Raiders run past Fullerton See Sports Page 20
La Habra’s Independent Community Newspaper
www.lahabrajournal.com
No. 95448
February 12, 2015
LH looks to fill city vacancies
Tech savvy students
By Jay Seidel La Habra Journal
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Future scholars: Second graders (from left) Matthew Seidel, Tori Kaufman, Demaris Baez, and Anthony Haro ((Faith Jimenez not pictured) from Ladera Palma Elementary were on hand to present their projects to La Habra City School District faculty, staff and administrators at the district’s annual technology fair last Friday. The fair allows students at the various campuses to share what they are learning in the realm of technology and the statewide common core.
The city has been accepting applications from residents who are interested in filling some of the vacancies on two of the city’s standing committees. There are two seats available on the Planning Commission. The commission serves in an advisory capacity to the City Council on matters pertaining to planning and zoning, land use permits and the General Plan. Members meet twice a month in the four year term. There are three seats open on the Community Services Commission The Community Services Commission serves in an advisory capacity to the City Council on matters pertaining to recreation, culture, child development, youth and senior programs,and social services. Its members are in a three year term and meet once a month. Interested residents should contact the City Clerk’s Office located at city hall. (562) 383-4030.
Heights residents voice opinions on Measure A at special meeting LA HABRA HEIGHTS
By Daniel Hernandez La Habra Journal
Supporters of both sides on Measure A, or the Healthy City Initiative, spoke loud and long at the La Habra Heights City Council special meeting. They were using up the last opportunity to speak in the council chambers. In the special February Council meeting, which is also the last council meeting before the March 3 election, La Habra Heights residents poured just under three hours of public comments that were specifically about ballot initiative Measure A. City council members listened patiently to numerous concerns about what has been dubbed the “anti-oil initiative” and about the possible oil drilling project located on an 8-acre parcel of land at 2490 Las Palomas Drive in La Habra Heights, which is owned by the Southern California Gas Co. and leased to Matrix Oil. “That was the longest public comments since I’ve been here,” said LHH Mayor Brian Bergman before he dismissed the meeting for a short break.
After defending itself against two separate lawsuits regarding Measure A and spending about $62 thousand in the process, the city council heard opinions for Measure A regarding possible fracking, increased trucking through the city, decreased property value and possible chemical contamination in the air. And they also heard from the No on Measure A campaign—possible lawsuits can be the demise of the city, no proof that oil drilling or fracking is dangerous or the words in Measure A are too broad and can cost the city existing revenue by inadvertently halting current oil drilling operations. Some speakers also accused the drafters of Measure A of being outsiders of the city. “Measure A does not stop existing oil operations, period,” Michael Hughes, Heights Oil Watch member and LH Heights resident who helped draft The Healthy City Initiative, stated after resenting being called an outsider.
Last year the Heights Oil Watch or the HOW group formed and made the public aware of a proposed oil drilling project that has been brewing since 2010 and also drafted what has been dubbed the anti-oil drilling initiative, garnering enough signatures in a short amount of time to place it on the March ballot. Californians for Energy Independence, a group representing the oil industries in the state, filed a campaign finance report with the city stating it spent about $200,000 on funding the lawsuits to change the ballot title initiative, The Whittier Daily News reported on February 6. While the actual language on the initiative remained the same as originally drafted, a Los Angeles Superior court judge eventually only mandated changing the word “any” to “certain” in the final language of the title. A sample ballot is now available at city hall with the initiative. City Councilman Kyle Miller wished the HOW group would have let the process play out with the Environmental Impact Report in order to
hear from more experts, and he stated that the initiative is too broad and can possibly stop existing oil operations. “I wish this initiative was only about fracking,” Miller said after pointing out what he calls myths about the Matrix Oil project and Measure A.
WHAT ’ S INSIDE THIS ISSUE En Espanol! Inmersion dual en Arbolita Elementary
La Habra Lions make pasta to help senior meals FEATURES PAGE 10
NEWS PAGE 8
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Saturday, February 14, 2015
La Habra Historical Museum is open on Saturday’s from 12-4 p.m.201 E. La Habra Blvd. (just North of the library).
Sunday, February 15, 2015
The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley will be playing at the La Mirada theatre today at 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. For more information call (562) 944-9801 or visit www.lamiradatheatre.com.
Monday, February 16, 2015 Presidents Day
Friendship Square Quilt Meeting is being held tonight at 6:45 p.m. at United Methodist Church-631 N. Euclid St., La Habra. Guests are welcome to attend. For more information visit www.fsqg.org. Night Owl Special at La Habra 300 Bowl. Monday-Thursday from 6-11 p.m. unlimited bowling with shoe rental for only $10.
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Homework Help at the La Habra Library Monday-Thursday from 4-5:30 p.m. High school students volunteer to help elementary students with their homework. Parents need to register their student at their first session.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015 Flag Raising Ceremony at ChickFil-A this morning at 7:30 a.m.
Saturday, February 21, 2015
Check out the 9th Annual Literacy Fair that takes place today from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Las Lomas Elementary School-301 W. Las Lomas Dr. This is perfect for kids from birth to 7 years old. Free books, story time, face painting, prizes, healthy snacks, painting and more! Join this guided easy 2 mile hike. Learn how ever yday items and medicines were created from their surrounding environment. No Dogs. Rain Cancels. Hike is from 9-11 a.m. and meets at Sycamore Canyon
NEWS BRIEFS
Trailhead-5040 Workman Mill Rd., Whittier. Whittier Area Genealogical Society will be holding their monthly meeting today at the Whittier Masonic Lodge, 7604 Greenleaf Avenue, Whittier. A Morning Class will be taught by WAGS President Rick Frohling at 10:30 am. His topic will be “Newspaper research Using Online Sources.” A beginner Workshop will take place at 10:30 am. The 1:00 pm afternoon meeting will feature Linda Serna whose topic will be “Dispelling the Myths and Finding Your Family.”Visitors are always welcome to attend. For more information visit the WAGS website at hhtp://www. cagenweb.com/kr/wags or call Rosie at 562-698-1457.
Monday, February 23, 2015
La Habra City Planning Commission meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
State of the Community Address and Breakfast from 7-9:15 a.m. at Westridge Golf Club-1400 S. La Habra Hills Drive. Admission is $25. For questions or to register for the event call The Chamber at (562) 697-1704
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Quarter crazy: La Habra Chamber of Commerce CEO raises his hands in excitement at the chamber’s annual Quartermainina event held Tuesday evening at the community center.
Lowell Joint Foundation honors Founding Member
A founding member of the Lowell Joint Education Foundation, Mr. Fred Schambeck, will be honored on March 16th at the Friendly Hills Country Club in recognition of his many years of community service and support of the foundation. Schambeck has lived in the Lowell Joint District for over 30 years and has seen his three daughters, as well as a grandchild, attend these schools. Schambeck received his bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Latin American Studies from USC and his master’s degree from Pepperdine University in Business Administration. He has served as a Lowell Joint School District board member
since 1983 and is currently an estate planner. Schambeck’s dedication to the district has prompted him to serve as the Lowell Joint School District President on multiple occasions. The Foundation was established in 2005 and provides financial support to various academic programs including Academic Excellence Day, technology grants for schools, and the after-school sports programs at Rancho-Starbuck Intermediate School. This funding allows for academic enrichment to communities in the Lowell Joint School District. To donate to the foundation or for more information, go to www. ljefonline.org. —by Rachel Ramos Unparelleled Real Estate Services... from our Family to You
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Email: news@lahabrajournal. com www.e d wa rd j o n e s .co m
Markets Change. Are You Prepared? When you stop and look back at what’s happened in the markets, it’s easy to realize how quickly things can change. That’s why we should schedule some time to discuss how the market can impact your financial goals. We can also conduct a portfolio review to help you decide if you should make changes to your investments and whether you’re on track to reach your goals.
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal Future Royalty: The finalists for Miss La Habra 2015 gathered for a welcome luncheon at El Cholo last week. The Miss La Habra Competition will be held March 21.
