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The Community Paper of Record
Vol. 55, No. 25
Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966
December 12, 2018
A Day to Celebrate the Newly Elected by Ethan Peschansky, Contributing Writer El Monte
It was an auspicious day and excitement was in the air as the newly elected city staff were sworn in on Saturday. With midterm elections finally concluded, El Monte now looks to welcome the new faces who will be shaping the policies in the city. The ceremony took place in El Monte High Schools spacious auditorium and was open to the public. Many citizens turned out for the event and for the chance to meet their new representatives. The new staff were sworn in by current members of the El Monte city council and other dignitaries from around the state including Congresswoman Grace Napolitano. Many of the city’s new officials represent numerous firsts for the city. Jennifer Santana’s election to the Board of Directors of the Upper San Gabriel Valley Water District now makes her the first woman ever elected to that position. “I’m excited to bring my research and my science background to help find innovative ways to help El Monte make water sustainability and affordability a reality,” Santana said. Cindy Wu, elected to the Mountain
View Governing Board, is the first Asian-American woman elected to any municipal position in the history of El Monte. “Although we live in time of national division, our community has shown that race, gender, sexual orientation, and a myriad of other things that might superficially divide others will not divide us,” Wu said. El Monte also follows nationwide trends in electing women to local government. Many of the candidates who won their races, including first time candidates, were women. The El Monte City School District re-elected Beth Rivas and adds newcomers Lisette Mendez and Julia Ruedas to the Governing Board. Cathi Eredia, the former curator of the El Monte Historical Museum, and Viviana Longoria were sworn in as City Clerk and City Treasurer. El Monte also welcomes two new members to its city council, both of whom are women. Jessica Ancona and Maria Morales now join Councilwoman Victoria Martinez to form a majority women city council with Councilman Jerry Velasco and Mayor Andre Quintero as the only men. However, the biggest winner of the day was Mayor Andre Quintero, now extending his tenure as the longest
serving mayor in El Monte history. He was sworn in by his mentor and former boss, Congresswoman Grace Napolitano. Although the city staff will look different, it should be to Mayor Quintero’s favor. Headlining Team El Monte alongside Councilman
Jerry Velasco, the two senior council members helped to elect nearly every candidate of Team El Monte this cycle, many of them women. “I think it’s reflective of what’s happening at the national level,” Quintero said. “Our community is Newly Elected continued on page 15
El Monte Union Has A New President by Staff Writer El Monte
The El Monte Union High School District Board of Trustees conducted its annual reorganization meeting on December 5th, and selected David Diaz as president for 2019, Florencio F. Briones as vice president and Ricardo Padilla as clerk. Diaz, a graduate of South El Monte High School, was elected to the board in November 2017 and serves as a director at a local nonprofit public health organization, focusing on youth development, education and creating change in underrepresented communities. Over the course of the last few years, he’s worked on the development of an Advanced Energy Community plan, the San Gabriel Valley Regional Bicycle Master Plan, the Puente Hills Landfill Park Master Plan, an Urban Greening Toolkit, and multiple healthy community related policies/initiatives aimed at creating healthier environments in the El Monte/South El Monte. David is also a consultant with a local nonprofit, Bike San Gabriel Valley, Investing in Place Board
Pictured are El Monte Union Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga, Board of Trustees member Maria Morgan, Vice President Florencio F. Briones, President David Diaz, Clerk Ricardo Padilla, student board member Heather Huynh and member Carlos G. Salcedo. Courtesy photo.
Member, South El Monte Planning Commissioner, and former South El Monte Community Services Com-
missioner. As an invested resident of the City of South El Monte, he has championed health, literacy, and
creating opportunities for the Greater New President continued on page 14
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Mid Valley News
December 12, 2018
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk Another EMRAS Success Story – Meet Kevin Ho by Staff Writer El Monte
Hello, my name is Kevin Ho and I have just finished my Physical Therapy Aide sequence as of October 19,2018. I started this journey back in March 2018 and worked vigorously in finishing every class that is required. On this journey I had the pleasure of meeting numerous awesome individuals who are working towards the same goal as me. It truly has been an exhilarating adventure the last 7 months and I am proud to be a part of the EMRAS success family. One of the important things I learned is that, it’s never too late to finish what you started, nobody else is stopping you but you. Looking forward to the next phase of job hunting and applying my skills to the real world! Watch out world,
here I come! About EMRAS The El Monte-Rosemead Adult School (EMRAS) is situated in the center of the San Gabriel Valley approximately 12 miles from downtown Los Angeles. Since its establishment in 1932, it has become one of the largest adult schools in California. EMRAS is unique in its ability to serve its community with instructional and support programs. The challenges of our community’s diverse population are met with a variety of classes, delivery models, and flexible schedules that serve over 11,000 students attending more than 100 different courses per year. The school is a dynamic member of the greater El Monte community, collaborating with diverse entities to serve our students. The community views EMRAS as a key educational option for their personal and career goals; there are numerous examples of individuals who began with classes at the adult school, transitioned to postsecondary education or training, and succeeded in pursuing a productive and satisfying career. Now Enrolling for Q3 Now Enrolling! Need to pass your high school equivalency test? Want
to earn a high school diploma? Come to El Monte-Rosemead Adult School today to register for FREE classes to help you reach your goal! We are now offering teacher-directed High School Equivalency Preparation
Workshops! The key to success is taking the first step! For more information on continuing your education, visit https:// www.emuhsd.org/emras
More than Sad Rescheduled to January 17, 2019 by Staff Writer El Monte
South El Monte High School is helping parents fight teen suicide. More Than Sad: Parent Training on the Prevention of Suicide has been rescheduled for January 17 on the campus of South El Monte High School. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, in 2016, a total of 44,965 suicide deaths were reported in the U.S. That works out to a suicide rate of 13.5 meaning that more than 13 suicides were reported for every 100,000 people in the country. At that rate, suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the population overall and Over half of all reported suicides were by firearm. Among young people between the ages of 10 and 24, 6,159 suicide deaths occurred in 2016, representing about 13.7% of all suicides in that year. The suicide rate in this age group was 9.6 per 100,000 young people in the country. This made suicide the second leading cause of death among youth, following unintentional injuries including vehicle crashes. That said, it is also important to note that death by any cause is still very rare within this age group.
The intent of the program is to learn about teen depression and suicide risk, identify the warning signs and risk factors for suicide in teens, understand the role of treatments in reducing risk, and identify how to approach your child to talk about depression and suicide, South El Monte High School is hosting More than Sad: Parent Training on the Prevention of Suicide. This event is scheduled for January 17, 2019 and those who would like more information should contact the South El Monte Campus by calling (626) 258-5600.
December 12, 2018
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Mid Valley News
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk El Monte Union Prepares Families for College Success by Juliette Funes and William Diepenbock, Contributing Writers
More than 300 El Monte-area students and their families received guidance on how to prepare for post-secondary success during El Monte Union High School District’s inaugural College and Career Family Conference, “The Places You’ll Go!” The conference – held in October at El Monte High School – offered 36 workshops (conducted in English and Spanish) that covered a range of including financial aid, college entrance requirements, resources for Dream Act students, the 21st century classroom and a review of the UC and CSU systems. The conference was followed by a college and community outreach resource fair. The event was held on a Saturday to ensure families had the opportunity to attend. It was held in partnership with El Monte City and Mountain View school districts, the El Monte Promise Foundation, Rio Hondo College and UC Irvine. “We want to continue to promote and support a college-and-career going culture not just in our District, but also in our community,” said Edith Echeverria, El Monte Union’s
director of Instructional Support. “We want all of our students to be prepared for the journey they decide to take after high school, whether college or career, and through this conference, we are providing them with the tools to assist them in their endeavors.” The Places You’ll Go! conference kicked off with workshops tailored for specific grade levels: Life Skills to Survive High School (grades 7-8); Pathway to College (grades 9-10); Understanding College Options (grade 11) and Senior College Timeline (grade 12). Families attended sessions based on their interests. General information workshops covered topics such as filling out financial aid applications, career technical education, out-of-state college options, transferring from a community college to a university and a five-step guide to paying for college. More specific workshops focused on financial literacy and how to grow wealth; email etiquette and the importance of students promoting themselves by networking; and life skills to survive college. A parent panel focused on the unexpected costs of college and the transition from high school to
university, while a student panel allowed participants to gain insight directly from Rio Hondo College students. “Many of our students will be the first in their families to attend a college or university, and it is vitally important that they begin to know and understand their options as early
as middle school so that they can be well prepared when the time comes,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “The response was tremendous, and it is great to see so many community stakeholders unite to bring these invaluable services to our students and families.”
More than 300 El Monte-area students and their families attended the inaugural College and Career Family Conference on Oct. 27. “The Places You’ll Go!” conference provided students and parents a variety of workshops to ensure postsecondary success.
