Sports
Chalk Talk
LA Rams page 4
Community Events, page 2 - 3
The Community Paper of Record
Vol. 55, No. 18
Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966
September 05, 2018
Mountain View School District Students Excited as New School Year Begins by Staff Writer El Monte
The Mountain View School District was thrilled to welcome back students for the start of the 2018-19 school year at the District’s 12 schools, Magnolia Learning Center and Children’s Center/Head Start State Preschool. “The start of a new school year brings a sense of hope and renewal and every member of our team is looking forward to a great year and providing all of our students with positive learning experiences,” said Lillian Maldonado French, Superintendent. Students eagerly entered the gates of their schools to greet their teachers and reunite with friends. “I’m excited to be back at school! It’s fun to be with my friends and see my teacher,” said a 3rd grader at Maxson School. “I think I’m going to learn a lot of new things in third grade.”
Along with the excitement, there were a few tears from some of the young Transitional Kindergarten and
Kindergarten students, but with reassurance from their teachers and staff members who comforted them in the
transition to school, they settled in and enjoyed their first day. New School Year continued on page 8
Back to School Resource Fair a Great Success by Staff Writer El Monte
Families and children starting a new school year will have a brighter beginning thanks to the El Monte Back-to-School Resource Fair. Over 1,100 children received much-needed school supplies on August 18 at the El Monte Valley Mall. Families patiently waited to enter the resource fair as the line wrapped around Valley Boulevard. Ernestina De Real, a mother of five, said the wait was worthwhile. “This [event] is very important because sometimes we can’t buy the school supplies,” said De Real. “It’s a lot of help to my family.” K-12 students received their choice of blue, green, black or red backpacks. As they made their way down Valley Mall, children stuffed their backpacks with pencils, crayons, highlighters, notebooks, folders and more. “It was a wonderful community event, with families lining up as early as 5 a.m.,” said El Monte Councilmember Victoria Martinez. “The joy that new school supplies, haircuts, socks and shoes bring is heartwarming. We are so thankful to our sponsors, supporters, staff and Council for making this event possible.”
Students display happiness after receiving school supplies. Courtesy Photo.
Children also received other necessities including toothbrushes, toothpaste, shoes and bike helmets. Ten lucky winners also received a new
cell phone from Cricket Wireless. “This means everything,” said Elizabeth Aldrete, a single mother who recently moved to El Monte.
“It’s a confirmation that there is hope for us. It gives us a sense to keep goResource Fair continued on page 8
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Mid Valley News
September 05, 2018
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk
A Message from the Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga, Superintendent, El Monte Union High School District
Two 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 high 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 population 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 support to accelerate student success and improve educational equity.
El Monte Union Welcomes More than 8,000 Students for 2018-19 School Year by Staff Writer El Monte
The El Monte Union High School District launched the 2018-19 school year on Aug. 20, welcoming nearly 1,200 teachers, staff and administrators and over 8,000 students across its schools. But before students headed back to their campuses, the District kicked off the school year with its annual Opening of School program for staff at El Monte High School, where Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga reminded teachers why they matter and the importance they have in students’ lives. “The opening of school comes with excitement, a burst of new energy and another opportunity to make a difference in every student’s life,” Zuniga said. “It is up to us to use this influence to remove barriers, support students in their challenges and give them access to the knowledge and information that will prepare them to be successful in their future endeavors.” This year, El Monte Union is welcoming nine new teachers and three administrators. The District also recognized its 2018-19 Teacher of the Year, Cesar Castellanos. “We educate children, we care for
them, nurture them, foster their learning and watch them grow,” said Castellanos, an English teacher at South El Monte High School and a Rosemead High School alumnus. “It’s part of our job. Your actions and the time you invest in students add up to shape an individual, their future and their trajectory.” During the program, 49 employees who have reached 25-, 30-, 35-, 40or 45-year anniversary milestones in the District – a combined 1,380 years of service – were recognized. The program, which included several student performances – was followed by a week of professional development training, during which teachers received personalized training in various subjects and collaborated with peers on best practices. Prior to the start of school, EMUHSD schools welcomed approximately 2,162 freshmen for an orientation led by Link Crew leaders. Link Crew leaders will serve as mentors to the first-year students and provide them guidance, support and friendship. During orientation, students enjoyed the bands, drill teams and cheerleader performances, and learned about school policies, clubs and sports opportunities. 8000 Students continued on page 3
