Sports
Education
Athletes of the Year page 4
Chalk Talk, page 2 - 4
The Community Paper of Record
Vol. 55, No. 12
Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966
June 13, 2018
Never Was So Much Owed by So Many to So Few by Staff Writer El Monte
A wreath adorned with red, white and blue carnations stands in front of City Hall, honoring the lives of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country. The solemn wreath presentation formed part of the City of El Monte’s Memorial Day ceremony to commemorate fallen soldiers. The ceremony began with a Presentation of Colors by the Veterans Foreign Wars Post 10218 and American Legion Post 261. Local dignitaries gave heartfelt salutes, remembering the lives of heroes and their surviving families. Special Guests of the City joining the ceremony included Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, Assemblyman Ed Chau and Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis. Former Assemblyman Mike Eng and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa were also present. Following the remarks, Colonel Ralph Roy Ramirez provided the keynote address, sharing anecdotes about his military experience and camaraderie fostered by his fellow colleagues. El Monte Police and Naval Reserve, Lieutenant Shane Buckhannon had the honor of hosting the Missing Man Table. The Missing Man Table, also known as the Fallen Comrade Table, is a place of honor, set up in military dining facilities and during special occasions in memory of fallen, missing, or imprisoned military service-members. Memorial Day, first known as Decoration Day, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United
El Monte Memorial Day Celebration, pictured above is Colonel Roy Ramirez. Photo Courtesy Memorial Day continued on page 8
Willard F. Payne School Celebrates 80 Years of Educating El Monte’s Youth by Staff Writer El Monte
Willard F. Payne School, in the Mountain View School District (MVSD) hosted a spectacular 80th Anniversary Celebration, commemorating 80 years of educating the children of El Monte. The school originally opened in 1937 as Mt. View Junior High and was renamed to Willard F. Payne School in 1965. It is one of the oldest schools in the area and was the first school located at the end of the historical Santa Fe Trail. Much of the original architecture and structures make up the current campus. Along with Payne’s current preschool through 6th grade students and staff members, MVSD was honored to have many former Payne and Mt. View Jr. High alumni and staff members join in the celebration. A
Courtesy photo.
80 Years continued on page 7
Mid Valley News
Page 2
June 13, 2018
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk
by Staff Writer, El Monte
El Monte Union Celebrates Graduation of More than 2,000 Students
El Monte High School’s Cesar Frias, who will attend Georgetown University, touches the high school lion after receiving his diploma during the school’s graduation ceremony on May 31. Photo Courtesy
The El Monte Union High School District honored more than 2,000 members of the Class of 2018 in commencement ceremonies that included
teachers and staff proudly looking on, excited students waving their diplomas through the air and families and friends cheering loudly from the
Spotlight On Arroyo’s Varsity Girls Wrestling
El Monte’s Sandra Amezcua, who has a 4.47 GPA and will head to Yale University; Rosemead High’s Alec Nguyen, who has a 4.45 GPA and will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT); Arroyo High’s Eldon Ngo, who carries a 4.4 GPA and will attend UCLA; El Monte High’s Ishael Garcia, whose 4.37 GPA earned him a spot at Stanford University; and Mountain View’s Ethan Huang, who carries a 4.3 GPA and will attend UCLA. “In the coming years, we will not remember some of the theories and formulas we learned in class or even the people around you, but we will remember the love we shared and the growth we experienced,” said Michael Nguyen, who is headed to MIT and served as one of Arroyo High’s 12 valedictorians. “We owe it to ourselves and this school to continue to manifest the lessons we learned and embody values we were taught here.” Students also acknowledge teachers and staff who encouraged and supported them throughout high school. “Thank you so much for pushing me to strive to do my best,” said El Monte High student speaker Ismael Garcia. “Because of all of you, because of your love, your devotion to your job and your hard work, you
2018 Graduates continued on page 3
High School Opens Track for Public Use by Christopher Au-Young, Contributing Writer
by Britney Nguyen, Staff Writer, Knights Banner
