Fimbres leads Raiders into second round See Sports Page 14
La Habra’s Independent Community Newspaper
www.lahabrajournal.com
No. 95467
November 19, 2015
LH council approves utility rate increase
A night of many crowns
By Jay Seidel La Habra Journal
Miguel Pola for the La Habra Journal
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
New royalty: Whittier Christian High School crowned Morgan Ryan Homecoming Queen and Noah Ho as King (photo on left). La Habra High School crowned Nicole Ramos Homecoming Queen (pictured with her father Ruben Ramos). Chris Brown was named King. For more on the courts, go to Page 12.
Preparing for an emergency
The city of La Habra is stressing that residents have a plan for future earthquakes. By Taylor Engle La Habra Journal
National Preparedness Month may have taken place in September, but being prepared in an emergency is something we should have down year-round. The city of La Habra dedicates time and effort to making sure its citizens are properly informed on emergency awareness and preparation. La Habra is located near two major earthquake faults (the Whittier and Puente Hills Faults), making it a location with a high likeliness of being hit by a catastrophic earthquake of 5.0 or greater within the next two and a half years. In fact, an October study from NASA showed that the likeliness of this happening is in the 99.9 percentile. Although the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) refutes this research, they still believe there is an 85% chance of this happening. According to La Habra’s Emergency Coordinator John Rees, when the 5.1 earthquake of March 2014 hit, only a portion of the fault moved. There is still a lower portion contain-
ing a lot of friction that is overdue to erupt. “Realistically, there is an 85 percent chance of an earthquake of 6.0 or greater hitting any area in Southern California at any given moment based on the number of faults that surround us,” said Rees. Rees’ job as Emergency Coordinator is to encourage the city to take the steps to
Suggested Contents for an Emergency Preparedness Kit 4 Water (for drinking and sanitation)- 1 gallon/person for three days 4 Food (three days supply) 4 Battery-powered or hand crank radio 4 Flashlight and extra batteries 4 First aid kit 4 Whistle 4 Dust mask (for each person) 4 Duct tape 4 Moist towelettes, garbage bags, plastic ties 4 Wrench and/or pliers 4 Can opener 4 Matches 4 Local maps
Additional items 4 Prescription medications/glasses 4 Infant formula & Diapers 4 Copies of important family documents 4 Pet food 4 Cash or travelers checks 4 Change of clothes 4 Sleeping bag 4 Fire extinguisher 4 Pen/Pencil & paper 4 Feminine supplies 4 Books/games/puzzles other activities Suggested contents of emergency packs by the Federal Emergency Management Agency
WHAT ’ S INSIDE THIS ISSUE
La Habra recognizes its veterans with annual ceremony
Turkey Trot raises money for Lowell district programs
FEATURES PAGE 8
FEATURES PAGES 9
Like us: LA HABRA JOURNAL POST OFFICE BOX 60 LA HABRA CA 90633-0044
prepare for any catastrophe. “We take advantage of the media to increase awareness,” said Rees. “Movies like San Andreas and basic news coverage of earthquakes and other disasters get people to pay attention. 95 percent of citizens are unprepared; if you’re unprepared, you’re part of the problem.” See EMERGENCY Page 4
The La Habra City Council approved rate increases for water, sewage and refuse that will go in to effect January 2016. The increases are to maintain balanced operating costs, capital improvements and maintaining a water fund reserve, according Elias Saykali, director of public works in the city’s staff report. Residents and businesses will see a 4.1 percent increase to their water rates in 2016 and an additional 4.3 percent starting in 2017. According to city estimates, if a resident’s current water bill is $59.96 it will increase by $2.48 in 2016. If they then pay $62.44, it will increase by $2.68 in 2017 for a total bill of $65.12. City Manager Jim Sadro explained that while the city is pumping more water, it is now operating three wells and the equipment needs regular maintenance. The reserve will help cover costs of line breaks and other emergencies. Mayor Pro Tem Jim Gomez voted against the increase. “I felt the 4 percent increase was a bit excessive,” Gomez said. “I believe a 2 percent increase would have been more appropriate.” The council unanimously voted to increase sewage rates by 7.4 percent, or $0.56, in 2016 and by 9.3 percent, or $0.76, in 2017. Saykali explained the reason for this increase is to fund the sewage capital improvement program. The council also approved an increase to refuse, or trash, services by 10.2 percent in 2016 and an additional 2 percent in 2017. Rates will go from $19.41 to $21.39 in 2016 and to $21.82 in 2017. Sadro explained that despite the new contract with CC&R as the city’s new trash hauling service, this increase was needed no matter who was doing the hauling. The revenue from the refuse rate increase will cover higher fuel expenses and landfill charges. Some of the money will go to projects at Vista Grande Park.
LHPD helps family after death of WCHS teen FEATURES PAGE 10
@LHJournal
LHJournal
Change Service Requested
Subscribe For Mail Delivery
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
The Boys & Girls Clubs of La Habra provides a free, nutritious snack to all youth ages 0- 18. Youth in the community are welcome to come to the club Monday-Friday between 3:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. to receive a free snack.
Saturday, November 21, 2015
You are invited to HBIC (Help for Brain Injured Children) 29th Annual GALA Affaire & Auction. Silent Auction and treats begin at 5 p.m. and hosted dinner begins at 7 p.m. Cost is $85 per person or $800 for a table of 10 at Westridge Golf Club, 1400 S. La Habra Hills Dr., La Habra. Cocktail attire and proceeds benefit HBIC. For more information or to purchase tickets call (562) 694-5655 or visit www.hbic.org. Free Electronics Recycling event at The Gary Center, 341 S. Hillcrest St., La Habra today from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Recycle your old computers, monitors, televisions, cell phones, ink & toner cartridges, printers, microwaves, cables & wires, laptops, all electronics. Your contribution benefits the Gary Center food pantry. Imperial Middle School will be holding its 3rd annual Quartermania, which will help raise funds for field trips, transportation, etc…For a $10 entrance fee you will get a bidding paddle, meal/drink/dessert ticket and a chance to bid on some great items for only quarters! Doors open at 2 p.m. at Imperial Middle School, 1450 Schoolwood Dr.
La Habra United Methodist Church, 631 N. Euclid. Everyone is welcome! For more information please call John Knox at (562) 691-1797 or email him at knoxbox@aol.com La Habra Heights Planning Commission Meeting begins at 6 p.m.
Thursday, November 26, 2015 Happy Thanksgiving!
Come one, come all to Calvary Chapel of La Habra’s complementary Thanksgiving feast. Today from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Calvary Chapel is located at 1370 W. Euclid St, just South of Imperial Hwy. For more information call (714) 446-6222.See ad Page 4.
Friday, November 27, 2015
La Habra Community Services will be having Black Friday, Kid Drop, Parent Shop today from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost is $20 per child, $15 per additional sibling (must register as same time). Register by phone (562) 383-4200 or in person at the Community Center. See ad on Page 13
Sunday, November 29, 2015
You won’t want to miss the Tamale Festival this year! Good food, vendors and music. Fun for the whole family. Today at the Community Center from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. See ad Page 13.
The La Habra High School Theater Guild presents Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast Musical” at the Plummer Auditorium on the corner of Chap- Unparelleled Real Estate Services... from our Family to You man and Lemon in Fullerton. Show the547-4489 community PamWant Kennedy (562) times are Nov. 21 & 22 at 1:30pm. Terry Pam Chrisgo to Terry Kennedy (562) 458-7948 For tickets and information to know about it? Chris Kennedy (562) 537-8701 LHHSGuild.com Tickets are $15 online and $20 at the door.
Have an event?
Hike the Powder Canyon Trail for an easy 1.7 mile loop in search of winter migrating birds. Meet up at 9 a.m. at Powder Canyon Trailhead, 2345 Fullerton Rd., La Puente. Dogs ok.
Monday, November 23, 2015
La Habra City Planning Commission Meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.
The grocery store chain Aldi is expanding to California and one store is set to built at 951 E. Imperial Highway between the Pepper Shaker and Howards. Aldi, is known in many Midwest states as a provider of quality goods at lower prices. The store prides itself on using cost-saving measures. According to its website, Aldi does “everything possible from our carts to checkout to energy-saving stores to give you incredibly high quality at impossibly low prices.” The Aldi product line includes a large selection of gluten-free products. The La Habra City Council approved the purchase of the city owned land to developer ICI Development Company at its meeting Monday. The store will open in the middle of 2016.