September 05, 2018
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Your Community Paper of Record
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk
by Staff Writer El Monte
Protecting wildlife as a natural resource for future generations is the focus of a new architectural design and engineering pathway expected to launch this fall at Mountain View High School. The science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) program, “Zoo Crew: Engineers Gone Wild!” will allow students the opportunity to study the health and well-being of animals in the wild. The course will also challenge students to create solutions that promote environmental sustainability while maintaining the delicate balance between developing metropolitan areas and adjoining natural habitats. “Zoo Crew is a career technical education pathway designed for students who are eager to engage with their peers in real-world, projectbased learning,” said Mountain View engineering teacher Lee Porter, who
El Monte Union Zoo Crew Program Seeks to Engage Students in STEM
will lead the program. “Every class lesson will center on a different aspect of animal protection, whether designing and building a feral dog shelter, a wildlife crossing structure or a zoo habitat.” Students in the program will be introduced to the four major branches of engineering and learn how each branch relates to helping wildlife as they develop the engineering mindset – taking an idea from the brainstorming stage all the way through to completion. Students will use Autodesk Inventor and 3D printers to become proficient at 2-D and 3-D computeraided design (CAD) and animation. Year one of the program will concentrate on basic engineering principles as students gradually build their skill sets. Students will listen to guest speakers, take field trips to the Los Angeles and San Diego zoos, and observe animals in the classroom. The
following year becomes more challenging, incorporating physics and animatronics as students engage in more complex projects to preserve and protect wildlife. School officials hope the pathway will motivate more female and underrepresented students to explore STEM fields. “The prospect of studying engineering can be daunting for many students who don’t realize that they hold the key to success with their own creative talents,” Porter said. “Zoo Crew is a way to engage the students emotionally and initiate projects that will have an immediate impact, while receiving a thorough and rigorous introduction to engineering and environmental science through fun and challenging activities like building a villa for a chinchilla.” The Zoo Crew pathway was created thanks to a Specialized Secondary
Program (SSP) grant from the California Department of Education. The grant includes $110,000 to implement the curriculum for the 2018-19 school year and an additional $75,000 for 2019-20. “The Zoo Crew design and engineering pathway reflects the District’s commitment to providing every student, including those who may think engineering is out of their reach, the opportunity to pursue and explore STEM subjects,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “Our creative and talented team has put together a curriculum that engages students and inspires them to want to learn more.” For more information on how to enroll, contact a school counselor or the Guidance Office at Mountain View High School by calling (626) 443-6181. For any questions regarding the program, email lee.porter@emuhsd.org.
El Monte Union Engineering Program Debuts with African Wildcat Visit by Staff Writer
Wildlife Learning Center presents endangered serval to 50 students at Mountain View High School A special visit by an African wildcat made the first day of the 201819 school year extra special for 50 Mountain View High School students who are members of the school’s inaugural Zoo Crew: Engineers Gone Wild! program, an engineering pathway that focuses on animal protection and preservation. Students packed into the school’s Media Center to hear Wildlife Learning Center representatives explain the characteristics and behaviors of the exotic animal they were about to meet – the serval, a long-legged, long-eared wildcat found mostly in the African Savanna. The serval is the first animal the ninth- and 10thgrade students encountered as part of the new Zoo Crew program. “It was really informative and entertaining,” said Judy Ung, a 10thgrader who plans to major in biology or engineering in college. Designed to be a gender-neutral career technical education pathway, Zoo Crew was launched this year thanks to a grant from the California Department of Education and support from other donors and industry part-
8000 Students Continued from page 2
ners. The program will provide students with the opportunity to explore architectural design and engineering – disciplines that students often find daunting and challenging. “We wanted to create a STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) program that would interest all students, from those who want to be future engineers to those who have an interest, but are hesitant to take that leap,” said Mountain View engineer-
ing teacher Lee Porter, who will lead the program. “Zoo Crew, which combines a love of animals with principles of engineering and environmental science, will change our students’ outlook on what it means to be a scientist.” Students in the program will be introduced to the four major branches of engineering and learn how each branch relates to the health and wellbeing of animals in the wild.