El Monte Union Embraces Arroyo Students Are Learning Community Partners to Strengthen that Food is Medicine by Staff Writer El Monte
Arroyo High, Eco Urban Gardens and City of Hope are hosting the community event “Food is Medicine”, Saturday, December 15th beginning at 1 pm when The Arroyo Garden club students will share their harvest, host tours, and plant a tree as part of the groundbreaking ceremony. Speakers include Dr. Raymond Somoa of City of Hope and David Rosenstein of OurFoods. The food we eat gives our bodies the “information” and materials they need to function properly. If we don’t get the right information, our metabolic processes suffer and our health declines. Our food preferences and choices are now influenced more by food companies, ad campaigns, and the notion that “faster is better.” This event will introduce the design of a 2,400 sq ft Farm Lab, which includes an Aqua / Hydroponic Greenhouse, an outdoor schoolroom and a kitchen. At this time more than 4,000 consumers are served through the Farm to School program and over 2,500 lbs of organic produce is harvested. Harvests are taken by students to the Culinary Arts Kitchen and prepared into a healthy meal. The Farm to School program teaches different agroecology methods and engages students to think differently about food and food habits. The Farm to School curriculum combats chronic illness such as obesity, and Type II Diabetes.
Campus Safety
We don’t always (or perhaps even often) pick foods based on what our bodies need for optimal wellness. Busy lives and stress prevent us from taking the time to really nourish body and soul. We eat for convenience, not health. EUG is partnering with the El Monte Union High School District to create a Career Technical Education Pathway to prepare students for careers in health, nutrition, medicine, environmental science and agroecology. The garden will be used as an outdoor classroom to create a hands-on learning experience. Executive Director Marianne Zaugg says, “this pilot program at Arroyo High School will serve as model for other schools to follow”. Eco Urban Gardens is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization operating since 2015 in the San Gabriel Valley. Their mission is to improve the health and well-being of all by bringing farms and gardens to your door. EUG runs several regenerative agriculture programs in the El Monte Union High School District and surrounding LA area. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a world leader in the research and treatment of cancer, diabetes, and other serious diseases and is one of only 49 comprehensive cancer centers in the nation, as designated by the National Cancer Institute. If you are interested in partnering with Eco Urban Gardens or learning more about how to further this educational effort, please contact Marianne Zaugg (626) 3743504 or info@ecourbangardens.org
by Juliette Funes, Contributing Writer El Monte
El Monte Union has partnered with the El Monte Police Department to conduct random K-9 detection sweeps at its campuses in an effort to deter students from bringing contraband to school. It is part of one of many initiatives the District has in place to ensure the safety of students and staff. “Safe schools provide an environment in which teaching and learning can flourish and our students can attain personal and academic achievement,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “It is critical for our community to work together to ensure the safety of children in our schools.” The District actively collaborates with local law enforcement, including the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, to provide a safe and secure school environment. Most recently, El Monte Police led a random sweep of all EMUHSD’s schools using a police-trained dog to search for unlawful substances and drugs in classrooms and on campus. The program was initiated during the 2016-17 school year and is conducted at least twice a year. “We follow strict protocols and laws to ensure the safety of students and staff when these searches are done,” El Monte Police Chief David Reynoso said. “This is an example of the great partnership that our police department has with the
school districts in our city to promote safety in the community.” El Monte Union works with a broad spectrum of community stakeholders, local law enforcement, mental health professionals, parents, students, teachers and staff to develop, implement and monitor policies and programs that foster and support a positive school climate. This includes having a School Resource Officer program, conducting regular safety drills and lockdowns to prepare for emergencies, providing active shooter training to all District staff, installing security cameras, working with local police to investigate all safety threats and requiring visitors to check in through each school’s front office. The Sheriff’s Department over the summer held an active shooter training for officers at Rosemead High School, similar to a training held last year at South El Monte High School. At the beginning of the school year, the El Monte Police Department conducted a “Critical Incident Response” training for students at El Monte, Arroyo, Fernando R. Ledesma and Mountain View high schools. Lock down drills were also performed to ensure students and schools are up-to-date with practices and procedures. “By working together, we can create a strong and effective network to ensure the safety of our school community,” Zuniga said.
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Mid Valley News
December 12, 2018
City School District Nutrition Services Chief Named Director of the Year by Raymond Mendoza, Contributing Writer El Monte
Director of Nutrition Services Dr. Robert Lewis keeps students happy, healthy and productive by offering creative and healthy dishes like cherry blossom chicken with brown rice and broccoli, handmade tamales and pizza with low-fat cheese and whole grain crust. Since joining the El Monte City School District 10 years ago, Lewis enacted programs to fight childhood obesity and secured funding to make breakfast, lunch and supper free to all K-6 students. For those efforts, Lewis was
named 2018 Director of the Year by the California School Nutrition Association on Nov. 10. “I believe that our District’s kids deserve the same start in life as any other student in California and so my goal is to ensure that our students never have to worry about having something to eat,” Lewis said. “I truly believe that having a free meal in school is just as important as having pencils, paper and even a computer in class.” The honor follows El Monte City School District’s recognition by the U.S. Department of Agriculture with HealthierUS Schools Challenge (HUSSC) Gold awards for nine
El Monte City School District Director of nutrition services Dr. Robert Lewis, center, holds his 2018 California School Nutrition Association (CSNA) Director of the Year award. He is joined, left to right, by CSNA Vice President Johnna Jenkins, CSNA President-elect Polly Houston, CSNA President Kim Eckholm and CSNA Awards Committee Chairwoman Amber Watson.
Rio Hondo College Builds Pathway to Law School by Young Lee, Contributing Writer and Staff El Monte
On the evening of November 29, Rio Hondo College students and legal professionals from across the Southland braved torrential rains and lightning gathered together in the Administration of Justice Building for the Pathway to Law School Mentor Mixer. Traditionally the first meeting between Pathway to Law School students and mentor attorneys provided by Ferias Legales, Nonprofit Organization committed to educating, assisting, and facilitating community empowerment through free legal resources for the underserved communities. This year’s event was spearheaded by Pre-Law Society Club and Pathway to Law School students who organized the event to also serve as an opportunity to thank attorneys who have participated in program
and club events. Pathway to Law School is for underrepresented college students interested in learning more about law schools and careers in the legal field. The initiative is designed to enhance opportunities and advancement in the legal profession for diverse populations. Ideally, students will spend two years at Rio Hondo College then transfer to any accredited undergraduate institution to complete their bachelor’s degree and then be considered for a priority admissions review to one of the six participating law schools listed below. In attendance that evening were Rio Hondo College’s Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss and Student Services Vice President Henry Gee, who welcomed attendees and took part in an ice breaker activity run by the students, as well as attorney and Pathway to Law School advisory board co-chair, Ricardo Perez, and Maria Torres of Ferias Legales. Members of the Pathway to Law School team—Aracely Tamayo, counselor Angelica Martinez, and coordinator Young Lee—assisted students with logistics in organizing the event and provided support throughout the evening to help things run smoothly.
El Monte City School District Director of Nutrition Services Dr. Robert Lewis, Project Coordinator Caitlin Waylom, P.D., left, and Operations Coordinator Nellie Garcia, right, meet with actress Amanda Seyfried at Rio Vista Elementary School. Seyfried visited the campus through the Share our Strength organization, which aims to end childhood hunger, to highlight the District’s free meal program.
schools and Silver for three others in 2017 for its free meal program. In 2011, Lewis and other administrators met then first lady Michelle Obama as a reward for earning 14 Silver HUSSC awards. The District’s wellness programs have also been sponsored and honored by celebrities like Robert Downey Jr., Chelsea Clinton and Amanda Seyfried. Lewis said his biggest honor is seeing how students and the community have changed their attitudes on nutrition. “The whole attitude of the District has moved toward a healthier way of life,” Lewis said. “It’s not just our department – it’s the entire District with P.E. coaches, nurses, kids being
very literate in nutrition education and our teachers putting nutrition education in the classroom.” His department’s latest accomplishment is the inclusion of salad bars, paid for by the Chef Ann Foundation. Lewis said 12 schools now have salad bars; Le Gore Elementary and Columbia School will add the feature before the District goes on winter break. Lewis said students asked for the salad bars through a letter-writing campaign. Lewis said the Nutrition Services Department’s work is nowhere near finished – he plans to hire a third chef, partner with high-profile Director of the Year continued on page 16
Mountain View School District Students Enjoy Saturday STEAM by Michelle Earle, Contributing Writer and Staff El Monte
Mountain View School District students are spending their Saturday’s perfecting their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, Mathematics) skills during four Saturday Workshops led by Windtree Education. Excited to participate in the handson learning, students are assembling the Raspberry PI Self-Driving Robot Car as they explore robotics, 3D
design and coding. Using highquality hardware and Raspberry Pi single board computers, the students are learning the fundamentals of circuitry, as well as computer programming as they nurture their curiosity and creativity, build logical thinking, engineering and design skills, and have loads of fun in the process. Mountain View School District is grateful for the partnership of STEAM continued on page 15
December 12, 2018
Mid Valley News
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Cogswell Students Go Shopping by Michelle Earle, Contributing Writer El Monte
Thirty excited students from Cogswell School got a great surprise when the San Gabriel Valley Chapter of the National Latino Peace Officers Association (NLPOA) surprised them with a shopping spree at Target through its Operation Holiday Spirit program. Honoring family, education, and community through service and mentorship is the motto of NLPOA and this was definitely evident as the San Gabriel Valley members showed the true spirit of giving at the Rosemead Target. Transportation from the school to Target was sponsored by L.A. County Supervisor, Hilda Solis and once the students arrived, they were paired up with a NLPOA volunteer and given a $75 Target gift card to spend.
