Sports
Chalk Talk
Basketball page 6
Community Events, page 2 - 3
The Community Paper of Record
Vol. 56, No. 02
Serving the San Gabriel Valley Since 1966
January 23, 2019
City and County Expanding Health Care Center in El Monte by Staff Writer El Monte
Many uninsured San Gabriel Valley patients often must travel to LAC+USC Medical Center in Boyle Heights for emergency and urgent care services, which is not conducive to quality and timely care. In response, today the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved an investment of $6.6 million to renovate the El Monte Comprehensive Health Center Primary Care Clinic, which includes adding an Urgent Care Center to the facility, to ensure local residents gain quick access to emergency medical care. “Many San Gabriel Valley residents, particularly Latino and Asian American immigrant communities, children, and senior citizens, lack access to quality health care,” said LA County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, whose First District includes the City of El Monte. “I am committed to eliminating this gap that hurts our most vulnerable and underserved communities, and to expanding access to health care services for all residents in the San Gabriel Valley.” In a letter, which was approved
by the Board of Supervisors, the LA County Department of Public Works requested that the Board approve the two plans and authorize the advertising of the proposals so that the Department could actualize a contract for the projects. The projects have a combined total budget of $6.6 million. The $1.3 million Primary Care Clinic construction project will entail remodeling 3,400 square feet to accommodate a reception and waiting room, a treatment room, eight exam rooms, staff and managerial offices, and restrooms. The new spaces will allow medical professionals to treat patients with health maintenance and chronic disease management services. The construction of a new $1.7 million Urgent Care Center will include refurbishing 5,400 square feet to house a reception and waiting room, a nurse’s station, two triage rooms, four observation rooms, a treatment room, education and counseling offices, five exam rooms, restrooms, and staff and managerial offices. The Urgent Care Center will be located on the first floor of
the El Monte Comprehensive Health Center. Both the Primary Care Clinic and the Urgent Care Center will be located at 10953 Ramona Blvd. in the City of El Monte. The projects will also include the removal and installation of new partitions, ceiling tiles, flooring and casework; fire alarm system upgrades, and compliance with accessibility requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The
construction is expected to begin in June 2019 and is estimated to be completed in September 2020. “Access to healthcare is a fundamental right for everyone,” said Mayor Andre Quintero. “We thank Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and the L.A. County Board of Supervisors for their leadership in securing accessible quality healthcare for our community and neighboring cities.”
their feelings and build confidence through art, and are very excited to have their work honored. Parszik, an exceptional art teacher, and her students have enjoyed a long history of success over the years in a variety
of art competitions. Parszik is extremely proud of Bianca Villeda, a former Madrid Middle School student who promoted from 8th grade this past June, who was accepted into the prestigious
Ryman Program, a two year program sponsored the Disney Foundation for young artists. “Students accepted into this elite
Healthcare continued on page 16
Madrid Middle School Student Artists Honored for their Artwork
by Michelle Earle, Mt View School District, Contributing Writer El Monte
Madrid Middle School in the Mountain View School District is celebrating the achievements of its student artists. The artwork of 13 students was published in the Fall 2018 Celebrating Art book, a publication that brings together the best student artists in North America, and 34 students were awarded ribbons in the Los Angeles County Fair America’s Kids Art Expo including 14 First Place ribbons and 20 Second Place ribbons. The award-winning artists are current and former students in Madrid teacher, Sue Parszik’s art class. The winning artwork that caught the judges’ eyes included still life drawings and self-portraits created with pencil and charcoal, pen and ink drawings, watercolor art, and clay projects. The students appreciate the opportunity to take art class and express their creativity, sharpen their critical thinking skills, communicate
Artwork continued on page 16
Mid Valley News
Page 2
January 23, 2019
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk
2018 Mid Valley League Champs
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Popular New Meal Program Feeds Success in Students by Staff Writer El Monte
LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL UPDATE OR: DEAR NEIGHB hools keep our neighborhoods
good local sc erty values – We all know that everyone’s prop live, protecting to s . ce ols pla ho le sc ab r desir s in ou ners without kid including homeow repaired have already been ols local high schools ho r sc ou r of ou me of so all e Whil sure that am working to en luding safe inc – s er ch and upgraded, I tea d -date our students an d have the up-to meet the needs of good condition an in e ar at . th on s ati om uc classro a quality ed ssary to provide technology nece far include: has identified so the community es iti ior pr al ion Educat ty teachers d attracting quali ➤ Retaining an security d an y fet sa ol ho ➤ Upgrading sc students drinking water for tors tions systems ➤ Ensuring safe ica un rms, smoke detec ergency comm doors, smoke ala y fet sa ing ➤ Upgrading em lud inc e safety systems mputer labs ➤ Upgrading fir gineering and co en , ce ien sc t ing ➤ Expand ity informed abou keep the commun s. to es e cc inu su nt nt co de ll We wi e and stu ational excellenc ase read on. ple s, ed ne maintaining educ ed inu tion about cont For more informa Sincerely,
a Dr. Edward Zunig nt de ten rin Supe
Para ver en Español, favor de visitar nuestro sitio web: www.emuhsd.org/localhighschoolupdate 要用普通话查看，请访问我们的网站: www.emuhsd.org/localhighschoolupdate Để xem bằng tiếng Việt, vui lòng truy cập webiste của chúng tôi: www.emuhsd.org/localhighschoolupdate
At the beginning of this school year, El Monte Union moved to a new meal program that will provide all students, regardless of income, with free breakfast and lunch. The change comes in response to Senate Bill 138, signed into law in January 2018 requiring school districts in high-poverty areas to provide free meal service to all students. Two El Monte Union feeder school districts – Mountain View and El Monte City School District– also participate in the program. “This is a great opportunity for our families in the El Monte community – it provides all students two free meals a day, reduces financial strain for families and supports optimal nutrition for learning and achievement in our schools,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “It also reduces the stigma associated with free meals since all of our students can take advantage and get a jumpstart to their day.” To successfully implement the program, called Provision 2, over the long term, the District will continue to collect applications for free and reduced-price meals and track meals served by fee category (free,
reduced-price and paid) for the first year. Schools will still be able to provide free meals to all students. After the first year, the District – which participates in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs – will not have to collect, process or verify school meal applications for at least three years. Providing students with access to a variety of affordable foods that meet the needs of the students, all meals, foods, and beverages meets the state and federal requirements which are based on the USDA Dietary Guidelines. The District will fund meals for students who are not qualified to receive free- or reduced-price meals through the general fund. Applications for free and reducedprice meals are available at each school, the District office and on the District Nutrition Services website at https://bit.ly/2NyayY3. For more information, call (626) 444-9005, ext. 9870, or email Suzy. Sayre@emuhsd.org.
