Lady Highlanders ready for first golf season See Sports Page 16
La Habra’s Independent Community Newspaper
www.lahabrajournal.com
No. 95461
August 20, 2015
LH Police give bikes to Boys & Girls Club
Breaking from the Past
By Jay Seidel La Habra Journal
By Jay Seidel La Habra Journal
I
t was an ordinary school day in early May when the notification came. Washington Middle School was named a Gold Ribbon School, one of the only junior high or middle schools in the area to receive such recognition and the first such recognition for Washington in decades. Principal Mario Carlos smiled because he knew he was going to be able to tell his faculty and staff that their hard work and dedication the past couple years have been recognized. His smile got bigger as he thought about how he can tell his students that
they can walk the halls with pride, knowing they are attending an award winning school. That is a slight change for Washington. The school has been mired in the stigma of its turbulent past. It’s a past that consisted of under achievement, vandalism and gang violence. “It went through some rough years,” said Sandi Baltes, who served as a teacher and assistant principal at Washington in the early 1980s. Over the last 10 years, the school, which is located on the grounds of the original school in La Habra, has seen a substantial decrease in violence and gang activity, and has seen increases to student success. See SCHOOL Page 4
Heights to see road repairs
By Daniel Hernandez La Habra Journal
LA HABRA HEIGHTS
The La Habra Heights City Council approved a plan at its August meeting to repair the worst parts of the dilapidated roads in the city. After eight paving companies submitted bids to the city, The R.J. Noble Company’s bid of $568,656 turned out to be the lowest plan and much lower than the estimated cost for the road construction project. “Their unit price for the grind and pave is what got them this job. It’s a really, really good price,” said Dave Nichols, La Habra Heights public works manager. Because the bid was lower, city staff asked council to approve an increase in the expected contingency plan and raise it from 15 to 38 percent.
The $133,235 contingency plan allows Nichols to use his own discretion with change orders or extra work to the areas planned for work. The total amount approved for this project is $787,189. According to the council, the plans are to repair the worst parts of East, Fullerton, Hacienda and West roads. The project is expected to take about two months to complete, according to La Habra Heights City Manager Shauna Clark. Clark and her staff were able to scrounge the nearly $800,000 for the patchwork road repair job from six different funding and tax sources, $150,000 of which is from an expired city road tax. The largest of the funding source,
$300,000 is from an already existing gas tax. “The staff did an incredible job of squeezing every nickel out of the budget and re-directing it towards roads,” LH Heights Mayor Michael Higgins said. City Council members voted unanimously to award the contract to R.J. Noble of Orange, authorize the contingency plan as well as authorize Nichols with a counter signature by the city engineer to issue change orders as necessary for this project. According to its website, R.J. Noble has been around for over 60 years. “The R. J. Noble Company is a Class A, General Engineering Contractor specializing in grading and asphalt paving, subcontracting underground, electrical and concrete work,” the company’s website stated.
The La Habra Police Department donated 13 bicycles to the Boys & Girls Clubs of La Habra last week. The bikes range in variety of sizes and types, and were formerly held as property and/or evidence. The bicycles had all been turned in over several months and the owners could not be located. In the past, the LHPD had often auctioned these bikes or sent them out to be scrapped. With the donation, the Boys & Girls Club will distribute these bikes to some deserving club members. “It is a great gesture from the police department to offer these donations to those who would otherwise miss the opportunity to enjoy the pleasure of cycling,” said Pat Favela, program director. For more information about Boys & Girls Club contact them at: (562) 694-1805
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal Road work: The La Habra Heights City Council approved repairing some of the roads in the city.
WHAT ’ S INSIDE THIS ISSUE Corn Festival Wrapup
Obituary La Habra says goodbye to community icon
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Thursday, August 20, 2015
PizzaRev La Habra will be hosting a fundraiser for Jordan Elementary. Just mention the fundraiser at the register and PizzaRev will donate 20% of your purchase to the fundraiser between 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday, August 21, 2015
Movies in the Park featuring Big Hero 6. Fun with the Bamboo Kids Club begins at 6 p.m. and the movie starts at dusk at Brio Park, 300 Euclid St. Fiddler On The Roof is playing now through August 30, 2015 at the Mysterium Theater, 311 S. Euclid Ave., La Habra. For dates, times and tickets visit www.mysteriumtheater. com or call (562) 697-3311.
Saturday, August 22, 2015
La Habra Historical Museum is open today from 12-4 p.m.-201 E. La Habra Blvd. (just North of the library). They are featuring their new exhibit, It started in a barn…120 years of schools in La Habra. Quarterly Clean-up for La Habra Heights residents is today at The Park. They are accepting bagged greenwaste, electronics, recyclables. Please do not bring hazardous waste, liquids or tires. For more information call (562) 694-6302. Daniels Dental Care Kids Day. Children’s exam and cleaning (up to age 13) only $48.00. Complimentary Toothbrush Kit and Prize. Daniels Dental Care, 640 E. Whittier Blvd., La Habra (562) 694-3660. PizzaRev La Habra will be hosting a fundraiser for Sonora Raiders Football. Just mention the fundraiser at the register and PizzaRev will donate 20% of your purchase to the fundraiser between 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Learn the basic principles about firescaping your home with waterwise plants at Armstrong, 1340 S. Harbor Blvd. at 9 a.m.
La Habra City Planning Commission Meeting begins at 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
La Habra Heights Planning Commission Meeting begins at 6 p.m.
Saturday, August 29, 2015
PizzaRev La Habra will be hosting a fundraiser for Arbolita Elementary. Just mention the fundraiser at the register and PizzaRev will donate 20% of your purchase to the fundraiser between 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. La Habra Art Walk. is this evening from 6-9 p.m. at the Imperial Promenade, corner of Imperial Hwy. & Idaho Street. Art will be displayed and available for purchase by artisans, crafters and vendors. All money raised will help support The Children’s Museum at La Habra and the La Habra Youth Committee. Questions call LH Community Center at (562) 383-4205
Monday, August 31, 2015
La Habra Children’s Museum will be closed from today through September 28, 2015 for their annual renovations.
