Mid Valley News - Volume 56 Issue 12

Community News page 8

Chalk Talk Community Events, page 2 - 3

The Community Paper of Record

Vol. 56, No. 12

Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966

June 12, 2019

El Monte Welcomes Outdoor Research to the Friendly City

by Crystal Garcia, Contributing Writer El Monte

El Monte is now home to the newest manufacturing facility for performance apparel and outdoor gear company, Outdoor Research.

The Seattle-based company celebrated the Grand Opening of their San Gabriel Valley facility on May 31st, with hundreds of people in attendance, including the company’s new employees and their families, along with many El Monte officials.

“It is with great pride, and honor that you (Outdoor Research) have chosen to be here with us...” said city councilwoman, Maria Morales, as she spoke from the podium during the celebrations.

With that, El Monte Economic Development Director, Betty Donovanik, says the city is happy to have a big company join the city, but also bring more of a daytime population to the community.

During the celebrations, Jason Duncan, Vice President of Tactical Innovation and CSR for Outdoor Research spoke to the crowd and shared that the company looked all

Courtesy Photo by Erik Valdivia

over the country before finding the perfect workforce and space for its new facility here in the San Gabriel Valley.

“We have a sewing resource and worker resource in El Monte that has been fantastically skilled and avail-

able and so we’re happy to be here,” said Duncan.

So far, the company has employed about 115 skilled laborers working inside the brand new 32,000 square foot facility, that will be focusing solely on creating the Outdoor Re-

search specialized gloves.

Attendees of the Grand Opening were treated to a tour of the new facility and got to see the advanced technology workers are using to create these specialized gloves.

Outdoor Research continued on page 16

Red, White and Bounce Brings Fun to Wellness

by Julie Carson, Contributing Writer El Monte

“It shows families and kids how to be healthy, the benefits and it’s also fun,” said Lisa Del Real, Recrea-tion Services Manager with the city of El Monte Parks and Recreation Department. Del Real was refer-ring to the 4th annual Red, White and Bounce!

Health and Wellness Fair that took place on June 7.

The event held at Mountain View park featured resource booths, health screenings, arts and crafts ven-dors, demonstrations and inflatables for the kids enjoyment.

Parents attending the event received information on a diverse range of topics from organizations such as: Active SVG, whose mission is to show how to live a more sustainable life by merging social and envi-ronmental justice together in the San Gabriel Valley. The group also teaches safety on bikes through pro-grams like Women on Wheels and 626 Golden Streets; ChapCare who provides healthcare services to low-income residents within the Pasadena area, as well as insurance enrollment; Free screenings for diabetes and anemia were provided by

El Monte Central City Community Health Care which serves low-income and medically underserved residents, and they gave away fun toys.

San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District handed out Public Health Alert booklets on how mosquitoes are changing the way of life in Southern California. With the climate changing they stressed the importance of learning more about mosquitoes and how to stay mosquito-free in your area, especially to watch out for standing water in plant saucers, buckets, pet bowls, and vases inside and outside; El Monte School District gave out information on their Head Start and Early Head Start program which of-fers early childhood education and social services to kids in low-income families.

At the El Monte Promise Foundation’s booth, they discussed how their mission is to ensure young people are college-ready sooner rather than later. They handed out books and crayons as well as information on their Summer Reading Circle at Mountain View Park. At the Wellness continued on page 16

Courtesy Photo By Julie Carson

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Mid Valley News Mid Valley News

June 12, 2019 June 12, 2019

Chalk Talk Community Committed to College and Career

El Monte Union High School District celebrated more than 2,000 members of the Class of 2019 during commencement ceremonies that brought together teachers, staff, families and community members, who cheered on graduates as they received their diplomas and leaped into the next chapter of their lives. The District celebrated graduating seniors from its six high schools on June 6. The adult school celebrated high school diploma recipients on May 29.

Distict Honors Over 2000 Graduates at Adult School Celebrates 260 Members of the Class of 2019 2019 Commencement Ceremonies The El Monte Union High School District honored more than 2,000 members of the Class of 2019 in commencement ceremonies that included teachers and staff proudly looking on, excited students waving their diplomas through the air and families and friends cheering loudly from the stands.

All 30 students in South El Monte High School’s Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program applied to four­year universities. AVID provides additional academic support to students who would be the first in their families to go to college.

South El Monte’s graduating class of AVID scholars represents 100 percent of those who committed to pursuing post­ secondary education. 90 percent, have been accepted at four­year universities.

Seventy­three percent of AVID students reported that they plan to attend a four­year college and 27 percent plan to attend a two­year college.

AVID, an acronym for Advancement Via Individual Determination, is program designed to help underachieving students with

high academic potential prepare for entrance to colleges and universities.

The District celebrated 281 students, including six valedictorians, from South El Monte High School; 530 seniors, including 24 valedictorians, from Arroyo High School; 384 seniors, including 12 valedictorians from El Monte High School; 402 seniors, including 15 valedictorians, from Rosemead High School; and 90 seniors will participate in the commencement ceremony from Fernando R. Ledesma High School.

Together, the five comprehensive high schools produced 59 valedictorians with GPAs of 4.2 or higher, many of whom will pursue majors in science, technology, engineering and math at prestigious universities.

Among the 340 students participating in the ceremony from Mountain View High were two valedictorian and four graduates accepted to attend the prestigious Georgetown University in Washington DC. Georgetown University is one of the world’s leading academic and research institutions.

The El Monte­Rosemead Adult School celebrated 260 graduates – 180 students who received a high school diploma and 80 who completed the ESL program – during festive ceremonies May 29­30.

Approximately 120 adult school students – ranging in ages 18 to 70 – participated in the diploma graduation ceremony, held at Rosemead High School on May 29.

Students represent 14 countries, including the United States, China, Bangladesh, Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, Vietnam, El Salvador, Nepal, Cambodia, Peru, Venezuela, Nicaragua and Myanmar.

Among the graduates are 88 parents and seven grandparents. Close to 140 students plan to attend college and 42 are taking or plan to take career technical education classes at EMRAS. Fifty­two of the graduates started in the school’s English as a Second Language classes. Many are the first in their families to graduate

from high school.

The Advanced ESL culminating spring ceremony, held at El Monte High School on May 30, featured 80 students who were congratulated by Principal Dr. Deborah Kerr and their instructors Dhaline Hean, Wayne Miyahara and Joyce Chan.

The ceremony featured speeches from students Feng Lin, Maria Valle and Amanda Escobar.

“Everyone here has come to the ceremony from diff countries, different experiences and different cultures,” Dr. Kerr said. “We are together as a community celebrating your success as students who have made a new life in this country and who now have English language skills as a tool to that success. We are here to celebrate you and your accomplishments.”

June 12, 2019 June 12, 2019

Mid Valley News Mid Valley News

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Chalk Talk Community Committed to College and Career

A Message from the Superintendent

Dr. Edward Zuniga, Superintendent, El Monte Union High School District

and faculty.

We are excited to reach the culmination of the 2018­ 19 school year, which has produced impressive successes and achievements among our students, staff

As our seniors prepare to celebrate the end of their journeys at El Monte Union, I want to congratulate all of our students for their hard work and efforts. Their time here has not been without its challenges, but each has worked to overcome personal and academic obstacles to reach this incredible milestone.

seniors are going to college! We are so proud to have pool of talented, skilled and intelligent students, who will represent our community well. I want to thank our parents, teachers and staff for always being behind them in their endeavors.