January 23, 2019
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Mid Valley News
EL MONTE UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT
Chalk Talk
An Ounce of Prevention by Staff Writer
Recently the El Monte Union High School District has focused on providing health resources to students and families. Students, family members, and members of the community can now connect with local community resources, emergency hotlines, and family service organizations through the El Monte Union High School District’s Health Resources Book. Originally a handbook for Assistant Principals for Student Services, Counselors, and other key coordinators of well-being throughout the District, this one-stop booklet is now available to everyone through the El Monte Union High School District website. This one-stop booklet provided telephone numbers and website
addresses, along with up-to-date information about the resources available through the city of El Monte and beyond. Resources include By dialing 211, the County of Los Angeles can link people in need of services with agencies in their local communities. The County of Los Angeles helps to eliminate the frustration and time-consuming searches for information and help by offering three simple digits that can be dialed from any phone or accessed on any browser (www.211la.org). This is just one example of the sixty organizations listed in the booklet providing necessary, important, and possible life-saving information. Who to call for victims of sexual assault or domestic violence, if you are suffering the threat of homelessness, or battling addiction. To make sure the information is accurate and successful in reaching the students of the El Monte Union High School District, The El Monte Union High School District is cur-
rently administering the California Healthy Kids Survey to students, parents, and staff. The CalSCHLS system was created by the California Department of Education (CDE) in 1997 to efficiently and cost-effectively provide school districts and their partner communities with information that
is used to improve student academic performance and health of all youth. For more information or to obtain a copy of health resources booklet, visit the El Monte Union High School District website at www. emuhsd.org and look for “Health Resources”.
It’s About Time To Apply EMUHSD Working to for College – and Here’s Bring Affordable Internet How To Pay For It to Everyone by Staff Writer El Monte
Now that the holidays are over, a new year has begun, and we turn our eyes from Sugar Plum Fairies and Sleigh Bells to the journey all High School Seniors must consider – college. Many have debated the problems of rising costs of tuition and how to pay for them. From freezes on tuition hikes to free college for everyone, the solutions are as complex as the problem. Usually the first place a student looks for financial aid are student loans. However, if a student is willing to exercise patience and perseverance, one should not overlook the millions of dollars in scholarships available through private, public, and non-profit organizations. These institutions want funds to go to qualified students who meet certain requirements. Let me write that again. These institutions want to give you their money provided applicants meet certain requirements. Different organizations have different qualifications, but one thing is guaranteed – the information is free of charge. Never pay for scholar-
ship research and never fall for the “Guaranteed or money back”. If you must pay money to get money, it’s probably a scam. Beginning with the next edition of Chalk Talk, The Mid Valley News will provide information on available scholarships and where students can find scholarship information including where to download applications and deadlines. These are probably scholarships you didn’t know exist or didn’t know you qualified for…which is why we are here. To education, entertain, and engage. As a sneak peek into the wonderful world of scholarship opportunities, the first scholarship we want to tell you about is from Phi Delta Kappa International for prospective educators. The PDK Educational Foundation awards more than 30 scholarships each year to prospective educators, with awards ranging from $500 to $2000. Applications opened January 3, 2018 and the application deadline is April 3, 2019. For more information on this scholarship opportunity, please visit www.pdkintl.org and look under “Programs and Resources”.
by Staff Writer El Monte
According to the US Department of Commerce, 28 percent of Americans do not use the Internet at all because they don’t think it’s relevant, are unfamiliar with the technology, or simply can’t afford access. Of those who do not use the internet at all, almost 75% are minority households. According to Pew research study, teachers of the lowest income students acknowledge that students’ lack of access to digital technologies is a “major challenge” to incorporating more digital tools into their teaching. When you consider that up to 94% of job recruiters plan to use social media to find potential employees, and 77% of jobs in the next decade are expected to require internet and technology skills, the impact of technology in communications is real. To close the digital divide within our community, the El Monte Union High School District supports the EveryoneOn program to help families and households throughout the entire community access important technological resources needed to compete and achieve success in the 21st century. EveryoneOn is a national nonprofit working to eliminate the digital divide by making high-speed, low-cost Internet service and computers, and free digital literacy courses accessible to all unconnected Americans. Through partnerships with local Internet service providers, EveryoneOn is able to offer free or $9.95
home Internet service in 48 states and the District of Columbia. They work with device refurbishers, so individuals and their families can purchase discounted devices, including $150 tablets and $199 laptops. Connect2Compete Connect2Compete (C2C) is EveryoneOn’s program that provides affordable Internet and devices to low-income populations, including students and families that qualify for the National School Lunch Program. Eligible customers receive fast, affordable Internet for as low as $9.95 per month (plus tax). The requirements to apply for the program are subject to change, but a typical household may qualify for EveryoneOn’s Connect2Compete program if they have at least one child eligible or enrolled in the National School Lunch Program, have not subscribed to Internet service within the last 90 days, and have no outstanding bills or unreturned equipment. At this time, only AT&T provides opportunities for the discounted internet access. For more information on the program please visit www.att. com/access.
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Mid Valley News
January 23, 2019
California Receives A Big, Bold New Year Nearly $11 Million For for Citrus College Childhood Education by Dr. Edward C. Ortell, Citrus College Governing Board Member San Gabriel Valley
by Staff Writer El Monte
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced today that the California Department of Education (CDE) was awarded a federal Preschool Development Birth Through Five Initial Grant Award for $10,620,000 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families. It was one of 45 states/territories that received the grant award. These grants help states analyze and enhance their early learning and care systems to maximize the availability of high-quality early learning and care options for low-income and disadvantaged families. It will also help California improve the quality of early childhood care by streamlining administrative and funding systems. “This grant helps streamline access to early education and after school programs through more effective and efficient operations,” said Thurmond. “That in turn will help us take a step towards meeting the crucial goal of expanding these programs and reducing the achievement gap.” California has 3 million children younger than five years old, half of
whom come from low-income families. Through this federal grant, California will first conduct a statewide birth-through-five needs assessment and then develop a strategic plan that will provide guidance to policymakers to increase access to services for children and families with high needs. The grant will also dramatically expand families’ access to the information they need to find high-quality early learning and care for their children as well as increase their child development knowledge. In order to provide input and guidance to California’s early learning and care team and to support the implementation of the grant, the CDE will launch a stewardship team consisting of other state agencies serving young children and their families. The CDE will also work in partnership with the Governor’s State Advisory Council on Early Learning and Care on the needs assessment and strategic plan. Resources for families, child development contractors, and the child care community are available on the Early Learning and Care Division webpage.
The New Year is here, and from a big picture perspective, it is certain to be a transformational one for the San Gabriel Valley and all of Southern California. The foundation for 2019 was established in previous years, with work on big regional transportation projects and planning for comprehensive workforce development initiatives, all of which requires an educated workforce. Early last year, following a groundbreaking ceremony at Citrus College, work on the next phase of the Foothill Gold Line began in earnest. Also known as “the Brain Train,” this 12.3-mile extension of the line will add light rail stations from Glendora to Montclair. It will connect many regional destinations, including two dozen colleges and universities, all within a short walk, bike or bus ride from future stations. In keeping with Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti’s vision to take the Gold Line to the Ontario Airport in time for the 2028 Olympics, this massive transportation initiative is on track to bring jobs, commerce and economic prosperity to our region in the near term and the future. Recognizing the region’s increas-
ing demand for a skilled workforce, last spring Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio convened a Workforce Development Roundtable at Citrus College. The Assemblywoman emphasized the importance of business leaders and educators discussing regional workforce needs and collaborating on creative solutions. Participants from the education community included local community colleges and several universities and K-12 unified school districts. Representatives from SoCalGas, Delafield Corporation, Athens Services, the City of Hope and Kaiser Permanente and the Duarte, Glendora and Monrovia Chambers of Commerce provided the perspective of local businesses. The 2018 meeting was the genesis for planning and collaboration that will take regional workforce development to the next level in 2019. Our current and future economic prosperity is dependent on workers with the education and training necessary to do the job. Community colleges play a critical role this type of training, providing degrees and certificates that give students the specific skills required for employment in new and evolving fields. Many local community colleges have state-of-the-art career techniCitrus College continued on page 16
Mountain View School District’s Journalism Students Focus on Building Peace by Karen Herrera, Deputy City Manager City of Duarte
Mountain View School District’s After School Journalism Program continues to provide students who are English Language Learners with effective intervention emphasizing the development of academic language skills. The successful program has been offered in the District for seven years and focuses on the highly engaging style of journalistic writing as it targets listening, speaking, reading and writing develop-
ment in the context of a real-world application. The theme for this session of the program was Ambassadors of Peace. The 65 student journalists spent 10 weeks immersed in learning about the field of journalism and what it takes to be a journalist. Reporting for the Cogswell Cubs Chronicle, the Payne Highlights, the Monte Vista Eagle News, the Twin Lakes Comet Chronicle, the Parkview Eagle News and the Voorhis Mustang News, the student journalists learned the proper interviewing techniques, how to
write a catchy lead and hook, and how to construct an article. “In a time when we have so much apathy, and crime taking place in our world, our student journalists decided that promoting a little kindness and respect would go a long way in our schools and community,” said Angelica Sifuentes Donoso, MVSD’s Director of Family Engagement and Extended Learning. “The theme centered around peace enabled the students to take a deep look into the issue of building peace through their journalistic responsi-
Payne Highlights journalists interviewed Rudy Sanchez, a Vietnam Veteran, retired school employee and volunteer officer for the El Monte Police Department who promotes peace through his service.
