By Jerry Bernstein
The Artesia City Council reiterated its opposition to Governor Jerry Brown’s proposal to abolish Redevelopment Agencies in California by July 1 at its Feb. 14 meeting. The council also took offense to a statement made by at a joint sub-committee hearing of the Assembly Committee on Revenue and Taxation by Rep. Dickinson (D-Sacramento) that due to the States budget crisis, Redevelopment Agencies are not in a place where they can just say no to the Governor’s proposal. He commented there was a need to revise how property tax revenue was distributed. His comment was echoed by the joint committee Co-Chairs Rep. Buchanan (D-Alamo) and Rep. Perea (D- Fresno).
Artesia Mayor Victor Manalo said he was not very happy about that statement. He said it was ridiculous that “we who have such a stake in this proposal are not being consulted. Apparently we’re suppose to just take it in the stomach.” He said if this attitude continues to exist we have to contact members of the legislature we have connections with just to make sure our voice is being heard.
In other business the Council continued to a special meeting on Feb 28 a request by Roger Patel who needs 13 additional parking spaces for expansion of his restaurant on Pioneer Boulevard. Patel is seeking to pay a parking In-Lieu parking fee until such time as firm plans are adopted to provide permanent parking in the downtown area. Discussion centered on a surface parking lot or construction of a parking structure on 186th Street and Corby Avenue and/or surface parking on the MTA Right of Way on the east side of Pioneer Boulevard. Patel said he is losing money since the tenant has vacated the premises to make room for the expansion of the restaurant.
The Council awarded a contract to Ventura Construction, Inc. in the amount of $138,400 for construction of modular restroom facilities in the area immediately to the rear of the Historic District Museum and will serve the museum and the Old Fire Station Museum.
In December 2007 the Redevelopment Agency issued tax increment bonds for the project.
In December 2010 staff reported that $966,965.00 was the available balance in the Historical District project funds. The restroom project is one of several projects slated for the district.
In other business the Council approved nine applications for fireworks stand permits at $150 per permit. Seeking a permit were the Cerritos Rod & Gun Club, Gahr High School Band Boosters, Gahr High School Sports Program, Cerritos High School Band Boosters, Cerritos High School Football, Artesia Punishers, Ross Middle School Arts, Parents of 593, and Artesia Chamber of Commerce. Voting against the permits was
Concilmember John Lyons, who said he is against having fireworks in the city.
The Council approved a Conditional Use Permit for an automobile service station and mini-mart located at 16809 Pioneer Blvd. The property is located on the Commercial General (CG) Zone. Applicant is Salb Alababadi.
The Council also approved a non-exclusive agreement for Youth Baseball Officiator services with Albert Bustos. Parks and Recreation Superintendent Melissa Gobas told the council Bustos has been providing umpire services for the youth baseball/softball league since 2008.
In other business the council continued a discussion on whether to permit bingo in the city to its next meeting. Councilmembers appeared confused on the type of Bingo they were discussing. Councilmember Michele Diaz said her idea was to raise money for charities. However, there appeared to be confusion on whether they were thinking about a Bingo Club similar to the one in Hawaiian Gardens or fundraising bingo permitted by many cities for churches and/or service clubs that play once a week under a city permit.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Lazy Dog Café to Open March 9 at Los Cerritos Center
As part of the Los Cerritos Center’s recent expansion project, the 7,489-square-foot Lazy Dog Cafe currently under construction is scheduled to open on Mar. 9.The restaurant is located between California Pizza Kitchen and Nordstrom and will be the eighth location of the Southern California concept restaurant.
The restaurant will offer extensive lunch and dinner menus featuring items inspired by cultures around the world, including influences from Italy, South America, China, France and classic Americana. The bar offers the full lunch and dinner menus and high-definition plasma televisions for sports fans. Dog lovers are also permitted to bring their pets to the restaurant’s patio area while enjoying a lunch or dinner outdoors.
Cerritos girls soccer team advance to California state championships March 12
The Cerritos Firecrackers girls’ soccer team won the American Youth Soccer Organization’s Section 11 title by a 2-1 score over Corona Del Mar on Sunday, February 13 to qualify for the AYSO California State Championships to be held at the Chapman Sports Complex in Garden Grove on March 12.
The Firecrackers, a 15-member team of 13- and 14-year old girls, are part of the AYSO Region 54 Cerritos soccer program and now one of only four teams statewide that will compete in the prestigious AYSO California Championships next month. The Firecrackers began their road to playing for the state championship by first winning the Region 54 league title to qualify for area playoffs. The Firecrackers faced strong teams from Cypress, W. Garden Grove, Whittier, Los Alamitos and Garden Grove to reach the area final before taking home to the playoffs’ top medal with a 4-0 victory over a team from Los Alamitos.
Next, the Firecrackers won the Section 11 tournament by winning all four of its games by the same score of 2-1. The Cerritos team won its opening section game on Saturday morning against La Mesa when Karen Malacon expertly put away from a cross from Juliana Orozco as time was expiring. In the afternoon game, the Firecrackers rallied to beat San Juan Capistrano thanks to goals by Rubi Vazquez and Madison Wells. With a place in the section final at stake, Cerritos girls delivered a gutsy performance against a talented South Gate squad and a pair of goals by Vazquez sent the team to the championship.
The girls then played their best game of the year on Sunday afternoon, as they produced scoring chance after scoring chance in the first half against Corona Del Mar. Their perseverance paid off in the final half with Madison Wells and Juliana Orozco beating the Corona Del Mar goalkeeper to send the Cerritos’ supporters into frenzy. Corona Del Mar made the score 2-1 in the final seconds of the game and when the final whistle sounded the local girls had secured their berth in the state championships. As winners, the Cerritos girls claimed the top spot in a tough section that is made up of nearly 70 regions and featuring around 300 teams in this division.
In midfield or in attack, Cheyenne Avila, Isabel Garcia, Marissa Pacheco, Cynthia Rogel and Vanessa Van Deudekom ran tirelessly and chased every ball to provide the forwards with opportunities to score. At the back, defensive captain Summer Jordan and talented young central defender Kaylie Mota turned away every challenge, while fullbacks Justine Vitug, Ariel Burns and Lauren Miranda played their roles to perfection while often facing the opposing teams’ best offensive players. Karina Mayoral, who has improved with every game as the team’s starting goalkeeper, made a bucketful of outstanding saves while providing leadership in defense.
For the season, the Cerritos Firecrackers’ overall record is 17 wins, one loss and two ties. The team has scored 61 goals in 20 games while allowing only eight. Madison Wells is the leading scorer with 19 goals followed by Rubi Vazquez with 15, Juliana Orozco with 10 and Karen Malacon with six. Several of this team’s players are also on the Cerritos region’s All Star team that will try to advance this upcoming weekend to the AYSO California State All Star Championships.
The California State Championships cover over 260 regions. There are an estimated 800 teams in the Girls U14 division statewide. Sign-ups for the Cerritos Region 54 Fall 2011 season will take place in the summer. For more information visit the region’s internet site at www.ayso54.org.
Supervisor Don Knabe Calls for Bi-Partisan Budget Solution
State deficit now projected to be $28 billion.
By Jerry Bernstein
Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe, speaking before Cerritos Regional Chamber of Commerce luncheon Feb. 10, said the only way to solve the state budget deficit is for a bi-partisan solution. “I have news for you, “he stated, “the state deficit of $25 billion is now $28 billion.”
He said there was a new buzzword, “realignment.” He said everyone in the room from businessmen to educators, will be impacted.
“We had a $500 billion economy in Los Angels County and the region. We represent the 19th largest economy in the world driven by imports and exports. Today we are in a very stressful economic situation.” He said a look at the last 30 years reveals the county of Los Angeles and its 80 cities have added almost three million residents to the population and only about 500,000 jobs. That is not a good sign,” he stated. “ The city of Los Angeles, for example, which represents 40 percent of the county’s population, has added approximately one million residents since 1980 but has not created one new net job.” He said we can’t print money to solve the budget deficit. It’s all about creating jobs. Here in Los Angeles County the employment rate is 12.7 percent.
He said the state legislature has introduced nine new bills He wanted to know who was carrying the bill to cover the $28 billion deficit. He said he has accepted the governor’s plan to give local government more responsibility [realignment]. However, he warned local government must be careful that his proposal comes with attached purse strings. “We cannot allow the governor to resolve the state’s budget deficit on the backs of local government.” He cited as an example the proposal to move state inmates to county jails. Who is going to pay for their incarceration? he asked.
Knabe said programs shifted from the state to the counties in 2004-5 were not accompanied by complete state funding. “The state still owes us about $250,000. He said California has the highest number of four-year colleges and universities in the country. “If we eliminated every state university and college and closed down the California Highway Patrol we still would not have enough money to resolve the budget deficit. “We need to create jobs that will generate revenue.
He said a $28 billion deficit was not going to be resolved in a short period of time. What is needed as we move forward is to solve it in a bi-partisan way. He said he believes by working together with our state representatives we can solve the deficit. “We know what we have to do,” he asserted.
Asked how long he believes it will take the state to climb out of the hole it is in, the Supervisor said he believes it will take about three years. He said he believes the “realignment” will mean everything will have to be renegotiated, in the field of education and in business. He said the good old days are gone. He believes government employees will have to start contributing to their pension fund like everyone else.
By Jerry Bernstein
Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe, speaking before Cerritos Regional Chamber of Commerce luncheon Feb. 10, said the only way to solve the state budget deficit is for a bi-partisan solution. “I have news for you, “he stated, “the state deficit of $25 billion is now $28 billion.”
He said there was a new buzzword, “realignment.” He said everyone in the room from businessmen to educators, will be impacted.
“We had a $500 billion economy in Los Angels County and the region. We represent the 19th largest economy in the world driven by imports and exports. Today we are in a very stressful economic situation.” He said a look at the last 30 years reveals the county of Los Angeles and its 80 cities have added almost three million residents to the population and only about 500,000 jobs. That is not a good sign,” he stated. “ The city of Los Angeles, for example, which represents 40 percent of the county’s population, has added approximately one million residents since 1980 but has not created one new net job.” He said we can’t print money to solve the budget deficit. It’s all about creating jobs. Here in Los Angeles County the employment rate is 12.7 percent.
He said the state legislature has introduced nine new bills He wanted to know who was carrying the bill to cover the $28 billion deficit. He said he has accepted the governor’s plan to give local government more responsibility [realignment]. However, he warned local government must be careful that his proposal comes with attached purse strings. “We cannot allow the governor to resolve the state’s budget deficit on the backs of local government.” He cited as an example the proposal to move state inmates to county jails. Who is going to pay for their incarceration? he asked.
Knabe said programs shifted from the state to the counties in 2004-5 were not accompanied by complete state funding. “The state still owes us about $250,000. He said California has the highest number of four-year colleges and universities in the country. “If we eliminated every state university and college and closed down the California Highway Patrol we still would not have enough money to resolve the budget deficit. “We need to create jobs that will generate revenue.
He said a $28 billion deficit was not going to be resolved in a short period of time. What is needed as we move forward is to solve it in a bi-partisan way. He said he believes by working together with our state representatives we can solve the deficit. “We know what we have to do,” he asserted.
Asked how long he believes it will take the state to climb out of the hole it is in, the Supervisor said he believes it will take about three years. He said he believes the “realignment” will mean everything will have to be renegotiated, in the field of education and in business. He said the good old days are gone. He believes government employees will have to start contributing to their pension fund like everyone else.
Candidate Bruce Barrows
Dear residents,
At the last forum, hosted by American Association of University Women (La Palma and Cerritos). Our current Council was accused of being out of touch with our residents due to the fact that we have reached an impasse with our employees Union. For several reasons I feel that this accusation is misplaced. First, I believe my responsibility is to our residents as set forth in our charter. Second, also according to our charter, the City Manager is the employee of the Council who represents us in administration of all the employees, except those under the City Clerk.
Normally, the employees union starts negotiating with our City Staff 3 or 4 months before we finalize a budget, as that allows us to reflect any potential financial impacts. This year, we were presented a list of demands after the budget. (please visit the City’s website and visit the July 8, 2010 Council meeting to listen and watch the demands as presented. Copies of those demands are available from our City Clerk.) After more than two dozen meet and confers between the union and the city representative (an Attorney retained by the City) we reached an impasse. To date, we haven’t been able to bring about a settlement.
While we, the Council, hold our employees in very high regard, we haven’t been able to meet the public demands by the union because they present several distinct problems. First, the Union, wants a seat at any table where management discussions are held and for them to have the ability to influence the outcome. This is a clear violation of our charter which holds the Council accountable to the residents and the City Manager accountable to the Council. The Union desires to have a say with no accountability.
Another problem, with the economic recession and difficulties with Sacramento’s deficits and their attempts to raid city funds is that our Union is seeking a pay increase. Ours sales taxes are down these last two years and the city, as I explained last week, has reduced spending by over 11% and cut a cumulative amount of almost $18 Million. We have also started out each year budgeting to draw from our reserves and haven’t done so, yet. There is simply no room to give a pay increase. Still, some Union members feel we should draw down our reserves to finance a pay increase. However, when asked, who is going to pay increased cost and pension costs once the reserves are gone, the union has no answer.
The union is supporting two candidates during this election, who have stated they strongly support the Union and are proud of their endorsement. At the Forum held by the Chamber, one candidate stated that he supports their management participation demands.
I have high respect for our employees, at all levels and in all departments. I also understand a union putting a large number of requests on the table and then working down to something reasonable. Only today, we don’t have the revenue to do the give and take that normally happens during the negotiations. Our residents expect the council to be prudent, which we have been. I promise to continue to fight to protect the city’s finances and maintai
At the last forum, hosted by American Association of University Women (La Palma and Cerritos). Our current Council was accused of being out of touch with our residents due to the fact that we have reached an impasse with our employees Union. For several reasons I feel that this accusation is misplaced. First, I believe my responsibility is to our residents as set forth in our charter. Second, also according to our charter, the City Manager is the employee of the Council who represents us in administration of all the employees, except those under the City Clerk.
