By Jerry Bernstein
The battle for control of Hawaiian Gardens broke into the open at the city council meeting this week when recall papers were served to Councilmember Barry Bruce.
Two weeks ago recall papers were filed on Councilmember Mike Gomez with the city clerk.
Gomez, along with Mayor Victor Farfan and Mayor Pro Tem Michiko Oyama-Canada make up a majority vote on the council. Bruce and Councilmember Reynaldo Rodriguez have accused the majority of ganging up on them when voting on city matters, although in recent weeks all five council members appeared to be working closer together on most issues. This detente has now been torn apart by the two recalls.
Bruce has been accused by Gomez supporters of being behind the Gomez recall. Bruce has denied being involved with the recall, as has Councilmember Reynaldo Rodriguez who was elected to the council with Bruce in the last city election.
Under state law, the signatures on a recall petition have to be submitted to the city clerk and then sent to the county for verification. Once verified by the county, the backers of the recall have 60 days to gather signatures of 25 percent of the registered voters in the city in order to place it on the ballot. In this case they have to gather 1,000 signatures.
Supporters of Gomez filled the council chambers, many who spoke on his behalf, questioning why a petition for his recall had been filed. All attested to his character and his work on behalf of the city in order to make it a better place to live.
Hawaiian Gardens’ resident Nidia Mabeos described him as representing the community. “He is the community. He has always told the truth to the community and works for the community.”
Daniel Roe said he regrets the move to recall Gomez. “He is an honorable man and a true public servant.” He said he hopes the people in the community will support him.
Turning to Councilmember Bruce he accused him of not speaking the truth and accused him of being corrupt. “A line in the sand has been drawn,” he asserted, “and you sir are on the wrong side.”
Tri City Regional Medical Center Community Relations Director Mary Lou Landes said she has work in Hawaiian Gardens and those who were watching the meeting know her. “This recall on Mike Gomez is wrong.” She said she works with him on the Southeast Collaborative. “He gets things done for the city and its children.” She said she has not spoken before the council in 12 years and this is only her second time. “Mr. Gomez is a man of integrity and a man of God. “ She said those backing his recall need to really look at their life and what you are doing to this city of Hawaiian Gardens.
Landes concluded by saying , “When the city had the gang injunctions it tore our little city apart. We all had to come together in different counseling modes with the children whose families had been taken away. It wasn’t us against them. We had to cure this city.”
She said Mike Gomez, who was Mayor at the time, led the city on a new path.
Varlerie Mason, Manager of the Hawaiian Gardens Apartments on Centralia Road praised Gomez for bringing the city residents together. She said don’t believe the hype attached to the recall. She then served Bruce with a copy of his recall papers and gave the original to the city clerk.
Involvement Denied
Responding to accusations that he and Councilman Bruce were involved in the Gomez recall, Councilmember Reynaldo Rodriguez empathically denied any involvement in it. “I can tell you I am not and I can tell you Councilman Bruce is not part of that recall,” he stated. “I don’t need to bow to anybody. I was elected by the people, 420 votes. What you need to do, he told the Gomez supporters present, is talk to the people who voted for him. What I’m saying is I am not part of this recall. You can believe me or not.”
Bruce also asserted he was not involved in the recall of Mike Gomez. He said Hawaiian Gardens was noted for its gossip, hearsay, and for people who spread rumors and lies. ‘’Even from this podium, at every council meeting, lies, lies and more lies.” He said if the people of Hawaiian Gardens would check the record they would discover there are liars on their cable television. He accused the liars of not telling the truth about the Ministry he has worked for over 29 years in Hawaiian Gardens, attacks on his morality and ethics and his character. He challenged the people to check the record for themselves.
Bruce accused the council majority of shutting down Rodriguez and himself on matters pertaining to fiscal responsibility and governmental ethics. He said he has tried to work with the majority on the council. He urged the people not to believe gossip and hearsay.
Mayor Pro Tem Oyama-Canada responded to Bruces’s accusation that the majority on the council had shut him and Mr. Rodriguez down saying, “We have the right to vote for what we feel is best for the city.”
Mayor Farfan said he has lived in Hawaiian Gardens his entire life. To him the recalls are just a distraction, something that won’t benefit the city. “We have made big strides during the past few years. We need to work through this and come together,” he said.
Turning to the question of fiscal responsibility, he said Mr. Gomez and himself were part of the 2008 council that decided to change the city election date to coincide with the School Board election, raising the amount put into the reserve from $500,000 to $950,000 annually because the council felt it was a more conservative move. “It wasn’t that we wanted to spend all the city’s money. Now we are being blamed for being fiscally irresponsible.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
ABC Unified School District awarded High School Counseling Grant
By Jerry Bernstein
Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (D-CA) announced the Department of Education has awarded a grant to ABC Unified School District to establish or expand elementary and secondary school counseling programs.
“I am pleased to see ABC Unified School District receive these funds,” said Rep. Linda Sánchez. “To succeed in school, many students need assistance and support both inside and outside the classroom. School counselors help students reach their full potential and play an integral part in the educational process.”
The grant will be in the amount of $396,336 for the period Aug. 1, 2010 through July 31 2011. ABC Unified will use the funds to support or establish counseling programs and hire qualified school counselors, school social workers, school psychologists, or child and adolescent psychiatrists with a goal of expanding the range, availability, quantity and quality of counseling services available. Counseling services will use a developmental, prevention approach and will be designed and implemented with the involvement of parents of the participating students.
“We are absolutely delighted that ABC is the recipient of the federal Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Program Grant,” said Dr. Mary Sieu, Deputy Superintendent. “Our grant, called the High School Intervention Program, will help to expand counseling services for all five high schools in the District. We will be working with our local area mental health agencies to provide school social workers and mental health counselors to implement a program that focuses on preventive measures as well as involving parents of the participating students. This grant is a much needed resource for our District and we welcome the new opportunities it brings for our students and families.”
In January, the House of Representatives passed H. Res. 1029, Sánchez’ resolution to honor the important role school counselors play in the lives of students across the country. Sánchez has also sponsored the Put School Counselors Where They’re Needed Act, H.R. 5671, legislation that would provide funding for additional counselors in high schools with high drop-out rates, and H.R. 1361, Increased Student Achievement Through Increased Student Support Act, to train and place more professional school counselors, social workers, and psychologists in low-income neighborhoods.
Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (D-CA) announced the Department of Education has awarded a grant to ABC Unified School District to establish or expand elementary and secondary school counseling programs.
“I am pleased to see ABC Unified School District receive these funds,” said Rep. Linda Sánchez. “To succeed in school, many students need assistance and support both inside and outside the classroom. School counselors help students reach their full potential and play an integral part in the educational process.”
The grant will be in the amount of $396,336 for the period Aug. 1, 2010 through July 31 2011. ABC Unified will use the funds to support or establish counseling programs and hire qualified school counselors, school social workers, school psychologists, or child and adolescent psychiatrists with a goal of expanding the range, availability, quantity and quality of counseling services available. Counseling services will use a developmental, prevention approach and will be designed and implemented with the involvement of parents of the participating students.
“We are absolutely delighted that ABC is the recipient of the federal Elementary and Secondary School Counseling Program Grant,” said Dr. Mary Sieu, Deputy Superintendent. “Our grant, called the High School Intervention Program, will help to expand counseling services for all five high schools in the District. We will be working with our local area mental health agencies to provide school social workers and mental health counselors to implement a program that focuses on preventive measures as well as involving parents of the participating students. This grant is a much needed resource for our District and we welcome the new opportunities it brings for our students and families.”
In January, the House of Representatives passed H. Res. 1029, Sánchez’ resolution to honor the important role school counselors play in the lives of students across the country. Sánchez has also sponsored the Put School Counselors Where They’re Needed Act, H.R. 5671, legislation that would provide funding for additional counselors in high schools with high drop-out rates, and H.R. 1361, Increased Student Achievement Through Increased Student Support Act, to train and place more professional school counselors, social workers, and psychologists in low-income neighborhoods.
Rash of robberies hit Little India
By Jerry Bernstein
Little India in Artesia has been hit with a rash of two burglaries and an armed robbery in the past month. In a report to the city council at its meeting Aug. 9, Sgt Graig Knapp with the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department said burglars broke into Surati Farsaan Market at 3:14 a.m. on July 28 and made off with two flat screen televisions.
On June 24 Ambala Cash and Carry was also burglarized sometime between 11 p.m. and 10 a.m. on June 24. More than $2,000 in cash was taken. In another incident, three armed men robbed Highglow Jewelers in the early afternoon on July 23, holding a female employee hostage during the robbery. The get away with more than one and a half kilos of gold jewelry valued approximately $35,000. The three fled in a car driven by a fourth suspect.
Sheriff deputies pursued the fleeing men, chasing them into a cul-de-sac in Cerritos. The four then fled on foot, one, which was caught immediately while a second suspect, was apprehended several hours later. Deputies shut down a portion of the 91 Freeway as they searched for the two remaining suspects. A K-9 Sheriff unit was dispatched to find the remaining two who were taken into custody at 7:30 p.m. that evening.
