Raiders start journey to defend basketball title See Sports Page 12
La Habra’s Independent Community Newspaper
www.lahabrajournal.com
No. 95469
December 17, 2015
Gomez named new LH mayor
Seventh Heaven
By Jay Seidel La Habra Journal
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
CIF Champions: The La Habra Highlanders captured their seventh CIF Southern Section Title December 4 when they defeated the San Clemente Tritons 39-36 on a last-second touchdown pass to Prince Ross from Eric Barriere at Cerritos College. For more on this game see the story on Page 14.
Road repair workshop set
The city of La Habra Heights is looking to inform residents about road repair. By Daniel Hernandez La Habra Journal
Officials in La Habra Heights hope a community town hall style meeting informs residents about the importance of funding road repairs, with optimism about putting the issue to a vote in June. A roads workshop, where people can raise concerns and city council members can state the significance of a road tax to pay for road repairs, is scheduled at city hall on January 9 from 9-11 a.m. City officials want residents to decide on the matter before June in order to include it in the next tax assessment before January 2017. “Your talking less than six months to get people to care about [funding for road repairs], and most people don’t even know,” LH Heights Councilwoman Jane Williams said at the December city council meeting. At the meeting, officials discussed the format of the roads workshop and described an event where people will be able to ask questions and raise concerns about a road tax and road
LA HABRA HEIGHTS
repairs. LH Heights Mayor Michael Higgins outlined a timetable as to when a vote with the public and a city decision needed to be made in order for the road tax to reach the next tax assessment. “If we don’t have a consensus and a vote by a certain date, then we would not be able to get the assessment on the tax rolls for next year, and we will have to skip another year, assuming we got it passed,” Higgins said. According to City Manager Shauna Clark, in late March or early April, council will need to decide whether to send a ballot measure out for a vote in June. Fifty percent of the voters who need to be property owners need to vote “yes” in order for the measure to pass, Clark explained. A pavement study funded by the city will be completed after January, officials said at the council meeting. The study will help council learn about what the costs of the road repairs will be, and will be a driving factor in the voting. “We want people to be happy with what we’re doing here, and I think everybody knows that our roads have to
be maintained, and it is a detriment to the city and to all the residents when we have poorly maintained roads,” Higgins said. Some patchwork road repairs were recently completed in some select parts of La Habra Heights in the past couple of months with funds pieced together from separate parts of the city’s budget. Higgins praised the work of contractors on the quality of the job but notes that the repairs were minor and that a significant amount more needs to be done. He explained that the city took the funds that they saved from federal and state road funds and just put it into $750,000 repairs. “And I bet if we added all the amount repaired together it’s probably not more than a mile and a half,” Higgins said. “We just spent three quarters of a million dollars in thirty days.” Not too long ago residents voted against a road tax, but city officials believe the public was not well informed about the importance. Higgins wants this question and answer meeting and possibly more future meetings like it to educate and better inform the community before the road funding debate hits the ballot this time around.
WHAT ’ S INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Local author releases Sci-fi book
Lions Club shows off cars for a cause
LOCAL NEWS PAGE 4
FEATURES PAGES 8
La Habra has itself a new mayor. However, the mayor position is not new to this person. Last Monday, Jim Gomez was appointed to be the city’s mayor for what will be his third time. However, Gomez noted that this year would be different than his previous terms “This is going to be a great year,” Gomez said. “I’ve never felt better. I’m full of energy and have great plans, and I can’t wait to get started.” Gomez takes over as mayor for Councilman Michael Blazey. “Mayor Blazey did an outstanding job as mayor,” Gomez added. “He focused on emergency preparedness, and the true test of this was how well prepared our city was during the fire. ClearGOMEZ ly, La Habra is better prepared in the event of a disaster. For that I’m thankful to Mayor Blazey.” Gomez said his theme this year is “La Habra is Still the One!” He expressed his excitement about the upcoming year because according to Gomez, the community is “still the one place to live, work and play.” He added that he will unveil a new city-themed music video this year as well. Gomez had previously created a video “I Love LH” set to the music of Randy Newman’s “I Love LA.” “This city means everything to me,” Gomez said. “So it’s an honor to be its mayor.” Often referred to as “Mr. La Habra,” Gomez reaffirmed his commitment to working for the residents. “I want the community to know that I will be there to serve them with all my heart and soul,” he said. “They can call me anytime. This is going to be a great year.”
La Habra restaurant shares family atmosphere for over 30 years. FEATURES PAGE 10
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Come out for a guided hike through the Deer Loop trail. Deer Loop is a lush(under 2 miles) easy loop. One of the trails unique features is a loop around a vast meadow that Mule Deer often enjoy grazing in! This Deer Loop hike will be guided in two levels; one ideal for a beginner, and another for the advanced hiker. Dogs ok. Light rain ok, rain cancels. Meet up at Arroyo Pescadero, 7531 Colima Rd., Whittier at 9 a.m.
Monday, December 21, 2015
LH Community Center will be closed today thru Friday, January 1 and will re-open on Monday, January 4, 2016. Please note that the Senior lunch program will not operate during the closure. La Habra City Council Meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
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 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, December 24, 2015
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church will be having their Christmas Vigil today and Christmas Mass tomorrow. See their ad on page 8 for the schedule. Emmanuel Lutheran Church will be having their Christmas Eve Candlelight Services this evening. See their ad on page 8 for the schedule.