Sophomore Amy Mijares decided to start wrestling a few days after Thanksgiving because Coach Tran constantly pestered her to join. After trying out she immediately got into girls varsity wrestling. “At first it didn’t feel like much because people were saying I’d only be in varsity because I was only 189 weight class but then I started going to the varsity tournaments. It felt really good to be up there in the varsity,” says Mijares. In wrestling you have to be in a certain weight class, some have to either gain or lose weight. But for Amy it wasn’t hard for her to achieve a certain weight. “For me it wasn’t [hard] because all I had to do was lose a couple of pounds— maybe 10 pounds, but for some people who want to keep cutting for a different weight class it’s pretty hard,” added Mijares. Mijares’ favorite memory was the first time she actually made it to finals in a tournament. “It feels great to make it to the finals in a tournament and on the way
stands. “It has been a privilege to watch our students grow into the young adults they are today, prepared to tackle challenges of tomorrow and ready for the next step in their academic and professional careers,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “From the first day students’ stepped onto our campuses to the last day when they crossed those stages, our teachers, staff and administrators have been there to support and guide them in reaching this momentous milestone,” Zuniga said. “I want to thank the El Monte Union community for coming together in support of our students’ everlasting success.” The District celebrated 530 graduating seniors from Arroyo High School, 427 students from El Monte High School, 322 students from Mountain View High, 394 seniors from Rosemead High and 305 students from South El Monte High. Fernando R. Ledesma graduated 75 students and the El Monte-Rosemead Adult School celebrated 90 students at its ceremony. Together, the five comprehensive high schools produced 58 valedictorians with GPAs of 4.2 or higher; many plan to pursue majors in science, technology, engineering and math at prestigious universities. Among these students are South
there you keep feeling that pump after every time you win,” said Mijares. Before a tournament/match Mijares would listen to music to drown herself from all the people talking because there’s a lot of people at a tournament. Competing in a tournament isn’t easy, but luckily Amy’s confidence pulled through. “I’d get nervous based on the way the girl would look and that would mess me up but when I was confident it would really help,” replied Mijares. Unfortunately, on the 2nd day of CIF Mijares could not make it to her match due to a car accident that happened nearby. She was late to her match just by 10 minutes and was disqualified. However, she thought the season was better than she thought but she wishes that she could’ve made it farther. Editors Note: This article is reprinted from the March 16, 2018 issue of The Knights Banner with permission.
The Arroyo High School Track is now open for public use on select days. The City of El Monte is working with the Union High School District, now the public can use the track for exercising purposes after school hours. According to the Center for Disease and Control Center, people who maintain physical activity for an estimated seven hours per week have a 40% lower risk of premature death. Opening up the track to the public promotes living an active lifestyle that also places emphasis on overall wellbeing. The Arroyo High School Track is open to a 400-meter track located on Cedar Ave and is open to the public from June 11st through September 1st, Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 pm to 9 pm, and Saturdays from 7 am to 10 pm. The City of El Monte Parks & Recreation division offers various programs and park spaces that promote overall health and fitness wellbeing. The division offers programs that include after school activities and adult sports programs, as well as activi-
ties for children and teens. Included are Pee Wee Sports, Youth and Teen Sports, Cheerleading, a Junior Recreation Leader Volunteer Program, and extended seasonal programming throughout the year. The neighborhood parks and playground sites located at Cogswell School, Arceo Park, Gibson Mariposa Park, and Zamora Park emphasize fitness among children and adults. El Monte Parks and Recreations Division holds special events such as the Annual Healthy Eggstravaganza Family Fun Day, All City Track & Field Meet, and Health & Wellness Fair among others. For more information, contact the Parks and Recreation Office at (626) 580-2200.
June 13, 2018
Page 3
Your Community Paper of Record
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk
El Monte Union 2018 Graduates 2018 Graduates Continued from page 2
have given us invaluable knowledge for a better future and a better life.” “You have lifted us during difficult struggles and have always appropriated time for students,” added Gavin Spillards, one of South El Monte High’s five graduation speakers. At Rosemead High School’s graduation, administrators bestowed a high school diploma on 90-year-old Navy veteran Kelly Crowell as his wife and children looked on. Crowell, who volunteers as a pitching coach for
the Rosemead girls’ softball team, dropped out of school in 1946 to join the service. “It’s exciting to be with the kids and show them that it’s never too late to finish what you started,” he said.
