Mid Valley News - Volume 55 Issue 15 - July 25, 2018

Sports

Community Corner

NBA page 4

Community Events, page 5

The Community Paper of Record

Vol. 55, No. 15

Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966

July 25, 2018

Mountain View School District Students Explore During Summer Science Academy

by Staff Writer El Monte

Mountain View School District’s Gifted And Talented Education (GATE) Summer Science Academy provided students with the chance to explore, discover, understand and enterprise during the 10 day program led by Dr. Richard Shope, President of World Space Foundation.

The students hosted an open house on the last day where they shared highlights of their learning including photography, operating solar telescopes, experiments with the chemistry of sodium bicarbonate and citric acid, planting a native species garden, and forming an EcoRangers Club.

MVSD Board of Education members, family members and members of Amigos de los Rios were on hand to hear and see the exciting learning that took place during the 10-day academy. With the program’s strong focus on EcoResilience, the young scientists were proud to show the garden they designed in the Madrid Nature and Exercise Trail area on Madrid Middle School’s campus, which is part of Amigos de los Rios’ Emerald Necklace.

Through extensive research students found drought resistant plants and flowers that attract Monarch and other butterfly species, as well as flowers for bees to get nectar. After researching the best layout and design for a garden, factoring in temperature, sun exposure, and radiant energy, they planted their seeds and plants.

Current and future Madrid Middle School students in the program hope to create an EcoRangers Club at the school next year to maintain the garden

and utilize the wonderful learning environment the park provides. Members of Amigos de los Rios are thrilled with the work the students did and their passion for the environment.

“This is a working laboratory,” said Claire Robinson, Managing Director of Amigos de los Rios.

“The Mountain View School District has been a leader in this initiative and the Madrid Nature area

provides a great place for discovery, physical activity, and mental improvement with its peacefulness.

We appreciate greatly Dr. Shope and the students for their great work and look forward to continuing to partner together to provide this wonderful space for the community.”

In addition to the Milkweed, Ragweed, and CoyScience Academy continued on page 8

EMUHSD Will Increase Access to Technology and Online Learning Programs

by Staff Writer El Monte

The El Monte Union High School District Board of Trustees adopted a $131 million 2018-19 budget that supports its Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP), which calls for boosting student access to technology and online learning programs, adding support staff to help the District’s highest-needs students achieve academic success and increasing the availability of community liaisons to parents.

The budget is based on a funding system that is designed to allow Districts to decide how best to use state dollars to meet the academic and social needs of students, particularly those designated as high-needs (low-income, foster care and English learners).

In 2018-19, the District will invest $27 million for these students through programs outlined in the

Courtesy photo.

Technology continued on page 7

Page 2

Mid Valley News

July 25, 2018

EMCSD Announces New Assistant Superintendent

by Staff Writer El Monte

tion where she highlighted her work with a model Dual Language School and her focus on ensuring the success of all subgroups, including English learners.

Castro began her career as an elementary school teacher in her hometown of Baldwin Park. She then became a middle school teacher, and moved into administration as assistant principal and then later was appointed principal. Under her leadership, her school transformed from one of the lowest to one of the top performing schools in the Baldwin Park School District.

In 2013 she joined the El Monte City School District as the Director of Instruction and Assessment.

Castro is married and has two daughters. She enjoys spending time with her family, yoga, traveling and good food.

Dr. Maribel Garcia, EMCSD Superintendent, said, “We are excited to see the ideas Ms. Castro will offer our district. The future of our district is bright!” Garcia went on to say, “I want to congratulate our retiring Assistant Superintendent Cynthia Traino for her 35 years of exemplary service and leadership to our district.

We wish her well in her retirement.

The El Monte City School District is proud to announce the appointment of Virginia Castro as the new Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services for the 2018-2019 school year. Castro steps up from her position as Director of Instruction and Assessment and is eager to take on her new role. She has used her influential leadership to help develop itinerant music, dual language, musical theater and STEAM summer programs. She has continued to promote a culture of effective professional learning communities, and to facilitate positive relationship development among the educational community.

Castro said, “I am honored and excited to accept my new position.

I look forward to maintaining and growing a rigorous teaching and learning environment. I want the best for each and every student.”