Lions joining with Sonora cheer to offer health fair at annual boutique
The Annual Sonora Cheer Boutique will be joined by the La Habra Host Lions this year to provide a community health fair along with the boutique. The event will be held inside at Sonora High School and is set for December 5, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The event will draw people from all over Southern California, and visitors will have an opportunity to shop and take part in various health screenings. The Lions are looking for more vendors in order to make the event one of the largest of the season. For information about being a vendor contact: Lion Marie Murillo at: mariem147@yahoo.com.
Or call: (562) 665-8954 Photo courtesy of Angel Gonzalez.
Quarter crazy: Residents took part in the La Habra Area Chamber of Commerce’s Quartermania extravaganza last month. People bid on various products and helped raise money high school programs.
Unparelleled Real Estate Services... from our Family to You
Chris
Aldi market coming to LH
news@lahabrajournal.com
Save your family history/memories by attending this free “Memoir Writing Workshop” . Workshops are held the 2nd and 4th Tuesday’s of each month beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the
Pam
Sue Thompson/La Habra Journal
Turning in candy: La Habra dentist, Dr. Douglass Daniels (right) stands with Buffie Starry in front of Halloween candy that families turned in as part of their annual event to send candy to service men and women deployed overseas. Daniels said they collected over 92 pounds of Halloween candy to give to the troops.
Let us know about your community event
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Terry
NEWS BRIEFS
Pam Kennedy (562) 547-4489 Terry Kennedy (562) 458-7948 Chris Kennedy (562) 537-8701
We wish you and your families a warm and Happy Thanksgiving! www.kennedypropertiesinc.com
OPINION
Did you know... By Nicole Panza La Habra Museum
In the 1950s the United States Air FoFootball plays a very important role in La Habra community life. Whether college or high school, La Habra residents have several local teams to support despite the fact that there is no professional football team in the area. La Habra residents in the past also turned to their local high school and college teams in the absence of local professional teams. During the years between World War I and World War II, La Habra high school students attended Fullerton Union High School since there was no high school built in La Habra yet. La Habra football players at Fullerton Union Hig h S cho ol competed against other high school athletes in the Sunset League. A rivalry even developed between Fullerton and Anaheim that was very similar to the cross town rivalry of Sonora and La Habra that exists today. The greatest parallel between the past and the present is found in the Thanksgiving Day game between Fullerton Junior College and its rival Santa Ana Junior College. While Fullerton Junior College did not have a championship winning football team, this did not stop La Habra residents in the t h i r t i e s and for t i e s from crowding into
The La Habra Journal is an independent, locally owned and run, community newspaper published bimonthly and serving the cities of La Habra and La Habra Heights. The Journal’s mission is to provide a vehicle of communication for the whole community and bring the community members together. The La Habra Journal welcomes views and comments from the community. All letters to the editor need to have a name for publication. Comments by the community are the views of the community and subject to verification. Authors will be contacted and notified prior to publication of their letters. The La Habra City Council meets the first and third Mondays of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Civic Center. The La Habra Heights City Council meets on the second Thursday of the month at City Hall at 6 p.m. The La Habra Journal is a proud member of the California Newspaper Publishers Association.
Editor: Jay Seidel Copy Editor Kyra Kirkwood Operations Manager: Jennifer Seidel Advertising Director Sue Thompson Founding Partners: Jane Williams Nancy Bishop Dotty Shively Reporters: Taylor Engle, Jackie Garcia, Kelsey Hutchison, Daniel Hernandez, Erik Markus, Genesis Miranda, Stephanie Stevenson Photographers: Nicole Anderson, Jenny Montes de Oca
Contact: news@lahabrajournal.com sports@lahabrajournal.com
P.O. Box 60 La Habra, CA 90633
(562) 665-8954 Advertising: (562) 665-9711
3
COMMENTARY
the stadium on Thanksgiving Day to cheer on Fullerton against their junior college rivals from Santa Ana. Even in the past La Habra residents were able to make football part of their Thanksgiving holiday. Just another interesting piece of history about where we live, work, and enjoy being a part of the La Habra community. Sources: Cramer, Esther R. La Habra: The Pass Through the Hills; Plummer, Louis E. A History of the Fullerton Union High School and Fullerton Junior College, 1893-1943; and Esther Cramer’s Archives courtesy of the La Habra Historical Museum.
Be sure to check us out online and through social media.
It’s a time for us to be truly thankful
It’s November and that means it’s a month of being thankful. Obviously, we become thankful around the Thanksgiving holiday. But I attended the annual La Habra Veterans Day Ceremony and I saw the outpouring of thankfulness. I was thankful for all those who served and especially those from La Habra and La Habra Heights. That made me think a little more about thankfulness. There are a number of things to be thankful for. Yes, individual health and family are mainstays of things to be thankful for, but there are many others. And when I mean thankful, I’m not talking about the type of thankful in those chain posts on Facebook that have you list things you are thankful for, so you can pass it on to other friends. I mean really thankful; the kind of thankful that you feel inside. There are some things to be thankful for in our community. The many nonprofits and churches extend their efforts to help others in the community. Examples of these are Calvary Chapel’s Thanksgiving dinner for those in need, the Lions Santa Cause, and countless other charitable activities of these organizations in the community. Their efforts are something to be thankful for. There is the fact that our city is growing and not stagnating. Say what you want about the multiple housing developments going on, or that there’s no Trader Joes here, but the fact that residents are coming and retailers are transforming some of the empty commercial lots that we have had for a while in the city is something to be thankful for. Our two public high schools
www.lahabrajournal.com Facebook: LaHabraJournal Twitter: @LHJournal @SportsLHJ YouTube: La Habra Journal Check out back issues at: issuu.com/LaHabraJournal
LIVING TRUSTS 899 $799
Single
L
A I C
E P S
have reached the second round of CIF playoffs. (Whittier Christian, I’m confident that you’ll be back in there next year.) That is something to be thankful for. There is an overall positive feeling when you think about our community. That feeling, this time of year, is something to enjoy. The giving and sharing is something that helps makes this community live up to is motto of a caring community. It spills over to the youth in our community. Seeing the 40+ teens of the La Habra Youth Committee volunteering their time and energy to the various worthy efforts in the city. The LHPD Police explorers, who can be seen giving their time and helping with community events. There are the Leos, from the Lions Club who support the many Lions activities including their community cleanup project. There’s the upcoming food drive that Sonora High School does each year. From young to old, from organization to individual effort, there are a number of things that happen in our community that show the good in humanity during a time where the world seems crazy and that we should all focus kindness. They are all something to be thankful for. At this time I would ask that we all take a moment and be thankful for our health and our families, but also for being in a caring community. See if you get that feeling inside. Like one person commented on the post about our Veterans Day coverage, “I love our little town!”
—The Editor
Any Garment
Dry Cleaned & Pressed No suede, leather, down, or formal wear
$2.00
pre-paid, no limit
Riviera Cleaners 631 E. Whittier Blvd. La Habra (between Harbor and Euclid) 562 690 4091 Hours: 7-7 M-F 8-5 Saturday Same day service available on request
Proudly Serving the Community Since 1984! Offer Expires: December 5, 2015
949 $849
Married
Call for FREE brochure!
Probate KAREN A. STEVENSON Attorney at Law
(562) 947-8997 La Mirada
“A Commitment to Excellence Since 1959” H l Sales l Residential Es abl pa a l Refinance l Commercial ño l l Short Sales l Vacant Land l Notary Public 410 W. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 265-3127 k Fax: (562) 265-3132 Independently owned and operated under Dept. of Corporations Lic #9630201
Debbie Dudley
Certified Senior Escrow Officer Manager/Owner debbie@mercuryescrow.com
4
EMERGENCY: Residents are encouraged to have a plan in place in case of natural disaster From Page 1
La Habra’s goal is to make sure every citizen is prepared to survive for seven days should there be no electricity, water, gas, and sanitation. Citizens should have communication plans, meeting plans, and social media plans to be able to connect with one another and family members out of state should something happen. Having insurance is another form of preparation, as a natural disaster can be a life-changing event. Disasters, particularly earthquakes, can have snowballing forms of damage that can leave families and businesses in debt if they are not properly insured. La Habra reaches out to the community in multiple ways regarding emergency preparedness. In addition to the emergency webpage on the city’s website, the city hosts semi-annual preparedness meetings at the Community Center, presentations at city fairs and events, emergency lectures for service clubs, PTAs, churches, and businesses, semi-annual CERT Training Programs, and Citizens’ Police Academy. “The semi-annual preparedness meetings are well attended,” said Rees. “We had our first meeting after the March 2014 earthquake and took off from there; approximately 250-300 people attend.” In addition to the services provided for the city, Rees attends many county-wide and statewide preparedness meetings to discuss plans for preparation and rebuild-
ing. He also trains city workers for emergency duties and coordinates with local school districts for emergency plans. As for an emergency checklist, there is no “one size fits all.” The best way for citizens to plan is to assess your personal situation. Some questions to ask would be: What is the worst emergency that could occur where I live? What do I need to be prepared for this “worst” situation? What are my post-emergency options? The first step is to visit www. myhazards.calema.ca.gov. This website allows you to enter your home address and figure out what disaster you should be prepared for. From here, you can visit: readyoc. org, ready.gov/prepare, or daretoprepare.org to further assess your situation. “As long as you are prepared for the worst possible situation, you’ll be okay in any disaster,” said Rees. “Chances are if you’re ready for the fire or the earthquake, you’re also ready for the minor power outage.”