bility, as well as conduct research and interviews to discover why being “Ambassadors of Peace” is so important.” During the 10 weeks the knowledge gained went beyond reading, speaking, listening and writing. The students became true journalists when they did their field work at places such as the Museum of Tolerance, the Emergency Resource Association (ERA) and the American Military Museum, as well as interview invited guests at their school. They had a great time on their field trips and were grateful to learn ways to build peace at their schools and in their community. According to Sifuentes-Donoso the Journalism program creates improvement in writing skills and aligns with Common Core standards. “Our data shows that students who have participated in the program have improved in their writing skills,” said Sifuentes-Donoso. “Part of the Common Core is cooperative learning and working in teams and that’s what the Journalism program provides. The writing, listening, vocabulary and vernacular embedded in the program all support Common Core,” she added. After completing their research for their articles, the students began the writing process and produced wonderful articles on Ambassadors of Peace which were published in the District newspaper, The Mountain View Voices. The 11 journalists for the Cogswell Journalism continued on page 15
January 23, 2019
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Mid Valley News
Assemblywoman Blanca E. Rubio Elected Chair of the San Gabriel Valley Legislative Caucus by Karen Krynen, Contributing Writer Rosemead
Assemblywoman Blanca E. Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) was elected Chair of the San Gabriel Valley Legislative
Caucus on a unanimous vote. She will succeed out going Chair, Senator Ed Hernández (D- West Covina) who termed out of the Legislature last year. Assemblyman Freddie
Rodriguez (D- Pomona) will serve as the Caucus’s Vice Chair. “It is a distinct honor to be elected Chair of the San Gabriel Valley Legislative Caucus,” said Assembly-
woman Rubio. “The San Gabriel Valley faces unique challenges in the upcoming years in areas such as water, transportation, housing, the environment and economic development. My colleagues and I will work together to ensure the interests of our communities are well represented in Sacramento.” Assemblywoman Rubio represents the 48th Assembly District, which is comprised of the cities of Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bradbury, City of Industry, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, Glendora, Irwindale, Monrovia, West Covina, and the San Gabriel Valley unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, including Bassett, Charter Oak, Citrus, East Arcadia, Ramona, Valinda and West La Puente.
Courtesy photo
Metro News Foothill Gold Line Board Welcomes New Leadership from Pomona and La Verne by Metro Media Relations San Gabriel Valley / LA County
At their January meeting yesterday, the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority (Construction Authority) board of directors welcomed two new members: Pomona
Mayor Tim Sandoval and La Verne Council Member Robin Carder. These new appointments come following last month’s retirements of longtime board members Doug Tessitor and Sam Pedroza, after having served on the board for nearly a
decade. Following the swearing in of the two new members, the board voted unanimously to have them lead the nine-member board: Mayor Sandoval as Chair and Council Member Carder as Vice Chair. “It is an honor to have been chosen
Courtesy photo by L.A. Metro
by my colleagues to lead the board as we work to make the Foothill Gold Line dream come true for the tens of thousands of future riders that live and work in the eastern San Gabriel Valley and western Inland Empire,” stated newly-elected Chairman Sandoval. “Hundreds of thousands of people travel through this corridor every day, and they are eager to have the reliable, sustainable transportation option provided by the Gold Line.” The new leadership and makeup of the board comes when the Construction Authority is already underway on construction of the 12.3-mile Glendora to Montclair light rail extension; but at a time where the agency is responding to unexpectedly high bids from the teams competing to win the Alignment designbuild contract. The agency has identified a need to secure another $570 million to complete the full project to Montclair and is currently undergoing environmental review to evaluate impacts associated with the La Verne and/or Pomona station becoming a Metro News continued on page 15
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Mid Mid Valley Valley News News
January 23, 2019
Mid Valley News Sports
Registration Now Open for South El Monte’s 2019 Tee Ball Season by Nancy Rodriquez, South El Monte Recreation Specialist South El Monte / San Gabriel
The City of South El Monte Community Services is now accepting registration for the 2019 Tee Ball Season. The co-ed program is open to kids ages 4 to 6. The 12-week instructional program provides a foundation and introduction to baseball and softball that is grounded in fun, fitness, and fundamentals in a welcoming atmosphere. During the course of the season, coaches and parents will hold a series of lessons that include skills, drills and plenty of physical activity. The cost for each player is $40 for South El Monte residents; a sibling discount will be available for residents. The fee for non-residents is $67 per player. The registration fee includes a team uniform. The last day to register is Friday, February 8th at the South El Monte Community Center, 1530 Central Ave. from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. Proof
Courtesy Photo
of participant’s age and residency is required at registration. For additional information, please call 626.579.2043. The City of South El Monte, “The City of Achievement” is a vibrant
and thriving community, locate in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, just minutes from downtown of Los Angeles. Our community members are the heart of South El Monte and for that reason, the City of South El
Monte is always striving enhance the quality of life and provide exceptional service. For more information on the City of South El Monte visit www.cityofsouthelmonte.org.
For the pulse of the San Gabriel Valley, local news, special events, and school events check us out.
The South El Monte High School Eagles Baseball Program Annual Alumni Baseball Game
www.midvalleynews.com
Saturday January 26, 2019 @ 11AM. For more information or questions contact Coach Daniel Quintana. Please text or email your RSVP with your name, email, and number if you plan to attend.
The South El Monte High School Eagles Baseball Program Annual Alumni Baseball Game Contact:
Saturday January 26, 2019 @ 11AM. baseball.coachq@gmail.com (626) 456-2536 For more information or questions contact Coach Daniel Quintana. Please text or email your RSVP with your name, email, and number if you plan to attend.
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Hometown Hero’s Sponsored by the U.S. Army
Hometown Hero’s is a page dedicated to recognizing the local everyday hero. A hero can be anyone who goes out of their way to help others. A person who makes a difference in others life or even someone who inspires others by their deeds.
We want your help in identifying the local hero’s by letting us know of someone you feel is deserving. We will then review all the request and select a person. Please send your request to Michael.A.Frischknecht.mil@mail.mil or call (323)309-0877.
