4-3-3 forma-

tion that caused issues in the Arcadia backfield. Villalpando was clearly the best player for the Indians in the 2nd half as she had 4 shots on goal but Arcadia Goalkeeper Kat Guerra made very important saves. Indians Freshman Forward Lauryn Bailey who leads the team with 9 goals was contained the entire game very well

by Apaches defender Paige Acosta.

The Apaches had no shots in the goal in the 2nd half while the Indians had

6 shots and even hit the post a couple times.

The Apaches improved to 2-0 in Pacific League play while the Indians fell to 2-1. Arcadia’s next game will be at Burbank on January 5th while Burroughs next game will be at Glendale on January 5th. Both teams will now just focus on League play for the rest of the season in a very grueling 14 game league schedule in a very competitive Pacific League,

December 27, 2017

Webb's Rules

CHRISTMAS

by Eugene R. Webb

Christmas is a wonderful annual event; It’s a good time to be grateful and repent. For it’s a special time to honor Jesus’s birth; And for us to reflect, why we are here on earth.

Many things we do at Christmas without any fear; We should be doing throughout the entire year. Everyday we need to love Jesus for he’s our guide; And our feelings for him, we should never hide.

Santa Claus only appears at Christmas each year; And just as quickly, Santa will disappear. But through Santa, we’ve learned the joy of giv-

ing; Which I truthfully feel is the secret to living.

We certainly don’t need all the material things; Just giving love and sharing is what happiness brings. To all of God’s children, let’s us be considerate and kind; While holding fast the love of Jesus in our mind.

So everyday let’s help people and love each other; Regardless of their faith, race or their color. All of God’s children are our sisters and brothers With unconditional love we can love one another.

Voorhis School Warms the Holidays for Those in Need

by Staff Writer El Monte

Voorhis Elementary School students, staff and families reached out again this winter season to help the less fortunate with cozy, warm blankets. The school has been collecting recyclables for the past two months and raised enough money through recycling to purchase 42 blankets for those in need.

Each blanket was wrapped in handmade Christmas paper created by the students and parents which is sure to bring a smile to those who receive it.

The blankets were given to the Emergency Resources Association (ERA) and Lillian Rey, ERA coordinator, was extremely grateful for the out-

pouring of kindness and generosity by the Voorhis community.

“Thank you so much for these wonderful blankets,” said Rey. “The people who receive them are so grateful to get something personal like this.

What Voorhis has done the past few years with the blanket drive is such a blessing.”

The students were very excited with their collection of blankets and were thrilled to present their donation to Ms. Rey. “I’m so glad we could get the blankets because I know the people really need something to keep warm,” said Sarah, a fourth grader. “It makes me happy to be able to help others and I hope they like their blanket.”

El Monte City Council Selects New Mayor Pro Tem

by Staff Writer El Monte

The El Monte City Council voted unanimously to appoint longtime City Councilman Juventino “J” Gomez as Mayor Pro Tem during the final City Council meeting of the year on Dec. 5.

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Mid Valley News

Gomez, who has served on the City Council since 2003, assumes the title previously held by Councilman Jerry Velasco. Throughout his tenure with the City, Gomez has been instrumental in organizing signature city initiatives and events, includNew Mayor Pro Tem continued on page 8

Cracker Barrel

“Wrapping Up the Year” By: Mike McClure El Monte

…so I went to see my doctor today, with all the colds going around I thought it was a good time to see him. Dr. Hector Gonzalez is part of the Family Care Specialist Medical Group, his office is over in Montebello but I have been going there for years so it’s worth the drive. While I was there I learned about a group based in Irvine called the “Senior Medicare Patrol” or “California SMP”. They have developed some very informative literature about frauds and common scams directed towards seniors with a useful “Scam Pyramid” detailing common scams with prevention tips and the phone numbers for the government agencies for folks to call if they think someone is trying to commit a fraud. For more information their web site is cahealthadvocates.org/fraud-abuse or call 1(855)613-7080.

I want to congratulate the new Trustees to the El Monte Union H.S. District’s Board of Trustees. The two

new members are David Diaz and Florencio Briones who were both sworn in by Supervisor Hilda Solis and also congrats to re-elected Trustee, Ricardo Pidilla (who gave a great speech) who was sworn in by our Assemblywoman, Blanca Rubio. It was a great evening with a lot of hope for the future of our kids.

And finally, a shout out to Eduardo the Smart& Final Store Manage at Santa Anita/Ramona. I have known Eduardo since he was Ass’t Manager of the Smart & Final in Alhambra and was delighted when he became Manager here in El Monte. He runs a good store and is a good asset to our community. We got into a discussion about which label made the best salsa and Eduardo touted me on their “First Street” brand salsa and made me promise to plug it if he was right that it was “great” …okay Eduardo here is your plug, your salsa is outstanding!

