Peralta Hills Gazette- August 2011

Gazette VolumeXI - Issue 63 - Aug 2011

Newsletter of the Peralta Hills Estates Improvement Association ELECTED OFFICERS Board of Directors President: Patrick Mahoney 714-920-0445 Vice President: James Jekums 714-348-0930 Secretary: Helen Curtis 714-637-6605 Treasurer: Lucille Krueger 714-637-2796 Immediate Past President: Sonia S. Jekums 714-865-5276

Comittee Chairs

Public Relations: David Flores Steve Kitsigianis Welcome: Delia Cabo Linda Knohl Sonia S. Jekums Joan Schlund Neighborhood Watch: James Jekums 714-348-0930 Tracey Frazier 714-863-9997 Underground Utilities: Andy Plisko, M.D. Cathy Wills Peralta Hills Awards Beautification: Emily Guichet Steve Kitsigianis Patrick Mahoney Cathy Wills Annual Gala:Tom & Eileen Miller Crescent Drive Speed Control: Anne Dos Santos

Club Chairs

Book Club: Lois Howland 714-998-3045 Kids Club: Raza Kitsigianis 714-974-2056 Movie Club: Martha Mahoney 714-602-7159 Pet Registry: Cathy Wills 714-998-3716 Tennis Club: Joan Schlund 714-637-2638 Wine Club: Cathy Wills 714-998-3716

Editorial Staff

Editor in Chief: Sonia S. Jekums Associate Editor: Patrick Mahoney Columnists: Bette Aitken Sandra Day Robert Frazier Raza Kitsigianis Martha Mahoney Richard Stegemeier Joan Schlund Cassandra Chen Historian: Lucille Krueger Coming Together: Lois Howland Profile: Cathy Wills Potpourri: Helen Curtis Restaurant Review: Jeannette D. Curtis Humor: Craig Wildvank Graphic Designer: Sandy Chang

President’s

by Patrick Mahoney Each year as summer approaches I vow to spend at least part of it taking it easy, but this year was not much different than the proceeding years and I found myself busy as ever! I hope each of you had a chance to relax and take advantage of the long sunny days of summer. I felt like a kid again on the Fourth of July acting as mascot (and driver) for the Peralta Hills Kids’ Club during the traditional holiday parade. It was a blast to see the children having so much fun – and great to be a part of the excitement.

We were honored to have Anaheim Police Chief, John Welters, join us at our annual meeting on July 28th. Joining Chief Welters was David Flutts, Terri Welters, and Kerith L. Dilley, Executive Director of the Anaheim Family Justice Center Foundation (AFCJ). AFJC Foundation was selected to receive a $1,000.00 donation from PHEIA this year – it was great to be able to present it to them with the neighborhood there. Councilwoman Kris Murray and Chamber CEO, Todd Ament, were on hand at the meeting to quell any angst about the city’s Transitional Living Initiative. Kris and Todd provided a robust discussion on the background of the state law, SB 2, and the city’s plans to implement a policy that complies with the law but also protects our residential and business properties. Kris is dedicated to keeping PHEIA owners and residents up to date with the information as it rolls out. I thank them both for their commitment to our community.

We continued our efforts to green our neighborhood over the summer.

We were fortunate to have been part of a relocation program of native orange trees. So many groups requested trees and PHEIA was allocated 300! We hope to be placing them in common areas throughout the neighborhood to incorporate the feel of the historic citrus grove. We have completed the beautification of the entries at Royal Oak and Cerro Vista as Continued on page 2

Peralta Hills 2011 Gala hosts:

Tom & Eileen Miller

PAST PRESIDENTS IN RESIDENCE Richard Cramer Dr. Howard Knohl Bob McComber Sonia S. Jekums

management

Tammy Mount 714-307-6048 tkmount@sbcglobal.net

Corner

Tom & Eileen Miller

by Jolynn Benn This year’s Peralta Hills 15th Annual Gala will be held at the beautiful “beachfront” estate of Eileen & Tom Miller. The Millers just finished the complete landscape remodel of their backyard, which includes a lazy river pool that has several water and fire features, outdoor lounging areas amidst the tropical palm trees, and exotic foliage, a sandy beach, fire pits, volleyball court and other surprises that will transport you to “Fantasy Island”. The Millers also have one of the best views in Peralta Hills. Their estate has it all, a beautiful contemporary interior, a beach, and mountain views. Words cannot describe how amazingly fun and unique their new Continued on page 2

President’s Corner

Continued from page 1

well as the 300 block of Peralta Way with the installation of native ground cover, walking trails and benches. Take advantage of the cool evenings and take a stroll along these areas. I would love to hear what you think of the improvements.