Mountain View High Schools students, members of the new Zoo Crew engineering program listen to a Wildlife Learning Center representative explain the characteristics of the serval, a long-legged, long-eared African wildcat, on the first day of school on Aug. 20. The serval is the first animal the ninth- and 10th-grade students encountered as part of the program. Courtesy photo
Students will have the opportunity to explore a number of career technical education programs, including the new Zoo Crew: Engineers Gone Wild!, award-winning Teacher
Preparation Academy and new Early College Academy in partnership with Rio Hondo College. “We wish the entire EMUHSD family an exciting and successful school
Lessons will focus on different aspects of animal protection and challenge students to create solutions that protect biodiversity while connecting people with wildlife. Students can explore designing and building structures such as a feral dog shelter, zoo habitat or a villa for a chinchilla. They will use Autodesk Inventor and 3D printers to become proficient at 2-D and 3-D computer-aided design (CAD) and animation. Year one of the program will concentrate on basic engineering principles as students gradually build their skills. Students will listen to guest speakers, take field trips to the Los Angeles and San Diego zoos, and observe animals in the classroom. The following year will be more challenging, incorporating physics and animatronics as students engage in more complex projects to preserve and protect wildlife. This includes maintaining the delicate balance between the needs of commuters and the needs of animals crossing roads in search of food and shelter. “I joined Zoo Crew because I wanted to explore my career options,” said 10th-grade student Brianna Lopez. “I want to learn more about how to help animals and people in everyday life.” year,” Zuniga said. “We look forward to working together in achieving what we collectively want for students – college and career readiness.”
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Mid Valley News
September 05, 2018
Mid Valley News Sports
Hobbie and Titans Run Wild Through El Monte by Duane Barker , courtesy of Mid Valley Sports.com El Monte
Beau Hobbie rushed for 245 yards and five touchdowns in the first half
B
El Monte got three scores from Davon Booth but it wasn’t near enough. Courtesy Photo by Duane Baker, Mid Valley Sports.
as the San Marino Titans played the roll of rude guests and in the end beat the El Monte Lions 76-36 Friday night at El Monte High School. In total Hobbie carried the ball 23 times for 297 yards and six touchdowns and the Titan offense amassed 414 total rushing yards. On the other side the El Monte offense showed what teams have been seeing early on this season. Big helpings of Davon Booth and Ben Owsley who combined for 262-yards and four scores on the ground. San Marino wasted no time getting on the board going 68 yards on six plays with Hobbie scooting in from 27 yards away. Jordan Evans added the extra point for the 7-0 lead. El Monte only needed two plays on the ensuing drive to take the lead. Owsley took the handoff on the second play from scrimmage for the Lions and raced 65-yards to paydirt. Booth got the call and added the 2-point conversion. The 8-7 lead would be the only lead El Monte saw on the night. Sean Richardson got in on the scoring barrage taking the ensuing kick off 82 yards for the touchdown and with Evans’ extra point, the Titans had the lead again. San Marino scored two more times in the quarter on a scoop and score of an Owsley fumble by Keaton Heimerl and a 16-yard run by Hobbie. El Monte countered with a score of
its own on a 65-yard run by Booth. Booth finished the night gaining 151 yards on 14 carries with three total scores. When the teams got a chance to catch their breath at the end of the first quarter, San Marino was up 2816. The teams traded scores to begin the second period on a one-yard run by - who else - Hobbie, and an 86yard kick return by Booth. Two more Hobbie scores and a 33-yard touchdown run by Booth put the score at 49-30 with 5:00 left in the half. The Titans capped the first half touchdown barrage with a 42-yard touchdown strike from Kade Wentz to Wheeler Smith. The Lions got the ball to start the second half but were unable to produce much yardage and gave up the ball on downs at the San Marino 44. San Marino took advantage of the good field position and marched 66-yards on five plays with none other than Hobbie getting the call from seven yards out. Evans’ leg must have been a little tired after all the work he was getting, and he missed the extra point this time.El Monte got its final score of the night on a 16-yard run by Owsley. The two-point conversion failed, and the Lions trailed 69-36. Owsley totaled 111 yards and two touchdowns. The Titans final two scores came on a 24-yard run by Wheeler and a two-yard run by Connor Short who came on late to replace
Wentz. San Marino will return home next week to take on Santa Fe while El Monte will travel to Perris , CA to meet Orange Vista.