Friday, December 25, 2015 Merry Christmas!
LH City Hall will be closed today thru Friday, January 1 and will reopen on Monday, January 4, 2016.
Friday, January 1, 2016
Monday, January 4, 2016
La Habra City Council Meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 7, 2016
La Habra High School Open House is today. See their ad on page 16 for more details.
Friday, January 8, 2016
A night at the Museum! Join the La Habra Recreation staff for an epic overnight takeover of the Children’s Museum at La Habra! Fun family activities will include games, crafts, storytelling, a movie and more. Dinner, breakfast and snacks will be served. Open to children ages four through 12 years with an accompanying parent/guardian. The fee is $20 per person, and pre-registration is necessary. Limited space is available, so register early by visiting the Community Center, 101 W. La Habra Blvd., 562-383-4205, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 9, 2016
Armstrong Garden Centers in La Habra is offering a free class at 9 a.m. Rose Pruning – Learn how pruning keeps plants healthy and promotes lots of gorgeous blooms.
Monday, January 11, 2016
La Habra City Planning Commission Meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
Public Meeting regarding the new site for the LH Post Office will be held this evening at the Community Center at 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 14, 2016
La Habra Heights City Council Meeting begins at 6 p.m. Join this free workshop at the LH Library tonight from 6-7:30 p.m. on Weight Management with Dr. Susan Heller. Learn everyday ways to maintain your weight and feel great. Learn how to adopt healthy eating and exercise habits for a healthier lifestyle. Dr. Susan Heller is currently the Medical Director of UCI’s Executive Health Program.
Happy New Year!
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Our Lady of Guadalupe FoodDrive for the LH Resource Center is this weekend. Everyone in the community is invited to come to the church parking lot today between 5-6 p.m. or tomorrow (Sunday) from 6-11:30 a.m. to drop off canned goods, dry goods and toiletries.
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Target Free Sunday at the LH Children’s Museum from 1-5 p.m.
NEWS BRIEFS
Office For Rent - 800 SQ Ft - La Puente Perfect location for Immigration office Please call Elaine at 562.400.4244
Sue Thompson/La Habra Journal
From left to right: Glenda Temple, Toni Gartner, Merill Evans, Mayor James Gomez, Kitty Zoeter, Nicole Panza and Dorothy Knox present the winners of the drawings at the La Habra Historical Museum last week on December 12. More information in story below.
LH Historical Museum Announces winners in drawings
The La Habra Historical Museum held its opportunity drawing December 12 for its recent fundraiser. Mayor James Gomez and Museum Curator Nicole Panza were present to assist with the drawing and contact the winners. First Prize winner of the Framed Historical Map of the La Habra Valley created by local artist Gil Ortega, was Diane Swisshelm. Second Prize winner of dinner for two once a month at Senor Campos for a year was Sally DeBerry. Third Prize winner of $100 was Bruce Martin.Martin donated his winnings back to the museum.
Primarily Hair collecting toys
Primarily Hair will be collecting toys, gift cards, clothing and other donations to help three families in need. The families were nominated by their clients. If interested, people can visit their website at www.primarilyhair.com, click on Community Clips for a description of each family and items they are in need of. Donations will be accepted through December 19. Primarily Hair is located at 820 E. Whittier Blvd., La Habra. (562) 694-6581.
Local Scout earns Eagle
Brian Mitchell of Troop 1814 in La Habra earned the rank of Eagle Scout on October 4, 2015. Mitchell has been in Troop 1814 since 2009 coming over from La Habra’s Pack 817. He is currently serving as Junior Assistant Scoutmaster in the Troop, and over the years has held various positions including Senior Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Order of the Arrow Representative, Librarian and Troop Guide. He is a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow and was recently elected to Vice Chief of Indian Affairs for 2016. The 17-year-old senior attends La Habra High School and is part of the school’s NJROTC unit as well as the marching and concert bands where he has played both percussion instru-
ments and saxophone. He also plays piano. If you have ever attended either the La Habra Corn Festival or the La Habra Citrus Fair, or participated in the Run/ Walk for Life in Fullerton, or ventured out to the Orange County Fair, or participated in Scouting for Food, then there’s a good chance you have seen Mitchell at work with the Order of the Arrow at one of these functions. In years past, he has helped out when his Troop has participated in the Coastal Clean Up Day as well as Operation Santa. And, for Mitchell the past few years, Brian has helped put up flags at Memory Garden Memorial Park & Mortuary in Brea in honor of our veterans on Memorial Day as well as marched in the City of Fullerton Veteran’s Day Parade for the past two years with his NJROTC unit. Mitchell’s Eagle Project was completed at La Habra Hills Presbyterian Church where he built out shelving and storage units for use by their library and pre-school. He raised money for his project by holding a car wash. Mitchell’s Eagle Court of Honor will be at La Habra Hills Presbyterian Church January 23, 2016. Upon graduation from high school, Brian plans to travel abroad and will then enter the United States Navy to better serve his country.
Miss La Habra Pageant applications available soon
Applications for the Miss La Habra Pageant will be available in early January. Some of the places you can pick up the application will be at all three high schools, the community center and the Chamber of Commerce.
NOTICE
Public Meeting to be Held at the La Habra Community Center (Valle Verde Room) January 13th 2016 at 6:30PM Discussion of a new site for The La Habra Civic Center Station Location: 101 West La Habra Blvd., La Habra, CA 90631 For additional information please see posting at La Habra –Civic Center Station, 200 N. Euclid St.