Happy Holidays NOTE: Please don’t start writing in expecting free plugs (although Aladdin’s beef kabobs are pretty good)

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“Working Overtime”

“A Christmas Poem”

I received my annual poem from an old friend, Dr. John Phalen (or I should say the “Reverent, Dr. John Phalen, but I have known him for so long I just call him John). I first met Dr. Phalen when I was the Director of Sales/Marketing for the Holiday Inn people in Boyle Hts. and John was the Director of the International Institute which he had built into one of the premier organizations dealing with the refugee crises created at the end of the Viet Nam War and with the messy fall of Saigon. Dr. Phalen had teamed up with our hotel manager to establish a “Hospitality Training Program” for many of the “boat people” that had been relocated in Los Angeles. He already had a “Dental Assistant Training Program” in Lincoln Hts. and over the next few years he was able to place literally thousands of the refugees into stable living conditions where they were able to become productive citizens of their new country.

John Phalen is what they use to refer to as a “Renaissance Man”, a good

administrator, a spiritual thinker and a great writer, so I wasn’t surprised to find out that he was also an ordained minister. But to be honest, the thing I liked best about him is that he is a

by Dick James El Monte play write and I have performed in several of his plays ( if you are a regular reader of this column you know that there is still a lot of ham left in this thespian) I think that I am still up Working Overtime continued on page 8

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December 27, 2017

December 27, 2017

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into Winter Fun O SS S W CCRRO WO O RRDD

Sudoku

Crossword Puzzle solution in issue 1.10.17

Solution for Sudoku in issue 1.10.17

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

ACROSS 1. Oscar, e.g.

6. Debate position 9. Judicial document 13. Hawaiian veranda 14. Deadeye’s forte 15. Capital of Egypt 16. Lumps of something soft 17. Beluga yield 18. Ar on table of elements 19. *First state to officially recognize Christmas 21. *Country which produced first artificial Christmas trees 23. Boiling emotion 24. Grain in “The House That Jack Built” 25. Equinox mo.

28. *On Christmas it often includes ham or goose 30. In style 35. Twelfth month of Jewish year 37. *Max and Santa’s Little Helper 39. Jack Black’s Libre 40. Saturnalia’s place of origin 41. Rat’s world 43. Movie spool 44. Actress ____ Perlman, pl.

46. Angler’s decoy 47. Partner of “void” 48. “A Connecticut ____ in King Arthur’s Court” 50. Speed of object divided by speed of sound 52. A layer in plywood 53. Please do not delay 55. *”____ the season to be jolly...”

57. *Beloved Montgomery Ward creation 61. *”Christmas Carol” author 65. Avoid, as in taxes 66. ENT’s first concern?

68. Alfred Hitchcock in his own movie, e.g 69. What tailor did 70. #19 Across abbreviation 71. Driver’s 180 72. Sin over cos, pl.

73. Blade drops 74. Mexican coins

DOWN 1. Aquarium dweller 2. Room border 3. Dwarf buffalo 4. Torah teacher 5. Divest one of a gun 6. “For” in Spanish 7. Orinoco or Grande 8. Opposite of alpha 9. *Like holiday memories?

10. Capital of Latvia 11. Wedge in a golfer’s bag, e.g.

12. Broadway recognition 15. Dairy aisle package 20. Bribes of rewards, in the olden days 22. Liberty Tree, e.g.

24. “Naked Lunch” creatures 25. *Like Christmas 26. Greeting in the land of “Mele Kalikimaka” 27. Part of cow’s stomach 29. *Yuletide 31. Repair, as in socks 32. Freeze over 33. Conch, e.g.

34. *Poisonous Christmas berry 36. Plumbing problem 38. Red Cross supplies 42. Abdominal muscles 45. *Like a letter mailed to Santa 49. Sixth sense 51. Diaphragm spasm 54. Best way to shop?

56. *The kids do it in openng of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” 57. Catch your breath 58. Iris holder 59. Dracula’s bane 60. Words from Wordsworth 61. Big attraction 62. Outback birds 63. Infamous emperor of #40 Across 64. Daughters’ brothers 67. Belgian brew

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Mid Valley News

New Board Members continued from page 1

who lost the seat in a tough battle in November. Mrs. Torres de Siegrist has committed her life to service and education and was wrapping up her second term as a Board Member. The first membership was served from 2007 – 2011.

Incoming Board Members Florencio Briones and David Diaz were installed into their new positions by Supervisor Hidla Solis and after a few words of gratitude and appreciation, it was time to nominate and elect a new Board of Trustees President and positions of the Board including Vice

President, Clerk, county representative.

After a few requirements of protocol and regulations, long time El Monte resident with a family that boasts three generations of El Monte Union High School Graduates, Mrs. Maria Morgan graciously accepted nomination as the new Board President.

Dr. Zuniga banged the gavel and recessed the meeting for a short reception at 6:35 pm. Words of congratulations, praises for achievements and well wishes were everywhere on night meant to honor achievements, recognize accomplishments, and identify hope for the future of our students.