All four were arrested and charged with kidnapping, robbery, evading arrest in a vehicle and assault with a deadly weapon. The four are Bobby White, 20 of Fresno; Corey Harper, 24, of Bellflower; Ronnel Kirks, 20, of South Los Angeles; and Jabarri Pangelinian, 20, also of South Los Angeles. White was also charge with processing a concealed weapon and Kirke charge with a parole violation, all stolen items were recovered.
Councilmember Sally Flowers asked Sgt. Knapp what he thought was the cause in the increase in burglaries. He replied it could be the recession and lack of employment. However, he told the council he didn’t believe this indicated a new wave of crime was happening. Overall crime in the city is down, he said.
In other business the council scheduled a public hearing on a city ordinance updating the city’s entertainment permit requirements, providing for temporary entertainment permit and establishing a reduced business license tax for temporary entertainment uses.
The council denied a variance to Mohammed Shahab Ullah of Long Beach to construct a new two-story single family dwelling for property located at 12231 183rd St. in a single-family residential [R-1] zone
Redevelopment and Planning Director Okina Dor said three variances were requested. They included exceeding the 50per cent lot coverage to 54 percent, provided less than the required 20 ft. front yard setback to 12 ft., and to provide less than the required 10 ft. street side-yard setback to five ft. in order to construct a two story single family dwelling. He said following a public hearing the planning commission voted to deny the variances.
Dor said the applicant was notified the planning department wood recommend denial of the variances. However, Ullah decided to move forward with the original plans and appeal the denial to the city council.
Following the council’s upholding the commission’s recommendation, he said he was willing to change the plans and submit a new one to the planning department.
The council continued a request to its September meeting for a massage parlor permit for Heaven Center at 18403 Pioneer Blvd. At issue were the qualifications of the six massage technicians, specifically if they attended a massage school recognized by the state of California. The council f said the applicant should come back when the massage technicians have received their certificates from a state recognized school.
A request for a conditional use permit by Dae B. Park of Norwalk to operate an acupuncture facility at 17004 Alburtis Ave. was approved by he council.
The council also approved a request for a conditional use permit allowing a warehouse used at 17004 Alburtis Ave. The property is in the Light Manufacturing and industrial [M-1] zone. Planning Director Dor said the structure would house dry goods and other items sold in a market.
Little India in Artesia has been hit with a rash of two burglaries and an armed robbery in the past month. In a report to the city council at its meeting Aug. 9, Sgt Graig Knapp with the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department said burglars broke into Surati Farsaan Market at 3:14 a.m. on July 28 and made off with two flat screen televisions.
On June 24 Ambala Cash and Carry was also burglarized sometime between 11 p.m. and 10 a.m. on June 24. More than $2,000 in cash was taken. In another incident, three armed men robbed Highglow Jewelers in the early afternoon on July 23, holding a female employee hostage during the robbery. The get away with more than one and a half kilos of gold jewelry valued approximately $35,000. The three fled in a car driven by a fourth suspect.
Sheriff deputies pursued the fleeing men, chasing them into a cul-de-sac in Cerritos. The four then fled on foot, one, which was caught immediately while a second suspect, was apprehended several hours later. Deputies shut down a portion of the 91 Freeway as they searched for the two remaining suspects. A K-9 Sheriff unit was dispatched to find the remaining two who were taken into custody at 7:30 p.m. that evening.
All four were arrested and charged with kidnapping, robbery, evading arrest in a vehicle and assault with a deadly weapon. The four are Bobby White, 20 of Fresno; Corey Harper, 24, of Bellflower; Ronnel Kirks, 20, of South Los Angeles; and Jabarri Pangelinian, 20, also of South Los Angeles. White was also charge with processing a concealed weapon and Kirke charge with a parole violation, all stolen items were recovered.
Councilmember Sally Flowers asked Sgt. Knapp what he thought was the cause in the increase in burglaries. He replied it could be the recession and lack of employment. However, he told the council he didn’t believe this indicated a new wave of crime was happening. Overall crime in the city is down, he said.
In other business the council scheduled a public hearing on a city ordinance updating the city’s entertainment permit requirements, providing for temporary entertainment permit and establishing a reduced business license tax for temporary entertainment uses.
The council denied a variance to Mohammed Shahab Ullah of Long Beach to construct a new two-story single family dwelling for property located at 12231 183rd St. in a single-family residential [R-1] zone
Redevelopment and Planning Director Okina Dor said three variances were requested. They included exceeding the 50per cent lot coverage to 54 percent, provided less than the required 20 ft. front yard setback to 12 ft., and to provide less than the required 10 ft. street side-yard setback to five ft. in order to construct a two story single family dwelling. He said following a public hearing the planning commission voted to deny the variances.
Dor said the applicant was notified the planning department wood recommend denial of the variances. However, Ullah decided to move forward with the original plans and appeal the denial to the city council.
Following the council’s upholding the commission’s recommendation, he said he was willing to change the plans and submit a new one to the planning department.
The council continued a request to its September meeting for a massage parlor permit for Heaven Center at 18403 Pioneer Blvd. At issue were the qualifications of the six massage technicians, specifically if they attended a massage school recognized by the state of California. The council f said the applicant should come back when the massage technicians have received their certificates from a state recognized school.
A request for a conditional use permit by Dae B. Park of Norwalk to operate an acupuncture facility at 17004 Alburtis Ave. was approved by he council.
The council also approved a request for a conditional use permit allowing a warehouse used at 17004 Alburtis Ave. The property is in the Light Manufacturing and industrial [M-1] zone. Planning Director Dor said the structure would house dry goods and other items sold in a market.
La Palma adopts "User Fee Schedule" during council meeting
By Loreen Berlin
La Palma City Council adopted the “User fee Schedule” during its regularly scheduled meeting Monday, Aug. 3. The User Fee Schedule passed by five yes votes.
Finance Director Keith Neves reported that after two study sessions held Jan. 19 and June 1, Council gave direction to maintain the fees at the existing levels, except for those that are found to be higher than the actual cost.
“Some fees have been combined, renamed, and added, to conform to existing practices,” Neves said in his report. “Staff will look into resident and non-resident usage fees at a later date.”
Passing the User Fee Schedule as is, will result in a decrease in General Fund revenue of approximately $6,500, Neves said, and the Schedule will be reviewed annually with the budget.
Neves said that La Palma’s fees continue to be lower than surrounding community’s fees.
The last La Palma fee study was in 2003 and the last increases were in the fiscal year 2006-2007.
“The consultant recommends annual updating of the Fee Schedule based on city labor costs.”
La Palma currently uses $1.6 million in taxes to support fee or potential-fee services and roughly $150,600 could be recovered by requiring certain services to either “pay their own way” or at least pay more of their own way, Neves said
For La Palma City information, call 714-690-3333.
Loreen Berlin can be reached at loreenberlin@verizon.net
La Palma City Council adopted the “User fee Schedule” during its regularly scheduled meeting Monday, Aug. 3. The User Fee Schedule passed by five yes votes.
Finance Director Keith Neves reported that after two study sessions held Jan. 19 and June 1, Council gave direction to maintain the fees at the existing levels, except for those that are found to be higher than the actual cost.
“Some fees have been combined, renamed, and added, to conform to existing practices,” Neves said in his report. “Staff will look into resident and non-resident usage fees at a later date.”
Passing the User Fee Schedule as is, will result in a decrease in General Fund revenue of approximately $6,500, Neves said, and the Schedule will be reviewed annually with the budget.
Neves said that La Palma’s fees continue to be lower than surrounding community’s fees.
The last La Palma fee study was in 2003 and the last increases were in the fiscal year 2006-2007.
“The consultant recommends annual updating of the Fee Schedule based on city labor costs.”
La Palma currently uses $1.6 million in taxes to support fee or potential-fee services and roughly $150,600 could be recovered by requiring certain services to either “pay their own way” or at least pay more of their own way, Neves said
For La Palma City information, call 714-690-3333.
Loreen Berlin can be reached at loreenberlin@verizon.net
Re: The new health care reform tax
"Cause I'm the Taxman… and you're working for no one but me" – from the song "Taxman" by the Beatles
This past weekend we received a campaign mail piece paid for with your tax dollars laughably entitled "Protecting Families' Financial Security". When selling the Healthcare "Reform" Bill that barely passed both the Senate and House without Republican support, Democrats in Congress said that the new mandate to force us to buy health insurance or pay a penalty was not a tax and our taxes would not rise.
However, according to Robert Pear of the New York Times, the Obama Administration has in court argued that they are allowed to implement this new mandate under the government's "power to lay and collect taxes". The reason they are in court is that twenty states and several private organizations have sued the federal government making the legal claim that this new mandate is unconstitutional and should be struck from the new law. In response the Administration is making the case, that the "power to lay and collect taxes" is more sweeping than the interstate commerce clause, in the scope of power it gives to the Federal Government.