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OPINION
COMMENTARY
Did you know... By Sue Thompson La Habra Journal
The Lincoln School was built in 1923 on the east side of Walnut Street south of Whittier Boulevard. On July 6, 1923 the cornerstone was laid and a sealed copper box filled with historical items was placed inside. The Grand Masonic Lodge was in charge of the ceremony to dedicate the cornerstone and the new school. In 1968, the Lincoln School building was demolished for the construction of the La Habra City School District main office building. The cornerstone was preserved at that time and remains intact. It is located just inside the main doors on the southwest corner of the building. A plaque marks the location and reads “1923 1968” and also has a Masonic symbol on it. Recently the district office building did some remodeling inside. The original cornerstone was uncovered and the copper box was located inside, still sealed. Also, a program from the 1968 dedication ceremony was found. The La Habra City School District will continue to preserve the cornerstone and copper box. The plan is to open the copper box on the 100 year anniversary in 2023 and reveal the items inside.
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: Sarah Fenton, Daniel Hernandez, Christina Ledesma, Yajira Perez, Erik Markus Photographers: Nicole Anderson, Jenny Montes de Oca
Contact: news@lahabrajournal.com sports@lahabrajournal.com
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La Habra’s futures past
Just another interesting piece of the history about where we live, work and enjoy being a part of the La Habra community. Special thanks to: Susan Belenardo, Ed.D., Superintendent, La Habra City School District. Source: La Habra The Pass Through The Hills, Esther R. Cramer, Sultana Press, Fullerton 1969
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As you read the “Did you Know” section next to this commentary, it tells the story of the stumbling onto a bit of history. It was quite a sight to see this block that was pulled out of the wall and a secret storage space was shown that included a copper box that was placed in 1923. It really makes you wonder what is in the box. What did LH area residents feel was so important to seal into the new school building? We won’t know until 2023 when the box is planned to be opened. However, it made me think of other places around the city and witnesses to our communities history. In the library, right next to the racks that hold the La Habra Journal, there is a plate on the floor indicating there is a time capsule in there. I always wonder what they felt was so significant to seal up in the capsule. Will they give us as a look into the past when it’s finally opened? What about the tire tracks on the sidewalk on the south side of La Habra Boulevard, near Casa Adelita. Well, those tracks are from a model A or T vehicle that was coming out of the car dealership that was located right there. Nothing has been touched, so it has kept
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its look and remains a conversation starter. It really is amazing the historical stories this community provides. The history tells the story of growth and development of the city. It’s amazing what cities can hold. This is why the discussion of a relocation of the La Habra city hall across La Habra Boulevard needs to include a look at our past while moving forward to the future. The location is actually the “birth place of La Habra.” So there is a connection to the history of the community. Developers for the city should consider the city’s history and look to incorporate into the design of any new development. Also, if and when they decide to tear down or remodel the current civic center, I’m wondering what other things might be unearthed. I’m sure that since there is the time capsule I mentioned earlier, there must be some history to be unearthed in the walls and nooks of the city hall. Suzette Eschberger, who oversees the La Habra Historical Museum should be ready for a potential influx of historic items headed her way. —The Editor
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LOCAL NEWS
Lions collecting old eye wear to help others gain vision The La Habra Host Lions Club is collecting used eyeglasses for the millions of low-income residents in Southern California. Now through May 30, used prescription glasses, as well as sunglasses, can be donated at 14 locations around La Habra including Hometown Buffet, the Community Center and the Chamber of Commerce. On January 30, 150 pairs of glasses were collected at the Christ Lutheran Church, a huge achievement for the La Habra Host Lions Club and for the low-income community. The exact number of donated eyeglasses to date was unavailable, but program coordinator Dawn Holthouser said that this year’s goal is to collect 1,500 pairs. Children and seniors are the two main groups that can benefit most from the “Recycle for Sight” campaign because of budget limitations on both sides of the spectrum. When parents cannot afford to purchase a pair of glasses for their children, school can become challenging. “If school-aged kids don’t have the means to purchase eyeglasses, their schoolwork is going to suffer,” eyeglass collection chair Dawn Holthouser said. Adults can also be affected by not being able to afford a pair of eyeglasses. As a person ages, so does their vision and the ability to see clearly. Routine or leisure activities such as
watching a favorite show on television or reading a magazine can be difficult, while driving to work can become dangerous not only for the person who is unable to see clearly, but for the other drivers. Work quality can also be compromised for those who are required to work on a computer for hours at a time. According to the Lions Club website, once the glasses are received, they are cleaned and sorted and are then stored in a warehouse until they are requested for an eyeglass dispensing mission, where hundreds of people line up for an eye exam and a pair of prescription glasses. “If you are in doubt whether or not the glasses are useable, donate it anyway. If the lenses cannot be refurbished, we can always use the frames,” Holthouser said. Instead of letting an old pair of glasses collect dust, members of the community are encouraged to “give the gift of sight” to the less fortunate and donate any glasses that are no longer being used. Other items that can be recycled along with the glasses include used hearing aids and empty computer ink cartridges. For more information, please visit www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/lahabrahost or call Lion Dawn Holthouser at (714) 878-5206 to schedule a pick-up for used eyeglasses.
Dyers celebrate 60 years and new chapter in their lives La Habra residents Edwin L. Dyer and Jane K. Dyer are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary this Valentines Day, February 14th. The couple met when their own siblings married (Jane’s older brother James G. Bliss married Edwin’s younger sister Miriam L. Bliss—also residing in La Habra) in San Diego, while serving in a branch of the Army during the Korean War time. Edwin was serving in the same Army military service unit, stationed in Panama, as his sister’s husband, who also happened to be Edwin’s commanding officer, James G. Bliss, 1st Lieutenant. While Edwin and James were on leave from Panama to San Diego, Edwin and Jane met and then corresponded by letters until Edwin’s return. They were married in 1955 and Edwin and Jane have been La Habra residents, residing in the same home they purchased new in 1960. They are the parents of five children, all graduates of Sonora High School, including Dwayne L. Dyer (Melody) of Highland, Utah; Laurie J. Dyer (Robert) Casper of Yorba Linda, Emery B. Dyer (Jayne) of Yorba Linda, Monroe E. Dyer of La Habra and Sarah J. Dyer (Kari) Laitinen of Yorba Linda.
Edwin and Jane Dyer They have 15 grand-children and 5 great-grandchildren. Edwin has owned and continues to operate Dyer Optical Company located in La Habra since July 4th, 1979.
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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) 11 a.m. (Korean) 1 p.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 Bible Study – Mondays at 10:30 am 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. Rehoboth Reformed Church 501 South Idaho Street #120 La Habra (626) 820-9390 Service: Sunday 10 a.m.
INSPIRATIONAL CORNER
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By Dennis Laherty, the Co-Pastor of Emanuel Lutheran Church, La Habra
I learned about Facebook friends over 50 years ago not from Mark Zuckerberg but from Sister Mary Theresa. It was this time of year in the fourth grade at St. Paul’s Catholic School in San Francisco. The class was informed by Sister Theresa that every student would make a Valentine card for every other student, write something nice in it and sign it. Each student would also be making a pouch out of construction paper and affixing it to the back of their seats. On the morning of February 14, when each student arrived in class they would then place their Valentine card in the pouch of the recipient. As the day progressed students who finished their schoolwork on time would be taking the cards out of the pouch and intently reading who it was from and what was said. At first, when instructions were given it seemed like an overwhelming task. But then as a shy fourth grader the benefit became obvious. I could write something appropriate for Valentine’s Day and give it to a girl who I otherwise would never have approached. It all worked out very well. Linda King was watched all day so that I would know when she read my card with the subtle, affectionate sentiment. It was clear that I wasn’t the only student using the task on this day in this way. Students could be seen watching other students and acknowledging the card with a smile or a quick glance. I don’t know if anybody in the class remained a best friend forever. But on Valentine’s Day everybody befriended everybody else. It was always a good day. This year I won’t be giving many cards at all. I do know that I will freely tap the “like” icon on Facebook and maybe even send a message. By days end I won’t need to look in a pouch, only look at the comments my friends have posted. It will be a good day. 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. Vineyard North Orange County 615 S. Palm St La Habra (562) 697-4600 Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.
The Warehouse Foursquare Church 16200 E. Amber Valley Dr. Whittier (562) 690-5109 Services: Sunday 9 a.m., 11 a.m.
Is your religious center or place of worship not on here? Did your services change? Having a wedding? Let us know. news@lahabrajournal.com
Page 6
LA HABRA JOURNAL
February 12, 2015
City Communicator Enjoy Coffee with a Cop The La Habra Police Department invites you to join them, along withyour neighbors, for coffee and conversation, as part of a new program, “Coffee with a Cop”. “We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns or simply get to know our officers,” said Police Chief Jerry Price. “These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships.” Coffee with a Cop is usually held once a month; this month’s meeting will be on Saturday, February 21st, 8:00-10:00 a.m at the Corner Bakery Cafe, 1040 W. Imperial Hwy. For more information about the program, please contact Lt. Mel Ruiz at 562-383-4300 or email him at mruiz@lahabraca.gov.