Normally, the employees union starts negotiating with our City Staff 3 or 4 months before we finalize a budget, as that allows us to reflect any potential financial impacts. This year, we were presented a list of demands after the budget. (please visit the City’s website and visit the July 8, 2010 Council meeting to listen and watch the demands as presented. Copies of those demands are available from our City Clerk.) After more than two dozen meet and confers between the union and the city representative (an Attorney retained by the City) we reached an impasse. To date, we haven’t been able to bring about a settlement.
While we, the Council, hold our employees in very high regard, we haven’t been able to meet the public demands by the union because they present several distinct problems. First, the Union, wants a seat at any table where management discussions are held and for them to have the ability to influence the outcome. This is a clear violation of our charter which holds the Council accountable to the residents and the City Manager accountable to the Council. The Union desires to have a say with no accountability.
Another problem, with the economic recession and difficulties with Sacramento’s deficits and their attempts to raid city funds is that our Union is seeking a pay increase. Ours sales taxes are down these last two years and the city, as I explained last week, has reduced spending by over 11% and cut a cumulative amount of almost $18 Million. We have also started out each year budgeting to draw from our reserves and haven’t done so, yet. There is simply no room to give a pay increase. Still, some Union members feel we should draw down our reserves to finance a pay increase. However, when asked, who is going to pay increased cost and pension costs once the reserves are gone, the union has no answer.
The union is supporting two candidates during this election, who have stated they strongly support the Union and are proud of their endorsement. At the Forum held by the Chamber, one candidate stated that he supports their management participation demands.
I have high respect for our employees, at all levels and in all departments. I also understand a union putting a large number of requests on the table and then working down to something reasonable. Only today, we don’t have the revenue to do the give and take that normally happens during the negotiations. Our residents expect the council to be prudent, which we have been. I promise to continue to fight to protect the city’s finances and maintai
Candidate Joseph Cho
This week, I'd like to devote the column to a very important topic - probably the most important topic that every voter should consider prior to casting his/her precious vote. The topic that I'd like to discuss is the relationship between a councilperson and his/her constituents (i.e. the residents of Cerritos). While all candidates promise to listen to your concerns (what candidate in his right mind wouldn't make such a promise), with me, as an incumbent, you have a record you can use to judge how sincere I am when I make such a promise.
I am proud to say that I have developed some very innovative constituent service programs to better serve my constituents. The crown jewel of my constituent service program is the Neighborhood Park Meet and Greet events. These events, held at different neighborhood parks throughout the city, are designed for me to hear concerns from residents in different neighborhoods within the city, as each neighborhood has its unique issues.
I am the first, and so far only, councilmember in the history of Cerritos to ever offer such a constituent service program. The reason no other councilmember has ever offered such a program is simple: it requires a great deal of effort to put together such an event, and I will proudly admit that I could not possibly put it together all by myself. I have a strong team of 10 appointees behind me who believe in the cause and are willing to help me put together such events. In addition, my wife and children often help out by cooking Korean BBQ for the enjoyment of the participants.
I have also sent out monthly newsletters to residents to let them know what is happening in the city, what my public activities were as a councilmember in the preceding month and any upcoming activities planned for the following month. It takes several days to put together the newsletter, but the effort is worthwhile.
Another example demonstrating my deep commitment to constituent services is that I am the first councilmember to make his personal cell phone number public. It is listed on the City's official web site under my contact information, and I'll repeat it here for your convenience: 562-547-4434.
Many people have asked me why I do all this for my constituents. The answer is simple: I want to serve them, and I see it as my duty as the mayor and councilmember to put my constituents first.
On March 8, please vote to reelect Mayor Joseph Cho to the Cerritos City Council.
I am proud to say that I have developed some very innovative constituent service programs to better serve my constituents. The crown jewel of my constituent service program is the Neighborhood Park Meet and Greet events. These events, held at different neighborhood parks throughout the city, are designed for me to hear concerns from residents in different neighborhoods within the city, as each neighborhood has its unique issues.
I am the first, and so far only, councilmember in the history of Cerritos to ever offer such a constituent service program. The reason no other councilmember has ever offered such a program is simple: it requires a great deal of effort to put together such an event, and I will proudly admit that I could not possibly put it together all by myself. I have a strong team of 10 appointees behind me who believe in the cause and are willing to help me put together such events. In addition, my wife and children often help out by cooking Korean BBQ for the enjoyment of the participants.
I have also sent out monthly newsletters to residents to let them know what is happening in the city, what my public activities were as a councilmember in the preceding month and any upcoming activities planned for the following month. It takes several days to put together the newsletter, but the effort is worthwhile.
Another example demonstrating my deep commitment to constituent services is that I am the first councilmember to make his personal cell phone number public. It is listed on the City's official web site under my contact information, and I'll repeat it here for your convenience: 562-547-4434.
Many people have asked me why I do all this for my constituents. The answer is simple: I want to serve them, and I see it as my duty as the mayor and councilmember to put my constituents first.
On March 8, please vote to reelect Mayor Joseph Cho to the Cerritos City Council.
Candidate Chris Fuentes
Thank you Los Cerritos Community News for providing this important forum! When you cast your ballot, via Absentee or on March 8th, please consider me, Christopher F. “Chris” Fuentes for one of your three votes. I’m running for Cerritos City Council to provide a voice for Cerritos residents who want to see the city; Cut Administrative Waste, Deal With City Maintenance Problems, Increase Tree Maintenance/Pruning and Develop a sensible tree program that includes residents in the process, Deal With the Multi-Million Dollar Annual Loss at the Performing Arts Center (Corporate Sponsor or Public/Private Partnership?), Address Crime; Vandalism, Gang Activity, Property Crimes, Restore the council to a Volunteer position of Public Service NOT Self Service, Rein in Council Travel, Expenses, Percs/Freebies, End No-Bid City Contracts, Increase Library Hours on Sunday and during the week so that people can enjoy our library to the fullest extent. ACKNOWLEDGE and Deal With the end of Redevelopment instead of writing letters to the Governor and spending big money on high priced lawyers to “fight the State”, Improve and enhance Adaptive Recreation opportunities, Accelerate the return of our Bike Lanes, Provide Online Parking Passes, “RUSH” ticket discounts at the Performing Arts Center- we pay IN ADVANCE for every show and SUBSIDIZE every seat- 91% of the tickets are sold outside of Cerritos- so why should empty seats go to waste when residents can pay $10 bucks to enjoy a show and develop interest in attending CCPA events? How will we pay for increased/enhanced programs and services? By SAVING on Administrative Costs, Ending City Subsidies and Giveaways and Dealing with Annual Loss at the CCPA. Most importantly I think the focus on LOCAL matters should be the council’s TOP Priority. I have complete faith and confidence in Cerritos’ future and know that creating an environment of Transparency and Accountability at City Hall will provide the basis for increased citizen participation, bringing residents into the process and progress from a Staff-Driven City to one that places CERRITOS RESIDENTS at the TOP of the chain of command at City Hall. Please consider casting one of your three votes for #2 on your ballot: Christopher F. “Chris” Fuentes HYPERLINK "http://www.chris4cerritos.com" www.chris4cerritos.com
Candidate Grace Hu
’ve had many seniors voice their concerns regarding the Water Aerobics Class. Not only were they concerned about the dramatic 80% fee increase but also the uncertainty of its existence after June 2011. There are certain things the city cannot cut back on: our seniors and our children. Our seniors have paid their dues and helped sculpt the city to how it is now. Yes, it’s good that an agreement was reached and the classes were going to continue through June 2011 but to increase almost double the initial fee isn’t doing our seniors justice. And also, it only continues through June 2011. So what about after? Must they attend the ABC School Board Meeting and protest again, only for the fee to increase another 80%? We must work together, city council and the school board, to explore every possible option to keep the class going and to cut the fees if possible.
Several concerned parents from the West side complained that their children could not attend ABCUSD and have to attend Bellflower School District. I felt awful at the fact that these hard working parents want the best for their children, they pay the same taxes as we do, generate city revenues but their children are unable to attend the best school system our city provides. I don’t believe that this is fair to the parents and more importantly, it’s not fair to the children. This issue needs to be addressed.
A lot of the residents have complained to me about TREES. Their issues: Pine leaves all over the streets, gutter, lawns, and driveways. Pine cones falling on vehicles parked on the street, hazardous to tires on vehicles when running them over, also tree saps on vehicles damaging paint and windows. We must do something about these trees. Some of these trees soared very high up, as if we were in the mountains. I love trees and what they do for our environment but everything has to be done within moderation. I would like to see what we can do to address this concern for our residents and re-evaluate the tree trimming schedule/process.
Concerns over the CCPA have been a big issue. As a businesswoman, I wouldn’t rush into any decision. We need to review and study everything pertaining to the CCPA: that includes, managing, scheduling, booking, maintaining, every aspect of operation. We must explore all possible options, weigh the pros and cons. If that means an independent or corporate partnership, so be it. A facility like that should not have a negative impact in our economy. It was originally used to attract businesses in the Town Center and now it is time we strive to make it profitable.
Several concerned parents from the West side complained that their children could not attend ABCUSD and have to attend Bellflower School District. I felt awful at the fact that these hard working parents want the best for their children, they pay the same taxes as we do, generate city revenues but their children are unable to attend the best school system our city provides. I don’t believe that this is fair to the parents and more importantly, it’s not fair to the children. This issue needs to be addressed.
A lot of the residents have complained to me about TREES. Their issues: Pine leaves all over the streets, gutter, lawns, and driveways. Pine cones falling on vehicles parked on the street, hazardous to tires on vehicles when running them over, also tree saps on vehicles damaging paint and windows. We must do something about these trees. Some of these trees soared very high up, as if we were in the mountains. I love trees and what they do for our environment but everything has to be done within moderation. I would like to see what we can do to address this concern for our residents and re-evaluate the tree trimming schedule/process.
Concerns over the CCPA have been a big issue. As a businesswoman, I wouldn’t rush into any decision. We need to review and study everything pertaining to the CCPA: that includes, managing, scheduling, booking, maintaining, every aspect of operation. We must explore all possible options, weigh the pros and cons. If that means an independent or corporate partnership, so be it. A facility like that should not have a negative impact in our economy. It was originally used to attract businesses in the Town Center and now it is time we strive to make it profitable.
Candidate Harshod Mody
Hello Cerritos Voters and Residents:
Note from Mody, on NEW RULES OF LOCAL CITY GOVERNMENT.
March 08, 2011 City Election is approaching nearer and near. Very excited to serve ALL fellow Cerritos neighbors. Vote for Mody, the candidate for your family!
While walking and talking precincts, in the Great City of Cerritos, rapidly learning more and more about:
My people, Their culture, Their way of life.
MARKET TRENDS: Happily learning how appreciative residents are. Flip side, sadly feeling that sometimes their unhappiness about our:
City, County, State And our Federal Government. People love to see things move smoothly, while their rights are protected. Somebody is CARING about their well being. My neighbors want to make sure that TRUST FACTOR they ELECTED is not violated by crooks and criminals like being played out in CITY OF BELL COURTS. White collar crime has to be constantly monitored in our city too.
Yes, am saying to them – REGISTERED VOTERS, have to choose RIGHT people. If they choose people by POLITCAL PARTY, RACIAL ID, RE-ELECTION or by BIG promises, they are not going to get what they deserve. Our politicians VOTE on behalf of YOU, at ALL PARTY LINES, two times a month and beyond. Voters should AVOID the path of political corruption, so in the end, they do not have to feel sorry for themselves.
The "PARTY LABELED" candidate has an obligation to pay back to party for their Endorsements and Financial contribution; to Candidate's Campaign fund. SELECT and ELECT candidates which are NON- PARTISAN or NON PARTY LABELED or ENDORSED by BIG GROUP AND UNION TEAMSTERS. The Candidate has to promise for non- alignment with non- affiliation, with any group or party, so they will not act as a “PUPPET" Council member. Your elected council member should be INDEPENDENT FAMILY MAN, and not to look for moon-lighting or a select lobbyist.
MARKET TRENDS: There is silver lining; but, somebody has to identify and than react on THEM, for the betterment of ALL CERRITOS RESIDENTS AND NOT JUST VOTERS.
Campaigning has been a lot of fun and happiness and huge education curve for me and my family. When Cerritos residents recognize my face and extend a Welcome Invitation, for a cup of Coffee or glass of water, I feel much honored. Personally thanks, to all of you!!!
Take this opportunity to express sincere thanks to all city staffers and management. Been educated in many ways and avenues, to learn how City administrative staff works for BEST WELFARE of all the residents in Cerritos. Vote for me, Harshad Mody, Family man for NEW RULES OF LOCAL CITY GOVERNMENT.
Note from Mody, on NEW RULES OF LOCAL CITY GOVERNMENT.
March 08, 2011 City Election is approaching nearer and near. Very excited to serve ALL fellow Cerritos neighbors. Vote for Mody, the candidate for your family!
While walking and talking precincts, in the Great City of Cerritos, rapidly learning more and more about:
My people, Their culture, Their way of life.
MARKET TRENDS: Happily learning how appreciative residents are. Flip side, sadly feeling that sometimes their unhappiness about our:
City, County, State And our Federal Government. People love to see things move smoothly, while their rights are protected. Somebody is CARING about their well being. My neighbors want to make sure that TRUST FACTOR they ELECTED is not violated by crooks and criminals like being played out in CITY OF BELL COURTS. White collar crime has to be constantly monitored in our city too.
Yes, am saying to them – REGISTERED VOTERS, have to choose RIGHT people. If they choose people by POLITCAL PARTY, RACIAL ID, RE-ELECTION or by BIG promises, they are not going to get what they deserve. Our politicians VOTE on behalf of YOU, at ALL PARTY LINES, two times a month and beyond. Voters should AVOID the path of political corruption, so in the end, they do not have to feel sorry for themselves.
The "PARTY LABELED" candidate has an obligation to pay back to party for their Endorsements and Financial contribution; to Candidate's Campaign fund. SELECT and ELECT candidates which are NON- PARTISAN or NON PARTY LABELED or ENDORSED by BIG GROUP AND UNION TEAMSTERS. The Candidate has to promise for non- alignment with non- affiliation, with any group or party, so they will not act as a “PUPPET" Council member. Your elected council member should be INDEPENDENT FAMILY MAN, and not to look for moon-lighting or a select lobbyist.