El Monte Union Salutes Student Board Member Heather Huynh

Please take a moment to read more stories of what we have celebrated in May, including our inaugural LGBTQ Pride Month flag­raising ceremony and the reveal of our inaugural Cooking Showdown winner.

On behalf of the Board of Trustees and entire District, I want to express how deeply grateful we are to the El Monte Union community for supporting our efforts to educate our students and prepare them to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Congratulations to the Class of 2019!

Rosemead High School senior Heather Huynh was recently recognized by the Board of Trustees for her service as the Student Board Member for the 2018­2019 school year.

Heather is one of six student leaders to serve on the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council, serving as voices for their peers at their respective

Earlier this month, students who will continue their education at top universities and colleges were celebrated during College Signing Day ceremonies.

South El Monte High School had something particularly special to celebrate – 100 percent of its AVID

school sites.

As a student board member, Heather attended board meetings and conferences, learning about the legislative process and using her newfound knowledge to help engage students in issues relevant to them.

South El Monte Eagles Make Waves at Aquatic Engineering Competition After completing a series of challenges to win first place in the high school division of the 2019 Los Angeles Regional SeaPerch competition in March, the South El Monte High School Scuba Squad showcased underwater robotics skills at a national competition June 1­2 at the University of Maryland.

Finishing 30th in Engineering Design Process, 22nd in the obstacle course, and 17th overall, The Eagles of South El Monte finished in the top third of all three divisions. in 84 schools from 31 states, Puerto Rico, and New Zealand, competed in the 2019 Sea

Perch Challene national competition.

This is South El Monte High School’s second appearance at the nationals since 2015. This year’s aquatic engineering team, advised by science teacher Michael LeGaspe, is made up of seniors Josselyn Melendez, Jose Robles and Erik Zepeda.

“We will have to work extremely hard to win in the nationals,” Zepeda said. “We meet every Friday afternoon to test our craft. There is a lot of trial and error in the process, but we are up to the challenge.”

The SeaPerch Challenge is an underwater robotics competition designed by the U.S. Navy to inspire

South El Monte High School teacher Michael LeGaspe, left, students Jose Robles, Josselyn Melendez and Erik Zepeda, and SeaPerch coordinator Rudy Loera, pose with their first­place trophy from the 2019 Los Angeles Regional SeaPerch competition, held in March.

students to learn science, engineering, technology and math (STEM) subjects.

For the regional competition, the team applied ideas from Project Lead The Way (PLTW) curriculum to navigate a Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) through a rescue and recovery mission and obstacle courses, taking first and second place, respectively, and being awarded first place for its engineering notebook.

“The competition was very challenging, because it was pouring rain throughout the day and we had trouble seeing our ROV in the water,”

Melendez said. “I discovered that some of the target beacons we were tasked with lighting were an inch taller than we had expected, so we had to make adjustments. Our PLTW training helped us out immensely.”

Scuba Squad members are working to improve the ROV ahead of the nationals, trying to balance buoyancy, control and speed, as well as adjusting the ROV’s capability to retrieve objects as they emulate a search mission modeled on the rescue of Thai students from in a cave in 2018.

The El Monte Union Board of Trustees recently honored the South El Monte High School Scuba Squad for winning first place at the regional SeaPerch competition in March and qualifying for the national competition in June. Pictured are Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga, left, Board of Trustees Vice President Florencio Briones, Member Maria Morgan, teacher Michael LeGaspe, Erik Zepeda, Josselyn Melendez, Board President David Diaz, Principal Dr. Amy Avina, Clerk Ricardo Padilla and Member Carlos Salcedo.

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Mid Valley News

June 12, 2019

Community Corner

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Apply Today! for exemplary service at an awards Many of the honorees’ supportive ceremony at the Grace T. Black Aufamily members, friends, and colditorium in El Monte. leagues also attended the ceremony, Federal Relay Service: (800) 877-8339 TTY / ASCII “Our unsung heroes and heroines whichwww.gsa.gov/fedrelay featured a keynote speech by are nominated by non-profit organiLa Verne Police Department Chap1-855-JOB-2020 zations, service centers, cities, and lain, Pastor (1-855-562-2020) Kevin Yriarte. churches throughout the San Gabriel “Your love for others forces you to The U.S. Census Bureau is an Equal Opportunity Employer Valley, all who greatly benefit from look beyond the comfortable and the their unselfish time and energy,” convenient to see the needs others Napolitano said. “Together, these may choose to ignore,” said Pastor 21 individuals have provided over Yriarte. “You say ‘I have to’ when 270 years of volunteer work in their other people say ‘I can’t.’ If anyone respective communities, saving cities ever asks you how to spell volunteer,

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Volunteers continued on page 16

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June 12, 2019

“Cracker Barrel”

Webb’s Rule DADDY

by Eugene R. Webb

I’ve always been proud of being a Daddy; With children God blest us with three.

Two sweet little girls and a rugged laddie; And they are as different as they can be.

I wouldn’t trade them for any other; A lot of joy they give to me and their mother.

Love and happiness is what they bring; and often they make me feel just like a king.

They all three knew about God at the start; And live knowing that Jesus is in their heart.

There were times that each of them were a pill; But I’ll always love Gail, Kirk and our baby Jill.

There’s so many good memories that survived; That makes me the happiest Daddy alive.

PICK UP THE MVN It’s All Good News

They are so thoughtful, considerate and kind; I’m so grateful to be able to call them mine.

“Working Overtime”

“How I Met Eric Garcetti”

I heard that Mayor Olmos (South El Monte) just hosted a meeting with L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti and most of the other Mayors from cities throughout the County. I was reminded of how I first met Eric Garcetti.

As many of you know, I use to be in the hotel sales business. I worked in some fine properties - the Stardust, the Desert Inn & the Flamingo Hotels in Las Vegas, The Del Coronado in San Diego, and the old Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles to name a few.

Anyone in the hotel industry will tell you how important it is to have a good working relationship with the local law enforcement, drugs & prostitution can overrun a good establishment if you don’t.

I always maintained a good relationship with the LAPD. I knew Tom Bradley when he was a lieutenant in the Department long before he went into politics and it was the legendary Capt. Rudy De Leon (the first Mexican-American to command a division of the LAPD) who talked me into taking the job of Director of Sales with Holiday Inn and take over one of their franchises in Boyle Heights which was in the Hollenbeck Division that he commanded.

It was there that I got to know Gil Garcetti, who was moving up in the District Attorney’s office.

Capt. De Leon created an organization - the Hollenbeck Police Business Council - and they built a youth center where the old police station had been. The businessmen and the cops were holding their monthly lunch at the old Pabst Brewery and it was there that I met Gil Garcetti.

Gil was moving up in the D.A.’s

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Mid Valley News

office and was soon elected District Attorney. The Garcetti family had long ties to Boyle Heights and he always took an interest in what was going on at the youth center that the guys had built. This was before it became famous (Paul Gonzales won the Olympic Boxing Gold Medal in 1984 boxing out of the now famous Hollenbeck Youth Center).

With the fame came scrutiny and some of Gil Garcetti’s critics questioned his commitment to the kids, implying that he had just come on board for the publicity. Rudy De Leon invited me to become the fund raiser for the Youth Center and it upset me when I heard about the

by Dick James El Monte criticism, knowing the D.A.’s past involvement.