La Habra Races Return The City of La Habra will hold its annual La Habra 5K/10K Run/ Walk, which also includes a 1K Kiddy Run and a 50-Yard Diaper Dash, on Saturday, March 21st. The event will be held at the La Habra Marketplace, located at Imperial Hwy. and Beach Blvd. Registration opens at 6:00 a.m. The 50-Yard Diaper Dash (open to ages three to five years) begins at 7:15 a.m.; and the Kiddy Run (open to ages six through nine years) begins at 7:20 a.m. The 5K/10K Run/Walk begins at 7:30 a.m., and awards for 5K winners will be presented at 8:15 a.m., followed by awards for 10K winners at 8:30 a.m. The course is a semichallenging 5K loop (the 10K consists of two laps) and runs through the heart of La Habra. All runners will receive runner goody bags. The race features a health and fitness expo, medals to the top five runners in each age group division, and timing and finish line management. The La Habra Active Day Camp staff will host its Bamboo Kids Club for kids ages two to 13 years for adults who would like to participate in the race, but need childcare for their kids. Register by mail or in person at the La Habra Community Services Department, 101 W. La Habra Boulevard, (562) 383-4200 (phone). In addition, online registration is available; an additional service fee will be incurred when registering online. The cost to register for the 5K is $30 through March 13th and $35 after that date and on race day. The cost for the 10K is $35 through March 13th and $40 after that date or on race day. The cost for the 50-Yard Diaper Dash and the 1K Kiddy Run is $15 through March 13th and $20 after that date and on race day. Running clubs with 10 or more runners will receive a discount. For more information, please call the Community Services Department at (562) 383-4200.
City Numbers
To Remember
Animal Control: Beautification Committee: Building & Safety: Child Development: Children’s Museum: City Clerk’s Office: City Hall: City Manager’s Office: Comm. Preserv. Hotline: Community Services: Engineering Dept.: Fire Department:
* All numbers are 562 area code unless otherwise specified.
A Publication of the City of
383-4352 383-4010 383-4116 383-4270 383-4236 383-4030 383-4000 383-4010 383-4143 383-4200 383-4151 691-4692
Express Bus Route Changes Provide Improved Service Beginning Monday, February 9th, the La Habra Express added an opposite directional bus route that will make travel much more efficient for its users. Rather than both buses traveling in the same counter clockwise direction, Route 103 A now travels in the opposite direction and is called Route 103. The majority of the route’s stops remain in service, with the exception of stop No. 4312 at Beach Blvd. and La Habra Blvd., which will be discontinued, and stop No. 4386 at Lambert Rd. and Idaho St. will be adjusted, but remain in the same area. Additional stops may be added. Route 103B, which travels to Fullerton, in addition to circulating through La Habra, will continue to circulate in a counter clockwise direction with an added stop near Westridge Plaza. La Habra’s Express buses accomodate 23 riders, with room for two bicycles and two wheelchairs. Service is available Monday-Friday, 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m., and bus fare is $1 each way. In addition to a stop at Fullerton Junior College (Route 103B only), both buses stop at Sonora and La Habra High Schools and near Whittier Christian High School. There are also free WiFi and USB charge ports on the buses. For more information about La Habra’s Express Bus service, please visit www.GoPlacesSeeFaces.com or click on that link on the City’s website, www.lahabraca.gov.
14th Annual Spring Family Eggstravaganza La Habra’s 14th annual Eggstravaganza will be held on Saturday, April 4th, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., at the softball fields at La Bonita Park, 1440 W. Whittier Blvd. Activities will include an Eggs-Treme Kid Zone, with games, crafts, inflatables, balloon twisters, live DJ and more. The La Habra Girls Softball Association will sell refreshments at the Snack Shack. To add to the excitement, eggs for the egg hunt will be dropped by a helicopter! Egg hunts will be held for specific age groups at the following times: 9:15 a.m.: 0-2 & 3-4 year olds, 9:35 a.m.: 5-6 year olds, 9:50 a.m.: 7-8 year olds, 10:05 a.m. 9-10 & 11-12 year olds, 10:20 a.m.: teens & adults. As in the past, the La Habra Family Resource Center’s Community Resource Fair will be part of the Eggstravaganza. This year’s theme is Strengthening Families, and there will be 30-plus organizations participating. Visitors to the Fair will be able to participate in family activities, gather information, enter into the raffle for prizes and much more. The sponsors for this year’s event are Waste Management, Freedom House, Institute for Healthcare Advancement, and La Habra Family Resource Center. For more information about the Eggstravaganza, please contact the Community Services Department at (562) 383-4200, visit the City’s website at www.lahabraca.gov or find us on Facebook, La Habra Recreation Division.
Graffiti Hotline: 383-4220 La Habra Shuttle: 866-557-7433 Library: 694-0078 NOC Youth Center: 383-4227 Personnel Services: 383-4079 Planning Dept: 383-4100 Police Department: 383-4300 Public Works: 383-4170 Traffic Office: 383-4151 Water & Sewer Billing: 383-4070
Web Site: www.lahabraca.gov
Your City Council: Michael Blazey, Mayor James Gomez, Mayor Pro Tem Rose Espinoza Tom Beamish Tim Shaw La Habra City Hall 201 E. La Habra Boulevard La Habra, CA 90631 Telephone: 383-4000 FAX: 383-4474 *The Council meets the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall.
PERSONAL FINANCE
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Caring for your credit score By Timothy McAdam Vice President, Pacific Community Credit Union
A credit score is a three digit number calculated from data found in your credit report and is one factor used by lenders to determine your creditworthiness for a mortgage, loan or credit card. Your score can affect whether or not you are approved as well as what interest rate you are charged. It can also be used by employers when you apply for a new job and by auto insurance companies to determine your ability to pay premiums. But what makes up your credit score? Everyone’s score is made up of five main criteria: your payment history, capacity, length of credit, accumulation of debt and your mix of credit. Payment histor y determines roughly 35% of your score and is based on whether you pay on time or have current or previous late payments. More weight is placed on your most recent payment history. Capacity is roughly 30% of your score and is determined by how much of your credit limit is available to you. For example, if your credit card limit is $5,000 and you have a balance of $4,500, your score will be lower than if you had a balance of $1,000. The rule of thumb is to keep your balances at 30% or less of your available credit. Length of credit is based on how
long you have had credit, even if it is paid off. Length of credit accounts for roughly 15% of your score. For example, your score will typically be higher if you have used credit over for 12 years than the score of someone who has never had a loan. Accumulation of debt is how much new debt you opened in the last twelve to eighteen months. It accounts for roughly 10% of your score and is determined by the number of credit inquiries you had in the last 12-18 months and the opening dates of your loans. The mix of credit represents approximately 10% of your score and is determined by how much of your debt is installment (car loans, home loans) or revolving (credit cards, lines of credit). There are several actions that could hurt your credit score. Missing payments is the number one factor that can lower your score. Regardless of the amount of the missed payment, it can take up to 24 months to restore your credit score with one late payment. Maxing out your credit cards affects capacity, which can limit your score. Shopping for new credit such as opening new department score cards to get a one-time discount, or opening lots of new accounts in a short time frame can be negative factors. Not all is doom and gloom when it comes to your credit score. You
State of the Community Breakfast Address with
Mayor Michael Blazey Wednesday February 25, 2015
Mayor Michael Blazey, Ed. D.
Reports from City Hall
Private Education with Carl Martinez, Head of Schools Whittier Christian High School Cultural Arts Development in La Habra, Regeanie Corona
Economic Development Ad Hoc Committee update February 25, 2015 Reception starts at 7:00am Sponsored by
La Habra Area Chamber of Commerce
Pre-registration required $25 online www.lahabrachamber.com or call (562) 697-1704 ● Westridge Golf Club 1400 South Hills Dr. La Habra CA 90631
A La Habra Area Chamber of Commerce event
Shutterstock
Credit Check: To keep proper financial health, it is important to strive for and maintain a good credit score. Individuals should do what they can to make payments on time and watch debt.
can improve your score without gimmicks or resorting to “credit repair” companies that often don’t really help improve your score. Number one is to make all payments on time, even if it is only the minimum amount. Continue to make payments on time helps because older late payments become less significant over time. Paying off or paying down credit cards helps because you reduce the capacity used, which improves your score.