Our Fall Social Season will start with a bang on October 1st. The 2011 neighborhood gala “Fantasy Island” will be held beachside at the estate of Tom and Eileen Miller. The whole committee did such a wonderful job pulling off a really fun evening. I look forward to these gatherings each year – they are so much fun. I love gathering together for a night of good food and good friends. All the improvements we are enjoying in our neighborhood have been due to the success of the annual gala. Jolynn and I hope to see you at Tom and Eileen’s!

Before we know it – the holiday season will be upon us – take time to stop and be thankful for all the abundance afforded to us in our fantastic neighborhood – I know I am truly blessed by your friendship & warmth. Cheers!

Gala Hosts

Continued from page 1 landscaping has turned out. You have to come and see it for yourself. Don’t miss this year’s 15th Annual Gala! Our theme is “Fantasy Island” where all your dreams come true. It will be so much fun! There will be delicious food, tropical drinks, live and silent auction items, and exotic animals.

Who knows, Mr. Roarke and Tatoo might even be there.

Pat and I are so proud to call the Millers our friends. If you have not met them yet, they are as beautiful on the inside as they are a handsome couple on the outside. They also have four beautiful children, Corey, Tiffany, Sabrina and Brandi. Corey just married his beautiful bride, Yvette, on July 23, 2011 at the Miller’s wonderful home. Corey is a graduate of Cal State University, Stanislaus, and he is now working in his father’s business with plans to take over the reins someday. Tiffany has been dancing since the age of four and has won many national championships giving her recognition as a dance performer and affording her the opportunity to perform for several professional dance teams. Tiffany has been a Los Angeles Clippers Dancer, a Chivas Girl for the Los Angeles Chivas Soccer Team, & she was just selected as a Boston Celtics Dance Team Member. She has recently relocated to Boston to embark on her new career. Sabrina is also a national champion dancer & was just chosen to be an Anaheim Ducks Power Player. She can be seen on the ice at the Honda Center for the upcoming 2011-2012 NHL Season. Brandi, their youngest daughter, was just chosen as one of the top ten dance soloists in Las Vegas. She followed that accomplishment up by being crowned “world champion” as part of a five member local team from Dance Precision, located in our very own Anaheim, California. The Miller children are as beautiful & talented as their parents.

Eileen and Tom were married in 1987. Next year will be their 25th wedding anniversary. From appearances, they are far too young to have four children (some all grown up), let alone old enough to be married for almost 25 years. Tom has a wicked good since of humor. Eileen is always happy, and just as nice as the day is long. They are a fun loving, gorgeous couple, forever young at heart and in spirit. Truly, that describes the Millers! Tom owns his own business, Dynamic Auto Images, with corporate headquarters in Orange. He started his business in 1985 and it now has over 400 employees throughout Southern California. Dynamic Auto Images has several divisions all of which tie into the automotive industry. Eileen is the backbone of the family and she makes it all work. The Millers are a God loving, well connected, blessed family and most of all...love people!

We are so fortunate that the Millers have so generously opened their “Fantasy Island” estate for us all to enjoy our 2011 Peralta Hills Estate Improvement Association Annual Gala. Please join us this year as we look for a record turnout. Come one, come all and see what dreams may come true! A fun time is guaranteed for all!

Tennis Anyone?

by Joan Schlund

So, you want to improve your tennis game? This is the goal of all serious players. The question that follows: “What can I do to become a better player?”

Let’s look at Novak Djokovic who seemingly has conquered the tennis world.

Perhaps the answer is as easy as 1,2,3. Since last year he has not eaten pizza, pasta, French bread, pretzels- anything with gluten.

Djokovic’s nutritionist discovered that Djokovic is allergic to the protein which is found in common flour. Djokovic has become the number one player of the year. His serve is precise and devastating; his forehand used to break down at tense moments, now he hits winners.

His backhand is impenetrable. He says he now feels much better on the court after being on a gluten-free diet and more energized.

David Levitsky, a professor of nutrition and psychology at Cornell University, said a gluten-free diet might have benefits for those with mild allergies, or even no allergy at all. Dr. Levitsky further stated that if you believe in a cause of your disorder, it becomes the cause.

“We see this in many different studies. If you believe it, you change your behavior in the direction of being cured.”

We now have the opportunity to watch tennis at its finest- the U.S. Open. Will Djokovic’s gluten-free diet give him the boost in confidence to win the U.S. Open?

PHEIA Management

by Tammy Mount

Peralta Hills Estates Improvement Association Board Meeting Date: Thursday, August 25th Location: Kimmie’s Coffee Cup, Placentia Attendees: Pat Mahoney- President Sonia Jekums- Immediate Past President Jamie Jekums- Vice President Tammy Mount- PHEIA Management Lucille Krueger- Treasurer Lane Curtis Helen Curtis- Secretary Zachery Klos Agenda & Minutes: • Zachery Klos, who is starting to complete his Eagle Scout Award, will be extending and designing the walking trail along Santa Ana Canyon Road near Cerro Vista. He will be active and in charge of the whole process starting at the City of Anaheim to get the proper permits, to designing the walkway with the elevation change, getting supplies, and helping build the pathway, to the completion. Lane offered to help direct him in contacting the city since it was originally part of the Wilmington tract and they may have a copy of the grading plans.