MARKET TRENDS: There is silver lining; but, somebody has to identify and than react on THEM, for the betterment of ALL CERRITOS RESIDENTS AND NOT JUST VOTERS.
Campaigning has been a lot of fun and happiness and huge education curve for me and my family. When Cerritos residents recognize my face and extend a Welcome Invitation, for a cup of Coffee or glass of water, I feel much honored. Personally thanks, to all of you!!!
Take this opportunity to express sincere thanks to all city staffers and management. Been educated in many ways and avenues, to learn how City administrative staff works for BEST WELFARE of all the residents in Cerritos. Vote for me, Harshad Mody, Family man for NEW RULES OF LOCAL CITY GOVERNMENT.
Candidate Mark Pulido
The focus of our City must be on the preservation of the quality of life of our neighborhoods. First and foremost, this means ensuring that our neighborhoods are safe and secure.
Our Cerritos Sheriff’s Department does an outstanding job in protecting our city. I will make sure that we continue to provide the resources necessary for our sheriff’s deputies to do their best work.
However, recent crime statistics from the Sheriff’s Department show that there has been an increase in certain “crimes of opportunity”, which is a problem that the entire community must work together to address.
While overall crime dropped in 2010, residential burglaries increased by nearly 20%. Already in 2011, we have seen more than a 50% increase in residential burglaries from the same time period a year ago. Having your home burglarized can be very traumatic, knowing that the personal sense of security you feel in your own home has been violated.
As a former Cerritos Community Safety Committee Member and having worked directly with city staff and our deputy sheriffs, I am very aware that just hiring more deputies is not the answer. We must make the most out of our community crime prevention programs to increase awareness and get all residents involved in protecting our neighborhoods. There are many steps that everyone can take to make your home less inviting to thieves.
I will continue to support our city’s Neighborhood Watch program, the Virtual Block Club, and the Volunteers On Patrol program. I will actively engage residents to participate in their Neighborhood Watch, one of the most effective tools in preventing crime.
Recently, our Sheriff’s Department received additional bicycles with grant funds. I strongly believe in a community policing approach to public safety and will encourage more bike patrols in around our parks, neighborhoods and the Cerritos Mall and Town Center. This provides more visibility and accessibility with our deputies.
All of us must take responsibility looking out for our neighbors. With a collaborative approach between law enforcement, residents and the City working together, we can make a significant impact in reducing these crimes.
As your councilmember, I will work to make sure we maximize our limited resources to put our neighborhoods first and ensure their safety.
I want to be your voice in City Hall, providing accessible and accountable leadership. For more information, please visit my website www.markpulido.com or email me at markpulido@yahoo.com.
My name is Mark Pulido and I would be honored to have your vote for City Council on March 8th.
Our Cerritos Sheriff’s Department does an outstanding job in protecting our city. I will make sure that we continue to provide the resources necessary for our sheriff’s deputies to do their best work.
However, recent crime statistics from the Sheriff’s Department show that there has been an increase in certain “crimes of opportunity”, which is a problem that the entire community must work together to address.
While overall crime dropped in 2010, residential burglaries increased by nearly 20%. Already in 2011, we have seen more than a 50% increase in residential burglaries from the same time period a year ago. Having your home burglarized can be very traumatic, knowing that the personal sense of security you feel in your own home has been violated.
As a former Cerritos Community Safety Committee Member and having worked directly with city staff and our deputy sheriffs, I am very aware that just hiring more deputies is not the answer. We must make the most out of our community crime prevention programs to increase awareness and get all residents involved in protecting our neighborhoods. There are many steps that everyone can take to make your home less inviting to thieves.
I will continue to support our city’s Neighborhood Watch program, the Virtual Block Club, and the Volunteers On Patrol program. I will actively engage residents to participate in their Neighborhood Watch, one of the most effective tools in preventing crime.
Recently, our Sheriff’s Department received additional bicycles with grant funds. I strongly believe in a community policing approach to public safety and will encourage more bike patrols in around our parks, neighborhoods and the Cerritos Mall and Town Center. This provides more visibility and accessibility with our deputies.
All of us must take responsibility looking out for our neighbors. With a collaborative approach between law enforcement, residents and the City working together, we can make a significant impact in reducing these crimes.
As your councilmember, I will work to make sure we maximize our limited resources to put our neighborhoods first and ensure their safety.
I want to be your voice in City Hall, providing accessible and accountable leadership. For more information, please visit my website www.markpulido.com or email me at markpulido@yahoo.com.
My name is Mark Pulido and I would be honored to have your vote for City Council on March 8th.
Candidate Kirin Rami
My three young children and I have been the city residents for the last 16 years. I love the city for the quality of life it offers. I know the multi-ethnic community well and have involved myself as a volunteer in various affairs. I would now like to give my services to the city from a higher platform—City Council. Thus far our city is running well. But, I feel our city has been run by the same veterans for long enough. This scenario, often, crates a coalition, compulsion and consequently, a potential for scandals. We all know what happened in council chambers of city of Bell. The savvy residents deserve an option. This city is full of smart young professionals with new ideas, new energy who should have a crack at serving the city. I am one of these professionals. I have a Masters degree in English and I am a professor at Long Beach City College and Golden West College. I have some great ideas for further improving our schools, neighborhood safety, infrastructures, traffic circulation at busy intersection, fiscal transparency in city government, create jobs to better the economy, give tax incentives to industries to bring businesses over in the city, and for turning a money loosing propositions into profitable ones.
In the city hall, only one council member cannot make decisions. You need to elect a council member who believes in working together as a team for the well being of the city and its residents. When elected, I will be accessible and approachable to all residents-East and West. I pledge hard work that will bring measurable results.
I am putting all my trust and confidence in you that you would make an informed decision in electing the best candidates. I assure you I would not disappoint you. I have come a long way and you would help me to reach our destination. Together we can make a difference and bring about some changes. We really deserve a change in policies and permits, over night passes and tree problems, sidewalks and streets, safety and adaptive programs. So, for this change to occur, please come out on March 8, 2011 and vote for me: your first choice, first on the ballot.
Kiran Rami
Candidate for Cerritos City Council
1st on the ballot
562 213 2739
electkiranrami@gmail.com
In the city hall, only one council member cannot make decisions. You need to elect a council member who believes in working together as a team for the well being of the city and its residents. When elected, I will be accessible and approachable to all residents-East and West. I pledge hard work that will bring measurable results.
I am putting all my trust and confidence in you that you would make an informed decision in electing the best candidates. I assure you I would not disappoint you. I have come a long way and you would help me to reach our destination. Together we can make a difference and bring about some changes. We really deserve a change in policies and permits, over night passes and tree problems, sidewalks and streets, safety and adaptive programs. So, for this change to occur, please come out on March 8, 2011 and vote for me: your first choice, first on the ballot.
Kiran Rami
Candidate for Cerritos City Council
1st on the ballot
562 213 2739
electkiranrami@gmail.com
CRIME SUMMARY
There were twenty Part I felony crimes reported to the Cerritos Sheriff’s Station last week, down from twenty-five the week before. Robberies increased, commercial burglaries remained the same, as residential and vehicle burglaries along with vehicle thefts decreased. Field deputies handled 264 calls for service, which is up from 230 the previous week. The new 2011 weekly average in calls for service is 259.
There were two robberies investigated last week. At 1:45 p.m. on Thursday February 10, two male teens approached another male teen at Abana Street and Gridley Avenue and took his backpack at knifepoint. At 7:00 p.m. the same evening, a male suspect displayed a handgun in the 13200 block of 166th Street and robbed a male adult victim of cash.
Residential burglaries dropped from six to five last week. Three entries were made possible due to open/unlocked doors or windows, and two windows were pried open. Cash, a handgun, video games, jewelry, and laptop computers were missing. The new 2011 weekly average in residential burglaries is 4.6.
Unfortunately, most jurisdictions report that a leading cause of residential burglaries is that an occupant leaves a door or window open or unlocked. This provides the burglar(s) with an effortless entry into the home. Avoid becoming a victim and take the brief moments needed to make sure that all doors and windows are secured before you leave.
Three commercial burglaries were reported last week, the same as the previous one. All were closed businesses. A shattered door, a pried door, and cut hinges were used as methods of entry. Scrap metal and cash were taken. The 2011 weekly average in “other structure”/commercial burglaries is now 3.4.
Vehicle burglaries decreased from nine to six last week. Five were in high-volume commercial parking lots, and five were SUVs. Property that was missing included third-row seats (from SUVs), purses, wallets, a stereo system, checks, bank deposit bags, and cell phones. The new 2011 weekly average in vehicle burglaries is 6.4.
Visible property left in the passengers compartment continues to be the number one cause of vehicle burglaries. Don’t leave ANYTHING in your vehicle that wil attract a thief.
NO vehicle thefts were reported last week. The 2011 weekly average in vehicle thefts is now 2.5.
The best method to immediately display that your vehicle is protected from theft is the use of a visible deterrent such as a steering wheel lock. This inexpensive “insurance policy” can cost between $30-$50, and tells the commonly pressed for time thief that another target would be more appealing.
Go to www.safercerritos.com for an extensive library of crime prevention tips, disaster preparedness information, and a variety of links to other pertinent sites.
There were two robberies investigated last week. At 1:45 p.m. on Thursday February 10, two male teens approached another male teen at Abana Street and Gridley Avenue and took his backpack at knifepoint. At 7:00 p.m. the same evening, a male suspect displayed a handgun in the 13200 block of 166th Street and robbed a male adult victim of cash.
Residential burglaries dropped from six to five last week. Three entries were made possible due to open/unlocked doors or windows, and two windows were pried open. Cash, a handgun, video games, jewelry, and laptop computers were missing. The new 2011 weekly average in residential burglaries is 4.6.
Unfortunately, most jurisdictions report that a leading cause of residential burglaries is that an occupant leaves a door or window open or unlocked. This provides the burglar(s) with an effortless entry into the home. Avoid becoming a victim and take the brief moments needed to make sure that all doors and windows are secured before you leave.
Three commercial burglaries were reported last week, the same as the previous one. All were closed businesses. A shattered door, a pried door, and cut hinges were used as methods of entry. Scrap metal and cash were taken. The 2011 weekly average in “other structure”/commercial burglaries is now 3.4.
Vehicle burglaries decreased from nine to six last week. Five were in high-volume commercial parking lots, and five were SUVs. Property that was missing included third-row seats (from SUVs), purses, wallets, a stereo system, checks, bank deposit bags, and cell phones. The new 2011 weekly average in vehicle burglaries is 6.4.
Visible property left in the passengers compartment continues to be the number one cause of vehicle burglaries. Don’t leave ANYTHING in your vehicle that wil attract a thief.
NO vehicle thefts were reported last week. The 2011 weekly average in vehicle thefts is now 2.5.
The best method to immediately display that your vehicle is protected from theft is the use of a visible deterrent such as a steering wheel lock. This inexpensive “insurance policy” can cost between $30-$50, and tells the commonly pressed for time thief that another target would be more appealing.
Go to www.safercerritos.com for an extensive library of crime prevention tips, disaster preparedness information, and a variety of links to other pertinent sites.
Dr. Urban on Today’s Dentistry: Oral Cancer
Let me review the facts about oral cancer. The American Dental Association has estimated that there are about 36,000 new cases of oral cancer diagnosed every year in the United States. About 25% will die from this disease. Disturbingly, about one half of these new cases occur in people under 50 years old and most are non smokers. There is a five-fold increase in the coincidence of oral cancer in people under 40.
Why are the demographic changes occurring? Some attribute the increase to the sexual revolution and the accompanying increase in oral sex. The culprit is the HPV virus that is a known risk factor for oral, head, and neck cancers.
As with most cancers early detection can reduce the morbidity and certainly the treatment required to rid the individual of the tumor. What doctor actually spends all of their time looking into your mouth to fix cavities, heal infected gums, improve smiles, clean teeth, and remove bad teeth? Your dentist of course!
Dentists and hygienists spend a few moments at every examination studying the soft tissues of the mouth to detect any changes, growths, and discolorations. Although visual examination can be effective dentists have a variety of screening tests that can be performed to detect changes under the soft tissues of the mouth.
These include a mouth rinse and examination with a fluorescent light, an oral scraping, and special optical lights. These tests can assure the dentist and the patient that everything is probably okay. In a few cases a referral to the oral surgeon for a confirming biopsy is necessary. In a minority of these biopsies further treatment is required.
The seriousness or incidence of fatality of oral cancer should require a thorough examination and aggressive treatment. Annual examinations are recommended and follow-up necessary. In general any mouth sore should not last more than two weeks.
I remember when my uncle was informed that he had a squamous carcinoma on his tongue. Thinking it would heal and go away he did nothing about it for three months until the pain was overwhelming. The cancer had spread into the jawbone so the surgeon was forced to remove half of his jaw and tongue. My uncle had to retrain himself how to eat food again in front of a mirror. Speech was greatly hampered and the facial deformity was obvious.
Please see your dentist at regular intervals.
For answers to your dental questions, contact
Douglas Urban, D.D.S.
Cerritos, CA 90703
562 924-1523
DrDouglasUrban.com
Why are the demographic changes occurring? Some attribute the increase to the sexual revolution and the accompanying increase in oral sex. The culprit is the HPV virus that is a known risk factor for oral, head, and neck cancers.
As with most cancers early detection can reduce the morbidity and certainly the treatment required to rid the individual of the tumor. What doctor actually spends all of their time looking into your mouth to fix cavities, heal infected gums, improve smiles, clean teeth, and remove bad teeth? Your dentist of course!
Dentists and hygienists spend a few moments at every examination studying the soft tissues of the mouth to detect any changes, growths, and discolorations. Although visual examination can be effective dentists have a variety of screening tests that can be performed to detect changes under the soft tissues of the mouth.