For more emergency information check out: www.ready.gov bepreparedcalifornia.ca.gov readyoc.org emergency.cdc.gov redcross.org/prepare
OBITUARY
LOCAL NEWS LYNETTE COX 1944 - 2015
Dedicated family woman and hospital worker Born in Fort Worth Texas, Lynette Cox relocated to La Habra where she was a resident for over 30 years. She worked many years at Friendly Hills Hospital in La Habra as a PBX operator before its closing. She then transferred to St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton. Lynette was diagnosed in 2013 with Melanoma Cancer, and Uterine Cancer. Both had already metastasized. She courageously fought both cancers for 2 1/2 years before her passing on October 31 with her family by her side. She is preceded by her mother Earline Martin and father Leslie McCall. Lynette is survived by her five children, David Alan Green, Charles Bill Cox, Aleisha Michelle Martinez, Vicki Lynn Waggoner, and Amy Cox. She is also survived by 17 grand-
LYNETTE COX children. Her final resting place is Memory Gardens in Brea, Calif.
Want more of the Journal? Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter. Also, don’t forget to check out our Youtube channel!
Santa and his Elf are coming to the Fullerton Airport! December 13th, 2015
He will be arriving by helicopter at 11:30 a.m. And he will be staying until 1:00 p.m. He will have lots of goodies for the kids. This is the second Sunday of the month which is also Classic Aircraft display day. Please come and enjoy the day. We have hamburgers, hot dogs and other good things to eat along with airplane rides and also helicopter rides in Santa’s helicopter.
Window Tinting Associates Serving La Habra for over 29 years
Auto • Home • Office
SAND • ROCK BRICK • BLOCK
2253 W. Whittier Blvd • La Habra
LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES
562-694-0504 800-953-TINT
1000 S. CYPRESS, La Habra
(562) 697-9702 • (714) 526-4373
COMMUNITY RELIGIOUS SERVICES Bethany Romanian Baptist Church 1431 W. La Habra Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 690-3844 Beth Shalom 14564 Hawes Street, Whittier, CA 90604 562-941-8744 Erev Shabbat Services every Friday at 7:30 pm Shabbat Services every Saturday at 9:45. Calvary Chapel 1370 South Euclid Street La Habra (714) 446-6222 Services: Sunday 9 a.m., & 11 a.m. Wednesday 7 p.m. www.cclhabra.org Calvary Chapel Into the Light 217 North Walnut Street La Habra (562) 690-3000 Services: Sunday (English) 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m. (Spanish) 10:30 a.m. Casa de Oracion 150 E. 1st Ave. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 278-4282 Services: Thursday 7 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m., 6 p.m. Church of Christ 1621 West Lambert Road La Habra (562) 697-4115 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m., 6 p.m. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 2351 E La Habra Blvd. La Habra (562) 691-1212 Community Bible Church 401 E. 1st Ave. La Habra (562) 691-2798 Service: Sunday 11 a.m. Crossroads Community Church 222 N. Euclid La Habra (562) 691-6674 Service: Sunday 10 a.m. Emanuel Lutheran Church 150 N. Palm Street La Habra (562) 691-0656 Service: Sunday 9 & 10:30 a.m. Family Bible Church 123 E. 2nd Ave. La Habra (562) 694-9900 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m., Tuesday 6:30 p.m., Friday 6:30 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m. Facebook: Family Bible Church of La Habra Green Hills Baptist 2200 West Imperial Hwy. La Habra (562) 943-7291 Services: Sunday (English) 8, 9:30 & 11 a.m. (Spanish) 9:30 a.m. (Korean) 11 a.m. Heights Worship Center International Ministries 2000 West Road La Habra Heights (626) 893-9963 Service: Sunday 8:30-10 a.m. Friday: 7 p.m. Youth worship & Adult Connection Rev. N. Jaren Lapasaran, Jr. - Sr. pastor www.hwcim.org Hillcrest Congregational Church UCC 2000 West Road La Habra Heights, CA 90631 www.hillcrest-church.org Rev. Paul Clay, Senior Pastor Worship service: Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Home of Hillcrest Country Day School Church office - (562) 947-3755 School office – (562) 533-2354
Inglesia Bautista 700 W. La Habra Blvd. La Habra (562) 691-8162 Services: Sunday 11 a.m. & 6 p.m. Bible Sudy, prayer service Wed. 7 p.m. Bilingual services Korean Gospel Presbyterian Church 1751 West La Habra Boulevard La Habra (562) 694-6214 Services: Sunday 9 a.m., 11 a.m. La Habra Christian Church 400 Bella Vista Drive La Habra Heights (562) 691-0514 Services: Sunday 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. La Habra Foursquare Mission 324 E. 1st Ave. La Habra (562) 694-2224 Services: Sunday 9 a.m., 11:15 a.m. La Habra Hills Presbyterian 951 N. Idaho Street La Habra (562) 691-3296 Service: Sunday 10 a.m. La Habra United Methodist 631 N. Euclid St. La Habra (562) 691-1797 Service: Sunday 10:30 a.m. Lighthouse Landmark Missionary Baptist Church 550 N. Euclid St. La Habra (562) 697-1364 Service: Sunday 10:45 a.m. Lutheran Church of the Master 1601 West La Habra Blvd. La Habra (562) 697-2884 Service Sunday 9 a.m. Morningstar Christian Chapel 16241 Leffingwell Road Whittier, CA 90603 (562) 943-0297 Service: Sunday 8:30, 9:45, 11:30 a.m. Sunday Evening 7:00 p.m. Wednesday Evening 7:00 p.m. Young Adults (18-25): Friday 7:00 p.m. Jack Abeelen Senior Pastor www.morningstarcc.org Mission Presbyterian Church 1901 E. Lambert Rd. Suite 105 La Habra (714) 448-3305 Services: Sunday 10:30 a.m., Wednesday 7 p.m.. mid-week study Na Sung 1620 Fullerton Road La Habra Heights (562) 690-7979 Services: Sunday 8 a.m., 11 a.m. New Life Church of La Habra 740 E. Lambert Rd. Unit E La Habra (562) 694-5534 newlifechurchlahabra.com Services: Sunday 10 a.m., 6 p.m.; Our Lady of Guadalupe 900 West La Habra Boulevard La Habra (562) 691-0533 www.olglahabra.org Call or visit for service information Potter’s Christian Fellowship 740 East Lambert Road La Habra (562) 690-7020 Service: Sunday 10 a.m. Redemption Hill Church Sonora High School 401 S. Palm St. La Habra, CA (562) 947-4791 Service: Sunday 10 a.m. www.rhchurches.com
INSPIRATIONAL CORNER
5
By Dennis Laherty, the Co-Pastor of Emanuel Lutheran Church, La Habra
What’s new that can be said about Thanksgiving? Only that we have come through another year with many new things for which to be thankful. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays of the year that is perfectly described by its name. It’s an action word. It encourages each of us to take action and offer thanks. How we offer thanks and to whom is certainly up to the individual to decide. There may be a person or people for whom we might want to offer special thanks. We might follow a higher power or Almighty God and choose to offer thanks to our Deity. Thanksgiving has been celebrated in this country now for over 150 years. It’s initiation came through a proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln. His proclamation includes numerous things for which to be thankful. It’s worth noting that the proclamation was issued in the midst of the Civil War. One can conclude that giving thanks is more of an attitude than any other factor in a person’s life. In the proclamation, Lincoln mentions God in some form no less than seven times. Considering when Lincoln wrote the proclamation and to whom he offers thanks, it would seem that giving thanks specifically to God has been an acceptable part of our nation’s fiber for many years. His proclamation still stands. It has not been altered or rescinded. Mutual respect among all citizens of this nation is a worthy goal. May the thanks given this year by believers and non-believers speak of the attitude we can all share for the good we have in our lives. Rehoboth Reformed Church 501 South Idaho Street #120 La Habra (626) 820-9390 Service: Sunday 10 a.m.