Have an event? Want the community to know about it? Let us know about your community event news@lahabrajournal.com (562) 665-8954
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Hammerin’ time: La Habra city council members took some hammers to the Sunset Inn on Beach Boulevard as part of the offical groundbreaking ceremony Monday for the new luxury apartment complex.
Pacific Community Credit Union offers reverse mortgages workshops
call (714) 626-1455 or visit www. YourCreditUnion.com/RMWorkshop.
Pacific Community Credit Union is offering free workshops to seniors seeking information about recent changes making Reverse Mortgages a viable retirement funding option. The workshops are meant to be strictly educational, with nothing being sold or offered and will offer insight into recent changes that may benefit those considering a Reverse Mortgage. “Reverse Mortgages of the past got a bad reputation – and it was well earned. However, that’s just not the case with today’s Reverse Mortgages. Now they have been completely reformed into a quality product, are government backed and truly are a great option for those looking for retirement funds. We’ve set up these workshops to explain the facts, answer questions and help seniors figure out whether or not it is a good option for their situation,” said Yvonne Ruiz, Pacific Community Credit Union Reverse Mortgage Specialist. The workshops are open to the public. Reservations are required for attendance. Adults only please. To save a spot, attendees should
La Habra Councilman Tim Shaw and his wife Shannon welcomed their fifth son Wyatt James Shaw, August 14 at 11:04 a.m. at St. Jude Hospital. Weighing in at 10 pounds, 4 ounces, and was 21 inches long, he joins brothers Luke (7), Matthew (5), Wes (4), and Jason (2).
Shaws welcome another boy
LHHS Class of 1995 gears up for 20th reunion
La Habra High School class of 1995 will be holding its 20th reunion, during the weekend of Oct 16-18. It will consist of a series of activities. Friday, 10/16 - LHHS football game. Saturday, 10/17 - La Habra 300 Bowl. Sunday,10/18 - Picnic, La Bonita Park. More information will be sent to alumni soon.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Turtle and Tortoise Show is today from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the La Habra Community Center. You get to see, touch and feel turtles and tortoises of all sizes, care and adoption information, raffle prizes, bake goods and snacks for sale. Kids 5 & under are free; 6-12 are $1; 13 & over are $3 and seniors and $2.
Monday, August 24, 2015
Coffee With A Cop is this morning from 8-10 a.m. at Chevron, 101 E. Lambert Rd., La Habra. This is a great opportunity for you to ask questions, voice concerns and to get to know some of the officers in La Habra!
BRUCE’S PAINTING RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Interior and Exterior Quality Work Dependable Service
Bruce Perryman (562) 217-0201 License #853117
Photo courtesy of Mark Sturdevant
The new La Habra High School Highlander HUB student store, is opening Friday. It is being built in part by the LH Chamber of Commerce’s Enterprise Team for students and run by MBA students.
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OPINION
Did you know... By Sue Thompson La Habra Journal
The early settlers of La Habra struggled daily for a source of water. Surface water was hauled for domestic use from La Mirada Creek, Coyote Creek and Brea Canyon Creek. Water for farming was another problem. For every ten years, only seven years had enough rainfall to irrigate the crops. From 1898 to 1900, only five and a half inches of rain fell in the La Habra valley. These drought years were very difficult for many families. J.W. Hole found his first source of water from a spring near the present day Hacienda Golf Club. At that time, there was also a lake at the top of what is now Fullerton Road. This lake was used as a watering spot for livestock. The lake often dried up during years of drought. Some early settlers began to hand
COMMENTARY
dig shallow wells, sometimes discovering water at less than twelve feet deep. These wells were hand pumped to withdraw the water. But these wells were not only a source of water but possible disease as well. Wells were dug in the higher elevations and were as deep as 100 feet. They were bored at first by hand, then by horses driven in a circle. Windmills were sometimes used as a power source to pump out the water. At one time in 1898, twenty eight windmills could be seen in La Habra. Just another interesting piece of the history about where we live, work and enjoy being a part of the La Habra community. Source: La Habra: A Pass Through the Hills, Esther R. Cramer, Sultana Press, Fullerton, 1969.
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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.
Contact: news@lahabrajournal.com sports@lahabrajournal.com
P.O. Box 60 La Habra, CA 90633
(562) 665-8954 Advertising: (562) 665-9711
For you gracious people who read the La Habra Journal regularly, I thank you. You will know by now that we will occasionally run some articles in Spanish (like the article on La Habra native and Latin singer Leyo). While we have received positive feedback about having the Spanish language section, I did receive a couple questions as to why I do it. Yes, I understand this is the United States and the primary language of the country is English. However, as I have stated in previous commentaries there is a large Latino audience in La Habra, many of which are Spanish speaking. Everyday when I wait to pick up my son at school, Spanish is being spoken by many of the parents. Drive down La Habra Boulevard and stop by any of the panderias, carnicerias, joyerias or mercados. Spanish is spoken all over La Habra. Population figures released by the Census Bureau this summer showed that Latinos became the largest ethnic group in California. Further, the nation’s Latino population has grown 57 percent since 2000 according to the Pew Research Center. To bring it back more local, La Habra owes its foundation to the migrant Mexican workers that lived here and worked in the fields local and up in the Central Valley.
Generations of La Habrans speak Spanish and English. We wanted to acknowledge and include this large population of La Habra. I would love to hear from anyone as to what type of coverage you might like en Espanol. We haven’t forsaken English, but include Spanish to embrace more of La Habra. The city is following suit. The success of last year’s inaugural Tamale Festival has prompted a second one that will be larger. Also, the plans to include a Dia de los Muertos celebration. The emergency Services department has even started to offer its CERT training in Spanish. These items are just examples of how the city is furthering the relationship with the city’s roots and Latino community. So know that you will see Spanish here, and sometimes in our social media. As the community newspaper for La Habra and La Habra Heights, we will continue to work to include and inform as much of our community as possible.