• The association was awarded three hundred, 15 gallon sized orange trees from the Irvine Company and the Great Park. Special thanks to Lucille Krueger who helped Patrick complete the application process. We plan on adding some of these on the hillside along Santa Ana Canyon Road from Lakeview to Royal Oak. A few have already been planted on the 600 block of Peralta Hills Drive.

• Around the end of September, the street around the 300 block of Peralta Hills Drive will be repaved. This is a joint venture with the city and our Association. It will widen the street on either side to help with passing while cars are parked on that street.

• Lucille Krueger donated ten date palms to be used around the neighborhood.

• Sonia would like to see more greenery on the hillside on Crescent. Currently, there are drought tolerant grasses in the area. We will see if wandering roses or ice plant will grow on that slope since the soil is a little rocky and might not take them.

• Our goal is to have all the entrances look similar (Lakeview, Cerro Vista, and Royal Oak) and have walking trails where feasible. We have installed benches and are working on another part of the trail on Santa Ana Canyon and the 300 block of Peralta Hills Drive.

• Our new year for dues has begun. We have received $15,000 so far and the second notice will be mailed this week to a little over 200 households.

• We were very happy with the turn out for the annual meeting. Thank-you letters were sent from the board to the guests and the hosts of the event.

• At the annual meeting, we decided to transfer the website to a home owners’ association generic site for ease with updating. We will be using hoaspace.com. This is in the works and will be up and running soon.

• There was a gala planning meeting on Tuesday, August 23rd at the Millers to discuss the planning and other details.

• We would like to welcome these families to our neighborhood: FINANCIAL OVERVIEW

• The • The • The • The • The • The • The

Doolings Djous Fillians Yuns Thompsons Keeters Pinedas

We hope to see them at some of the neighborhood functions very soon!

Go Green!

If you prefer an electronic version of the gazette, just send your e-mail address to tkmount@sbcglobal.net.

July 1, 2011 thru August 31, 2011

INCOME

EXPENSES

Dues 2011-2012

$

Gala Auction Items

$

Gala Tickets

15,000.00

Beautification

$

1,600.00

-

Board Meeting

$

100.00

$

-

Credit Card Fee

$

Gala Charged Items

$

-

Donation

$

Total Income

$

Gala Expense

$

15,000.00

53.00 1,000.00 -

Gazette Printing

$

-

Kids Club

$

227.28

Landscaping

$

1,600.00

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2011 Annual

Homeowners

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Meeting Minutes

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Our annual meeting was held at the beach front estate of Tom and Eileen Miller at 4830 E. Santa Ana Canyon Road, on Thursday, July 28th from 7-9PM. Thirty-three residents were in attendance in addition to our guest speakers from the Anaheim Police Department, Chief John Welter & his lovely wife, Terri, and Lieutenant Dave Flutts who joined Kerith Dilley, Executive Director of the Anaheim Family Justice Center Foundation to tell us what their organization does for the community. Todd Ament, CEO Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Kris Murray, Anaheim Council Member, attended to educate us about the Transitional Housing Zoning Code Amendment.

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The Association presented the Anaheim Family Justice Center Foundation, Inc. (AFJC) with a $1000 check in which Kerith Dilley and John Welter accepted. Each spoke about the foundation and the mission of the AFJC which is to colocate as many resources as possible in order to effectively and efficiently provide services for survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault and elder/dependent adult abuse.

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Todd Ament and Kris Murray spoke about the Transitional Housing Zoning Code Amendment. The City’s 2006-2014 Housing Element was adopted by the City Council back in August 11, 2009 and certified by the State Department of Housing and Community Development on September 2, 2009. The Housing Policy Program of the Housing Element contains an action item to implement a new state law requiring the City to permit supportive and transitional housing in residential zones without the need for discretionary approval, such as a conditional use permit.

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The landscaping keeps improving throughout the neighborhood. We will continue the walking path on Santa Ana Canyon Road from Lakeview to Cerro Vista and eventually to the 100 blocks of Peralta Hills Drive. The neighbors that are closest to the landscaping projects have generously allowed us to tie into their water supply to hydrate the new plantings. The Association won the Anaheim Beautiful Award for the plantings and railings along East Santa Ana Canyon Road and Craig and Roseli Wildvank won the Residential Beautification Award! Our landscaper works four hours each Friday around the neighborhood. Patrick and Tammy drive around and point items out to him each month.

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Since the website was put together by a resident that is no longer available, Tammy asked approval to change services and use a dedicated HOA site that would fit the neighborhood better; everyone agreed.

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Bob Frazier, the Gala Chair, moved here in 2005, and since then, the difference between the Galas is unbelievable.