As the daughter of immigrant parents, Virginia began school as an English learner. Experiencing the struggles of being an English learner has provided her with insight, knowledge and familiarity. She has used these tools and served as an expert panelist on MSNBC’s Education Na-

Rio Hondo College Theater Shows Christmas Spirit in the Heat of Summer

by Staff Writer El Monte

Summer heat and Christmas spirit go head to head in Rio Hondo College’s summer show, “The Hollywood Summer Christmas Show,” an original play with songs and dancing inspired by a child’s love of the midwinter holiday.

The show, which stars an ensemble of nearly 20 Rio Hondo College students, will be performed in the College’s Black Box Theater at 8 p.m.

Aug. 3, 4, 9-10, and at 2 p.m. Aug 4, 5 and 11. Admission is free and attendees will receive a holiday surprise at the show’s end.

“Our summer plays are a wonderful tradition at Rio Hondo College,” Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss said. “They offer our students

a chance to experiment with formats and provide the community with entertainment and insight into our tremendous theatre arts program.”

Theatre arts Professor William Korf wrote the play after his daughter, Ava, recreated Christmas in July 2017.

“I always wanted to do a Christmas show, but the timing never worked out,” Korf said. “And then Ava created this cardboard Christmas tree and wrapped presents last summer and I thought someone should do a Christmas show in summer.”

The play is set at a Los Angeles radio station where actors are forced to perform a Christmas show in midsummer – something not all of them are eager to do at first. Ava Korf plays one of the actor’s daughters, a recogChristmas Spirit continued on page 8

Supervisor Hilda Solis Hosts Youth Justice Conference in El Monte

by Staff Writer El Monte

Ed Note: In the previous issue of the Mid Valley News, the headline of our coverage of the Youth Justice Conference led to some confusion.

The editorial staff of the Mid Valley News emphatically, repeatedly, and with the greatest amount of sincerity apologize for this oversight. As part of our apology, our correction, and our accountability we are reprinting the story with a new headline for your education and entertainment.

According to the Campaign for Youth Justice, a national initiative focused entirely on ending the practice of prosecuting, sentencing, and incarcerating youth under the age of 18 in the adult criminal justice system, every year in the U.S., as many as 200,000 youth are put into the adult criminal justice system, most of them for non-violent offenses.

In 22 states and the District of Columbia, children as young as seven can be prosecuted as adults. Each year 95,000 youth are held in adult jails and prisons.

On Wednesday, June 13th, LA County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis hosted the San Gabriel Valley Youth Justice Conference at the Grace T. Black Auditorium to support comprehensive and age-appropriate approaches to justice.

When discussing the impact of community and youth justice, Supervisor Solid said “To see all of you here today really give me the sense that we are on the right patch and that we are going to be working together to address these issues” The juvenile justice system and programs have made incredible headway in methods and progress, especially considering the disorganization, severity, and ineffectiveness of

Conference continued on page 8

July 25, 2018

Webb’s Rule CREDIT CARDS

by Eugene R. Webb will never ever get Most people using credit cards don’t over the hump. even have a clue; It gives them the illusion of having more money too. Yes, If you feel you must have a credit card; credit cards are so convenient to use; Hopefully, you won’t find it too hard. When Also they are real easy to abuse. you pay off each month the balance due; You’ll have more money and be happier too.

Credit cards can give you a short time pleasure; But they are not something to Oh, credit cards can be real handy treasure. They can give you a long term and good; If you use them the way pain; And using them is real hard to refrain. a person should. You could be using their money for a month; So pay off the Credit Cards are like a drug to so many; credit cards and don’t be a chump.

And the money they owe is plenty. If you carry a balance month to month; You Follow us @ MidValleyNews

Our Savior Center is a Shining Example of Our Community in Action

by Staff Writer

Ed Note: In the previous issue of the Mid Valley News, the story of Our Savior Center did not match the headline. The editorial staff of the Mid Valley News emphatically, repeatedly, and with the greatest amount of sincerity apologize for this oversight. As part of our apology, our correction, and our accountability we are reprinting the story for your education and entertainment.