The smiles were endless as they browsed the aisles in search of the items they wanted including games, toys, clothes, sports equipment and books. NLPOA-SGV holds several fundraisers throughout the year to fund events like Operation Holiday Spirit. The group is happy to give back to the kids and support the community. “Giving back to the community and supporting the youth is very important to us,” said Dolores Chavez, NLPOA-SGV member and coordinator of the Operation Holiday Spirit event. “It’s heartwarming to see the excitement on the kids’ faces and being able to make the holidays brighter for them is wonderful.” Volunteers came from a variety of organizations and included members of the El Monte Police Department, California Highway Patrol (CHP) with their mascot Chipper,
Courtesy photo
L.A. County Sheriffs-Temple City Station, Los Angeles Police Department, L.A. County Probation, NLPOA-SGV, school teachers, LA Financial Credit Union, who supplied the shopping bags, and many others who had a great time helping the students. “I’m having a great time shopping with Luis,” said Deputy Catano from the Temple City Sheriffs. “He’s a great kid and he was able to pick out some really good stuff.” Luis also had a great time and thought it was really nice that the he and his school mates were able to go shopping. “This is really fun. I really wanted this Nintendo Game system so I’m super happy to have it and I also got two sweaters and a pair of shoes.”
Detective Ed Nafarrate from the El Monte Police Department hit the toy and clothing sections with his shopping buddy, Brian. “I really enjoy this event and shopping with the kids,” said Nafarrate. “To see their excitement is priceless. Brian and I spent a lot of time in the toy section and he got to select some toys he really wanted and he was also able to get some clothes and shoes.” In addition to selecting items for themselves, many students had the giving spirit themselves and purchased gifts for their siblings and family members. “Shopping was a lot of fun,” said Eric who had a bag full of games and toys. “I got to pick out some really Go Shopping continued on page 14
South CALifornia News USDA Provides Additional Assistance in Counties Hit by Wildfires by Staff Writers San Gabriel Valley / LA County
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that households in three California counties have been approved to receive Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP) benefits. D-SNAP will be offered in parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties due to the impact of the Woolsey and Hill wildfires, and Butte County in northern California due to the Camp Fire. Households in the affected areas may be eligible if they have qualifying disaster-related expenses and meet D-SNAP income limits. “USDA continues to work closely with state and local officials to help victims deal with the widespread damage caused by these fires,” said USDA’s Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services Brandon Lipps. “We want to do everything we can to make the recovery easier. Helping people put food on the table is one vital way we can do that.” If a household in the affected area qualifies for D-SNAP, they could receive one month of benefits to
meet their food needs as they settle back home following the disaster. Households in certain zip codes that already receive SNAP benefits will automatically receive disaster supplements, up to the maximum allotment for their household size, and are not eligible to apply for D-SNAP. The timing and conditions of DSNAP vary with the circumstances of each disaster, but the program always begins after access to retailers has been restored and families are able to purchase food to prepare at home. Before operating D-SNAP in an approved county, the state must ensure that conditions related to safety and readiness are in place. Affected households should look for public information notices from the state regarding the application process, location of application sites, and dates of application in each county. Today’s announcement is the latest of multiple actions taken to help California residents cope with the effects of recent wildfires. USDA provided assistance to an estimated 8,000 residents of Butte County and the surrounding area through the Disaster Household Food Distribu-
Courtesy photo
tion Program. The department recently approved California’s request to issue mass replacement of SNAP benefits to affected beneficiaries in parts of Ventura, Los Angeles, Butte and Plumas Counties. Butte County schools will be allowed flexibility in providing lunch
and breakfast meals due to food shortages caused by road closures and hazardous conditions. Butte County schools are also authorized to provide breakfast and lunch to students at no cost to them due to the large number of students Wildfires continued on page 16
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Mid Mid Valley Valley News News
December 12, 2018
Mid Valley News Sports Boys and Girls Basketball Showing Strong Competition Early by Staff Writer El Monte / San Gabriel
In high school sports, the time between the end of the football season and beginning of baseball season is often referred to as the doldrums – a time when nothing much is happening. So in honor of those students
-athletes throughout the El Monte / South El Monte community who have made the commitment to have the attitude, dedication, and focus lo learn about teamwork, self-discipline, and integrity throughout the year, we are taking a little space in this issue of the Mid Valley News to highlight a couple of schools who are doing well in a sport other than football or baseball. All team rankings are based on the most recent CIF – Southern Section poll on December 3rd and are the last rankings until January 7th. All stats are courtesy of MaxPreps, who does a ranking of their own but is driven only by statistics and not polls. Boys Basketball It’s early in the season, and conference schedule has not started, but things are looking competitive between two rivals in the Mission Valley League. The El Monte Lions are in first place with a with a record of 8-2 the Lions of El Monte High School and are currently ranked number one in Division 5AA. are ranked #1. Behind sophomore guard Josh Penunri, averaging 17 points per game, and freshman guard Nathan Serrano, averaging 13.5 points per game, El Monte
can flat out score, and their defense is in the top 3 of the league. The South El Monte Eagles boast the two best scorers in the league with Sophomore Josue Ramirez and Junior Robert Felix. The two gentlemen are also number three and four in scoring averages which probably accounts for the 6-3 start to their season and number 6 ranking in Division 5AA. Ramirez, averaging 11.6 points per game, and Felix with an average of 10.6 points per game, lead the Eagles who account for the first five scoring leaders in the Mission Valley League. The El Monte Lions just don’t miss the basket and score a ton of points. If their hot shooting cools off and the defense softens a bit, they make end the season looking up at the Eagles. Girls Basketball There is Rosemead High School, there is Marshall, and there is everybody else. Rosemead is undefeated with ten straight wins, scoring an incredible 53 points per game while allowing only 37.4. Not to be outdone, Marshall is also undefeated at 7-0, also averaging 53 point per game and allowing only 28.9 points per game. MaxPreps almost guarantees
Rosemead a shot at both league and division 4AA titles, but Marshall has a stingy defense and is not going away. While Rosemead has sustained their excellence over a longer stretch than Marshall, the Panthers better keep their foot on the accelerator. That is what can be called a good start to a promising season for a couple of crosstown rivals and we look forward to the upcoming league games.
City School District Hosts Conga Kids Dance Competition by Raymond Mendoza, Contributing Writer and Staff El Monte
If you don’t like seeing kids dance, then you probably don’t like puppies either. I’m not saying you should run out and save a litter of puppies, but you should take advantage of the El Monte City School District’s participation in the Conga Kids Program on Wednesday, December 12th at 5:30 pm in the Durfee School Auditorium. Watch 98 fifth-graders from Cherrylee, Cleminson, Columbia, Cortada, Durfee, Gidley and Le Gore School as they shuffle, twirl and foxtrot for a panel of judges and compete in a Conga Kids semi-final event, which will determine the first of two El Monte City School District teams that will compete at the organization’s Spring Fling Finaltournament in late May 2019 at the Microsoft Square in Los Angeles. Co-founded in 2016 by Brad Gluckstein and Daniel Ponickly, Conga Kids is a 501(c)(3) arts education nonprofit organization. Together, Mr. Gluckstein and Mr. Ponickly established Conga Kids as premiere classroom-based dance program, producing a curriculum that speaks more to the demographic of our local population, focusing on social dances like Salsa, Merengue,
and Swing, along with more traditional ballroom dances like Foxtrot and Tango. Conga Kids is a common-core aligned partner-dance program that teaches students a range of dances including Merengue, Swing, Salsa, Tango, and Foxtrot. The dance curriculum is a great combination of physical education and visual and performing arts, while also supporting English language arts and social science standards. In addition to learning and completing physical movements, students also develop language and contextual understanding around the dances, learning the significance of movement, rhythm, and symbolism of dance in a cultural and historical context. In 2016, Conga Kids provided dance programs in three school districts, 30 schools and reaching 3,100 students. This number nearly doubled in the 2017 school year, as Conga Kids partnered with over 52 schools in 7 school districts throughout Los Angeles County, reaching over 6,000 students in underserved populations including Lynwood, Boyle Heights, Central Los Angeles, Compton, Mar Vista, El Monte, Pomona, and Hollywood. This Conga Kids Semi-Final event is open to the public in the hallowed halls of the Durfee School Audi-
Dance Competition continued on page 15
Hometown Hero’s Sponsored by the U.S. Army
Hometown Hero’s is a page dedicated to recognizing the local everyday hero. A hero can be anyone who goes out of their way to help others. A person who makes a difference in others life or even someone who inspires others by their deeds.
Big Trucks, Bigger Impact
U.S Army Recruiting Battalion Los Angeles Commander LTC Patrick M. Flood
Soldiers from the 2632nd Transportation company rolled in to Oroville late Sunday. Based in Sacramento, it took the convoy over four hours to move their trucks in. A sun-down curfew on the mountain meant it was too late for them to get started that night, but they were ready for action at 7:30 the next morning. David Johnson, a USDA wilderness specialist, said he saw the impact immediately. “There was no way we could keep up. First day the guys were here, they moved 90 tons like that,” he said, snapping his fingers together. “They brought 200 gallons of water at a time. They took the deuce and a half (M35 cargo truck), and it was incredible. They got 30 bales to someone who had 100 goats.” He said the acceleration of supply has had a tremendous impact on the area residents. “It’s been a pleasure to watch the morale,” Johnson said. “When you show up, the people, they realize this can happen. I see them smile for the first time.”