Overcoming Any Obstacles by Sergeant First Class Brandon Byrd San Gabriel Valley/ National
U.S Army Recruiting Battalion Los Angeles Commander LTC Patrick M. Flood
U.S Army Recruiting Battalion Los Angeles Command Sergeant Major CSM Elvin Nuells
Monique Roberts, a 23-year-old single parent, has proven in many ways what a hero exemplifies in our community. She is proud to serve her community as an EMT and an Internment Resettlement Specialist in the U.S. Army Reserve with the 358th MP Co. Detachment. Her selflessness, humility, and patience has been the driving force to why she always felt a calling to service. “I always saw the relief on people’s faces when the medics and firefighters arrived on scene to aid and help families in whatever urgent situation they were encountered with. I wanted to be there first helping hand and reassure people of my assistance in need right at the moment” stated Monique Roberts. In her quiet moments, Roberts wanted to do more and felt that being an EMT was not enough, so she enlisted in the Army Reserve expecting to do more for her country. Monique loved nothing more than helping her country any way that she could because she felt it was her duty to do for others what they weren’t capable to do for themselves. “I have always felt gratitude to the Soldiers that serve our country. They offer a sense of relief for people in times of crisis. I also enlisted for my son to show him life is limitless, and you can do whatever it is you set your mind to. Being a single mother doesn’t limit you, it makes you stronger, and with the help of my family and friends and the smile on my sons face, it keeps me determined to work hard every single day towards a good comfortable life for him and I”. stated Monique To learn more about the opportunities of enlisting in the U.S Army Reserves or Active Duty, please contact SFC Byrd at (626) 963-1945 or email at brandon.m.byrd8.mil@ mail.mil. “Warriors Wanted”
San Gabriel Valley Commander CPT Gerardo Gomez
San Gabriel Valley First Sergeant 1SG Michael Frischknecht
Loyalty Duty Respect Selfless Service Honor Integrity Personal Courage
U.S. Army Sgt. Anthony Orduno, a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter crew chief with Bravo Company, 1st Assault Helicopter Battalion, 140th Aviation Regiment, California Army National Guard, watches as the helicopter’s bucket lowers toward the Feather River, which reflects the orange glow of smoky skies overhead, Nov. 15, 2018, while helping contain the Camp Fire in Butte County, California. The California National Guard provided four helicopters to help contain the fire, including two of it’s new M-model UH-60 Black Hawks. (Photo Credit: Senior Airman Crystal Housman)
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January 23, 2019
Mid Valley News
Community Corner
Supervisor Solis House Passes Rep. Chu Bill To Promote Provides County Small Business Startup Resources to help Growth During Teacher’s Strike by Staff National
On Monday, January 14th, teachers throughout the Los Angeles Unified School District went on strike to advocate for smaller class sizes, schoolroom supplies, permanent nursing staff, and more in order to create better learning environments for schoolchildren. With nearly 700,000 students, LAUSD is one of the largest school districts in the world. To mitigate the impact of the strike, the Board of Supervisors approved a motion authored by Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis to identify, implement, and promote programs and activities for students and their families. “As a lifelong supporter of working women and men, and as a former Labor Secretary, I stand with my sisters and brothers who are out on the picket line, asking only for what is fair and best for their students,” said Supervisor Solis. “LA County will do what we can to support our teach-
ers, our students, and our parents by identifying learning opportunities for students during the duration of this strike. I urge LAUSD to move quickly to address teachers’ concerns, which would be the best outcome for our students and parents.” Today’s action directs County departments to identify, create, and publicize educational programs, activities, and resources for LAUSD students and their parents during the strike. For example, the County Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will expand their snack program at County parks and provide an open gym and programming at all six community regional parks from 9am to 4pm on strike days. Additionally, DPR will work with the Los Angeles County Public Library to expand snack programs to County libraries on strike days. The motion also waives admission, parking, and any associated fees for Teacher Strike continued on page 15
by Staff and Contributing Writers National
The House of Representatives recently voted to pass H.R. 116, the Investing in Main Street Act, introduced by Rep. Judy Chu (CA-27). This bill would amend the Small Businesses Investment Act of 1958 to increase the percentage of capital and surplus that a bank or federal savings association may invest in Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs) to match current banking regulations. “Before they became global leaders, companies like Apple, Tesla, and Intel required SBIC funding to get started.” Rep. Chu, a member of the Small Business Committee, said. The SBIC program is an investment program with a Small Business Administration (SBA) guarantee that increases access to capital for high-growth, start-up businesses. Currently, SBICs cannot take capital investments from banks that have more than 5% of the institution’s capital and surplus invested in SBICs, however banking regulation
permits investments up to 15% of the banks’ capital and surplus. “This bill will address one of the biggest problems small businesses face - access to capital – by letting banks or federal savings associations invest up to 15% of their holdings into SBICs. This means more money for entrepreneurs who want to hire new staff, buy new inventory, or grow their business. Accounting for two out of every three new jobs, our small businesses are too important to our economy to let them be hamstrung by a decades-old restriction. Today, we took an important step towards helping small businesses and I hope the Senate considers this bill soon.” Representative Chu’s statement concluded. The Investing in Small Business Act passed by a vote of 403-2 and 38 Representatives not voting. For more information, or to view a complete text of HR 116, readers are encouraged to visit https://www.congress. gov/bill/116th-congress/housebill/116/text or click on this article in the digital edition of your paper.
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Mid Valley News
Teen Volunteering: Get Involved
HOW TO ENCOURAGE TEENS TO VOLUNTEER Lead by example. This can mean volunteering yourself when you get the chance, or doing volunteer activities as a family, which has the added advantage of promoting bonding and mutual respect between the family members involved.
WHERE TEENS SHOULD VOLUNTEER According to a review published in It’s motivating for young people when 2014 by the Institute for Volunteering they select volunteer opportunities Research, teen volunteers that align with their passions, demonstrate higher levels of well interests and ambitions. There are a being, personal development and large number of potential places social con nectedness than their non where teens can volunteer, including: volunteer peers. • Seniors’ residences This evidence suggests that getting • Animal shelters your own teen involved in • Libraries volunteering will provide them not • Food banks only a chance to fill out their resumes, • Community centres but also the opportunity to become more wellrounded It’s worth pointing out that not all happier, individuals. volunteering opportunities require a longterm, ongoing commitment. WHY TEENS SHOULD VOLUNTEER Charity fundraisers uoften require Volunteering promotes leadership volunteers for only one or two days. and communication skills, which looks good on college applications and Volunteer experience invariably resumes. Research also indicates strengthens a young person’s that teens who do volunteer work resume; however, the real value of have higher selfesteem and volunteering is emphatically the resilience than those that don’t. positive impact it has on others as well as on the volunteer.
Three Steps to Volunteer Abroad
Volunteering abroad can be an incredibly re warding experience. It gives you the chance to make a positive difference while discovering a new corner of the globe. However, there’s a fair bit of planning involved. Here are three things you’ll need to do beforehand. 1. PLAN YOUR BUDGET Volunteering abroad can be expensive. You need to make sure you can afford the airfare, the cost of visas and vaccinations, and the cost of the placement itself, which typically comprises accommodation, food, training, local transport, insurance and background checks.
big asset on your university application or resume. And if the placement lines up with your skills and interests, it’s all the more useful. For instance, if you’re interested in teaching, think about working for a literacy program. Or if you plan to work in the veterinary field, look for a placement in which you rehabilitate animals back into the wild.