The sun was at its highest, the day was at its longest, and good fellowship was on grand and brilliant display at the 2018 Open House hosted

by Our Savior Center on Santa Anita Ave in El Monte.

In 1985, a small group of volunteers got together and started a simple lunch program because people needed assistance. More than 30 years later, this quiet, unassuming campus tucked off one of El Monte’s busiest streets – if you blink going north on Santa Anita you might miss the entrance – has turned into one of the brightest jewels of our community.

The Food Pantry provides more than 14,000 people access to healthy food options, fresh produce, and access to healthy cooking classes.

The Homeless Family Motel Voucher program provides emergency shelter for families facing a housing crisis for up to seven days in a local motel.

Page 3

Your Community Paper of Record

The Cleaver Family Wellness Clinic provides low cost preventative care for all individuals, regardless of race, color, gender, immigration status, or planet of origin.

Our Savior Center take pride in their service, and as a group dedicates time, energy, and a lot of resources to provide programs to children, youth, and their families throughout the community. Nowhere is this more evident than the Doris Dann Kids Campus.

The Dorris Dann Kids Campus, on Peck Rd, was built in 2006 to provide additional educational and enrichment services for residents throughout the City of El Monte. By reinforcing development in academics, learning, social interaction, and community responsibility, Our Savior Center is preparing the youth of our community to succeed.

The Dorris Dann Kids Campus serves over 1,500 youth and families annually, and since their designation as a “Healthy Behaviors Learning Center” in May of 2012, the campus has expanded learning programs into places that embed to include healthy eating, physical activity and food security in their policies, practices and behaviors--changing the lives of our students, staff and families.

LA County Providing Help to Veterans at 2nd Annual Resource Fair

by Ethan Peschansky, Staff Writer

Every day, the members of the With over 200 vendors available, United States Armed Forces lay their everything from public services to lives on the line protect country and corporate job opportunities were on citizens. But despite the sacrifices display at the expo. they make, veterans still deal with “Veterans have served our country hardships even after returning home. and taken care of us. What we want is As a token of appreciation for their to give them good opportunities and sacrifice and in an effort to lessen to take care of them like they do for some of the problems in the veteran us out there,” said Esperanza Garcia, community, LA County Supervisor Recruitment Manager at ConsolidatHilda Solis hosted the 2nd Annual ed Staffing.

LA Veterans Resource Expo on July There were also plenty of State and 13th. The event was aimed to offer local job opportunities available at veterans whatever assistance they the expo. needed.

“Veterans have experience in the “When they return home from sermilitary and community service,” vice, veterans face immense challengsaid Rodrigo Jimenez, Public Ines finding employment and housing,” formation Officer for the California Solis said. “I am deeply committed Highway Patrol. “We want to get to bringing resources and meaningful people who are already experienced workforce and training programs diand have showed a desire to give rectly to our veteran population.” back to the community.”

Nearly 3000 veterans attended the With veteran homelessness still a expo and had access to a wide variety of different services and resources. Veteran Resource Fair continued on page 7

Our Savior Center continued on page 6

AMERICA, LET’S DO LUNCH

TM

Maurice McGriff, SINCE 1941. This kind of wisdom can only come from doing one thing: living. Now, he and 1 in 6 seniors face the threat of hunger and millions more live in isolation. So pop by, drop off a hot meal and say a warm hello. Volunteer for Meals on Wheels at AmericaLetsDoLunch.org

Page 4

Mid Valley News

July 25, 2018

Mid Valley News Sports

Machado Makes The Dodgers Clear Favorite in The National League West

by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer National

On July 18th the Los Angeles Dodgers executed a huge trade when they sent Yusniel Diaz, Dean Kremer, Rylan Bannon, Breyvic Valera, and Zach Pop to the Baltimore Orioles for Shortstop Manny Machado. The players that the Dodgers are all minor league players but are very good prospects that could turn out to be major leaguers. Machado has played his entire career with the Orioles up until this point since 2012. He has 162 career home runs and 471 RBIs and .283 career batting average.

Machado is clearly a proven hitter in the American League the question will be how he adjusts to the National League.

For the Dodgers this is a big pickup even if it is just for the remainder of the 2018 season. Dodgers SS Corey Seager was lost for the entire season when he suffered UCL Sprain that required a Tommy John surgery.