This year the theme of the event is “Fantasy Island”. The goal is to have three hundred people at the event this year. Bob would like to expand on donating to the community and give back more. Don’t be surprised if you get a phone call from him asking you to attend and help out. There is a vacant lot behind the host house that will be used to valet the cars for the evening.

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A few questions came up about zoning which Lane answered, and some had concerns about the definition of a private road. The Police Chief said he would be happy to address. He also talked about safety while walking. Be sure to walk in the direction of on-going traffic so that you can see the vehicles coming.

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Crescent is still having problems with people speeding down the street so a speed trailer has been requested to be set up in the neighborhood.

Thank you to all the residents who attended the meeting. It is important to have as many residents attend and we hope to have more homeowners at the next meeting.

A very special thank you goes out to the Millers for hosting the meeting this year. We changed the venue so everyone could see where the Gala will be held. Thank you Tom, Eileen and the whole family for opening your home and being such gracious hosts.

Tammy Mount, Minute Taker & Association Manager

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Peralta Hills Wine Club

by Cathy Wills

The Peralta Hills Wine Club continues to grow with an average of fifty in attendance at each of the last three wine tastings.

On May 22nd, Fred and Laleh Graylee hosted an Italian wine tasting in their picturesque back yard.

It was a beautiful afternoon and a lot was learned about wines from Italy.

Mel and Margie opened their beautiful new estate for an elegant wine tasting in June that featured wines of California. Some magnificent wines were brought to the tasting and it was further proved that California produces some of the best wines in the world.

Larry and Bonnie Bann hosted a South American wine tasting on July 24th on their beautiful, newly re-landscaped grounds. I think everyone was surprised to find so many great wines from Chile, Argentina and Uruguay.

We are planning a couple more meetings for this Summer and Fall. If you are interested in attending any of the meetings or would like to be put on the email invitation list for information regarding future meetings, please contact Cathy at cawills@pacbell.net or at 714-998-3716.

Fred & Laleh

4th of July Parade

Mel & Margie

Larry & Bonnie

by Helen Curtis

Every Fourth of July, for many years we have had a few Peralta Hills Neighbors ride in a car or truck in the Parade to help celebrate Independence Day. This year, our Association President, Pat Mahoney, drove his ‘49 Chrysler with several passengers including 16 kids from the Peralta Hills Kids Club. It was quite a sight with everyone waving flags along Santa Ana Canyon Road. (We hope many of you were watching the Parade!)

The day began at 5:00 a.m. with a 5K and 10K run and walk at Canyon High School, followed by a dog show and then a pancake breakfast donated by the Rotary Club.

The Parade began about 3:00 p.m. and the spectacular fireworks display began at 9:00 p.m. Last year’s Parade was cancelled due to lack of funds. The owner of the Foxfire Restaurant made a generous donation to be sure that the Fireworks would be available and everyone was and is very grateful.

Margaret Holen was the chairman of the Parade this year with the theme of “We Shall Never Forget” to celebrate our patriotic and community spirit. All of the day’s activities are sponsored by local organizations and many participated this year. Lucille Kring, former city council woman was the Grand Marshall along with the Celebrity Grand Marshall, Mickey Mouse!

*SAVE THE DATE! Saturday, October 22nd for the Peralta Hills Kids Club Carnival*

Peralta Hills Kids Club

by Raza Kitsigianis

The Kids Club participated in the Annual 4 of July Parade. It was a great honor for the 16 kids, 14 years old or younger, that walked or rode in the 1949 Chrysler Convertible driven by Pat Mahoney.

The kids waved flags & cheered as they traveled down Santa Ana Canyon. It was a wonderful way to celebrate. The Kids Club would like to thank Pat Mahoney and the Association for all their support. th

Landon Benn, Krutcher Benn, Grace Mcalister, Sedona Benn, Kyle Kim, Brett Kim, Claire Kim, Lea Kitsigianis, Anastasia Kitsigianis, Brooke Tooma, Sandra Wills and Kyle Tooma Caroline, Jena Jekums, Brett Kim, Lea Kitsigianis, Kyle Kim, Claire Kim, Anastasia Kitsigianis and Sandra Wills

Pat Mahoney and Raza Kitzigianis

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PERALTA HILLS BEAUTIFICATION AWARDS

By Cathy Wills

July 2011 The Peralta Hills Beautification Committee met recently to nominate new Beautification Award recipients.

The basic criteria for the award is that the property shows pride of ownership, outstanding curb appeal, extraordinary landscaping and gardens or recent improvements that have increased the beauty of the property. Nominations take place in January, April, July and October.

The homeowners that receive this honor will be featured in an article in the Peralta Hills Gazette and will have a Peralta Hills Beautification Award sign displayed in their yard for approximately three months.

The Peralta Hills Beautification Award recipient for this quarter is:

The Bann family at 195 Starlight

CONGRATULATIONS to these very worthy recipients!! Special thanks to the Bann family for adding to the beauty of Peralta Hills.