Should the Administration prevail in the courts, not only would everyone be subjected to this new invasive tax, but further invasive taxation would be green lighted in future years. The only way to stop this attack on all of our wallets is to make sure true fiscal conservatives are in charge of both Houses of the Congress and the White House. While some elected Democrats are fiscally conservative, our own Congresswoman Linda Sanchez is not, as she has consistently voted to take more money out of the pockets of everyone, sometimes directly and sometimes through mandates like this new one, and then spend it on activities that have not solved the unemployment and foreclosure problems gripping her district. As such jobs have been killed-off in the district; the only new jobs come either in spite of government or are temporary due to temporary government funding. This is not the way to spur economic recovery in an economy where in some parts of Linda's district the unemployment rate is above 20%, with families losing their homes because they cannot find a job(s) that pays their bills.
Meanwhile the stated July unemployment number in L.A. County is 588,000 people, this does not include the numbers of folks whose unemployment benefits have stopped and have lost hope of finding a job or are scraping by with whatever temporary work they can get. On top of that, newspapers are filled with going out of business auctions where small, medium and large businesses are selling off equipment and inventory after laying-off workers, because these businesses can't pay their bills after paying their taxes and regulatory compliance costs.
Last thought, it is heartbreaking when one considers that the only real growth industries left in California are auction houses and politics, thanks to fiscally irresponsible career politicians like Congresswoman Linda Sanchez.
Matt Kauble
Cerritos
This past weekend we received a campaign mail piece paid for with your tax dollars laughably entitled "Protecting Families' Financial Security". When selling the Healthcare "Reform" Bill that barely passed both the Senate and House without Republican support, Democrats in Congress said that the new mandate to force us to buy health insurance or pay a penalty was not a tax and our taxes would not rise.
However, according to Robert Pear of the New York Times, the Obama Administration has in court argued that they are allowed to implement this new mandate under the government's "power to lay and collect taxes". The reason they are in court is that twenty states and several private organizations have sued the federal government making the legal claim that this new mandate is unconstitutional and should be struck from the new law. In response the Administration is making the case, that the "power to lay and collect taxes" is more sweeping than the interstate commerce clause, in the scope of power it gives to the Federal Government.
Should the Administration prevail in the courts, not only would everyone be subjected to this new invasive tax, but further invasive taxation would be green lighted in future years. The only way to stop this attack on all of our wallets is to make sure true fiscal conservatives are in charge of both Houses of the Congress and the White House. While some elected Democrats are fiscally conservative, our own Congresswoman Linda Sanchez is not, as she has consistently voted to take more money out of the pockets of everyone, sometimes directly and sometimes through mandates like this new one, and then spend it on activities that have not solved the unemployment and foreclosure problems gripping her district. As such jobs have been killed-off in the district; the only new jobs come either in spite of government or are temporary due to temporary government funding. This is not the way to spur economic recovery in an economy where in some parts of Linda's district the unemployment rate is above 20%, with families losing their homes because they cannot find a job(s) that pays their bills.
Meanwhile the stated July unemployment number in L.A. County is 588,000 people, this does not include the numbers of folks whose unemployment benefits have stopped and have lost hope of finding a job or are scraping by with whatever temporary work they can get. On top of that, newspapers are filled with going out of business auctions where small, medium and large businesses are selling off equipment and inventory after laying-off workers, because these businesses can't pay their bills after paying their taxes and regulatory compliance costs.
Last thought, it is heartbreaking when one considers that the only real growth industries left in California are auction houses and politics, thanks to fiscally irresponsible career politicians like Congresswoman Linda Sanchez.
Matt Kauble
Cerritos
Newly Appointed Fire Chief Jerry Heinzel of Division 4 in Cerritos visits with La Fonda Riggins, Community Liaison with the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Captain Kevin Tobia of Engineer Company 35.
Cerritos concert under the stars popular with Cerritos families and friends
By Jerry Bernstein
It was a beautiful evening at Cerritos families took advantage of it to listen to the music of “The Smokin” Cobras at the Heritage Park Stage. The group played oldies while the audience settled down on beach chairs, spread blankets to enjoy a family picnic. Those who didn’t bring food could buy barbeque tri tip sandwiches right off the grill.
The Gad-a-Bouts offered a varied menu plus home made cake and coffee or soft drinks at a nominal price.
Cerritos deputies were kept busy explaining the importance of fingerprints to the youngsters who lined up to have their fingerprints taken. There was also a “jumper” for the younger set.
Besides enjoying the music, parents were able to wander over to a display of vintage cars, which brought back memories when they were younger.
This Friday, Aug. 12 will feature country music with The Silverados. On Aug. 19 The Swing Cats Big Band will be center stage with Swing/Big Band music. The Hollywood Stones will be featured Aug. 26 in a tribute to The Rolling Stones. The Concert in the Park series will end on Sept. 2 with Upstream who will feature music from the Caribbean.
Woman’s Club president guest speaker at Rotary weekly meeting
Joining Artesia-Cerritos Woman’s Club President Nancy Sousa at the Aug. 9 Rotary Club’s meeting were (l-r) Past Presidents Judy McNatt and Joanne Witt, Sousa and Artesia-Cerritos Rotary President Felix Lopez.
By Larry Caballero
When long-time resident Nancy Sousa was recently installed as President of the Woman’s Club of Artesia-Cerritos, she knew that she would have to speak in front of groups. “I’ve done many things in my life, but public speaking isn’t one of them.” Nevertheless, Sousa was well received by Artesia-Cerritos Rotary President Felix Lopez and its members at its Aug. 9 meeting at the Hometown Buffet in Cerritos.
Joining her were past Woman’s Club Presidents Joanne Witt and Judy McNatt who heard Sousa speak about her joining the club after her retirement. “My husband said that I was working harder than when I had a job…and for no money! However, my pay is in all the ways we are able to help the various organizations and people in our community, as well as meeting the wonderful members of the club.”
Woman’s Club of Artesia-Cerritos is celebrating its 95th birthday this year, having begun in Artesia in 1915, and is part of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, a worldwide organization with member clubs located in many countries.
Locally, the Club awards Cerritos College Scholarships to re-entry women, is a member of the Friends of the Artesia and Cerritos Libraries, and tutors first to sixth grade students with their homework weekly during the school year.
The Club is also a member of the Artesia Historical Society and has assisted in providing buses to transport local school children to the Historical Society for a tour of its museum. The Club has also become involved with the Therapeutic Horse Program at the Buell Horse Stables. The club raises funds so that children are able to join the program. Another project is helping the Friends of the Cerritos Performing Arts Center in their endeavor to invite and bring grade school children to performances at the Center.
“One of our projects dear to my heart,” said Sousa, “is the way we support our soldiers and veterans. We have a group in the Club known as the Happy Hookers who crochet lap robes that are donated to the soldiers at the Long Beach Veterans Hospital.”
The Club is also a member of the Cerritos Committee that supports Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton. “We have several members attending the 1st CEB meetings where we help to fill the ditty bags with lotions, soap, cards, toothbrushes and other essentials that are mailed to the Marines deployed to Afghanistan.”
The Woman’s Club also works closely with the Su Casa Domestic Violence Shelter, Community Family Guidance and the Rio Hondo Temporary Shelter.
“It sounds as though it’s all work and no play,” said Sousa, “but we do have a chairperson who schedules trips to various events, and this week, members have signed up for a philharmonic orchestra performance at the Hollywood Bowl.”
The Woman’s Club of Artesia-Cerritos has a current membership of nearly 100 and among its past members was the late, former First Lady Patricia Nixon. Its brochure reads, “The Club welcomes all women of the community who wish to extend their circle of friends, share special interests, become enriched by the talents of others and make a difference in the community.”
Members meet the seecond Thursday of each month at local parks including Cerritos Park East, and they are already making arts and crafts and Christmas gifts for the annual Christmas Boutique held in December at the Cerritos Senior Center. All the money raised will go to worthy causes that the Club supports. For further information, contact Mabel Low at 562-865-8235.
Hawaiian Gardens hosts 10th Annual Pow Wow
Tribal members prepare for a ceremonial dance in the arena.
By Jerry Bernstein
The 10th Annual Robert Canada Friendship POW Wow was held Aug. 7-8 on the Fedde Middle School baseball field in memory of long time Master of Ceremonies Daniel Tom.
Tribes represented included Apache, Navaho, Cherokee, Kiowa, Piglet, Sioux and Shoshone.
Master of Ceremonies this year was Michael Reifel. Spiritual Advisor was Jim Castillo. Headman Dancer was Ben Wolf, Kiowa. Headlady Dancer was Angela Campos, Kiowa.
In the center of the ceremonial arena was a pit where a ceremonial fire was lit, which burned throughout the two-day event, inviting all who wished, to attend the POW WOW.
Surrounding the arena were tent covers, giving families and friends shade from the sun. Across from them were booths offering Native-American arts and crafts, Indian jewelry and leather goods.
Visitors enjoyed entertainment and tribal dancing throughout the two day POW WOW and a special appearance of Bill Neal accompanied by the steady beat of drums.
The tradition of the Hawaiian Gardens POW WOW was started by the city’s former and late Mayor Robert Canada, who was proud of his Native American Cherokee heritage. The first POW WOW was held in the city’s C. Robert Lee Activity Center and was a Christmas Gathering, toys were given to the children who accompanied their parents to the event.