Machado will help fill the void that Seager left. The issue with this deal is that Machado will become a free agent at the end of the season so there is no guarantee that the Dodgers will be able to sign him at the end of the season. The Dodgers are in win-now mentality after coming up short last

The newest Dodger Manny Machado with his new coach. Courtesy photos by www.facebook.com/Dodgers

Homeless Resources Fair & Mobile Shower

season when they lost in 7 games against the Houston Astros in the World Series.

Machado has only played in 5 career playoff games and that was back in 2012 as a rookie. Success in the playoffs is much harder to achieve than in the regular season so we will see how Machado hits in high pressure situations which he will have with the Dodgers. The Dodgers are in the midst of a dog-fight in the NL

West with Dodgers, Dbacks, Rockies and Giants all fighting for the Division Crown. They are all just separated by less than 5 games, so it will be a battle until the end of the season.

The Dodgers are favored to come out on top, but their pitching rotation still seems shaky. Machado can ignite this team to a World Series Championship, so this could be the steal of the summer.

by Staff Writer El Monte

The speculation had finally ended and it took everybody by surprise since it was only the first day of Free Agency.

Supposedly the Philadelphia 76ers, the Denver Nuggets and the Houston Rockets were all in the LeBron sweepstakes. In the end they were all just rumors, the Lakers were the only team that ever had a realistic shot to land James this summer. James had Los Angeles on his mind for a long time and this summer was the perfect time for him to move west.

James is the clearly the face of the NBA. He has been in the NBA Finals every season since 2011, 4 appearances with the Miami Heat and 4 with the Cleveland Cavaliers. 3 NBA Championships, 2 with the Heat and one with the Cavaliers. James has averaged at least 25 points per game in every season since 2004-2005. At the age of 33 some people argue that his best days may be behind him. It’s hard to say, he is still arguably the best player in the entire league. Only time will tell to see if he keeps this level up in the next 4 years.

James is coming to a Laker team that is going through their worst period ever in their storied history. The last time they made the playoffs was in 2013 and they got swept that season by the San Antonio Spurs. The last championship was in 2010. The Lakers have not even been in playoff contention in the last 5 seasons. They have gone 126-284 in a terrible period for this team. James

Long Live the King – LeBron Comes to LA

On July 1st, 2018 around 5 P.M local time the biggest sports story of the year broke. LeBron James would be joining the Los Angeles Lakers on a 4-year, 154-million-dollar deal. James to the Lakers as crazy as it sounded was real. It was not a just another rumor like we had heard for months leading up to the 2018 NBA Free Agency Period.

Whittier Narrows Recreation Area Area A - Building #21 1201 Loma Avenue, South El Monte, CA 91733

Every Thursday 11 am - 3 pm

FREE RESOURCES         

Hot Showers Meals / Water Hygiene Kits Clothing Vaccinations: Hep A/Flu DMV Vouchers Expungement Clinic Local Shelter Information Additional County Resources (Available services may vary by week)

For more information, please call (323) 351-7018

Courtesy Photos from www.facebook.com/Lakers

Lakers continued on page 6

July 25, 2018

Page 5

Your Community Paper of Record

Community Corner

Metro News

Los Angeles Metro Delivers Annual State of the Agency Report

By Metro.net SGV/ Los Angeles

Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) CEO Phillip A. Washington joined Los Angeles Mayor and Metro Board Chair Eric Garcetti and incoming new Metro Board Chair, Los Angeles County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl in delivering the annual State of the Agency report today to Metro Board Members, community leaders and stakeholders at Union Station.

“Metro doesn’t just move this city, it connects our communities, powers our economy forward, and gives our region a shared sense of identity,” said Metro Board Chair and Mayor of Los Angeles Eric Garcetti. “Thanks to Measure M, the future of transportation in Los Angeles has never been brighter. I’m excited to continue our work to ease congestion and deliver the world-class transportation network our region deserves.”

During his term as Board Chair, Mayor Garcetti helped power Metro to new heights, using the momentum of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic

games to adopt 28 by ’28, an initiative to build and accelerate 28 major transportation projects by 2028.