Contrary to much of the advice out there, don’t close your credit cards, just limit or stop using them. Closing the cards reduces overall available credit limit, which could decrease capacity, which would lower your score. Combining your revolving debt like credit cards into a debt consolidation loan also improves your score because you increase capacity and improve your credit mix.
Incoming
Transitional Kindergarten & Kindergarten PARENT MEETING Hosted by
Lowell Joint School District “A Tradition of Excellence”
Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. Multiuse Room at Rancho-Starbuck Intermediate School 16430 Woodbrier Avenue, Whittier **This meeting is for parents only** Childcare is NOT available All elementary schools received the California Distinguished School Award
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En Español
Clases de ‘inmersión dual’ va bien en La Habra Por Christie Garcia La Habra Journal
Se dice que el mejor tiempo para que los niños aprendan otro idioma es durante la infancia. Seria ideal que las escuelas de primaria tomaran ventaja sobre eso y les enseñe otro idioma durante este tiempo. Eso es lo que esta haciendo Arbolita Elementary School en La Habra y lo continuará este septiembre. La escuela tiene dos clases de kindergarten que son parte del programa de Inmersión Dual, que significa que se enseñara ingles y español a niños de cualquier raza. “Otros países han promovido la idea que los niños deben de estar hablando más de un idioma, y aprendiendo otro también. Eso es lo que estamos haciendo aquí”, dijo Rosa Murillo, la directora de Arbolita Elementary School. “Yo creo que estamos tomando pasos importantes para preparar nuestros estudiantes para estar listos y competitivos para el futuro.” La materia académica de un día regular en estas clases es enseñada 80 por ciento en español y 20 por ciento en ingles. Cada año agregarán gradualmente más ingles. Para el cuarto grado, el día será 50 por ciento ingles y 50 por ciento español y así será hasta el octavo grado. El 80 por ciento que se enseñara al principio es porque habrá más niños que solamente hablan español o lo dominan mejor que niños que no sepan hablar español. Según el Census más reciente, el del 2010, la población latina de La Habra esta a un 57 por ciento. El
demográfico de Arbolita refleja esos números. La mayoría de los estudiantes en Arbolita son latinos. Pero en las clases de inmersión dual esta muy dividió. Un tercio solamente hablan español, otro tercio hablan los dos y otro tercio hablan ingles. “La clase es una mezcla de niños diferentes y para que el programa funcione bien necesitamos un grupo así”, dijo Murillo. En general, California tiene una a población grande de Latinos, en esa gente están incluidos niños que solamente hablan español. Por esa razón las escuelas han tenido que empezar programas para enseñar a estos niños ingles. Pero, debido a diferentes razones— ya sea, porque fue muy caro, no había suficientes maestros, o hasta por racismo, los programas que eran dedicados a clases bilingües fueron prohibidas en 1998 gracias a la Proposición 227. Esta proposición puso en efecto clases especiales para estudiantes que no hablaban ingles y no se mezclaban con los otros niños hasta que aprendían ingles. Lo malo de esa situación es que mientras unos niños se hacían bilingües, los otros no tenían esa oportunidad. Ahora, esa idea sea reformado y ahora escuelas como Arbolita quieren beneficiar a todos. El problema más grande que se enfrontaron las escuelas gracias a la Proposición 227 es que los maestros que tenían enseñando ingles no eran los mejores en todo lo que hacían. Lo mismo paso cuando había clases bilingües. Esto es algo que Arbolita han teni-
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal Inmersión Dual: Yo creo que estamos tomando pasos importantes para preparar nuestros estudiantes para estar listos y competitivos para el futuro, dijo Rosa Murillo, la directora de Arbolita Elementary School, está supervisando el nuevo programa de educación bilingüe.
do en mente y lo han evitado. “La gente que venian a ensenar no eran de la calidad mas alto”, dijo Murillo. “Si esto es hecho bien, entonces esta hecho maravillosamente y así tienes altos niveles de éxito”. La superintendente de Distritio Escolar de La Habra, Teresa Egan, ha sido testigo de este éxito, igual como la directora de Arbolita. “Todo lo que hemos estudiado nos ha enseñado que cuando niños estudian dos diferentes idiomas cuando son chicos, ellos van a ser mejores estudiantes a lo largo de su carera académica”, dijo Egan. Aparte de La Habra, hay programas de inmersión dual en Anaheim y Long Beach. Los estudiantes en este programa en Long Beach están tomando el exam de “AP,” que usualmente se toma durante el ultimo año de high school si quiere el estudiante, en el octavo grado. Y lo están pasando. Ahora las high schools son las que se encuentran con problemas cuando no saben que nivel de clases de español les pueden ofrecer a esos estudiantes cuando llegan ahí. Estos estudiantes están saliendo mejor en la escuela comparados a los estudiantes que solamente hablan un idioma,¨ dijo Murillo. ¨Estamos hablando de poder leer, escribir, entender y hablar en un nivel muy alto.¨ A lo mejor papas de niños chicos no se han dado de estos resultados
exactos pero si se deben de imaginar de todo los beneficios. Arbolita es una escuela chica, especialmente comparada a otras escuelas en La Habra. Pero ahora ha tenido mucho éxito y muchos hablan de esta escuela gracias a su programa de inmersión dual. Desde que la escuela empezó el programa este año, mucha gente hasta muchos que ni viven en La Habra - ha querido traer a sus niños ahí. “Hemos visto que casi todos los niños nuevos que vienen a la escuela quieren ser parte del programa de inmersión dual”, dijo Murillo. “Hay tanta interés que a lo mejor vamos a tener que tener listas de espera para el programa. No he visto una reacción negativa, he visto mucha gente que esta muy interesada.” Arbolita no ha terminado ni su primer año haciendo este programa pero basado en el éxito y interés que ahí, el programa continuara. “Este es nuestro primer año haciendo esto. Nosotros estamos aprendiendo en el camino y aprenderemos como seguimos”, dijo Egan. ¨No voy a decir que somos expertos, no lo hemos hecho por 25 años como otros, pero hemos tenido una reacción buena.¨ Para mas información, llame a Arbolita Elementary School al (562) 690-2352.
No manejes, subete al La Habra Express—gratis Por Christie Garcia La Habra Journal
Tome ventaja de viajes de autobús gratis esta semana hasta este viernes. La Habra Express ofrece viajes a diferentes lugares de La Habra y hasta Fullerton de lunes a viernes entre 5:50 a.m. a 6:20 p.m. pero solamente esta semana serán gratis. Después de esta semana los viajes costaran $1. Los autobúses son manejados por OCTA y es un servicio adicional de sus paradas en La Habra que ya existen. Los pases para viajes en esos autobúses también aplican para los de La Habra Express. Desde este Lunes la ruta de los autobúses de La Habra Express ha cambiado y ahora tiene mas paradas. Esta nueva ruta, llamada Ruta 103, va por todo La Habra y también va a
Fullerton. Tiene paradas en Sonora High School, La Habra High School, el Museo de Niños en La Habra, entre otros, y en Fullerton, St. Jude Medical Center, la estación de Amtrak y Fullerton College. Cada autobús tiene 23 asientos y dos lugares accesibles para sillas de ruedas. La Habra Express también les ofrece a sus pasajeros Wi-Fi gratis y conexiones de USB para cargar aparatos electrónicos. Si quisiera saber los próximos tres tiempos de llegada para una parada en particular, mande un mensaje de texto a 628246 que diga “Bus stop # ruta #” según su parada deseada. Para mas información sobre las rutas, mapas de las paradas y mas, visita www.GoPlacesSeeFaces.com o llama 562-383-4010.
FEATURES
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Author discusses raising bilingual children By Brianna Flores La Habra Journal
Parents are often unsure of which language to speak to their children in when a language other than English is dominant in a household. Popular myths can discourage parents from raising their child to be bilingual or multilingual, but in a global economy, fluency in more than one language has been proven to be advantageous. On February 7, The La Habra Library invited members of the community to learn about raising children in a multi-lingual home from early childhood learning expert Faith Polk and author of “Raising Bilingual Children.” Polk explained that there are many myths surrounding the idea of raising a multilingual child, including the misconception that speaking multiple languages to a child will confuse him or her and that speaking to a child in a language other than English will cause difficulties for him or her at school. On the contrary, learning more than one language at a young age has been scientifically proven to be beneficial. Polk listed six advantages that result from learning multiple languages: curricular advantage, cognitive advantage, cash, cultural, character and communication. Children who are multilingual have better self-regulation and listening skills, according to Polk. She explained that self-regulation skills give children the ability to be in control of their behavior and are better prepared to learn at school, giving them the advantage over monolingual children.