Once you’ve locked down your budget, found a great organization to volunteer with and uncovered a position that aligns with your interests and ambitions, all that’s left is to pack your bags and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
2. FIND A GOOD ORGANIZATION There are many international volunteering organizations but not all of them are reputable. Make sure you do a lot of research before making any decisions. Check online reviews and, if possible, speak with people who’ve done the placement themselves. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, communicate directly with organizations, preferably by phone or in person, asking their representatives pertinent questions you’ve prepared in advance. 3. LOOK FOR A PLACEMENT Volunteering can be a great way to gain practical experience. It’s also a
Seniors Give Back to Community By Volunteering Studies have shown that volunteering has a positive effect on seniors’ well being and can even help stave off neurological problems associated with old age, including depression and dementia. If you’re a retiree looking to volunteer your time and skills, here are some ways you can give back to your community:
3. Mentor children. One of the best ways to contribute to your community is to volunteer to tutor or mentor kids — especially those who may not receive the academic and emotional support they need at home — through local schools and educational programs. Working with children can be a great way to bridge the generation gap while making a substantial difference in a young person’s 1. Offer pro bono services. One way to volunteer during your retirement is to life. use your professional skills to help peo ple in need for free. For instance, if you used to be an accountant, you can volunteer to help lowincome families or 4. Work with immigrant communities. Volunteer to help recent immigrants recent immigrants prepare their tax returns. If you used to be a lawyer, you can acclimatize to life in Canada. You can do things like help with job applications, offer free legal assistance to groups in need. child care and English language learning, or simply offer support and companionship as families adjust to their new country. 2. Support causes you’re passionate about. Take advantage of your retirement years to get involved with activist movements that inspire you. Whether it’s To learn more about volunteering opportunities for seniors, visit the City of El campaigning for political candidates or writing letters advocating legislative Monte Senior Citizens Center website at https://www.ci.elmonte.ca.us/189/ changes, you’re sure to find plenty of ways to further the causes you’re CommunitySeniorServices passionate about.
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January 23, 2019
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Webb’s Rule Another Year by Eugene R. Webb
Another year just flew by; My how the years do fly. Christmas came and went; Now we wait for the next event. God helps erase all hate and fear; With a clean slate we can start a new year. For this day I maybe able to change; But yesterday I cannot rearrange. I find it easier to live one day at a time; With God’s unconditional love on my mind.
As the days seem to so quickly roll; I don’t worry about what I can’t control. Tomorrow is certainly in God’s Hand; And I’m grateful for this wonderous land. I’ll gladly take each day and hold it dear;While praying I live to see another year.
“Cracker Barrel”
“Newlywed bliss ended on the Day of Infamy” by: Mike McClure, Staff Writer El Monte
Supervisor “Newlywed bliss ended on the Day of Infamy” a hometown heroine’s story. …so the other day I got a call from a writer in North Carolina, J. Michael Wenger, who is finishing a book that he is co –writing about the attack on Pearl Harbor. Mike Wenger is a military historian who has conducted research since the 1970’s in repositories the world over. He received the 2012 U.S. Naval Institute Author of the Year Award and is the coauthor of eleven books, and numerous journal articles, newspaper features and reviews. His main interest is Japanese carrier aviation and doctrine in World War II. His current book is about the attack on Hickam Field on that day we know of as the “Day of Infamy” at Pearl Harbor. Mr. Wenger had come across a newspaper clipping “Newlywed bliss ended on the Day of Infamy” from 1991 that he was trying to verify. It was about a young lady who had married her high school sweetheart, Henry Humphrey, in August of 1941. Hazel grew up in El Monte and she and Henry graduated from Alhambra High School in 1938. Young Henry was a staff sergeant in the fledgling Army Air Corps stationed at Hickam Field in Honolulu when they were married. Sgt. Humphrey was wounded by machine gun fire from one of the attacking Japanese aircraft on December 7th and died three days later. Hazel Humphrey returned to her home in El Monte and remarried to a
fellow named Martin Piercy in 1946. That could have been the end of the story but after Martin passed away, Hazel was having trouble collecting benefits from the Veterans Administration, so she went by the American Legion Post #261 here in El Monte and met with Frank Wolfskill who was the Post’s Adjutant at that time. When Frank heard her story, he helped her get her benefits and then he and the other members of Post #261 got the funds together to send Hazel and her daughter Linda to Pearl Harbor to attend the 50th Anniversary ceremonies, for which she had been named the official representative of the city of El Monte. This was the first time since she had left the islands in 1941 that she had been back and she said at the time that she probably would not have gone back if it hadn’t been for El Monte Post #261 of the American Legion, they had paid all of her expenses themselves so that she could go. Unfortunately, I was unable to verify the clipping for Mr. Wenger. I showed it to E. Clarke Moseley, previous publisher of the Mid Valley News, who told me that it wasn’t from the Mid Valley News (probably the old El Monte Tribune, by the print). Although we couldn’t find anyone who could remember the story, Clarke did remember Frank Wolfskill and told me that it sounded like something Frank would have done. We all know the guys over at Post #261 and it sounds like something Working Overtime continued on page 14
“Working Overtime”
“Rest in Peace Carol Channing”
Rest in Peace Carol Channing (1/31/1921-1/15/2019). I graduated from the Pasadena Playhouse with a B.S. in Theater Arts in 1958, I was 24 years old and a pretty good actor. I was getting T.V. parts and had performed in several plays at the Pasadena Playhouse and was staring to get parts around town. I was doing a play at the Player Ring in Hollywood with a friend of mine, Ann B. Davis (best known as Alice the maid in the Partridge Family), when she got the part of “Schultzy” in the Bob Cummings Show which launched her career. I had received great reviews for my portrayal of Andrew Crocker-Harris, a middle age Latin Professor in “The Browning Version” so I was a little discouraged when I was told that I would be cast in “Juvenile” parts into my forty’s. One night at a party I told my problem to Carol Channing and she suggested that I go apply for the job running the “freight” elevator at the Ambassador Hotel. She had heard that the fellow who had the job had just got a part in a play in New York (he was an actor) and that they would need someone. Although it was called the “freight” elevator, the only “freight” that it carried were celebrities who didn’t want to be seen going in and out of the hotel or that were performing there at the Coconut Grove. When I applied they ask me if I knew how to operate an elevator, I lied and said of course I did (remember, this was in the fifty’s when elevators would have an uniformed attendant who would sit there and run the elevator up and down and
by Dick James El Monte the skill was in reaching each floor evenly),my first guest was Liberace and his crew. He was polite as they got on but one of his dancers, a guy named “Gypsy” recognized me from a play and ask me what I was doing there which kind of scared Liberace, which in turn made me nervous so I had trouble lining the elevator up with the floor properly. Liberace finally screamed,” Stop this elevator and let me out of here!” I did, he had to scramble up about three feet to get out with his crew after him. I don’t know if Liberace snitched on me, he probably did because I was taken out of the “freight” elevator and given a job at the front desk and that is how I began my career in the hotel business, almost literally scaring the crap out of Liberace. Rest in Peace Carol Channing (1/31/1921-1/15/2019).
California Aids Federal Workers Impacted by Shutdown by Staff Reporter San Gabriel Valley/ National
The California Employment Development Department (EDD) today announced that it will provide Unemployment Insurance benefits to federal workers in the state who have been furloughed or are required to work without pay because of the ongoing federal government shutdown. To access these funds, these workers can call EDD’s dedicated toll-free number – (855) 327-7056 – to file an unemployment insurance benefit claim. “As the government shutdown enters its third week with no prospect of resolution or payment of salaries to affected federal employees, many workers find themselves in acute financial distress,” said Labor and Workforce Development Agency Secretary Julie A. Su. “Timely access to unemployment benefits may be of enormous help to furloughed federal workers and those who are working without pay.”