Mountain View High School students make their way onto the field during the school’s commencement ceremony on May 31. Courtesy Photo
Clad in sashes, medals and ropes, Arroyo High School seniors celebrate their commencement on May 31. Courtesy Photo
South El Monte High seniors await their moment in the spotlight as they receive their diplomas during the school’s ceremony on May 31. Courtesy Photo
Navy veteran Kelly Crowell receives a high school diploma from El Monte Union Board of Trustees member Florencio Briones during Rosemead High School’s graduation on May 31. Courtesy Photo
Top Left: Fernando R. Ledesma High students celebrate their successes during the school’s graduation ceremony on May 31. Above: El Monte-Rosemead Adult School celebrates its May 30 graduation ceremony with speakers Carmen Herrera and Xavier Guevara. Courtesy Photo
El Monte Union, SCE Celebrate Installation of 1,000th Electric Vehicle Station byStaff Writer El Monte
El Monte Union High School District and Southern California Edison held a joint “1,000 Station Celebration” to mark the installation of the 1,000th electric vehicle charging station under SCE’s Charge Ready pilot program on May 30 at South El Monte High School. District officials, SCE representatives gathered at South El Monte High School to “plug in” the newest EV station at the school and celebrate the milestone with students and the community. El Monte Union is the first public school district to be accepted into the Charge Ready program – aimed at getting more EV charging stations installed in locations where drivers park their cars for extended periods of time. The District is close to completing the installation of 44 stations at six sites. “We are proud to be an energy-efficient and environmentally conscious school district that not only cares about the health, well-being and education of our students, but also our environmental impact on the world,” said Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga, who served as the event’s MC. “We are thankful to Southern California Edison for supporting our sustainability efforts and affording us the opportunity to participate in this
groundbreaking program.” The event included remarks from EMUHSD Board of Trustees Clerk David Diaz and SCE Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Caroline Choi, both of whom emphasized the importance of clean air. The event also featured a display of electric vehicles to highlight the various ecofriendly transportation options available, as well as a plug-in ceremony. El Monte Union qualified in May 2016 to participate in SCE’s $22 million Charge Ready program, which has funded installation of EV stations at schools, multi-family spaces, office and government workspaces. Under the program, El Monte Union owns, operates and maintains the electric vehicle charging stations, while SCE is charged with installing and maintaining the supporting electrical infrastructure, valued at about $172,000 per site. So far, El Monte Union has installed seven charging stations at the Rosemead, Arroyo and Mountain View High campuses; eight at El Monte High School and ten at South El Monte High. The District office will receive five charging stations in the fall. “We have made a concerted effort to support thoughtful environmental stewardship and sustainable living by engaging our students, community members and local partners,” said
El Monte Union Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga, left, South El Monte High School Principal Dr. Amy Avina, EMUHSD Energy Manager Shawn Cun and Chief Business Officer Wael Elatar celebrate the installation of the 1,000th electric vehicle charging station under SCE’s Charge Ready pilot program on May 30 at South El Monte High School. Courtesy photo
EMUHSD Energy Manager Shawn Cun, who has been instrumental to strengthening the District’s environmental programs. “Our community partners are essential to reducing our carbon footprint and raising awareness of how others can do the same.” At full capacity, the charging stations can supply more than 170 megawatt-hours of energy to EMUHSD employees and students annually, allowing for nearly 700,000 miles of travel with electric powered vehicles and offsetting about 160 metric tons of carbon dioxide. El Monte Union is a Green Rib-
bon School and Energy Star leader recognized by the state and the U.S. Department of Education for its pioneering energy savings projects and energy efficiency. Recently, the District secured $13.6 million in Clean Renewable Energy Bonds) for solar power installation at five sites. It has also been recognized with a San Gabriel Valley Water Smart Award by the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District for achieving significant reduction in water usage through a landscape survey and retrofit program.
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Mid Valley News
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Summer School Schedule 2018
Arroyo HS, El Monte HS, Mountain View HS, Rosemead HS, So El Monte HS, F.R. Ledesma HS, Community Day School and Transition Center Tuesday, JUNE 5 – Thursday, JULY 12, 2018 This schedule can be a divided into two sessions for students in grades 10-12. These students can attend both sessions if they need two classes, or just one session if they only need one class. Session 1 is Week 1-3 and Session 2 is Week 4-6. With this option, 9 graders would attend summer school during Session 2, beginning June 25. This is to accommodate for the last day of school at MVSD (June 7), EMCSD (June 12) as well as VLSD and RSD (June 15). th
Session 1 (students attend both periods 1 & 2 for one semester course credit) Session 2 (students attend both periods 1 & 2 for one semester course credit)
Dates June 5-8 (T-F) June 11-14 (M-Th) June 18-21 (M-Th) June 25-28 (M-Th) July 2-6 (M, T, Th, F) July 9-12 (M-Th)
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5* Week 6
# of Days 4 4 4 4 4 4 24 Total Days
*Please note that there is no school on Wednesday, July 4 for the holiday. th
Below is the daily schedule. Each period is 2 hours and 40 minutes, with a 25-minute nutrition time. DAILY SCHEDULE Period 1: 7:45 am – 10:25 am Nutrition: 10:25 am – 10:50 am Period 2: 10:55 am – 1:35 pm
For further information and registration, please call your home school site.
June 13, 2018
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk
El Monte Union Schools Named to State Honor Roll by Staff Writer El Monte
Two El Monte Union high schools - Arroyo and Rosemead - have been named to the 2017-18 California Honor Roll for demonstrating consistently elevated levels of student academic achievement, narrowing the achievement gap and preparing students for college. The honor is given by the Educational Results Partnership (ERP) and sponsored by the Campaign for Businesses and Educational Excellence (CBEE), based on the results of state standardized tests in math and English language arts (ELA) taken in spring 2017. The program, which this year recognized 1,798 schools in California, is part of a national effort to identify higher-performing schools and districts that are improving student outcomes. Arroyo and Rosemead high schools were identified as Star Schools, a category for high-performing schools with a large popu-
lation of socioeconomically disadvantaged students. “I want to thank our principals for their leadership, motivating our students to perform at grade level and beyond, and establishing a culture of college and career readiness,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “It is an honor for our schools to receive this recognition and serve as models to other schools wanting to replicate their success.” Arroyo is a Gold Ribbon School and Exemplary Arts Program School with a 92 percent graduation rate; Rosemead is also a Gold Ribbon School and a Title 1 Academic Achievement School with an 87 percent graduation rate. Both schools offer a host of learning opportunities aligned to college and career readiness, including a rigorous academic curriculum, career technical education pathways, student leadership activities such as Academic Decathlon and Science Olympiad, as well as academic.