Please join us this year in supporting the ongoing improvements of our beautiful neighborhood!

Meet with old friends and make new friends!

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Restaurant Review

by Jeannette D. Curtis

ANAHEIM RESTAURANT GETS RAMSIFIED

Luigi’s D’Italia

801 S. State College Blvd. | Anaheim, CA | 714.490.0990 Master Chef, Gordon Ramsay, recently upgraded Anaheim staple, Luigi’s D’Italia. Luigi’s, a familiar landmark on State College Blvd., is now a charming trattoria with a more authentic & simplistic menu.

As they enter, guests are still greeted by the oversized, arched portal offering glimpses into the kitchen, but gone are the kitschy ornaments as well as the map-of-Italy placemats. Instead, the walls are decorated with oversized Italian vintage luggage tags and stamps giving the restaurant a slight Roman Holiday feel.

The waiters, now uniformed in matching tees, give the restaurant a more sophisticated, professional aura.

The menu is also more sophisticated, emphasizing fresh ingredients. Instead of the 30 menu items Luigi’s once offered, the menu is paired down to about 15. The items are made to order, and unmistakably fresh. Many of the new menu items are rarely seen in restaurants with such modest prices. Carpaccio with fresh arugula is composed of thin slices of beef topped with aromatic fresh arugula and olive oil. With a glass of wine, it is the perfect appetizer.

Another authentic item is the bread salad. Bite-sized pieces of dried bread, red onions, tomatoes, and cucumber lightly dressed is rustic and refreshing.

Among the artisan touches at Luigi’s is handmade sausage and hand-crafted pizzas. The Luigi’s “Special” highlights both. The pizza is east-coast style & served with a generous amount of sausage and has a wonderful woodsy flavor.

While Luigi’s is a great pizza place, the unmistakable touches of a Michelin chef are evident. Veal, so often dry or partially dry at most restaurants, remains moist and tender throughout. How Luigi’s achieved this, I don’t know, but it is definitely worth ordering. Similarly, a ½ roast chicken was tender throughout, perfectly cooked, with the meat falling off the bone. Before the Ramsay’s visit, the food at Luigi’s was not very good. The portions were oversized, full of salt and grease, with very little attention given to individual menu items. It seemed like the chef was on autopilot.

Now, all ingredients are made to order and fresh. Short ribs are another good choice. They are tender and flavorful with a slight glaze on top. The veal parmesan was tasty. One could actually enjoy the individual elements of the dish.

It was not over sauced or salty.

There are many nice touches at Luigi’s, such as the focaccia with pepper infused oil as well as desserts. The Cannoli is not to be missed. The cannoli crust is fresh enough to discern the flavor of the crust. It is not the day-old flavorless pastry crust that is so often used. The cannoli is filled with cool cream and topped at one end by aromatic chocolate chips. Never a cannoli lover, Luigi’s cannoli converted me. I only wished I hadn’t agreed to share mine beforehand. Luigi’s tiramisu is unique. Unlike most tiramisu with discernable layers, Luigi’s tiramisu is a generous square of fluffy, cool cream, permeated with the unmistakable hint of coffee and liquor.

Gordon Ramsay has elevated this restaurant from being a homey restaurant with mediocre food, to a modest fine dining establishment. Luigi’s has gone from a place to avoid, to a place to enjoy.

Tecate

by Bette Aitken

Rancho La Puerta, the Cabos & Cerveceria Mexicali Tasting!

Wylie and I recently traveled to Tecate in Baja Mexico to attend a week long spa experience at Rancho La Puerta, located “barely” across the border (and the sister resort to the “Golden Door”). In its 70th year (founded in 1940), Rancho La Puerta (located on over 3,000 acres), is the winner of Travel + Leisure Magazine’s Best Spa Award in 2010 and 2011 and was also named by Condé Nast as one of the top 3 spas in the world.

Wylie and I were introduced to “the ranch”, as it’s called by Pat Boone and his daughters, while Wylie was representing his grandson after a very serious injury in a fall. The week allows you to recharge your life batteries in a life affirming change and renewed commitment to health. Filled with mountain hikes, garden strolls, exercise classes, guest lectures, meditation and yoga, cooking classes and all inclusive lodging and organic meals among many other activities located at the foot of Mount Kuchumaa“The Exalted High Place.”

Not just an oasis of beauty, it is a great place to make new friends. For instance, two years ago, we not only enjoyed watching Debbie Boone and her sisters perform, we had the good fortune to make many other friends including Maria Ortero, the under secretary of state (directly under Hillary Clinton) and her husband Joe Eldridge of American University. They traveled again to meet us this year at the spa (anyone would want to escape DC this year!)

This year’s visit was highlighted by another Peralta Hills twist, a visit to the Brewery of “Mexicali” beer owned by our neighbors and friends, Federico & Delia Cabo, who arranged a terrific visit topped off by a dinner at ASAO, an exquisite restaurant.