The POW WOW has been described as an Urban POW WOW as opposed to POW Wow’s held by Native Americans who lived in the plains. There are 300 tribes living in the United States.
Following WW II, many were moved to the west coast where they mixed with other tribes and eventually became urbanized, but the POW WOW tradition carries on.
This year members of the Cerritos lst CEB Marine Battalion Adoption Committee led by Marine Veteran Sgt. Tom Tislow and members of the Committee honored a member of the Navajo Nation Lance Cpl. Alejandro J. Yazzie, 1st Marine Division Expeditionary Force killed in action Feb. 16, 2010 while engaging enemy forces in Helmand Province in Afghanistan. This is followed by a tribal dance honoring warriors who have fallen in battle for their country.
Optimist speaker outlines impact of state deficit on court system
Cerritos Optimist Club President [l-r] Rick Renaker and guest speaker Superior Court Judge Phil Hickok at club’s Aug. 5 breakfast meeting held at the Off Street Café across from Gahr High School. Judge Hickok discussed the $19 billion state deficit and budget crisis its effect on the court system.
By Jerry Bernstein
Citing the current budget crisis confronting California and the continuing national recession, Superior Court Judge Phil Hickok said the Los Angeles Superior Court recognized the gravity and challenge to the court system early in the downturn. He said the court assumes the recession will force Sacramento to continue to impose deep cuts on the courts and its operation.
Speaking to members of the Cerritos Optimist Club he said an unpleasant decision was made to furlough the Los Angeles Superior Court staff, which went into effect with the start of the new fiscal year, July 2009. This meant closing the courts one day a month. He said the decision was made because the court’s rainy day reserve could not meet the fiscal emergency. He said even with previous cuts that had been made, the monetary crisis was turning into a tsunami.
The furloughs have saved $18 million. However, it is also causing the courts to lose case-processing capacity, delays and backlogs are apparent throughout the court system.
Turning to previously approve capital funds, he said the Los Angeles Superior Court has been forced to redirect $25 million of SB 1407 funds and $100 million of planned CCMS funding to meet court operations. He said the only capital project that is ongoing is the construction of a new Long Beach Courthouse.
Judge Hickok also spoke about the changes in the selection of jurors. He said it use to be when a perspective juror was notified he/she would go down to the courthouse and if they were not selected to serve on a jury they would still have to spend the day there waiting to see if they would be picked to serve on another jury. Now when they are notified, they can call in to see if they need to report in. If they are not needed they are done. This so called self-scheduling not only gives perspective juror greater control over the term of their jury service but also cut down on staff-time.
Cerritos Sheriff’s station weekly crime summary- August 2-8, 2010
Part I felony crime investigations last week dropped from twenty-eight the previous week to twenty-six. Residential burglaries increased, robberies and vehicle thefts remained the same, and commercial and vehicle burglaries decreased. Calls for service were up from 300 to 330 last week. The 2010 weekly average in calls for service is now 302.
One robbery was reported after a male suspect entered a home to commit a residential burglary in the 11300 block of Candor Street on Wednesday August 4 at 10:47 a.m. The victim (resident) returned home to find the suspect inside and challenged him. The suspect pulled out a gun that he had just stolen from the bedroom and the victim backed off before the suspect fled.
Six residential burglaries were investigated last week compared to four the previous one. Open/unlocked doors or windows were involved in three cases, a kitchen door was kicked, and a window was pried open. Jewelry, a clock, appliances, a washer and dryer, and cash were stolen. The current 2010 weekly average in residential burglaries is 2.1.
Cerritos Sheriff’s Station has received numerous reports from Volunteers on Patrol that garage doors are being left open at an alarming rate. Many remain open into the night. While ventilation is the primary purpose, the opportunity presented to thieves is significant. If you absolutely must have ventilation from this source, consider only raising the door 4-6 inches. This provides a breeze but protects the contents of your garage from view, thus lowering the chances that items will be stolen.
There was one commercial burglary reported last week, down by one from the previous week. A rear door was pried at a closed business where tools were taken. The 2010 weekly average in commercial burglaries is 2.7.
Vehicle burglaries dropped from fourteen the week before to five for this reporting period. High-volume commercial parking lots were involved in all five. Three of the vehicles last week were SUVs, two victims reported stereo items missing, and a GPS unit was removed in one incident. Other items stolen were an MP3 player, laptop computer, and a cell phone. The new 2010 weekly average in vehicle burglaries is now 7.0.
Think twice about the property you leave in your vehicle, especially if it a pick-up or an SUV. Storing property in the passenger compartment, especially leaving it in plain sight, is exactly what the vehicle burglar will be looking for. Last week’s cases illustrate that items left in a vehicle were of value to the thieves. If it is valuable and important to you, consider leaving it at home or taking it with you when you exit the vehicle.
Vehicle thefts cases remained the same at five, four of which were from high-volume commercial parking lots. Four of the cases involved SUVs, and one an Acura. The 2010 weekly average in vehicle thefts is now 4.7.
A great deal of success in the recovery of stolen vehicles has been demonstrated by tracking devices that can lead law enforcement directly to a specific location. These systems cost a little more and require a monthly fee, but are very effective.
One robbery was reported after a male suspect entered a home to commit a residential burglary in the 11300 block of Candor Street on Wednesday August 4 at 10:47 a.m. The victim (resident) returned home to find the suspect inside and challenged him. The suspect pulled out a gun that he had just stolen from the bedroom and the victim backed off before the suspect fled.
Six residential burglaries were investigated last week compared to four the previous one. Open/unlocked doors or windows were involved in three cases, a kitchen door was kicked, and a window was pried open. Jewelry, a clock, appliances, a washer and dryer, and cash were stolen. The current 2010 weekly average in residential burglaries is 2.1.
Cerritos Sheriff’s Station has received numerous reports from Volunteers on Patrol that garage doors are being left open at an alarming rate. Many remain open into the night. While ventilation is the primary purpose, the opportunity presented to thieves is significant. If you absolutely must have ventilation from this source, consider only raising the door 4-6 inches. This provides a breeze but protects the contents of your garage from view, thus lowering the chances that items will be stolen.
There was one commercial burglary reported last week, down by one from the previous week. A rear door was pried at a closed business where tools were taken. The 2010 weekly average in commercial burglaries is 2.7.
Vehicle burglaries dropped from fourteen the week before to five for this reporting period. High-volume commercial parking lots were involved in all five. Three of the vehicles last week were SUVs, two victims reported stereo items missing, and a GPS unit was removed in one incident. Other items stolen were an MP3 player, laptop computer, and a cell phone. The new 2010 weekly average in vehicle burglaries is now 7.0.
Think twice about the property you leave in your vehicle, especially if it a pick-up or an SUV. Storing property in the passenger compartment, especially leaving it in plain sight, is exactly what the vehicle burglar will be looking for. Last week’s cases illustrate that items left in a vehicle were of value to the thieves. If it is valuable and important to you, consider leaving it at home or taking it with you when you exit the vehicle.
Vehicle thefts cases remained the same at five, four of which were from high-volume commercial parking lots. Four of the cases involved SUVs, and one an Acura. The 2010 weekly average in vehicle thefts is now 4.7.
A great deal of success in the recovery of stolen vehicles has been demonstrated by tracking devices that can lead law enforcement directly to a specific location. These systems cost a little more and require a monthly fee, but are very effective.
Free class: Staging secrets to sell your house for more money and in a shorter time
Join Diana Needham, an Accredited Staging Professional (ASP) and Realtor with over 17 years of experience, with Prudential California Realty, on Thursday, August 19 at 1 pm to 2 pm to learn many staging and decorating secrets so you can become a successful home seller. National statistics from the Accredited Staging Professional (ASP) organization indicate that a staged home sells for a higher price and sells in less time than an unstaged home.
The free “Staging Secrets” class is available through the Cerritos Senior Center to persons, age 50 and over, with no restriction on City of residence. Call the Senior Center at (562) 916-8550 for information on registering. Call Diana Needham, class instructor, for more information on the class, at (562) 926-4882. The class will be repeated on November 18.
Ms. Needham has been staging homes for over 10 years as a free service to her seller clients. “Diana provides an excellent service to her sellers. I estimate that only 5% of real estate agents provide this kind of advanced staging assistance”, said Bruce Mulhearn, owner of twenty Prudential California Realty offices. “We consider her one of our most effective staging experts. Once a home is staged, Ms. Needham provides a free virtual tour and places it on the multiple listing service (MLS) and numerous buyer search sites.
The Corporate headquarters of Mr. Mulhearn’s Prudential California organization is located in Cerritos.
The free “Staging Secrets” class is available through the Cerritos Senior Center to persons, age 50 and over, with no restriction on City of residence. Call the Senior Center at (562) 916-8550 for information on registering. Call Diana Needham, class instructor, for more information on the class, at (562) 926-4882. The class will be repeated on November 18.