“A great deal of research has been done to determine why multilingual children have better listening skills compared to their counterpart, and research shows that it is because they need to listen carefully to which language is being spoken and then think about how to respond,” Polk said. “For those who are at the other end of the spectrum, there is a lower incidence of Alzheimer’s [disease] in people who are multilingual, and that’s because of the brain structure. Languages are processed in different parts [of the brain],” Polk added. There are also disadvantages to not maintaining a home or native language. One of the major consequences Polk emphasized was losing the ability to communicate with family. This affects relationships between family and community members. “Kids join gangs because they are looking for a place to belong. If you have strong family language and are able to communicate, you are more likely to have your child feel part of your family and your community and not go out and seek another community to which to belong,” Polk said. Principal of Arbolita Elementary School, Rosamaria Murillo, shared the success of a new bilingual program. Arbolita Elementary School is the first and only school in La Habra to offer a Dual Language Immersion program, where students enrolled in the program are taught in Spanish 80 percent of the day and in English the remaining 20percent. Although the program began just last year, Murillo said that there has been a positive response from the community. An informational meeting earlier
Brianna Flores/La Habra Journal Helping success: Author Faith Polk discusses the benefits of teaching children another language from her book “Raising Bilingual Children,” at the La Habra Branch Library last week.
this month even attracted parents from other districts seeking information on how to transfer their child into the program. Murillo said that she is unsure if the program will be extended to other schools in the district or if it will be exclusive to Arbolita Elementary School. Author Mariatere Rodriguez Bellas offered advice and explained the cultural, academic and career benefits of being multilingual. In, “Raising Bilingual Children,” parents can find advice, direct resources to programs,
websites and articles, and read personal stories from other parents. “Being fluent in two or more languages provides children with the tools and the skills they need to compete with others [in a global economy],” Bellas said. “Raising Bilingual Children,” is available as an e-book in English and in Spanish at Barnes & Noble and on Amazon.com. Bellas’ second book about raising bicultural children will be released later this year.
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300 W Las Lomas Drive La Habra, CA 90631
501 S. Idaho St., STE 300 & 350 La Habra, CA 90631
Ca l l N ow ! 8 4 4 - 8 8 - E N RO L L
FEATURES 10 Lions cook up pasta and fun for senior charity
to resume the Mondays and are still going strong now.” La Habra Lions Club President Elizabeth Steves was also inspired by the impact the club is making in the lives of the senior citizens by funding their noon meals and activities through Pasta Fest. “It’s so heartwarming to see that there’s somewhere that they can get out of their home and go and socialize and have a nice time,” Steves said. Also in attendance was Sandi Baltes, director of the La Habra Collaborative, a catalyst for non-profits, service groups, businesses, schools and faith-based groups to unite under one umbrella. After coming for five years, she still appreciates everything the Lions do for the community. “The Lions do such a great job. They do such wonderful things and it’s such a good cause,” Baltes said. The final result could not happen without the members working behind the scenes, including the rowdy group of men occupying the kitchen. Upon entering, one could see the group of a dozen men moving cohesively to make the pasta with all the fixings. “[The best part] is the camaraderie between all the Lions. We have fun,” member Dan Singer said. “We’re working to make money for the seniors and that’s the whole point.”
By Ashleigh Fox La Habra Journal
Photos by Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Dancing queens: Members of the La Habra Chamber of Commerce joined members of the Corona Dance studio to perform a routine to entertain the crowd at Saturday’s Pasta Fest.
Checking the pasta: La Habra Lions member John Creed helps prepare the meals for the annual Pasta Fest Saturday.
Birthday Boy: The entire crowd gathered at the annual Pasta Fest wished Mr. Bustos a happy 94th birthday.
The annual Pasta Fest, hosted by the La Habra Lions Club, celebrated its fifth year of festivities on Friday, Feb. 7 at the La Habra Community Center. Co-chairpersons for the event were Buck and Veronica Hannah, who will be celebrating their first year as club members this month. Both expressed the joy they received when asking local members of the community for donations. “What’s nice is to get out in the public, my local public, and even though some people didn’t or couldn’t donate to this function, they donate to something in La Habra,” Buck said. “That’s what it’s about.” The room filled with both members of the La Habra community as well as Lions Club members visiting from Newport Beach and surrounding areas. In addition to a pasta dinner, guests were able to bid in the silent auction, purchase raffle tickets from the Miss La Habra Princesses or take a turn on the dance floor. “This is the first time we have ever been to Pasta Fest so we are pretty excited about that. Well, the pasta itself,” Miss La Habra Princess Alondra Gonzalez said. Although pasta was the main event, everyone was happy to be supporting the La Habra Senior Services, primarily the hot lunches that are served every Monday through Friday at the Community Center. “There was a time due to funding cuts Monday’s were cut out,” said Pete Badame, a 23-year Club member. “Thanks to the Pasta Fest raising money last year, the money that they turned over to the city, they got
Check out a video from the annual Past a Fest at Youtube. com/LaHabraJournal or Scan here:
HILLCREST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS February 20, 21, & 22, 2015 Friday & Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Sunday 11:30 am – 5:00 pm Our 55-year celebration!
Featured Artists: “The Masters – With a Touch of Innovation” Yosh Nakamura (mixed media) Armando Baeza (sculpture) Watercolor and oil paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, pottery, handmade jewelry, glass, woodwork, mixed media, hand-woven clothing, Arts & Crafts Boutique Starving Artist Café sponsored by Lascari’s
10TH ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC LOWELL JOINT EDUCATION FOUNDATION FRIENDLY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB, Whittier, CA
March 16, 2015
2000 West Road, La Habra Heights
9:30 a.m. Registration & Continental Breakfast 11:00 a.m. Shotgun Start Scramble Format 4:30 Auction & 5:00 p.m. Dinner
Sponsorships and Registration Information GOLD Sponsorship
SILVER Sponsorship
BRONZE Sponsorship
Two Teams (8 players) 2 Tee Signs Table Sign $2,500
One Team (4 players) Tee Sign $1,500
One Team (4 players) $1,000
Tee Sign $150
North on Santa Gertrudes from E. Whittier Blvd. in Whittier Overflow parking & free shuttle service info at www.HillcrestFestivalofFineArts.com
Schedule of Events
Individual Golfer $235
Dinner Only $50
Foursome $875
TOURNAMENT Non-‐Golfer Sponsorship $1,000
Eight guests receive lunch and dinner, acknowledgement in program and at the dinner, and sponsorship plaque.
Register online at www.LJEFONLINE.org For more Information Call (562) 902-‐4200
FEATURES Artists, fans ready to converge on annual art festival in LHH
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of the Fine Arts Department at Rio Hondo College. Nakamura has also won numerous awards over the years for his graphics, paintings, and photographs and is represented at the Whittier Art Association and at 562 Creatives. “I am very pleased to be sharing the Featured Artist spot with Armando Baeza,” Nakamura said. This will be Nakamura and Baeza’s second exhibit together, their first being at the Madonna Festival in Los Angeles over 50 years ago. “He is not only a fine artist, but has given back to the community by sharing his art and time with students.” Both artists plan to be with their work in the Featured Artist Gallery for the duration of the festival. Baeza, a graduate of the Otis Institute of Art and Los Angeles native, specializes in bronze sculpturing. He has also done work for 3D animation and toy design companies. His first major public bronze sculpture was created in 1962, and he has continued to work with bronze ever since. A bronze sculpture of his currently resides at the entrance to Pico Rivera City Hall. When asked about the festival, Baeza said, “The sheer size and scope of various artists working in different mediums brought together from surrounding areas for just a few days gives you a sense of the abundance of talent that exists in
By Taylor Engle La Habra Journal
The Hillcrest Festival of Fine Arts will be hosting its 55th annual art showcase the weekend of February 20-22. The event will take place at Hillcrest Congregational Church, 2000 West Rd. in La Habra Heights, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., on Sunday. With free admission and parking, this event has been attracting artists from all over California for years. The event began as a way to show support to local artists and has blossomed over the years. Publicity chair Gail Stier said the first festival had only seven artists in total. This year, there will be over 200 artists and about a dozen artists demonstrating their work, such as weaving, painting, and ceramics. This year’s Featured Artists are Yosh Nakamura, award-winning painter, and Armando Baeza, sculptor, working under the theme “55 Years of Innovation.” USC alumni Nakamura began his involvement with the festival in 1960, where he was the sole demonstrating artist. “You might say I turned out to be a performing artist with a captive audience,” Nakamura said. Aside from being a renowned watercolor painter, Nakamura currently holds the position of Chair
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Preparing for the festival. Hundreds of people are set to attend the 55th annual Hillcrest Fine Arts Festival, which will take place Feb 20-22 at Hillcrest Congressional Church in La Habra Heights.
our local community.” Accompanying the featured artists will be an extensive variety of art for sale, including watercolor and oil paintings, handmade jewelry, ceramics, acrylics, pottery, hand-woven clothing, photography, stained and fused glass, metal and wire sculpture, woodworking, and a gift shop full of handcrafted gifts. In order to have their art on display at the festival, the artists were required to bring their work in ahead of time to be judged by the event committee. If the committee likes their work, the artists are invited to participate. “Chosen artists are put on an invitational list and invited back each consecutive year,” said Stier. Children are also welcome at this festival, as there will be a children’s workshop on Saturday and Sunday.