“We encourage all federal employees in California to call us at the number established specifically for them to apply for unemployment benefits that can provide financial relief during the shutdown,” said EDD Director Patrick Henning. Federal employees who do not have an existing unemployment benefit claim may apply using the Unemployment Insurance Application (Federal Employee) or by calling (855) 327-7056 between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m., Monday through Friday. In addition, employees who have an existing unemployment insurance claim can reopen that claim online using UI Online. Federal workers in California who, through no fault of their own, are out of work or who are required to work without any legal assurance of payment for their services absent enactment of federal legislation, can apply for benefits immediately and EDD
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Leadership Today. Water School District’s Program Attracts Right Tomorrow – Part III Kind of Attention by Metropolitan Water District and Staff El Monte/ National
by Michelle Earle, Contributing Writer, and Staff El Monte
Members of the California Department of Education’s (CDE) Migrant Education Division recently visited the Mountain View School District to see the District’s Family Biliteracy Program in action. MVSD’s program drew the interest of the CDE after the program’s creator, Dr. Fernando Rodriguez-Valls, an associate professor at Cal State University Fullerton, shared the District’s data analysis report with the state department of education. Making the trip from Sacramento to join Dr. Rodriguez-Valls to see the dynamic family learning at two Mountain View schools were Celina Torres and Lizette Rocha from the CDE’s English Learner Support Division. Proud to open their classrooms to showcase their program for the CDE’s visit were teachers Hannah Estes from Payne School and Rosanna Gonzalez from Twin Lakes
School. MVSD’s Family Biliteracy Program is a 12-week program where families attend once a week and are involved in family projects, engaging discussions and high levels of critical literacy in a bilingual setting. The goals of the program are to increase the levels of biliteracy for participating families, enhance first language instruction and promote the idea of family as a unified learning unit. During the weekly workshops, families enjoy learning together through hands-on, project-based lessons, and reading books over the 12 weeks. The three visitors were impressed with what they witnessed during their observation of Mountain View’s program and are returning to Sacramento with valuable program knowledge and resources to help support their efforts in the area of Biliteracy. “We are extremely proud that the team from the state department saw
Attention continued on page 15
This is part three in a four-part series of The Mid Valley News providing an edited version of “Leadership Today. Water Tomorrow”, an overview of Metropolitan’s proud legacy and forward-looking leadership which has positioned Southern California to meet tomorrow’s water challenges. With a history of responsible fiscal management, Metropolitan is investing to meet the demands of a growing Southern California and its $1.3 trillion economy. To keep Metropolitan’s vast water delivery system running smoothly and able to meet Southern California’s water demands, the district makes forward-thinking investments – in supplies, in storage, in conservation and in infrastructure. These strategically important programs together provide Metropolitan operational flexibility to store water when it is available to provide later in dry years. Water rates are set to recover the cost of providing water service in an open and transparent public process as part of the biennial budget. The most recent $1.7 billion budget (FY 2018-19, FY 2019-20) includes capital spending of more than $500 million, largely to rehabilitate existing facilities so they are well-maintained, reliable and seismically sound. Among some of Metropolitan’s largest strategic investments in recent years developing more than 5.5 million acre-feet of storage capacity – a 13 times increase in capacity since 1990. Through the completion of the 43-mile Inland Feeder water line in 2009, Metropolitan can refill Diamond Valley Lake rapidly to take advantage of wet years. Metropolitan’s board voted in 2018 to invest $10.8 billion in California WaterFix, a state and federal plan to fix the state’s outdated water delivery system and adapt to a changing climate. In partnership with the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County, a $17 million demonstration facility in Carson will test new treatment methods to purify wastewater. The
demonstration facility could pave the way for one of the nation’s largest water recycling facilities. The district helps fund research projects for future production of recycled water, seawater desalination, groundwater recovery and local stormwater. Since the 1990s, investments of more than $1 billion in conservation and recycled water have led to a more than 35 percent reduction in per capita potable water use. At the urging of Metropolitan and its member agencies, the California Legislature in 2009 mandated that urban retail water providers achieve a 20 percent per capita reduction in potable water use by the year 2020. To meet this goal, Metropolitan’s Board of Directors adopted a LongTerm Conservation Plan, developed in collaboration with its member agencies, retail agencies and other stakeholders. Over the years, Metropolitan has invested nearly $800 million in conservation programs, including rebates for toilets, turf removal, sprinklers and smart irrigation controllers and custom efficiency projects for the region’s businesses and industries. Southern Californians have made conservation a sustainable way of life by cutting average per capita potable water use from about 205 gallons per day in 1990 to 130 gallons per day now. While early conservation efforts greatly improved indoor water use, Metropolitan is now focusing on outdoor savings, and in a big way – launching the nation’s largest turf removal program in 2015 and removing more than 160 million square feet of lawn. Today, Metropolitan provides $43 million annually for conservation incentives, research, and education. Metropolitan’s commitment to conservation is bolstered through strong strategic partnerships with schools, universities, community groups, environmental organizations, and energy utilities. The district’s award-winning advertising and outreach campaign provides important water conserva-
Water Tomorrow continued on page 16
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January 23, 2019
New Technology is Transforming the Classroom by Statepoint National
As a parent, you may be wondering how technology in the classroom is being used to provide a constructive learning environment for your child. Here is a round-up of several new technologies and a look at how each helps educators teach, and students learn. Students have a better reason to stay engaged than ever before, as better, brighter more versatile projectors are introduced into more classrooms. For example, Casio’s LampFree Ultra Short Throw projectors are designed to generate large images over a very short projection distance so that they work well in classrooms of all sizes. Their optional wireless adapters give educators the ability to control the images from a smartphone or tablet through an app, so that lessons can be more spontaneous and creative. Whether you’re scoping out topics for Debate Club or bringing civics class to life with real world content, incorporating current events into lesson plans is becoming a cinch, thanks to tools like PressReader, a news aggregator that delivers full issues of thousands of publications to mobile devices, PCs and Macs that are connected to library hot zones.
Thanks to new software, classroom style learning can take place anywhere. One example is Classpad.net, a free, all-in-one webbased mathematics creation and discovery resource geared for K-12 and beyond. Enabling students to learn math at their own pace, new additions to the software include
dynamically linked representations, additional types of graphing interactions, improved authoring tools, and more. Even gym class is no exception to the technology upgrades that schools are seeing. Physical education teachers are fusing fun and fitness with such games as Dance
Dance Revolution, Just Dance and Wii Sports. Technology is getting feet moving and helping kids improve a sports skill. Technology has the power to engage and enthuse students. Luckily, many schools are recognizing this, and using new tools to their greatest potential.