—The Editor
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Embracing the entire community by including Spanish
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LOCAL NEWS
4
SCHOOL: Washington focuses on respect and student success (From Page 1)
Since his arrival eight years ago, Carlos has worked to change the culture at Washington. “It is our moral imperative at Washington Middle School that we instill in our students the personal responsibility and love for learning, this way they can reach their full potential for a successful life,” Carlos explained. “If our students value their education it will open up endless doors of opportunities.” Working to create an environment of mutual respect and fostering the feeling of hope and success is something Carlos has done in collaboration with the entire staff since his arrival as a vice principal eight years ago. Carlos and former vice principal George Lopez worked to implement the positive change in the middle school. Lopez has since moved on to be principal of Ladera Palma. In addition to being named a California Gold Ribbon School, overall test scores at Washington have improved over the last decade. Students have been recognized by individual and group achievements by regional, state and national organizations. Washington was also named a California Title 1 High Achieving School. The faculty has been working on transformation of instruction due to all team members taking risks. Examples: Global read alouds, flipped instruction, blogging in the classroom, use of Google Docs, QR codes used in lessons, student created yearbooks, etc. The students have achieved success with the Academic Pentahalon with Top 5 finishes for all grade level and over 100 individual medals earned. The schools Robotics team also took
2nd place at the Cal Poly Competition. With the La Habra City School District creation of academies at the middle schools, Washington has been integrating technology across all content areas through the use of iPads, Kindle Fires, Computers, smart phones, etc. The school has created 15 sections of STEM related electives and is in the running for Golden Bell Award for their STEM programs. Dr. Susan Belenardo and the LHCSD administration have welcomed and supported the changes at Washington. Washington has implemented a campuswide recycling program and offers a host of after school programs to help keep students involved. There is an obvious feeling of hope and enthusiasm for learning on the campus. Students are smiling and excited to be in the classrooms. You can easily get the impression that the students have a strong support system from the faculty, who really want to see their students succeed. “Mario had the courage to do what’s right for the kids,” Baltes added. Baltes is the former president of the La Habra City School District Board. “He believes in what he does and he gets others to believe in it too.” Carlos is quick to explain that it’s the work of the outstanding teachers on campus that has helped change the culture. He said that getting the faculty to come on board with his vision when he became principal was his largest priority. “Dr. Carlos has been the driving force behind this change,” said Carin Verdugo, a teacher at Washington. “He is a leader by example and supports the teachers 100 percent. Without his guidance and leadership, we would not be the school we are today.”
Carlos explained that teachers are initiating new concepts and programs as well as volunteering their time to help make more opportunities for the students. However, despite changing the campus culture to one of support, respect, enthusiasm and initiative, Washington still battles the stigma of the school’s past. The stigma is something Carlos and the staff continues to work to erase. Carlos and his staff have worked to reach out to the parents and inform them of the changes at Washington. Like he did with the faculty, Carlos has sought the support of the parents to support what is happening at the school. “I have been really pleased with Washington,” said Andrea Carey, whose oldest daughter graduated from Washington and youngest daughter just started sixth grade. “When my oldest attended, I was impressed with the emphasis on the kids being responsible. Academically, we had some really strong teachers that ended up being influential in her direction in high school. They were encouraging and seemed willing to give as much as the kid was willing to put in.” Carlos has the ability to connect with families. Recently earning his doctorate, Carlos is an example of the spirit of pursuing your goals that he promotes at Washington. He grew up in Boyle Heights and worked his way through schools in what can be considered rough neighborhoods. He attributes having good teachers who motivated him and helped to make him want to become a teacher and pursue education. His humble upbringing allows him to connect with the parents and help
them understand the philosophy at Washington. La Habra Police Officer David Morrison, who was the former school resource officer, noted the difference in philosophies at the campus. He explained that when a child needed to be disciplined, Carlos would “not so much lecture students about right and wrong as he would lead the student to take responsiblity for their actions and draw out of them the desired character quality.” Morrison too noted that the changes are a result of the entire effort of the staff. “The rest of the staff is also deeply committed to the education and welfare of the students,” Morrison said. “I was constantly being amazed at the devotion given to the WMS students by the staff.” The changes happening at Washington are becoming noticeable outside of the community. Students are winning state and national recognition for their work and presenting their projects to faculty at statewide conferences. Administrators and faculty from surrounding school districts, like Fullerton and Whittier, are touring Washington Middle School to see just what it is they are doing. Many left the tours with ideas to apply at their campuses and thinking that Washington has truly changed. The school has come a long way and continues to move away from its troubled past. Carlos knows that it will continue to be an ongoing project by the entire campus community to keep moving forward. He feels that while they have had much success, the best is yet to come for Washington Middle School.
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 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
La Habra is a company town. It’s at this time of year it can be seen the most. The company is made up of several thousand students heading back to school to be an active part of the educational system. Several hundred teachers are headed back as well to make the system run smoothly. It’s impossible at this time of year to drive anywhere around this company town without seeing bright orange busses picking up and delivering their precious cargo to how many different locations around La Habra. Security is another part of this company town. At numerous intersections drivers are guided by crossing guards who assure a safe walk to where business will take place. Drivers need to remember, as well, that the La Habra Police are an important part of safety as they assure that the 25 m.p.h. speed limit is honored. For those who may forget momentarily that 25 m.p.h. is a key speed limit, radar is employed to help everybody understand. There are so many parts of La Habra involved in this one endeavor. In a sense, La Habra is a company town. There are many who have no children in their home and who don’t feel the nature of the company town. Grandparents in particular know that school is starting but don’t feel directly involved or responsible for any of the outcome. If you are a part of this category, I would invite you to think again. You also are a part of this venture. All of the people I have mentioned can benefit by your prayers. Prayers can be offered for students to learn and to thrive. Prayers can be offered for teachers, administrators, those involved in child safety and for good health for all those involved in the educational system. We’re not really a company town. But we are a city committed to education, our children and the future life of our community. So we pray… Rehoboth Reformed Church 501 South Idaho Street #120 La Habra (626) 820-9390 Service: Sunday 10 a.m.
Vineyard North Orange County 615 S. Palm St La Habra (562) 697-4600 Services: Saturday 5 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.
St. Paul Lutheran Church 111 W. Las Palmas Drive Fullerton, CA 92835 714-879-8290 Services: Sunday Liturgical 8.a.m. and 11 a.m. Praise: 9:30 a.m.