Mayor Garcetti also oversaw several of Metro’s most important project ground-breaking, including the Purple Line Extension Section 2 to Century City and Gold Line Foothill Extension to Claremont, and helped Metro adopt the most aggressive electric bus goal of any large transit agency in America, pledging to make its bus fleet 100% zero emissions by 2030.

Metro Vice Chair Supervisor Kuehl discussed a number of exciting projects happening at Metro next year.

She is looking forward to continuing to work with the Board and Metro CEO Phil Washington on improving the experience of those riding the Metro system. In addition, she plans on working with Metro’s Women and Girls Council to continue to focus on training and hiring more women in non-traditional career positions.

Supervisor Kuehl expressed her enthusiasm for Metro’s undertaking of the NextGen Bus Study, which will reevaluate the bus routes that carry

over 70% of our ridership.

“I am really looking forward to becoming Metro Chair next month” said Metro Vice Chair Kuehl. “We have a great number of exciting projects and initiatives coming to fruition and I look forward to continuing to focus on our riders and employees, especially as our programs impact women, and their unique experiences and needs, in the year to come.”

Saying right here and right now in Los Angeles County, we are becoming the transportation infrastructure center of excellence, Metro’s CEO Washington unveiled his Five-PointPlan for the agency, with the first point addressing the need to implement mobility innovation calling for high-quality options that enable people to spend less time traveling and noting that Measure M is the most ambitious and comprehensive voterapproved transportation program in America.

“This is why we are waging a transportation revolution,” said Washington. “It’s about developing a variety of choices that will make it easier to ride Metro or to get

around by combining transit with travel via cars, bikes, rideshare, walking or options not yet developed.”

Other areas of mobility innovations included the agency’s Twenty-Eight by ’28 Initiative that aims to complete 28 major transit projects by the time Los Angeles hosts the 2028 Olympics and Paralympic Games.

About Metro

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) is unique among the nation’s transportation agencies. Created in 1993, Metro is a multi modal transportation agency that transports about 1.3 million passengers daily on a fleet of 2,200 clean air buses and six rail lines. The agency also oversees bus, rail, highway and other mobilityrelated building projects and leads transportation planning and programming for Los Angeles County.

Page 6

Mid Valley News

July 25, 2018

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

S u d o k u

Crossword Puzzle solution in issue 8.08.18

Solution for Sudoku in issue 8.08.18

PRO SPORTS

ACROSS 1. *MLB pitcher who retired with 321 saves 5. Bean house 8. Babies down under 12. Singes in “La PlanΦte des singes” 13. Foolhardy challenge 14. 24-____ gold 15. Horizontal wall beam 16. Land o’ blarney 17. Analyze 18. *Stanley Cup sport 20. Fanatic’s quality 21. Street art 22. Have a bawl 23. Wear out 26. Maliciously satisfied one 30. Poor man’s caviar 31. Send, as in troops 34. Prefix meaning “left” 35. Resoundingly successful 37. Be unwell 38. Give a green light 39. “I’m ____ you!”

40. Rudolph or Hermey, e.g.

42. 1950s’ “I Like ____” 43. Mended by a cobbler 45. *a.k.a. association football 47. Hauling truck 48. Sanrio’s “____ Kitty” 50. Great Depression drifter 52. Most pleasing to the eye 56. Saintly glows 57. Owl’s cry 58. Stringed instrument 59. Like old cracker 60. Prefers 61. *The Browns and Indians play near this lake 62. Hurt a muscle 63. Don’t waste 64. College dwelling

Lakers continued from page 4

DOWN 1. Epiphany guests 2. *Type of matchup 3. Dry as dust 4. Cause of wheezing 5. “Snorkel” wear 6. Type of window 7. Say it isn’t so 8. *Known for its diamonds 9. Celestial bear 10. Figure of worship 11. Chester White’s home 13. King’s order 14. If you can hum, you can play it!