Ed Note: This article originally appeared online at MidValleySports.com and is reprinted here with permission from MidValleySports.com. For the best sports writing, coverage, and passion, we encourage our readers to visit MidValleySports.com. All rights reserved by MidValleySports.com.
Stellar night for Beau Hobbie in the Titans win over El Monte. Courtesy Photo by Duane Baker, Mid Valley Sports.
Los Angeles Football Season Preview: Los Angeles Rams 2018 Season Preview
by Mike Nelson, Contributing Sports Writer National / Los Angeles
The NFL season kicks off this week and it should be once again an interesting season. The Los Angeles Rams will start the season Monday night on the road against the Oakland Raiders. The Rams have high expectations this season and believe they are a Super
Bowl contender. The Rams strengthened their already potent offense with the acquisition of WR Brandin Cooks from the New England Patriots. The defense should be on fire this season with all the new faces in the lineup. The Rams got CB Sam Shields from the Packers and CB Aqib Talib from the Broncos. They also got CB Marcus Peters from the Chiefs, so the
interception numbers should be improved this season. However, the biggest and best moves was getting Defensive Tackle Ndamukong Suh from the Dolphins a one year, 20-million-dollar deal and signing DE Aaron Donald – who recently ended his holdout with a record 6-year, 135-million-dollar extension. Suh and DE Aaron Donald will carry the defense all
Suh, Brockers, Donald LA Rams FB. Courtesy Photo
season. The Rams still have QB Jared Goff and RB Todd Gurley and they will be better this season. Goff was essentially a rookie last season so expect him to dominate. Gurley will continue toward becoming the best RB in the league. Second year Head Coach Sean McVay proved last season he is a good coach and by playing for a championship could be regarded as great. The Rams on paper could be the best team in the NFL. But can they handle the pressure? Will this team live up to the hype in a league about results? I expect the Rams to win the NFC west win the Super Bowl. Los Angeles Chargers 2018 Season Preview The Los Angeles Chargers open their season this Sunday at home against the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chargers are once again a team with a lot of questions on both sides of the ball. They still have DE’s Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram – who combined for 23 sacks last season – anchoring the line but losing Safety Jaylen Watkins for the season with a Torn ACL will hurt. This defense can be good but the line still has problems and that will be an issue. The Chargers have QB Phillip Rivers who use his veteran leadership to carry the team in the tight games. RB Melvin Gordon will have to be a domiLA Rams Season continued on page 7
September 05, 2018
Your Community Paper of Record
Page 5
Community Corner
Rio Hondo College Students Return for Start of Fall Semester Rio Hondo College buzzed on Monday with the sounds of returning and first-year students greeting each other, connecting with friends and exploring their academic home for the coming year. First-year student Matthew Amperano joined a steady stream of new students receiving advice and, in some cases, a guide to their first classes from an information booth staffed by peer mentors and members of the Associated Students of Rio Hondo College. “It’s always exciting when the students arrive for the first day of their college careers and return as knowledgeable leaders and friends,” Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss
said. “Each year, we try to give them a new, more amazing experience with continued growth of new programs and services to ensure their success.” Amperano has long planned his attendance of Rio Hondo College, lured by the College’s strong Administration of Justice program. He hopes to complete his general education requirements and continue his studies at Cal State Fullerton en route to becoming a K-9 officer. The College’s stellar public safety program includes a Police Academy, Fire Academy and nursing program. This fall, Rio Hondo launched an Associate of Science degree in homeland security to prepare students for entry-level jobs in the high-demand
New and returning students flooded the Rio Hondo College campus on Monday, Aug. 20, setting the campus abuzz as they connected with each other, searched out classes and launched into their 2018-19 academic adventures. Courtesy photo
field and for advanced homeland seHolguin, who is studying biology, curity studies at four-year colleges or chose Rio Hondo College because it universities. was more affordable than University Amperano was on campus for one of California, Irvine, where she was class on Saturday, Aug. 18 – the offialso accepted. She was thankful for cial first day of the fall semester – but the guide, who helped her navigate a was still a little daunted on Monday, crowd of fellow students just after 9 when most students started. a.m. “I’ve heard it’s small, but it looks “There’s a lot of people. I’m kind big to me. And there are a lot of of nervous,” said Holguin, a Pioneer hills,” said Amperano, a Whittier High graduate. High graduate. Student information booth workers A student guide escorted new stuhelped a number of students overdent Victoria Holguin up one of Rio Hondo Students Return continued on page 7 those hills to her first class.