Owner Operated Lic # 678228
Kevin Swanson Cell: 714-401-0963
OPINION
COMMENTARY
Did you know... By Nicole Panza La Habra Historical Museum
In 2007 the city of La Habra compiled a Historic Resources Inventory report in order to identify structures that could potentially be eligible for listing as a historically or architecturally significant building. The study focused primarily on houses and buildings in the neighborhoods around the current civic center, and those built prior to World War II. Many of the homes in this area were found to be good examples of La Habra’s architectural past, and contribute to the overall historical streetscape. One of the styles that was emphasized in this study was the Pacific Ready Cut home, a type of pre-cut or kit home that made home building uniform and more accessible for potential homeowners. The Pacific Ready Cut company was based in Los Angeles from 1908 to 1940 and sold approximately 40,000 homes to Californians. These homes were not only well built and
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.
aesthetically pleasing, they were easier to assemble with their precut and labeled pieces. Prospective homeowners could choose from many affordable styles including the one pictured below. Some of the distinguishing characteristics of a Pacific Ready Cut home include cross and side gabled bungalows and cottages, clipped gable porches, horizontal wood siding, and built-in interior features such as bookshelves and china hutches. Several examples of Pacific Ready Cut homes are located on Erna Avenue, Francis Avenue, and Florence Avenue alongside many other homes that are representative of La Habra’s historical and architectural heritage. Just another interesting piece of history about where we live, work, and enjoy being a part of the La Habra community. Sources: City of La Habra Historic Resources Inventory Phase One Report June 2007, Prepared by Cynthia Ward.
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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
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Learning the scope of community support
Something happens at the end of each college semester that I wished that more people in La Habra would be able to experience. It just took place, and once again left me grateful for being a part of our city. One of the courses I teach at Fullerton College is an introductory course in public relations. It is a beginning class, to give students an idea of what the field of public relations is all about. A few years ago I decided to try to give the students a real-world experience and also connect with the local nonprofits. The concept is simple. The students are paired up with a nonprofit organization, which they treat as a client and create a media kit for them. The students then present their media kits and talk about the nonprofits to the class and the invited nonprofit directors. As you know, La Habra has a great number of nonprofit organizations. It’s what leads the city to have the motto, a Caring Community. Many of the nonprofits I have my students work with are ones based in La Habra. About a year ago I started searching Fullerton nonprofits as a way to not overburden our La Habra nonprofits with too many students. However, I haven’t been able to find as many active nonprofit organizations than we have here in La Habra. So, I keep coming back to LH. These presentations are what I wished more people would have the opportunity to hear. We held the presentations last Thursday. I
was so impressed with what the many nonprofit organizations are doing and have been doing for people. I’m a La Habra native and always heard about La Habra caring, but never really knew to what extent until I took over the LH Journal. I’m guessing that many residents hear that there are nonprofits and things are done in the community, but it’s often hard to grasp the scope. My students, many of which aren’t from La Habra and only know the city from the Corn Festival or high school football, are always surprised at the amount of outpouring of support and activity that takes place with the nonprofits. As a resident, I am so proud to hear what our nonprofits and volunteers do for our community. Many of the organizers in the audience have said that they are also surprised and proud of the work that we do for each other in our community. The hour or so of presentations highlight the work being done and the things coming up in the near future for the nonprofits. Hearing the amount of caring and community support being done in our city is something that I always look forward to. We should all take time to think about what happens in our community and all the love and support in what makes La Habra a truly caring community —The Editor
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Local author finds publishing success with zombies By Jason Burch La Habra Journal
In the back of Orange County’s favorite geeky fanboy haven, the Comic Book Hideout, the selfdubbed “Nerd Girl” blogger, Sara Elizabeth Santana patiently circulated through a room full of kindred fans eagerly awaiting their turn to chat with the newly published author and get a signed copy of her book, “The Awakened.” Adorned with a bell shaped white Sunday dress with purple floral accents, Santana brimmed with excitement as she waltzed between fans, taking the time to connect with each one at the official launch party. Santana, a lifelong La Habra resident, recalls her affinity for writing beginning at an early age. At about 13, she took a liking to journalism and had aspirations of becoming a sports editor one day. She won first and second place for a short story contests at the OC Fair when she was 16 and attending Sonora High School and the seeds of writing were sewn. Santana attributes Marjie Blevins and Laurie Row from Sonora as
some of the teachers who encouraged her to pursue her writing. By the time she was 22, Santana’s focus shifted away from journalism and she gravitated towards a different type of writing. After years of voraciously reading young adult and romance novels, it became clear to Santana that writing a book was her ultimate goal. While attending Cal State Fullerton, she took a leap of faith and put her college career on hold to pursue her dreams. “I was a history major, but I had absolutely no idea what I was going to do with it,” Santana said. “I liked history and I was doing the work, but I wasn’t sure it was something I wanted to do, so I put it on hold to write this book.” Over the past five years, Santana’s blog—whatanerdgirlsays.com has been the strop by which her writing skills have developed a sharpened edge. Prior to her landing a deal with OfTomes Publishing, Santana released several stories for peer and fan review straight through her blog. After writing multiple romance stories without receiving a bite from
Wishing you and your family the very best during the holiday season and throughout the New Year!