19. Beat the Joneses 22. Stallone’s nickname 23. Spring holiday honoree 24. *Yankees manager 25. Not rights 26. *Know for its tour 27. Opposite of ecbatic 28. Call forth 29. One of the crew 32. *When athletes get this, they become pros 33. Fleur-de-____ 36. *It includes safeties and ends 38. Coral reef island 40. Feline sound 41. Specks in the sea 44. Like change in a pocket 46. Folded like a snake 48. *Popular colloquial sport name 49. Be theatrical 50. Rwanda’s majority 51. Kind of surgeon 52. Cabbage in France 53. EU currency 54. Recipe direction 55. Team homophone 56. Nile viper Follow us @ MidValleyNews

will have to carry this team the entire season.

The Lakers did sign Rajon Rondo, Lance Stephenson and JaVale McGee to help bolster their

Our Savior Center continued from page 3

The day was at its longest and the sun was bright, but nowhere near as bright as those at-

Courtesy photo

lineup, but their roster still looks slim compared to the Golden State Warriors or the Boston Celtics. The Lakers should make the playoffs next season but most likely will not contend for a championship. Regardless it will be fun season here in Los Angeles as the Lakers are now back to relevancy.

tended the Open House of Our Savior Center – except for those of the hosts.

For more information on the support and services including the Food Panty, The Cleaver Wellness Clinic, and after school programs readers are encouraged to contact Our Savior Center by calling 626-579-2190.

July 25, 2018 Technology continued from page 1

District’s LCAP, a three-year spending plan that guides District efforts to improve student achievement by setting annual priorities and strategies to achieve those goals.

“With the valuable input of our community stakeholders, we have developed a number of programs to promote college and career readiness, help our highest-risk students meet their goals and empower our parents to be actively involved in their progress,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “Under the LCAP, which we continually monitor, we are able to address the academic, social and emotional needs of our students and support their success to enhance their high school experience.”

To ensure students can access technology resources outside of the school environment, the District will purchase laptops and provide students with additional math support through an online program. The District will also provide online learning tools to allow students to work at their own pace and receive added support for content they have previously struggled with.

Paraeducators will continue to be placed in English language development classes to support the academic

Veteran Resource Fair continued from page 3

serious problem in the U.S. and in Los Angeles County, local agencies sent representatives to help veterans gain access to state and federal resources.

“You can’t get all of the resources they have here today on any other day… they’re not all in one spot,” said Jayde Collins, member of LAHSA Homeless Engagement Team.

“To have everyone here at this lo-

Page 7

Your Community Paper of Record language development of English learners. Counselors will meet with students and monitor their progress toward college readiness on an ongoing basis. A teacher on special assignment (TOSA) will continue to be placed at each comprehensive high school to work directly with English learners.

A director of pupil services will work with staff across the District to address the academic, mental, social and emotional needs of all students.

“Many of the programs we have created have resulted in an increase in graduation rates and students recognizing that our staff truly cares about their success and well-being,” said Larry Cecil, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services. “In fact, 82 percent of English learners have shown progress toward meeting language proficiency. This is a huge success for students, which we expect to continue with the support and mentoring of the EL TOSAs and paraeducators.”

El Monte Union’s development process for the LCAP included gathering input from its LCAP Committee (composed of teachers, union representatives, students, parents and administrators); surveys distributed to students, parents and staff; and feedback from its District English Learner Advisory Committee, Parent Advisory Council and staff. cation and at this time, I think it’s best for anyone who’s experiencing homelessness.”

According to the 2016 U.S. Census, of the almost 18.5 million veterans living in the United States, one million are unemployed, two million are living in poverty, and almost three million are disabled.

LA County itself is home to over 350,000 veterans. According to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, almost 4000 of them are still homeless.

“Connie’s Comments”

by Connie Keenan El Monte

I t ’s h a p p e n e d !

Norm’s Restaurant is finally open. Its held its grand opening Friday, July 20. Located on Santa Anita Avenue, it’s not really what us old timers would say was the “heart” of the Valley Mall, or shopping area, as the city’s press release stated.

But no matter, it’s open! We’re happy to have another food

ladies room. I mean I REALLY needed to use the ladies room.

If you’ve not visited the ladies room at El Sombrero it only has two stalls. One large handicapped stall and a smaller, not made for wide hips, stall.

The large one was occupied so I made a fast entry into the smaller one. The door made a loud bang and a tiny voice on the other side said, “Ay, yi, yi!”

“I’m sorry,” I said.