So I wrote a letter to the Times and not only spoke about his history with the organization but challenged anyone who doubted him to come to the Youth Center and find out for Working Overtime continued on page 16

“Women and their Recipes”

by: Mike McClure, Staff Writer El Monte

…so the other day I had the chance to sit down and talk to Pamela Rio, the owner/operator of Rio’s Pizza which just opened in South El Monte on Durfee and yes it is the same Rio family that owns Rio’s Pizza in Montebello where they are a landmark.

I love pizza but, as I told Pam, I try not to eat it, or I would be as big as a house. She is a petite lady, I don’t know how she does it. Ms. Rio boldly has proclaimed her pizza as the “Best Pizza in South El Monte” and she was happy to give me a tour.

Readers know that I like De Pillar’s in Rosemead and Mama Petrillo’s in Temple City and we have worked on a couple projects with Jerry over at the Post on Peck Road but Pam’s operation is impressive and she is ready to back up her claim of being the “Best”.

I detected an accent and found out Pam Rio is from Chicago. I ask her what kind of pizza she was serving, Chicago style, New York? That’s when she got vague. Seems the love is in the crust but wouldn’t let the cat (dough?) out of the bag! Ah, a secret family recipe. I don’t know what it is about women and their family secret recipes, but Pam wasn’t giving it up.

I have the same problem with Ly-

nette Rausch. For years Ms. Rausch has been bringing carrot cakes to fund raisers and I have been trying to get her recipe. Like Pam she ain’t giving it up. Men aren’t like that.

Everyone knows that Jeff Seymore makes the greatest chocolate chip cookies in town and if you ask him he’ll tell you what’s in them. Go to any bar-b-q joint and ask the cook, “hey Biff what kind of rub are you using on your brisket?’ and he’ll tell you. Not these ladies.

I was at Congresswoman Napolitano’s 2019 Volunteers of the Year “Unsung Heroes” Ceremony last week, two of our local heroes, El Monte Police Reserve Officer Rudy Sanchez and Lynette Rausch were among the honorees. In her bio, citing her many years of volunteer service to the communities of South El Monte & El Monte it mentioned her carrot cake. I was sitting at the same table so I thought that maybe in the spirit of volunteerism she might give me her recipe.

I was wrong.

Welcome to South El Monte Pam. I am sure that Rio’s Pizza is going to do great here and I doubt that you are going to have any trouble defending your bold statement: “The Best Pizza in South El Monte”.

Congrats to you Lynette Rausch for all of the time you have given Cracker Barrel continued on page 15

“Connie’s Comments” One of the good things about getting older, in my perspective, is that one is almost invisible. Younger people, (35 years old and younger), don’t appear to see you. That’s absolutely wonderful if you are a people watcher. But horrible if you are looking for something in a department store.

Several weeks ago, I was sitting at my favorite video poker machine at the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas and I was watching the young folk strutting down the main aisle, near the nightclub. Young men dressed in what I like to call “church wear.” They wore dress slacks, white

by Connie Keenan El Monte shirts, some in well-cut suits all looking prosperous and handsome.

Every well-dressed young lady The young ladies dressed in frocks also sported false eyelashes. These that shined and sparkled; shoes with too, we wore in the 70s. heels so tall it was a wonder they “I have mink eyelashes,” a sweet didn’t walk at a slant. But it was the young thing said to me when I commakeup trends that had me amused. plimented her on her lashes.

‘Beauty trends keep coming back’, “They’re so easy. I don’t have to I thought to myself. take them off. And another good Do any of you remember Frownthing is I don’t have to wear masies? My grandmother wore them cara,” she said. religiously. They are tiny wing or “Can you shower with them on?” triangular pieces of heavy paper with I asked. “I would think they’d get glue on the back. One would place tangled.” them between the eyebrows to re“Oh yeah, I have to make sure they mind you not to squint your eyes or don’t get wet, cuz, yeah, they do get furl your forehead. I saw something tangles and it’s really hard to get similar on Facebook last week. them to look normal,” she said. With Eyeliner has made a great comea bell-like giggle she said, “I just get back I noticed. The lines are similar them redone if that happens.” to those of the 1970s. Except back Yeah, I think I like this growing then, if one was really trendy, a cololder stuff. I don’t wear eyeliner orful line in lavender, blue or white, because I can’t see where I’m placwould be swiped along the top of the Connie’s Comments continued on page 15 black eyeliner.

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June 12, 2019 June 12, 2019

Mid Valley News Mid Mid Valley Valley News News

What is Real Estate Crowdfunding You’ve probably heard of crowdfunding in relation to start­ups, charitable causes and personal projects. But did you know that this internet­based method of raising money is also becoming a popular way of funding real estate development?

Real estate crowdfunding involves many people pooling their money together to finance a real estate project.

Websites like Fundrise and RealtyMogul have expanded on the basic model used by well­known websites like Kickstarter and GoFundMe to turn the concept of crowdfunding into an investment tool.

The crowdsourcing model offers opportunities to individuals who wouldn’t otherwise be financially able to make large investments in real estate.

There are two basic types of real estate

crowdfunding investment: debt crowdfunding and equity crowdfunding.

In the first scenario, investors pay for the loan needed to cover the construction costs for the building project and are compensated as the property owners make mortgage payments.

With equity crowdfunding, investors buy equity in real estate to become become partial owners and earn money through rent and property sales.

If you’d like to invest in real estate but are worried about the costs and responsibilities, real estate crowdfunding may represent the right investment opportunity for you.

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California Housing Affordability Climbs in First Quarter 2019 More Californians could afford to purchase a home in the first quarter of 2019 as lower mortgage interest rates and cooler seasonal home prices combined with higher income levels to improve California housing affordability, the Arcadia Association of REALTORS said today.

The percentage of home buyers who could afford to purchase a median­priced, existing single­ family home in California in first­ quarter 2019 rose to 32 percent from 28 percent in the fourth quarter of 2018 and from 31 percent in the first quarter a year ago, according to the California Association of REALTORS Traditional Housing Affordability Index (HAI). The index climbed above 30 percent for the first time in a year.

California’s housing affordability index hit a peak of 56 percent in the first quarter of 2012.

C.A.R.’s HAI measures the percentage of all households that can afford to purchase a median­priced, single­family home in California.

C.A.R. also reports affordability indices for regions and select counties within the state.

The index is considered the most fundamental measure of housing well­being for home buyers in the state.

A minimum annual income of $114,860 was needed to qualify

for the purchase of a $545,820 statewide median­priced, existing single­family home in the first quarter of 2019. The monthly payment, including taxes and insurance on a 30­ year, fixed­rate loan, would be $2,870, assuming a 20 percent down payment and an effective composite interest rate of 4.62 percent. The effective composite interest rate was 4.95 percent in fourth­quarter 2018 and 4.44 percent in first­quarter 2018.

Housing affordability for condominiums and townhomes also improved in first­quarter 2019 compared to the previous quarter, with 41 percent of California households earning the minimum income to qualify for the purchase of a $450,000 median­priced condominium/ townhome, up from 37 percent in the previous quarter.

An annual income of $94,690 was required to make monthly payments of $2,370. Thirty­nine percent of households could afford to buy a condominium/townhome a year ago.

Compared with California, more than half of the nation’s households (57 percent) could afford to purchase a $254,800 median­priced home, which required a minimum annual income of $53,620 to make monthly payments of $1,340.

Rio Hondo Community Development Corporation Providing Affordable Housing and Economic Development in El Monte Since 2003 www.RioHondocdc.org

May 29, 2019 June 12, 2019

Mid Valley News

How to do a Landlord Background Check When filling out a rental application, you’re expected to provide the landlord with all kinds of personal information, including references, pay stubs and a credit check. In most cases, however, renters sign a lease without knowing much about the person they’re entering into a contract with.