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Mid Valley News
September 05, 2018
into Summer Fun C R O S S W O R D
S u d o k u
Crossword Puzzle solution in issue 9.19.18
Solution for Sudoku in issue 9.19.18
ACROSS
FOOTBALL
1. Hunk 5. Cough syrup amt. 8. “Scene one, ____ one” 12. Grand theft target 13. Broflovski of “South Park” 14. Polished surface of gem 15. Simpleton 16. A in A = b x h 17. Tarzan’s swing rope 18. *Dream football destination 20. Medley 21. Olden-day Celts 22. *Mo. of NFL preseason games 23. Confine a river 26. Khufu’s resting place 30. ____ Tsu 31. First little piggy 34. List of chores 35. *First black head coach to win Super Bowl 37. Computer network acronym 38. Rank 39. “... happily ____ after” 40. *Team conference 42. Dress like Ancient Greeks 43. What’s left 45. *NFL teams play at least 8 games here 47. Slow-witted 48. Like Cinderella’s ball gown 50. Blade in Litchfield 52. *Worth 6 56. “Madama Butterfly,” e.g. 57. Mythological hominid 58. Annette Castellano on “The Mindy Project” 59. Evil one 60. ____ gum on a list of ingredients 61. Pains 62. Site of original sin 63. Operations 64. Fountain order
DOWN 1. Cul de ____, pl. 2. Lululemon on NASDAQ 3. At the apex 4. Hispanic grocery and wine shop 5. Innsbruck’s province 6. Lots and lots 7. Sound of thunder 8. *What fans do before the game 9. ____ bowl, Brazilian dish 10. Bingo-like game 11. 7th letter of Greek alphabet 13. Japanese theater 14. Miller’s product 19. Went past 22. Sailor’s “yes” 23. Village V.I.P. 24. Shade of violet 25. Fox crime drama, 20052017 26. “On Golden ____,” movie 27. *”Go Pack Go” to Green Bay Packers? 28. “Pulling my leg,” e.g. 29. Evade a ball 32. It binds 33. Little bit 36. *Playing field 38. “Bring back!” to Fido 40. Refrigerator sound 41. Jousting match participant 44. Parlor piece 46. Monster with nine heads, pl. 48. Get overcast 49. Saintly glows 50. Hightailed it 51. Blood component 52. Pizza for home, e.g. 53. *Home to Bengals 54. Join by heating 55. U.S. space agency 56. Schiller’s poem
Head Start Education Programs Work By Ethan Peschansky, Contributing Writer National
Options for Learning has been helping to improve the standard of living since 1981. Their focus on health and early education have assisted families throughout the community in escaping poverty and giving them the tools they need for success later in life. It’s that culture of assistance that makes their Head Start program invaluable to the city of South El Monte. Head Start offers a wide range of services and support for families enrolled in the program. Federally funded, Head Start is a half-day preschool for 3 and 4-year-old children. Morning and afternoon classes are available and home classes are also an option. Head Start is a federal program that provides early childhood education, health,
nutrition, and parent involvement services to low-income children and their families “to foster stable family relationships, enhance children’s physical and emotional wellbeing, and to develop strong cognitive skills.” The program’s services and resources create stable family relationships, enhance children’s physical and emotional well-being, and create an environment to exercise academic skills. The transition from preschool to elementary school requires children to engage with their peers outside the family network, adjust to the space of a classroom, and meet the expectations of day to day school activities. Launched in 1965, Head Start was originally a summer school program that would teach low-income
children what they needed to know to start elementary school. The program was revised and expanded in 2007 and is now one of the largest combatting poverty in the United States. According to the National Head Start Association, the program helps more than 1 million children every year. Head Start and services like them are proven to have a positive long-term effect for their clients and the community. Research has shown that these programs lead to a higher chance of better grades, lower crime rates, and higher income and graduation rates. Outside of El Monte, there are a number of cities in the San Gabriel Valley where Head Start is active. West Covina, Temple City, and Hacienda Heights are just a few of their other locations. Head Start has been productive in its enrollment and oversees the early education and health of thousands of children. According to their Annual Report, over 2600 children between the age of three and five were served as well as 150 children between birth and three years old. For families interested in enrolling their child, enrollment can be done online or by calling (626) 4594299. Their South El Monte office is located at 1330 N. Potrero Avenue, South El Monte, CA 91733.