These include a mouth rinse and examination with a fluorescent light, an oral scraping, and special optical lights. These tests can assure the dentist and the patient that everything is probably okay. In a few cases a referral to the oral surgeon for a confirming biopsy is necessary. In a minority of these biopsies further treatment is required.
The seriousness or incidence of fatality of oral cancer should require a thorough examination and aggressive treatment. Annual examinations are recommended and follow-up necessary. In general any mouth sore should not last more than two weeks.
I remember when my uncle was informed that he had a squamous carcinoma on his tongue. Thinking it would heal and go away he did nothing about it for three months until the pain was overwhelming. The cancer had spread into the jawbone so the surgeon was forced to remove half of his jaw and tongue. My uncle had to retrain himself how to eat food again in front of a mirror. Speech was greatly hampered and the facial deformity was obvious.
Please see your dentist at regular intervals.
For answers to your dental questions, contact
Douglas Urban, D.D.S.
Cerritos, CA 90703
562 924-1523
DrDouglasUrban.com
Southeast ROP Automotive brings Electric Vehicles to Artesia High School
The Electric Vehicles are here! Southeast ROP has received a generous donation. Louroe Electronics located in Van Nuys, California, donated 3 electric vehicles to the Southeast ROP Automotive Program at Artesia High School. Marty Supple, ROP Instructor, will use these vehicles as an instructional tool for both his Alternative Fuels class and his automotive classes. Students will learn battery technology, electric motors and their functions, while promoting “green technology” on the campus.
Louroe Electronics’ generous donation provides unique educational opportunities and experiences for Southeast ROP high school students. Student learning opportunities in the classroom are greatly enhanced and make a lasting impact on students and our future workforce.
Louroe Electronics’ generous donation provides unique educational opportunities and experiences for Southeast ROP high school students. Student learning opportunities in the classroom are greatly enhanced and make a lasting impact on students and our future workforce.
Local officials celebrate Year of the Rabbit
By Larry Caballero
More than 200 Cerritos Chinese American Senior Citizen Association members and guests came together Feb. 12 at the Cerritos Senior Center to celebrate the Chinese New Year and to pay tribute to outgoing President Ginger Tang who had served the organization with distinction for two years. Dr. James Chang has been elected its new President.
This is the Year of the Rabbit for peace, opportunities, prosperity and hopes. Members and guests enjoyed a day full of entertainment including a Chinese Opera, a Chinese buffet lunch, Lion Dance, Song Bo Choir, Chinese cultural dances, a fashion show, mahjong contest and a dancing and karaoke party.
CCASCA was organized to serve the local Chinese senior citizen community more than 19 years ago. It is very active in the community and has more than 1000 paid members. “Mrs. Tang’s involvement with our senior activities, hard work, multiple talents and leadership in the last two years will be definitely missed. We just wish her well as we continue to bring in services to our Association,” said past President Charles Lee.
“Dr. Chang has been serving our Association for a long time and is well known to the community. We believe with his past experiences and his willingness to serve, he will bring our Association an even higher level of services to our senior members in the years to come.”
Chang thanked the Association for electing him President and promised that this year the Association will be planning many senior activities.
Lunar New Year celebrated at Stowers Elementary School
Dr. Jim Chang, Amy Basto, Jennifer Hewitt, School Boardmember Olympia Chen, Dr. Mary Sieu, Dr. Gary Smuts, Boardmember James Kang, Brian Tom, Dr. Tom Tracy. On Wednesday, Feb. 9 Stowers Elementary School celebrated the Lunar New Year in a special assembly with a lion dance and a performance by the students participating in their after-school Mandarin class. This is the first year of the Mandarin after-school program held at Stowers, an International Baccalaureate candidate school. Attending the special program were Boardmembers Olympia Chen and James Kang,, Superintendent Dr. Gary Smuts, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Mary Sieu, and Brian Tom and Olfie Chanco of the California Education Center. The guests provided a red envelope (lycee) with money to the Lion as a symbol of prosperity. Each student at Stowers also received a red envelope to commemorate the Lunar New Year.
Cerritos Regional Chamber Seeking Contestants for the 2011 Miss Cerritos Contest
The 2011 Miss Cerritos Contest and Networking Mixer will be held on Mar. 22 from 5:00 - 7:00 pm at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.
Miss Cerritos is NOT a pageant. It is a professional development opportunity for young women. “We are looking for professional, outgoing, responsible, articulate young women to represent the Chamber as an Ambassador throughout the year.,” said Chamber Executive Director Catherine Gaughen.
The goal of Miss Cerritos is for young women to gain professional networking skills, public speaking and interview skills, and to make contacts within the Cerritos business community to help further their professional careers.
Applicants must be between the ages of high school graduate to 27 years-old and live, work, or go to school in Cerritos (or work for a business that is a member of the Cerritos Regional Chamber of Commerce).
Those women interested in participating in the Miss Cerritos Contest should contact the Chamber Office: 562/467-0800. The contestant orientation meeting is scheduled for Monday, Mar. 1 at 11:00 am and again at 6:00 pm at the Chamber Office - 13259 East South Street.
If your business is interested in sponsoring a young woman, contact the Chamber for additional information: 562/467-0800 or catherine@cerritos.org.
Miss Cerritos is NOT a pageant. It is a professional development opportunity for young women. “We are looking for professional, outgoing, responsible, articulate young women to represent the Chamber as an Ambassador throughout the year.,” said Chamber Executive Director Catherine Gaughen.
The goal of Miss Cerritos is for young women to gain professional networking skills, public speaking and interview skills, and to make contacts within the Cerritos business community to help further their professional careers.
Applicants must be between the ages of high school graduate to 27 years-old and live, work, or go to school in Cerritos (or work for a business that is a member of the Cerritos Regional Chamber of Commerce).
Those women interested in participating in the Miss Cerritos Contest should contact the Chamber Office: 562/467-0800. The contestant orientation meeting is scheduled for Monday, Mar. 1 at 11:00 am and again at 6:00 pm at the Chamber Office - 13259 East South Street.
If your business is interested in sponsoring a young woman, contact the Chamber for additional information: 562/467-0800 or catherine@cerritos.org.
Norwalk Senior Center offers tour to Cherry Blossom Festival in Little Tokyo
Come with us to experience the Japanese culture at the 10th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Little Tokyo. Your afternoon starts off with lunch at Benihana’s Teppan Restaurant. Each guest will have a choice of steak, chicken, or shrimp prepared on the grill. It’s not just the food that makes this place special, but the way your food is prepared. Here the chefs will create culinary magic before your eyes. After lunch it is off to the 10th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Little Tokyo. This festival offers everything from traditional Japanese dancing to the ancient art of the tea ceremony. Other highlights include martial arts demonstrations, hand-made crafts and numerous cultural displays. The tour will depart on Saturday, April 2 at 10:30 a.m. from the Norwalk Arts and Sports Complex and return at approximately 6:00 p.m.
Ticket sales for Norwalk residents begin Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. Open ticket sales begin Wednesday, February 23, 2011. Tickets are $49 per person (adults age 50 and older); price includes transportation on a luxury coach, lunch, and the assistance of well-trained volunteer tour guides. Advanced registration is required and is open until filled. For a complete list of upcoming Tours or more information, please call (562) 929-5580.
Ticket sales for Norwalk residents begin Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. Open ticket sales begin Wednesday, February 23, 2011. Tickets are $49 per person (adults age 50 and older); price includes transportation on a luxury coach, lunch, and the assistance of well-trained volunteer tour guides. Advanced registration is required and is open until filled. For a complete list of upcoming Tours or more information, please call (562) 929-5580.
AAUW Presents “Operation Literacy”
Long Beach –Members and guests of AAUW Long Beach Branch will welcome Virginia Sanchez, General Librarian with the Long Beach Public Library on Saturday, February 5, 2011 at the Leisure World Clubhouse, 1280 Golden Rain Rd., Seal Beach, CA. Sanchez is widely recognized for her efforts as a U.S. Navy intelligence analyst stationed for ten months at Camp Blackhorse outside Kabul, Afghanistan where she organized “Operation Literacy” for servicemen stationed there to read books to their children.
The meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. with the program at 11:00 a.m. For luncheon reservations, please call Pat Ferrer at 562-597-4781. Cost of the luncheon is $12.00. The program is open to the public.
.AAUW provides scholarships to local middle-school girls to attend Tech Trek, a summer camp at University California Irvine and Whittier College for one week and also the S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Education and Math) Conference in February to encourage local middle-school girls to prepare for college.
The meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. with the program at 11:00 a.m. For luncheon reservations, please call Pat Ferrer at 562-597-4781. Cost of the luncheon is $12.00. The program is open to the public.
.AAUW provides scholarships to local middle-school girls to attend Tech Trek, a summer camp at University California Irvine and Whittier College for one week and also the S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Education and Math) Conference in February to encourage local middle-school girls to prepare for college.
Recycling drive at Whitney High School
Whitney High School is organizing a recycling drive to do our part in protecting the environment. The drive is being sponsored by the Whitney Indian Parents Association (a subsidiary of Whitney Foundation for Educational Excellence, a non-profit organization) and will be held in the parking lot of Whitney High School on Saturday, March 12th and Sunday, March 13th, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Items that will be accepted for recycling include e-waste such as display units (CRT Monitors, Terminals, CRT TVs, LCD TVs, etc.), laptops, desktop computers and peripherals (printers, fax machines, scanners, etc.), networking and telecom equipment (modems, routers, etc.), consumer electronics (VCRs, set top boxes, etc.), printer cartridges, cell phones and chargers. Volunteers will help you unload the equipment from your vehicles and a receipt will be provided for tax purposes. Info. whitney.wipa@gmail.com.
Items that will be accepted for recycling include e-waste such as display units (CRT Monitors, Terminals, CRT TVs, LCD TVs, etc.), laptops, desktop computers and peripherals (printers, fax machines, scanners, etc.), networking and telecom equipment (modems, routers, etc.), consumer electronics (VCRs, set top boxes, etc.), printer cartridges, cell phones and chargers. Volunteers will help you unload the equipment from your vehicles and a receipt will be provided for tax purposes. Info. whitney.wipa@gmail.com.
Rep. Linda Sánchez names Whittier man “Veteran of the Month” for January 2011
On Wednesday, February 2, Congresswoman Linda Sánchez continued her monthly veterans’ outreach program and named Operation Desert Storm veteran Brian Moralez as the 39th Congressional District’s ”Veteran of the Month” for January 2011. Mr. Moralez was chosen by Congresswoman Sánchez’s Veterans Advisory Council.
“Mr. Moralez has a passion for public service that is inspirational,” said Congresswoman Sánchez. “Not only did he serve our country with his military service, but Mr. Moralez continues to make sure our veterans are recognized and supported. His involvement in the community is a great example for our younger generation to follow.”
Mr. Moralez has five children and four grandchildren. He is also an avid antique car enthusiast. For more information regarding the “Veteran of the Month
“Mr. Moralez has a passion for public service that is inspirational,” said Congresswoman Sánchez. “Not only did he serve our country with his military service, but Mr. Moralez continues to make sure our veterans are recognized and supported. His involvement in the community is a great example for our younger generation to follow.”
Mr. Moralez has five children and four grandchildren. He is also an avid antique car enthusiast. For more information regarding the “Veteran of the Month
Optimists host annual pancake breakfast for Cerritos Girls Softball Association
The Cerritos Optimist Club hosted its annual Pancake Breakfast at Cerritos County Park Feb. 12 for the Cerritos Girls Softball Association opening day ceremonies. Approximately 2,500 pancakes and sausages were served to 1,200 supporters. Optimist serving their tour of serving the pancakes were (l-r) George Ray, Peter Sinclair, Mike Inouye, Brady Dunn, Bob Brown and Gary McHatton. Cost of the breakfast was $5 with all proceeds going to the Association. Optimist Ebie Ghaneian, owner of Café & Stuff in Downey, provided the grill.
Photo by David Derriek
Nuñez named La Palma Police Chief
By Loreen Berlin
Eric R. Nuñez was appointed to the position of Chief of Police by La Palma City Manager Dominic Lazzaretto,this past January.
Nuñez is the 10th police chief to serve the city of La Palma and replaces recently retired chief of police Ed Ethell who served La Palma for 29 years.
Nuñez said that right after he graduated in May of 1991 from the Golden West College Police Academy, he was recruited by then Sgt. Ethell to join the La Palma Police Department.
This May, Nuñez will celebrate his 20th year working for the city of La Palma.
“I received a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from the University of La Verne and will graduate from the University of Southern California School of Policy, Planning and Development with an Executive Masters in Leadership this May also,” Nuñez said.
Until his promotion to sergeant in 1995, Nuñez served as a patrol officer. “As a sergeant, I worked in the Detective Bureau, Administrative Support Bureau and the Patrol Bureau,” he said.
In 2004, Nuñez was promoted from sergeant to captain. The rank of lieutenant no longer exists.
As a captain, Nuñez served as the Services Division Commander for three years, rotating to the Operations Division where he worked from 2006 until 2011 when he was appointed as chief of police.
“I was born in San Pedro on the Fort McArthur Military Base, but moved around with my family because my father, Sgt. Rudolph Nuñez, was in the military,” Nuñez said.
“My father was killed in action June 13, 1966, while serving in the Vietnam War,” he said.
“He was a highly-decorated War Hero, receiving the Distinguished Service Cross and the Silver Star,” Nuñez said.
Nuñez said that when Dan Rather, on CBS, told that he had “cut his teeth” as a journalist during the Vietnam War, he had two distinct memories of Vietnam – one was landing there where the U.S. Marines had come under fire - and the second was of a “body recovery,” which CBS replayed as Rather told the story of the Green Beret Airborne Ranger and Nuñez watched the body recovery of his own father as Rather was describing that terrible day.
“I wound up living in Norwalk during my formative years and attended the John Glenn High School named after Astronaut John Glenn,” he said. “We even had a ‘Space Bar; for our snack bar.”
Nuñez said that he joined the service right out of high school; was honorably discharged and went to work full-time and school part-time to get a degree.