U.S Army Recruiting Battalion Los Angeles Command Sergeant Major CSM Elvin Nuells
San Gabriel Valley Commander CPT Gerardo Gomez
San Gabriel Valley First Sergeant 1SG Michael Frischknecht
Loyalty Duty Respect Selfless Service Honor Integrity Personal Courage
Hauling pet food and bucking hay isn’t the kind of work the Transportation Company is used to. “Normally our mission is transporting infantry and personnel,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey M. Hawley, Operations NCO and truck master for the 2632nd. “This is something we never thought we’d be doing, but we’re doing it.” The company moved quickly once called, and the unconventional assignment just gave them an opportunity for a new perspective on the skills they can bring to an emergency response. “We think about the human impact, not just their livelihood,” said Hawley. “It’s a good experience, to understand the broad perspective.” Platoon Leader 2nd Lt. Mackenzie Q. Foss moved to California just a few months ago from South Dakota. New to the company and the state, Foss had never been mobilized for a emergency active duty before. She said she’s been moved by the experience. ‘It just breaks my heart - just seeing the area, the number of people it has affected,” she said. “It’s really eye opening to see the way the community pulls together. We’re working with civilians and combined forces to help any way we can.” Foss repeated a common sentiment among the crews, remarking on how quickly the operations had come together. She credited the leadership of her team, who she said helped ensure the Soldiers knew what to do, even with the unusual mission. Hawley agreed. “We’ve got an awesome team,” he said. “We have a lot of senior NCOs who did this work on deployment. Our leadership is unfolding to our junior Soldiers, who are out here learning a lot.” Spc. Miguel Costa, a truck driver, said it was a rewarding experience. He’s been with the unit since 2015, and has gone out on fire missions before, but he hasn’t worked on an operation quite like this. “It’s good to see civilians helping, and law enforcement,” Costa said. “It’s great to see a joint task force, and everyone participating.
We want your help in identifying the local hero’s by letting us know of someone you feel is deserving. We will then review all the request and select a person. Please send your request to Michael.A.Frischknecht.mil@mail.mil or call (323)309-0877. It’s good to see the community itself coming out.” Costa said he wasn’t surprised by how quickly the coordinated effort came together. “My team is on it,” he said. “No matter if it’s last minute, we always get rolling right on the spot.”
Guardsman uses Culture to Train, Advise and Assist Afghan Counterparts At two years old, U.S. Army Capt. Vincent Garcia said he remembers helping his mother as she would go from house to house providing cleaning services. “My mother was born in Guadalajara, Mexico and my father was born in California but raised in Mexico, so they mainly spoke Spanish,” said Garcia. “My mother would take me with her to clean houses so I could translate for her.” Garcia, the youngest of six children, said he grew up learning the importance of family and communities helping each other. “I have a big family and we always had something going on ... we had parties for anything, we used it as a way bring everyone together and have fun,” he said. “My family was and has been supportive of all my decisions my entire life; they are very important to me.” As a teenager in East Los Angeles, Garcia said he relied on school activities and his education in order to stay out of trouble. “I was in the scouts, I was a member of the boys club, I was a jock and a musician,” said Garcia. “Being an athlete and a musician forced me to focus on my academics, I had to do well in order to be eligible to perform, and that’s how I survived East Los Angeles.” After graduating from high school and California State University Northridge, Garcia landed a well-paying information technology job, but after the attacks of 9/11 he was inspired to join the California Army National Guard by his brother. “My brother was prior service, and after the attacks -- hearing him talk about serving his country -- again inspired me to want to join as well,” he explained. “He left the service after his first contract and I’m still here, I found I enjoyed the military and loved being part of it.” With 15 years of service under his belt, Garcia is currently on his third deployment and is serving as an advisor in the Provincial Civil Advising Team for Train, Advise and Assist Command-South. “I advise the operations and logistic representatives for the Afghan National Army, and the four district chief of police and chief of security,” said Garcia. “My priority is to help them overcome any challenges they may encounter and open lines of communication with higher headquarters like Resolute Support to help them accomplish their missions.” Garcia, who is a field artillery officer in the California National Guard, said he continues to work in the information technology community when he is not in uniform and that he enjoys having two different ca-
reers. “Being in the IT world, I think I have gained some experience that has helped me ‘think out of the box’ when making decisions instead of just thinking in that military perspective,” said Garcia. “As National Guard Soldiers, we have the advantage of having two different worlds, which give us different experiences.” U.S. Army Lt. Col. Kincy C. Clark, the senior advisor for the PCAT, said he is grateful to have a committed Guardsmen like Garcia who emulates the term citizen-Soldier. “He came into the role of an advisor with technical, computer and sales skills that he was able to obtain in his civilian career and it’s allowing him to communicate with our Afghan partners well during our key leader engagements,” he explained. “He has been doing well and I know he will continue to help the team enhance the capabilities of our Afghan partners.” Yet although Garcia’s knowledge and experience have helped him in his mission as an advisor, Clark said Garcia’s Hispanic background has helped him better understand his counterparts. “While there are clear differences between the Hispanic and Afghan culture, they share the prioritization of family and were it sits in their culture,” said Clark. “His understanding and awareness of how family can be a priority in someone’s life above other things, I think helps him understand how they ultimately make decisions.”
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Mid Valley News
December 12, 2018
Community Corner
LOW-COST DOG & CAT VACCINE CLINICS FOURTH WEDNESDAYof EVERY MONTH 5:30 - 7:30 pm ZAPOPAN PARK - PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDING 8301 Garvey Ave., Rosemead, CA Hosted by City of Rosemead Public Safety - Vet Services provided by H.E.A.R.T.
www.heart4pets.org
heart4pets.info@gmail.com
(714) 993-9193
! Prior Rabies Certificate required for 3-year Rabies vaccine; otherwise vaccine is good for 1 year ! Bring prior vaccine records if possible ! Licensing available ! Flea &Tick & Heartworm Control medication available (price depends on pet’s weight) ! Nail trims if time allows ($10) ! Anal gland expressions ($5) ! Dogs must be on leashes & cats must be in carriers (no cardboard carriers) ! $2 Haz Mat Disposal Fee charged per pet ! Prices below are CASH discount prices ! $3 more per pet for Debit/Credit Card transactions - NO checks accepted ! Low-Cost Dental Cleaning, Extractions, and other Wellness Services offered at our Sunday vaccine clinics in Orange County (Dentals by appointment only) ! View our website Calendar for dates We can NOT vaccinate pets which may be sick, pregnant, nursing puppies/kittens less than 4 weeks old, or have had a prior adverse reaction to a vaccine. Please notify our staff upon your arrival if your pet has recently shown any sign of illness, is on any medication, or has any medical/health condition.
AVID MICROCHIPS for DOGS & CATS
$30
(Includes PetTrac Registration & 24/7 Lost & Found Pet Recovery Assistance)
ROUNDWORM DE-WORMING $13 per dose TAPEWORM DE-WORMING RABIES
(Thimerosal Free for Dogs & Cats)
$15 - $35 per dose
(12 wks & older) $7
The first Rabies vaccine is good for 1 year, regardless of pet’s age. Thereafter, Rabies vaccines are good for 3 years as long as at least 12 months have passed since the pet received its first Rabies vaccination and valid proof of a prior Rabies vaccination by a licensed veterinarian in the U.S. is provided.
PUREVAX RABIES for Cats: (Non-Adjuvant) (12 wks & older) 1-yr: $20
3-yr:
$48
DHP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo) - or - DHPP (DHP with Parainfluenza) (6 wks & older) $20 BORDETELLA w/PARAINFLUENZA (Intranasal Bronchiseptica & Parainfluenza) (4 wks & older) $15 LYME (Borrelia Burgdorferi) (9 wks & over) $22 FVRCP
(Non-Adjuvant) (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calici, and Panleukopenia) (6 wks & over) $20
FELV (Non-Adjuvant) (Feline Leukemia) (8 wks & over) $22 Pets should always receive an initial series of vaccinations, then boosters in one year. Thereafter, annual vaccinations or vaccinations every three years are recommended, depending on the type of vaccine and on the pet’s environment. Ideally, pets should receive one of their sets of initial vaccines between 14 to 16 weeks of age to achieve the best immunity against disease. During your pet’s initial vaccine series, do not wait longer than 6 weeks apart to have your pet vaccinated and do not vaccinate less than 2 weeks apart. All pets adopted from shelters should receive the appropriate vaccine boosters 1 month after adoption.