The Warehouse Foursquare Church 16200 E. Amber Valley Dr. Whittier (562) 690-5109 Services: Sunday 9 a.m., 11 a.m.
l
Embracing a Growth Mindset August 19, 2015
Our schools cannot do it alone. We applaud and appreciate the support we receive from the La Habra community. We can all share a sense of pride in the strategic growth in our academic programs in the 2014-15 school year.
How do we empower students for success in the 21st Century? We embrace the challenge of nurturing a growth mindset. As educators we must instill in our students the belief that success and achievement are the result of hard work and effort. We must help them understand that they will experience failures and missteps and that these are opportunities for reflection and growth. To teach a growth mindset is to model those behaviors we expect from our students, it is to provide them with the tools they need to grow and develop their thinking, recognize their effort, and encourage them to strive to reach beyond their comfort zone. Administrators engineering As we welcomed our staff to our their ‘Bristle Bots’ 2015-16 school year, we have provided them experiences and opportunities to be challenged with new learning, to refresh and extend their thinking on district initiatives, and to provide them tools to support them in preparing students for the 21st Century and beyond.
We know how busy you are and can’t always attend a meeting or make a phone call. Let’s Talk is open 24/7 to take your comments, compliments, and feedback. You are important to us and by using the included QR code or accessing the Let’s Talk tab on our District’s website at www.Lahabraschools.org you have the opportunity to start a dialogue with the District on any topic. Staff is committed to respond to your input within two business days.
Academic Coach Shauhna Feitlin demonstrates number talks.
Welcome to our newest leaders!
A new school year is bringing new Administrators to our District Office and new programs and support to our schools. Please join me in welcoming the newest members of our Administrative team and some new and familiar faces in new positions to support our schools.
Jeanne Davis
We are pleased to welcome Jeanne Davis as our Interim Director of Special Education. Jeanne has an extensive background and experience in Special Education and most recently served as the Director of Special Education for the Tri-City Special Education Local Plan Area serving the Districts of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Culver City. Jeanne has served students and families as an educator for over 40 years. Her breadth of training and experience is a great addition to our Special Education Department. Jeanne has an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Brigham Young University. We are very pleased to welcome Jeanne to the La Habra City School District.
Jeanne Davis Director of Special Education
Literacy Coaches – Dana Riggs, Debbye Viveros, Deanna Putnam
Cammie Nguyen
Cammie joins the District Administration team as our Program Specialist. Cammie has been supporting students in Special Education since 2004. She has experience as an ABA therapist, autism specialist and was a school psychologist in the Fullerton Joint Union High School District. Cammie is familiar with our schools in La Habra as most recently she was a program coordinator for our North Orange County SELPA. Cammie has her Masters in Education from Azuza Pacific University and her Ph.D. from Chapman University with an emphasis in school psychology. We are excited that Cammie will be using her expertise to support our schools.
PE Teachers – Emmanuel Mehia and Patty Gaby
Program Specialist Cammie Nguyen
Literacy Coaches
An area of need identified in our LCAP review and update process was support for developing our students’ skills in reading and language development. We are pleased to welcome two new Academic Coaches to support Literacy development – Dana Riggs and Debbye Viveros will join Deanna Putnam in supporting English language arts and English language development throughout the district. Deanna and Debbye will focus on early literacy skills while Dana’s focus will be on the comprehension skills necessary for reading to learn. Deanna, Debbye, and Dana will round out a very talented coaching team of Jody Green (Instructional Technology), Shauhna Feitlin (Mathematics), and Danette Brown, (GLAD). Our teachers and students will benefit from their many years of experience and wealth of knowledge in their specialty areas.
Front row - Teresa Mejia,, Susie Calabrese, Sue Epperly, Michelle Ayala, Shelly Zeyen, Back row - Cynthia Simmons, Zachariah Morales, Alex Barros, Julie Knierim
K-5 Physical Education Teachers
We are pleased to implement a new Elementary Physical Education Program in our K-5 schools! The PE lessons will be in addition to the time students already spend in their Fit Kid Centers. We’ve added two physical education teachers who will rotate to each of our K-5 schools to provide weekly or bi-weekly PE lessons to our students. Patty Gaby, a 32-year veteran teacher in La Habra, most recently was a classroom teacher at Las Positas, and also was a physical education teacher at both Washington and Imperial Middle Schools. We welcome Emmanuel Mejia who has taught physical education for four years, most recently in Torrance where he started their elementary PE program. We are certain that our Elementary PE program will help our students learn and practice healthy habits that will last a life time.
21st Century Learning Support
The advance of technology in all our schools is exciting for the possibilities it opens up for our students. This also comes with the special challenge of ensuring that the technology is accessible and available for our teachers and students. In the 21 st Century learning environment we also continue to need support to ensure that our students have access to our Academy Centers in our Middle Schools and our School Libraries in our K-5 schools to do research and check out books for assignments and projects. We are excited to introduce our new Information Services Technicians II, Alex Barros and Cynthia Simmons, who will be providing this support to the students and staff at Washington and Imperial Middle School respectively. Our K-5 schools will be supported by Information Services Technicians I. We are welcoming Zachariah Morales to join our former Media and Library Technicians, Teresa Mejia, Michelle Ayala, Susan Epperly, Alice Calabrese, Linda Morales, and Shelly Zeyen to provide this valuable support to our K-5 schools. Central to all the support for technology is the coordination of requests for assistance. No matter how well systems are planned and designed, there are surely to be occasions when they just don’t seem to be working as they should. In LHCSD we have addressed this challenge with a new position, Help Desk and Inventory Clerk. Julie Knierim, a former media technician, will be providing this valuable support. Our schools are very fortunate to have the expertise of this talented team to support our 21 st Century learning environment.