“At the age of 29, I decided to follow the footsteps of two of my cousins who were in law enforcement; Chris Nuñez, who has been with the Buena Park Police Department for nearly 30 years, and Mark Nuñez who was at the Fullerton Police Department for 12 years,” Nuñez said.
“While at the Goldenwest Police Academy, I served as president of the class and graduated #2 overall.”
Nuñez said he was a little older when he attended school, was married and divorced and had two young children who were at the time 2 ½ years old and 3 months, for whom he had totally custody.
Nuñez said that he was fortunate to have the assistance of his former in-laws, the Mizer’s. “Lloyd Mizer was the person who purchased my Academy gun and Elizabeth Mizer helped with child care while I was working and attending school.”
In 1995, Nuñez married Molly Finn Nuñez who is a Nurse Practitioner and works at UCI Medical Center as the Cardiology Nurse Manager; she holds a BS and Master of Science from UCLA.
“When it’s football season, we are truly a ‘House divided.”.
Together the Nunez’s have four children Kyle, 20; Shelby, 18; Haley, 11; and Emily, 3.
“Kyle is a junior at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado and Shelby is attending a local community college and working.”
“In my position as the Chief of Police I’m meeting with all police employees to get a base-line on the moral and health of the department,” Nuñez said.
Nuñez said he is getting input to see what direction the employees would like to go and to get some of their personal goals and aspirations.
Nuñez said that authentic leadership is a collaborative process and that in order to face some of the fiscal and political challenges, “We need to work together and find solutions and efficiencies in the processes we currently have,” Nuñez said.
Hobbies and outside interests include:
Nuñez said loves being a student and said that he will be a life-long learner; he loves playing soccer, tennis, the guitar, and is passionate about all music.
He follows the Tour de France and was formerly an avid road cyclist.
“My extra activities are whatever our children are involved in.”
Nuñez signs off each of his e-mails with, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
For La Palma Police information, call 714-690-3379. For La Palma City information, call 714-690-3300 or visit www.cityoflapalma.org.
Council candidates debate Cerritos future course at AAUW Candidate Forum
By Jerry Bernstein
Kiran Rami said she has found when walking the precincts and meeting Cerritos residents that they have the same concerns that she has. They include home invasion, better schools, and neighborhood upkeep such as sidewalk repair and tree trimming, she also questioned why the Performing Arts Center continues to lose money every year. She said if elected she would make city officials more visible and responsive to residents. She would also support the Neighborhood Watch program. Concerning the city’s relationship with ABC, she said we should continue to work closely with them, She said she favors the 245 low and middle income apartment for seniors because it will also benefit the District and I support anything that will help our children’s education.
Mark Pulido , a nine year member of the ABC Board of Education, He said he has a proven track record of balancing budgets and asking tough questions and keeping our schools among the best in the nation. He said Cerritos is a wonderful city with show pieces such as the Performing Arts Center, the Towne Center, Cerritos Auto Mall, Cerritos Center and our parks. ‘However,” he said, “we mustn’t forget our neighborhoods,” He said with the ongoing budget crisis, its time to get back to the basics such as fixing our streets, sidewalks and city trees in front of our homes. He said, “We must take care of our neighborhoods.” He said we must also work closely with our small businesses that are the key to job creation and insuring the vitality of our city, turning to the city’s relationship with ABC he said as a member of the school board he would work to continue the partnership. Regarding Cuesta Villas he believes it is a project that demonstrates a partnership that will benefit both ABC and Cerritos.
Chris Fuentes described the upcoming election as a call for a more open and accessible government. He said the City Charter needs to be reviewed, noting it has only been modified once which limited council members to two consecutive terms. He described serving on the city council as a public service and should not be for self-service with compensation. Fuentes called for lower salaries and benefits employees receive upon retirement.
He also believes the Performing Arts Center should be run by a public-private partnership and to end its annual deficit. On the question of the ABC-City low to medium apartment complex for seniors he described it as a boondoggle and accused ABC and the city of collusion. He said the people should have had a say in its approval.
Grace Hu said she was running for city council because she feels her previous eight years on the council and her business experience can help the city during the current economic crisis. If elected she said she would be accessible to the residents at all times and promote economic development and a balanced budget. Hu would also strengthen public safety by supporting the sheriff, fire department and early response. She said she would also work to maintain the partnership with ABC and the city for better after school activities and student education. On the question of the apartments to be built where the district administrative offices now stand, she said 245 units were to big.
Harshad Mody said when everything looks good; it doesn’t mean everything is good. He said the city needs a new outlook so it can grow better and better. He said the Performing Arts Center needs new direction to eliminate its annual deficits. If elected he would make sure that each and every dollar was accounted for. “I will be your watchdog in city hall.” He also questioned the agreement between the city and school district on the apartments and asked how long it will take for the city to get a return on the project.
Bruce Barrows said if re-elected he would continue to work to maintain the health of Cerritos and maintain the quality of life we have come to expect from our city. He said he would work to protect Cerritos economy from additional monetary raids from the state and maintain financial stability. We need strong leadership and training to be effective. Responding to statements made by Council Candidate Chris Fuentes he said the official salary for council members is $14,000 and some change, not $25,000. He said the city manager earns about $240,000 and measured against other similar positions in California, his salary is way below the average. On the question of the city’s working relationship with ABC he said the city has a long and positive history with the district. Cuesta Villas was adjudicated in the courts and everything the city has done was ruled legal. He said the courts also ruled a vote of the people wasn’t necessary, although he favored one. “It’s a good project, one that will benefit the school district and Cerritos.
Mayor Joseph Cho said in 2009 he had proposed to the city council a commission or committee be appointed to look into the replacement the two Redevelopment Agency programs which are scheduled to be phased out in 2013 and 2018. He said if this had been done, Cerritos would be in a better position to meet the governor’s proposal to end all Redevelopment Agencies by July. He also said approximately 30 percent of the city’s population are seniors and Cerritos need a new approach to meet the needs and changing demographics of the city. “We need to recognize the changes in our city and move forward.” He favors a continuance of the close working relationship with ABC and also supports Cuesta Villas. He said this would be the fourth Cerritos housing project build with Redevelopment Funds. “The difference is with this project the city will give the profits to the school district to help with our children’s education.
Kiran Rami said she has found when walking the precincts and meeting Cerritos residents that they have the same concerns that she has. They include home invasion, better schools, and neighborhood upkeep such as sidewalk repair and tree trimming, she also questioned why the Performing Arts Center continues to lose money every year. She said if elected she would make city officials more visible and responsive to residents. She would also support the Neighborhood Watch program. Concerning the city’s relationship with ABC, she said we should continue to work closely with them, She said she favors the 245 low and middle income apartment for seniors because it will also benefit the District and I support anything that will help our children’s education.
Mark Pulido , a nine year member of the ABC Board of Education, He said he has a proven track record of balancing budgets and asking tough questions and keeping our schools among the best in the nation. He said Cerritos is a wonderful city with show pieces such as the Performing Arts Center, the Towne Center, Cerritos Auto Mall, Cerritos Center and our parks. ‘However,” he said, “we mustn’t forget our neighborhoods,” He said with the ongoing budget crisis, its time to get back to the basics such as fixing our streets, sidewalks and city trees in front of our homes. He said, “We must take care of our neighborhoods.” He said we must also work closely with our small businesses that are the key to job creation and insuring the vitality of our city, turning to the city’s relationship with ABC he said as a member of the school board he would work to continue the partnership. Regarding Cuesta Villas he believes it is a project that demonstrates a partnership that will benefit both ABC and Cerritos.
Chris Fuentes described the upcoming election as a call for a more open and accessible government. He said the City Charter needs to be reviewed, noting it has only been modified once which limited council members to two consecutive terms. He described serving on the city council as a public service and should not be for self-service with compensation. Fuentes called for lower salaries and benefits employees receive upon retirement.
He also believes the Performing Arts Center should be run by a public-private partnership and to end its annual deficit. On the question of the ABC-City low to medium apartment complex for seniors he described it as a boondoggle and accused ABC and the city of collusion. He said the people should have had a say in its approval.
Grace Hu said she was running for city council because she feels her previous eight years on the council and her business experience can help the city during the current economic crisis. If elected she said she would be accessible to the residents at all times and promote economic development and a balanced budget. Hu would also strengthen public safety by supporting the sheriff, fire department and early response. She said she would also work to maintain the partnership with ABC and the city for better after school activities and student education. On the question of the apartments to be built where the district administrative offices now stand, she said 245 units were to big.
Harshad Mody said when everything looks good; it doesn’t mean everything is good. He said the city needs a new outlook so it can grow better and better. He said the Performing Arts Center needs new direction to eliminate its annual deficits. If elected he would make sure that each and every dollar was accounted for. “I will be your watchdog in city hall.” He also questioned the agreement between the city and school district on the apartments and asked how long it will take for the city to get a return on the project.
Bruce Barrows said if re-elected he would continue to work to maintain the health of Cerritos and maintain the quality of life we have come to expect from our city. He said he would work to protect Cerritos economy from additional monetary raids from the state and maintain financial stability. We need strong leadership and training to be effective. Responding to statements made by Council Candidate Chris Fuentes he said the official salary for council members is $14,000 and some change, not $25,000. He said the city manager earns about $240,000 and measured against other similar positions in California, his salary is way below the average. On the question of the city’s working relationship with ABC he said the city has a long and positive history with the district. Cuesta Villas was adjudicated in the courts and everything the city has done was ruled legal. He said the courts also ruled a vote of the people wasn’t necessary, although he favored one. “It’s a good project, one that will benefit the school district and Cerritos.
Mayor Joseph Cho said in 2009 he had proposed to the city council a commission or committee be appointed to look into the replacement the two Redevelopment Agency programs which are scheduled to be phased out in 2013 and 2018. He said if this had been done, Cerritos would be in a better position to meet the governor’s proposal to end all Redevelopment Agencies by July. He also said approximately 30 percent of the city’s population are seniors and Cerritos need a new approach to meet the needs and changing demographics of the city. “We need to recognize the changes in our city and move forward.” He favors a continuance of the close working relationship with ABC and also supports Cuesta Villas. He said this would be the fourth Cerritos housing project build with Redevelopment Funds. “The difference is with this project the city will give the profits to the school district to help with our children’s education.
Donation pays for drug sniffing dogs at Artesia High School
A donation of $1,500 was presented to Artesia High Principal Sergio Garcia by community leader Mary Lou Landes at the Feb. 3 meeting of the Hawaiian Gardens City Council to pay for drug sniffing dogs. In making the presentation, Landes said "thankfully no drugs were found on the campus by the dogs. In one classroom,” she added, “ the students said they felt safe on the school campus because there were no drugs or gangs there, now they are even more reassured by the presence of the drug sniffing dogs."
Moskowitz Foundation donates $5000 to LASD Womens Running Team
By Larry Caballero
Irving I. Moskowitz Foundation Representative Sal Flores presented a $5000 check to Sheriff Lee Baca and 2011 Womens Running Team Coach and participants Feb. 15 at County of Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Headquarters.
The 120-mile Baker-to-Las Vegas Challenge Cup Relay started in 1981 and draws runners from law enforcement agencies throughout the world. It is the largest law enforcement event of its kind.
Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department’s 30 runners hope to break the 1991 record of 15 hours, 35 minutes 23 seconds. Sheriff Baca thanked the Moskowitz Foundation for its generous donation and said, “This event encourages physical fitness and fosters camaraderie between everyone involved.”
CIF-SS DIVISIONAL BASKETBALL PLAYOFF PREVIEWS
Valley Christian girls basketball gets top four seed, receives first round bye
By Loren Kopff
Editor’s note: Some of the area teams may have already been eliminated by today.
The defending California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section Division V-AA runner ups in girls basketball, Valley Christian, was rewarded for another strong season by claiming the fourth seed in Division IV-A as the winter playoffs began this past Wednesday for the boys and on Feb. 17 for the girls. Listed below is a preview of seven of the eight opening round basketball games.
• BOYS BASKETBALL
• DIVISION II-A
• Indio (17-9, tied for third place, Desert Valley League) @ #7 Gahr (19-7, second place, San Gabriel Valley League)
• Probable starters for Gahr: Sr. Davon Potts (20.2 points per game), Sr. Javonte Sales (13.2 ppg.), Jr. Michael Alvarez (7.0 ppg.), Jr. John Benson (5.4 ppg.), So. Brian Nebo (6.2 ppg.)
• The Gladiators began the season as the second ranked team in the division and was in line for one of the top four spots in the middle of January. But a three-point home loss to Lynwood and a two-point home loss to Downey dropped the team to seventh. Still, it’s going to be a competitive road to the finals for whoever makes it there.
• “It’s a pretty tough division,” said Gahr head coach Rick Roper. “Not to look past Indio, but Ayala is playing real well right now. It would be an awful tough game. There are a lot of tough teams but I think it’s pretty wide open too.”
• Gahr has been riding the hot hands of Potts and junior Anthony Martinez, who had been averaging 14 points until getting injured on Feb. 2 at Dominguez. But the Gladiators are stockpiled with talent and should get by the Rajahs. Johnny Flores leads Indo in scoring with a 24.4 average. Indio began the season on a four-game losing streak and at one point was 3-7. A win would see Gahr most likely playing 10th ranked Ayala tonight.
• “Since [Martinez] has been gone, I’ve been talking about how everyone has to step up,” Roper said. “We’re going to have to tighten up our defense. The plays where he had the ball, someone else will just have the ball and will have to make good decisions.”
• Norwalk (15-12, third place, Suburban League) @ #14 Camarillo (second place, Pacific View League)
• Probable starters for Norwalk: Sr. Manuel Castaneda (18.0 ppg.), Sr. Cammie Lewis (12.7 ppg.), Jr. Angel Arevalo (5.7 ppg.), Jr. Armando Holguin (1.8 ppg.) Jr. Terrence Traylor (12.0 ppg.)
• After hosting a pair of playoff games last season, the Lancers hit the road against the Scorpions on the western edge of the Conejo Valley. The opponent came as little surprise to head coach Jim Webster as he his making his third straight trip to the playoffs.
• “We kind of narrowed it down to three teams and Camarillo was definitely there because we knew they were going to be a second place team,” he said.