Kaiser Permanente Helps County to Combat Food Communities Impacted by Insecurity for Woolsey Fire Foster Youth by Staff El Monte
Kaiser Permanente Southern California announced a $650,000 contribution to provide immediate support for relief and recovery efforts in communities impacted by the Southern California Woolsey Fire. Kaiser Permanente is giving $500,000 to the United Way of Greater Los Angeles. The health care organization will also provide $150,000 to the Ventura County Community Foundation with $50,000 specifically allocated to the foundation for organizational capacity support and the balance for disaster survivor relief and recovery. “Kaiser Permanente serves almost a quarter million members in the areas impacted by the Southern California fires,” said Julie MillerPhipps, president, Kaiser Permanente in Southern California. “The devastation has saddened us deeply as we keep hearing about heartbreaking losses and the emotional toll that it’s understandably taken. With many people beginning the long process of starting over, we’re honored to be
able to work with our community partners to assist in the recovery during this critical time.” “We are grateful for the fast response and generous aid Kaiser Permanente provided to United Way of Greater Los Angeles’ Disaster Relief Fund,” said Elise Buik, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Los Angeles. This is a critical time and this contribution will help vulnerable individuals and families rebuild their lives.” Vanessa Bechtel, president & chief executive officer of the Ventura County Community Foundation also expressed gratitude for the donation, stating, “We truly appreciate Kaiser Permanente for being a close community partner that cares about our mission and helping those struck by a tragedy as devastating as the Woolsey Fire. This donation helps us with the process of relief and recovery that is badly needed for Ventura County.” Kaiser Permanente has contributed financial resources to relief and Woolsey Fire continued on page 16
by Staff El Monte
Former foster youth, also known as transition age youth, who are between the ages of 18-24, are among the most vulnerable populations in the County. Through no fault of their own, these youth are often faced with a multitude of difficulties, including hunger and insufficient healthy food. In response, today the Board of Supervisors approved a motion authored by Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, and co-authored by Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, to implement a comprehensive and strategic plan to enroll more transition age youth in CalFresh benefits. “No one should have to go hungry in LA County,” said Supervisor Solis. “My action today expands the County’s outreach to some of our most vulnerable populations: youth who are in extended foster care or who have exited the foster care system. By doubling down on the County’s efforts to sign-up and provide CalFresh to these youth, we are recommitting ourselves to doing
everything we can to serve the vulnerable youth of LA County.” Today’s action directs County Departments to ensure adequate training on the CalFresh application process, and to assist transition age youth with applying for CalFresh upon every placement change. The motion also requires County Departments to track eligibility and usage data, and report back to the Board of Supervisors every quarter on the access to CalFresh among transition age youth. “One out of every three Transition Age Youth are identified as ‘food insecure’, meaning they skip meals or go without eating for a whole day simply because they don’t have enough money to eat,” said Supervisor Kuehl. “Many current and former foster youth are eligible for CalFresh, which could help them pay for food, but they often don’t even know they can apply. This motion, in conjunction with our housing motion last week which will expand housing opportunities for these young adults, Foster Youth continued on page 15
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Mid Valley News
Congresswoman Chu City Council Says Promotes Academic and Thank You to Macias, Gomez, and Hawes Community Services in Public Schools by Staff Writer El Monte
by Staff Writer El Monte
Representative Judy Chu (CA-27) introduced H.R. 7204, the Developing Innovative Partnerships and Learning Opportunities that Motivate Achievement (DIPLOMA) Act. The DIPLOMA Act would provide federal grants to states to support community schools and develop a comprehensive child and youth strategy. States would award subgrants to local consortia, in which a school works with at least one community partner. Community partners can be public or private organizations like local governments or institutions of higher education, local nonprofits or child and youth-serving organizations, or even local businesses or foundations. A community School Consortium receiving grant funds could use them to increase support for early childhood education, early reading programs, child care, home visiting, and parental education, develop programs for students and parents to learn together, offer multiple routes to a high school diploma, support mentoring, and more. Rep. Chu released the following statement:
“As a former teacher, I know that a good education is the best path to future success. But too many students are too distracted by hunger or a difficult home life. Other parents who do want to take an active role in their child’s schooling need education themselves. That is what this bill is meant to address. We trust our public schools to educate and prepare our future leaders, but they do not exist on an island, they are a part of our community, and therefore, both community and school stand to gain from working together.” The DIPLOMA Act is cosponsored by Reps. Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40), Grace Meng (NY-06), Eleanor Holmes-Norton (DC), Barbara Lee (CA-13), and Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11). It is supported by: America’s Promise Alliance, Coalition for Community Schools, First Focus Campaign for Children, Healthy Schools Campaign, National Association of Elementary School Principals, National Association of Secondary School Principals, National Summer Learning Association, Public Education for Kids, Public Advocacy for Kids, Rural School and Community Trust, School-Based Health Alliance, and School Social Public Schools continued on page 16
As Midterm Elections bring sweeping reforms to legislatures both big and small, even El Monte finds itself affected by such changes. El Monte City Council met last Tuesday for what appeared to be a final meeting with its current members. With Councilwoman Norma Macias not seeking reelection and Councilman Juventino “J” Gomez losing his race, both will not be returning to the council in 2019. Despite their best efforts to maintain their professional appearance, members of the city staff were visibly saddened. Both council members Macias and Gomez were well respected by their colleagues and the citizens.
While Gomez was present for the meeting, he left without a formal farewell. He simply whispered a few words to his colleagues and walked out of the council chambers for the last time. “He left with the class and dignity that he served in the last 15 years. He did not want any special ceremony or recognition,” said Mayor Andre Quintero. However, it wasn’t just the council’s last meeting together. Treasurer Richard Thomas will also not be returning to his position after an unsuccessful bid for city council and City Clerk Jonathan Hawes was unseated during the midterm elections. “I’d like to thank Richard Thomas. He replaced me as Treasurer and I think he did a great job,” said CounCity Council continued on page 16
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December 12, 2018
Mid Valley News
Webb’s Rule GOOD LIFE by Eugene R. Webb
I want to tell you what I have found; That any day is good above ground. I have been enjoying a real good life; With my wonderful children and wife. I am so grateful I don’t know where to start; Ever since I found that God lives in my heart. And there is truly one thing I do believe; That it’s through God’s love that I have achieved.
Today I am as happy as I can possibly be; For God has been good to my entire family. I live because he has removed so much strife; That I find I’m living a friendly and good life. I’m not perfect, but I try hard to do what’s right; That’s why I can sleep so peaceful at night. I also treat people the way I like to be treated too; That’s why I have some wonderful friends like you.
Baker School Hosts Incredible Assembly by Michelle Earle, Contributing Writer El Montey
Baker School celebrated its incredible students, staff, parents and families at an Incredibles themed Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) assembly honoring the students for their efforts with the PBIS program. The campus was adorned with awesome decorations created by the parent volunteers. Proudly wearing their Incredible Charger t-shirts, the students got a great surprise when the Madrid Middle School Band marched in, opening the assembly with some great music. Students took to the stage to put on skits showing proper PBIS behavior and respectful ways to correct wrong behaviors. Baker’s PBIS team, led by coaches Jennifer Montoya and Laura Brumby, does an incredible job with the school’s PBIS program and the incredible Baker Chargers continue to display great behavior as they model being safe, being re-
spectful and being responsible. The educational research community has been developing and studying Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) since 1997 when an amendment of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) included the language, “Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports,” which described methods used to identify and support desired behaviors in the school setting. PBIS seeks to reduce or eliminate poor behavior schoolwide through the encouragement of positive behaviors. School climate has bearing on attendance rates, academic achievement, and graduation rates. Regardless of socioeconomic status, students in a positive school climate are more likely to have higher test scores and greater academic success. In addition, positive school climate helps students to develop the social and emotional skills they will need Baker School continued on page 14
“Connie’s Comments” Twelve years ago, I received an e-mail from Elsie Nelson to let me know men are never depressed. “Men are just happier people – what do you expect from such simple creatures?” she wrote. I’ve been thinking about that for, oh, 20 minutes or so, and in a way she’s right or perhaps it depends on whom one marries. For instance: “Men’s last name stays put.” I had no problem changing my name. My Dad and Mom didn’t mind and it was a chance to start a new life. Of course, if one is going to marry a bank robber or porn star, you might reconsider. “Men think the garage is all theirs.” Nope, the garage is OURS. It was written in our marriage license. Connie will have room to store all the gadgets, gizmos and projects she thinks she will complete someday. “Men think chocolate is just a snack.” Chocolate is a major food group. Just ask my sisters. Go ahead, I dare you to take a box of See’s away from any one of them! After 46 years of marriage I have my hubby hooked but only on dark chocolate. “Men say a woman can be president.” A woman could be President. All my teachers told me that, with a little smile on their faces. But what woman in her right mind would want to be President? I have a coronary every time I balance my checkbook. I can’t imagine working a national budget plan. “Men can never be pregnant.” This is totally unfair on God’s part. But I wouldn’t want to be in the delivery room if guys could have babies. My Terry wails if he gets a
by Connie Keenan El Monte
splinter. I say he’s a wimp. A sweet wimp. My wimp. But wimp nonetheless. “Men say wrinkles add character.” PUH-leeeese! Show me a man that makes passes to women with wrinkles and I’ll show you a pervert! I get it, you mean guy’s wrinkles add character. No fair! “Men say phone conversations should last no more than 30 seconds.” Mostly because they put their wives on the phone to get the important details. “Men say one can do Christmas shopping for 25 relatives on December 24th in 20 minutes.” My husband “lets” me make all the decisions when it comes to Christmas, birthdays, wedding gives, showers and dedications. Now, tell me right now why I can’t be president? Oh yeah, it’s the checkbook thing.