Vineyard North Orange County 615 S. Palm St La Habra (562) 697-4600 Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.
St. Paul Lutheran Church 111 W. Las Palmas Drive Fullerton, CA 92835 714-879-8290 Services: Sunday Liturgical 8.a.m. and 11 a.m. Praise: 9:30 a.m.
The Warehouse Foursquare Church 16200 E. Amber Valley Dr. Whittier (562) 690-5109 Services: Sunday 9 a.m., 11 a.m.
l
We are thankful for — November, 2015
A Supportive Community
Voter approval of the General Obligation bond — Measure ‘O’ in 2012 — showed the public’s confidence in the performance, leadership, and vision of their public schools. With support of Measure ‘O’, the district is able to continue to improve our schools and implement the vision of providing students with 21st Century Classrooms, outfitted with state of the art technology.
21st Century Classrooms
Currently modernization plans for Walnut School site improvements and modernization are in the development process. However, in Summer 2015 a new lunch area was installed and a pilot 21st Century classroom was created. It is anticipated that the full implementation of the Phase II modernization of Walnut School will begin in Summer 2016.
Measure ‘O’, a $31 million general obligation bond authorization, supports projects outlined in the District’s Facilities Improvement Plan, and is designed to be completed in four phases. Each phase includes modernization projects, continuous support and refresh of the District’s technology program, as well as deferred maintenance projects throughout the District. Washington Middle School
improvements to provide greater flexibility to support innovative 21st Century learning. Electronic marquee signs were installed at both sites. At Imperial Middle School two courtyards were improved for safety and enhanced outdoor activity space. Measure ‘O’ also assisted in providing 1:1 iPads for all students in grades 6-8 and technology improvements throughout the District.
Walnut ‘pilot’ classroom
Modernization projects in Phase I, completed in Fall 2015, focused on middle school classrooms and exteriors at both Imperial and Washington Middle Schools. Select classrooms at both sites were upgraded with extensive interior
Phase II modernization projects were originally planned to begin in 2017 and focus on Las Positas, Sierra Vista, and Walnut Schools. However, as a result of faster than expected growth in local assessed value, the District was able to accelerate Phase II bond sales to Spring 2015. A review of the 3-5 schools determined that Walnut School presented the greatest immediate need for facilities improvement. Facility improvements at Las Positas and Sierra Vista will be completed at a later date as originally planned.
Imperial Middle School
Measure ‘O’ Phases III and IV will address modernization projects at the K-2 schools and are currently scheduled to begin in 2021. More specific information and detailed implementation plans can be found on the district website under Measure ‘O’.
Our Outstanding Teachers
Our 21st Century Students
Teachers make a difference in the lives of their students. Great schools begin with great teachers who are committed to their work and are focused on providing the best possible education for all students. Each year we have the opportunity to select one teacher who exemplifies these characteristics to represent their peers. Dana Riggs, La Habra City School District Teacher of the Year 2016, was honored on November 10th at the Orange County Teacher of the Year dinner at the Disneyland Hotel. Dana, the District’s 3-5 Academic Coach for Literacy, goes above and beyond to make a difference for her students.
As educators we have the opportunity on a daily basis to make a difference in the lives of our students. We have the responsibility to provide them with an educational program that will prepare them for a future filled with unlimited promise and opportunity.
County Superintendent Al Mijares with Dana Riggs — Orange County Teacher of the Year
Ladera Palma K-2 21st Century Classroom
Prior to being selected as a Coach, Dana taught at Sierra Vista school. A graduate of the La Habra City School District, Dana represents all the qualities of an outstanding teacher - she is passionate about providing all students a rigorous and engaging learning environment. A special thank you to Dana and all our teachers for their dedication and commitment to their students.
The Common Core State Standards represent more rigorous requirements of what each child should be able to know and do to be college and career ready. The standards integrate higher order thinking skills and require students to apply their knowledge and skills in real world contexts. In the La Habra City School District we have a rigorous instructional program that incorporates research based strategies to meet our students individualized needs. We encourage our students to embrace a growth mindset and provide a learning environment to support their growth. We are fulfilling the promise to prepare our students to be college and career ready by providing an innovative, engaging, educational program.
Our Winter Holiday Schedule
Thanksgiving Recess .................................................................November 23rd – 27th Winter Recess ................................................................ December 21st – January 1st Students Return from Winter Recess ........................................ January 4th (Monday)
Keeping you informed about your public schools Office of Superintendent Susan Belenardo
500 North Walnut Street
La Habra, CA 90631
(562) 690–2305
www.lahabraschools.org
LOCAL NEWS
Teens serve menudo breakfast for charity
By Naomi Osuna La Habra Journal
The Boys and Girls Club hosted the fifth annual menudo breakfast fundraiser Saturday morning. The money was being raised for the Keystone Club, which is a leadership development club that consists of La Habra teens working to make a difference for themselves and the community. The festive event had a distinct Hispanic theme. Spanish music played in the background and the gymnasium was decorated with vibrant colors. The teens from the club were working in the kitchen and serving people as they sat for a menudo breakfast. Coordinator Crystal Cisneros has been involved with this event for three years. She explained that each year they fundraise to cover expenses to attend conferences. According to Cisneros, Keystone is a teen leader-
ship program with conferences taking place in different locations across the country. “We try to raise money for that, as well as to do field trips,” Cisneros said. “We do a lot of community service to help out our community. So we need to rent out vans, just to go out in the community and help out, try to make a difference, help these kids learn about making a difference.” The funds that are raised go to the La Habra Keystone Achievers. Cisneros has approximately 20 teens volunteering to help with community service, academic success, teen outreach and career preparation, including college trips. “They start making an impact,” Cisneros said. “It’s nice for the community to see teens out there, we don’t get that a lot from teens. Most of the time when they think teens they think, ‘Oh no trouble’, so it’s nice to have teens that are actually trying to
make an impact.” The Keystone Club has a very strong bond with local restaurant, Señor Campos Cisneros explained. “We have a really strong collaboration with them. They’re the ones that have their name on our teen center,” she said. “They’re the ones that opened up our teen center, so they always donate every year…they make our menudo for us and we sell it and they give it to us for a really low price. So it worked out perfect.” Ismenen Rodriguez, president of the Keystone Club, has been volunteering for Keystone for two years now. She joined simply to be involved with a club that benefitted the community and ended up falling in love with it. She added that planning this fundraising event is a lot of work, but she enjoys it. “We take so much time to plan everything out and get everything
7
ready,” Rodriguez said.” In the morning it’s super stressful because we come here so early, and we get everything ready and then people keep coming in, like a rush hour.” Rodriguez explained that it’s a relief knowing that the community is out there helping them to achieve their goals. “When everything’s done and we see the outcome, and the money that we actually made for the conference, so that we get to go, it’s really relaxing and relieving.” Rodriguez added that there is something special about the menudo breakfast event. “I feel like it brings people together,” she said of the annual event. “It gives people an opportunity to actually eat together, because a lot of people don’t do that as often. We make a mini restaurant so they can come.”
Rancho Starbuck sells mattresses for music dept By Yilean Morales La Habra Journal
Rancho Starbuck Intermediate School held its first ever Mattress Fundraiser last Saturday, in hopes of raising funds to benefit their young musicians. All proceeds from the fundraiser were donated to help the music program grow and provide students with the equipment they need to continue to improve their talents. Music Program Director Jeremy Fletcher was enthusiastic as he organized this event in hopes of giving parents and families of his students
a fun and creative way to fundraise. “We are not going to the parents and asking for money or donations, we are inviting them to come out and shop for something they might be in the market for, and also to invite people who may need help purchasing a mattress, which can sometimes be difficult,” Fletcher said. The music program is made up of approximately 400 students throughout the district, and according to Fletcher, it is continuously growing. New instruments and new equipment are necessary to maintain this
Call 714-871-0632 THANKSGIVING SALE FALL SPECIALS
Green Coffee Bean, Raspberry Ketone and Garcinia Cambogia now available. Full selection of braces for all sports related injuries
Flu Shots Available
program and allow for its progress, Fletcher explained. Promotion for these events ranges from flyers to social media, all in hopes of inspiring members of the community to come out and help their local schools. The company sponsoring the event, Custom Fundraising Solutions, has dedicated their services to helping kids around the country raise funds for their school programs. The company, which was established in 2005, prides itself on selling quality mattresses all for the benefit of the organizations they support, which include high schools, middle
schools, elementary schools, and churches. “Mattresses are unique because second to buying a home or a car, it’s the most important thing you have to buy” says CFS owner Chris Fujii, who covers Riverside county, San Bernardino county, and parts of Los Angeles and Orange County. CFS has worked with approximately 75 different schools in the area and has up to 50 locations nationally; all working to improve the education of kids around their communities and help them continue to develop skills in extra curricular activities.