With Love Mayor James Gomez “Mr. La Habra” & Family
LOCAL NEWS
Photo courtesy Santana Family
Signing away: La Habra Native Sara Elizabeth Santna signs posters and copies of her new book “The Awakened” at Comicbook Hideout in Fullerton December 5. The sci-fi novel marks the first book for the author.
a publisher, Santana deviated from her comfort zone, delving into science fiction and ironically landed her first book deal. “The Awakened,” is a sci-fi tale about a virus that turns a large portion of the population into zombies, well not your typical zombies— Santana’s version have the ability to communicate with each other, mobilize and move quickly. “I was never a big fan of zombies, because everybody dies and they move so slow. I’m always like, RUN, why don’t they just run,” she said with a laugh. “My zombies are fast and they talk to each other, they talk to you while they eat you.” The story is centered around two characters in their late teens, Zoe and Ash, who have lived a sheltered life prior to the Z-Virus outbreak, but are suddenly forced to wade through the apocalyptic undertaking that was hurled at them. Santana admitted that writing the book was difficult, she said there were times when she thought that she would never finish. “It’s hard, but you just have to keep pushing through it,” she said. One thing to keep in mind, Santana advised, is that as a writer you have to accept that from time to time, you will write badly. As difficult as writing the story was, perhaps her biggest obstacle was pitching the book to publishers. “Writing is hard, but it’s almost the easy part,” Santana said. “It took me nine months to write the book, but it took me a year and a half to find someone to publish it.” Rapidly approaching her 100th rejection, Santana somewhat reluctantly pitched her story one more time to Benjamin Alderson of OfTomes, an upstart publisher out of the United Kingdom. “A week later he sent me back an email and said ‘we need to talk,’” Santana said. “He said ‘I love this book, we are going to make this work.’” After the two Skyped, it was clear that Alderson was completely on board and committed to getting her book finished. “I cried, it had been almost two years of writing and doing all of this,” Santana said. “It was that moment when you’re like, ‘this is why I did all of this.’” Santana credits her family and friends for keeping her head above water through the ups and downs of
writing and dealing with the deluge of rejections she had to endure. “I cried, then I told my dad and told my best friend,” Santana said. “When [Alderson] said that we were going to get this published, I was like YES, then I would think, wait is this really happening?” With each step along the way, Santana began to realize that her dreams were beginning to materialize. “It’s an amazing feeling,” Santana said about being at her launch party. “I review books on my site, so I am at these things all the time, just never on this side of it.” Santana is looking forward to more launch parties on this side of the table. The sequel to her debut book is already in the works, and targeted for a release in December 2016. She is also just finishing up a romance novel, which is currently untitled. According to Santana, it’s a love story that ties her love of baseball in as the backdrop, ala “Bull Durham.” “The Awakened” is currently receiving 4.43 out of 5 stars on Goodreads.com. It’s available on Amazon.com, through Kindle and on Santana’s official website, www. sesantanawrites.com
The Awakened
Sara Elizabeth Santana Genre: Young Adult, Sci-Fi Pages: 444 Oftomes Publishing 2015
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
Some stories are worth repeating. On December 7, 1914, Pope Benedict XV suggested that nations in the midst of World War I call a truce for Christmas. Although the nations did not officially act on that suggestion, what happened was nearly miraculous. On Christmas Eve, soldiers on the front, on both sides of battles stopped shooting at each other. As the day advanced into the evening, soldiers on one side of the battlefields could hear those on the other singing Christmas carols in their respective languages. At one point the allies could hear brass instruments playing Christmas carols across the battlefield. As Christmas Day began, American soldiers saw German soldiers walk out to “no man’s land”, the area of the battlefield between the opposing trenches. At first they thought it was a trick, but then it was realized that they were unarmed. The allies as well went out to greet the soldiers. In some instances there was even an exchange of gifts of cigarettes and plum pudding. As the day went on there were credible reports of soccer games being played by the two sides. At day’s end the truce ended as well. We can certainly learn from what happened in 1914. Wouldn’t it be a wonderful way of celebrating to call a truce in our own lives? Where there might be unresolved issues alive in a family or between family members, how about calling a truce? Where there might be moments of unbridled anger in families, why not call a truce? Where there might be a breaking relationship between two people, why not call a truce? In some ways it’s hard to believe that something that happened in 1914 can be a reminder of how we might live our lives today. But in the instance of one day in a world war, we have a valid example of how we might approach Christmas 2015. As in 1914, 2015 can be made a Merrier Christmas. 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.
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Warmest Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season!
December 17, 2015
December is a time of celebration across our school district. Our school communities gather in fun-filled activities that celebrate and share goodwill during this special time of year. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the creative and dedicated staff at our schools that give of their time and energy every day to help our students succeed. We wish you all a happy holiday and look forward to seeing everyone back at school in the New Year!
El Cerrito Family Night
KIdZone elves hard at work creating holiday gifts.
Sierra Vista and Ladera Palma celebrating a night of holiday family fun crafts, hot chocolate, and even a visit from Santa!
Imperial Ukulele Club performing with students from Las Positas
Arbolita Christmas Craft family night.