“Working Overtime”
“A Christmas Poem” I received my annual poem from an old friend, Dr. John Phalen (or I should say the “Reverend, Dr. John Phalen, but I have known him for so long I just call him John). I first met Dr. Phalen when I was the Director of Sales/Marketing for the Holiday Inn people in Boyle Hts. and John was the Director of the International Institute which he had built into one of the premier organizations dealing with the refugee crises created at the end of the Viet Nam War and with the messy fall of Saigon. Dr. Phalen had teamed up with our hotel manager to establish a “Hospitality Training Program” for many of the “boat people” that had been relocated in Los Angeles. He already had a “Dental Assistant Training Program” in Lincoln Hts. and over the next few years he was able to place literally thousands of the refugees into stable living conditions where they were able to become productive citizens of their new country. John Phalen is what they use to refer to as a “Renaissance Man”. A good administrator, a spiritual thinker and a great writer, so I wasn’t surprised to find out that he was also an ordained minister. But to be honest, the thing I liked best about him
by Dick James El Monte is that he is a play write and I have performed in several of his plays ( if you are a regular reader of this column you know that there is still a lot of ham left in this thespian) I think that I am still up on U-tube in his play “The Order” if you look real hard for it. I called John to thank him for this year’s poem and to catch up on what he and his lovely wife Sherry are doing. Sherry is another treat, she grew up in China in the same area as the current Chinese leader and she Working Overtime continued on page 16
September December 12, 30, 2018 2015
Mid Valley News
“Cracker Barrel”
“Si se pueda” – “Yes we can” by: Mike McClure, Staff Writer El Monte
…so Saturday I attended the swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected city & school leaders here in El Monte. The event was held in the auditorium of El Monte H.S. and was interesting. There was a group that had been protesting outside about the latest Marijuana issue, but they were allowed to quietly come inside for the presentations. For me the highlight was the swearing in of new councilmember Maria Morales by Maria Elena Chavez, the daughter of Dolores Huerta and the late Cesar Chavez’s niece. Councilmember Morales told the story of her father, a farm worker and the condition that they had endured in the early days of the United Farm Workers Union. Her story reminded me of an interview that Dolores Huerta once did for National Public Radio (NPR) when she was asked about the day to day conditions that the farmworkers in the field faced at the time, she answered: “Well, the conditions were terrible. The farmworkers were only earning 70 cents an hour at the time and 90 cents was the highest that they were earning. They didn’t have toilets in the fields, they didn’t have cold drinking water. They didn’t have rest periods. People worked from sunup to sundown. It was really atrocious. And families were so poor. “I think that’s one of the things that really infuriated me. When I saw people in their homes-they had
dirt floors. And the furniture was orange crates and cardboard boxes. People were so incredibly poor and they were working so hard. And the children were suffering from malnutrition and were very ill-clothed and ill-fed. I said, ‘This is wrong!’ because you saw how hard they were working, and yet they were not getting paid anything.” Later in the interview, Ms. Huerta was asked the origin of the slogan, “Si se pueda”-“Yes we can” which is now familiar to anyone concerned with not only the farmworkers and immigrant’s rights but the human and civil rights of the homeless and needy throughout our society. She answered: “We were in Arizona. We were organizing people in the community to come and support us. They had passed a law in Arizona that if you said ‘boycott’ you go to prison for six months. And if you said ‘strike’ you could go to prison. So we were trying to organize against that law. And I was speaking to a group of professionals in Arizona, to see if they could support us. “And they said, ‘Oh, here in Arizona you can’t do any of that. In Arizona no se pueda-no you can’t’ And I said, ‘No, in Arizona si se pueda’. And when I went back to our meeting that we had every night there…I gave that report to everybody and when I said, si se pueda, everybody started shouting, ‘Si se pueda-Si se pueda!’. And so that became the slogan of our campaign in Arizona and now is the slogan for the immigrant Cracker Barrel continued on page 16
Shively Students Dive into Marine Biology by Staff Writersr San Gabriel Valley
Shively Middle School students were transformed into marine biologists last week during the Natural History Museum’s Mobile Ocean Experience. The program features a “dive off the coast of California” inside the museum’s submarine simulation. The mobile museum provides an interactive experience for student scientists to learn about the biodiversity of our coastline, as well as how the ocean has changed over time. The students examined organisms and ocean life from the past, including artifacts dating back over half a century. Sixth grader, Cindy Nguyen shared “it was incredible to hold fish that were alive 50 years ago!” She went on to explain that “they looked just like the fish we saw swimming outside the port holes in the submarine.” Using comparative biology and paleontology, groups of students collaborated to examine the different characteristics of a variety of organisms, observe specimens, and gather evidence to draw probable conclu-
sions. Upon exiting the submarine, students moved into the laboratory setting. There they formed research teams to study how parts of the Los Angeles Basin have changed over time. In order to predict where and when animals and sea life were living, students examined fossil specimens and developed their own theories based on environmental clues. Student, Julian Hernandez, reported holding “fossilized shells from a long time ago. It was fun to predict where they came from and when they lived.” Through the submarine simulation and the laboratory experience, students gained a unique understanding of the work done by marine scientists. According to Shively principal, Elizabeth Evans, “The hands-on nature of marine research and exploration, combined with the creativity through inquiry, will hopefully inspire some of our students to pursue a career in Marine Biology. This experience brought science to life for our Shively Saints.” The Marine Biology continued on page 16
Page Page 119
Metropolitan Protects Leadership Today. Water Tomorrow – Part II by StaffWriter El Monte
This is part two in a four-part series of The Mid Valley News providing an edited version of “Leadership Today. Water Tomorrow”, an overview of Metropolitan’s proud legacy and forward-looking leadership which has positioned Southern California to meet tomorrow’s water challenges. Safeguarding the quality of the Southland’s drinking water is core to the Metropolitan Water District’s mission and essential to protecting public health. Metropolitan is a national leader in treating and providing safe drinking water that meets or exceeds stringent state and federal water quality standards. Metropolitan owns and operates five treatment plants, among the largest in the world, that can produce billions of gallons of high-quality drinking water every day. Thanks to a system-wide retrofit completed in 2017, Metropolitan’s treatment plants now use ozone as the primary disinfectant. This process is more effective than traditional chlorine disinfection because it improves and protects the quality of drinking water and reduces disinfection byproducts associated with chlorination. Metropolitan’s scientists are nationally known for developing innovative methods for the early detection of constituents of concern such as pathogens. At Metropolitan’s state-of-the-art water quality laboratory in La Verne, Metropolitan also plays a significant role in developing future regulatory requirements. The Water District relies on both advanced technology and the human senses to detect constituents in water that have potential health as well
as taste and odor impacts. A Flavor Profile Panel, comprised of specially trained staff, routinely taste and smell water gathered from throughout the distribution system for early detection of issues. By making investments in watershed protection programs, Metropolitan safeguards its source waters of the Colorado River and State Water Project, helping to prevent contaminants from entering the distribution system. Invasive species in the watershed can have significant effects on water quality and aquatic ecosystem health, so Metropolitan supports programs and coordinated efforts to prevent and manage the spread of quagga and zebra mussels, and other non-native species. As a major steward of the region’s water supply resources, Metropolitan is committed to a comprehensive planning process that addresses climate change impacts and ensures greater water supply reliability. Metropolitan strategically plans to effectively manage water system operations and infrastructure to ensure the sustainability of communities, businesses and the natural environment throughout Southern California today and in the future. Over the past decade, California has had eight drought years. If not for Metropolitan’s smart planning, including building Diamond Valley Lake – Southern California’s largest reservoir, the region would have faced severe shortages. Today, work continues to assess the region’s storage capabilities to identify what new investments are needed. As an agency responsible for delivering water in one of the world’s most seismically active regions, Metropolitan has a comprehensive plan to enhance the resiliency of infrastructure and water deliveries in response to earthquakes. Planning for tomorrow’s water needs is done with an ever-evolving long-term water strategy known as the Integrated Water Resources Plan. The plan is regularly updated in a transparent, collaborative process involving member agencies and hundreds of stakeholders. The latest IRP update continues decades of work to diversify the region’s water portfolio by maintaining the reliability of imported supplies, expanding local supply development and reducing demand through conservation and water-use efficiency initiatives. The plan targets to increase water conservation savings with a greater emphasis on outdoor water efficiency, develop local supplies, including groundwater management, desalination and recycling, while exploring how stormwater capture can help maintain Colorado River Aqueduct supplies and stabilize In the Part III of our report, the Metropolitan Water Districts shares how they sustain and conserve water supplies.