8
FEATURES
LH Celebrates Veterans
By Yilean Morales La Habra Journal
La Habra celebrated their Veterans by honoring them at its annual Veterans Day event held at the Community Center. Veterans and their families were invited to honor and celebrate the lives of those who have served our country and those who continue to serve bravely. The event included special presentations from members of our Armed Forces and our community, and beautiful performances from the Gaslight Chorus, whose renditions of songs such as the “Armed Forces Medley” and “America the Beautiful” brought tears to the eyes of the audience. Veterans Day marks a day in our history where we honor the brave men and women who form part of our Nation’s Armed Forces, and all those who attended the event did so with respect and great pride. This years Veterans Day event was a tribute to women in war and WWII veterans. The integration of women in the military has grown tremendously throughout our history. Through perseverance, women have made their way in the Armed Forces and continue to do so. Keynote Speaker, Kyndra Rotunda, Professor of Military and International Law and Executive Director of the Military and Veterans Law Institute, gave a moving presentation about her service and the importance of women in the military. “We look today at all the women
serving, we have female flight crews, female F18 fighter pilots, we have women winning the silver star medal for honor and valor in combat, and we really have come such a long way” rejoices Rotunda. The La Habra Women’s Club presented the Defenders of Freedom Plaque, supporting this year’s focus on women. The plaque, which displays Marie Keller, was created in honor of all the women in service and as a reminder to all members of the community of the strides that women have taken in our Armed Forces throughout the years. La Habra Woman’s Club President, Wilma Santana gave a moving speech in which she presented the plaque. “We wanted to create something that represented all the women who have served, and after a year of planning, we are so happy with the result” Says Santana joyfully. The event also included the presentation of the story of the four chaplains, a moving presentation that brought attention to the attack of the SS Dorchester during World War II. This year’s ceremony honored the four chaplains, Reverend George Fox, Rabbi Alexander Goode, Reverend Clark Poling, and Father John Washington, who calmed men aboard the ship and sacrificed their lives selflessly. All in all, the event turned out to be a success. For veterans, it was a day of remembrance and as old buddies greeted one another while Los Angeles County Firefighter Humberto Agurcia sang his beauti-
‘And I’ll gladly stand up’: Los Angeles County Firefighter Humberto Agurcia sings a moving rendition of “God Bless the USA” at the annual Veteran’s Day ceremony. He opened last Wednesday’s event with the National Anthem.
ful interpretation of “God Bless the U.S.A”, it was clear that their service to this great nation touched their lives forever and continues to impact the lives of family members and their community, which celebrates them and cherishes them.
Photos by Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
La Habra Councilman Tom Beamish with La Habra Women’s Club President Wilma Santana stand with the plaque presented to the city honoring La Habra’s women veterans.
Emotional recognition: (From top left): Tana Mobley from American Legion Post 267 wipes away a tear as she reads a portion of the story of the Four Chaplains during Wolrd War II. Army veteran Bill Peppard shares more of the story of the Four Chaplains, LHPD Detective Jason Forgash serves as Master of Ceremony for the annual Veterans Day ceremony. Veterans on hand showed support for each other during last Wednesday’s annual Veteran’s Day event at the La Habra Community Center.
Custom Care for Ladies, Gentleman & Youth l Precision
Haircutting l Permanent Waving l Color & Highlights l Corrective Techniques l Manicures l Pedicures l Gel Nails l Acrylic Nails l YUKO Straightening & Smoothing treatments l Make-up SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! Like us on Facebook!
820 E. Whittier Boulevard in El Cholo Plaza La Habra, California 90631 Phone (562) 694-6581 www.primarilyhair.com
9
FEATURES
Runners take part in annual Turkey Trot to help Lowell District programs
By Kelsey Hutchison La Habra Journal
A large crowd turned out at the Rancho Starbuck Intermediate School to participate in the 9th Annual 5K Family Turkey Trot and Wellness Fair last Saturday in support of efforts to fund intramural sports and technology grants for local seventh and eighth graders. Over 233 people turned out to run and support these fundraising efforts sponsored by the Lowell Joint School District Foundation. “This event helps bring back programs that the state has cut, like flag football, and everyone is absolutely thrilled about it,” said Dr. Bonnie Bell, Superintendent at LJSD. Each participant received an
Family fun: Rancho Starbuck PE teacher and Athletic Director Ryan Anderson with daughter Elizabeth, son Kyle and his wife Carlee.
event t-shirt and the top three winners from each age group received a medal. The overall male and female finishers also received a pair of shoes donated by the Snail Place Running Store. “ This year we expanded and held a craft and wellness fair to showcase local businesses as well as hand-crafted items,” said Marty Tourville, Foundation president for the last four years. The fair drew additional interest from La Habrans and other community neighbors who wanted to help with fundraising efforts for these school programs. Check-in for the race started at 6:30 a.m. Although it was a decidedly chilly morning, the race still attracted serious runners, local sports teams, little kids, and even mothers pushing strollers and dogs. Brian Valencia, UC-Irvine sophomore, has raced in the Turkey Trot 5K for the last four years with three first place wins, including today. “I run 5-7 miles a day, and although the 5K distance is shorter, the pace is quicker,” Valencia said of the race. Valencia was also happy to show his support for these local programs and grants. “I’m not in high school anymore,” he said, “but it gives me an opportunity to race again in the community.” He plans to show his support again and race for his fourth medal
Photos by Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
And they’re off: Participants run in the 9th annual Turkey Trot fundraiser last Saturday by Rancho Starbuck Intermediate School raising money to help fund student programs in the Lowell Joint School District.
next year. However, Bell and Tourville explained that the real winners continue to be the students who benefit from the community’s ongoing efforts to support programs that have fallen victim to budget cuts. “This year’s event would not have been possible without the assistance of Al Perez and the California Highway Patrol that sent 10-12 officers to ensure the safety of event-goers and runners during the race,” Bell added. Organizers are already starting to plan next year’s race.
Team effort: La Habra High School Golf Coach Cody Verdugo (center) brought members of the Highlander golf team to participate in the annual 5K Turkey Trot race last Saturday.
Make Healthy Your Choice.
OPEN ENROLLMENT OCT. 15 - DEC. 7
Choose a PIH Health Doctor Today.
Feeling good begins with choosing well. When you know your health is in the best possible hands, you’ll have peace of mind. Choosing is easy with PIH Health. Start by selecting a PIH Health physician. Then select a health plan that is right for you, one that offers access to the leading hospitals in your area, PIH Health Hospitals – Downey and Whittier. PIH Health offers an entire network of skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals to serve you. Comprehensive care begins with choosing a PIH Health doctor. PIH Health can help you make the best choice. Call 888.365.4450 or visit PIHHealth.org/Seniors
FEATURES
10
LHPD honors teen who died after brain surgery
By Jaimee Lynn Fletcher Behind The Badge
Luis Guerrero wanted to wear a badge. The 17-year-old knew to become an officer that meant working hard in school and staying active in his community. For Guerrero, it also meant having brain surgery. His plans were tragically cut short after a seven-month battle to recover from the surgery expected to help him realize his dream. Guerrero died last Sunday night. At age 11, he was diagnosed with a congenital brain condition that causes seizures. The teen could go months without any seizures, then be plagued with several in a day, landing him in the hospital, said his sister Nancy Dominguez, 24. Guerrero didn’t let it interfere with his life, though. If a seizure struck in the morning, as they often did, he insisted on attending school, especially if he had an exam that day. He stayed active in his church — always volunteering to lead youth groups, coach children on their lines for the Christmas program and play soccer with orphans in Mexico. “He was just a joyful person who loved serving others,” Dominguez said. As a child, Guerrero wanted to be a neurosurgeon to fix problems of the brain like the kind he had. He was determined to find a way to stop the seizures he so often endured.
But after befriending a security guard at Whittier Christian, he set his heart on a new career path — becoming a law enforcement officer. “I think that relationship really changed him,” Dominguez said. “He had such a heart for people, especially those who are in need in some way or victims of injustice.” Guerrero told his family he wanted to be an officer, but specifically, he wanted to join La Habra Police Department. He decided he would apply for the department’s Explorer program with the hope it would prepare him for one day being a sworn officer. His seizure disorder threatened his goal, along with other simple wants of a typical teenager. Guerrero wanted to get his license and be able to hang out with friends without his mother and two sisters worrying or checking up on him. He wanted his independence and doctors said they might be able to give it to him. Doctors found a small mass on Guerrero’s brain and deduced the growth may be the cause of his seizures. If they removed it, there was a chance Guerrero could be seizure-free. “He was really excited about having surgery,” Dominguez said. “There was no hesitation, no nervousness or fear. “He was just hoping for a normal life. I think he just felt the brain condition was a burden.” Guerrero under went surger y on March 26 and, while doctors removed the mass, an artery tore
eer Opportunites for licensed Associates.