Before committing to a lease, you should find out everything you can about your future landlord.

Otherwise, you could end up with someone who doesn’t respond to urgent maintenance requests or who doesn’t treat tenants with fairness and respect. Here are some precautions to take:

of property ownership and court proceedings will reveal if a landlord has been linked to code violations, evictions, foreclosures or small claims court settlements. Most public registries can be accessed online.

Talk to the neighbors. Ask other tenants about their experiences living in the area and whether they’ve had problems with the landlord. They may be willing to tell you things about the property the landlord doesn’t want you to know.

Above all, trust your instincts.

If the price seems far too low or the landlord tries to rush you through the rental application process, it’s a good idea to keep looking.

Look for information online.

Search the landlord’s name and the property address with words like “complaints,” “review,” “bedbugs” and “eviction.” With notorious landlords, you’ll often find numerous complaints about similar issues.

Check public records. Public records

Common New Homeowner Mistakes to Avoid Now that the papers are signed and you’ve finally moved into your new home, it’s time to think about the responsibilities that come with owning property. Here are three mistakes to avoid when you first become a homeowner.

When you’ve rented for a long time, you may not realize all the work that goes into property upkeep.

Be sure to stay on top of routine maintenance tasks — checking smoke alarms, changing furnace filters, inspecting the roof, etc. — from the moment you move in.

Making changes too quickly. Give yourself time to get used to your new home before making major renovations or even smaller alterations like painting the walls

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Tips for Marketing Your Home to Millenial Buyers

These days, it’s important to appeal to millennial buyers when putting your home up for sale.

Born between the years 1980 and 2000, this generation is becoming the largest demographic in the country buying houses, accounting for 66 percent of first­time homebuyers.

Here’s how to get the attention of this young but powerful segment of the housing market.

Make your home move­in ready. Because of their busy lifestyles and limited financial resources, millennials want to buy turnkey properties they can move into right away rather than fixer­uppers they’ll have to put time and money into restoring.

Create an enticing online listing. Since over 90 percent of today’s buyers find homes using the internet, it’s important to perfect your property’s

online listing.

Consider hiring a professional to help you stage and take photos of your home.

Include eco­friendly features. Millennials tend to be more concerned about environmental issues than their parents; they’re looking for “green” homes that are energy efficient, incorporate sustainable materials and include special features like solar panels.

Use the latest real estate technology. The first generation to grow up with the internet, millennials rely on technology to obtain information, communicate and make transactions.

Make sure your agent uses the latest mobile apps, virtual tours and e­signature technologies, and has a strong social media presence.

Appealing to millennials may require extra effort, but it’s worth ensuring that your home is catching the eye of all interested potential buyers.

Three Tips for Negotiating a Retail Property Lease

or redoing the floors. Living in the space will help you figure out what changes need to happen to make it feel more like a home.

Taking on repairs yourself.

Don’t DIY repairs and renovations that you don’t have professional experience with. Trying to do major repairs on your own — especially ones that involve pipes or wires — can have disastrous results.

Avoiding these pitfalls will If you’re a small business owner just starting out on a new help you get the most out of your new venture, chances are that you don’t house and prevent many headaches have a lot of experience negotiating a down the road. retail property lease.

With the right negotiating skills, however, you’ll be able to strike a great deal. Here are just three tips for getting a great retail property lease.

Don’t be afraid to ask for additions to the contract Almost inevitably, building owners will have more negotiating experience than you. That doesn’t mean, however, that you should be afraid to make demands.

You can ask, for example, for

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Contact Michael McClure (626) 235-0943

an exclusivity clause that will ensure no competing businesses are allowed to move into the building during your tenancy.

Take the time to get it right You’ll be surprised how often building owners get mysterious, unnamed competing offers once you declare interest in a property.

Owners will often try to inspire competitive feelings and make you think you need to rush into a deal that isn’t as advantageous for you as it could be. Don’t fall for these tricks. Take the time you need to get the deal you want.

Get the best professional help The best way to protect your business’s interests is to assemble the right team of lawyers, accountants and real estate agents to advocate for your interests in any negotiation.

They have the expertise required to get the job done right.

Good negotiation of a retail lease is the first step to positive cash flow.

Page 8Page 8

Mid Valley News Mid Valley News

May 29, 2019 June 12, 2019

Love and Money: 8 Tips for Couples to Improve their Finances Review your insurance annually Protect what counts, by checking your coverage annually and making updates to your policies as your circumstances change (i.e. you get married, buy a home, have children, etc.).

(StatePoint) When love and romance are in the air, talking about finances may be the last thing on one's mind. However, experts say that regular conversations about money are essential for healthy finances and healthy relationships.

Unfortunately, 47 percent of Americans say their spending equals or exceeds their income, and 45 percent do not have enough savings to cover at least three months worth of living expenses, according to a 2018 study by the Center for Financial Services Innovation. To help you and your partner get the conversation started and get your finances on track, the professionals at Wells Fargo are offering eight tips:

Save for a better retirement Save at least 10 percent of your income each year for a more comfortable retirement.

Bottom line While it's not always easy to address financial matters, doing so can save your relationship headache and heartache down the line. interest debt that's costing you the most first.

Pay yourself first With each paycheck, set aside some income for savings. Whether it's for a rainy­day fund or the downpayment of a house, you and your partner can discuss how to prioritize savings for the greatest impact. This may also be a good time to discuss whether it makes more sense to have a joint account or retain individual savings accounts.

Pay on time, every time.

If you're like many couples, you Create a safety net have dreams for your future. Paying Do you have emergency savings bills on time will improve and that would cover three to six months maintain your credit score, which will worth of expenses? This is a basic open the door for greater financial measure of financial security that you and your partner can work on building opportunities down the line and help you make these dreams a reality. together.

Track your spending Do you know where your money is going each month? Online tools and apps make tracking easier than ever

Know where your credit stands Pay down your high­interest debt To tackle debt proactively and save Check your free credit report annually and spot trends. money in the long run, it helps to be strategic, starting with the highest­

before, helping you gain insights into your spending habits so you can adjust where necessary.

Personal Finance Tips for Freelancers

When freelancing is your main source of income, it can be difficult to maintain a budget. Here are tips for managing your finances as a freelancer.

Estimate Your Income For Budgeting Purposes To determine your projected monthly income as a freelancer, figure out what you expect to earn from your regular clients. Then, approximate the total amount that you think you’ll earn from one­off and non­regular clients.

Divide this number in half and add it to your estimated earnings from regular clients. Using the resulting amount as your monthly income will allow you to make a budget that has a built­in buffer in case it’s a slow month.

Keep A Separate Account for Business Purposes Have separate business and

personal bank accounts so you can keep track of work expenses like software and office equipment. You should also have at least one savings account that you contribute to regularly. As a freelancer with irregular income, it’s especially important to have savings.

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Financial Literacy: What You Need to Know

Plan for Taxes When you aren’t an employee, you need to set aside around 25 per cent of your income for taxes. Make sure to keep all invoices and payment receipts so you’re prepared for tax season. If you work from home, you’ll likely be able to claim things like internet bills If you’ve spent any time reading financial news lately, you’ve come and office supplies as business across the term financial literacy. The expenses on your taxes. goal behind teaching financial literacy is to help people understand basic Since taxes for freelancers are financial concepts. particularly complicated, it’s a good That’s a worthy goal, especially idea to hire an accountant to do your when you consider nearly four out of taxes so you don’t make mistakes or every five U.S. workers live paycheck miss possible deductions. to paycheck, over a quarter never save any money from month to month, almost 75% are in some form of debt, and most assume they always will be.