September 05, 2018
Webb’s Rule HE WAS NUMBER ONE
by Eugene R. Webb When my son was playing Little League Baseball; I thought he was the greatest player of all. I was his biggest fan; And he was my little man. Not just I, but many people thought he played well; He liked having me there to yell. At Short Stop he was first rate; As a Pitcher, he was really great. He was a cute little guy, with short legs;
continued from page 4
nant player for this team to win games. With Rivers now aged 36, Gordon will have to convert more 3rd and shorts that Rivers used to execute. WR Keenan Allen is the most talented player on this roster and he is a crucial part of the team’s successes. Second year Head Coach Anthony
I bragged about him all the time; He was a good ballplayer and he was mine. I think the number on his back, tells the story about my son; Out of all those little players, he was Number One.
Lynn will have to show he can coach this team down the stretch in a tight division. The AFC West is wide open with none of the teams coming forward as a favorite. The Chargers can win this division and make the playoffs. They just have to find a way to win the tight games. I see the Chargers and Raiders competing for the division, but they just won’t have enough and will miss the playoffs for a second straight season.
by Connie Keenan El Monte
Continued from page 5
ferent programs,” she said. The two arrived just before 9 a.m. but avoided the annual first-day parking rush by snagging spots by the softball field. Second-year student Samuel Cox, who is studying history, said he continues to be struck by Rio Hondo College’s hilltop location even as construction continues to improve the campus L Tower, one of its most distinctive buildings. Cox said he’s enjoyed strong teachers in a variety of subjects and participating on the College’s award-winning Forensics Speech and Debate team. “Rio Hondo College’s goal is to provide all our students with incredible opportunities for success – through academics, careers and ways to engage their communities,” Board of Trustees President Madeline Shapiro said. “Welcome to all our new scholars and welcome back to those returning for the next step in their higher education journeys.”
Cracker Barrel
“Eating, Politicking, Lots of Backpacks, and More Perks of The Elite Media” by: Mike McClure, Staff Writer El Monte
…so last Thursday night I attended the “Annual Summer Bar-B-Que” at the Jack Crippen Multipurpose Senior Center here in El Monte. Actually, it was the second time that day that I was at the Center. Earlier I had lunch there. As many of you know I am a senior and I live in El Monte, so I like to keep an eye on how our seniors are treated and every Thursday lunch is served at the Center (it’s only a $2.00 donation - can’t beat that!). The Mayor was at the Bar-B-Que along with Councilmen Velasco and Gomez. I also saw Jonathan Hawes, our City Clerk and Alex Hamilton the City Manager enjoying themselves. The Mayor must have been in campaign mode because as soon as the music started he busted a couple of moves with some of the ladies in attendance. He did say a few words of welcome and told a couple of jokes, but any smart politician knows that when the music starts at a senior’s event get out of the way and let us dance. Later I saw Larry Fry, the Mayor’s opponent in the up-
I’m not used to school starting in August. When I was a kid, in the 50’s and 60’s, school started after Labor Day. August was the month that moms started sewing or shopping for school clothing. Mama would go to J.C. Penney’s in downtown El Monte (now known as the Valley Mall. The building that housed Penney’s now contains cubicles
where various vendors sell sundry items), to buy fabric to make our school dresses. Then, girls could only wear dresses to school. If the price of fabric was too high, Mama would trek over to Crawford’s Market. According to blogger Gary Cliser, Crawford’s Market opened in 1937 in El Monte at Five Points on the corner of Valley and Garvey. They called it “The Biggest Little Country Store!” The store was owned by Leemoria Barbara and Wayland Howard Crawford, who opened
the first store in Los Angeles with a produce stand in the City of Bell. The couple realized the San Gabriel Valley was better suited for a large market and opened stores in Alhambra, Montebello, El Monte and Rosemead. The El Monte Store was the largest of the chain. It housed a Van de Kamp’s bakery, a snack bar, a barber shop, jewelry store, shoe repair and even an ice cream stand. Whether in Crawford’s or Penney’s Mama would finger each bolt of fabric, look at the price, then go to the next, until she found material that she
Connie’s Comments continued on page 8
“Working Overtime”
“I Still Remember”
Rio Hondo Students Return come similar uncertainties, as well as directing them to financial aid offices, the First Year Success Center and other student services. The College is known for its strong array of support services, including tutoring programs, programs to guide students along their chosen courses and services for students in financial need or who have been part of the foster care system. Many students on Monday were returning for their second of third year of studies, navigating the campus like seasoned professionals. Sophomores Taylor Alcala and Miranda Fernandez laughed together as they climbed the stairs near the campus quad. The two met during summer conditioning for the school’s softball team before their first year. Fernandez, a Covina resident who is studying psychology, started at Whittier College but decided to enroll in Rio Hondo College. “The programs are good here and they have good diversity as far as dif-
“Connie’s Comments”
Off of the bases, the runner he would peg. I loved to watch him steal a base or two; When he ran, he actually flew.