Mid Valley News Sports
LAFC Defeats Fresno FC by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer National / Los Angeles
Last Wednesday LAFC played in their first ever Lamar Hunt US Open Cup game and won 2-0 at home against the USL side Fresno FC. The US Open Cup is a tournament that has been around since 1914 so it is oldest ongoing national soccer competition. The tournament includes teams from the MLS, USL, and NASL the three professional soccer leagues in the U.S. It also includes teams from three premier amateur soccer leagues the PDL, NPSL, and the USASA. For the 2018 there were 97 participating clubs, but they are now down to 16 after last week’s Fourth Round Games or Round of 32 Games. It is a single-game elimination tournament so if you lose you are out. These types of tournament are very common around the world. Unfortunately, in the United States it really falls under the radar. The winner of the tournament is given a berth in the 2019 CONCACAF Champions League. The MLS teams entered the tournament in the Fourth Round. The matchups are decided by region and by a draw. LAFC will be shorthanded the next couple weeks with their two-best goal-scorers Carlos Vela
and Marco Urena are with Mexico and Costa Rica respectively for the World Cup. Nonetheless LAFC fielded a pretty competitive side for this game and they played it with all the seriousness needed. Many MLS sides go into these games over-confident thinking they will dominate the inferior teams from lower-division leagues and sometimes they lose. LAFC got the first goal of the game from Diego Rossi in the 53rd minute after the center referee Mark Allatin first called no-goal and then changed the call after a conference with the linesman. The ball barely crossed the line after a scramble in the penalty box and Allatin didn’t quite see it from his angle. Latif Blessing doubled the lead for LAFC in 56th minute from a bad rebound given up from Fresno goalkeeper Kyle Reynish. LAFC dominated this game from start to finish as they should have playing at home against a USL team. Tickets were only 20 dollars and it was General Admission event so fans could sit really close to the field. LAFC will now play against USL side Sacramento Republic FC at home for the Round of 16 on June 20th (7:30 PM, USsoccer.com broadcast).
FIFA World Cup Preview
by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer National / Los Angeles
The 2018 Men’s FIFA World Cup in Russia will kick off this week when Russia will be taking Saudi Arabia in the opening game from Moscow. The World Cup is a tournament that paralyzes most of the globe for a month with the most popular sport in the world on full display. The best players and teams in the world will be there. There were also some notable nations who failed to qualify. Italy missed the World Cup for the first time since 1958. The United States failed to qualify for the first time since 1986. It’s a long road to make it to World Cup and many good teams don’t qualify. That’s what makes this tournament so special every 4 years. Let’s break down the 32 nations that will be there in what should be a very interesting World Cup. Group A has Russia, Egypt, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Uruguay and Egypt should advance. Host team Russia doesn’t really stand a chance against the teams on paper, but you can never completely rule out the host. Group B has Portugal, Spain, Iran and Morocco. It will be a tough group, but Spain and Portugal should both advance from this group. Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal is arguably the best player in the world right now, so he can be a real differencemaker. In Group C France, Australia, Peru and Denmark. France and Peru should easily advance. In Group D Argentina, Iceland, Croatia and Ni-
geria. Argentina and Croatia should make it but Iceland should be a tough opponent despite it being there first ever World Cup. In Group E, Brazil, Switzerland, Serbia and Costa Rica. Brazil should dominate this group. Second place will be tough, but I will go with Costa Rica. In Group F, Germany, Mexico, South Korea and Sweden. It will be a tough group, but the defending champions Germany should make it along with Mexico. In Group G you have Belgium, Panama, Tunisia and England. Belgium and England should easily advance. In Group H, Poland, Senegal, Colombia and Japan. It is a very tough group, Colombia and Japan should advance. After the Group Stage it will be the knock-out stage with sudden-death games till the end of tournament. The pairings are decided by which group the team is in. An example would be the 1st place of Group A takes on 2nd place of Group B, while the 1st place of Group B takes on the 2nd place of Group A. After my group stage predictions here are my final four teams battling for the World Cup. France will be taking on Brazil in one semifinal. In the other semifinal Argentina will take on Germany. The final will be Brazil and Argentina. I predict Argentina will win the World Cup led by Lionel Messi for their first World Title since 1986. The World Cup always has many surprises so this one will be no different. It will be a great summer for soccer fans around the world.