“I didn’t know it was going to hit like that.”

“That’s okay,” said a more mature voice.

“Ours did the same thing.”

option, other than the ubiquitous fast food joints that abound.

Before readers get in a snit, I’m not against fast food, it’s just that I prefer to have options.

I don’t think the “office” would consider moving from its present location at El Sombrero but we might visit Norm’s on occasion. For a day other than Friday we might just pop in for a friendly meeting.

Speaking of the “Office” I had the most delightful encounter last Friday.

After four or five iced teas I needed to use the Connie’s Comments continued on page 8

“Working Overtime”

“2018 State of the City of El Monte” By: Dick James, Staff Writer El Monte

Well pals, the Mayor gave the Annual State of the City address on Saturday July 14 at City Hall with a nice lunch served afterwards and it looks like the City is in pretty good shape.

The Annual State of the City of El Monte Report is given each year by Mayor Andre Quintero and this year the Mayor’s focus was on five main topics; Economic Growth, Safer Community, Healthier Lifestyles, City Improvements and Strong Leadership.

A lot of credit goes to the City’s leadership for bringing new businesses like the Holiday Inn into El Monte and for their continued concerns for affordable housing for our Veterans.

Together we are making progress with the homeless problem. The City

has hired 14 new police officers this year and the Police Department hosted the City’s first public safety fair.

Providing residents access to green spaces and programs that promote healthy lifestyles are key goals for the City’s vision of a stronger future.

Capped by a $3.7 million grant to renovate Zamora Park and programs that have service over 2,000 city residents, the City has received prestigious awards from the California Park and Recreation Society.

City improvements have kept pace, with over $1 million spent for renovation in the Aquatic Center, reconstruction on Klingerman Street as well as removing graffiti and filling over 2,500 potholes while maintaining fiscal stability has shown strong leadership at all levels of city governWorking Overtime continued on page 8

Cracker Barrel “Expected Hundreds, got Thousands” by: Mike McClure, Staff Writer El Monte

…so last Friday (7/13/2018) I went over to the Pomona Fairplex. I had received a press release from Supervisor Solis’s office that the Supervisor would be hosting the Second Annual LA County Veterans Job & Resource Expo. They were expecting hundreds of Veterans, transitionsing service members, and military spouses to attend the free event.

What they got was more in the thousands attending, with over 200 vendors gathered at the Fairplex to provide on-site job interviews, information on County services, health resources, and educational programs. Plus, all the attendees enjoyed the live entertainment and received free access to the National Hot Rod Association Museum that was

next door (aaah, another perk of the elite media but don’t tell anyone at the paper, they thought I was working). …I usually leave the Senior’s news to “Working Overtime” (also seen in the Mid Valley News) but I went by the Jack Crippen Multipurpose Senior Center the other day while their Nutrition Program was busy serving lunch.

Seniors in El Monte can enjoy a wellbalanced and hearty meal for a small, suggested donation of $2.00. The meals are available to community members over the age of 60 on a first come first served basis so early arrivals are recommended, for more information or directions to the center, please call the Community and Senior Services Division at 1(626)580-2210.

Cracker Barrel continued on page 8

Page 8

Mid Valley News

Science Academy continued from page 1

ote Mint they planted, the students also made beautiful Origami butterflies to decorate the area.

“We designed the garden and chose the plants carefully because we wanted plants that attract butterflies and bees,” said Lena, a 6th grader.

“There is a decline in the number of butterflies because there are less and less Milkweed plants around,” she

added.

Board of Education president, Veronica Sifuentes was excited to hear about the project and glad to see the passion the students have for the environment.

“You all have done a wonderful job during the summer academy and all your hard work will make a tremendous difference to this area,” said Sifuentes. “We are so proud of your efforts and hope this experience may have inspired a career path that you might not have been aware of in the area of environmental science. We are grateful to Amigos de los Rios for the partnership and to Dr. Shope for his leadership.”

Connie’s Comments 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 Connie Keenan Dick James Devette Johnson Michael McClure Mike Nelson Mid Valley Media Center, LLC, all contents here in are copyrighted and may not be reproduce in any manner, either in whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily that of the management and staff of Mid Valley Media Center, LLC. 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

continued from page 7

“What’s she doing mama?” asked the tiny voice.