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
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FEATURES OBITUARY
Paul Goldenberg 1928 - 2015
The ‘king’ of helping the community He graduated early from Dorsey Paul Goldenberg, known as the High School and started at UCLA “King of Big Screens” and comwhen he was just 16. However, he munity philanthropist died Friday decided college wasn’t for him and of natural causes at his La Habra after two weeks, he left school. Heights home at the age of 87. He started his media career as a Goldenberg was best known to photographer in the U.S. Army in the community for his local TV the 1940s. showroom that was located on After taking a $1,000 loan, he Harbor Boulevard. However, he opened his first repair shop in Los Services... from our He Family to You was a philanthropist and his gener- Unparelleled AngelesReal in Estate the early 1950s. osity greatly benefited a number of Pam quickly moved into the retail end, Kennedy (562) 547-4489 charities and organizations, many selling televisions from his repair Terry Kennedy (562) 458-7948 Terry Pam Chris of which were local. shop. Chris Kennedy (562) 537-8701 Over his life, Goldenberg doAfter moving to La Habra in nated more than $20 million to 1964, he opened his first showroom nonprofit organizations like the La on Harbor Boulevard. Habra Boys and Girls Club, The He focused on customer serGary Center, Help for Brain Injured vice, making sure his employees Children, Blue Star Families, and were courteous and efficient. He many more. instructed his workers to always He helped fund scholarships for answer questions and his delivery students, the City of Hope and the teams to always wipe their feet beLos Angeles Jewish Home. He was fore entering a person’s home. also a major donor to the DemoAs technology advanced to incratic Party. clude projection television, GoldGoldenberg was born in Los enberg moved to specializing in Angeles on April 22, 1928 to his selling big screen televisions, where parents who were Jewish immihe became the self-proclaimed grants. “King” in his advertising camAn admitted movie buff, Goldpaigns. enberg would recycle bottles in the While his business grew and 1930s to collect money to pay to he was delivering televisions from watch movies on the weekends. Ventura to San Diego counties, he
Unparelleled Real Estate Services... from our Family to You
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never forgot the La Habra community and what it meant to him. Aside from his philanthropy, he tried to use resources in La Habra. For one of his commercials in the late 1980s, he filmed it with the La Habra High School football team at the school’s stadium. When he saw that the filming was going longer than expected and that the players had not eaten, he ordered that the shooting be stopped and had a local restaurant bring in food for everyone. In 2006, Goldenberg sold Paul’s TV to a private equity company that decided to keep his name. He then focused more on his philanthropy.
While he gave a lot to the community, he often would request to be anonymous. Despite his picture with his crown, he preferred to remain out of the spotlight and just described himself as just a guy who used to own a TV shop. Services were held Sunday at Mount Sinai Memorial Park in Los Angeles. Goldenberg is survived by his son, Douglas, his granddaughter Lucy and Douglas’ mother, Carol Toni Goldenberg. It is requested that in lieu of flowers, people should make a donation in memory of Paul to the Los Angeles Jewish Home or the City of Hope.
There are those rare moments in life when you are touched with so much love that you realize how beautiful life really is.
Pam Kennedy (562) 547-4489 Terry Kennedy (562) 458-7948 Chris Kennedy (562) 537-8701
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8
FEATURES
LH Corn Festival brings crowds for food, folks
By Katelyn Chavez La Habra Journal
The 67th annual Corn Festival took over La Habra last weekend. The festivities brought local friends and families together to have a summer of fun with numerous rides and attractions, independent food, game and craft booths, a market place, live music and the opportunity drawing for a car. The Corn Festival all started by the Lions Club with the simplest idea of giving back to the community of La Habra. All of the money raised from the festival is used to support nonprofit groups, charities, schools, and more local events of La Habra. Once again, the volunteers of the La Habra Lions Club, who contribute their time and talents, made this another amazing corn festival and parade.
Medieval Times family pack - Donna Sanchez, Upland Speaker system - Dan Cannon, La Habra Chargrill smoker - Dave Baker of Rowland Heights. $100 Applebees gift cards - MJ Noor, Fullerton. Adult bike - Paul Janoian, La Habra Child’s bike - Charles Bethel, La Habra. 2015 Baby Contest results. Age 6-12 months - McKenna Berry, Brea, Age 13-24 months - Jaelani Espino, La Habra. Apple Pie Baking champion Paula, La Habra. Best Hot Salsa in La Habra winner Celia Villagomez, La Habra Best Fruit Salsa in La Habra, Donna Sanchez, La Habra Best use of corn in salsa Trish Garcia, La Habra
2015 Doggie contest results. Dog/owner look -a- like - Diablo and owner The Winners were: Edward, La Habra Fiat Fiat500L 500L--Richard Caslow, Largest dog - Lexi with owner Kearson, La(Dick) HabraCaslow, LaHabra La Habra TV - Jason Cecil, Smallest Dog - Snowball with owner La Habra Laura Wilber, La Habra,
FEATURES
out & fun
Most Talented - Diablo and owner Edward, La Habra Best Dressed - Tyson with owners Abel and Emily Carreno, La Habra. Corn Eating Contests Age 4-7 - Tyler age 7, La Habra (3 pieces) Age 8-12 - Juan age 12, La Habra ( 4 pieces ); Age 13-17 - Jose ,16, La Habra (4 pieces ). the Adult competition - Frank Paulin, Santa Ana(9 pieces). High School Corn Eating Contest Sonora Cheer Sonora Football
9
LOCAL NEWS
10
Back to School
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT SCHEDULES
La Habra City School District Lowell Joint School District Arbolita El Portal
Jay Seidel/La Habra Journal
Summer vacation officially came to an end for La Habra area children last week. Lowell Joint School started August 11 and 12. La Habra City School District classes returned August 17 and 18.
Want to watch the community news?
August 19
August 20
El Cerrito
Jordan
August 26
August 26
Ladera Palma
Macy
September 16
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Las Lomas
Meadow Green
August 25
August 25
Las Positas
Olita
September 2
August 20
Sierra Vista
Rancho Starbuck August 27
August 24
Walnut
August 20
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Imperial Middle School September 3
Washington Middle School September 9
City of La Habra Community Services Department 101 W. La Habra Blvd.
562-905-9708
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647 E. Whittier Blvd. La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 691-3621 (714) 526-1279 FAX (562) 691-8658 www.HALLMARKCARPETS.NET HALLMARKCARPETS@LA.TWCBC.COM State Contractor’s License #641039 Mike McDonnell Gene McDonnell
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY
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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
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!