June 13, 2018
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Your Community Paper of Record
Community Corner MERCED AVENUE PROJECT C O M M U NI T Y W O RK S HO P JOIN US for an introductory workshop with the community to learn more about the Merced Avenue Greenway Project. The street redesign aims to improve public safety, water quality, and community health! June 14th, 2018 6:30pm - 8:00pm South El Monte Senior Center 1556 Central Ave, South El Monte ChildCare and translation available. Contact: MercedAve@gmail.com 626-618-4170
Mid Valley Media Center
Have a Public Notice To Be Published? Call Us at 626.888.1493 or Email Us at info@midvalleymedia.net
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Metro News
Foothill Gold Line Receives $300 Million from the State By Staff Writer El Monte
Today, the Foothill Gold Line light rail project from Glendora to Montclair was awarded nearly $300 million from the California State Transportation Agency’s (CalSTA) Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) for transformative transit and rail projects. The project was one of several major rail investment projects that Los Angeles County Metro submitted for TIRCP grants, with a combined county award of $1.09 billion. TIRCP is part of SB1, with proceeds coming directly from Cap and Trade auctions. The Foothill Gold Line’s TIRCP grant award will be used to fill the estimated funding gap for the $1.5 billion, six-station light rail extension, that will connect Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties. The gap is based on the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority’s latest project estimates; the final project
cost will be known later this year, once bids are received. “Today’s grant award is excellent news for the San Gabriel Valley and our region,” stated Construction Authority CEO, Habib F. Balian, after learning of today’s announcement by CalSTA. “It highlights how the county can successfully leverage our voter-approved tax measures to bring new funds to Los Angeles, allowing us to complete more projects faster - including the Foothill Gold Line.” The Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority is well underway to hire the design-build contractor for the Glendora to Montclair project. In February, four highly-qualified design-build teams were short-listed to compete for the work, and each was sent an Industry Review Draft Request for Proposals shortly thereafter. The RFP is on schedule to be issued late next month, and a contract award is anticipated in October.
After
EMCSD News
EMCSD Announces New Assistant Superintendent, Business Services By Staff Writer El Monte
The El Monte City School District is proud to announce the appointment of José Marcelino Herrera as the new Assistant Superintendent of Business Services for the 2018-2019 school year. Herrera was formerly the Director of Budget and Accounting at East Whittier City School District (EWCSD). In addition to being licensed as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Herrera is certified as a Chief Business Official (CBO) through the California Association of School Business Officials (CASBO). He graduated with honors from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) with a dual degree in Economics and Latin American Studies. Herrera and his wife Elizabeth live in Whittier, both are active members of the community. Elizabeth is a
dance teacher for EWCSD and they are the proud parents of a 16-monthold girl. Herrera enjoys spending time with his family, playing basketball, and performing music with his five siblings who form the musical group Hermanos Herrera. Superintendent Dr. Maribel Garcia said, “We welcome Mr. Herrera to the El Monte City School District family. We know he will be a good fit and look forward to his ideas and stewardship.” Garcia went on to say, “We say a fond good-bye to Kris Olafsson, our current Deputy Assistant Superintendent. We wish him well in his retirement and all of his future endeavors. We are grateful for his forward thinking and tireless work in providing the students of EMCSD with beautiful modern facilities. He will be missed. “
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Mid Valley News
June 13, 2018
into Summer Fun C R O S S W O R D
S u d o k u
Crossword Puzzle solution in issue 6.27.18
Solution for Sudoku in issue 6.27.18
FATHER’S DAY
ACROSS 1. Diner staples 6. Attorneys’ org. 9. “____ farewell,” past tense 13. Fully informed 14. Got a blue ribbon 15. ÿ 16. Short version 17. Geisha’s sash 18. City-like 19. *”Father’s Day” (1997) star 21. *Actual day for dad 23. Center of activity 24. Dried-up 25. Joe Louis’ punch 28. Spiritless 30. Eggnog spice 35. Tangerine/grapefruit hybrid 37. Home to China 39. *Mercer Ellington’s dad played it 40. Old paint hazard 41. Canada’s favorite tree 43. Japanese restaurant staple 44. Garment insert 46. 2nd word in fairytale 47. Outback birds 48. Capital of Canada 50. Largest volcano in Europe 52. “I can ____ clearly now...” 53. Affirm with confidence 55. Last month 57. Rainy season streambeds, in Africa 60. *Kirk Douglas’ son 64. Wrinkle-prone fabric 65. Declare 67. Blood line 68. Medicinal house plants 69. Rocker Adam 70. Hipbone-related 71. Chowder protein 72. Kum Ba ____ 73. This and desist
DOWN 1. *Dad to J. Lo’s twins 2. Pitcher 3. Like a doily 4. Spam destination? 5. Anatomical partition 6. Military no-show 7. *Ziggy Marley’s father 8. Liquorice flavor 9. Charlie “____” Parker 10. Jessica ____ of “Dark Angel” 11. June 6, 1944 12. Literary “even” 15. Adjust, as in piano 20. Perpendicular to the keel 22. Coffin alternative 24. His buddy was Gilligan 25. *Enrique Iglesias’ father 26. ____ provocateur 27. “____ from the past” 29. *Isaac’s firstborn 31. *Most precious gift? 32. Disfigures 33. Follow as a consequence 34. One in a gaggle 36. It comes to mind 38. Loads 42. Tedium 45. Mark and Shania 49. Reverential salutation 51. Greek poetry meter 54. Bacon piece 56. Oar holder 57. *Jaden Smith’s father 58. Dwarf buffalo 59. Hold as a conviction 60. Bigfoot, e.g. 61. “Si, mi chiamo Mimi,” La BohΦme 62. Greek Hs 63. Add booze 64. Lake in Provence 66. Nurses’ org.