Imperial Concert Band
Calendar reminder
Our Winter Holiday Schedule Winter Recess December 21st – January 1st
Students Return from Winter Recess January 4th (Monday)
Reflecting on our Good Fortune
Recent world events have increased everyone’s awareness of the need for all communities to join together to keep our families and neighbors safe. In the La Habra City School District we have always been fortunate to work closely with the La Habra Police Department. Our schools are supported directly by our School Resource Officer, Jason Sanchez. Officer Sanchez goes above and beyond to not only keep our schools safe, but to instill in our students a positive relationship with law enforcement.
Select students at Imperial Middle recently participated in his Law Enforcement Club that culminated in a visit to the La Habra Police Station. Officer Sanchez also worked to bring Target’s Heroes and Helpers program to ten students in La Habra who had the opportunity to go on a ‘shopping spree’ with a member of the La Habra Police Department. We are grateful to Officer Sanchez and the La Habra Police Department for their continued support of our students, schools, and our community.
Law Enforcement Club members visit the La Habra Police Station
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
7
LOCAL NEWS
Senor Campos shares Christmas with kids By Nicholas McNeil La Habra Journal
The Boys and Girls Club of La Habra took their traditional walk over to Senor Campos Mexican Restaurant on December 5, to enjoy a little Christmas cheer. After being served a free breakfast, and singing a few Christmas carols, the 50 energetic children met Santa and received gifts directly
All smiles: Former owner John Campos looks on at the annual breakfast he and his late wife Tillie started more than 20 years ago.
from him. John Campos, previous owner of the restaurant, attended the event to honor the tradition and enjoy the event with the Boys and Girls Club. Campos shared how the event started. “I think it started mostly with my wife. She is the one that has an open heart for these kids,” Campos said. “When we were growing up, we were in their level where we needed to have someone give us a gift.” Tillie Campos, along with her husband John, started the program with the Boys and Girls Club years ago. She passed away three years ago and the restaurant has changed hands, but the program continues on like she started. “She’s probably in heaven saying ‘Thank God for these new owners, because they have continued this tradition’, said Mark Chavez, director of the La Habra Boys and Girls Club. “Beautiful people, great restaurant, and we just appreciate Senor Campos always doing this for the children.” The future of this tradition is a bright one. John Campos and the new owners of the restaurant have no plans of stopping the tradition, and they wish to see the tradition go on for many years to come. “As long as the restaurant is here, I think it will go on,” Campos said. “What happens after it closes, I don’t know. But as long as the restaurant is open, it will always go on.”
Photos by Nick McNeil
For good little boys: A line of boys get ready to talk with Santa at the annual breakfast at Senor Campos for approximately 50 children from the La Habra Boys and Girls Club last weekend.
He sees you: Santa catches up with two boys who were singing Christmas songs at the annual Senor Campos breakfast last weekend.
L A I
EC
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I got it: Children show off the toys they were given from Santa at the annual Boys and Girls Club breakfast at Senor Campos.
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FEATURES
Lions show their (Santa) Cause
By Kelsey Hutchison La Habra Journal
The holiday season is here and the spirit of sharing and giving is upon us. The La Habra Host Lions Club sponsored the 2015 Santa Cause Classic Custom Car Show for Kids for the fifth year in a row on December 6. For many, this annual event is always a bright light at the end of a hectic and busy year. The focus of the event was to reach out and assist children in need, by accepting donated pajamas, toys, board games and sports balls. The event took place in the CVS parking lot and included live entertainment, novelty cars, a Hot Boats Cackle Fest and a BBQ lunch hosted by the Lions Club. The venue allowed for a display of a bevy of incredible cars, boats and vendors. Families and car enthusiasts waded through a sea of over 160 antique and novelty, sports cars, customs and g-machines. They tapped their feet to some great music and everyone enjoyed a tasty BBQ feast courtesy of Lion Randy McMillan – all in support of an outstanding cause. Liz Steves and Danny Hanson have been a part of this event since 2011 when the event was adopted as a service project by the Lions Club.
“We have 40 of our members here making this event possible,” Steves said. “We ask for sport balls and game boards which are great action items that can be used for physical and intellectual fitness.” One of the highlights of the event was when La Habra’s own Cory McClenethan, National Hot Rod Association personality, rolled Santa himself into the event in a 1966 Chevy Nova. All of the donated toys have been earmarked for special delivery to local non-profit organizations to distribute to children in need who might not otherwise have anything to enjoy during the holiday season. Ofelia Hanson, president of the La Habra Host Lions Club, shared that “events like this bring the community together to raise funds for non-profit organizations.” The event also reminded some people of their own lives growing up. One person that felt this way was Kim Praster, from Lady Bug Environmental Pest Control. “I come from a small town,” Praster explained, “and being a member of a club that gives back so much to the community really takes me back to my hometown.” Plans for next year’s event are already underway.
Sue Thompson/La Habra Journal
Santa and his helpers: Santa stopped by the annual Santa Cause event to the delight of many children.
Photos by Nick MacNeill and Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
ABOVE: Families walked the rows of cars that filled the CVS parking lot at the annual charity car show. LEFT: Miss La Habra Princesses Nicole Ramos and Maddie Martin show off nutcrackers, which were some of the many items raffled off to those who attended. FAR LEFT: More than 160 cars were on display at the annual charity event to raise money and donations for local nonprofit organizations.
Emanuel Lutheran Church would like to invite you to our
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church 900 W. La Habra Blvd., La Habra (562) 691-0533
Christmas 2015 Mass Schedule Christmas Vigil - Thursday, December 24 4:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m.