Every moment delayed could mean a moment missed.
They will be encouraged and provided with the tools necessary to create their own artwork. “Festival attendees can browse, shop, enjoy musical entertainment, and have lunch at the Starving Artist Café, which will be sponsored by Lascari’s,” Stier said. Two stages, one indoor and one outdoor, will feature light background music of the jazz, rock, folk, and Christian variety. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of the overflow parking and free shuttle service on Friday. This will take place at Redemption Hill Church, 16153 Russell St., Whittier. Additionally, there will be shuttle service at La Serna High School for the event on Friday and Saturday.
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Local actor set to perform in new Whittier musical By John Francis La Habra Journal
La Habra resident Justin Patrick Murphy has a co-starring role in Whittier Community Theatre’s production of “Johnny Guitar, The Musical,” which will be opening Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. at the Whittier Center Theater, 7630 S. Washington Ave. Murphy, an award winning actor at Whittier Community Theatre, will be appearing in his 15th production at the theater and will be playing three roles in “Johnny Guitar.” This is the fourth play he has appeared in directed by John Francis, director of “Johnny Guitar.” In addition to Johnny Guitar, Francis has directed Murphy at the La Habra Depot in the award winning “Over The River and Through The Woods,” “The Rainmaker,” “ How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying” and “The Fox On The Fairway.” “Justin is an excellent actor, and has excellent comic timing,” Francis said. “He is a real pleasure to work with.”
“Johnny Guitar, The Musical” won critical acclaim on Off-Broadway and is a spoof on the cult western movie “Johnny Guitar” starring Joan Crawford and Sterling Hayden in 1954. “It is a wonderful musical comedy that has all of the western elements,” Francis said. “There are only two women in the play and seven men, who play all of the characters. It is a real hoot,” said Francis. Directing the music for Johnny Guitar is Kevin Wiley and Shannon Kane is choreographer. Karen Jacobson is producing and Nancy Tyler is assisting Francis. “Johnny Guitar, The Musical” will be performed on consecutive weekends through March 7 starting at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays with one matinée on March 1 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets for the play are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors, students with ID and military. For more information or reservations call (562) 696-0600 or visit the WCT website at www.whittiercommunitytheatre.org.
ENTERTAINMENT
Lalig Tarbinian/La Habra Journal
La Habra resident: Justin Patrick Murphy and Lindsay Marsh of Whittier perform in Whittier Community Theatre’s upcoming production of ‘Johnny Guitar,’opening February 20.
LOCAL THEATER PERFORMANCES DEPOT THEATER 311 S. Euclid La Habra Pirates of Penzance February TBD
LHHS Theater Guild Plumber Auditorium Chapman Ave. Fullerton
Les Miserables February 26- March 8
La Mirada Theatre for Performing Arts 14900 La Mirada Blvd. La Mirada
Whittier Community Theater 7630 S. Washington Whittier Johnny Guitar February 20- March 7
The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley February 15 (Two Shows)
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13
HEALTH/FITNESS
Prepare yourself for another flu season By Amy DeMarco Institute for Healthcare Advancement
Flu season is here. If you have been lucky enough not to get the flu yet, you probably know several people who have already come down with it. Flu season lasts from October to May, with the highest numbers of people catching the seasonal influenza virus in January and February. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that each year in the United States 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu. Of those that get the flu, 200,000 people are hospitalized from seasonal flu-related complications. There is no cure and antibiotics will not help fight the virus. However, there is something you can do to help avoid catching the flu in the first place, and that’s get a flu shot, also known as the flu vaccine. The Affordable Care Act made preventive care free of charge to those with health coverage. This means that if you have health insurance, you should be able to get the flu vaccine at no cost to you. If you need to get health coverage, visit CoveredCA. com to find help near you. In addition to free preventive care, like shots and annual physicals, you could be eligible for help paying your
premiums or free coverage through Medi-Cal. Open enrollment ends on February 15. If you don’t get coverage in 2015, you will most likely have to pay 2% of your income in fines for not having health insurance. Now is the time to protect yourself against the flu and get covered. Getting the flu shot takes a very small amount of time compared to the days of work or school you will miss if you end up getting sick. The flu shot cannot be 100% effective, because doctors have to estimate which types of the virus will be most prevalent in the coming flu season before they start creating the vaccine. This year the vaccine was about 23% effective across all age groups according to the CDC. That may seem low, but some protection is better than no protection at all. Until we can start predicting the future, the flu shot is one of the best ways to avoid catching the virus. If you don’t have health coverage or don’t have time to make it to your doctor’s office, you can stop by almost any local pharmacy to get a flu shot. Some will accept your insurance and will give you the shot with no copay. Without insurance a flu shot can range from about $20 to $40. You can visit: flushot.healthmap.org to find a location to get a flu shot near you.
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It’s that time: The Centers for Disease Control estimate 5-20 percent of the US gets the flu each year. To help combat the flu, it is recommended that individuals get an annual flu shot.
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recover as quickly. Even if you aren’t personally worried about the flu, it is wise to vaccinate yourself to help protect those in your family that are at greater risk.
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14 Iconic Portofino bids ciao to La Habra
BUSINESS
By Taylor Engle La Habra Journal
Twenty-five years ago, an Italian-born man working on his eighteenth year in retail decided to abandon his line of work to open up an Italian restaurant in his neighborhood. He had absolutely no background in the restaurant business, let alone in being the owner of one. It seemed like a decision destined for failure. However, this man was determined to succeed and so he did. It’s the underdog stories of success like these that we love so much: a man had a goal, and although the odds were against him, he put his mind to it and made his goal a part of his reality. This success story happened to hit close to home when former retailer Nick D’Egidio and his brother-inlaw, Tony De Luca, decided to open Portofino on Whittier Boulevard in 1991, where they were able to build a business that attracted an entire community and lasted for a length of time at a location that previous owners were never able to achieve. Portofino is an authentic Italian restaurant that has been cherished by the La Habra community for two and a half decades. It has also attracted many people from surrounding cities, along with visitors from Italy who choose to dine there when they are in town.
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
La Habra restaurateur, Nick D’Egidio stands in front of the wall painting of the Italian town of Portofino. D’Egidio’s restaurant, Portofino, will be shutting its doors after 25 years in the community.
Although quaint and plain on the outside, the inside more than compensates with its soft twinkly lights, Italian newspapers on display, beautifully set tables, and flowers pleasing to the eye. As a pleased guest informed D’Egidio, the restaurant has a “nice, homey feel.” The cheerful and sophisticated aura of Portofino makes even more shocking to learn that February 22 will be their last day of business at this location. After reminiscing over the successful 25 years, D’Egidio said, “We leave with a very sad heart. Times have changed. People used to care about people; now it is all about
money.” According to D’Egidio, Portofino’s landlords decided not to renew the lease on December 22 because they were expecting more money than D’Egidio thought was reasonable to pay. “It was our early Christmas present,” D’Egidio said wryly. The staff has been desperately searching for a building to move the restaurant to, but has had no luck thus far. La Habra resident Joanne Gonzalez said her and her family were devastated to find out Portofino was closing. “We loved Portofino. When we heard the news, we just couldn’t believe it,” she said.