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EMCSD Students Earn Prestigious American Legion Award by Staff Writer, San Gabriel Valley / California
Courage, Honor, Leadership, Patriotism, Scholarship and Service –the American Legion places emphasis on the development of these qualities and honors students accordingly. The El Monte City School District is proud to have 12 students earn this award. It is the most prestigious student award given by the district and has been presented to El Monte students since 1939. EMCSD school board members, Jennifer Cobian and Robert Cruz accompanied by Superintendent Dr. Maribel Garcia escorted American Legion members Jay Morales and Issie Deitsch to all six EMCSD middle schools to present American Legion Medals to worthy eighth grade students. The group of dignitaries was greeted at each school with student performances by bands and choirs. Former Marine Jesse J. “Jay” Morales, Adjutant of American Legion Post 8 addressed each audience. Seventh and eighth grade students, parents and staff, listened as Morales gave them a bit of award history and encour-
Courtesy photo
aged them to strive to earn it. Former Merchant Marine William “Issie” Deitsch, a 92-year-old veteran, was one of only 11 survivors on a submarine sunk by the Germans in World War II. Deitsch gave a simple message to the students, “I have one regret in life. It’s that I didn’t finish school. Stay in school.” Each EMCSD middle school honored two students with the American Legion Medal: Gidley – Ileana Rodriguez and Benjamin Wang; Wright – Joseph Schaffer and Kayla Liu; Potrero – Sergio Ramirez and Jayleen DeLaCruz; Columbia – Clarissa Acosta and Xitlalic Palacios; Durfee – Angel Sanchez and Gabriela Marie Sepulveda; Rio Hondo – Mark Alonso Mejia and Caitlyn Le Huynh. Superintendent Dr. Maribel Garcia said, “It was an honor to escort our veterans Jay Morales and Issie Deitsch today.” She went on to say, “I am so proud of our students and their accomplishments in earning this award. These students exemplify the qualities of character and good citizenship.”
June 13, 2018 80 Years of Educating continued from page 1
special reception room featured historical photos, yearbooks from back in the day, and other memorabilia from years past. Former students and staff enjoyed browsing through the items and reminiscing about their time spent on the campus. The special program featured each classroom representing a significant event from 1937 including Amelia Earhart’s disappearance, the formation of the USA Blood Bank, the premier of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the formation of the National Basketball League, Joe Louis’ boxing championship, the publishing of classic novels The Hobbit and Of Mice and Men, and the opening of the Golden Gate Bridge. Former students, Ken Weldon and Donnie Pollet shared their memories of attending the school many years ago and encouraged the current Payne Panthers to work hard and reach for their dreams. They also acknowledged the vital impact of teachers, administrators and support staff who each day make a difference in the lives of students. “I remember fondly the classrooms I was in and the teachers I had,” said Weldon, retired El Monte Police Chief. “My hardest class was when I was in 8th grade and it was that class that did the most for me. The teachers and staff were great when I was going to school here and I regret not telling my teachers how much I appreciated them so students be sure to thank your teachers.” Pollet who started kindergarten at the school in 1947 and graduated 8th grade in 1956, remembers Will Payne, the school’s future namesake, was his principal and was always warm and friendly. He also recalls the huge influx of people into the area after World War II. “Many of my classmates were born outside of California,” said Pollet. “Their families fled the dust bowl of the 1930’s and moved west, settling here in El Monte. The demographics have changed in the community, but it’s still a blue collar town like it was back then. I really enjoyed my time at this school and looking back I have many fond memories of Friday after school dances and of teachers
Your Community Paper of Record who gave me the impetus to pursue a career in aerospace engineering. To all of you students, life is ahead of you, be sure to learn to write well and express yourself, it’s immensely important and will be your biggest asset.” he said. Representatives from L.A. County Supervisor Hilda Solis’ office, Assemblyman Ed Chau’s office and Senator Blanca Rubio’s office presented the Dr. Hugo Moreno, Payne’s current principal, with special certificates and proclamations honoring Payne’s 80 years. “What makes an institution great is not the buildings but the people in them,” said Evan Lu, a field representative for Assemblyman Ed Chau from the 49th Assembly District. “Students you are this community’s future leaders and you have a very bright future ahead of you. Congratulations to Payne School on 80 wonderful years of education and on behalf of Assemblyman Chau, we wish you many more successful years educating our future leaders.” Former students, Sandra Llamas, Guadalupe Martinez and Lupe Llamas had a great time at the celebration and reminiscing about their time on campus. “We attended school here in the mid 70’s and one of my favorite memories was when my 4th grade teacher, Mrs. McEntire played the piano and we sang. We loved our time at Payne School. I also found my tile on the wall in the hallway, it’s still here,” she said referring to a wall of student painted tiles that still remain from years gone by. Concluding the celebration, the Payne Panther mascot took the stage with a large 80th birthday cake and everyone sang happy birthday before enjoying refreshments. “Thank you all for joining us for this wonderful celebration and making today a special day for our school,” said Dr. Moreno. “You all make a difference in the lives of our students and we are grateful for your support. Our 80th Anniversary Committee did an extraordinary job putting together this wonderful celebration and their efforts are greatly appreciated. We look forward to continuing the exceptional instruction that has been provided at this wonderful campus for many more years.”