MARTPLAN’s
gotcha Covered! Open enrollment is from 11-1-15 to 1-31-16
For a quote we need the following:
-Name(s) -Date(s) of birth -Zip Code (county if split county) -Annual Income(combined of all household members on tax return)
Courtesy Behind the Badge
Whittier Christian senior Luis Guerrero lost his battle with a congenital brain condition last week. Guerrero wanted to become a La Habra Police officer . The LHPD have worked to help Guerrero’s family.
causing massive brain bleeding, his sister said. The 17-year-old later suffered a stroke while in recovery. Guerrero was in an induced coma for two months because doctors wanted as little brain activity as possible to encourage healing, Dominguez said. When he woke, things seemed better, his sister said. Guerrero was aware and could even move some of his extremities. Then, just last month, as doctors were removing a cranial drain that was inserted to get rid of excess fluid, the part of the brain responsible for speech and movement was damaged. Guerrero couldn’t speak or respond to any stimulus, Dominguez said. “That changed everything,” she said. When Guerrero’s story made its way back to the La Habra Police Department, members of the department immediately wanted to help. About two weeks ago, several civilian and sworn employees visited Guerrero and his family in the hospital. The La Habra Police Association presented a card with well wishes and a gift card to Target. Employees at the La Habra Police Department then launched a department-wide fundraiser to collect do-
nations for Guerrero and his family. Grow a Beard, Change Lives encourages LHPD employees to make a donation and grow a beard in the month of November. Female employees who donate will get to participate in “Jeans Friday” and wear denim on the last day of their work week. LHPD will continue their plan to raise money for the teen’s family in memory of Guerrero. “When we visited him, we were deeply impacted by Luis’ story and touched by his courageous spirit,” said Wendy Guandique, LHPD Secretary to the Chief. “We are deeply saddened by the news.” Guandique said La Habra PD is encouraging the community to give through Crowd Rise and they are also challenging city employees and other Orange County police associations to participate. The campaign Heroes for a Warrior, posted on the department’s Facebook page, has raised nearly $3,000 so far. “We are so grateful,” Dominguez said of LHPD’s efforts. “We never even thought about doing anything like this so it has been really amazing and a blessing to see people taking part.” To donate visit: https://www.crowdrise.com/heroesforawarriorthe/ fundraiser/wendyguandique
Must apply prior to 12-15-15 to get a 1-1-16 effective date 12-16-15 to 1-15-16, the effective date will be 2-1-16 1-16-16 to 1-31-16, the effective date will be 3-1-16
MARTPLAN
INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. AUTO | HOME | BUSINESS | LIFE Martplan Insurance Agency, Inc.
Christy Wyant
Operations Manager Covered CA Specialist CA Lic # 0B90055 cwyant@martplaninsurance.com
Address: 1001 W Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 Phone: 562.691.9414 Fax: 562.691.4353 CA Lic: OF10658
www.MARTPLANINS.com
Owner Operated Lic # 678228
Kevin Swanson Cell: 714-401-0963
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
11
NEIGHBORHOOD
The only directory exclusively listing La Habra area businesses
ACCOUNTING/BOOKKEEPING Tax Help Team - CPA, EAs 1201 S. Beach Blvd. Suite 106 La Habra, CA 90631 (x Imperial) (562) 943-1456 “For You & Your Small Business” Tax Debt Relief Expert ACUPUNCTURE Sunny’s Bohwa Acupuncture 143 S. Beach Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 756-8757 www.sunnysacupuncture.com “Best care acupuncture”
ATTORNEYS CRIMINAL LAW Brian McDonnell The McDonnell Law Firm 418 E. La Habra Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 694-3827 (562) 694-4280 Fax www.lahabracriminalattorneys.com AUTO ACCIDENT INJURY Law Offices Clinton W. Holland, Inc. Derek Holland 418 E. La Habra Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 694-3821 (562) 691-5569 Fax www.lawcwh.com BANKS Pacific Mercantile Bank 1530 W. Whittier Blvd. #B La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 690-7117 www.pmbank.com Dawn F. Stille DENTISTS Ezaki Dentistry Ramsey Ezaki, DDS 16336 Whittier Blvd #101 Whittier, CA 90603 (562) 947-9958 www.ezakidentistry.com Smooth Dental Group 1521 W. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 694-4800 Dr. Elizabeth Tran www.smoothdentalgroup.com ESCROW COMPANIES v Mercury Escrow 410 W. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 265-3127 Debbie Dudley debbie@mercuryescrow.com
FAMILY MEDICAL SERVICES Friends of Family Health Center Primary care services for all OB/ GYN Services, Family Planning & Pediatric Dentistry 501 S. Idaho Street La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 690-0400 “Like Us” on Facebook! GERMAN DELICATESSEN v Continental Delicatessen 1510 W. Imperial Hwy. Ste. CD La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 697-0333 Party Platters, Sandwiches, Domestic and Imported Foods HANDYMAN v Yes We Can Handyman A Licensed General Contractor (562) 691-0022 joe@yeswecanhandyman.com Lic #903683 HAIR SALON v Primarily Hair 820 E. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 694-6581 www.primarilyhair.com Find us on Facebook MEDICARE HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS Jerry Perisho 7771 Bacon Road Whittier, CA 90602 (562) 547-6569 jerryperisho@gmail.com www.calljerry4info.com CA License #0I04403
MORTGAGE COMPANIES Alpine Mortgage Planning 250 Commerce Suite 100 Irvine, CA 92602 (562) 572-4648 cell Fernando Hernandez FHernandez@alpinemc.com www.Alpinemc.com Sr. Mortgage Advisor, MLO 258327 PEST CONTROL Lady Bugs Environmental 481 E. Whittier Blvd., Suite A La Habra, CA 90631 (855) 452-3928 Termites, Insects, Rodents, Bird Control & Bee Emergency
TRIMMING
STUMP GRINDING PALMS
INSURED
COMMERCIAL
GREG WILLIAMS (562) 692-8677 FAX: (562) 698-4085 WTREEDUDE@AOL.COM
PRINTING Guardian Printing 1050 E. Whittier Blvd. Suite 100 La Habra, CA 90631 (888) 270-0984 (884) 520-3648 Fax www.guardianprinting.com ordernow@guardianprinting.com TNT Printing Offset - Letterpress - Digital 421 S. Cypress St. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 697-8207 tntprinting@roadrunner.com University Printing 153 E. Whittier Blvd. Ste A La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 690-8954 www.universityprinting.org Mark Sanders REALTORS v Keller Williams Reality The Kennedys 16310 Whittier Blvd. Suite F Whittier, CA 90603 (562) 902-5100 ROOFING v Swanson Roofing 600 N. Warne Street La Habra, CA 90631 (714) 401-0963 Kevin Swanson Lic. #678228 SKIN AND NAILS Face It Skin & Nails Spa 1630 W. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 691-7888 faceitsv@yahoo.com SENIOR CARE Senior Solutions P.O. Box 813 Brea, CA 92822 Pauline Hampton, LVN (714) 318-0835 www.4seniorsolutions.com “We find senior living homes”
TREE TRIMMING v Williams Tree Service PO Box 5557 Whittier, CA 90607-5557 (562) 692-8677 wtreedude@aol.com License#941245
UPHOLSTERY SERVICES Collins Trim Shop Auto, Marine, Commercial, Medical and Dental recovering 345 W. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 697-6017 www.collinstrimshop.com Mike Steves, Proprietor VEHICLE WRAPS/BANNERS OC Wraps 2120 E. Lambert Road, Suite C La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 599-9037 www.ocwraps.net ocwraps@yahoo.com WINDOW TINTING v Window Tinting Associates 2253 W. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 694-0504 (800) 953-TINT Auto***Home***Office v Indicates display advertiser.