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Continued on page 10

Wylie & Bette Aitken and friends

Humor

by Craig Wildvank

Hello Peralta Hills Neighbors, Last year’s gala was a big success as you can see with all the improvements that have been going on in our community. I thank all of the loyal contributors who help to make this happen every year! For the ones whom haven’t gotten involved yet, let this be the year to show your support and have a voice in the improvements of Peralta Hills. Every neighbor benefits from these improvements. So please show up this year and meet some great people who care about our community! Or for the ones whom hate my jokes, it will give you a opportunity to punch me in my nose! So either way please show your support!

A man is drinking with his wife when out of the blue he announces, “I love you.”

“Is that your beer talking?” she asks.

“It’s me,” he says, “Talking to the beer.”

Vatican Humor

After getting all of Pope Benedict’s luggage loaded into the limo, (and he doesn’t travel light), the driver notices the Pope is still standing on the curb.

“Excuse me, Your Holiness,” says the driver, “Would you please take your seat so we can leave?”

“Well, to tell you the truth,” says the Pope, ‘they never let me drive at the Vatican when I was a cardinal, and I’d really like to drive today..”

“I’m sorry, Your Holiness, but I cannot let you do that. I’d lose my job! What if something should happen?” protests the driver, wishing he’d never gone into work that morning.

“Who’s going to tell?” says the Pope with a smile.

Reluctantly, the driver gets in the back as the Pope climbs in behind the wheel. The driver quickly regrets his decision when, after exiting the airport, the Pontiff floors it, accelerating the limo to 205 kms. (Remember, the Pope is German) “Please slow down, Your Holiness!” pleads the worried driver, but the Pope keeps the pedal to the metal until they hear sirens.

“Oh, dear God, I’m going to lose my license -- and my job!” moans the driver.

The Pope pulls over and rolls down the window as the cop approaches, but the cop takes one look at him, goes back to his motorcycle, and gets on the radio.

“I need to talk to the Chief,” he says to the dispatcher.

The Chief gets on the radio and the cop tells him that he’s stopped a limo going 205 kph.

“So bust him,” says the Chief.

“I don’t think we want to do that, he’s really important,” said the cop.

The Chief exclaimed, ”All the more reason!”

“No, I mean really important,” said the cop with a bit of persistence.

The Chief then asked, “Who do you have there, the mayor?”

Cop: “Bigger.”

Chief: “A senator?”

Cop: ‘“Bigger.”

Chief: “The Prime Minister?”

Cop: “Bigger.”

“Well,” said the Chief, “who is it?”

Cop: “I think it’s God!” The Chief is even more puzzled and curious, “What makes you think it’s God?” Cop: “His chauffeur is the Pope!”

The Baptist Cowboy

A cowboy, who just moved to Wyoming from Texas , walks into a bar and orders three mugs of Bud. He sits in the back of the room, drinking a sip out of each one in turn. When he finishes them, he comes back to the bar and orders three more.

The bartender approaches and tells the cowboy, “You know, a mug goes flat after I draw it. It would taste better if you bought one at a time.”

The cowboy replies, “Well, you see, I have two brothers. One is in Arizona , the other is in Colorado . When we all left our home in Texas , we promised that we’d drink this way to remember the days when we drank together. So I’m drinking one beer for each of my brothers and one for myself.”

The bartender admits that this is a nice custom, and leaves it there.

The cowboy becomes a regular in the bar, and always drinks the same way. He orders three mugs and drinks them in turn.

One day, he comes in and only orders two mugs. All the regulars take notice and fall silent. When he comes back to the bar for the second round, the bartender says, “I don’t want to intrude on your grief, but I wanted to offer my condolences on your loss.”

The cowboy looks quite puzzled for a moment, then a light dawns in his eyes and he laughs.

“Oh no, everybody’s just fine,” he explains, “It’s just that my wife and I joined the Baptist Church and I had to quit drinking.”

“Hasn’t affected my brothers though.”

Blueberry Facts

by Raza Kitsigianis

Blueberry season is from May to September so here are some blueberry facts & picking tips: • Look for berries with a silvery ‘bloom’- this is a natural protective coating. They should be refrigerated as quickly as possible & kept dry. Do not wash until you are ready to use them. They will last for up to 2 weeks if stored properly.

• Select blueberries that are firm, dry, plump, and smooth-skinned. Berries should be deep-purple blue to blue-black; reddish berries aren’t ripe but can be used in cooking.

• Blueberries tend to change color during cooking. Acids, like lemon juice and vinegar, make the blue in blueberries turn red. In an alkaline environment, such as a batter with too much baking soda, the blueberries may turn greenish-blue.

• To reduce the amount of color streaking, stir your blueberries (right from your freezer, if frozen) into your cake or muffin batter last.