Hundreds of Employment Opportunities Available at Annual El Monte Job Fair By: Staff Writer El Monte
You may be thinking of skipping the 2018 Annual El Monte Job Fair. Don’t. It could be your ticket to getting a job or improving your current employment situation. Unemployment in the San Gabriel Valley (SGV) has been falling, with most current data showing a 4.2% unemployment rate, according to a report by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation. Despite the regional decrease, the City of El Monte is among the cities in the SGV with the highest unemployment rate. To connect the community to employment opportunities, the City of El Monte is hosting a FREE job fair.
With over 50 vendors, representing companies such as Amtrak, Caltrans, Courtyard by Marriott, Valley Vista Services and more, Employers are looking to fill open positions and will be accepting applications for jobs on the spot. Vendors were only invited to this event if they had positions available. So if you see a vendor, you see a job opportunity. The City of El Monte recommends that participants bring several copies of their resumes, as experts will be available to review resumes. Most professionals and consultants recommend at least ten copies of your resume and a copy of your portfolio, depending on your choice of career. The City of El Monte’s Job Fair has El Monte Job Fair continued on page 8
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“Connie’s Comments” by Connie Keenan El Monte
I’ve lived in El Monte for most of my life. I’ve seen it grow and change. It’s no longer the community of my childhood. Or teen years for that matter. Nor should it be. In the late 50s I used to catch the bus on Garvey to take me downtown. It would take me to the El Monte bus station on Tyler, just behind W. T. Grants which was located on the corner of Valley and Tyler. On the south east corner was Security Pacific Bank and next to the bank, the El Monte Theater. Cutting through Grants I would look at the newest make up and try the different fragrances. I could window shop at Mode O’Day or cross the street to J.C. Penney; then ogle the clothes at Richard’s for Women. I could never afford to shop at Richard’s. The clothing was so elegant and sophisticated. I was elated when I was given an outfit of my choosing after winning the title of Miss El Monte. My destination, back then, was Walter’s Cigar and Magazine Shop where I would stand for hours to look at movie magazines hoping to find articles about my favorite stars. Depending on how much money
I had, I would stop at Thrifty Drug store and have a hot fudge sundae. Or the Karmel Korn Shop to get something to nibble. If I had more money I would grab a seat at the counter at Grants and order a grilled cheese sandwich and Coke imagining I was at Sardi’s or Brown Derby eating lunch with someone famous. I used to think El Monte revered its past but last Friday, sitting at the “Office” at El Sombrero, we watched as a backhoe took huge chunks out of the Historic Landmark known as the Osmond House. The Osmond House was built in the 1890s and was donated to the City by the owners. It was moved to the Santa Anita location in 1985. It was designated an official California Historic Landmark complete with a Conestoga wagon. Yes, El Monte changed a great deal. Some of the changes are wonderful others not so much. I knew my neighbors. Most of the people on my block have no clue who their neighbors are nor do they seem to care. Rumor has it that apartments will take the spot once occupied by the Osmond House. I wonder what those future residents will remember about El Monte.