Ms. Needham has been staging homes for over 10 years as a free service to her seller clients. “Diana provides an excellent service to her sellers. I estimate that only 5% of real estate agents provide this kind of advanced staging assistance”, said Bruce Mulhearn, owner of twenty Prudential California Realty offices. “We consider her one of our most effective staging experts. Once a home is staged, Ms. Needham provides a free virtual tour and places it on the multiple listing service (MLS) and numerous buyer search sites.
The Corporate headquarters of Mr. Mulhearn’s Prudential California organization is located in Cerritos.
Full freeway closures coming to I-710
8 Weekends: August 13 to October 11, 2010
Long Beach Freeway (I-710) LONG LIFE PAVEMENT REHABILITATION from just south of Firestone Boulevard to the Glenn Anderson Freeway (I-105)
FULL FREEWAY CLOSURES will occur twice during each weekend: Friday at 11:45 p.m. until Saturday at 6 a.m.
Sunday at 11 p.m. until Monday at 5 a.m.
August 13-16, September 10-13, October 1-4, August 20-23, September 17-20, October 8-11, August 27-30 September 24-27
No construction will occur during the Labor Day Weekend of September 3-6.
The extended weekend closures begin on Friday night (midnight) with a six-hour (12:01-6 a.m) FULL FREEWAY CLOSURE to install moveable median barriers. Then, on Sunday at 11 p.m., there is another FULL FREEWAY CLOSURE to remove the temporary moveable median barrier in time for the Monday morning commute.
CLOSED On-ramps to northbound I-710: Eastbound & westbound on-ramps to Rosecrans Avenue and Imperial Highway. CLOSED On-ramps to southbound I-710: Eastbound & westbound on-ramps from Florence Avenue, Firestone Boulevard and Imperial Hwy. CLOSED Freeway Connectors: Eastbound and westbound I-105 to northbound I-710
RESTRICTIONS: Speed reduced to 45mph. No oversized loads permitted due to narrow lanes.
DELAYS AND DETOURS: Motorists can expect delays and are advised to use alternate routes and marked street detours. Trucks are advised to use Garfield Avenue.
PROJECT DETAILS: The work is part of the I-710 Long Life Pavement Rehabilitation Project to rehabilitate aging pavement from I-405 to I-5 and provide the roadway with several decades of service life, improved pavement performance and a smoother ride for the traveling public.
Long Beach Freeway (I-710) LONG LIFE PAVEMENT REHABILITATION from just south of Firestone Boulevard to the Glenn Anderson Freeway (I-105)
FULL FREEWAY CLOSURES will occur twice during each weekend: Friday at 11:45 p.m. until Saturday at 6 a.m.
Sunday at 11 p.m. until Monday at 5 a.m.
August 13-16, September 10-13, October 1-4, August 20-23, September 17-20, October 8-11, August 27-30 September 24-27
No construction will occur during the Labor Day Weekend of September 3-6.
The extended weekend closures begin on Friday night (midnight) with a six-hour (12:01-6 a.m) FULL FREEWAY CLOSURE to install moveable median barriers. Then, on Sunday at 11 p.m., there is another FULL FREEWAY CLOSURE to remove the temporary moveable median barrier in time for the Monday morning commute.
CLOSED On-ramps to northbound I-710: Eastbound & westbound on-ramps to Rosecrans Avenue and Imperial Highway. CLOSED On-ramps to southbound I-710: Eastbound & westbound on-ramps from Florence Avenue, Firestone Boulevard and Imperial Hwy. CLOSED Freeway Connectors: Eastbound and westbound I-105 to northbound I-710
RESTRICTIONS: Speed reduced to 45mph. No oversized loads permitted due to narrow lanes.
DELAYS AND DETOURS: Motorists can expect delays and are advised to use alternate routes and marked street detours. Trucks are advised to use Garfield Avenue.
PROJECT DETAILS: The work is part of the I-710 Long Life Pavement Rehabilitation Project to rehabilitate aging pavement from I-405 to I-5 and provide the roadway with several decades of service life, improved pavement performance and a smoother ride for the traveling public.
Dr. Urban on Today’s Dentistry
Dentists want to preserve, maintain, and if necessary restore teeth to full function and health. Therefore we preach prevention, encourage daily brushing and flossing, and recommend fillings and crowns to repair decayed teeth. Also, we inform people of harmful habits that lead to unnecessary dental problems. One of these is oral piercing.
I have not seen mature people (over thirty- something) succumb to this desire to poke a hole in their tongue and place a metal stud to show off. However, I have seen our teens and twenty year olds carry their body piercing habits onto the lips and into the mouth.
Let me tell you about the good things that happen when this is done. Nothing!
Now let me tell you about some of the adverse events that have occurred as a result of oral piercing. There have been several reports of severe infections and death as a result of bacterial infections. In fact a young British woman died of blood poisoning and pneumonia within 48 hours of tongue piercing this year. Although this is rare it can happen and would never have occurred if she declined to have the procedure.
Also some young people have experienced tooth movement as a result of pressing the metal ball of the tongue bar against the front teeth. Spaces and gaps are now appearing between the two front teeth. Teeth move when constant light forces are exerted against them. This principle is the basis for orthodontics. When random forces are applied random unpredictable events occur.
In my practice I have witnessed fractured teeth as a result of the metal banging against teeth. This has resulted in some expensive restorative work.-work that would have been unnecessary without piercing and tongue bars.
Lastly, I have observed severe recession of the gums around the lower front teeth. Tongue bars press against the gums on the back of the front teeth and the gums shrink away leaving bare root surfaces. Consequently these teeth become very sensitive and eventually get loose. Lip plugs bang against the front of the teeth causing recession on the front side. A lot of these defects cannot be repaired and will develop into major problems later on in life. Again these self induced dilemmas would never have occurred without piercing.
The ADA does not recommend piercing “because of its potential for numerous negative sequelae”. I am not aware of any dentist who approves of this trend. I can only encourage everyone to spread the word. For answers to your dental questions, contact
Douglas Urban, D.D.S., Cerritos, CA 90703. 562 924-1523.
www.DrDouglasUrban.com
I have not seen mature people (over thirty- something) succumb to this desire to poke a hole in their tongue and place a metal stud to show off. However, I have seen our teens and twenty year olds carry their body piercing habits onto the lips and into the mouth.
Let me tell you about the good things that happen when this is done. Nothing!
Now let me tell you about some of the adverse events that have occurred as a result of oral piercing. There have been several reports of severe infections and death as a result of bacterial infections. In fact a young British woman died of blood poisoning and pneumonia within 48 hours of tongue piercing this year. Although this is rare it can happen and would never have occurred if she declined to have the procedure.
Also some young people have experienced tooth movement as a result of pressing the metal ball of the tongue bar against the front teeth. Spaces and gaps are now appearing between the two front teeth. Teeth move when constant light forces are exerted against them. This principle is the basis for orthodontics. When random forces are applied random unpredictable events occur.
In my practice I have witnessed fractured teeth as a result of the metal banging against teeth. This has resulted in some expensive restorative work.-work that would have been unnecessary without piercing and tongue bars.
Lastly, I have observed severe recession of the gums around the lower front teeth. Tongue bars press against the gums on the back of the front teeth and the gums shrink away leaving bare root surfaces. Consequently these teeth become very sensitive and eventually get loose. Lip plugs bang against the front of the teeth causing recession on the front side. A lot of these defects cannot be repaired and will develop into major problems later on in life. Again these self induced dilemmas would never have occurred without piercing.
The ADA does not recommend piercing “because of its potential for numerous negative sequelae”. I am not aware of any dentist who approves of this trend. I can only encourage everyone to spread the word. For answers to your dental questions, contact
Douglas Urban, D.D.S., Cerritos, CA 90703. 562 924-1523.
www.DrDouglasUrban.com
Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital helping area parents by providing vaccinations for whooping cough (pertussis)
Because of an increasing number of whooping cough (pertussis) cases reported in Los Angeles County, Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital (PIH) and its affiliated physicians are encouraging area residents to protect themselves and their loved ones from this highly contagious disease.
PIH, at the recommendation of its medical staff, has been proactive regarding the rise in whooping cough cases. In fact, they were ahead of the problem and instituted a plan to offer pertussis vaccine to every post-partum mother who delivers at PIH according to Brent Gray, MD, former PIH Chief of Staff and a Bright Health Physicians obstetrician/gynecologist. “We have been very aware of the rise in the incidence of whooping cough and have taken steps to prevent pertussis in our community.” In addition to working with the hospital to institute the vaccine program for new mothers, Dr. Gray has also sent out a communication to all PIH medical staff members about the importance of vaccinating all household members who have a newborn at home.
Pertussis is a vaccine-preventable disease spread by the coughing of an infected individual. Typical symptoms in young children include intense coughing accompanied by a whooping sound, and post-cough vomiting. Complications can include pneumonia and seizures. Among older children and adults, the primary symptom may be a cough that often lasts for several weeks or longer. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have whooping cough, contact your doctor right away.
Infants under one year are at the highest risk for developing the most severe and possibly even fatal complications. A recent study showed that 41 percent of infants with whooping cough got it from a sibling, 38 percent got it from their mother and 17 percent from their father. Adults who are immunized are not at risk for being infected and therefore won’t infect their children.