Want your company to be seen by the entire community in a resource list of industry specialists? Then get your name here in the Business Directory! Contact Sue Thompson (562) 665-9711 sthompson @lahabrajournal.com
PET BOARDING & GROOMING The Dog Lodge 1551 W. Lambert Road La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 691-1152
WILLIAMS TREE SERVICE l l l l l
PHARMACY v Bi-Rite quality pharmacy Home health and medical equipment. 340 N. Harbor Blvd La Habra Ca 90631 562-691-0539.
l l l l l
TOPPING REMOVAL
GENERAL CLEAN-UPS FIREWOOD LICENSED
RESIDENTIAL
With more than 50 years of management, brokerage and development experience, GM Properties is the premier choice Gain a new perspective! for property management throughout Southern California. Prime Real Estate Media is Southern California’s GM Properties applies a proactive approach to leading provider for photos, property management and brokerage in order videos, single property websites, to not only preserve, but grow property value. brochures, and other customized media solutions for real estate. Contact us today for your free, confidential Call today for more information about property management assessment and showcasing your real estate! consultation.
Jason K. Jamison, sioR FREE ESTIMATES STATE LIC. 941245 24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
(562) 762-3178 www.gmpropertiesinc.com 13305 Penn St, Ste 200 Whittier, CA 90602
TyleR PoRTman
www.primeremedia.com (562) 708-8994
12
LA HABRA HIGH SCHOOL HOMECOMING COURT 2015 Photos by Miguel Pola
Karen Jimenez with Homecoming King Chris Brown
Amriel Perches with Kaegen Galindo
Queen Nicole Ramos with Zachary Stack
Jessie Langarcia with Alexis Velasco
FEATURES
WHITTIER CHRISTIAN HOMECOMING COURT 2015 Photos by Jay Seidel
Callie Chen
Shane Dean
Erica Romo
Zac Fowler
Queen Morgan Ryan
Steven Gindi
Claudia Soto
King Noah Ho
Alyssa Waite
Trevor McGee
Heather Washle
Garret Veloff
Maddie Martin with Zedric Flores
Alma Hernandez and Rolando Lozano
Samantha Polanco and Prince Ross
Chandler Holguin with Angelina Alatorre
SPORTS
13
Lady Raiders fall in first round against Los Altos By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
The Raiders strong regular season ended sooner than expected as the Sonora girls volleyball team fell in three straight games on the road against Los Altos. The Raiders had hopes for a longer playoff run, after their 17 wins set the school record for wins in a season. However they ran into a strong team from Hacienda Heights in the Conquerors who dominated the Raiders winning 25-13, 25-9, and 25-9. The Raiders competed in every
Celebration: Sonora Libero Lauran Guiterrez jumps as she celebrates with her Lady Raider teammates during an earlier match this season.
game this season and played very well against their league, but struggled under the pressure of CIF. “I think we beat ourselves. I couldn’t tell you one thing that they did that we haven’t seen before, I just think the moment got a little too big for us,” head coach Andrew Johnson said. The Raiders got off to a slow start and never recovered. Los Altos led or was tied for all but one point. During the second game Sonora led 2-1 but lost the next four points to go down 5-2. After the game, coach Johnson knew this would be a tough pill to swallow for many of his seniors. “I felt for my seniors, a really close group that I’ve worked with,” Johnson said, “I feel like the season was cut short prematurely. The Raiders prepared for tough games by competing in league, working hard in practice, and even playing a tough preseason schedule. “I know all year, I’m going to ask myself what I could have done to avoid this,” Johnson said. For the Raiders, they’ll carry a stinging loss with them until they get a chance to redeem themselves next year. “We have to learn how to play in the playoffs and not buckle under the pressure,” Johnson said. After the Raiders fell 25-13 in the first game, their stronger start looked promising. However, as Los Altos responded,
HALLMARK CARPETS “Family owned & operated since 1961”
l Carpet l Vinyl l Ceramic l Wood Flooring
l Draperies l Blinds l Shutters l Laminate
SAVE
TODAY No interest for
24 MONTHS
On Purchase With Your Shaw Floors Credit Card. 24 Equal Monthly Payments Required
or Savings up to $500 on select Shaw flooring
647 E. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 691-3621 (714) 526-1279
COME HOME TO HALLMARK
Photos by Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Up for a block: Sonora’s Nicole Fraga and Gracie Babashoff go up for a block in an earlier game this season. The Lady Raiders fell to Los Altos on the road last week in the first round of CIF playoffs.
they kept their intensity up, burying point after point. “Our inability to pass or serve really hurt us. We weren’t able to get offense going,” Johnson said. The Raiders began to make mental mistakes, struggling to make clean passes or receive serves. “All of a sudden we got tense and we let some knuckleheaded plays fall on our side,” Johnson said. Their final game highlighted all
of the night’s struggles as they fell down 9-0 to start the game. This game allowed the debut of three players from the Junior Varsity, Ari Gonzalez, Natasha Desatoff, and Savannah Arozco “I’m sure that a lot of people are expecting that with Allie and Nicole and our seniors to graduate that we might be down next year, but that’s not going to be the case,” Johnson said.
City of La Habra Community Services Department 101 W. La Habra Blvd.
562-383-4200
Black Friday Kid Drop, Parent Shop Friday, November 27th 6:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. $20 per child, $15 per additional sibling (must register at the same time). Register by phone or in person at the Community Center.
Kids will enjoy a day that will include making holiday gifts, decorating holiday goodies, enjoying breakfast and lunch, playing games and watching a holiday movie.
Tamale Festival Sunday, November 29th 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. at the La Habra Community Center For more information, please call (562) 383-4200.
14
SPORTS
Raiders roll to second round
By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
The Raiders did everything right en route to a 42-13 domination of the Tustin Tillers on the road in the first round of CIF. The Raiders controlled all facets of the game as they stunned the Tillers in the first round of CIF. “It was a complete team effort,” head coach Paul Chiotti said, “special teams do special things.” After the Raiders tough loss last week to Buena Park they responded in the best way possible. “We played well against Buena Park, they’re a darn good team, we really played well on offense, we struggled a little bit on defense, so the kids had a little chip on their shoulder,” Chiotti said. “This offseason we worked our butts off. It just came together, coach told us you work for this. Our league is just to prepare us for this, and it definitely did,” Cole McDonald said. Sonora’s offense was unstoppable, driving down field on every drive until midway through the fourth quarter with the second stringers playing. “It was big, this whole week we were focused and everything, and we all wanted this W really bad,” Jacob Fimbres said. Meanwhile the defense created two
turnovers and held the Tillers to just seven points until midway through the fourth. “Play fast, hard and physical, that’s what we talk about,” Jorge Bernabe said. The Raiders’ line was able put pressure on the Tillers on both sides of the ball. The strong play by the line unleashed the Raiders two-headed monster between Fimbres and McDonald who controlled the offensive side of the ball. They were able to go wherever they wanted, and converted first downs at will. “Our wide receivers made clutch catches on third and fourth downs to keep drives alive,” Chiotti said. McDonald threw for 198 yards and two touchdowns as well as ran for 123 and one more touchdown. McDonald scored the Raiders first touchdown on a 67 yard run up the middle of the field. Fimbres was McDonald’s top target, catching five balls out of the backfield. He finished the night with 79 yards through the air as well as two touchdowns. While he was successful catching the ball, he did more of his work on the ground, running for 133 yards on 23 carries with 3 touchdowns. The Raiders’ focus on defense was stopping the Tillers’ rushing attack
Running through: Sonora running back Jacob Fimbres runs past Tustin linebacker Alema Pilimai Friday night in the first round of CIF playoffs. He rushed for 133 yards on 23 carries for three touchdowns along with five receptions for 67 yards and two more touchdowns. The Raiders host San Clemente Friday.
DAN CANNON Since 1975+
Brakes Custom Built Duals Custom 3” Exhaust Factory Replacement Mufflers Catalytic Converter Cat Back Systems
711 E. LA HABRA BLVD.
Office for Rent in La Habra Please call Elaine at 562.400.4244
(562) 694-3319
OC Clean Sweep Chimney Service All sweeps $95.00 Dave Owner/Operator orangecountychimnysweep.com (714) 318-4448
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Leaving them behind: Sonora quarterback Cole McDonald runs past Tustin linebacker Danny Lopez during the Raiders 42-13 victory over the Tillers in the first round of the CIF playoffs.
led by Kenneth Carr and Tyler Noble. Carr struggled to find room due to the Raiders’ strong interior defense. The Tillers had more success running outside with Noble, but the Raiders were able to contain that as well. Sonora’s interior pressure wreaked havoc on the Tillers’ line which disrupted their interior runs and forced them to run outside. This made them predictable and ruined their timing on passing routes. Alema Pilimai was forced to run away from Eric Pulliam and the rest of the Raider pass rush while the Tillers tried to put together scoring drives. “It’s great to see our defense just stop them, and give our offense the ball. Our offense is one to be reckoned with, and our defense just has to put the ball in our hands, and we can make plays,” McDonald said. The Raiders scored on their first drive on a 67 yard run from Cole McDonald, they recovered a fumble on their first play on defense, allowing them to jump out to a quick 14-0 lead. The Raiders defense forced a punt on their next drive. With the ball back, Sonora drove into Tiller territory, and just as they seemed to hit a rut in the offense, McDonald dropped a swing pass to Fimbres who ran 34 yards down the sideline into the end zone. After the Tillers ran in for a five yard touchdown, the Raiders got back to scoring. Fimbres caught another swing pass from 30 yards out, which he took across the field running past defenders into the end zone to give the Raiders a 28-7 lead.