– English (Family Mass) – Church – English – Msgr. Coleman Center – Spanish (Family Mass)
Christmas Day - Friday, December 25 12:00 Midnight – English (Gloria Dei Choir) 10:00 a.m. – English 12:00 Noon – Spanish (No evening Mass on Christmas Day)
New Year’s Mass Schedule New Year’s Eve - Thursday, December 31, 5:30 p.m. – English New Year’s Day – Friday, January 1, 2016 10:00 a.m. – Bilingual
“Christmas Eve Candlelight Services” December 24, 2015
7:00 p.m.– Candlelight Worship Service for Family and Children 11:00 p.m.– Candlelight Service with Traditional Christmas Music performed by our own Handbells & Chancel Choir
Emanuel Lutheran Church
150 N. Palm St., La Habra, CA 90631 562-691-0656
Be sure to like us on Facebook facebook.com/LHJournal
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10
FEATURES
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Iconic Pepper Shaker makes it about family
By Taylor Engle La Habra Journal
Christmas music plays softly in the background, accompanying the soft murmur of people in plush, gold booths and dark redwood tables. Waiters and waitresses scurry about, chatting familiarly with customers and topping off errant coffee cups. Poinsettias and colorfully decorated wreaths adorn the walls alongside calming photographs of landscapes, giving an overall homey feeling to the place, as though it has been decorated with careful thought. Whether dining alone or in groups, each guest is greeted enthusiastically by every passing member of the staff, not excluding the owner himself, who passes about each table making sure everyone is satisfied. It’s another relaxing Friday morning at the Pepper Shaker Restaurant in La Habra. Located on Imperial Highway and Harbor Boulevard, the Pepper Shaker Restaurant has been a local icon for 31 years, continuously pleasing both regulars and newcomers alike. It has seen multiple businesses around it come and go, yet the restaurant has stood its ground without wavering. Originally a Spires Restaurant, it was purchased by owner Peter Lembesis and his partner and christened Pepper Shaker Restaurant in 1985. “My partner and I owned the Salt and Pepper Restaurant in Orange at the time. We decided to part ways; he kept the Orange location and I took FloodInsAd.pdf 8 11/24/15 said. 3:45 PM the Pepper Shaker,” Lembesis Lembesis has been in the restaurant business since 1970 with experi-
ence owning a pizza place in Canada and later working as a directorial manager for Sambo’s Restaurant. He is no stranger to owning a restaurant and is well-versed in how to do so successfully. “There are three important steps to being successful,” said Lembesis with a proud smile. “First, you can’t have absentee management. You must be here every day. Second, you have to get to know the customers and make them all feel equally important. Finally, you must have quality food and service.” The Pepper Shaker Restaurant has a wide variety of cuisine from American to Greek to Mexican and everything is made fresh at the restaurant. Aside from the everyday menu, there is a different special and homemade soup for each day of the week. As far as the customer service goes, there is not one unfriendly face at the Pepper Shaker Restaurant. “All of my employees have been here as long as me,” said Lembesis endearingly. “I make sure to tailor my motivation to each employee, because everyone responds differently. It’s important to help them grow by growing myself.” Manager and server Jo Ann Burrup has been on staff for eight years. She began as a customer and was hired temporarily when Lembesis was in need of some extra help. “Eight years later and we’re still on temporary,” Burrup joked with bright eyes. Burrup had previous experience as a server so it was a natural fit, but the people are what kept her.
EL N NO
From the helpful and endearing staff to the welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place to establish relationships as well as have a satisfying meal. “Eighty percent of my customers are dear friends of mine,” mused Lembesis gratefully. “We have survived being in the middle of an abandoned parking lot with only two fences as neighbors, and that is all because of the people.”
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“Everyone is like a family here, customers and staff alike. If you want to know what’s happening in La Habra, you come to the Pepper Shaker. I cry with my customers and laugh with them.” In return, the regular customers appreciate Burrup’s intimate nature. “I never liked fish until Jo Ann suggested I try cod,” said regular Chuck Leffler. “My wife and I really like her; I’m always making her laugh.” Burrup’s favorite dish that she recommends to everyone is the spinach frittata. “It’s like a fancy omelet,” she said with a laugh. “I’ve never had anyone say they don’t like it.” Take one step inside the door and it’s clear why the Pepper Shaker Restaurant has been a favorite all these years.
City of La Habra
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Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Family friendly icon: The Pepper Shaker stands tall despite the changes to the nearby businesses over the years. It also continues to provide family-friendly service to all its guests as it has for more than 31 years.
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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
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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
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12
SPORTS
Raiders ready to defend title By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
Last season was a dream that came true for the Sonora Raiders boys basketball program, but this year they embark on a new challenge. Last season the Raiders went undefeated in the Freeway League, advanced to the CIF Southern Section Div 2 Finals, beating Gahr High School in a come from behind thriller at the Honda Center. The Raiders would play two more games, eventually falling on the road against Alemany on a last second shot. “It was great, it was great for the school, it was great for the program, it was great for us professionally and personally, but you’ve got to move on,” Assistant coach Jason Stein said. And move on they will. This year will be a brand new squad. The Raiders return only four players from last year’s team, led by Kevin Marlow, Austin Carter, and Steven Riley. Fortunately for Sonora, it has had the luxury of a strong junior varsity team, which will support the Raiders young core, led by projected starting shooting guard, Matt Schmidt. The Raiders have plenty of talented, unproven players and will see them mature quickly. “We are young and growing,” Stein said, “It’s a whole new team, and even those returners are stepping up into new roles. We’re just figuring it out, and we know we have a really, really hard schedule Terry
Pam
Chris
Ready to go: Sonora’s Steven Riley looks for an open man. Riley will help lead the Raiders team this season to defend their title.