For additional information about whooping cough and pertussis vaccinations please call the PIH Labor & Delivery Department at 562.698.0811 Ext. 17500 or the Pediatrics Department at 562.698.0811 Ext. 17561.
PIH, at the recommendation of its medical staff, has been proactive regarding the rise in whooping cough cases. In fact, they were ahead of the problem and instituted a plan to offer pertussis vaccine to every post-partum mother who delivers at PIH according to Brent Gray, MD, former PIH Chief of Staff and a Bright Health Physicians obstetrician/gynecologist. “We have been very aware of the rise in the incidence of whooping cough and have taken steps to prevent pertussis in our community.” In addition to working with the hospital to institute the vaccine program for new mothers, Dr. Gray has also sent out a communication to all PIH medical staff members about the importance of vaccinating all household members who have a newborn at home.
Pertussis is a vaccine-preventable disease spread by the coughing of an infected individual. Typical symptoms in young children include intense coughing accompanied by a whooping sound, and post-cough vomiting. Complications can include pneumonia and seizures. Among older children and adults, the primary symptom may be a cough that often lasts for several weeks or longer. If you suspect that you or a loved one may have whooping cough, contact your doctor right away.
Infants under one year are at the highest risk for developing the most severe and possibly even fatal complications. A recent study showed that 41 percent of infants with whooping cough got it from a sibling, 38 percent got it from their mother and 17 percent from their father. Adults who are immunized are not at risk for being infected and therefore won’t infect their children.
For additional information about whooping cough and pertussis vaccinations please call the PIH Labor & Delivery Department at 562.698.0811 Ext. 17500 or the Pediatrics Department at 562.698.0811 Ext. 17561.
80,000 California seniors receiving $250 prescription drug rebate checks thanks to health care reform
From LCCN news service
Congressman John Garamendi (D-Walnut Creek, CA), a former two-term California Insurance Commissioner, is happy to report that the third round of prescription drug Medicare Part D “donut hole” checks have gone out to nearly 80,000 California seniors. Under the Affordable Care Act, seniors whose prescription drug costs are so high that they fall in the ‘donut hole’ coverage gap in 2010 are receiving this one-time tax-free $250 rebate check. Experts estimate that more than a quarter of seniors will hit the ‘donut hole’ this year.
“When Democrats in Congress voted for health care reform earlier this year, we did so with the confidence that we were improving health care access for millions of seniors,” Congressman Garamendi said. “These $250 rebates, along with the free preventative and primary care available to seniors next year, are early steps in the process. In a few years, we will completely close the donut hole and continue to improve coverage for our seniors.”
These checks are being mailed out every few weeks, as more seniors hit the ‘donut hole.’ In June, more than 80,000 seniors received the rebate check; in July, more than 300,000 received the check; and now in early August, more than 375,000 are receiving it. In California, 9,985 seniors received the rebate in June; 31,615 seniors received it in July; and now 35,370 are receiving it in early August.
The checks are just the first benefit from health reform for seniors in the Medicare Prescription Drug program. Beginning in January 2011, seniors in the donut hole will receive a 50% discount on brand name drugs. By 2020, the donut hole will be completely closed.
Congressional Republicans created the donut hole – leaving thousands of seniors to choose between buying the prescriptions they need and putting food on the table – and now they refuse to help close it.
“Opportunistic Republican politicians have been trying to scare our seniors into opposing reforms that actually improve their health coverage,” Garamendi added. “If the Republicans had their way, millions of seniors would have no hope of escaping the prescription drug donut hole; Medicare would be decimated; Social Security would be privatized; and free preventative care would be a pipe dream. Our seniors deserve better than what Congressional Republicans openly envision for America.”
Medicare recipients don’t have to do anything to get the $250 check – once their drug costs for the year hit $2,830 the one-time check will be issued automatically, but seniors should be on the lookout for fraud.
Making prescription drugs more affordable for seniors is only one of the many benefits for seniors included in the Affordable Care Act. Under the new law, other benefits for seniors include:
Beginning on January 1, 2011, provides that seniors will receive free preventive care services like mammograms and certain colon cancer tests and a free annual physical.
· Strengthens Medicare by extending its solvency by an additional 12 years, from 2017 to 2029.
· Includes Medicare efficiencies, so that experts estimate that seniors can expect to save on average almost $200 per year in premiums, by 2018, compared to what they would have paid without the new law.
· Continues to reduce waste, fraud and abuse in Medicare.
· Improves care by helping doctors communicate and coordinate.
· Expands home and community-based services to keep seniors in their home, instead of in nursing homes.
Congressman John Garamendi (D-Walnut Creek, CA), a former two-term California Insurance Commissioner, is happy to report that the third round of prescription drug Medicare Part D “donut hole” checks have gone out to nearly 80,000 California seniors. Under the Affordable Care Act, seniors whose prescription drug costs are so high that they fall in the ‘donut hole’ coverage gap in 2010 are receiving this one-time tax-free $250 rebate check. Experts estimate that more than a quarter of seniors will hit the ‘donut hole’ this year.
“When Democrats in Congress voted for health care reform earlier this year, we did so with the confidence that we were improving health care access for millions of seniors,” Congressman Garamendi said. “These $250 rebates, along with the free preventative and primary care available to seniors next year, are early steps in the process. In a few years, we will completely close the donut hole and continue to improve coverage for our seniors.”
These checks are being mailed out every few weeks, as more seniors hit the ‘donut hole.’ In June, more than 80,000 seniors received the rebate check; in July, more than 300,000 received the check; and now in early August, more than 375,000 are receiving it. In California, 9,985 seniors received the rebate in June; 31,615 seniors received it in July; and now 35,370 are receiving it in early August.
The checks are just the first benefit from health reform for seniors in the Medicare Prescription Drug program. Beginning in January 2011, seniors in the donut hole will receive a 50% discount on brand name drugs. By 2020, the donut hole will be completely closed.
Congressional Republicans created the donut hole – leaving thousands of seniors to choose between buying the prescriptions they need and putting food on the table – and now they refuse to help close it.
“Opportunistic Republican politicians have been trying to scare our seniors into opposing reforms that actually improve their health coverage,” Garamendi added. “If the Republicans had their way, millions of seniors would have no hope of escaping the prescription drug donut hole; Medicare would be decimated; Social Security would be privatized; and free preventative care would be a pipe dream. Our seniors deserve better than what Congressional Republicans openly envision for America.”
Medicare recipients don’t have to do anything to get the $250 check – once their drug costs for the year hit $2,830 the one-time check will be issued automatically, but seniors should be on the lookout for fraud.
Making prescription drugs more affordable for seniors is only one of the many benefits for seniors included in the Affordable Care Act. Under the new law, other benefits for seniors include:
Beginning on January 1, 2011, provides that seniors will receive free preventive care services like mammograms and certain colon cancer tests and a free annual physical.
· Strengthens Medicare by extending its solvency by an additional 12 years, from 2017 to 2029.
· Includes Medicare efficiencies, so that experts estimate that seniors can expect to save on average almost $200 per year in premiums, by 2018, compared to what they would have paid without the new law.
· Continues to reduce waste, fraud and abuse in Medicare.
· Improves care by helping doctors communicate and coordinate.
· Expands home and community-based services to keep seniors in their home, instead of in nursing homes.
2010 FOOTBALL PREVIEWS- Artesia, Cerritos look to move higher in Suburban League standings
By Loren Kopff
ARTESIA PIONEERS
1-9 overall last season, 1-5 in the Suburban League, tied for fifth place
24-29 overall last five seasons
Head coach: Joe Veach (first full season, 1-6)
Lose 13 seniors of 33 from 2009 opening day roster
2010 schedule
Sept. 3 Edison (13-1 last season)
Sept. 10 Millikan (6-5)
Sept. 17 BYE
Sept. 24 @ Gahr (6-5)
Oct. 1 La Mirada (13-1)
Oct. 8 @ Westminster (7-5)
Oct. 15 @ Bellflower (3-8)
Oct. 22 @ Cerritos (1-9)
Oct. 29 John Glenn (5-5)
Nov. 5 @ Mayfair (4-7)
Nov. 12 Norwalk (11-2)
A season after winning seven games and finishing in a tie for second place in the Suburban League, the Pioneers stumbled amidst a coaching change three weeks into the season and a small team that saw as many as 33 players on the roster. When it was all said and done, Artesia had its worst season since 2003. During the offseason, the interim tag was removed from Joe Veach’s title and he resumes the full head coaching duties as the Pioneers will once again field a small team.
“I think one thing that we took away from last season was that we needed to work harder in preseason and in the offseason,” Veach said. “That’s something this year that we’re going to definitely be stronger than we were a year ago. We’ll be in better shape than we were a year ago. We will have gone through a lot more adversity football wise going into this season.”
OFFENSE
It took a while for the Pioneers to get into the end zone on a regular basis last season, having scored 33 points through their first five games but 132 in the final half of the campaign. During that stretch, Artesia posted its lone victory, a 44-40 triumph over John Glenn and took Suburban League power Mayfair to overtime after limiting the Monsoons to just eight second half points.