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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 PET BOARDING & GROOMING The Dog Lodge 1551 W. Lambert Road La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 691-1152 PHARMACY v Bi-Rite quality pharmacy Home health and medical equipment. 340 N. Harbor Blvd La Habra Ca 90631 562-691-0539. 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 University Printing 153 E. Whittier Blvd. Ste A La Habra, CA 90631 (562) 690-8954 www.universityprinting.org Mark Sanders
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12 En busca de la fama sin perder la humildad Por Genesis Miranda La Habra Journal
Nacido en Fullerton y criado en La Habra en una tradicional familia mexicana, Leonardo Méndez se dio a conocer como Leyo, un cantautor latino. Aunque el canto es más bien a lo que Leyo se dedica, fue una gran oportunidad para él ser parte del programa de internet en Hulu, “East Los High”. “Todos los que están ahí son muy trabajadores, las personas que avanzan son las que le echan ganas”, Leyo dijo. Una de las canciones originales de Leyo, “Vete Con Él”, fue incluida en la tercera temporada del programa. Leyo también tuvo una escena pequeña como artista invitado donde apareció junto a la cantante Christina Milian. Desde entonces Leyo ha estado tomando clases de canto y de actuación, aprovechando todo su tiempo para cualquier oportunidad nueva que se le presente. “Esa es la realidad, tienes que estar preparado”, Leyo dijo. Un programa como “East Los High” es interesante por su elenco, el cual es completamente latino. “No lo logras en un día”, Leyo dijo hablando de triunfar en el mundo de entretenimiento. “Hay trabajo que hacer para llegar a donde estas”. Leyo dice que mucho antes de que pensara en aplicar para “East Los High”, el encontró el programa por medio de su cuenta de Hulu. Después mando su música para ver si podría ser presentada en la segunda temporada del programa, y aunque no fue aceptada a la primera vez, sí lo fue para la tercera temporada. “Yo creo que todo pasa por una razón”, Leyo dijo. “Creo en Dios y que Él nos abre puertas”. “Quien sabe si estaré en la próxima temporada”, Leyo dijo, “a ver qué pasa”. Cuando era joven Leyo, se pasaba su tiempo en su iglesia y cantando en las casas de convalecencia. “Mucho servicio a la comunidad, recaudaciones de fondo y más que
nada la iglesia”, Leyo dijo. Durante la preparatoria, Leyo fue parte de grupos como M.E.Ch.A. y fue el líder Cristiano de su escuela. Leyo fue a la primaria en Las Lomas y Las Positas, la escuela secundaria Imperial Middle School y se graduó de La Habra High School. Leyo recuerda al señor Montoya, un maestro de la preparatoria quien él dice fue una gran inspiración y le brindaba su apoyo. Después de graduarse fue dos años a la universidad de Cal State Fullerton, antes de enfocarse por completo en su carrera musical. Desde muy pequeño Leyo tuvo un interés por la música, cantando los temas musicales de las novelas para sus hermanitos. Él recuerda aquel día en su iglesia cuando una señora durante la alabanza le dijo que el debería de cantar al frente porque tenía una voz hermosa. Desde ahí Leyo se involucró con el coro de su iglesia y se enfocó en su sueño más grande, el canto. Después de graduarse de la preparatoria, Leyo decidió aplicar para la quinta temporada del programa de Telefutura, Objetivo Fama. Este programa era una competencia de canto pero a la vez un programa reality. Leyo dice que ser parte de Objetivo Fama le enseño que lo importante es tener carácter y ser persistente. Después de llegar al Top 12 del programa, Leyo no siguió mas pero por su gran carisma y personalidad fue invitado de regreso para ser un correspondiente y entrevistar a otros artistas. Desde entonces Leyo decidió que eso no era lo que él quería hacer y se enfocó en la música. Ahora está trabajando en nuevos proyectos. Sus proyectos más recientes incluyen su primer álbum de estudio y ser parte del programa “East Los High”. Leyo trabaja con el productor Cory Rooney, quien ha trabajado con otros grandes artistas latinos como Jennifer López, Marc Anthony y Thalía. “Básicamente tengo un buen equi-
EN ESPAÑOL
Foto cortesía Kimberly Cioffii
La artista: El natural de La Habra Leyo tiene una canción popular y un papel en un espectáculo de Internet pero se queda humilde y relacionado con su comunidad.
po detrás de mí”, Leyo dijo. Por ahora, Leyo se está enfocando en darse a conocer en la industria musical en español. “Mi corazón y mi alma están en la industria en español”, Leyo dijo. “No lo puedo explicar pero hay cierta energía que te da”. Leyo vivió toda su niñez y parte de su juventud en La Habra. Y aunque ahora pasa la mayoría de su tiempo en Los Ángeles, Miami y Nueva York ensayando o trabajando, de vez en cuando regresa para visitar a su familia y amigos. Este fin de semana pasado, Leyo se presentó y canto en la feria anual de La Habra “Corn Festival”. Ir a esta feria y después comer en T&S burgers era costumbre de cada año para Leyo y su familia. “Mi corazón siempre estará aquí. Mire a esta ciudad cambiar completamente y mejorar”, Leyo dijo. Regresar a La Habra le trae muchos recuerdos buenos a alguien como Leyo. Dice que le alegra ver a su madre feliz y tan orgullosa de él. “Me da un sentido de humildad. Yo siempre voy a ser Leonardo, el hijo de Esperanza Méndez”, Leyo dijo.
Incluido en su álbum hay una canción llamada “La Flor”, la cual fue inspirada por el padre de Leyo. Él dice que aunque su padre ya no vive, siempre recordara la dedicación y el amor que su padre tenía a su trabajo de jardinero. “Él tenía muchas fallas y tal vez no fue el mejor padre, pero sigue siendo mi padre”, Leyo dijo. Son emociones y recuerdos que inspiran a Leyo a escribir nievo material para sus canciones. “Por eso amo a nuestra cultura mexicana, se siente más, es más dramática”, Leyo dijo hablando de la música en español. “En nuestra cultura somos tan apasionados”. Leyo se inspira por sus experiencias pero también por otros artistas latinos como Juan Gabriel, José Feliciano y Luis Miguel. “Ese es el tipo de artista que yo quiero ser”, Leyo dijo. “Cuando estén tomados que toquen [música de] Leyo, cuando estén contentos que toquen [música de] Leyo”. Leyo ya tiene tres canciones en iTunes, “Vete Con El”, “Ya No Recuerdas”, y “Dime Que Sí”.