• Norwalk has been led by the big three of Castaneda, Lewis and Traylor all season long. Lewis had a pair of 20+ scoring games in the past three games. Camarillo split its first eight games while Norwalk was never more than two games below .500 all season.
• “We were hoping we could split with Mayfair but then Artesia was going to be tough and Cerritos was going to be tough,” Webster said. “We were hoping to get eight wins again [in league] and we came close to that. We’re kind of where we thought we would be.”
• A Norwalk win would mean a second round home match-up tonight against third ranked Foothill barring a major upset by Baldwin Park.
• DIVISION III-A
• Artesia (12-13, fourth place, Suburban League) @ #7 Palm Desert (17-8, second place, Desert Valley League)
• Probable starters for Artesia: Sr. Patrick Hart (8.4 ppg.), Sr. Micah Kahawaii (15.9 ppg.), Jr. Santiago Fajardo (8.1 ppg. in 12 games), Jr. James Floyd (5.7 ppg.), Jr. Brandon Hunt (17.8 ppg.)
• The Pioneers lost their first four games of the season but turned it around when it mattered the most and survived a tough league season that saw the team go from 3-1 to 3-5 to 6-6. Fajardo, slated to be the top returning player, was seriously injured in a car accident in late November but returned just in time for league action. Hunt and Kahawaii have picked up the slack in his absence through the first 13 games.
• The Aztecs had a subpar non league slate despite opening the season with seven straight wins but went 10-2 in the Desert Valley League. The winner of this contest will draw the victor of the Rio Mesa-Torrance game.
• South Torrance (12-14, tied for fifth place, Pioneer League) @ #9 Cerritos (15-12, second place, Suburban League)
• Probable starters for Cerritos: Sr. Phillip Kim (9.9 ppg.), Sr. Chimdi Nnoli (8.1 ppg.), Sr. Bryan Williams 8.2 ppg.), Sr. Aaron Wright 18.1 ppg.), Jr. Terrence Fulton (16.6 ppg.)
• For the second straight season, the Dons were rewarded with a first round home game. Cerritos is seeking a berth in the second round for the first time in well over 10 years. Like Artesia and Norwalk, the Dons had an up and down season and ended the with a 3-3 mark over the past two and a half weeks.
• “We just play and we’ll see,” said Cerritos head coach Jonathan Watanabe. “I’ve been happy with my draw before and every time I’ve been happy with my draw, it doesn’t turn out too well.”
• The Dons utilized a much smaller team in terms of numbers than in recent years but got stellar play from their starting crew. Watanabe said that Nnoli, in his first year at the varsity level, is the most improved player. Cerritos scored at least 70 points in seven league games.
• “I still say this is one of the most talented teams I’ve coached,” Watanabe said. “It’s just a matter of can we put it together and become one of the best teams.”
• The Spartans went 3-7 in league action. The winner will face either Diamond Ranch or eighth ranked Calabasas tonight.
• GIRLS BASKETBALL
• DIVISION III-AA
• #15 Gahr (13-13, third place, San Gabriel Valley League) @ Los Amigos (16-8, Garden Grove League co-champions)
• Probable starters for Gahr: Sr. Symone Brown (20.2 ppg.), Jr. Zaneta Agu (3.6 ppg.), Jr. Alii Salone (7.0 ppg.), So. Jasmine Gates (5.5 ppg.), So. Jewelyn Sawyer (14.1 ppg.)
• Even though Gahr’s opponent claimed a share of the Garden Grove League, it should get past the Lobos. The Gladiators played a tough non league schedule that included Inglewood, Long Beach Jordan, Long Beach Wilson, North Torrance, Valley Christian and Whitney, among others. Brown and Sawyer have been the top two players but Salone has the ability to reach double figures and Gates had a solid month of December. Cindy Guerrero (19.6 ppg.) leads the Lobos. The winner will play second seeded Serra, the defending Division V-AA champion on Saturday.
• DIVISION III-A
• #16 John Glenn (19-8, second place, Suburban League) @ Northview (16-10, second place, Valley Vista League)
• Probable starters for Glenn: Sr. Arlene Gomez (9.4 ppg.), Sr. Sharae Moten (10.7 ppg.), Sr. Mariam Perez (2.4 ppg.), Sr. Sarai Robles (9.3 ppg.), Jr. Kimberly Orozco (4.9 ppg.)
• The Lady Eagles had one of their finest seasons but despite being a top 16 team, will be on the road against the Vikings. Glenn has been winning games with basically six players who have scored all but only 10 of Glenn’s points all season. The first player off the bench is junior Moshannae Summerise who can crash the boards. Claudia Ramirez led Northview with a 10.6 ppg. scoring average. Both teams went 9-3 in their leagues but the Vikings went through a six-game losing streak in December. The winner will face top ranked Orange Lutheran.
• DIVISION IV-A
• #13 Santa Ynez (14-11, Los Padres League co-champions) @ #4 Valley Christian (17-9, Olympic League champions)
• Probable starters for Valley Christian: Sr. Jelissa Holder (9.5 ppg.), Sr. Jamie Perez (8.0 ppg.), Jr. Nia Archer (3.2 ppg.), Jr. Kari Korver (25.1 ppg.), Jr. Lianna Tanis (2.8 ppg.)
• After getting a first round bye, the Lady Crusaders will get underway on Saturday. Valley Christian has been ranked anywhere from fourth to sixth all season and is on a collision course with top ranked Oaks Christian for a possible semifinal meeting. But first, the Lady Crusaders must get past the Pirates, which went 10-2 in league action. V.C. has been led by Korver, who has accounted for 45 percent of the team’s scoring. Santa Ynez is led by Hailey King (14.8 ppg.). A win by V.C. will put the team in Wednesday’s quarterfinal game against either fifth ranked Duarte or 12th ranked Marymount.
By Loren Kopff
Editor’s note: Some of the area teams may have already been eliminated by today.
The defending California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section Division V-AA runner ups in girls basketball, Valley Christian, was rewarded for another strong season by claiming the fourth seed in Division IV-A as the winter playoffs began this past Wednesday for the boys and on Feb. 17 for the girls. Listed below is a preview of seven of the eight opening round basketball games.
• BOYS BASKETBALL
• DIVISION II-A
• Indio (17-9, tied for third place, Desert Valley League) @ #7 Gahr (19-7, second place, San Gabriel Valley League)
• Probable starters for Gahr: Sr. Davon Potts (20.2 points per game), Sr. Javonte Sales (13.2 ppg.), Jr. Michael Alvarez (7.0 ppg.), Jr. John Benson (5.4 ppg.), So. Brian Nebo (6.2 ppg.)
• The Gladiators began the season as the second ranked team in the division and was in line for one of the top four spots in the middle of January. But a three-point home loss to Lynwood and a two-point home loss to Downey dropped the team to seventh. Still, it’s going to be a competitive road to the finals for whoever makes it there.
• “It’s a pretty tough division,” said Gahr head coach Rick Roper. “Not to look past Indio, but Ayala is playing real well right now. It would be an awful tough game. There are a lot of tough teams but I think it’s pretty wide open too.”
• Gahr has been riding the hot hands of Potts and junior Anthony Martinez, who had been averaging 14 points until getting injured on Feb. 2 at Dominguez. But the Gladiators are stockpiled with talent and should get by the Rajahs. Johnny Flores leads Indo in scoring with a 24.4 average. Indio began the season on a four-game losing streak and at one point was 3-7. A win would see Gahr most likely playing 10th ranked Ayala tonight.
• “Since [Martinez] has been gone, I’ve been talking about how everyone has to step up,” Roper said. “We’re going to have to tighten up our defense. The plays where he had the ball, someone else will just have the ball and will have to make good decisions.”
• Norwalk (15-12, third place, Suburban League) @ #14 Camarillo (second place, Pacific View League)
• Probable starters for Norwalk: Sr. Manuel Castaneda (18.0 ppg.), Sr. Cammie Lewis (12.7 ppg.), Jr. Angel Arevalo (5.7 ppg.), Jr. Armando Holguin (1.8 ppg.) Jr. Terrence Traylor (12.0 ppg.)
• After hosting a pair of playoff games last season, the Lancers hit the road against the Scorpions on the western edge of the Conejo Valley. The opponent came as little surprise to head coach Jim Webster as he his making his third straight trip to the playoffs.
• “We kind of narrowed it down to three teams and Camarillo was definitely there because we knew they were going to be a second place team,” he said.
• Norwalk has been led by the big three of Castaneda, Lewis and Traylor all season long. Lewis had a pair of 20+ scoring games in the past three games. Camarillo split its first eight games while Norwalk was never more than two games below .500 all season.
• “We were hoping we could split with Mayfair but then Artesia was going to be tough and Cerritos was going to be tough,” Webster said. “We were hoping to get eight wins again [in league] and we came close to that. We’re kind of where we thought we would be.”
• A Norwalk win would mean a second round home match-up tonight against third ranked Foothill barring a major upset by Baldwin Park.
• DIVISION III-A
• Artesia (12-13, fourth place, Suburban League) @ #7 Palm Desert (17-8, second place, Desert Valley League)
• Probable starters for Artesia: Sr. Patrick Hart (8.4 ppg.), Sr. Micah Kahawaii (15.9 ppg.), Jr. Santiago Fajardo (8.1 ppg. in 12 games), Jr. James Floyd (5.7 ppg.), Jr. Brandon Hunt (17.8 ppg.)
• The Pioneers lost their first four games of the season but turned it around when it mattered the most and survived a tough league season that saw the team go from 3-1 to 3-5 to 6-6. Fajardo, slated to be the top returning player, was seriously injured in a car accident in late November but returned just in time for league action. Hunt and Kahawaii have picked up the slack in his absence through the first 13 games.
• The Aztecs had a subpar non league slate despite opening the season with seven straight wins but went 10-2 in the Desert Valley League. The winner of this contest will draw the victor of the Rio Mesa-Torrance game.
• South Torrance (12-14, tied for fifth place, Pioneer League) @ #9 Cerritos (15-12, second place, Suburban League)
• Probable starters for Cerritos: Sr. Phillip Kim (9.9 ppg.), Sr. Chimdi Nnoli (8.1 ppg.), Sr. Bryan Williams 8.2 ppg.), Sr. Aaron Wright 18.1 ppg.), Jr. Terrence Fulton (16.6 ppg.)
• For the second straight season, the Dons were rewarded with a first round home game. Cerritos is seeking a berth in the second round for the first time in well over 10 years. Like Artesia and Norwalk, the Dons had an up and down season and ended the with a 3-3 mark over the past two and a half weeks.
• “We just play and we’ll see,” said Cerritos head coach Jonathan Watanabe. “I’ve been happy with my draw before and every time I’ve been happy with my draw, it doesn’t turn out too well.”
• The Dons utilized a much smaller team in terms of numbers than in recent years but got stellar play from their starting crew. Watanabe said that Nnoli, in his first year at the varsity level, is the most improved player. Cerritos scored at least 70 points in seven league games.
• “I still say this is one of the most talented teams I’ve coached,” Watanabe said. “It’s just a matter of can we put it together and become one of the best teams.”
• The Spartans went 3-7 in league action. The winner will face either Diamond Ranch or eighth ranked Calabasas tonight.
• GIRLS BASKETBALL
• DIVISION III-AA
• #15 Gahr (13-13, third place, San Gabriel Valley League) @ Los Amigos (16-8, Garden Grove League co-champions)
• Probable starters for Gahr: Sr. Symone Brown (20.2 ppg.), Jr. Zaneta Agu (3.6 ppg.), Jr. Alii Salone (7.0 ppg.), So. Jasmine Gates (5.5 ppg.), So. Jewelyn Sawyer (14.1 ppg.)
• Even though Gahr’s opponent claimed a share of the Garden Grove League, it should get past the Lobos. The Gladiators played a tough non league schedule that included Inglewood, Long Beach Jordan, Long Beach Wilson, North Torrance, Valley Christian and Whitney, among others. Brown and Sawyer have been the top two players but Salone has the ability to reach double figures and Gates had a solid month of December. Cindy Guerrero (19.6 ppg.) leads the Lobos. The winner will play second seeded Serra, the defending Division V-AA champion on Saturday.
• DIVISION III-A
• #16 John Glenn (19-8, second place, Suburban League) @ Northview (16-10, second place, Valley Vista League)
• Probable starters for Glenn: Sr. Arlene Gomez (9.4 ppg.), Sr. Sharae Moten (10.7 ppg.), Sr. Mariam Perez (2.4 ppg.), Sr. Sarai Robles (9.3 ppg.), Jr. Kimberly Orozco (4.9 ppg.)
• The Lady Eagles had one of their finest seasons but despite being a top 16 team, will be on the road against the Vikings. Glenn has been winning games with basically six players who have scored all but only 10 of Glenn’s points all season. The first player off the bench is junior Moshannae Summerise who can crash the boards. Claudia Ramirez led Northview with a 10.6 ppg. scoring average. Both teams went 9-3 in their leagues but the Vikings went through a six-game losing streak in December. The winner will face top ranked Orange Lutheran.
• DIVISION IV-A
• #13 Santa Ynez (14-11, Los Padres League co-champions) @ #4 Valley Christian (17-9, Olympic League champions)
• Probable starters for Valley Christian: Sr. Jelissa Holder (9.5 ppg.), Sr. Jamie Perez (8.0 ppg.), Jr. Nia Archer (3.2 ppg.), Jr. Kari Korver (25.1 ppg.), Jr. Lianna Tanis (2.8 ppg.)
• After getting a first round bye, the Lady Crusaders will get underway on Saturday. Valley Christian has been ranked anywhere from fourth to sixth all season and is on a collision course with top ranked Oaks Christian for a possible semifinal meeting. But first, the Lady Crusaders must get past the Pirates, which went 10-2 in league action. V.C. has been led by Korver, who has accounted for 45 percent of the team’s scoring. Santa Ynez is led by Hailey King (14.8 ppg.). A win by V.C. will put the team in Wednesday’s quarterfinal game against either fifth ranked Duarte or 12th ranked Marymount.