Cracker Barrel
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“Working Overtime” “Working Overtime,”will return in our next edition. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Mountain View School District Hosts 17th Annual Student Chess Competition By: Staff Writer El Monte
Mountain View School District’s 17th Annual Chess Competition featured the District’s talented chess players in fourth through eighth grade putting their mental gaming talents to the test. Representing six of the District’s 12 schools, the young chess strategists gathered at Madrid Middle School for the competition and excitedly showed off their chess playing skills. The competition was divided into three levels based on years of experience playing the game. The competition was intense as students calculated moves, strategized, and maneuvered their pieces with the goal of checkmating their opponents’ King. Several MVSD schools have Chess Clubs which meet regularly providing students the opportunity to learn the game of strategy and logic and perfect their skills. Research shows
that playing chess has great benefits for kids including improving visual memory, attention span and spatialreasoning ability. Playing chess also enhances reading and math skills because it requires decoding, thinking, comprehension and analysis and fosters logic, critical thinking and creativity. The origins of chess date back almost 1500 years ago in Eastern India. Sometime during the 13th century, the game made an appearance in Europe where changes were made and evolved into the game we recognize today. Dr. Jeff Lagozzino, Director of Student Learning Support, thanked the school site chess coaches and competition coordinators for providing such a great event for students. He also thanked the students for their good sportsmanship and enthusiasm. All the competitors received a 2018 Chess Competition Medal and the
Chess Competition continued on page 8
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Mid Valley News
Memorial Day continued from page 1
States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars. Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1971. “We come together on Memorial Day to pay respect to our men and women in service who unselfishly gave their lives to protect ours,” said Mayor Pro Tem Juventino “J” Gomez. “We must keep their noble act present in our hearts.”
El Monte Job Fair continued from page 1
been able to bring employment opportunities to thousands of community members. Last year, over 3,000 jobs were available to more than 2,500 participants. Plan to network, meet contacts and dress for success…your future may depend on it. For more information, contact the City of El Monte Administration Office at 626-580-2001.
The Mid Valley News is published Bi - weekly on Thursday by Mid Valley Media Center, LLC
Rio Hondo College Celebrates 2017-18 Graduates by Staff Writer El Monte
California state Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon congratulated graduates at Rio Hondo College’s 55th annual Commencement Ceremony on May 24 and urged them to “make a difference.” “We have to look out for each other,” Calderon said during the event’s keynote speech. “You’ve all killed it to get here today, but the work doesn’t stop here. The fight always goes on. … Now go out there, make a difference and remember that if you can do this, you can do anything.” The ceremony recognized 1,399 students who earned an estimated 2,001 academic degrees, including 653 degrees for transfer, which guarantee admission to the California State University system. Both figures top the College’s numbers for 201617. Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss told students that the sacrifices they made to achieve their degrees were worth it. She said she understood the sense of accomplishment that comes from achieving their degrees, comparing it to her journey as an immigrant to the U.S. from Tai-
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June 13, 2018
wan to becoming the College’s president. “Our faculty, staff and administrators are here to honor and salute you,” Dreyfuss said. Board of Trustees President Madeline Shapiro told students that their achievement has the power to change not only their lives, but those of their families. “Many of you are the first in your family to have made it this far in higher education. Many of you are the first in your family to have set foot on a college campus. And, many of you are the first in your family to walk with a cap and gown on stage to receive a college diploma,” Shapiro said. Shapiro announced the 2018 Fellow of the College, Dr. Jennifer Fernandez, who retired after serving 42 years as an educator. Over 31 years, Fernandez served Rio Hondo College as a counselor, professor, director of student development, coordinator of the College’s South Whittier Educational Center and interim dean of student affairs. She helped develop
plans for the Child Development Center and for the redesign of Student Health Psychological Services. “This award is reserved to those who make outstanding contributions to the progress and development of Rio Hondo College,” Shapiro said. “Dr. Jen’s selection for this award reflects her dedication to our campus and advocacy for our students.” Associated Students of Rio Hondo College (ASRHC) President Martin Covarrubias – who helped develop Rio Hondo College’s food pantry program, the RioSource Room – said students faced many challenges during their time at Rio Hondo College. For him, that moment came when his grandfather died. “My world came crashing down, so fast, I couldn’t snap out of it and be the positive person I am 24/7,” he said. “But, I finally did because I remembered my dream as a little boy: that of always wanting to do big things, things like this.” In fall, Covarrubias will transfer to UC Riverside as a liberal studies major.
Chess Competition Continued from page 7
top five players were awarded with a championship level chess board. Congratulations to all the chess competitors from Baker, Kranz, La Primaria, Monte Vista, Parkview and Voorhis and to the Chess Champions from Parkview, Voorhis, and Baker Schools.
Editor: Staff
Contributing Writers Connie Keenan Dick James Devette Johnson Michael McClure Mike Nelson Mid Valley Media Center, LLC, all contents here in are copyrighted and may not be reproduce in any manner, either in whole or in part, without the expressed written consent of the publisher. The views and opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily that of the management and staff of Mid Valley Media Center, LLC. Adjudicated as a paper of general circulation in the City of El Monte, County of Los Angeles Superior Court, Nov. 7 1973. No. C68383 official paper for the County of Los Angeles, Adjudicated on general circulation Los Angeles July 18, 1992, No. BS016380
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