Smart & Final cashier Lori Azeltine knew D’Egidio from the time he came into Smart & Final to purchase supplies for the restaurant. “I am so sad to hear about the closing. I feel like all of the small businesses are going away,” she said. When asked for his final words, D’Egidio requested the La Habra community to join him for champagne and hors d’oeuvres at Portofino on February 16 from 2 to 9 p.m. “It’s our way of saying thank you to the community for all of their support.” Although they are sad to be leaving, Portofino is a restaurant that has been appreciated by La Habra residents for the entirety of its existence.
15
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
NEIGHBORHOOD
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SPORTS
16
Raiders soccer heating up late in the season
By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
The Sonora Raiders soccer team has been on a roll over the past three games winning all three in dramatic fashion. Head Coach Corey Witt has put a focus on playing together as a team, while making the observation that these players play best when they are having fun and playing loose. “They weren’t goofing around, they were just laughing, kind of being friends, being brothers, and when you see that you think, this could be a good day,” Witt said after a 2-1 victory against Sunny Hills. The Raiders started their run against the league’s top team, Sunny Hills, they scored an early goal, before surrendering an equalizer. As they continued to battle, they eventually got a penalty kick from Christian Ruvalcaba and held on to beat Sunny Hills. Against Troy they got off to another good start, but things began to sour quickly as they then gave up three unanswered goals. Just as things were beginning to look grim, the Raiders caught fire and rattled off four unanswered goals, two in 15 minutes to send it to overtime, and two early in overtime to steamroll the Warriors. The Raiders looked for redemption in their next game against Fullerton having tied in their first meeting, despite playing a man down for most of the game. Against Fullerton, they fell into their biggest drought and needed to scrap and claw for their goals.
The Raider offense appeared to be nonexistent until Freshman Blake Tourville ripped an equalizer that shocked everyone. “Blake’s an elite player, he’s not a good, not a great, he’s an elite player,” Witt said. From there the Raiders intensity and hustle wore down the Indians until Juan Villalobos knocked home an emotional game winner. While the Raiders remain focused on looking at things one game at a time, it is hard to not realize how far this team has come. The Raiders fell 1-0 to Sunny Hills to open the season up, only to get trounced 4-0 to Troy. They eventually broke into the win column against Buena Park, but are just now showing the potential that the coaches have seen all season. “I’m just really proud of these guys, I challenge these guys every game, we’ve gone through some really tough tough times over the last couple weeks, just in league,” Witt said after their victory against Sunny Hills. “We’ve got a small core group of boys that I think are finally starting to come together and hopefully it’s at the right time,” Witt said. After every game head coach Corey Witt talks about the need for this team to play together, and little by little that has materialized into three straight victories. The team is showing evidence that they can play together, which has materialized into successful plays and goals.
Erik Markus/La Habra Journal
Footwork: Sonora’s Erik Estrada takes the ball around a Fullerton defender earlier in the season. Head Coach Corey Witt feels that this team is coming together and playing well at the right time.
“They’re starting to play for each other, they’re starting to battle and they’re starting to believe in what we’re trying to tell them,” Witt said. During the Raiders’ game against Troy, Joey Montalvo scored their first goal off an assist from Anton Cervantes because he was chasing on the play and followed the rebound. He would later score the goal which sent them to overtime, after Eli Rico-Torres passed up his own game-winner to set up a wide open Montalvo. Christian Ruvalcaba has steadily been a contributor for the Raiders defense while also knocking in penalty kicks against Sunny Hills and La Habra. Juan Villalobos has taken on numer-
ous challenges as he works back into shape from an ACL injury. His efforts were finally rewarded with the game winner which came off of a pass from Chris Dimas. While the Raiders have flashed individual talent, it has been collective talent that makes them better. “Different players are stepping up when we need it most,” Witt said. A little bit of pressure hasn’t hurt the team either, and has brought this team back in the mix for a CIF birth. “I won’t live too long if that continues, I won’t live as long as I should, being down a goal is ridiculous,” Witt said after two straight come from behind victories.
Lady Raiders roll, double up Indians By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
The Raiders took care of Fullerton led by Marissa Dunn’s red hot shooting, winning 52-36. The Raiders (6-2) ran their offensive to perfection which created open looks for their shooters. “That’s kind of been a little bit of our struggle, we rely a lot on our defense to score and I thought we did a good job of attacking their zone, we shot the ball really well too, so that helps,” said Melissa Barajas, Raiders head coach. Marissa Dunn was the primary beneficiary finishing with 22 points in the first half. “She was doing a great job getting her feet set and knocking down shots,
the girls were looking for her, they (Fullerton) didn’t step out, so we were like lets keep running it, until they switch up how they were going to guard it and they didn’t so we kept going to her,” Barajas said about the baseline play they ran for Dunn. Of her 22 points, 15 came off of three pointers. “I was kind of just shooting, I didn’t even think about it,” Dunn said. Dunn could have scored more, but by the second half the Indians picked up on her shooting touch and made sure she wasn’t left open. “It felt good finally, because it wasn’t really getting much respect in the corner, and finally they realized,” Dunn said. “It felt pretty nice.” Dunn has been unable to get into a consistent rhythm due to foul trouble
but was able to stay on the floor. Dunn has been adjusting to a new hand check rule which combined with her aggressive defense has led to fouls. “It’s taken a while for me to adjust,” Dunn said, “when I get out there I’m always on the floor, diving for the ball, diving for anything and it’s really annoying when you get in foul trouble, because you can’t help your team.” Meghann Henderson and Jazz Shedd have split duties running the point for the Raiders and with the entire team shooting well it proves their maturation. The Lady Raiders will host crosstown rivals La Habra to determine second and their place in the Freeway League.
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SPORTS
Sonora beat Tritons, lose to Friars in duals By Jay Seidel La Habra Journal
After securing its second consecutive Freeway League title last week, the Sonora Raiders wrestling team entered the CIF SS dual matches last Saturday at Marina High School in Huntington Beach. The Raiders did well against their first opponent, beating San Clemente 49-25. “We started off slow,” said David Carrizosa, Sonora head coach. “But they picked it up.” However, they ran into trouble in the second round when they were paired against Servite, a team that has been ranked No.1 in Orange County for the majority of this season. Russell Rohfling locked up the Raider’s only pin against the Friars at the 132 pound weight class. Josh Kawaguchi also secured a decision win for Sonora in the 138 pound weight class. The Raiders were eliminated from the deal tournament, but Carrizosa said that the team will be preparing for the Freeway League Finals Saturday at Sonora, starting at 9 a.m. Individual winners will advance to the CIF round.
Freeway League Wrestling Finals Saturday, Feb. 14 @ Sonora Wrestling starts at 9 a.m.
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Going for the pin: Sonora’s Hiwad Stanekzai moves around a San Clemente wrestler at the CIF Duals match last Saturday. The Raiders beat the Tritons 49-25.
Local athletes sign for the next level
A host of Highlanders: Christian Camacho signed to play soccer at University of Pacific, Austin Nazer signed to play soccer at BYU Hawaii, Carlos Martin will play football at Portland State, and Mike Wheeler signed his letter to play football at Valparaiso.
Future Titan: Whittier Christian’s Natalie Oronoz signed to play soccer at Cal State Fullerton.
Villalobos leads Raiders past Indians By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
Last second heroics from Juan Villalobos propel the Raiders’ boys soccer team to a 2-1 overtime victory against Fullerton. The Raiders went into the game riding a hot streak, but needed help from unlikely heros in order to secure a victory. “I’m glad that Sonora’s getting a couple of breaks, I just kind of feel that those breaks don’t usually go our way, they have been going our way and this group of kids deserve those breaks, they’ve worked really hard,” head coach Corey Witt said. Down 0-1 with 20 minutes to play, Blake Tourville buried a shoot from deep. With nobody nearby, and closer to midfield than the 18, the defender connected on a perfect shot. “As soon as he shot the ball I was about to yell, ‘you have 15 yards dribble,’ and then it went in,” Witt said. The shot jolted off his foot, landing in the back of the top left corner of the net. “I don’t know if I’ve seen a prettier goal in the last number of years, from Sonora Soccer, it was beautiful,” With the score even, the Raiders intensity picked up in search of the winning goal. The gameplan to start was “hustle and muscle,” but it took until deep in the second half for the two to come together. As time passed, it began to look like the winning goal would never come. Chance after chance went to
waste, and the Raiders were getting no help from the referees. With just a minute left to play, the Raiders finally broke through. Off of a corner kick which landed inside the box, Chris Dimas passed the ball over to Juan Villalobos who tapped in the goal in front of the outstretched hand of the keeper. “I won’t live too long if that continues, I won’t live as long as I should, being down a goal is ridiculous,” Witt said about the team playing better down a goal, “sometimes it takes that goal to kind of smack you in the face.” In celebration Villalobos ran towards the sideline, mobbed by his teammates. “Hugging everyone right now was like my motivation of just taking out my anger my frustration with the team, and telling them I’m here still,” Villalobos said. Villalobos has battled through adversity over the season, working back from an ACL tear and even considering quitting midway through the season, his captains have kept him motivated and focused despite the struggles. Kyle Huitt has been one of the leaders in terms of working with Villalobos, and at the end of the game, the two celebrated together. “That was the hug I was looking for, I looked for the captains, to hug them, because they were the ones that kept telling me not to quit,” Villalobos said about his relationship with Kyle and Anton Cervantes. The win extends the Raiders winning streak to three games as they position themselves for a run at CIF.