With those numbers, it’s no surprise that leaders in business, education and government want to help spread the benefits of financial literacy to as many people as possible.

As more people become aware of the importance of financial literacy, we should be asking: What skills, traits and best practices do people show who are “financially literate”?

And, How does this skill set really affect personal finance?

How Many People Are Financially

Literate?

The National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) reports less than half of participants passed a test that covered personal­finance related topics —and the average test taker answered 63% of the questions correctly.

On the bright side, there’s a trend in the other direction: Ramsey Solutions Research surveyed over 76,000 Americans students and found that students who had taken a course in personal finance understood key financial topics such as the difference between credit cards and debit cards (86%), how student loans work (94%), and what a 401(k) is and how it works (79%).

By now, you’ve got a pretty good sense of where you stand in terms of your own financial literacy. Maybe you have a lot to learn, but it’s encouraging to know that increasing financial literacy could transform whole families, communities and even the nation.

May 29, 2019 June 12, 2019

Page 10Page 9

Mid Valley News Mid Valley News

The Insurance Almost Everyone Needs Ultimately, the insurance coverage needed by a given individual is determined by their unique circumstances. But regardless if you’re married or single, with or without children, renting or buying a home, you’ll likely need most—if not all—of the following types of insurance.

Health insurance Medical expenses can literally bankrupt you if you aren’t adequately insured. If you’re over the age of 25, you’re no longer eligible for coverage under your parents’ insurance policy and will need to get your own. Many employers offer health insurance programs; if yours does not, you’ll need to locate your own provider.

Life insurance If you don’t have a spouse or dependants, then it’s reasonable to give this type of insurance a pass.

Otherwise, term life insurance is a necessity to ensure that your family is taken care of in the event of your unexpected demise.

Affordable American Cities For Retireees

it, you’ll receive a monthly income if ever you incur an illness or injury that When it comes to retirement prevents you from being able to savings, the average American falls work. short.

An estimated two­thirds of working Auto insurance families fail to meet even conservative If you’re content to commute by retirement savings targets, and nearly public transit, you can forego this type seven in ten Americans have less than of insurance. For everyone else, auto $1,000 in their savings account. insurance is a must. Car insurance The end result: many will rely on plans vary, and coverage can be more Social Security benefits to survive. or less extensive depending on your However, the amount individuals can needs. expect to receive is modest, with the average monthly check coming in at Home or renters insurance $1,360.

Home insurance is only mandatory Affordable living is a necessity in for homeowners, but renters are also such circumstances. One way to keep wise to purchase insurance to cover costs low is to choose the city you their items in the event of fire, flood retire in carefully. Though there are or theft. plenty more, here are some options to consider.

Columbus, Ohio Housing is inexpensive and the cost of living is low in this river city in the Buckeye State. As an economically prosperous state capital, Columbus is home to all the amenities you’ll need plus a wide variety of recreational options.

Austin, Texas With its healthy housing market and absence of state taxes, Austin is a budget­friendly city for retirees to consider. Sunny weather, a lively music scene and one of the country’s best universities make it an enjoyable location in which to spend your golden years.

Salt Lake City, Utah With 16 doctors available for every thousand people, this mountain town Tucson, Arizona The Grand Canyon State is among the is well equipped to handle all manner most tax­friendly for retirees. Income of medical needs. While housing here is pricier than in the cities listed taxes are low and there’s a complete above, the fantastic public absence of state taxes on Social Security. Housing is affordable and a transportation system makes it year­round warm climate means you’ll feasible to give up your car and maintain a prudent budget. also save on winter heating costs.

Disability insurance This insurance is suited to anyone who needs to work for a living. With

How Financial Stress Impacts Your Health Researchers have long known that money worries contribute to health worries. Financial stresses have been linked to migraine, cardiovascular disease, absences from work, insomnia, and more. It's well documented, also, that financial stresses can negatively affect mental health, and contribute to depression and other mood disorders, according to an article published in August 2013 in the journal Social Science & Medicine.

“Financial stress can be one of the most difficult kinds of stresses, particularly because people can adopt unhealthy coping mechanisms as a result,” says Nancy Molitor, PhD, clinical assistant professor of psychology and behavioral sciences at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago.

According to a 2014 American Psychological Association survey, 33 percent of Americans reported eating unhealthy foods or eating too much to deal with stress. In the 2017 survey, another 45 percent reported lying awake at night at least once a month.

These findings suggest that your physical and mental health can directly benefit from having healthy finances.

“There’s definitely hope — most people in their lives have periods of

financial stress, and everybody’s had these things happen,” Dr. Molitor says. “What makes it worse is to do nothing. Don’t panic. Take a step back, breathe, make a plan, and ask for help when needed.”

Molitor recommends taking the following four steps: Assess your current situation.

What spending steps got you to this point? Most often, there are several occurrences leading up to the event. This is not to cause increased guilt, but instead helps to identify behaviors that can be changed to

improve your future.

Identify your relationship with money.

If you have a partner, discuss your relationship with money. This could be part of a search for comfort, luxury, love, power, or something else. Identifying your deeper relationship with money and recognizing that it does not guarantee happiness or security can allow you to move forward.

Ask for help

A trusted friend, financial advisor, senior center, church, community agency, or even your bank can be useful resources for those in financial need.

Make a budget and follow it While just thinking about the B­ word can be stressful, Molitor says that a budget can often be empowering. The most important thing is to make it a realistic budget.

Just as it took time to get to this point, it will take time to get out of it. But that doesn’t mean you should stop trying.

“It’s the start of a whole new relationship with money,” Molitor says.

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Page 10 Page 10

June 12, 2019 June 12, 2019

Mid Valley News Mid Valley News

California Energy Companies Announce Wildfire Preparedness Campaign Around Public Safety Power Shutoffs California’s three largest energy companies announced a coordinated wildfire safety and awareness campaign to prepare Californians for extreme weather and power outages during times of increased wildfire danger.

The statewide Power of Being Prepared campaign is being led jointly by Southern California Edison (SCE), San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), at the direction of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). It is a call to action for all Californians to take important steps to get ready before the 2019 wildfire season, such as creating a thorough emergency plan and updating their contact information with their energy company.

According to a recent report released by Governor Gavin Newsom’s Strike Force addressing wildfire issues, “More than 25 million acres of California wildlands are classified as under very high or extreme fire threat. Approximately 25 percent of the state’s population – 11

plan and an emergency kit. The Power of Being Prepared campaign provides customers with specific steps to be ready should there be an extended power outage that lasts multiple days.

million people – lives in that high­risk area.”

“Wildfires are a real and growing threat in California,” said Denise Everhart, Pacific Division Disaster Executive of the American Red Cross. “Now more than ever it is critical that Californians be ready for the unexpected and prepare their emergency kits, download the Red Cross Emergency App, outline a family plan and practice safety drills before the need arises. Education, awareness

and preparedness can make a difference in keeping families safe and saving lives.”

Public Safety Power Shutoff Energy companies turn off power to fire prone areas during extreme weather events as a safety precaution. While Public Safety Power Shutoffs are more likely to occur in high fire­risk areas, all Californians could be impacted by emergency events and need to be prepared with a

What to Expect The decision to turn off power is made by each energy company and is based on a combination of factors including high winds, low humidity, dry vegetation and conditions on the ground. Power outages could last multiple days, depending on the severity of weather conditions and other factors, so it is important for everyone to have an emergency plan in place.