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LA Rams Season
Page 7
Your Community Paper of Record
by Dick James El Monte “Working Overtime” by: Dick James will not appear in today’s issue, Mr. James is taking some time off and special guest columnist “Ravishing” Ray Regalado fills in with the final part of his threepart series “I Still Remember”.
“The Flairs” (“She wants to Rock” and “This is the Nite”) or he sang solo or with his group “Richard Berry and The Dreamers” but it was “Richard Berry and the Pharaohs” that recorded “Louie Louie” and “Have Love Will Travel” 1986, once we had the band together, I got The Richard Berry Show to perform at my
coming election, get up and show off a few dance moves himself (pretty impressive for a big guy, hmmm…maybe instead of a debate they should have a dance off?). I understand that the Mid Valley News will not endorse any candidate, but there are some key issues I write about that if I don’t see being addressed, I will bring to your attention. Supervisor Solis has outlined an aggressive, pro-active agenda to deal with the homeless problem, Veteran housing issues and comprehensive health care (particularly for the seniors) for this District and these are issues that the Cities of El Monte and South El Monte can/should be leaders in. Our school leaders are doing an outstanding job for our kids, competing with surrounding more affluent district and continually be recognized for their excellence. Our youngsters deserve leadership from the elected officials as well. The recent “Back to School Resource Fair” at the Mall here in El Monte was a great example of how the coop-
high schools 25th reunions. The first was for Lincoln High School at the Police Academy. It was a blast!!; the Lincoln H.S. folks loved it and danced a lot. Second was the Eagle Rock High reunion…it didn’t go well. The Eagle Rock folks wanted to talk, not dance and party. They complained a lot and would have been better off listening to some piped in Lawrence Welk music. I learned a lesson, know your audience!! Richard got a gig in Toronto; Etta James, an old friend of his, had set it up. He asked if I would like to go along…of course!! Richard’s mom asked me to take care of him. Richard had a terrific fear of flying, so we took the train all the way. The shows in Toronto were exciting. Richard knew how to work an audience. In
fact, no one could hold court like Richard Berry! He also performed in Ottawa and was interviewed live on Canadian National TV. He sang “Louie Louie” of course. On the way back home, we stopped in New York, to meet up with Chuck Rubin of Artists Rights. Chuck had found a loophole in the copyright law and was able to secure part of the copyright for “Louie Louie”. Half went to Max Firetag. Richard & Chuck split the other half. A number of Richards’ friends (singers) criticized the move, saying “why would you give that guy half your money?” My rejoinder was “Richard, do you want a 100% of nothing, or 50% of something?” He smiled at me and got the message. That 50% got him a 6-figure income until he passed
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eration between schools, city hall, and the local Chamber of Commerce benefits everyone with over a thousand local kids getting new back packs full of school supplies to help get them started on a new school year of hope and achievement. …Last issue’s “Question for the Day” was how many backpacks were given away in the weeks prior to school starting at events Supervisor Solis’s office were involved with? I called Rosa Maria Santana, Deputy Communication Director for Supervisor Solis, and she got right back with the answer. The Supervisor’s office helped give away 4,350 backpacks prior to the start of the new schoolyear. Great job everyone! …You often hear me talk about the “perks of the elite media” that I receive. Well the other day I was talking to two lovely young ladies who were interested in some story I was telling when they found out I write for the Mid Valley News and that I even had my own Cracker Barrel continued on page 8
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ing. We definitely feel special.” Her son, Jonathan Aldrete, also shared the same excitement. “It was like going to Disneyland!” Through a partnership with the Professional Institute of Beauty, children also received free haircuts. For those who were not able to stay, the Professional Institute of Beauty gave away 1,000 haircut vouchers redeemable through the end of September. Gloria Carrillo, whose four children received haircuts, said the service was a helpful hand. “Aside from sharing time as a family, this is a lot of economical help. We all have the necessity of getting a good haircut.” The Back-to-School Resource Fair also reserved supplies for children in the foster care system. Local dignitaries and the El Monte City Council wrote inspirational notes that were then placed in backpacks.