But the offense this season will be young and untested, beginning with sophomore quarterback Francisco Galan.
“As a freshman, he didn’t run anything like what our offense is,” Veach said. “He kind of had to start from scratch. We had to teach him everything that we do in the run game and everything we do in the pass game. I think he’s come a long way. I think he’s a real talented kid; it’s just a matter of getting him more comfortable.”
The rushing duties will be handled by senior Nathan Casanova, a transfer from Mayfair and sophomore Brian Stewart. Last season, the Pioneers rushed for just over 700 yards and didn’t have a player gain more than 277 yards. Seniors Trevon Frazier and Deveon Isreal will be the main receivers with Isreal having some varsity experience.
If there is one strength on the offensive side, it will be on the line where seniors Joshua Garcia, Lester Levy, Troy Sexton and possibly Asad Niazi all return. Sophomore Juan Ramos will most likely play left tackle with Sexton right next to him. Garcia is the center while Levy moves from right guard to right tackle, making room for junior Alex Farrell.
“Our numbers are pretty low but the line…those are three guys that we expect to be able to carry us,” Veach said of his main three returning linemen.
DEFENSE
For the Pioneers to be more competitive, they cannot give up an average of close to 40 points a game as was the case last season. Garcia and possibly Niazi will be the leading candidates on the line as Levy and Sexton will both move to become inside linebackers. The rest of the linebacking crew will consist of Isreal, senior Sean Valenzuela and juniors Michael Clayton and Darius Pyle. Isreal had 19 tackles last season and of the returning players, he is the leading tackler. The leading secondary personnel will be Frazier, senior Arturo Gonzales and junior Geoffrey Ricketts. Levy, Garcia and Sexton accounted for all of the sacks in 2009.
“We would like to have 50-60 guys out there,” Veach said. “Who wouldn’t? It’s more work for us but it also makes our job easier. We’ve dealt with small numbers before. In 2008, we dressed 24 guys for a couple of games and went 7-3, second in league and went to the playoffs.”
SCHEDULE
If the young Pioneers are going to make a statement this season, win some games and possibly reach the playoffs, then they will have definitely earned it. Eight of their 10 opponents reached the playoffs last season including the first six games. The first test will be against the runner-ups from the PAC-5 Division. La Mirada is not only the defending Suburban League champion, but also the defending Southern Division champions. The Suburban League moves to the Southeast Division where it will be joined by the Del Rio, Hacienda and Pacific Leagues. Three of those four leagues will automatically send four teams to the playoffs, meaning it’s possible a fifth Suburban League team can make the playoffs.
The last time Artesia visited Gahr, it put up 50 points and upset the Gladiators by 15. Artesia has lost at least 12 straight games to Mayfair and before last season’s loss to Cerritos, it had defeated the Dons five straight games. The Nov. 12 game against Norwalk may have to be moved due to a district-wide furlough day.
“We’re going to have a tough preseason,” Veach said. “We’re going to be tested in the non league games. When we get into league, it will be just like every other year. La Mirada is going to be tough, Mayfair is going to be tough and Norwalk is going to be tough. Bellflower is looking good and Cerritos is getting better. I don’t know what to expect from John Glenn with the coaching change. Making the playoffs is our goal. There are games out there I think we can win.”
CERRITOS DONS
1-9 overall last season, 1-5 in the Suburban League, tied for fifth place
7-43 overall last five seasons
Head coach: Chad Reed (second season, 1-9)
Lose nine seniors of 29 from 2009 opening day roster
2010 schedule
Sept. 3 Gabrielino (3-7 last season)
Sept. 10 BYE
Sept. 17 @ Gahr (6-5)
Sept. 23 Rancho Alamitos (6-5)
Oct. 1 @ Pioneer (3-7)
Oct. 8 @ Mayfair (4-7)
Oct. 15 La Mirada (13-1)
Oct. 22 Artesia (1-9)
Oct. 29 @ Norwalk (11-2)
Nov. 5 Bellflower (3-8)
Nov. 12 @ John Glenn (5-5)
It wasn’t the return that head coach Chad Reed had hope for in 2009. Reed, who was part of the coaching staff in the late 1990s when the Dons went to the playoffs, fielded a very small team. Cerritos has not had a winning season since 2003 and has lost 11 straight home games. Despite the woes, Reed believes the program is making baby steps.
“I think the kids reaped the shots,” Reed said of last season. “I could notice that even from the Beckman game (Sept. 3, 2009). We’re in the game late and the kids are real happy even though we’re losing. We were just happy being in some close games for the first time in quite some time.”
He was referring to the fact that Cerritos trailed Beckman 21-0 at the half but scored all 13 of its points in the third quarter to make it a game. This season, the team will once again be young as there will be a projected 12 seniors on the squad. Despite winning just one game for the second time in three seasons, Reed did see an improvement from the day he took over the head coaching duties.
“The kids’ overall commitment to football,” Reed said of one improvement. “I think it was way down on their priority chain. But just the commitment now…I have to tell myself we’re still far from where I want it to be but where we were from this point last year to now is miles apart.”
OFFENSE
Junior Austin Young, who was the signal caller most of last season, vacates that position to be a tight end. The quarterback job belongs to senior Jimmy Guevara with crafty junior Marquis Moss as his backup. Cerritos quarterbacks combined to throw only two touchdown passes last season. With that said, the brunt of the offense was from the ground where the graduated Derek Jones and senior Aaron Francis kept the Dons from being completely shut down. Francis scored six rushing touchdowns and returned another two to the house. He will be joined in the backfield by junior Kevin Cook.
Cerritos figures to be just as fast, if not, faster with its receiving corps which begins with Moss and junior Montel Hawkins as inside slot receivers. Juniors Darrion Gordon, Paul Ndawula and Kyle Williams will be on the outside. All five receivers were on varsity last season.
The line should be able to protect Guevara with senior Kevin Vaca in the middle. On the left side will be senior tackle Danny Gutierrez, a varsity newcomer and senior guard Alejandro Sosaysilva. On the right side will be junior guards Paul Luevano and Michael Hannum, among others, and newcomer senior tackle Austin Khym. It was the performance of the line that kept Cerritos from being blanked in more than just one game.
“That’s a testament to last year’s offensive line and I do believe this year’s offensive line needs to be, and is, the strength of our football team,” Reed said. “We need to keep control of the ball, shorten the games and play a little defense. We’re going to win or lose with our offensive line.”
DEFENSE
This has been a major concern for the Dons in the past six seasons. Cerritos yielded at least 20 points in all 10 games and over 40 points six times.
“Defense has been our big point of emphasis,” Reed said. “We were horrible. Part of that is because they never had to really play a real structured style of defense. This year we’ve added some things and done some things and the kids are buying into it.”
Vaca is the lone returning lineman and will be joined by juniors Tommy Lemusu, Branden Wilson and Anthony Zelada, the latter two with varsity experience. The secondary will be anchored by Gordon, Ndawula and Williams while Luevano and senior Andy Tang will be the main inside linebackers while Cook and senior Matt Villalba will be on the outside.
“We’re starting to get to the point where the kids have basic concepts and understanding,” Reed said. “In my opinion, we’re Cerritos; we’re not as talented as Gahr or Artesia who can run more simplified schemes, and do just because they’re more athletic.”
SCHEDULE
Just like Artesia’s upcoming season, nothing will come easy for the Dons if they want to add to their victory total of the past few seasons. Reed says Gabrielino, the week zero opponent, runs the option while Gahr runs a spread offense. Since 2004, the Dons have scored just 13 points against their city rivals from the north side of town. Two of the first four opponents failed to reach the playoffs last season while the meeting with Rancho Alamitos will be the fourth since 2005. Cerritos won the first two of those games.
Over the past 12 seasons, Cerritos has a winning record against one league team-John Glenn (8-4). The Dons homecoming game will be against Artesia, one of two league foes in the past 12 seasons they have yet to host in their homecoming game; La Mirada is the other.
“I like our non-league schedule,” Reed said. “To me the only purpose of preseason football is to get us as absolutely ready as possible for Suburban League. Whether we go 4-0 or 0-4 doesn’t matter to me. My question at the end of that will be are we ready for Suburban League play? Our goal every season is to try to make the playoffs.”
ARTESIA PIONEERS
1-9 overall last season, 1-5 in the Suburban League, tied for fifth place
24-29 overall last five seasons
Head coach: Joe Veach (first full season, 1-6)
Lose 13 seniors of 33 from 2009 opening day roster
2010 schedule
Sept. 3 Edison (13-1 last season)
Sept. 10 Millikan (6-5)
Sept. 17 BYE
Sept. 24 @ Gahr (6-5)
Oct. 1 La Mirada (13-1)
Oct. 8 @ Westminster (7-5)
Oct. 15 @ Bellflower (3-8)
Oct. 22 @ Cerritos (1-9)
Oct. 29 John Glenn (5-5)
Nov. 5 @ Mayfair (4-7)
Nov. 12 Norwalk (11-2)
A season after winning seven games and finishing in a tie for second place in the Suburban League, the Pioneers stumbled amidst a coaching change three weeks into the season and a small team that saw as many as 33 players on the roster. When it was all said and done, Artesia had its worst season since 2003. During the offseason, the interim tag was removed from Joe Veach’s title and he resumes the full head coaching duties as the Pioneers will once again field a small team.