Energy companies will send early warning notifications via phone calls, text alerts, emails and other means before turning off power.

Energy companies are all working with customers to ensure they have updated contact information on file and are able to reach customers before, during and after a Public Safety Power Shutoff event.

CEA and iHeart Media Raise $176K for American Red Cross Disaster­ Preparedness and Relief Efforts in California The eighth annual Get Prepared, California! Auction —sponsored by the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) and coordinated by iHeartMedia, Inc. —raised $175,882 in 2019. Auction proceeds will be dedicated to American Red Cross disaster­ preparedness and relief efforts in California.

The 2019 Get Prepared, California! Auction, which featured numerous one­of­a­kind items, was open for bidding April 1 through April 30. Unique items up for bid included meet­and­greets with Jennifer Lopez, Gwen Stefani, and New Kids on the Block; a ride on the Goodyear Blimp, a trip to attend an NFL game in London, and unique sports experiences with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Clippers and Chargers.

Total proceeds were announced last Saturday, June 1, through an on­stage check presentation to the American Red Cross during KIIS FM’s Wango Tango concert in Los Angeles presented by JUVÉDERM. “The Get Prepared, California! Auction is another way to help raise funds for the American Red Cross while reminding

Californians to get ready for our state’s next damaging earthquake,” said CEA CEO Glenn Pomeroy. “Getting ready now will help us all get back to normal sooner after California’s next big one strikes.”

Most Californians live within 30 miles of an active fault. Scientists say there is more than a 99 percent chance that a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake will strike our state within the next 30 years.

The Get Prepared, California!

Auction has raised a total of $1,405,882 in funding since it began in

2012. Proceeds allow enough funding for the American Red Cross to distribute more than 200,000 blankets at shelters, distribute more than 100,000 hot meals in communities or provide more than 400,000 “comfort kits” full of toiletries and personal items people might need following a natural disaster.

“We are pleased to count on partners such as the California Earthquake Authority and iHeartMedia to support the American Red Cross promoting preparedness and resiliency across California,” said Jarrett Barrios,

CEO of the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region. “For nearly a decade, the funds raised in this auction have helped provide the resources needed to support disaster­ relief efforts in our communities.”

To learn more about the auction and how to prepare to survive and recover from California’s next damaging earthquake, visit GetPreparedCalifornia.org.

The California Earthquake Authority (CEA) is a not­for­profit, privately funded, publicly managed organization that provides residential earthquake insurance and encourages Californians to reduce their risk of earthquake loss. Learn more at EarthquakeAuthority.com.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families.

The Red Cross is a not­for­profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, From left: Amira Seaboch, American Red Cross Los Angeles Region; Chad please visit redcross.org or Preacher, iHeartMedia; Pamela Diaz, California Earthquake Authority; and cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Chris Nance, California Earthquake Authority.

Next Meeting of the El Monte / South El Monte Emergency Preparedness Coalition

Monday, June 24, 2019 1­4:30 pm El Monte Senior Center

June 12, 2019 September June 12, 30, 2019 2015

Mid Valley News Mid Valley News

Next Meeting of the El Monte / South El Monte Emergency Preparedness Coalition

Page 11 Page Page 119

Monday, June 24, 2019 1­4:30 pm El Monte Senior Center

On behalf of The Mid Valley News and The Mid Valley Media Center, we want you to know we are grateful and deeply appreciate the time you spend away from your families and the personal risks you take as a firefighter to protect us.

EMPD are Guardians of the Flame as Part of 2019 Special Olympics

Known as Guardians of the Flame, dozens of law enforcement officers kept the “Flame of Hope” alive through the San Gabriel Valley as part of a nine­day Torch Run to raise funds and awareness for the Special Olympics Southern California.

Runners started carrying the torch at 7:30 a.m. last Thursday in Irwindale before heading through West Covina, Baldwin Park, El Monte, Monrovia, Arcadia, Temple City, San Gabriel, Monterey Park, Montebello, Pico Rivera, Downey, Santa Fe Springs and ending near Buena Park.

Over 97,000 law enforcement members that carry the “Flame of Hope” annually. The flame symbolizes courage and celebration of diversity uniting communities around the globe.

Torch Run has grown over the years and now includes many fundraising platforms. These platforms include: Plane Pulls, Polar Plunges, Tip­A­Cops, and more.

Since the beginning, LETR has raised

over $600 million for Special Olympics programs.

As retired Chief Richard LaMunyon once said, “What started in 1981...as a flicker of hope for Special Olympics has now become a roaring flame of stability for Special Olympics athletes worldwide.”

LETR is changing the future for people with intellectual disabilities.

Through the LETR and Special Olympics partnership we are lighting the way for acceptance and inclusion.

To learn more about LETR, visit www.letr.org

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Page 12

Mid Valley News

June 12, 2019

Kranz Intermediate Students Explore the Sea through the Top Sail Program

by M. Earle, Contributing Writer, Mountain View School District El Monte

Students in Kranz Intermediate School’s TopSail program set sail for a half day educational adventure aboard the Irving Johnson, a 110 foot vessel, the Official Tall Ship of the City of Los Angeles, as part of the Los Angeles Maritime Institute’s TopSail Program.

The TopSail Program provides an educational venue in the ocean on board classic-rigged sailing vessels.

The program enriches, validates and challenges conventional school curricula by bringing biology, mathematics, physics, geography, history, literature and the environment to life in the real world classroom of the sea. It is a program that teaches

youth the importance of teamwork, cooperation and self-esteem through training on how to be a crew member aboard a tall ship.

While aboard the ship for their half-day sailing adventure, students had a great time exploring and gaining an understanding of the marine environment through hands-on experiences such as raising and trimming sails; standing lookout in the bow; taking the helm and steering the course; seamanship; navigation; marine biology; oceanography; and bravely climbing the rigging to furl sails.

Additional skills gained from the program and while aboard the ship included team-building, problemsolving, decision-making, planning, self-reliance and leadership.

Along with the L.A. Maritime staff, the students were accompanied by Kranz teacher and TopSail coordinator, Camille Osburn. Kranz Intermediate in the Mountain View School District has participated in the TopSail program for several

years, providing an extraordinary experience for students and fostering their environmental awareness and Ocean Literacy, as well as inspiring them to pursue maritime and STEM careers.

Rio Hondo College Celebrates Class of 2019 - Awards Historic First Bachelor of Science Degrees

by Staff Writer National

Rio Hondo College celebrated 1,828 graduates during its 56th annual Commencement ceremony on May 23, including 16 students who received the College’s first- ever Bachelor of Science degrees.

Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss congratulated graduates at the program’s beginning.

“Our dedication to Rio Hondo students is seen in the increased number of graduates who receive associate degrees, the increased number of graduates who transfer to fouryear universities and the increased number of graduates who enter into vocational and professional careers,” Dreyfuss said.

“Today, we also celebrate our firstever Bachelor of Science graduates in automotive technology,” she said.

“This marks a historic accomplishment in California’s community

college system, as we are one of only 15 community colleges in the entire state that offer four-year degrees.”

Dreyfuss, who was presiding over her final graduation before retiring June 30, also recognized the 2019 recipient of the Distinguished Faculty Award, Professor John Frala.

Frala has led efforts in the automotive technology major and helped the College secure a landmark partnership with Tesla to train auto technicians. This spring, the third cohort of students graduated, all finding immediate employment with Tesla.