Fimbres would run one more into the end zone before halftime, to give the Raiders a commanding 35-7 lead. This year we’re really coming out strong in the first half, and just putting them away in the fourth quarter,” McDonald said. The Raiders were able to drain the clock scoring on a rushing touchdown with 5 minutes left in the third quarter. The Raiders defense held the Tillers in check until the second string finished the game. The Raiders will host San Clemente in the second round of CIF. “It’s going to be a tough game, number two seed. If we play well, like we played today, we should put a fight on them,” Bernabe. All season many Raiders have taken pride in playing in La Habra, because so many of them have grown up locally. “It’s really exciting, we’re all like family here. We all went to elementary school together and everything, it’s a great feeling,” Fimbres said. For them to play in front of their families, this is a game they are looking forward to. “They want the community to come out. They want everybody to come out and see what they’re doing and see all their work. This team’s about hard work and getting things done,” Chiotti said. “The Lord blessed us today and gave us a home game for next week,” Bernabe said. Sonora hosts a tough San Clamente team Friday at 7 p.m.
Does Medicare confuse you? Call me!
Jerry Perisho
Medicare Health Insurance Plans Proud member, La Habra Chamber of Commerce Call today – 562-547-6569
Phone 562-547-6569 jerryperisho@gmail.com www.calljerry4info.com
Face It Skin & Nails Spa
has a room for rent with a sink. Great for masseuse or esthetician. Also looking for a manicurist. Call Susan at (562) 618-1635
CA License # 0I04403 7771 Bacon Rd. Whittier, CA 90602
PERSONAL ASSISTANT/ CAREGIVER
Caring, honest, dependable personal assistant/caregiver with over twenty years experience. Services include: errands, cooking, driving, help with personal care, medicines, office/ computer skills and more. Call Theresa at (714) 334-7462 tags3@roadrunner.com
SPORTS
15
Highlanders crush Irish in CIF By Jason Burch La Habra Journal
La Habra took care of business quickly in the opening round of the CIF playoffs with a 49-0 blowout victory over Kennedy Friday night at home. Quarterback Eric Barriere led the Highlanders with nearly three quarters of flawless play, scoring on all six possessions before giving way to the second unit to close the game out. After the Highlander defense forced a three-and-out on Kennedy’s opening drive, Barriere expeditiously led the team 50 yards in just three plays before connecting with Prince Ross on a 26-yard skinny post for the score. Ross setup his own touchdown grab with a 22-yard end around on the previous play. “I was feeling really good today and just following my blocks, I couldn’t have done anything without my blockers,” Ross said. The Highlanders were pinned back at the 4-yard-line to start the next drive, but Barriere worked his magic, scrambling to avoid a sack near the goal line before reversing field and taking it all the way to the house for an 87-yard touchdown run. The Irish came back and pushed the ball 73 yards down the field to setup its only potential score of the game. Safety Madison Wheeler spoiled all of Kennedy’s hard work when he blocked the 33-yard field goal attempt, giving the ball back at the Highlander 35-yard-line. Running back C.J. Taylor carried the bulk of the load on the ensuing drive with three carries for 49 yards, before Barriere cashed it in from the 7-yard-line. On Kennedy’s next possession, safety Jacob Jones stepped in front of quarterback Jordan Jackson’s pass for the interception to setup great field position for the Highlander offense at the Irish 35-yard-line. “I saw the quarterback’s eyes focus on the receiver, so I tried to sink under it and just happened to make the play,” Jones said. A few plays later, Barriere added a 3-yard scoring run to make it 28-0 with under a minute at halftime. The Highlanders picked right back up in the second half. Barriere and Ross connected on two more scores of 51 and 8 yards, before handing the ball over to the second unit with 3:11
The beginning of a “savingful” relationship. So how do you really know your “bargain” insurance isn’t going to cost you big if you have an accident? Talk to someone who knows: me. I can help you make sure you have the coverage you need while saving you money in the process. GET TO A BETTER STATE . CALL ME TODAY. ™
Eloisa Villarreal Sharp, Agent Insurance Lic#: 0527328 1871 W La Habra Blvd La Habra, CA 90631 Bus: 562-694-1029 eloisa@eloisasharp.com Mon-Fri 9:00am to 5:00pm Evenings and Saturdays by Appointment
1101234.1
State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL
Photos by Miguel Pola for the La Habra Journal
Keeping them focused: La Habra Head Coach Frank Mazzota talks with the Highlanders at halftime during the 49-0 victory against Kennedy Friday night in the first round of the CIF playoffs at home.
remaining in the third quarter. Barriere completed six-of-eight passes for 117 yards and three touchdowns through the air, and carried the ball three times for 97 yards and three touchdowns on the ground in. “I was really excited to come out and play well in the first playoff game and I just tried to stay loose out there,” Barriere said. “We just wanted show everybody all the hard work that we put in is paying off.” Taylor carried the ball eight times for 148 yards. Ross finished with 99 yards and three scores on four catches. Ross credited the big game to him and Barriere having a good connection and great timing at this point in the season. Jackson led the Irish offense, completing 12-of-26 passes for 170 yards with one interception. The Irish’s number one weapon, Derrick Deese had a nice game with 101 yards on six catches, but the Highlander defense did a great job of
defending the 6-foot-4-inch receiver near the end zone. “[Deese] is a great receiver, he knows how to go up and get the ball, but we just tried to run zones around him and try to contain him, thankfully we happened to do that tonight,” Jones said. Anthony Johar led the Irish on the ground with 53 yards on 17 carries. The victory over the Irish marked the Highlanders third consecutive 40-plus point shutout and eighth consecutive victory. The Highlander offense has scored at least 35 points in all-but one game this season. “The kids have been playing hard, getting ready every week really well, so that is what I am most happy about, is the way they prepare,” said Frank Mazzotta, La Habra head coach. The Highlanders (10-1) will travel south to take on Laguna Hills (8-3) next Friday for round two of the playoffs.
Catch and run: La Habra junior receiver Prince Ross catches a pass Friday during the Highlander’s victory over Kennedy. La Habra travels to Laguna Hills Friday for the second round game.
BUY THE BEST CHRISTMAS TREE IN TOWN!
Veterans Day
We Proudly Honor All Who Served
William Peppard - My Father, My Hero
VETERANS SPECIAL 150 FREE FULL COLOR BUSINESS CARDS
(Just Pay Shipping/Handling Fee of $10.00) Four (4) Veteran Designs To Choose From Contact: sales@scprintwerks.com
Bill - 909.831.2062
at the corner of Whitter Blvd. & Monte Vista
HOURS: Monday-Friday 5-9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m.-9 p.m. ‘till the trees sell out!
Tree lot opening celebration Dec. 5
Thank you for supporting LHHS Championship Football Teams... It’s Tradition!
HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS!
$5 OFF WITH THIS COUPON
Check LH Journal out on Facebook
Our mortgage loans open doors.
At Pacific Community, we can help your new home dreams happen with service, speed and savings.
MORTGAGE LOAN RATES
30 Year Fixed
% 3.750
on e r a s Rate ise. the r , y a l e d Don’t ow. call n
La Habra Blvd
W. Lambert Rd
% 3.921APR *
1202 S. Idaho St., Suite H
S. Idaho St
S. Beach Blvd
In the Imperial Promenade near Target
Imperial Hwy
Imperial Promenade
Apply Today!
Sandlewood Ave
We Listen. We Lend. YourCreditUnion.com 866.640.0770
*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Rates as of 11/13/15. Rates are subject to change without notice. Rates may be higher based on loan-tovalue (LTV), credit score, loan type or collateral type. For all 1st Trust Deed Loans: Owner-occupied California properties only. APR based on $250,000.00 loan amount with 1.2593% points. Representative Example: Make 360 monthly payments of $1,157.79 each month at 3.921% APR. All loans subject to Pacific Community’s customary due diligence, underwriting, credit approval and documentation. Other terms and conditions may apply. Services available to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Orange County, Riverside County, the San Gabriel Valley and the Gateway Cities of Los Angeles County. FEDERALLY INSURED BY NCUA