• When making pancakes and waffles, add the blueberries as soon as the batter has been poured on the griddle or waffle iron. This will make the pancakes prettier and they’ll be easier to flip. If frozen blueberries are used, cooking time may have to be increased to be sure the berries are heated through.

• Wild blueberries are smaller in size compared to their cultivated cousins.

Blueberries have a protective light powdery coating on the skins and tend to last longer than other berry varieties. Nearly half of the cultivated blueberries grown are sold as fresh blueberries. Fresh blueberries are available for nearly eight months of the year from producers across the United States and Canada.

• Blueberries are a good source of Vitamin C and contain significant quantities of both antibacterial and antiviral compounds, and have a reputation in northern Europe of fighting infections.They may also help protect against heart disease.

How to Keep Ants Away

by Raza Kitsigianis

During the warm months of spring and summer, ants tend to make their way into homes and other buildings. The following steps will help keep ants outdoors and away from the interior of your home.

The most important thing to do is to be aggressive about keeping a clean house.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Scrub your kitchen, making sure there are no food spills, crumbs of bread or anything else sitting out for ants to eat.

Clean kitchen counters with bleach or a water-vinegar mixture every day.

Store food in the refrigerator or in air-tight containers.

Do not keep containers of food on the floor.

Pay attention to your sink. Never leave dirty dishes sitting out, and make sure there is no standing water in the sink for ants to drink.

6. Pour some bleach down the drain to remove any food smells that might attract ants.

7. Rinse containers before putting them in the recycling bin.

8. You should also regularly sweep or mop your kitchen floor, and vacuum any rooms where food is consumed.

9. Take your trash out regularly.

10. Use extra-strength trash bags; weak bags could leak.

11. Make sure any outside trash bins have tightly-sealed, closed lids.

12. Fix any leaks, as the water can attract ants.

Tecate

Continued from page 8

The Otero’s, with sister and brother-in-law and the Aitkens arrived at the state of the art brewery at 4pm and were met by Francisco, the plant manager, and the general manager, Leonard Moreno, who led the tour. The Cervecería Mexicana, S. de R.L. de C.V is the thrid largest in Mexico and produces Chile beer, Mexacali beer and Red Pic ale, all of which were tasted by us and our friends. We also visited, with the chemist, the chemistry lab which regulates quality control. Did you know that Trader Jose’s Beer is really Mexicali Beer?

Though we have had some fine wine tastings in Peralta Hills, Wylie and I are planning a beer tasting for all our neighbors which will rival them all (we just haven’t told Federico and Delia yet!)

Page 10

Peralta Hills’ Amazing “Coyotes”

by Francisca Klos

Twelve stellar students from our Peralta Hills neighborhood were promoted from El Rancho Charter Middle School on Friday, June 17, 2011. With their high academic honors amongst other achievements they are wonderful representatives of our special community.

Highlights of the day, in addition to the academic recognitions, were the beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Alana Hamilton, daughter of Len and Robin Hamilton, and the presentation of the prestigious “Female Coyote Award” to Jena Jekums, daughter of Teddy Jekums and Michelle Maloney & grand daughter of past Peralta Hills Estates Improvement Association President, Sonia Jekums. Jena was selected for this top honor out of a group of 570 students by El Rancho’s teachers and administrators for her excellence in academics, attitude, extra curricular endeavors, voluntary work, athletic activities & her noteworthiness above all others in all areas. Way to go Jena, and what a lovely job, Alana!

We congratulate Bennet Cinkle, Katie Crampton, Krystian Ibanez, Jena Jekums, Zachary Klos, Nicole Lanphier, Zainab Moosani, Sean McGowan, Simi Patel, Cassandra Chen, Alana Hamilton and Janelle Takahama for their achievements and excellence Jena Jekums with her Female and wish them well in all their future endeavors. They make us all proud and we know Coyote of the Year Trophy because of them our future will be bright.

Heavy Duty Champions

by Francisca K. Klos

Could a structure made of only 1/8 inch pieces of wood, foil, and glue that was just 7.5 inches tall and weighed just 19 grams (which is about as much weight as a few quarters) stand strong and help secure “The Team that Forgot to Be Named” a top place in the Destination ImagiNation Global Finals? YES, it could! Holding an amazing 885 pounds, the structure along with the team’s fourth place win in their Instant Challenge, earned them 7th Place overall at this worldwide championship tournament held May 25th-28th in Knoxville, Tennessee. Competing against 82 teams from across the United States and around the world, the team had to present their solution about a character that needed to be foiled in just eight minutes. Weights had to be stacked. Team written 7th Place Destination ImagiNation World Champions: and published verses had to be incorporated and “The Team that Forgot to Be Named” highlighted, and props had to be displayed in Left to right: Zachary Mips, William Klos, Jonathan Johnson, Matthew their performance. The team, made up of Jesse & Carter, Jesse Johnson, and Zachary Klos Jonathan Johnson from Cerro Villa Middle School, Matthew Carter and Zachary Klos from El Rancho Charter School, and William Klos and Zachary Mips from Nohl Canyon Elementary worked all year to accomplish their wins. Building and testing many, many structures, creating a giant Loch Ness monster, and large foil submarine, writing and rewriting their script, as well as painting colorful backdrops, and practicing Instant Challenges filled many of their afternoons and weekends and led to their success. Prior to this, a first place win at the Destination ImagiNation California State Tournament led to the team’s honor of representing the state in the Global Finals. With students like these, we know our nation’s future is in good hands.