“I think one thing that we took away from last season was that we needed to work harder in preseason and in the offseason,” Veach said. “That’s something this year that we’re going to definitely be stronger than we were a year ago. We’ll be in better shape than we were a year ago. We will have gone through a lot more adversity football wise going into this season.”
OFFENSE
It took a while for the Pioneers to get into the end zone on a regular basis last season, having scored 33 points through their first five games but 132 in the final half of the campaign. During that stretch, Artesia posted its lone victory, a 44-40 triumph over John Glenn and took Suburban League power Mayfair to overtime after limiting the Monsoons to just eight second half points.
But the offense this season will be young and untested, beginning with sophomore quarterback Francisco Galan.
“As a freshman, he didn’t run anything like what our offense is,” Veach said. “He kind of had to start from scratch. We had to teach him everything that we do in the run game and everything we do in the pass game. I think he’s come a long way. I think he’s a real talented kid; it’s just a matter of getting him more comfortable.”
The rushing duties will be handled by senior Nathan Casanova, a transfer from Mayfair and sophomore Brian Stewart. Last season, the Pioneers rushed for just over 700 yards and didn’t have a player gain more than 277 yards. Seniors Trevon Frazier and Deveon Isreal will be the main receivers with Isreal having some varsity experience.
If there is one strength on the offensive side, it will be on the line where seniors Joshua Garcia, Lester Levy, Troy Sexton and possibly Asad Niazi all return. Sophomore Juan Ramos will most likely play left tackle with Sexton right next to him. Garcia is the center while Levy moves from right guard to right tackle, making room for junior Alex Farrell.
“Our numbers are pretty low but the line…those are three guys that we expect to be able to carry us,” Veach said of his main three returning linemen.
DEFENSE
For the Pioneers to be more competitive, they cannot give up an average of close to 40 points a game as was the case last season. Garcia and possibly Niazi will be the leading candidates on the line as Levy and Sexton will both move to become inside linebackers. The rest of the linebacking crew will consist of Isreal, senior Sean Valenzuela and juniors Michael Clayton and Darius Pyle. Isreal had 19 tackles last season and of the returning players, he is the leading tackler. The leading secondary personnel will be Frazier, senior Arturo Gonzales and junior Geoffrey Ricketts. Levy, Garcia and Sexton accounted for all of the sacks in 2009.
“We would like to have 50-60 guys out there,” Veach said. “Who wouldn’t? It’s more work for us but it also makes our job easier. We’ve dealt with small numbers before. In 2008, we dressed 24 guys for a couple of games and went 7-3, second in league and went to the playoffs.”
SCHEDULE
If the young Pioneers are going to make a statement this season, win some games and possibly reach the playoffs, then they will have definitely earned it. Eight of their 10 opponents reached the playoffs last season including the first six games. The first test will be against the runner-ups from the PAC-5 Division. La Mirada is not only the defending Suburban League champion, but also the defending Southern Division champions. The Suburban League moves to the Southeast Division where it will be joined by the Del Rio, Hacienda and Pacific Leagues. Three of those four leagues will automatically send four teams to the playoffs, meaning it’s possible a fifth Suburban League team can make the playoffs.
The last time Artesia visited Gahr, it put up 50 points and upset the Gladiators by 15. Artesia has lost at least 12 straight games to Mayfair and before last season’s loss to Cerritos, it had defeated the Dons five straight games. The Nov. 12 game against Norwalk may have to be moved due to a district-wide furlough day.
“We’re going to have a tough preseason,” Veach said. “We’re going to be tested in the non league games. When we get into league, it will be just like every other year. La Mirada is going to be tough, Mayfair is going to be tough and Norwalk is going to be tough. Bellflower is looking good and Cerritos is getting better. I don’t know what to expect from John Glenn with the coaching change. Making the playoffs is our goal. There are games out there I think we can win.”
CERRITOS DONS
1-9 overall last season, 1-5 in the Suburban League, tied for fifth place
7-43 overall last five seasons
Head coach: Chad Reed (second season, 1-9)
Lose nine seniors of 29 from 2009 opening day roster
2010 schedule
Sept. 3 Gabrielino (3-7 last season)
Sept. 10 BYE
Sept. 17 @ Gahr (6-5)
Sept. 23 Rancho Alamitos (6-5)
Oct. 1 @ Pioneer (3-7)
Oct. 8 @ Mayfair (4-7)
Oct. 15 La Mirada (13-1)
Oct. 22 Artesia (1-9)
Oct. 29 @ Norwalk (11-2)
Nov. 5 Bellflower (3-8)
Nov. 12 @ John Glenn (5-5)
It wasn’t the return that head coach Chad Reed had hope for in 2009. Reed, who was part of the coaching staff in the late 1990s when the Dons went to the playoffs, fielded a very small team. Cerritos has not had a winning season since 2003 and has lost 11 straight home games. Despite the woes, Reed believes the program is making baby steps.
“I think the kids reaped the shots,” Reed said of last season. “I could notice that even from the Beckman game (Sept. 3, 2009). We’re in the game late and the kids are real happy even though we’re losing. We were just happy being in some close games for the first time in quite some time.”
He was referring to the fact that Cerritos trailed Beckman 21-0 at the half but scored all 13 of its points in the third quarter to make it a game. This season, the team will once again be young as there will be a projected 12 seniors on the squad. Despite winning just one game for the second time in three seasons, Reed did see an improvement from the day he took over the head coaching duties.
“The kids’ overall commitment to football,” Reed said of one improvement. “I think it was way down on their priority chain. But just the commitment now…I have to tell myself we’re still far from where I want it to be but where we were from this point last year to now is miles apart.”
OFFENSE
Junior Austin Young, who was the signal caller most of last season, vacates that position to be a tight end. The quarterback job belongs to senior Jimmy Guevara with crafty junior Marquis Moss as his backup. Cerritos quarterbacks combined to throw only two touchdown passes last season. With that said, the brunt of the offense was from the ground where the graduated Derek Jones and senior Aaron Francis kept the Dons from being completely shut down. Francis scored six rushing touchdowns and returned another two to the house. He will be joined in the backfield by junior Kevin Cook.
Cerritos figures to be just as fast, if not, faster with its receiving corps which begins with Moss and junior Montel Hawkins as inside slot receivers. Juniors Darrion Gordon, Paul Ndawula and Kyle Williams will be on the outside. All five receivers were on varsity last season.
The line should be able to protect Guevara with senior Kevin Vaca in the middle. On the left side will be senior tackle Danny Gutierrez, a varsity newcomer and senior guard Alejandro Sosaysilva. On the right side will be junior guards Paul Luevano and Michael Hannum, among others, and newcomer senior tackle Austin Khym. It was the performance of the line that kept Cerritos from being blanked in more than just one game.
“That’s a testament to last year’s offensive line and I do believe this year’s offensive line needs to be, and is, the strength of our football team,” Reed said. “We need to keep control of the ball, shorten the games and play a little defense. We’re going to win or lose with our offensive line.”
DEFENSE
This has been a major concern for the Dons in the past six seasons. Cerritos yielded at least 20 points in all 10 games and over 40 points six times.
“Defense has been our big point of emphasis,” Reed said. “We were horrible. Part of that is because they never had to really play a real structured style of defense. This year we’ve added some things and done some things and the kids are buying into it.”
Vaca is the lone returning lineman and will be joined by juniors Tommy Lemusu, Branden Wilson and Anthony Zelada, the latter two with varsity experience. The secondary will be anchored by Gordon, Ndawula and Williams while Luevano and senior Andy Tang will be the main inside linebackers while Cook and senior Matt Villalba will be on the outside.
“We’re starting to get to the point where the kids have basic concepts and understanding,” Reed said. “In my opinion, we’re Cerritos; we’re not as talented as Gahr or Artesia who can run more simplified schemes, and do just because they’re more athletic.”
SCHEDULE
Just like Artesia’s upcoming season, nothing will come easy for the Dons if they want to add to their victory total of the past few seasons. Reed says Gabrielino, the week zero opponent, runs the option while Gahr runs a spread offense. Since 2004, the Dons have scored just 13 points against their city rivals from the north side of town. Two of the first four opponents failed to reach the playoffs last season while the meeting with Rancho Alamitos will be the fourth since 2005. Cerritos won the first two of those games.
Over the past 12 seasons, Cerritos has a winning record against one league team-John Glenn (8-4). The Dons homecoming game will be against Artesia, one of two league foes in the past 12 seasons they have yet to host in their homecoming game; La Mirada is the other.
“I like our non-league schedule,” Reed said. “To me the only purpose of preseason football is to get us as absolutely ready as possible for Suburban League. Whether we go 4-0 or 0-4 doesn’t matter to me. My question at the end of that will be are we ready for Suburban League play? Our goal every season is to try to make the playoffs.”
Saturday, August 7, 2010
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