CIF-SOUTHERN SECTION BOYS BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS
Fulton, Wright propel Cerritos into unchartered territory, Dons blast South Torrance
By Loren Kopff
For a change, the Cerritos boys basketball team won’t be saddled with another first round loss in the California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section playoffs. For the first time since 1997, the Dons will be playing a second round contest.
• Junior Terrence Fulton scored a game-high 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while senior Aaron Wright added 20 points and 13 boards as the Dons cruised to a 78-59 victory over visiting South Torrance this past Wednesday in a Division III-A first round game. The ninth ranked Dons (16-12) will visit eighth ranked Calabasas tonight. The Coyotes knocked off Diamond Ranch 82-52 this past Wednesday.
• “Even through the end of the game when we had a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter, I felt like it was a five-point lead just because of some of the stuff we had been through this year and also over the past 14 years,” said Cerritos head coach Jonathan Watanabe. “To move past the first round feels pretty good.”
• With the Spartans up 8-7 midway through the first quarter, the Dons scored the next seven points to take the lead for good. Fulton was pacing the team as he scored nine points in the opening stanza which ended with the hosts up 18-15. Cerritos began to pull away in the second quarter, outscoring the at-large team from the Pioneer League 17-10. Of the 27 shots Cerritos attempted in the first half, 15 of them were from three-point territory.
• But the dagger in the heart came early in the third quarter when the Dons went on an 11-0 run to lead 48-30 with 3:32 left in the stanza following a three-pointer from Fulton. He would score 11 points and have six rebounds in the quarter. Wright scored seven points, pulled down four boards and had two assists in the quarter as well.
• “I think the biggest this was he played defense,” Watanabe said of Fulton. “At the end of the game, we were giving up some easy buckets and it didn’t help. But the fact that he said he was going to play some defense and grab some rebounds helped a lot.”
• The lead would grow to as many as 28 points late in the fourth quarter before Watanabe put in his least played reserves plus two more who were called up from the junior varsity squad. Senior Bryan Williams added 16 points and six rebounds as Cerritos shot 43 percent from the field and took 28 shots from downtown.
• In 1997, Cerritos defeated Edison in the first round before falling to Glendora in the next round. It also advanced to the second round in 1995 and 1991.
• “This is one of the biggest [wins],” Watanabe said. “Even some of the Gahr games…those are nice rivalry games but as far as having meaning and significance, this has got to be the most significant win, at least over the past 10 years as a coach for me. We went through the season with nine guys and this team just has great chemistry.”
By Loren Kopff
For a change, the Cerritos boys basketball team won’t be saddled with another first round loss in the California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section playoffs. For the first time since 1997, the Dons will be playing a second round contest.
• Junior Terrence Fulton scored a game-high 25 points and grabbed 11 rebounds while senior Aaron Wright added 20 points and 13 boards as the Dons cruised to a 78-59 victory over visiting South Torrance this past Wednesday in a Division III-A first round game. The ninth ranked Dons (16-12) will visit eighth ranked Calabasas tonight. The Coyotes knocked off Diamond Ranch 82-52 this past Wednesday.
• “Even through the end of the game when we had a 20-point lead in the fourth quarter, I felt like it was a five-point lead just because of some of the stuff we had been through this year and also over the past 14 years,” said Cerritos head coach Jonathan Watanabe. “To move past the first round feels pretty good.”
• With the Spartans up 8-7 midway through the first quarter, the Dons scored the next seven points to take the lead for good. Fulton was pacing the team as he scored nine points in the opening stanza which ended with the hosts up 18-15. Cerritos began to pull away in the second quarter, outscoring the at-large team from the Pioneer League 17-10. Of the 27 shots Cerritos attempted in the first half, 15 of them were from three-point territory.
• But the dagger in the heart came early in the third quarter when the Dons went on an 11-0 run to lead 48-30 with 3:32 left in the stanza following a three-pointer from Fulton. He would score 11 points and have six rebounds in the quarter. Wright scored seven points, pulled down four boards and had two assists in the quarter as well.
• “I think the biggest this was he played defense,” Watanabe said of Fulton. “At the end of the game, we were giving up some easy buckets and it didn’t help. But the fact that he said he was going to play some defense and grab some rebounds helped a lot.”
• The lead would grow to as many as 28 points late in the fourth quarter before Watanabe put in his least played reserves plus two more who were called up from the junior varsity squad. Senior Bryan Williams added 16 points and six rebounds as Cerritos shot 43 percent from the field and took 28 shots from downtown.
• In 1997, Cerritos defeated Edison in the first round before falling to Glendora in the next round. It also advanced to the second round in 1995 and 1991.
• “This is one of the biggest [wins],” Watanabe said. “Even some of the Gahr games…those are nice rivalry games but as far as having meaning and significance, this has got to be the most significant win, at least over the past 10 years as a coach for me. We went through the season with nine guys and this team just has great chemistry.”
CIF-SOUTHERN SECTION BOYS SOCCER PLAYOFFS
Depleted Valley Christian falls in wild card game
By Loren Kopff
What began as one of the fastest starts the Valley Christian boys soccer program has seen ended in a blink of the eye this past Wednesday. Without the services of their leading scorer, senior Josh Sutherlin, the Crusaders couldn’t keep up with San Luis Obispo in a California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section Division V wild card game.
• The Crusaders allowed three straight goals and lost to the Tigers 3-1 on a gloomy, overcast day at Crusader Field. V.C. ends the season at 15-6-1. V.C. took 13 shots on goal but were called for being offside another seven times, thus being denied more scoring opportunities.
• “We played good soccer but we had the same problem,” said V.C. head coach Chris Becher. “We don’t score goals. We probably had three times as many scoring opportunities as them and we just didn’t score.”
• After falling behind five minutes into the game, the hosts got on the board in the 21st minute when sophomore midfielder John Lee found senior midfielder John McTigue who knocked in his 11th goal of the season. But the Tigers, who were riding a seven-game winning streak entering the playoffs, reclaimed the lead eight minutes later when Jordan Knauer scored off a pass from Matthew Connely.
• The Crusaders, who finished third in the Olympic League, had a chance to tie the game shortly before halftime but a header from Lee went above the crossbar.
• The Tigers dominated the early portion of the second half and iced the game in the 55th minute when Connely assisted on a Trevor James goal. That’s when V.C. picked up its intensity and made more attacks towards the San Luis Obispo goal. In the 67th minute, a point blank shot off the head of senior midfielder Tyler Boer was saved. Four minutes later, Boer missed a deflected shot at the right post and tried to stretch to tap it in before it was cleared out. Finally, McTigue was turned away on a one on one opportunity with six minutes remaining.
• “It’s that need for urgency you can’t coach,” Becher said. “I think our guys work hard but it’s whatever that final third is that scores goals and senses that urgency that lacked today. I was happy with the effort but frustrated that we couldn’t score goals.
• V.C. began the season winning 12 of its first 15 games but beginning with a 2-1 loss to Maranatha on Jan. 14, ended the season winning just three games. To make matters worse, Sutherlin, who had scored 15 goals, broke his arm three weeks ago and senior goalkeeper Matt Vanderduessen missed the final two weeks because of a recurring injury.
• “The big thing tactically was we were playing a 4-5-1 and Josh was the lone striker and we didn’t have that kind of strength up top in a 4-4-2,” Becher said. “It opened a lot in the midfield.”
• Becher added that the team wasn’t capitalizing on opportunities following the winter break which eventually led to the late season slide.
By Loren Kopff
What began as one of the fastest starts the Valley Christian boys soccer program has seen ended in a blink of the eye this past Wednesday. Without the services of their leading scorer, senior Josh Sutherlin, the Crusaders couldn’t keep up with San Luis Obispo in a California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section Division V wild card game.
• The Crusaders allowed three straight goals and lost to the Tigers 3-1 on a gloomy, overcast day at Crusader Field. V.C. ends the season at 15-6-1. V.C. took 13 shots on goal but were called for being offside another seven times, thus being denied more scoring opportunities.
• “We played good soccer but we had the same problem,” said V.C. head coach Chris Becher. “We don’t score goals. We probably had three times as many scoring opportunities as them and we just didn’t score.”
• After falling behind five minutes into the game, the hosts got on the board in the 21st minute when sophomore midfielder John Lee found senior midfielder John McTigue who knocked in his 11th goal of the season. But the Tigers, who were riding a seven-game winning streak entering the playoffs, reclaimed the lead eight minutes later when Jordan Knauer scored off a pass from Matthew Connely.
• The Crusaders, who finished third in the Olympic League, had a chance to tie the game shortly before halftime but a header from Lee went above the crossbar.
• The Tigers dominated the early portion of the second half and iced the game in the 55th minute when Connely assisted on a Trevor James goal. That’s when V.C. picked up its intensity and made more attacks towards the San Luis Obispo goal. In the 67th minute, a point blank shot off the head of senior midfielder Tyler Boer was saved. Four minutes later, Boer missed a deflected shot at the right post and tried to stretch to tap it in before it was cleared out. Finally, McTigue was turned away on a one on one opportunity with six minutes remaining.
• “It’s that need for urgency you can’t coach,” Becher said. “I think our guys work hard but it’s whatever that final third is that scores goals and senses that urgency that lacked today. I was happy with the effort but frustrated that we couldn’t score goals.
• V.C. began the season winning 12 of its first 15 games but beginning with a 2-1 loss to Maranatha on Jan. 14, ended the season winning just three games. To make matters worse, Sutherlin, who had scored 15 goals, broke his arm three weeks ago and senior goalkeeper Matt Vanderduessen missed the final two weeks because of a recurring injury.
• “The big thing tactically was we were playing a 4-5-1 and Josh was the lone striker and we didn’t have that kind of strength up top in a 4-4-2,” Becher said. “It opened a lot in the midfield.”
• Becher added that the team wasn’t capitalizing on opportunities following the winter break which eventually led to the late season slide.
RE: Gahr Pen Pal program
I was so delighted when I picked up the Los Cerritos News from my driveway because there, on page 9, was the article written by Ivan Kenneth Chau from Gahr high school and photos of our senior members with their pen pals. I have coordinated this event for the last three years with the Arts and Technology teachers at Gahr High School and with 'Da Hawaii Seniors Club. It has been a marvelous experience on both ends...students and seniors. Everything that was written about Mrs. Kerry Grover is true...such an outstanding and efficient teacher with a marvelous sense of humor and personality!
I have had three pen pals, one each year, each with a different backgrounds and life objectives. I have learned about their likes and dislikes, their ambitions, their approach to life and they have learned about me and my culture and experiences.
Notwithstanding, my club members rise to the occasion on every count...they participate, they bring food and they entertain...as long as they don't have to wear a tuxedo or prom gown!
A great program, a great learning experience and looking forward to next year!
I have had three pen pals, one each year, each with a different backgrounds and life objectives. I have learned about their likes and dislikes, their ambitions, their approach to life and they have learned about me and my culture and experiences.
Notwithstanding, my club members rise to the occasion on every count...they participate, they bring food and they entertain...as long as they don't have to wear a tuxedo or prom gown!
A great program, a great learning experience and looking forward to next year!
R.I.S.E. program
Once again I am writing to report on the status of the proposed volunteer reading program for the schools and children here in Hawaiian Gardens. I want to thank many of you who have responded and expressed your interest in participating. As I stated in a prior message our intent is to partner with the ABC School Districts R.I.S.E Program (Reading Involves School-wide Employees) and thereby encouage students to read and learn. The R.I.S.E program is designed to bring community & business members into the classroom to promote improved reading and learning skills that will inspire students to learn the importance of reading for a successful future.
As part of the program the School District will conduct an orientation meeting in the Hawaiian Gardens Recreation Center Complex 21815 Pioneer Blvd. on Friday February 25, at 10:30 am. Please forward this info to anyone think may be interested in participating.
As many of you may know our city motto is "Our Youth Our Future" please join me in helping to give our children the tools they need to have the future they deserve.
Mike Gomez
Mayor, City of Hawaiian Gardens
As part of the program the School District will conduct an orientation meeting in the Hawaiian Gardens Recreation Center Complex 21815 Pioneer Blvd. on Friday February 25, at 10:30 am. Please forward this info to anyone think may be interested in participating.
As many of you may know our city motto is "Our Youth Our Future" please join me in helping to give our children the tools they need to have the future they deserve.
Mike Gomez
Mayor, City of Hawaiian Gardens
Linda Sánchez Statement on GOP Spending Bill
Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez joined other Democrats in adressing the potentially devastating consequences the Republican Spending Bill will have on the country’s ability to out-innovate and out-build our global competitors.
“There is no question that the number one priority of this Congress should be jobs. And we should be creating jobs in this country, not watching helplessly as they continue to go overseas--jobs that we are losing to countries who understand the need to invest in the future. We can’t expect to be competitive in a global economy if we don't prioritize American innovation.
“Republicans want to cut $2.5 billion from the National Institutes of Health budget. They want to cut $1.4 billion in science and energy research towards clean energy. They want to cut 20,000 researchers supported by the National Science Foundation.
“We have the hardest working people in the world, but the short-sighted cuts Republicans want to make threaten future job growth. We must foster opportunity, not kill it.
“There is no question that the number one priority of this Congress should be jobs. And we should be creating jobs in this country, not watching helplessly as they continue to go overseas--jobs that we are losing to countries who understand the need to invest in the future. We can’t expect to be competitive in a global economy if we don't prioritize American innovation.
“Republicans want to cut $2.5 billion from the National Institutes of Health budget. They want to cut $1.4 billion in science and energy research towards clean energy. They want to cut 20,000 researchers supported by the National Science Foundation.
“We have the hardest working people in the world, but the short-sighted cuts Republicans want to make threaten future job growth. We must foster opportunity, not kill it.
Spamalot
Fri., March 4, 8:00 p.m.;
Sat., March 5, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
and Sun., March 6, 2:00 p.m.
Spamalot “raises silliness to an art form!” hailed The Sunday Times. The Tony winner for “Best Musical” makes a three-day run at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA). Tickets range from $67-$28 and are available at the CCPA Ticket Office, www.cerritoscenter.com, or by calling (562) 467-8818. This show contains strong language and adult themes and is recommended for mature audiences only.