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December 12, 2018
Mid Valley News
Rosemead School District Gets New Superintendent by Cynthia Bracamonte, Contributing Writer Rosemead
It took nearly six months, but the search is over, and the Rosemead School District has a new Supe! Completing its search for the next Superintendent, the Board of Trustees is announced the appointment of Mr. Alejandro Ruvalcaba, as the new Superintendent of Schools for the Rosemead School District. The Board of Trustees was very excited to have an excellent candidate pool of 34 candidates for the Superintendent position including applicants from diverse geographic and professional backgrounds. Stakeholders including students, parents, District employees, parent support groups, and the community members through group and individual input forums with feedback from a total of 221 individuals and more than 20 hours of comments. The Board of Trustees received the input report which included the District’s strengths and critical issues, as well as, the characteristics desired in the new superintendent which included unedited feedback composed from completed surveys collected through school sites, mailed in, and an online survey. Each member of the Board of Trustees reviewed each application submitted and as a team selected eight candidates to interview, of which two candidates were granted a final interview. The interview process included the checking of references prior to interviews. Currently, Mr. Alejandro Ruval-
caba is the Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources, in the Upland Unified School District. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise including experience as an Assistant Superintendent, Secondary Education, also in the Upland Unified School District, and a Principal at West Covina High School in the West Covina Unified School District. “The Board of Trustees has chosen a proven educational leader who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise of educational experiences,” said Ms. Nancy Armenta, President of the Board of Trustees. “We are confident and excited in our selection of Mr. Ruvalcaba, as the new Superintendent. The Board and District look forward to Mr. Ruvalcaba’s ability to lead the Rosemead School District into the future in a positive and successful direction by pushing the district and all students, to flourish and continue its stride towards excellence both academically and socially.” Mr. Ruvalcaba’s leadership has included key collaborative decisionmaking to provide the necessary supports to help students realize success. During his time as a leader with Upland Unified School District, Mr. Ruvalcaba led a number of initiatives including a strategic transition to Common Core Standards, equitable access to and effective use of technology as a means to support instruction and student achievement. Mr. Ruvalcaba is highly regarded for his commitment to equity, raising academic standards and addressing
achievement and opportunity gaps. Mr. Ruvalcaba’s responsive and collaborative approach has brought change to how students are sup-
forward to partnering with our Board of Trustees, dedicated staff, talented students, supportive families, and community partners to ensure we
ported. “I am humbled and honored to have been selected to serve the Rosemead School District as the new Superintendent of Schools. I look
provide a challenging academic environment that is safe, embraces diversity, and supports high levels of student achievement,” said Superintendent Ruvalcaba.
Assemblywoman Rubio Hosts Toy Drive by Ethan Peschansky Contributing Writer San Gabriel Valley
Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio hosted the Second Annual Holiday Mixer and Toy Drive at the MillerCoors Brewery in Irwindale. The event works in conjunction with the Los Angeles County Fire Department who distribute the toys to the less fortunate. The event was mostly private, calling on support from the Assemblywoman’s close friends and supporters. Many of the surrounding cities sent their own dignitaries to represent them at the event. “There are kids tonight who will not only not have food or shelter, but
when it’s Christmas time all their friends will be talking about toys and they won’t have any. The event comes on the heels of another charity event Assemblywoman Rubio helped to organize, Operation Gobble, which saw over 500 turkeys given to families in need. The event also comes a day after Rubio was sworn into office at a ceremony in Sacramento. Her election was historic in that she now serves alongside her sister, Senator Susan Rubio. Now fully sworn in, they are the first sisters to serve together in California’s state legislature. Dozens of toys were gathered at
10807 Ramona Blvd. El Monte, CA 91731 626.258.5800 www.emras.edu
Pre-Certification Nurse Assistant January 8, 2019 Ten-Week Day Program Twenty-Week Evening Program
Testing dates available • November 13 & 27, 2018 @ 5:00pm • December 3, 2018 @ 5:00pm Please bring the following ORIGINAL documents and items to the NA entrance exam: California photo ID Social Security Card #2 Pencil with an eraser
Toy Drive continued on page 13
The state of California regulates the hours required by this course. Theory and clinical instruction is provided by nursing instructors approved by CDPH, Department of Licensing and Certification.
Approximate Cost: $450.00
Schoolwide Learner Outcomes Effective Communicators Problem Solvers Lifelong Learners
*Note Criminal Clearance: Due to clinical facility requirements, students with a prior criminal conviction(s) are encouraged to be cleared by the Department of Justice prior to enrollment in the class. See Medical Occupations Department for further information, Room 216. CTE, NA [11-7-18]
December 12, 2018
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Mid Valley News
into Summer Fun C R O S S W O R D
S u d o k u
Crossword Puzzle solution in issue 12.19.18
Solution for Sudoku in issue 12.19.18
CIVICS LESSON ACROSS 1. Leprosy colony inhabitant 6. Pendulum’s path 9. Vegan’s protein choice 13. Friend from Mexico 14. H in HMS 15. Challenges 16. Pocket bread, pl. 17. “____ to Joy” 18. Subside 19. *____ election for choosing a party representative 21. *Alternative to electoral 23. Am is to I as ____ is to we 24. At the summit 25. ____-been 28. *One is a quarter of a Presidential term 30. Serfs of ancient Sparta 35. Lode deposits 37. Fireplace conduit 39. Stitch again 40. It’s hard to resist 41. Relating to certain Hindu philosophy 43. #33 Down, alt. sp. 44. Somer____ 46. EU money 47. “As ____ on TV” 48. Eye cover 50. What libraries do 52. Not decaf. 53. Kind of cola 55. Deborah, to friends 57. One who destroys 61. *Group of 538 electors 65. A variety show 66. ____ Baba 68. Dog-____ pages 69. Weather advisory, e.g. 70. Giant pot 71. “Give me your ____, your poor...” 72. Cremation pile 73. Lamb’s momma 74. Glorify
DOWN 1. Nordic native 2. ____ of Qatar, or Prince of Qatar 3. Rigatoni relative 4. Old World lizard 5. Prayer beads 6. Call to matey 7. *As opposed to blue 8. Moved like ivy 9. Not to be mentioned 10. *Like the citizenship Oath of Allegiance 11. Cheese on Peloponnese 12. One on drugs 15. ____ Dan, olden-day hair pomade 20. Full of corals 22. Expression of amazement 24. Salad green 25. *Lower chamber of Congress 26. Orderly arrangement 27. Smooth transition 29. Soothing plant gel 31. Classic game show “____ Make a Deal” 32. Willow twig 33. Conical dwelling 34. *____ state 36. Unload 38. Michael Collins’ country 42. Owned apartment 45. *Party’s list of candidates 49. Buck’s mate 51. “Get rid of” button 54. Desire something 56. Inflammatory swelling 57. Sandwich alternative 58. Bank on 59. At any time 60. “Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me” band, The ____ 61. Give a traffic ticket 62. Makes mistakes 63. STEM enthusiast? 64. Whirlpool 67. *Rule of ____
Chamber Raises Money for Emergency Resources Association by Staff Writer El Monte
The City of El Monte did a fantastic job decorating the inside of the Grace T. Black Auditorium in anticipation of the Holidays. Lights, gifts, and symbols of celebration ran along the edges of the open beam ceiling, the giant gold Christmas tree guarded by sentries from the Nutcracker, and entrance to the stage presented by very large teddy bears. This is, after all, the El Monte / South El Monte Chamber of Commerce 2018 Teddy Bear Mixer to support Lillian Rey and the El Monte / South El Monte Emergency Resources Association. Food was plentiful, fellowship abundant, and celebration overflowing at the 2017 Teddy Bear Mixer on Wednesday night at the Grace T. Black Auditorium. Politicians and Police Officers, teachers and taxpayers, citizens and business owners brought toys, games, and gifts to stack in front of the tree and layer in front of the stage. The community was well represented throughout the beautiful evening, as the price of admission was the simple and humble act of bringing an unwrapped present and trying to find room for it under the brilliant Christmas tree.
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Superintendent continued from page 12
the event and given over to the LA Fire Department. They came in all shapes and sizes. Everything from board games and teddy bears to full sized bicycles. “We’re always reaching out to different folks to come up with ideas so we can have toy drives like the one we are having today,”
Later, Lillian Rey, Director of the El Monte/South El Monte Emergency Resources Association will figure out how to get them all to her offices where the real work begins. The agency provides emergency food, financial assistance, holiday assistance, household goods, information and referral, medical equipment and supplies and personal goods. With higher taxes, increased food expenses, rising housing costs, and extreme budget cuts from the City, what Lillian and her tea provides really depends on the day Today, it means families who don’t have the resources to purchase Christmas presents – something many, if not most, of us take for granted. The organization survives on a shoestring budget, pieced together by Lillian every year from fundraisers, grants, and whatever other donations or money she can get. Lillian and her team will get to work in the morning, sorting, separating, matching and distributing hundreds of gifts to families throughout the communities of El Monte and South El Monte. But tonight, it’s about the lights along the beam, the bears on the stage, and the look of gratitude and appreciation highlighted by the smile on Lillian’s face.
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said Battalion Commander Jose Gomez. “At this time of season there are people out here who are in need.” Given the holiday theme of the cause, the event featured a full jazz band playing Christmas themed music, Christmas carolers, and holiday inspired cuisines. LA Fire plans on holding multiple toy drives leading up to the holidays and welcomes all people looking to make a contribution.
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Shopping continued from page 5
good games and toys that I’ll share with my brothers. Well, maybe not with my little brother because he breaks everything.”
Mid Valley News Julissa was very excited with her purchase and thankful to NLPOA for their kindness. “I can’t believe it, I got a FurReal Friend,” said Julissa. “It’s a Husky dog and his name is Ricky and I got it because I have a pet Husky in
December 12, 2018
Mexico. This was such a fun time for me and my friends and it was so nice of them to let us go shopping.” With their purchases in hand and joy and gratefulness in their hearts, the students headed back to the bus to return to school. The Mountain View School District and Cogswell School are extremely grateful to the NLPOA – San Gabriel Valley Chapter for their extraordinary kindness and generosity this holiday season. “On behalf of all our staff and families at Cogswell School, thank you so much for your generous outpouring of kindness for our students,” said Gerardo Yepez, Cogswell Principal. The goal of the National Latino Peace Officers Association is to promote equality and professionalism in law enforcement. NLPOA members build bridges between law enforcement and their communities while working to reduce neighborhood tensions through awareness programs and role model programs.
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The National Latino Peace Officers Association in the largest Latino law enforcement association in the United States.