in December.” The Raiders will lean on Marlow as one of their go-to options on offense. Marlow has asserted himself as a key contributor on both ends of the floor. His ability to shoot and defend are only a couple of his premier skills which will headline these Raiders. “Kevin has been outstanding so far, he’s putting up really big numbers and he’s been our go-to guy,” Stein said. Carter has continued to show strides and is letting his athleticism shine, which will allow the Raiders to play small without sacrificing size. “Here at Sonora, what we do is we work on all skills,” Stein said. Steven Murphy for example played center for the Raiders last year, and is now shooting a great percentage from three for Life Pacific. During practice, Carter will occasionally play on the wing making him a defender’s nightmare with his size and strength. Carter played his best game to this point against Canyon High School, when he helped lead the Raiders back from 15 down. He finished the night with 24 points and 16 rebounds. One big difference from this team is their natural lean towards defense. Last year, the Raider’s ability to always knock down a three pointer created space for players to operate against tough defensive teams. “We’re kind of finding out that Unparelleled Real Estate Services... from our Family to You (defense) is where we’re going to Pam Kennedy (562) our 547-4489 have to hang hat this year ... because of (562) our 458-7948 inexperience we’re Terry Kennedy prone to some Chris Kennedy (562)droughts,” 537-8701 Stein said. The Raiders ability to defend against top teams will prove valuable as the season progresses and players find their rhythm. “As long as we can get stops, that’s what is going to keep us in the game,” Stein said. Last year’s success shouldn’t affect this team in a negative way, thanks to the determined approach of Coach Murphy who has turned the page on last season. “Murph has been ultra focused on this season, from the moment we won CIF, he just turned the page, and was ready and excited to coach a new season, because that’s the way he is,” Stein said about Murphy’s approach to the new season. The Raiders play tournaments the remainder of December and start league in January.
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Photos by Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Ready for more: Sonora junior guard Kevin Marlow is becoming the go-to player for the Raiders and is ready to lead the team to battle to defend their league and CIF title.
SONORA RAIDERS 2016 SCHEDULE Tue Jan 5 7:30pm vs. Servite
Fri Jan 29 7:30pm -@La Habra
Wed Jan 13 7:30pm - vs. La Habra
Wed Feb 3 7:30pm vs. Sunny Hills
Fri Jan 15 7:30pm @Sunny Hills
Fri Feb 5 7:30pm @Troy
Wed Jan 20 7:30pm vs. Troy
Sat Feb 6 8:30am @Colony
Fri Jan 22 7:30pm vs. Fullerton
Tue Feb 9 7:30pm @Fullerton
Sat Jan 23 12:00am vs. Claremont
Thu Feb 11 7:30pm vs. Buena Park
Wed Jan 27 7:30pm @Buena Park
SPORTS
13
Lady Raiders look to build on success By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
The Sonora Lady Raiders basketball team will have the benefit of experience and continuity as they try look to build off a strong season last year. The Raiders finished 22-7 with an 8-2 record in the Freeway League and will retain all but one player from their rotation last year. Last year, the Raiders played into the quarterfinal of CIF, falling on the road to Corona Del Mar. “We’re kind of building off of where we left last year. A lot of defensive pressure, though I think we’re a lot better, a lot of offensive execution. We have a lot more experience and maturity,” said head coach Melissa Barajas. They have also improved as athletes and shooters which should help them build off of their progress last year. Many of their players have improved heading into the season by playing in the summer on club teams. In addition, they’ve been working since the end of last season. “They got a lot of great experience, our kids have been working in the weight room since our final game last year, so they’ve all been working hard and are ready to go,” Barajas said. The Raiders upperclassman will be looked upon to be leaders and use
their intangibles to help contribute to the team. “Setting the tone on what we need to do to practice, being mentally tough, being disciplined, and making sure that we are executing and bringing the high energy level all the time,” Barajas said. An early sign that the Raiders are off to a good start came in the championship game against Rowland High School, in the Wilson Ladycat Classic Tournament. They were able to make a quick adjustment during a timeout and come away with the victory. “We were able to regroup. We were able to execute a play down the stretch. They knew exactly what we wanted, and where we were gonna go. It wasn’t new, there are no secrets. They were ready to go,” Barajas said. The Raiders would win that game 36-35. Last year Meghann Henderson played numerous roles for the Raiders, but was often their top ball handler. Jazz Shedd and some of their other ball handlers should allow the Raiders to free up Henderson to become more of an all around threat. “We have a lot of kids who can handle the ball, that have confidence at that position, so it allows us to put her in different spots to utilize her talent,” Barajas said. Laine James showed strong offensive abilities last season as a freshman
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Looking for a great season: Sonora’s Angela Rodriguez will look to lead the Lady Raiders this season. The senior is one of many returning starters this season, which look to provide a lot of experience to the team.
will be pushed to also show that same effort on the defensive end. “We got to get her to focus on both ends of the court, and then she will be the complete player that we know she can be,” Barajas said with a huge smile on her face. The Raiders add two freshman guards to the team who are good shooters and play defense. “We weren’t a great shooting team, so anyone who can come in and help us, spread the floor a little bit more
is going to benefit us,” Barajas said. Those new additions will add to a team confident in the ability of their bench, which will allow the Raiders to play with the same intensity in the first quarter that they would in the fourth. “These kids are ready to go, they’re hungry, they want to get after it,” Barajas said. The Raiders are off to a good start, undefeated through their first six games.