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FEATURES
13
LHPD K9, officer receives award by OC Sheriffs Dept.
Corporal Nick Baclit and his police dog Prinz received forward looking award for their work in apprehending suspect. By Taylor Engle La Habra Journal
The Orange County Sherriffs helicopter “Duke” and representatives from Orange County Air Support landed in the parking lot of the La Habra Police Department in order to present Corporal Nick Baclit and his police dog Prinz with an award on July 31. The police department and members of the La Habra community gathered in the parking lot to witness the sheriffs explain the significance of the award and why the winners were chosen. Every year, the Air Bureau presents the national two-part award in Texas at the Airborne Law Enforcement Association Conference known as the Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) Vision Award. It goes to instances of the best air support and service dog apprehension. Representatives of each county submit the top videos and the panel then chooses the winner. This year, Orange County had the honor of winning both parts of the award: the Orange County Sheriffs for the best air support and Baclit and Prinz for the service dog apprehension. This award was earned based on
an act that took place on December 13, 2013. The La Habra Police Department was pursuing a subject with an outstanding warrant for his arrest when they called in the Orange County sheriffs for air support with “Duke,” the name of one of the OCSD’s helicopters. Through the air, the sheriffs deputies were able to locate the suspect with infrared, providing Baclit with the ability to deploy Prinz and detain the suspect. The sheriffs were able to travel to Texas to officially accept the award; since Baclit and Prinz were not able to join, the sheriffs chose to fly it home to them. Upon arrival, the sheriffs not only explained the award to the attentive crowd but also played the video of the arrest that got them the award. Baclit was then awarded his plaque. However, the more unique part of the award was given to Prinz; the Air Bureau had a crystal water bowl made with his name engraved on it, a dog collar, and a leather leash. After the awards were presented, the Orange County sheriffs opened the helicopter for the police officers and La Habra citizens and demonstrated all the functions and mechanisms. “Not only did they present mine and Prinz’s awards in such a great fashion, but they were very transparent with the public,” said Baclit. Baclit was extremely honored to receive the award. He and Prinz have been partners for the past five years,
File Photos
Award winner: Cpl. Nick Baclit and his K9 partner Prinz received an award by the OC Sheriffs Department for helping out their air unit apprehend a suspect who was running from law enforcement officers. .
and he has loved the experience. They have made a great team; Baclit was awarded La Habra Officer of the Year in 2014 based on his thorough career with Prinz. Baclit was passionate about working with service dogs from the very beginning of his career. As soon as he was eligible, he tested for the K9 program. Baclit was immediately selected and paired up with Prinz. “I attribute the award to the work of those pilots and to my dog, Prinz,” said Baclit. “They are the real award winners.” Baclit, Prinz, and the sheriffs may have won the award, but the collaborative efforts of the Orange County Sheriffs and the La Habra Police Department is an award for the entire community.
ROADS: Heights council approves scaled repair plan (From Page 1)
During the road construction the streets will remain open, but residents will have to drive on rough roads for a couple of days, Nichols said. Council members at the meeting were handed pictures of some of the biggest problems with the streets in LH Heights, using the images captured by Nichols back in April and May as a description of the work
needed to be completed. Although the pictures were available to council, Mayor Pro Tem Kyle Miller hopes city staff will be able to share these images with the public in an effort to help the community understand the need for more public funds for more major road repairs. In 2012 a road tax that would have raised $1 million annually was defeated by voters, and since that time
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council has mulled different ways the city might be able to better educate community members about the need to repair the aging infrastructure. “You can’t walk 500 feet down any street … without seeing a pothole in the making or cracks or alligatored asphalt,” Nichols said. ”We’re still hopscotching around and taking care of the worst problems.” The city does not have the funds to
do a complete job to repair the roads, Nichols noted. The damage to the city roads is from normal wear and tear, according to Nichols. With this patchwork road repair job the city hopes to alleviate some of the worst problems, so when a larger solution arises, the costs are not too large.
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Raider Water Polo focused and ready
By Erik Markus La Habra Journal
After two years of development, the Sonora Boys Water Polo program is beginning to take shape. Two years ago Jim Sprague took over the program. One of his first changes was implementing morning practice. “We had two and three kids per morning workout. Seven of the seniors said they were not coming, so they played JV,” head coach Jim Sprague said. Their first season didn’t come easily, they lost nine of 10 games in league that season, but it created an atmosphere designed for winning based on effort and hard work. The next season they finished tied for second in league. Two years later, that hard work is beginning to take shape. Last season the Raiders season came down to a three way tie for second with Troy and La Habra. To settle the tie, they played Troy first, then the loser would play La Habra. “We really came into our own after our first playoff game,” head coach Jim Sprague said. Sonora lost the first game against Troy, then 20 minutes later started a game against La Habra. “I think it was only the greatest coaching pep talks I’ve ever given, I came up and told them they weren’t tired, they’re only rested,” Sprague said, joking.