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to become productive members of society. Baker’s students were celebrated for following the school’s PBIS behavior expectations and for being safe, respectful and responsible. A special prize wheel was spun by two selected students from each classroom who won Charger Dollars, Prizes from the Charger Store, Incredibles bags and Juicy Ear Buds. A special mystery prize was raffled off and one lucky student won a tablet that was donated to the school.
New President continued from page 1
El Monte/South El Monte area. “I look forward to learning and growing in this new role and working with the board in our efforts to ensure continued success for all our students,” Diaz said. Also serving on the Board of Trustees are Carlos G. Salcedo and outgoing president Maria Morgan. “It has been an honor to serve as president and work together for the benefit of our students and providing to them the service and education they need,” said Morgan, who was elected to the board in 2015. This year, El Monte Union celebrated many successes, including increasing parent and student engagement through various workshops; launching several academic programs, including an Early College Academy at South El Monte High School and Zoo Crew engineering program at Mountain View High School; expanding green initiatives across the District; and passing a $190 million with 72 percent of voter support. “Under the leadership and vision
of our Board of Trustees, I am confident that there is much more in store for El Monte Union and its students, who continually drive our efforts to improve our programs and offerings to ensure their post-secondary success,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said.
El Monte Union Board of Trustees member David Diaz was selected to serve as the board president for 2019. Diaz was elected to the board in November 2017. Courtesy photo.
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December 12, 2018
Newly Elected continued from page 1
part of that national movement to get more women elected and I think it’s fantastic for our city and for the agencies that have majority women on there.” However, despite Mayor Quintero’s success, there were those who
Mid Valley News sought to spoil his big victory. Dozens of protesters showed up to the ceremony and a few even found their way inside the auditorium where they heckled the mayor during his acceptance speech. The protesters wanted to express their disappointment of a El Monte Planning Commission decision to approve of a Marijuana distribution center in El Monte at 4400 Temple
City Blvd. “We worry that there will be a lot of drug dealers, gang members, people who take drugs, will rush into the community. We worry about our safety and our children,” said protest organizer Jimmy Liu. However, true to form, Mayor Quintero took the display gracefully. When protesters tried to heckle him during his speech, he smiled through the boos. Even while his police escort was hounded by protesters, Mayor Quintero maintained his friendly manner. Although he wasn’t slighted by the protest, Quintero does take their concerns seriously and is looking to have productive dialogue with them to ease their concerns. “As long as people are respectful, we can have a civil discourse about policy and which direction we are going in. I think that’s healthy,” Quintero said. “We want to make sure we’re addressing those substantive concerns.”
STEAM
Dance Competition
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Windtree Education, a California non-profit organization that was founded in 2010 in order to empower students to explore their talents in STEAM fields. Windtree Education offers programs in robotics and three-dimensional design, both of which provide students with supplemental educational opportunities outside of their regular school work that encourage them to engage with each other, learn, and have fun. Windtree Education’s mission is to develop students into the talented makers and innovators of tomorrow by giving them the means to bring their imaginations to life. Rather than adhering to strict, pre-determined curriculum, Windtree
torium located 12233 Star St in El Monte on Wednesday, December 12,
allows students the opportunity to investigate subjects they care about in an engaging and dynamic manner, the while supported by peers and mentors. Across the District and grade levels, students participate in a variety of STEAM lessons as part of daily instruction, after school programs and extended learning like the Saturday workshops.
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will help put them on a path to a stable and successful adulthood instead of hunger and homelessness.” According to Chapin Hall’s California Youth Transitions to Adulthood Study (or CalYOUTH), one in five transition age youth reported that they ate less than they should, and one in six youth reported that someone in their household skipped meals because of unaffordability. Almost one quarter of the participants reported not eating for a whole day almost every month. Overall, Courtesy photo
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Page 15 The mayor also made clear that the center was for distribution and cultivation of medicinal marijuana and that the city has no laws allowing the sale of recreational marijuana. “At this point, the law in the city of El Monte does not allow for retail sales,” Quintero said.
starting at 5:30 pm. For more information, readers are encouraged to contact the El Monte City School District by calling (626) 453-3700.
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30% of the transition age youth who participated in the study qualified as being food insecure using the measure set by the United States Department of Agriculture. Most notably, according to the County Welfare Directors Association, at age 19, only 33% of current and former foster youth had ever accessed CalFresh. Eligibility for CalFresh benefits is made on a case by case basis and considers the individual’s earned and unearned income, including any portion of the foster care payment they receive directly, including other assets, household composition, the amount of rent and utility expenses, student status, and other factors.
Mid Valley News
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December 12, 2018
Cracker Barrel
Marine Biology
Woolsey Fire
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rights movement.” I first met Dolores Huerta & Cesar Chavez in the late 60’s. We were a lot younger then but at 88 Dolores Huerta is still a strong voice for the rights of the farm workers, the immigrants, the homeless and workers from all walks of life. It was great to see her daughter at the Swearing-In Ceremony, Saturday and good luck to Councilwoman Morales and all of the other newly elected officials. “Si se pueda!” “Yes we can!”
Working Overtime continued from page 10
has a clinic in Seal Beach where she has acupuncture and herbal remedies available, that’s an entirely separate story that I am trying to get her to write about.
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) 522-1944 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
partnership between the Natural History Museum and the Valle Lindo School District is one aspect of the district’s STEM immersion program.
Dr Phalen is still teaching, he has established a school in Whittier “The New Millennium School” providing Bachelor/ Master/ Doctorial Programs for Spirit Centered Services. We had a long talk and I invited him to join with me on the “Working Overtime” team as a guest contributor to the column. I think you will enjoy his unique experiences and maybe I can talk him into writing another play for me. Reminder, this Sunday, December 16, 2018 The City of El Monte will once again present “The NutcrackerEl Cascanueces” at the beautiful El Monte High School Auditorium. There are two performances by the Campo Bello Margarita Robles Production, one at 1:00 PM and then at 4:00 PM. Take the kids it’s always a great time. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Wildfires Continued from page 5
left homeless by the wildfire. On Nov. 21, USDA announced a waiver allowing residents of 14 fire-affected counties to purchase hot foods with SNAP benefits. USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) works to reduce food insecurity and promote nutritious diets among the American people. The agency administers 15 nutrition assistance programs that leverage America’s agricultural abundance to ensure children and low-income individuals and families have nutritious food to eat. FNS also codevelops the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which provide sciencebased nutrition recommendations and serve as the cornerstone of federal nutrition policy.
recovery efforts following several major natural disasters this year. For instance, the health care organization donated more than $1 million in support of Southern California recovery efforts following the devastating Thomas Fire that impacted Ventura County last year. In addition, Kaiser Permanente also donated to the American Red
City Council
rales and Jessica Ancona solidifies a 3-2 women majority on the council. Women were also elected to other important municipal positions as well. Cathi Eredia and Viviana Longoria join the city as City Clerk and Treasurer respectively. With the newly elected council members and staff sworn in on Saturday, the next meeting, on December 18th, will be the first meeting with its new structure.
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cilman Jerry Velasco. “Thank you, Jonathan [Hawes]. You’re young. I know you will be doing a lot of things and congratulations on whatever you do next.” In 2019 the city council and staff will look drastically different. For starters, the addition of Maria Mo-
Public Schools continued from page 9
Work Association of America (SSWAA). “At its core, this legislation creates unity for every child’s opportunity,” said Jose Munoz, Director, Coalition for Community Schools, Institute for Educational Leadership and supporter of the bill. “Unity in purpose, in results, in alignment of programs and funding, and in belief in the dignity and potential of every child.” Another supporter of the is First Focus Campaign for Children. “Children are our country’s future eco-
Director of the Year Continued from page 4
restaurants to expand the menu and offer bento-style lunch boxes. “The El Monte City School District takes great pride in our Nutri-
Sudoku Solution for 11.28.18
Cross and Mental Health America of Greater Houston for hurricane relief following Hurricane Harvey. For the next eight weeks, Kaiser Permanente is offering crisis support groups to the community for those impacted by the Borderline shooting in Thousand Oaks, Calif., and impacted by the fire. The support group will teach skills for self-care to cope with trauma, amongst other skills to aid community members through the process of grief.
nomic, political, and social leaders, and each child deserves an equal opportunity to maximize their potential through access to quality education,” said Bruce Lesley, President, First Focus Campaign for Children. “ Chu wrapped up the statement by saying “That is why I introduced this bill, to promote community investment in our students. Professionals, universities, non-profits and more have so much to offer students and parents alike, but often the resources are not there to bring them together. This bill not only encourages those partnerships but provides the grant funding necessary to make them successful.” tion Services Department and its efforts to make sure our students are happy and healthy to ensure they are excelling in the classroom,” Superintendent Dr. Maribel Garcia said. “Congratulations to Dr. Lewis for this award and to the nutrition services staff for its amazing work.”
Crossword Solution for 11.28.18 For the pulse of the San Gabriel Valley, local news, special events, and school events check us out.
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Published on Dec 14, 2018
In this Issue- Introducing El Monte's Newly Elected; Another El Monte-Rosemead Adult School Success Story; City School District Nutrition Se...
Published on Dec 14, 2018
In this Issue- Introducing El Monte's Newly Elected; Another El Monte-Rosemead Adult School Success Story; City School District Nutrition Se...