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COME HOME TO HALLMARK
NaFeliz vid ad To All of Our Customers, Thank you! It is your loyalty and continued dining at Señor Campos Restaurant, which made it possible to host the 23rd Annual Breakfast with Santa for the children of the La Habra Boys and Girls Club. Without your continued support, we wouldn’t be able to make sure their Christmas was merry and bright. Stop by so we can wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in person. We pray 2016 is wonderful to each and every one of you. May God bless you all, Maria, LuLu, Daniel and staff
Señor Campos Restaurant 1220 W. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA (562) 694-3614
14
SPORTS
Heroic Highlanders CIF Champs
By Jason Burch La Habra Journal Another miraculous catch on the final play lifts La Habra over San Clemente 3936 to win CIF title for the seventh time in school history on December 4 at Cerritos College. The Tritons scored a go ahead touchdown to make it 36-33 with just 20 seconds left on the clock, forcing the Highlanders to call upon quarterback Eric Barriere to pullout another improbable finish. With the CIF Championship hanging in the balance, “EB3” used his uncanny improvisation skills to elude the pass rush, allowing Prince Ross enough time to get open in the corner of the end zone where Barriere threaded the needle between a cluster of red and white jerseys for the title-winning touchdown as time expired. “Oh my lord that kid is something,” head coach Frank Mazzotta said of his quarterback. Ross said that he knew Barriere was going to make the play and was just trying to get open for him. “I knew Eric could do it, he is amazing,” Ross said. “For him to throw that ball and trust me was great.” After giving up the lead with just seconds to play, prospects looked grim for La Habra. However, drawing upon their experience with a similar last second victory over Los Alamitos early this season, the Highlanders believed they could make it happen. Eric Lancaster-Garcia, who had the game-winning grab against the Griffins in week four, returned the ensuing kickoff
to the 45-yard-line and a personal foul on San Clemente moved the ball to the Triton 40. With time for two plays, Barrier quickly hit Ross on an out for 13 yards to stop the clock and setup the final play— the 27yard touchdown from Barriere to Ross. “This is my first ever championship, it’s a great feeling to win it like this,” Barriere said. Earlier, the Triton defense came up with a big stop with just over three minutes to play, when they deflected Barriere’s pass into the end zone on fourth down, falling incomplete. San Clemente took possession at the 16-yard-line with 3:01 to play and quarterback Jack Sears led them on an 84-yard go-ahead scoring drive. The first half ended with the score knotted at 14-14. C.J. Taylor had a big second half for the Highlanders. He rushed for 101 of his 139 total yards in the second half with a touchdown. Both offenses moved the ball with ease for the majority of the game. The only punts in the game for either side came in the third quarter when the Highlander defense forced the Tritons to punt on back-to-back series. Barriere played a near-flawless game, completing 16-17 passes for 314 yards and four touchdowns, adding 93 yards and one touchdown on the ground. Ross had a big second half with 128 yards and two touchdowns, including an 84-yard catch and run that tied the game 21-21. He finished with 174 yards and three scores.
Photos by Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
The thrill of victory: La Habra’s Prince Ross celebrates after an 84-yard game-tying touchdown against the San Clemente Tritons. The Highlanders won the game, 39-36, and the CIF title at Cerritos College.
Air time: La Habra receiver Amon Fellows jumps to grab a pass by Eric Barriere in the Highlander’s CIF victory over San Clemente 39-36 December 4 at Cerritos College. Fellows finished with 140 yards receiving.
Amon Fellows was Barriere’s go-to receiver in the first half, racking up 101 of his 140 yards, including a 30-yard touchdown on the opening drive. The Highanders turned to running back C.J. Taylor to carry the load in the second half. After a slow start and an early fumble, Taylor began to wear down the Triton defense late, gaining chunks of yards with his patient and churning running style. Taylor gained 101 yards in the second half, and 139 total yards with one score. The Tritons, much like they had all season, relied heavily on the three-pronged rushing attack of Vlad Dzhabiev, Brandon Reaves and quarterback Jack Sears. The trio combined for 319 yards. Reaves added two touchdowns, while Sears and Dzhabiev each scored one. Sears carried the offense down the stretch, with 103 of his 124 rushing yards coming in the second half. The junior quarterback went 11-16 for 125 yards passing with two scores. The Tritons (11-3) final game was a heartbreaker, but the team promises to be strong again next season with Sears returning for his senior season. Head Coach Jaime Ortiz commended his quarterback’s will to win and was proud of the way his team battled.
“It’s a tough loss and words can’t heal what happened here tonight, but 10-15 years from now these kids can say they had a great career here,” Ortiz said. The Highlanders (13-2) captured the school’s seventh CIF Championship with the win. Mazzotta said it was definitely the most dramatic one yet. La Habra lost to Camarillo at the regional championship game 63-49 last week in Camarillo.
Highlander Parade The city is scheduling a parade set for
January 9
at about 10 a.m. Route details to be determined. More information will be coming from the school and city DAN CANNON Since 1975+
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