Local Businesswoman Honored continued from page 1

private patrol operator with training and certification from the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services serving over 50 locations throughout El Monte and Southern California.

Established in 2008 as a woman, minority-owned business, Absolute Security International is a certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise

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 Dick James Devette Johnson Michael McClure Mike Nelson

providing opportunities to veterans and peace officers whose life of service is all they know.

It has been 30 years since Lucy has arrived in the United States searching for the American Dream. The foundation is poured, the walls are standing, and the roof is complete. While she is still searching for the white picket fence to complete her American Dream, with creativity and dedication to her community, she is obviously the architect of her destiny. Regardless, 30 years later Lucy has provided the opportunity for hundreds of others to build their own.

As a woman who started from scratch, her creative energy and determination is a perfect illustration of the power women in business and her recognition is well deserved.

Working Overtime continued from page 5

on U-tube in his play “The Order” if you look real hard for it.

I called John to thank him for this year’s poem and to catch up on what he and his lovely wife Sherry are doing. Sherry is another treat, she grew up in China in the same area as the current Chinese leader and she has a clinic in Seal Beach where she has acupuncture and herbal remedies available, that’s an entirely separate story that I am trying to get her to

New Mayor Pro Tem continued from page 5

ing the Autism Resource Conference, the El Monte Job Fair, Children’s Day Parade, Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies.

“I’m excited to be in this position working alongside my colleagues to support causes that are important to this community,” Gomez said. “I take my job seriously because I care deeply about this City and its residents.”

Gomez said his main focus for 2018 includes helping to increase public safety with the hiring of more City police officers, upgrading their equipment and working with the El Monte Police Department to improve community relations efforts. His plans also include identifying physical dangers such as road hazards and dilapidated equipment in city parks.

“My utmost concern is keeping our City, the community and our residents’ safe,” Gomez said. “To ensure our City continues to grow and thrive, our children, the business community, and our families need to feel safe.”

December 27, 2017 write about. Dr Phalen is still teaching, he has established a school in Whittier “The New Millennium School” providing Bachelor/ Master/ Doctorial Programs for Spirit Centered Services. We had a long talk and I invited him to join with me on the “Working Overtime” team as a guest contributor to the column. I think you will enjoy his unique experiences and maybe I can talk him into writing another play for me.

Happy Holidays!

Coupled with his goals for safety, Gomez hopes to improve El Monte’s growth by continuing housing developments, attracting more businesses to the city and forming partnerships with other municipalities through his involvement in the Independent Cities Association.

As a veteran, Gomez is passionate about working with the City Council to support men and women in service as well as protecting the rights and opportunities of veterans when they return home. Last month’s groundbreaking of Baldwin Rose Family Veteran Housing is a prime example of a collaborative effort that the City Council is proud to have seen come to fruition this year.

El Monte’s 2018 elected officials are made up of Mayor Andre Quintero, Mayor Pro Tem Juventino “J” Gomez, Councilman Jerry Velasco, Councilwoman Norma Macias, Councilwoman Victoria Martinez, City Treasure Richard M. Thomas and City Clerk Jonathan Hawes.

For information on the City of El Monte, please call 626-580-2001 or visit www.elmonteca.gov.

Rio Hondo College Sends 40 Firefighters to Battle Wildfires

by Staff Writer Los Angeles County / California

Sixteen cadets from the Rio Hondo College Wildfire Academy are helping to battle the Creek Fire and 24 former graduates have joined efforts this week to quell the massive Thomas Fire burning near Santa Barbara.

The firefighters were activated on Monday. Crew 77, known as the Roadrunners, was previously activated on Dec. 5 to work the Creek Fire near Sylmar. The new tour will run about two weeks.

The 24 firefighters assigned to the Thomas Fire include Rio Hondo College Wildland Fire Academy graduates who worked the fire season in

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Oregon, California and Washington, and a group of firefighters who graduated from the Rio Hondo College Fire Academy in November.

“We are sending as many as we can due to the devastating nature of this fire,” said Crew 77 Chief Tracy E. Rickman, who is the College’s EMT, wildland, fire and homeland security coordinator. “Everyone knows they will miss the holidays, but they all wanted to go and help out.”

The crew assists with all aspects of fire monitoring, suppression and control. In summer, the crew was activated to support U.S. Forest Service crews. In 2016, the crew was called up three times to aid

the Forest Service.

Some crew members left other jobs to join the effort.

Rio Hondo College’s Wildland Fire Academy is highly regarded within the industry, with 100 percent of graduates finding positions with wildland fire agencies.

“Our fire academy crews and graduates are true community servants, and we could not be prouder of them,” Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss said. “Their dedication to their craft and to the State of California is a testimonial to the lessons of compassion and commitment they learn at the Rio Hondo College Fire Academy.”