Zachary and William Klos live in Peralta Hills and wish to thank the Peralta Hills Estates Improvement Association and neighborhood residents who supported them in their trip to Global Finals. They are very grateful for the help they received which allowed them to have this unforgettable experience.

Destination ImagiNation is a non-profit group that promotes creativity, problem solving, team work and out of the box thinking through academic challenges for students in kindergarten through the university. To learn more about Destination ImagiNation please visit their website at www.IDODI.org.

Editorial

by Sonia S. Jekums

Health in focus

In acknowledgement to the physicians who shared comprehensive information on their various fields of specialized medicine, we would like to thank them by reprinting their bios.

These distinguished group of physicians represents the Best of the Best in their field.

Helen Luong, M.D.

Dr. Helen Luong is a board certified obstetrician and gynecologist practicing in the Anaheim area for over ten years. Dr. Luong received her bachelor degree in biology from Occidental College and her medical degree from University of Southern California, School of Medicine.

She completed her residency training at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. She is a member of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology and American Association of Gynecology Laparoscopists, as well as the Orange County Obstetrical & Gynecological Society. Dr. Luong’s expertise spans the full spectrum of women’s care. From adolescent gynecology to cutting edge, minimally invasive surgeries, she is committed to saying at the forefront of medical technology while providing individualized care with a warm personal touch. She loves being an Ob/Gyn and appreciates being able to care of women throughout different phases or their lives. Dr. Luong is a resident of Peralta Hills.

For more information, please go to www.helenluongmd.com or call 714.535.8900.

Dr. Richard Kim earned his Bachelor of Science degree in biochemistry from University of California, Riverside. This followed with a Masters of Science in biochemistry and neurophysiology. He then went on to earn his Medical Degree from St. Louis School of Medicine in Missouri, graduating Magna Cum Laude. More significantly, that’s where he met his wife, Dr. Gregory (see below).

He performed his postgraduate training in General Surgery at New York University, followed

by Neurosurgery residency also at NYU. He then went on to advanced training with a fellowship in Epilepsy Surgery at Yale University School of Medicine. Dr. Kim is a diplomate of the American Board of Neurological Surgeons. He is currently Medical Director of the Hoag Functional Neurosurgery Program of the Hoag Neuroscience Institute in Newport Beach, California (3900 W. Coast Hwy #300, Newport Beach, CA 92663; 949.642.6787).

Dr. Richard Kim

An active researcher, Dr. Kim has published numerous scientific articles, authored and co-authored numerous textbook chapters and has been an invited speaker at many professional conferences. His subject areas of publication range widely, and include brain tumors, spinal disorders, brainstem vascular disorders, epilepsy, and even the use of the Internet in the publication of neurosurgical information.

He is active in many professional organizations, serving on committees with the American Epilepsy Society, the Epilepsy Alliance of Orange County, the Epilepsy Foundation of America and the American Association of Neurological Surgeons.

Dr. Kim is a highly skilled and experienced neurosurgeon, with expertise in complex neurosurgical treatments for brain tumors, movement disorders, spinal disorders, hydrocephalus, epilepsy, trigeminal neuralgia and others.

An avid cyclist, Dr. Kim enjoys competitive mountain and road cycling and was the 2008 California State Mountain Bike Champion. He lives in Peralta Hills, California with his wife and 3 children.

Dr. Anita Gregory graduated magna cum laude from U.C. Santa Barbara and obtained her medical degree from St. Louis University, School of Medicine. She completed her general surgery residency and colon & rectal surgery fellowship at St. Luke’s-Roosevelt Hospital, Columbia University in New York. She is board certified in both general and colon & rectal surgery. She is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society, the Association of Women Surgeons, and has served as president of the Women Doctors of Orange County. She is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons. She currently is the codirector of the Colorectal Program and director of the Cancer Dr. Anita Gregory Genetics program at St. Joseph Hospital Center for Cancer Prevention & Treatment. Her office address is 1010 W. la Veta Ave., Suite 470, Orange CA, 92868; 714.835.8300.

Dr. Gregory & Dr. Kim have lived in Peralta Hills since 2003 and are the proud and busy parents of Brett, and twins, Kyle & Claire (all pictured on the right).

In the next issue, acknowledgement to the following Phycisians: Dr. Howard Knohl and Dr. Rakesh Bhola