18
SPORTS
Lady Highlanders shut down Lancers By Ashleigh Fox La Habra Journal
FULLERTON— Sunny Hills High School’s gymnasium roared on Friday night as the La Habra Highlanders traveled to the Lady Lancers territory for one of the last regular season basketball battles. The La Habra women overpowered Sunny Hills, ending the night with a final score of 58-43. Sunny Hills began the night by honoring their senior basketball team members, pumping up the crowd and intimidating the competition. The women carried momentum from the crowd into the first quarter where they scored three three-pointers in a row, leaving La Habra to recover from the nine-point gap. It was not long before La Habra girls fought back. “It was pretty scary. Sunny Hills had senior night so they were pretty inspired and came out with their first three shots all three pointers,” head coach Frank McCarroll said. “We’re down nine to nothing, it’s not what you expect. We weathered the storm, got back in the game.” By the end of the first half, La Habra led by four points, keeping the lead for the rest of the game. The starting five for La Habra were senior Lizette Martinez, junior Amanda Cuervo and sophmores Emma Zener, Lani Maehara and Hannah McArthur.
The young team proved themselves worthy. All three sophomores got points on the board and guard Zener led the underclassmen by scoring two three-pointers and one field goal. Coach McCarroll noted the positive effects of his team working together to make the win happen. “We had our moments. We had some nice opportunities to share the basketball,” McCarroll said. The girls did perform well as a team, McCarroll noting that many different players, including his “three bigs” helping up their score. Two players proved instrumental in the flow and outcome of the game. First was senior and team captain, Lizette Martinez, who scored 14 points for the team as well as continually fed her teammates the ball for assists. Martinez’ leadership shines through her performance and the performance of her team as a whole. After waiting 20 minutes before tipoff for the senior honoring to conclude, McCarroll emphasized the importance of Martinez’ role on the team. “And then we had our senior, Lizette. She had a good game the other night. She’s been stepping up and taking on that senior responsibility.” Junior Amanda Cuervo was an essential part of the game, shining in the second half with 17 rebounds, two assists, four steals and a game to-
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Driving the lane: La Habra’s Emma Zener takes the ball down court for the Lady Highlanders. in their win against Sunny Hills last week. La Habra travels to Sonora to finish the season tonight.
tal of 15 points. She, too, credited the Highlanders success to teamwork. “[I’m excited for] the teamwork we are going to have because I know we all have great chemistry. Hopefully that comes through in our games.” La Habra looks to finish out their
regular season schedule next week. On Tuesday the women will play their final home game of the season against Troy High School at 6 p.m. and finish on Thursday at Sonora High, also starting at 6 p.m.
Highlanders not able to keep up with speedy Lancers By Ashleigh Fox La Habra Journal
FULLERTON— La Habra’s basketball team struggled to keep up with the quick Sunny Hills High Friday night losing 77-50 on the Lancers’ home court. By the end of the first quarter, the Highlander men were only down by 11 and worked avidly to close the gap on the speedy starting squad for Sunny Hills. The men made opportunities to shoot outside the paint, but with their short lineup and tough defense, the shots would not fall. The Highlnders scored 62 percent of their overall points, with Breen coming in as high point with 15 total. Earning second high point, coming off the bench, was sophomore Devin Howlin with 10 points total. The La Habra squad is young, but both the boys and head coach David Ploog know this fact. “We’re kinda young and we’re low on experience so we’re not always
used to it,” Ploog said. “I do think that we give a good effort, it’s just some of the small details that we have to work on.” The second half continued the low scoring streak for La Habra. The men scored 22 of their 50 total points in the third and fourth quarters, while Sunny Hills boasted 34 points in the second half, leading them to a 27 point victory against the Highlanders. Despite shots not falling, the Highlanders refused to give in, keeping up defensively throughout the entirety of the game. Coach Ploog recognizes the team’s strengths as well as their shortcomings, seeing what the team can improve. “We are a defensive team so we kind of set the standard for that,” Ploog said. “We will continue to improve our defense. Being coachable on offense, learning what we’re doing and of course shooting. We haven’t made as many shots as we want. We’re
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getting open jump shots, so I think our offense is okay, we’re just not hitting as many jump shots.” As the season comes to a close and post-season remains out of reach, the Highlander men look optimistically at the last two games coming up next week. “Over the course of the end of this year and moving forward, we’re going to want to continue to be a better jump shooting team, especially because we are not super tall,” Ploog said. “We gotta be better at shooting the basketball instead of worrying about trying to get layups with bigger guys inside. We’re going to continue to work at shooting the ball on the outside and hopefully this next week, this next two games we can do that.” La Habra’s last home game will be played at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10 against Troy High School. The season finale follows shortly after at Sonora High School on Feb. 12, also at 7:30 p.m.
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Taking a shot: The Highlanders struggled against Sunny Hills on the road, losing 77-50 last week. The Highlanders travel to Sonora tonight.
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20
SPORTS
Raiders soar past Indians
By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
The Sonora Raiders battled with the Fullerton Indians before finally breaking through in the second half to secure a victory, winning 73-58. The two teams were neck and neck after two quarters, with the Raiders leading 32-31. The referees called an unusually tight game which forced both teams to spend more time shooting free throws than anything else. “Those guys were calling a foul every possession, I thought it was the tightest of any game we’ve played in a couple of years, every touch was a foul, on both teams,” head coach Mike Murphy said. Of the Raiders 32 first half points, half of them came from free throws, making 16-21. Fullerton meanwhile took 18 free throw shots and made 14 of them. The Raiders struggled to shoot the ball, which made the free throws an ally for them to weather through their shooting slump. “We haven’t been shooting the ball, I mean we can’t make shots, we finally started making shots in the second half and we were able to pull away,” Murphy said. While the free throws kept the two teams close in terms of the scoreboard, there was a significant difference in bench depth. The Raiders carry 14 players compared to Fullerton’s 10.
The Raiders depth helped them survive foul trouble, while the Indians bench struggled as the game went longer. Ben Rico had the hottest hand scoring 14 of his 24 points in the second half. “He played his best defense that he’s played in a while, and he was really going after the ball, Murphy said, “I think that just got him fired up and the defense and the rebounding carried over into his offense and he had a nice game,” Murphy said. Before the game, Rico was concerned with how his ankle would respond, but the it never appeared to be a factor. “Once I got in the game, I think the adrenaline kicked in, I was feeling okay and totally forgot about it,” Rico said. The third quarter was the best for the Raiders who outscored the Indians 26-12 to create an insurmountable gap. “Some we come out as a team defending a little harder than others, but today I really made it my priority to play defense and guard my guy,” Rico said. Josh Rodriguez finished the night with 20 points and 12-14 from the free throw line. The Indians had a balanced scoring effort led by David Sandoval’s 11 points and 10 points from Gerritt Beetstra and Jacob Wirtzer. Similar to the first game between Fullerton and Sonora, the game be-
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Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Putting it up: Sonora’s Ben Rico puts up a shot against Fullerton last week. Rico finished the night with 24 points. The Raiders host the Highlanders Thursday evening.
came very physical by the end. Ashaad Womack left the first meeting with a dislocated knee, but played in his second game since returning from the injury. “I told our guys, they do some things that shouldn’t be done, when you’re going to the basket and they’re pushing guys in the back, I just told
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our guys to keep their poise and just play through all of that,” Murphy said. The Raiders will finish on Thursday against La Habra at home.