The event featured a keynote by Rio Hondo College alumnus Dr. Luis S. Garcia, who advocates for marginalized communities as the director of programs and services at the Weingart Center in Downtown Los Angeles.

Garcia, who struggled in high Rio Hondo continued on page 15

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June 12, 2019

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into Summer Fun C R O S S W O R D

S u d o k u

Crossword Puzzle solution in issue 06.26.19

Solution for Sudoku in issue 06.26.19

FATHER’S DAY

ACROSS 1. Use elbow grease 6. Goody bag stuff 10. “_e_ _ect,” song 13. Singer Lenya 14. Band’s work-related trip 15. Capt.’s prediction 16. Assumed name 17. Debate side 18. Schumer or McConnell, abbr.

19. *Founding father with no biological children 21. Runs, as on TV 22. Last letter 23. *Dad’s mom 25. Ready for confrontation 29. *This before becoming father?

31. Lakes in Scotland 32. Opposite of post33. Henry VI had 6 37. Not in port 38. Have a bug 39. ____ of faith 40. *Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor’s dad 42. Layer 43. Ouzo flavor 44. Like farm-to-table 46. Made 50-50 47. Phony 50. “Wheel of Fortune” vowel request 51. Parts of play 52. *Dad to Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack 59. However, poetically 60. Coconut fiber 61. Dostoyevsky novel, with “The” 62. Once around 63. Japanese zither 64. It can be firma or incognita 65. Ill temper 66. Place at an angle 67. Ten of these before a first down

DOWN 1. BBQ side 2. Fizzy drink 3. “The Dock of the Bay” singer 4. Four Corners state 5. Turns large into medium 6. “All the world’s a ____” 7. Refuses to 8. Grand theft target 9. Disparaging term for foreigners in Mexico 10. Pine product 11. Harsh 12. Popular annual flower 20. *Dad to Rod and Todd on “The Simpsons” 21. *Christopher Robin’s father 24. Column’s counterpart 25. Boring 26. Santa ____, CA 27. Tennis serving whiz 28. *Prince William’s dad 29. *Dad’s favorite cooking device?

30. Bank on 32. *The biggest bear 34. Tube in a body 35. Convenience 36. Hightailed it 41. ____Tube 43. Eagerness 45. Painful body spasms 46. Between NE and E 47. *What patriot and patriarch have in common 48. Autumn color 49. Ben Franklin invention 50. Found in a quiver 53. Cozy corner 54. Make a reference 55. Over head light?

56. 100 cents in Ethiopia 57. Master of his castle 58. #15 Across, pl.

Students Flex Their Mental Muscle at 18th Annual Chess Competition

By M. Earle, Mountain View School District El Monte

The Mountain View School District (MVSD) continues to provide engaging and enriching opportunities for students outside of the classroom to enhance their educational experience.

This week, students from schools throughout the district competed in the annual MVSD Chess Competition, showing their competency in the mental game of strategy, tactics and analysis.

The tournament was divided into three levels based on years of experience playing the game. The competition was intense as the students calculated their moves, strategized and maneuvered their pieces with the ultimate goal of checkmating their opponents’ King.

Several MVSD schools have Chess Clubs which meet regularly providing students the opportunity to learn the game and perfect their skills.

An excellent educational tool, the game of chess engages players in strategic thinking as they weigh their options and make decisions

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on their next moves. Just like in school, while playing a game of chess, concentration and memory are key.

Playing chess also enhances critical thinking skills as players calculate their plan of attack or defense on the board. Additionally, playing chess teaches persistence, patience and builds self-confidence which are all great characteristics for life.

As the battles on the chess boards unfolded and the students moved their bishops, knights, pawns, queens and kings, their sense of pride in their play was evident.

“These young chess players make us very proud,” said Dr. Jeff Lagozzino, Director of Student Learning Support. “Their skills, enthusiasm and good sportsmanship are commendable and we appreciate the efforts of our school site chess coaches and competition coordinators for providing such a great event for students.”

At the conclusion of the competition, all the competitors received a 2019 Chess Competition Medal and the top five players were awarded with a championship level chess board.

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Mid Valley News

June 12, 2019

June 12, 2019

LA County Board of Supervisors to Support Mixed-Status Families

by Slim Randles El Monte

Under current federal law, undocumented immigrants and immigrants who have been victims of domestic violence or sexual assault are ineligible for public housing subsidies, but they can live with their mixed-status family if a relative in their household is eligible for federal housing assistance.

However, last month the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposed a rule change to deny families from obtaining subsidized housing if any family member is ineligible.

In response, the Board of Supervisors approved a motion, authored by Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and co-authored by Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, which calls for the implementation of a Countywide plan that will prevent families from being evicted if this HUD proposal is enacted and they are impacted.

On May 14, the Board voted unanimously to oppose HUD’s proposal, which would require all residents in federally subsidized housing under the age of 62 to undergo verification of their immigration status through the Department of Homeland Security.

The Supervisors also approved sending five-signature letters to HUD Secretary Ben Carson and to the LA County Congressional delegation to register the County’s opposition to this HUD proposal.

In addition, the Supervisors instructed the LA County Development Authority/ Housing Authority of the County of Los Angeles (LACDA) to submit comments

to HUD to convey how this proposed rule could exacerbate the County’s homeless crisis.

Today’s Board motion directs County Counsel to analyze the proposed rule change and monitor any legal action aimed at challenging the proposed rule to prevent it from taking effect and present recommendations to the Board to possibly file and/or join in as amicus or as a plaintiff in litigation, if appropriate.

The motion also instructs LACDA’s Executive Director, along with the County’s Chief Executive Officer, the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) and the Office of Immigrant Affairs (OIA), the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, Coordinated Entry System Lead Agencies for Families, the Department of Public Social Services, and County Counsel, to strategically reach out to vulnerable families who may be evicted through a culturally and linguistically inclusive plan that will include recommendations to prevent families from being displaced.

This Board motion also instructs that the County identify rental programs that could supplant federal subsidies for affected families so that these families could remain together in one household.

County departments are expected to report back in 60 days.

This motion also directs all County departments and agencies to refer all questions about this HUD proposal to DCBA. It also directs OIA in consultation with LACDA, County Counsel, and other affected Departments, along with community-based immigration and housing rights organizations, to draft an Families continued on page 16

City of South El Monte Community Services Department

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Rio Hondo continued from page 12

school and earned his diploma while incarcerated, urged students to be lifelong learners who contribute to their community, focus on the positive and “walk into your loveliness.”

“As you leave here this evening ready to turn all your hard work and your dreams into reality, I hope you never lose the will to learn,” he said.

“Hold on to your imagination. You reached one goal here this evening when you earned your degree or certificate but remember this is an intermediate goal that has prepared you to take another step forward – whatever that may be.”

Board of Trustees President Gary Mendez told the graduates that he and the other College leaders understand what it took for them to succeed.

“Over 30 years ago, I sat where you are today. I attended Rio Hondo and, like it was for you, it wasn’t easy,” Mendez said. “I was a homeless student at times while attending Rio Hondo. I slept in garages, on top of garages and here in the hills of Rio Hondo. I wasn’t alone. There were many other students under similar circumstances. We didn’t complain, and I certainly didn’t want anyone to know. I’m sharing this with you because we know the struggle and obstacles you overcame and endured to be here. I want to acknowledge that struggle.”

Valedictorian Hanh “Jenny” Pham, who earned a 4.0 GPA, was honored with the Pellissier Family Award. As an immigrant from Hanoi, Vietnam, Pham arrived in the U.S. about four years ago. An early childhood education and accounting double major, she plans to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Cal State Fullerton.