Yellow School Buses Getting Electric Makeover
by Julia Roether, Edison Writer National
The yellow school bus is a familiar sight on America’s roads. As Fontana Unified School District - Opens in new window students returned from their holiday break, one familiar thing was missing from two of their buses: black exhaust. These buses are now all-electric and run on batteries - Opens in new window. They are not only free of emissions, but much quieter. On a typical school day, the buses travel about 100 miles taking students from home to school and back, as well as on field trips. Electric buses can drive up to 120 miles per charge. “I like the electric buses because they are better for us than the old buses,” said Beech Elementary student Victoria Garnica, 10. “I think they are important for us to have because they will help our environment and reduce air pollution.” Lilia Lopez, who has two children at Beech Elementary, added, “We live in such a beautiful city, but we have such bad air quality. So, it’s really good that the school district decided to get electric buses. It really helps the environment and there are a lot of kids who have asthma. It helps with their health and the air quality.” Fontana Unified is one of 11 school districts in Southern California Edison’s service territory that
was selected to receive funding for the electric buses from the South Coast Air Quality Management District - Opens in new window and the California Air Resources Board Opens in new window. The schools were provided with technical as-
sistance and guidance to support the rollout of the buses and the installation of charging stations by CALSTART - Opens in new window, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the clean transportation industry. “We believe it is important to pro-
vide our California schoolchildren with the cleanest buses possible, as soon as possible,” said Kevin Leong, program manager at CALSTART. Edison International, parent comSchool Buses continued on page 14
January 23, 2019
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into Summer Fun C R O S S W O R D
S u d o k u
Crossword Puzzle solution in issue 02.06.19
Solution for Sudoku in issue 02.06.19
ACROSS
WINTER FUN
1. Most populous continent 5. Mayan language 8. *Bumpy winter transport 12. Spiritual leader 13. Ledger entry 14. In a cold manner 15. Deodorant’s target 16. African chieftain 17. Asiatic wild dog 18. *Used in fun winter fights 20. Overnight lodgings 21. *Whoville’s ____ beast 22. Tropical constrictor 23. E.B. White’s Little 26. What siren does 29. Not a thing 30. Bear the expenses of 33. Between larva and adult 35. In a fitting way 37. Neighbor of Ger. 38. Up and about 39. Unadulterated 40. Excessive protection 42. Middle-earth creature 43. No balance due 45. *Winter Gathering spot 47. Resident uncle? 48. Diarist Anne 50. *Christmas pudding raisin 52. *Done with #8 Across 55. “Fahrenheit 9/11” filmmaker 56. *”The stump of a ____ he held tight in his teeth...” 57. Pout 59. Machu Picchu mountains 60. Snaky swimmers 61. Wild swine 62. Words from Wordsworth 63. Kind of humor 64. Southern stew staple
DOWN 1. Gone by 2. Wash froth 3. Fe 4. Light display 5. Cass Elliot and Michelle Phillips 6. Like a crooked kilt? 7. Lime-rich soil 8. *Hot chocolate add-on 9. One with biggest share 10. Olden-day elbow-related measurement, pl. 11. Do after tie 13. Formal discussion 14. “Bite the bullet,” e.g. 19. Verbose 22. BeyoncΘ, a.k.a. Queen ____ 23. Finger move 24. *Angler’s accessory 25. U in UV 26. Uber alternative 27. Your own teacher 28. Sudden stream 31. Box office failure 32. *Hot Buttered ____ 34. St. Louis monument 36. Time for relaxation, pl. 38. Change, as in U.S. Constitution 40. “____’s the word” 41. Grey’s fifty 44. Female sirs 46. Hands on hips 48. Marketing give-away 49. Email option 50. *Hockey turf 51. Ore deposit 52. Expel 53. E-reader brand 54. ____ gum on a list of ingredients 55. Zedong of China 58. Major time period
Every Person Has a Name – a 25 Hour Holocaust Vigil By Staff and Contributing Writers National
The Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys is partnering with the City of Pasadena and the community’s synagogues, to hold Every Person Has a Name. This 25-hour vigil will be held on the steps of Pasadena City Hall on Saturday, January 26 – Sunday, January 27, 2019. The program will begin with a commemoration ceremony at 7:00 pm and it will feature speeches from elected officials, including Pasadena Mayor Terry Tornek, Congresswoman Judy Chu, State Senator Anthony Portantino, LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Assemblymember Blanca Rubio, Assemblymember Chris Holden (invited), local clergy, as well as performances by the Jewish Federation’s Jewish Youth Orchestra and Kol HaEmek. Immediately following the ceremony, the program will transition into the reading of the names of people who perished during the Holocaust. Holocaust survivors, and children of Holocaust survivors from around the community will begin by reading the names of their family members who were killed during the Holocaust, and then will be followed by
volunteers from throughout the community reading names. “With every passing day, survivors are dying, and with them go their stories… my concern is that the memories will be dying as well,” explains Jason Moss, Jewish Federation’s Executive Director. “An event such as this allows the community to come together and to remember that each person that was killed was someone who lived and whose life was cut short. While our readers and those who listen may not know the people they are reading the names for; by saying their names aloud… they are remembered.” There are many ways for people to be involved. Volunteers have the opportunity to sign up to read names during 30-minute blocks. And for those who do not feel like reading, they can attend the commemoration ceremony or sit and listen as the names are read. “Just being present and showing support is part of the power of the event,” Moss explains. The event is open to the public. Volunteers can sign up by visiting the Jewish Federation’s website (www.jewishsgpv.org) or by calling 626.445.0810. For more information, please contact the Jewish Federation at 626.445.0810 or by sending an email to federation@jewishsgpv.org. The Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys’ mission is to build community by strengthening and enhancing Jewish life. The Jewish Federation does this by providing programs and services that support the needs of the Jewish community in our region, and acts as the Jewish voice on issues that affect the greater Jewish community.
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School Buses continued from page 12
pany of SCE, provided a $75,000 grant to CALSTART for the program. The grant was instrumental in the completion of the charging infrastructure at the schools’ transit yard sites. As part of the grant, CALSTART helped and supported the school districts by developing a tool kit that made it easier to roll out the buses. “At Edison International and SCE, we are committed to helping the communities we serve. Trans-
portation contributes to nearly 40 percent of California’s greenhouse gas emissions and almost 80 percent of its air pollution. So it’s important for us to support programs, such as CALSTART’s. It will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels,” said Lisa Woon, SCE’s principal manager of Corporate Philanthropy. “The schools and children that will benefit from this grant are located in areas with some of the worst air quality in the nation.” In addition to reducing air pollution, electric buses help schools save in maintenance costs. There’s
no need to change the oil or maintain the transmission or engine as is needed with internal combustion engines. And, fueling electric buses can cost substantially less than diesel. The South Coast Air Quality Management District, through its Carl Moyer Program, provided $8.8 million to purchase 33 battery electric, zero-emission buses and charging infrastructure for 16 public school districts and two charter schools in Southern California. The schools also received additional funding through the California Air Resources Board’s Hybrid and Zero Emission
Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project. These funds further offset the cost of buying the electric buses.