“She’s doing what we’re doing,” said mama.

They exited before me and as I made my entrance (or exit if you prefer) the little girl turned to me wide eyed and said, “Oh, I didn’t know you were old!”

“I was going to tell you but I didn’t want to scare you,” I said.

“My name is Lauren and I’m five years-old,” said Lauren with a huge smile.

“My name is Connie, and I’m nearly a 100 years old,” I said smiling back.

“My grandma died because she was old,” said Lauren.

Mama in the meantime wanted to crawl under the tiles of the restroom.

“And my uncle died too,” said Lauren.

“Oh you have all sorts of angels watching over you. You’re very lucky,” I said.

“Yes, we’ve talked about that,” said mama as she grabbed Lauren’s arm and marched her out.

I laughed so hard. I’ve been laughing since. Lauren you made my heart sing. I am the lucky one to have met you.

July 25, 2018

Conference Continued from page 1

its early days.

Today, policies and programs within the juvenile justice system are intended to recognize behavioral issues in youth offenders and target strategies for creating a reformed citizen.

Youth offenders are categorized by the severity of their issues, including committed offenses, risk level to public safety and individual service requirements. Youths are incarcerated or placed under close supervision, following the deficit-based model of incapacitation, deterrence and retribution, and rehabilitation.

Research into adolescent brain development shows that youth are more likely than adults to be permanently traumatized by the harsh realities of the adult system and therefore experience a much higher recidivism rate.

A continued and growing focus on opportunities for reform and rehabilitation in the juvenile justice system has hopes for lessening the number of offenders because youth are more

likely to respond positively to rehabilitation programs available in the juvenile system.

Supervisor Solid supported services for reform. “I really believe that if we start to intertwine those services that the county can make available, we can make a difference.” She continued “and hopefully avoid all the negativity that sometimes overloads our brains, and sometimes results in negative behavior.”

By paying attention to positive youth development, recognizing and providing treatment for mental illness and offering sufficient educational opportunities, the juvenile justice system can reach a greater level of effectiveness.

Working Overtime

Cracker Barrel

continued from page 7

continued from page 7

ment.

Congratulations to the Mayor, the City Council, our Police Department and everyone working behind the scenes to keep El Monte safe and moving forward. Mayor Quintero and the members of the City Council recognize that we still have a lot to do to improve housing opportunities for our Veterans and Seniors, the Homeless problem still needs coordination with our neighboring cities and that’s where the leadership from Supervisor Solis has been so important, but overall the Mayor deserves our congrats.

Christmas Spirit continued from page 2

nition of her influence in the play’s creation.

Students acting in the play are a mix of current Rio Hondo College students and graduates who are taking the summer theatre arts class so they can perform.

“I decided to come back for my last Rio Hondo College theater performance,” said Phone Tha, who received his Associate of Arts Degree in Theatre Arts this spring.

“Out of all the shows I’ve done, I’ve never done a radio show. What I love about this is the perspective using mostly sound effects, which I’ve never done before. It’s such a fun experience to play around with sound,” he said.

Sudoku Solution for 7.11.18

…the “One Last Thing” this issue is a reminder. This week is going to be HOT, if you have seniors in the home or if any of your neighbors are seniors, make sure you check on them to make sure that they are safe and don’t forget your pets, they need water to!

Mid Valley Media Center Your Ad Could Be Here!!

Call Us at 626.888.1493 or Email Us at info@midvalleymedia.net

The show has been entered into the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. Adjudicators from the program will attend a performance and decide whether to nominate actors to represent Rio Hondo College at a regional festival. If the show does well, students could be asked to perform the show for the regional audience and be nominated for an Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship.

“Rio Hondo College provides an extraordinary range of academic and career opportunities for our students to explore as they are discovering their personal passions,” Board of Trustees President Madeline Shapiro said. “Our theatre arts program is a great example of a program that allows students to discover creative ways of expressing themselves.”

Crossword Solution for 7.11.18

For the pulse of the San Gabriel Valley, local news, special events, and school events check us out.

www.midvalleynews.com

https://www.facebook. com/midvalleynews