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NAB Show, page 6
Chalk Talk, page 2 - 3
Vol. 54, No. 06
Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966
May 04, 2017
EMCSD 2nd Annual Speech Competition District Shows off Student Orators
by Staff Writer El Monte
There’s a saying in the music industry that the sophomore album is never as good as the first. This was not the case for El Monte City School District’s Second Annual Speech competition. Twenty-three 6th, 7th and 8th grade students commanded the Rosemead High School stage and mesmerized an audience of fellow students, parents, teachers, district administration and board members. Sixth grade tackled the topic, “What does it take for a person to be a hero?” and the seventh and eighth grade students presented an original oratory supporting or refuting the statement, “We live in a ‘just’ society”. In addition to receiving trophies for individual 1st, 2nd, & 3rd places, the first place students were awarded Speech continued on page 8
Courtesy Photos
Napolitano Honors 2017 “Unsung Heroines” Women of the Year by Staff Writer El Monte
The past, Friday, April 21, 2017, Congresswoman Grace F. Napolitano honored the 2017 “Unsung Heroines,” Women of the Year for exemplary service at an awards ceremony at the Grace T. Black Auditorium in El Monte. “Out of the goodness of their hearts, these unsung heroines serve cities, schools, churches, nonprofits, and other organizations that are vital to our San Gabriel Valley communities,” Napolitano said. “They do so without expecting praise, which is why we attempt to recognize a few of the countless, deserving volunteers each year. We honor their selfless gifts of time, labor, and energy, and we thank all of their families who offer them support and encouragement.” 21 women received the award including Tess Velasco and Donna Crippen. Each woman’s name was submitted by her volunteer organization or community group that felt her contributions deserved special recognition. Napolitano gave out the awards and thanked the women personally.
“I find great satisfaction in supporting my city and elected officials in building the vision for our community and then watching that vision come to fruition,” said Veronica Cole of the Azusa Police Department. “It is something that I personally find very rewarding because my efforts can positively impact the future environment where my kids are growing up. I enjoy partnering with those in my city who are working to provide a safe, educational and healthy place to live.” “It was an amazing feeling to be honored as a Woman of the Year by Congresswoman Napolitano,” said Patti Tris of Interfaith Council. “She and her staff put together a beautiful awards ceremony and luncheon, and it was especially awesome to personally meet my Congresswoman!” “It was a privilege and honor to receive this award and to share it with the 20 other Unsung Heroines who have done so much for their communities,” said Donna Redman of the City of La Verne. “My 17-year-old daughter was in attendance and was inspired by these women and their
Photo courtesy of Donna Crippen Heroines continued on page 8