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Working Overtime continued from page 10
that they would do for a fellow
Vet’s widow so Mike - as far as I am concerned the article is correct and thanks for sharing it with me. Solis Goes to Washington
Author Talk: Luis I. Reyes Hollywood-Mexico Film History
Mid Valley Media Center
Your Ad Could Be Here!! Call Us at 626.888.1493 or Email Us at info@midvalleymedia.net
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Wednesday, January 23, 2019, 6 - 7 pm Join local author Luis I. Reyes as he shares his film history expertise and discusses his latest book, Made in Mexico: Hollywood South of the Border. He will discuss how Hollywood and Mexico influenced each other through their film artists and technicians. Refreshments will be provided. A List of ingredients will be available. Limited books available for purchase during the event. Program suitable for ages 18+ Photo by Satir Gonzalez
South El Monte Library 1430 North Central Avenue South El Monte, CA 91733 626.443.4158
January 23, 2019
Teacher Strike continued from page 8
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LAUSD students and their custodians from 7am to 3pm on strike days to Descanso Gardens, Arboretum, and South Coast Botanical Garden at Virginia Robinson Garden. The motion also asks the County’s Chief Executive Office to develop a resource mobilization plan so that LA County can respond appropriately in similar school strike situations in the future. Non-school options for LAUSD students include all LA County parks
Call Us at 626.888.1493 or Email Us at info@midvalleymedia.net
Attention continued from page 11
our program in action,” said Angelica Sifuentes Donoso, MVSD’s Director of Family Engagement. “The lessons Mrs. Estes and Mrs. Gonzalez taught were engaging, purposeful and bilingual. It is very exciting that our Family Biliteracy program will help shape the technical assistance that the California Department Education’s English Learner Support Division will provide to other schools’ programs.” MVSD’s Family Biliteracy Program builds on literacy in the students’ first language which has resulted in growth in second language acquisition for both students and parents. Throughout the program
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Cubs Chronicle really enjoyed their time in the program and came to a team decision that they are in fact ambassadors of peace. “After we spent time researching what it means to be an ambassador of peace we realized that we are actually ambassadors of peace because we are the future leaders of tomorrow,”
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teachers’ model, differentiate and tailor biliteracy skills –reading, writing, speaking, listening and comprehending – across languages. The projects created by students and their parents depict the commitment and effort to a multidimensional biliteracy. “I am incredibly proud of our team and appreciate our principals from Payne and Twin Lakes for opening the doors to our community with this program and Mrs. Estes and Mrs. Gonzalez, for their passion, commitment, and belief in our families. It’s very exciting that Mountain View has contributed to the successful implementation of a bilingual Family Biliteracy Program for our Migrant Families in the northern part of California,” added Sifuentes-Donoso.
said Leslie Jimenez, a journalist for the Cogswell Cubs Chronicle “It is up to us to be kind to others at home and at school and if we want a better future, we need to be the example for others,” she said. The young reporters learned that writing is a very powerful tool and that journalists can be great ambassadors of peace through their writing which can shape values, defuse tensions and promote positivity.
Shutdown continued from page 10
will assess their individual eligibility for benefits. Unemployment benefits amounts range from $40 to $450 per week depending on earnings and are available for up to 26 weeks. Employees who receive unemployment benefits and later receive a retroactive payment from their employer for the same time period will be required to repay the benefits received. EDD’s Frequently Asked Questions webpage on the federal government shutdown provides information about benefits and services available to federal workers, unemployment insurance benefits eligibility, applications and processing, and provides links to additional resources for more information about the unem-
Metro News continued from page 5
Journalists from Monte Vista learned about the military from Army Sergeant Sandra Garcia, a true Ambassador of Peace.
potential temporary terminus while the shortfall is sought. Newly-elected Vice Chairwoman Carder stated, “We are going through an exciting but challenging period for the project, and I look forward to working together with my fellow board members and the agency’s excellent staff to ensure that the construction ahead is successful and that we do everything in our power to complete the project to Montclair as soon as possible.” The Foothill Gold Line board is made up of elected and appointed representatives from throughout the project corridor. In addition to the two new members, Duarte Mayor and Metro Board Member John Fasana, Ontario Mayor Paul Leon, Ontario Council Member Alan Wapner (non-voting), Pasadena Council Member Gene Masuda (non-voting), Los Angeles representative Melchor Ilomin and South Pasadena repre-
will be open with an expanded snack program and will provide a gym and programming at all six community regional parks. Admission, parking, and associated fees will be waived for LAUSD students and their custodians from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on strike days to Descanso Gardens, Arboretum, and South Coast Botanical Garden at Virginia Robinson Garden. The Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, the La Brea Tar Pits Museum, and the William S. Hart Museum will offer free admission and activities between 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. on strike days. The Petersen Automotive Museum will offer free admission to LAUSD students through February 2nd, regardless of whether the strike takes place. The L.A. Zoo will offer students free admission on strike days. In addition, the Zoo will offer a “Community Safari Day” program for children between K-5. Free fares for LAUSD students from 5 a.m. and 7 p.m. on strike days on all LA Metro buses, lightrail, and subway lines. ployment insurance program. EDD’s jobs estimates for November 2018, indicate that there are approximately 245,000 federal workers in California, including full-time, part-time and seasonal workers. According to the most recent official data, a total of 779 federal workers in the state filed for unemployment benefits in the week ending December 29, the first week of the shutdown.
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sentative Dan Evans (non-voting) also sit on the board. The Governor’s appointee is currently vacant. The Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority is an independent transportation planning and construction agency created in 1998 by the California State Legislature to plan, design and build the Metro Gold Line light rail system from Union Station to Montclair, along the Foothills of the San Gabriel Valley. The agency completed the first segment from Union Station to Pasadena in 2003 and the Pasadena to Azusa segment in 2015; both on time and under budget. The agency began work on the Foothill Gold Line from Glendora to Montclair in 2003. The Glendora to Montclair project was environmentally cleared in March 2013 under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and completed advanced conceptual engineering in 2016. When completed, the extension will add new light rail stations in the cities of Glendora, San Dimas, La Verne, Pomona, Claremont and Montclair.
January 23, 2019
Mid Valley News
Page 16 Citrus College Continued from page 4
cal programs that are made relevant through partnerships with local business and industry. A recent poll by the Public Policy Institute of California found that Californians view jobs and the economy
as the most important priority for the state’s future. It also found that a majority of Californians support community colleges’ vital role in educating the workforce. The momentum and synergy created by regional projects, workforce development and higher education is certain to make 2019 a big, bold new year.
Student Artists continued from page 1
art program are usually in high school but this is the fourth time a student has been accepted directly from our eighth grade art program at Madrid,” said Parszik. “We are extremely proud of Bianca.” The application process involved submitting a student essay, a teacher recommendation and a representa-
and will continue in the spring and next year, equaling two years of free art instruction and all necessary art materials. “Bianca is one of the most talented students we’ve had at Madrid in recent years and I am so excited for her. She really belongs in a program like this,” said Parszik. During her time at Madrid Villeda had artwork honored at the L.A. County fair, receiving first place
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El Monte, California 91731 (626) 522-1944 FAX (626) 443-2245 Display Advertising: midvalleynewssgv@gmail.com Publisher/ Mid Valley Media Center Editor/ Feature Writer: Staff Asst. Editor/Graphic Designer/Social Media / Photographer: Devette Johnson Community Development Liaison: Mike McClure Media Relations Specialist: Staff
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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
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tion messages in six languages. The campaign features advertising on television, radio, outdoor signs, bus and train wraps, social and digital media, and high-profile special events including using the iconic Randy’s Donuts and Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel, and partnerships with major league sports teams to attract public and media attention. Lower water demands benefit the region’s long-term water reliability, an important hedge against drought periods and climate change. This speaks to the continued commitment of Southland consumers to use less water. In the Part IV of our report, the Metropolitan Water Districts highlights the sustainability of their projects and use of technology for greater efficiency.
tional drawing by the candidate. Villeda, now a freshman at Mt. View High School, started in the Ryman program this fall, which meets at the Otis College of Design,
ribbons in September 2018 and her artwork has been published in Celebrating Art as both a seventh grader and an eighth grader.
Healthcare continued from page 1
These proposals require that at least 30 percent of total California craft worker hours be performed by local residents and at least 10 percent be performed by Targeted Workers facing employment barriers. The construction projects will be funded by the County Department of Health Services. Sudoku Solution for 01.09.19
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