Tiffany Nunez, who helped create and implement the College’s food pantry, gave the student address.

Nunez served as both secretary and vice president of the ASRHC as well as a member of the College’s Presidential Search Committee.

Nunez, who will be transferring to UC Santa Barbara to study communications, said all of the graduates should be proud of their success.

“All the choices we make in life represent who we are. We made the choice to get out of bed every morning, to hike up that hill and get to class,” she said. “We have the dedication to reach our goals and receive our degrees.”

“As I look at all of you beautiful people, in your caps and gowns, I hope that each and every one of you are proud of yourselves, because this is a huge accomplishment. Class of 2019, we are finally getting this degree!” Nunez said.

In addition, the event honored four graduates who overcame significant challenges in pursuit of their degree: Eduardo Gonzalez, Kristian Lozano,

Connie’s Comments continued from page 5

ing the line. I don’t wear false eye lashes because my eyelids rebel. It’s

Cracker Barrel continued from page 5

volunteering in the community. I

Luisa Mesones and Kevin Skinner.

After high school, Gonzalez worked two part-time jobs to support his family. A survivor of Hirschsprung’s disease as a baby, he decided to seek a degree in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, earning associate degrees in biology and chemistry. He is considering seeking a four-year degree in life science or biochemistry at a Cal State or UC campus.

Lozano, who is part of the College’s Pathway to Law School program, was honored for his service to the College and dedication to his studies. Lozano earned a 4.0 in three consecutive semesters and served as vice president of the Pre-Law Society.

He led planning of events such as a Pathway to Law School/Ferias Legales Mentorship Mixer. He has earned an Associate Degree for Transfer in philosophy and will continue his studies at UC Berkeley as a philosophy major. He will receive priority admission review at eight partner law schools, including UCLA, Loyola Marymount, UC Davis, UC Berkeley and UC Irvine.

Mesones, a grandmother, is a returning student who married young and raised a family as a single mother. After battling and defeating fibromyalgia and breast cancer, she reignited a childhood love of language and enrolled in a French class at Rio Hondo College. This passion of Mesones’ led to deeper, more comprehensive studies. She will graduate with four degrees – communications studies, social behavior and self-development, art and human expression, and social studies. She will transfer to UC Berkeley.

Skinner, a former Marine sergeant, maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout his Rio Hondo College career. He mentored fellow veterans at Rio Hondo College and served as president of the Veterans Club. He organized Veterans Week activities and spoke at community events, including the College’s 9/11 Memorial. Skinner earned an Associate of Science in general studies with an emphasis in science and mathematics. He will study environmental science and engineering at Harvard University.

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lipstick and sometimes mascara for me. But you know what? I bet if I wore Frownies in a department store I’d get help.

may never understand “Women and their recipes” but I will keep eating Lynette” carrot cake and Pam’s pizzas until I figure it out for myself.

June 12, 2019

Mid Valley News

Page 16 Wellness Continued from page 1

American Red Cross tent with information on emergency preparedness.

Children’s eyes lit up at the fiction and coloring books they were able to take home with them.

Parks and Recreation’s booth featured information on healthy food and drink options. The department showcased upcoming Cultural Arts & Leisure Classes like Hip Hop Dance Classes, Salsa 4 Kids, Prince and Princess Ballet, Salsarcise, Summer Nutrients at the El Monte Aquatic Center, and Superhero Kids Canvas Paint Class.

Attendees participated in CPR,

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cooking, TaeKwonDo, and salsa demonstrations. The Day One organiza-tion, based in Pasadena, which assists communities in building healthier schools and neighborhoods showed how to make an easy snack called a Banana Sushi Roll.

USA TaeKwonDo Center exhibited their excellent skills. For a $1 kids could ride a train or have their face painted. Proceeds benefited the Junior Recreation program of the Park District.

Asked how she thought the Red White and Bounce Fair was going, Victoria Burl, the El Monte Park Dis-trict Resources Supervisor said, “It’s great to see the kids having so much fun.”

Volunteers continued from page 4

tell them it is simple – volunteer is spelled ‘L O V E.’ Thank you for bringing life to the lifeless, hope to

Working Overtime continued from page 5

themselves. I got a nice call from Gil and I can honestly say that as long as he was the District Attorney for the County of Los Angeles he never turned down a request from us.

Fast forward. I was sitting in my office and I get a call from Gil Garcetti, now retired - he wanted a favor. His son Eric was getting into politics. Eric had been teaching a class in political science at Occidental College and was going to run for a vacant seat on the L.A. City Council and Gil was asking me to help him.

I told him yes of course, then I ask one of my partners who knew more about politics than I did what Eric’s chances were. My buddy told me that there were seven or eight people running and that one of them was the former chief of staff of the previous Councilmember. They were the favorite but because it was an open seat and there was a good chance of a runoff, Eric Garcetti was one of two or three who had a shot.

My pal went with me to a campaign meeting for Eric. Gil and his wife

the hopeless, and joy to those that can’t find joy on their own.”

The volunteers’ names were submitted by their organization or community group which felt their contributions deserved special recognition.

Napolitano gave out the awards and thanked them personally.

The 2019 Volunteers of the Year

The day before, Rep. Grace Napolitano and Mayor Andre Quintero toured Outdoor Research’s brandnew, state-of-the-art-manufacturing facility to meet with the company’s workers and executives.

“I was so honored to visit Outdoor Research and congratulate them on opening their new manufacturing facility in El Monte,” Napolitano said.

“We are so glad they have chosen El Monte of all possible locations

outreach plan to inform immigrants and their families of available wraparound services if/when they contact the County for help as a result of this HUD proposal taking effect. OIA is expected to report back to the Board within 60 days.

Today’s action marks the 36th immigration motion Supervisor Solis has authored to protect, defend, and fight for the rights of immigrants since the 2016 presidential election. Her efforts include a $3 million dollar contribution to the LA Justice Fund and the creation of the first-ever County Office of Immigrant Affairs.

from El Monte are Lynette Rausch for her countless hours of service for the El Monte / South Monte Chamber of Commerce and Rudy Sanchez who’s not afraid to roll up his sleeves and get to work when something needs get done throughout our community.

Courtesy Photo by Erik Valdivia

Sports Editor: Staff

Contributing Writers

Adjudicated as a paper of general circulation in the City of El Monte, County of Los Angeles Superior Court, Nov. 7 1973.

No. C68383 official paper for the County of Los Angeles, Adjudicated on general circulation Los Angeles July 18, 1992, No. BS016380

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Families

Outdoor Research

Community Development Liaison: Mike McClure

Connie Keenan Dick James Devette Johnson Michael McClure Mike Nelson

were there, my friend and maybe one or two other older folks, and a whole lot of young people.

Those young people made history.

There was no runoff. Eric Garcetti won the race and has never looked back.

Lesson learned? Don’t ever under estimate the power of enthusiasm youngsters bring to the polls when motivated.

Courtesy Photo by Erik Valdivia

Sudoku Solution for 05.29.19

across the USA to expand their production, which is truly a testament to the skills of our workers and will continue to boost our local economy.

Currently, Outdoor Research is continuing to settle into their new home in El Monte and have sign-up sheets outside their front doors for anyone interested in working for the company, when they expand their team again.

The Outdoor Research facility is located at 10668 Hickerson Street, El Monte, CA 91731.

Crossword Solution for 05.29.19

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