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El Monte City Council and local dignitaries pose for a photo before writing inspirational notes for children in the foster system. All Courtesy Photo
The City of El Monte, El Monte/ South El Monte Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown El Monte
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The Mid Valley News is published Bi - weekly on Thursday by Mid Valley Media Center, LLC Business and Editorial Offices are located at: 11401 E. Valley Blvd.
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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
Joining the Mountain View Team this year are three new principals, David Herrera at Kranz Intermediate, Larry Elwell at Voorhis Elementary and Melissa Brown at Miramonte Elementary who each bring a wealth of experience and leadership to their schools. Additionally, 10 new teachers and certificated staff members were welcomed this school year. Along with core academics, programs like Project Lead the Way, AVID, SEAL, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), STEM, Visual and Performing Arts, and the elementary counseling program will continue to equip MVSD
Business Association hosted the resource fair in partnership with the Mountain View, El Monte City and El
Monte Union High School Districts. This is the seventh year the City hosts the Back-to-School Resource Fair.
students with the knowledge and skills to become tomorrow’s leaders and positive contributors to their community. The district-wide college-bound culture will continue through a variety of programs all focused on inspiring future collegiate scholars. MVSD’s strong focus on health and wellness and Family Engagement opportunities will remain high priorities as programs, workshops and activities are provided for parents and families throughout the school year. MVSD is coming off a very busy summer which included providing summer learning programs for 2,900 students and professional development and training for staff members. The second Measure SS Bond proj-
ect, an extensive underground utilities modernization took place at Baker School, and roofing projects were completed at Miramonte and Voorhis Schools. “We have high expectations for our students and know they will achieve great things this school year. Our students are important, loved, respected and the reason we are here, and we look forward to a wonderful school year,” said Maldonado French. If you would like to be part of the Mountain View Family, please call 626-652-4000 or visit the District website at www.mtviewschools.com for registration and enrollment information including preschool programs, Transitional Kindergarten and grades Kindergarten through 8th.
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away in 1997 Over the years we would do gigs at The Palamino Greek Theater; Chicago Rib Broker in Santa Barbara; London; Louie Louie Extravaganza in Northern , Calif. and interviews with TV & Radio: Channel 2 w host; Channel 9 w Connie Hawkins; KPFK w Johnny Otis, and later w Bill Gardner on KPCC and KPFK Special thanks to the Doo Wop Society: Richard Berry & the Flairs; Arthur Lee Maye & Crowns. Arthur Lee Maye; Young Jesse; Rip Spencer; Dave Antrell; Don Julian; Gloria Jones & Fanita James (Dreamers & Blossoms); Jeanette Baker.
ested and I dare say impressed! So for all of you nerdly (yes nerdly is a word, look it up) journalism students out there, keep at it – you too can win friends and influence people.
column…well then they became inter-
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deemed appropriate and would purchase the entire thing. At the time, Mama worked for banks in their check clearing departments. She worked the swing shift and would leave home at three in the afternoon and come home at 1 a.m. From one in the morning until the sun came out, she would sew identical dresses for us girls to wear to school. Some school years, if there wasn’t a huge growth spurt, Mama would let the hems down on dresses or pass
Sudoku Solution for 8.22.18
them on to a younger child. Now that my daughter is grown, I miss going out to buy the supplies she needed to start a new school year. I miss the excitement selecting outfits and talking about who would be in class that year and what was said about the teacher she would have. I miss most is the hum of a sewing machine; the endless standing while Mama pinned a hem. Most of all, I miss the joy of a family coming together for a Labor Day picnic before the long slow days of school started.
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