The Raiders went on to control the game, beating La Habra by double digits. Sprague has focused his attention on putting players in the best possible position to be successful. Combined with all the time the players are putting in is leading to their quick development. One unique thing Sprague did was recruit a handful of baseball players to play for their team. “We got a couple of the baseball players who were freshman to come and lift weights and spend a little bit of time here, and after baseball season, they dropped baseball,” Sprague said, “they’re two of our best players.” As the program continues to grow, Sprague makes a point of pushing his players to be involved in sports. “I’d never work in a program where I didn’t ask my kids to swim,” Sprague said. He made an exception for players who were involved in other activities and sports. “If you’re going to sit at home while the rest of your teammates are working, then you’re not really part of the team,” Sprague said. The Raiders this season will be led by Juniors, Conrad Napier and Ben Angulo.Ben is moving from the goal in order to help them in other spots, and moving into the goal is an athletic sophomore, Kyle Boland who’s learning the position. “Most people feel that 90 percent of a goalie’s job or almost 100 percent of a goalie’s job is blocking the ball. I feel
that 40 percent of his job is blocking the ball, 30percent of his job is to run the offense , and 30 percent is to run the defense,” Sprague said. The Raiders biggest issue this season will be learning how to play against good teams. The Raiders have used film sessions in order to watch their games and practices and learn from the mistakes made. “What I had them watch were the first three plays of a 35 minute scrimmage. It took two minutes, but there were enough mistakes made there,” Sprague said. As the team continues to learn and develop, the program is growing in depth and knowledge. The Raiders Boys’ water polo team now has more than 50 players enrolled in the program. Of those 50, all of the young players are routinely showing up to morning practice. “They’re all learning that, gee, I’m supposed to be there,” Sprague said. This change in attitude and ex-
SPORTS
perience give him confidence that their trajectory for success will only continue with time and practice. “I guarantee you, there’s not a team around here who’s frosh/soph kids are getting two and a half hours of work a day,” Sprague said. Sprague’s focus remains on the development of all his players and sees all this as learning experiences for life. “You want good grades? Then you work for them, if you don’t work for them, then don’t expect them. You’re going to get what you put into it,” That attitude and approach is what allows somone to take a one win team and turn them into a contender. With Sonora’s top players only Juniors, they are poised for success, as long as they continue to be disciplined. The Raiders’ season begins on September 8, with a srimmage against Buena Park and Brea. Freeway League games will begin later that month on the 30th with Sonora hosting La Habra played at Fullerton High School.
RAIDER WATER POLO SCHEDULE 9/8 Brea - Buena Park Scrimmage 3:15 9/10-12 Ayala Tournament 9/17 Valencia 3:15 9/18-19 Los Alamitos Tournament 9/21 Don Lugo 9/23 @Milliken 9/25-26 Bull Run Tournament 9/30 La Habra @Fullerton
10/7 @ La Habra 10/14 Troy 10/21 Sunny Hills 10/22 @Whittier 10/23 @Esparanza 10/28 @Buena Park 11/2-4 Freeway League Tournament 11/6 @Canyon
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16
La Habra hitting the links with first girls golf team By Shanin Thomas La Habra Journal
The La Habra High School Highlanders will field their first women’s golf team for the 2015 season. Last year, La Habra High School created a women’s golf club in preparation of creating a competitive team for this upcoming fall season. About 15 girls joined the club with little to no experience but lots of enthusiasm and interest. Head Coach Cody Verdugo said that most of the girls had never played before. “Only three girls had golf clubs, but at least 10 took a liking to golf. I am very pleased with the growth we have seen,” he said. The golf club at La Habra High School included instructions for the basics of the sport. Not only did the girls in the club learn to hit a plastic golf ball in the football stadium, Coach Verdugo also taught the girls golf etiquette. “Golf is like an onion. There are layers to the sport. It is not just about hitting the golf ball,” Verdugo said. Interest in girls golf has not only sparked at La Habra High School but in other Freeway League schools as well. Fullerton, Sunny Hills and Buena Park have decided to field a girls golf team this season. They will join Troy, which already had a team in place. Troy High School will be the most competitive women’s golf team this upcoming season because they previously fielded a girls’ golf team and have competitive returners. In fact, last season Troy’s women’s team ranked No. 1 in Orange County, No. 3 in the CIF Southern Section, and No. 5 in the state of California. Preseason will begin in late August and league competition will start on Sept. 13. For Verdugo, the decision to move from being on the coaching staff of La Habra Football to take up the challenge of starting a girls golf team was to follow his passion. Verdugo fell in love with the sport of golf in his senior year of college at Chapman University. Although he has played football his entire life, golf has become a sport he has become passionate about.
Additionally, Verdugo’s son and three daughters have also taken a liking to the sport and participate competitively as golfers. Coach Verdugo proved his coaching ability last season as the La Habra men’s golf team finished eighth in the Southern division, the best finish in the school’s history. The Whittier Daily News honored Verdugo as 2015 Coach of the Year. The amount of money invested in women’s golf college scholarships is another reason Coach Verdugo has created a women’s golf team to accompany the men’s team. Although the growth rate of participation of women has almost tripled men in the last few years, women still make up less than 25 percent of golfers, according to athleticscholarships.net. According to scholarshipstats. com, in 2014 the number of male high school golfers is double the amount of female golfers. However, Division I universities offer six scholarships to female golfers as opposed to the four and a half to male golfers. That growth rate was shown during the first day of La Habra’s women’s golf tryouts Wednesday afternoon at Westridge Golf Club. Twelve returners from the golf club were present as well as eight additional girls. The additional girls who showed up at tryouts did not know much golf etiquette, but they were athletic, Coach Verdugo said. “It would be rare for someone to show up and be completely ready,” Verdugo said. Coach Verdugo is looking to field a team between 15 and 20 girls. Although only seven players compete in a match for both varsity and junior varsity, 20 girls is a good number to manage girls who are still developing their skills as golfers, he said. “Returners will be the foundation of the varsity team,” Coach Verdugo said. The Lady Highlanders hit the links for the first time on September 9 against Empire League champion Valencia at Alta Vista Country Club in Placentia at 4 p.m.
2015 Inaugural Season Schedule 9/09 @ Valencia 4 p.m. 9/11 @ Brea Olinda 5:30 p.m. 9/23 Savanna 5:30 p.m. 9/25 Laguna Hills 5:30 p.m. 9/30 California 5:30 p.m. 10/02 Sunny Hills 10/06 @ Troy 10/08 @ Fullerton
10/14 Buena Park 10/16 @ La Habra 10/21 @ Sunny Hills 10/23 Troy 10/28 Fullerton 10/30 @ Buena Park 11/04 La Habra League matches in bold
Mandy Arriola finishes a swing during practice. The lefty looks to help lead the Lady Highlanders during their inaugural season. Photos by Jay Seidel/ La Habra Journal
2015 Lady Highlander Golf Team Roster
Alyssa Enriquez Alyssa Heidrich Dominique Tosunian Janet Romero Mandy Arriola Aurora Heuermann Galina Tressler Haylee Enriquez Kira Cauley Samantha Parr Charlotte Irirzarry Alex Barber Frankie Valencia Julia Sanchez
Alyssa Heidrich takes a swing during practice.