A parody of the King Arthur legend and the world of Broadway, SPAMALOT is “bloody fantastic. Gorgeously silly!” cheered the New York Post. Based on the 1975 classic comedy film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the musical production debuted on Broadway in 2005 and took the theater world by storm with 14 Tony nominations and a win for “Best Musical of the Year.” The Los Angeles Times raved: “Poking fun is indeed the driving engine of the show.” The New Yorker proclaimed it a “no-holds barred smash hit.” The New York Times applauded “the celebration of inanity,” attributing the production’s success to its “shrewd idiocy, artful tackiness and wide-eyed impiety.”
For tickets or more information on Spamalot at the CCPA, call (562) 467-8818 or go to www.cerritoscenter.com.
Sat., March 5, 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
and Sun., March 6, 2:00 p.m.
Spamalot “raises silliness to an art form!” hailed The Sunday Times. The Tony winner for “Best Musical” makes a three-day run at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA). Tickets range from $67-$28 and are available at the CCPA Ticket Office, www.cerritoscenter.com, or by calling (562) 467-8818. This show contains strong language and adult themes and is recommended for mature audiences only.
A parody of the King Arthur legend and the world of Broadway, SPAMALOT is “bloody fantastic. Gorgeously silly!” cheered the New York Post. Based on the 1975 classic comedy film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the musical production debuted on Broadway in 2005 and took the theater world by storm with 14 Tony nominations and a win for “Best Musical of the Year.” The Los Angeles Times raved: “Poking fun is indeed the driving engine of the show.” The New Yorker proclaimed it a “no-holds barred smash hit.” The New York Times applauded “the celebration of inanity,” attributing the production’s success to its “shrewd idiocy, artful tackiness and wide-eyed impiety.”
For tickets or more information on Spamalot at the CCPA, call (562) 467-8818 or go to www.cerritoscenter.com.
Garrison Keillor Charms Cerritos
By Glen Creason
Locals were lucky once again to sit at the red running shoed feet of the master storyteller Garrison Keillor at the Performing Arts Center over the weekend. Anyone who has ever held a microphone in front of a group of any size must bow down to this wonderful humorist, who in my humble opinion is the foremost public speaker in the land. Even the wonderful Bill Cosby doesn’t have Keillor’s versatility who sang, told stories and recited great poetry in this superb two hour banquet of the spoken word. After struggling with some health issues a couple of years ago that threatened his performance schedules Keillor is back and better than ever, this time with musical accompaniment ala the Prairie Home Companion radio show he invented and made hugely popular. Not just any accompanists but the excellent Robin and Linda Williams whose talent stood tall even next to the towering Maestro Keillor.
There are so many reasons to love this man’s show from the sincere humility that peppers his droll stories to the ad libbing that on this afternoon included two absolutely brilliant recitation send-ups of Cerritos without once mentioning the Auto Square. Hurray!! Sometimes Keillor was a bass provider in a folk trio; sometimes an actual baritone singer and several times he followed the path of Rex Harrison and sort of talk-sung which in French is called a diseur. God only knows if Garrison Keillor has some hard and fast play list but on this afternoon he rambled and crooned and charmed a delighted packed house that chose this national treasure over even the Super Bowl.
The first bit of humor was a recitation about Atheists which covered the bases and took no sides despite Keillor’s longtime relationship with the Episcopalian and Lutheran churches. Along with the crisp reading of “Hello Stranger” by Robin and Linda he won over the happy crowd with “the Cerritos Song” that I wish I had on my Ipod. He told long stories like ones about his family trip west where they forgot him in a North Dakota filling station and a shorter one about simply counting your blessings. He knocked off a bit of Guy Noir Private Eye battling Joey Robitussin and spun a long and delicious tale of growing up in Minnesota with a landscape rich with aunts. All the while the Williams’ rang out wonderful stuff, with some old gospel classics like “Jordan,” “Turn Your Radio On,” “I’ll Be Satisfied” and “When I Put Out to Sea” along with contemporary beauties like Iris Dement’s “Our Town.”
When Robin and Linda were not singing sweet harmonies they were laughing with the rest of the delighted audience at more stories including the hilarious differences between the world of raising a child forty years ago and the world of raising a child now which Keillor can surely testify to since he has a son 42 years old and a daughter who is 14. Yet, not everything in the show is completely light-hearted, since the man is a great student of great poetry which he recited with ease, grasping lines from Tennyson like we might recite a line from a Four Tops song. As host of the terrific “Writers Almanac” on Public Radio, Keillor is a man of great intellect who has put it to work entertaining and edifying the American public for four decades. In the intimacy of the Performing Arts Center he just came to real-life much to the delight of this adoring crowd.
Locals were lucky once again to sit at the red running shoed feet of the master storyteller Garrison Keillor at the Performing Arts Center over the weekend. Anyone who has ever held a microphone in front of a group of any size must bow down to this wonderful humorist, who in my humble opinion is the foremost public speaker in the land. Even the wonderful Bill Cosby doesn’t have Keillor’s versatility who sang, told stories and recited great poetry in this superb two hour banquet of the spoken word. After struggling with some health issues a couple of years ago that threatened his performance schedules Keillor is back and better than ever, this time with musical accompaniment ala the Prairie Home Companion radio show he invented and made hugely popular. Not just any accompanists but the excellent Robin and Linda Williams whose talent stood tall even next to the towering Maestro Keillor.
There are so many reasons to love this man’s show from the sincere humility that peppers his droll stories to the ad libbing that on this afternoon included two absolutely brilliant recitation send-ups of Cerritos without once mentioning the Auto Square. Hurray!! Sometimes Keillor was a bass provider in a folk trio; sometimes an actual baritone singer and several times he followed the path of Rex Harrison and sort of talk-sung which in French is called a diseur. God only knows if Garrison Keillor has some hard and fast play list but on this afternoon he rambled and crooned and charmed a delighted packed house that chose this national treasure over even the Super Bowl.
The first bit of humor was a recitation about Atheists which covered the bases and took no sides despite Keillor’s longtime relationship with the Episcopalian and Lutheran churches. Along with the crisp reading of “Hello Stranger” by Robin and Linda he won over the happy crowd with “the Cerritos Song” that I wish I had on my Ipod. He told long stories like ones about his family trip west where they forgot him in a North Dakota filling station and a shorter one about simply counting your blessings. He knocked off a bit of Guy Noir Private Eye battling Joey Robitussin and spun a long and delicious tale of growing up in Minnesota with a landscape rich with aunts. All the while the Williams’ rang out wonderful stuff, with some old gospel classics like “Jordan,” “Turn Your Radio On,” “I’ll Be Satisfied” and “When I Put Out to Sea” along with contemporary beauties like Iris Dement’s “Our Town.”
When Robin and Linda were not singing sweet harmonies they were laughing with the rest of the delighted audience at more stories including the hilarious differences between the world of raising a child forty years ago and the world of raising a child now which Keillor can surely testify to since he has a son 42 years old and a daughter who is 14. Yet, not everything in the show is completely light-hearted, since the man is a great student of great poetry which he recited with ease, grasping lines from Tennyson like we might recite a line from a Four Tops song. As host of the terrific “Writers Almanac” on Public Radio, Keillor is a man of great intellect who has put it to work entertaining and edifying the American public for four decades. In the intimacy of the Performing Arts Center he just came to real-life much to the delight of this adoring crowd.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Hawaiian Gardens Council Approves Loan with Southern California Edison on Energy Project
By Jerry Bernstein
The Hawaiian Gardens City Council at its Feb 8 meeting, in a 3-1 vote, approved a loan with Southern California Edison Company in the amount of $250,000 with no interest to complete an upgrade of the city’s energy efficiency and related improvements to city facilities. At the same time the council approved a budget adjustment in the amount of $288,200 from the General Fund and authorized the Finance Director to transfer the funds to the project.
Councilmember Reynaldo Rodriguez objected to the agreement on the grounds it was too costly. He asked why some of the work couldn’t be done in-house and questioned why staff hadn’t reviewed the existing contract covering the city’s computers that he said included making the computers more energy friendly and would have been done at no cost under the existing contract. He said in this time of economic stress, he didn’t
feel the city should be allocating this amount of money now for a project that could have waited.
Councilmember Barry Bruce agreed but said he would vote for the agreement because a contract had previously been signed. The city had earlier applied for a grant involving the State but the application was not approved due to the lack of funds by the State. Bruce said before staff makes a recommendation to the council on the hiring of consultants there needs to be a review on whether they are needed.
Bruce suggested an ad hoc committee be established to make recommendations to the city administrator before a consultant is hired, especially for a major project. He said he understands the city will need to hire consultants in the future but some type of oversight was needed.
Councilmember Victor Farfan expressed concern about micro managing. “We don’t want that to happen,” he said. Assured by City Administrator Ernesto Marquez he had no objections to the proposed committee, the council voted unanimously to create a two-man committee, naming Bruce and Mayor Mike Gomez to serve on it. Councilmember Michi Oyama-Canada was absent due to the flu.
According to a report by Pacific West Energery Solutions, the consultants hired by the city can expect a net savings of $356,994 in energy costs over a 15-year period upon completion of the project. This translates to an annual savings of $23,000 or $1,983.30 per month. Southern California Edison is expected to invoice the city over a 10-year period monthly at $2,083.33. After the 10-year payoff to SCE, the city would realize a net gain of $106,994 for the next five years with the savings then expected to continue in perpetuity.
In other business the council approved new parking restrictions on 226th Street from Juan Avenue to Horst Avenue. In a report to the council Community Development Director Joseph Colombo said the Public Safety Commission at its Jan. 19 meeting reviewed a petition submitted by residents on Dec. 21 requesting the city to remove the “No Parking Any Time” signs installed on the north side of 226 St. between Juan Avenue and Horst Avenue.
Colombo said upon researching the placement of the signs, the City Engineer could find no record the council had authorized their placement. He said painted red curb exists on the south side of 226th St. between Juan Avenue and Joliet Avenue. Again no record could be found the council had authorized the red curbing. However, he said since a bridge was built over the Artesia-Norwalk channel red curbing might have been painted right after its completion, restricting parking or stopping on the bridge. He said the council at the request of the Hawaiian Garden Terrace Senior Apartments approved red curbing on the south side between Joliet Avenue and Ibex Avenue.
The council voted to maintain red curbing on the north side of 226th Street between the Artesia-Norwalk Channel Bridge and on the south side of 226th Street between the channel and Joliet Avenue.
The Council also voted to award an emergency construction contract in the amount of $54,220 to H.D.R. Construction Inc of Hawaiian Gardens to repair the existing shade and patio structure in the civic center between the administration building and the
C-Robert Lee Gymnasium. Colombo said an inspection of the structure found extensive damage to the existing structure and some areas of water ponding on the roof. In addition there were areas where workers had stepped through the roof.
He said the structure was built in the mid-1970’s when the civic center complex was completed. The structure covers the main pedestrian walkway between the two buildings.
The Hawaiian Gardens City Council at its Feb 8 meeting, in a 3-1 vote, approved a loan with Southern California Edison Company in the amount of $250,000 with no interest to complete an upgrade of the city’s energy efficiency and related improvements to city facilities. At the same time the council approved a budget adjustment in the amount of $288,200 from the General Fund and authorized the Finance Director to transfer the funds to the project.
Councilmember Reynaldo Rodriguez objected to the agreement on the grounds it was too costly. He asked why some of the work couldn’t be done in-house and questioned why staff hadn’t reviewed the existing contract covering the city’s computers that he said included making the computers more energy friendly and would have been done at no cost under the existing contract. He said in this time of economic stress, he didn’t
feel the city should be allocating this amount of money now for a project that could have waited.
Councilmember Barry Bruce agreed but said he would vote for the agreement because a contract had previously been signed. The city had earlier applied for a grant involving the State but the application was not approved due to the lack of funds by the State. Bruce said before staff makes a recommendation to the council on the hiring of consultants there needs to be a review on whether they are needed.
Bruce suggested an ad hoc committee be established to make recommendations to the city administrator before a consultant is hired, especially for a major project. He said he understands the city will need to hire consultants in the future but some type of oversight was needed.
Councilmember Victor Farfan expressed concern about micro managing. “We don’t want that to happen,” he said. Assured by City Administrator Ernesto Marquez he had no objections to the proposed committee, the council voted unanimously to create a two-man committee, naming Bruce and Mayor Mike Gomez to serve on it. Councilmember Michi Oyama-Canada was absent due to the flu.
According to a report by Pacific West Energery Solutions, the consultants hired by the city can expect a net savings of $356,994 in energy costs over a 15-year period upon completion of the project. This translates to an annual savings of $23,000 or $1,983.30 per month. Southern California Edison is expected to invoice the city over a 10-year period monthly at $2,083.33. After the 10-year payoff to SCE, the city would realize a net gain of $106,994 for the next five years with the savings then expected to continue in perpetuity.
In other business the council approved new parking restrictions on 226th Street from Juan Avenue to Horst Avenue. In a report to the council Community Development Director Joseph Colombo said the Public Safety Commission at its Jan. 19 meeting reviewed a petition submitted by residents on Dec. 21 requesting the city to remove the “No Parking Any Time” signs installed on the north side of 226 St. between Juan Avenue and Horst Avenue.
Colombo said upon researching the placement of the signs, the City Engineer could find no record the council had authorized their placement. He said painted red curb exists on the south side of 226th St. between Juan Avenue and Joliet Avenue. Again no record could be found the council had authorized the red curbing. However, he said since a bridge was built over the Artesia-Norwalk channel red curbing might have been painted right after its completion, restricting parking or stopping on the bridge. He said the council at the request of the Hawaiian Garden Terrace Senior Apartments approved red curbing on the south side between Joliet Avenue and Ibex Avenue.
The council voted to maintain red curbing on the north side of 226th Street between the Artesia-Norwalk Channel Bridge and on the south side of 226th Street between the channel and Joliet Avenue.
The Council also voted to award an emergency construction contract in the amount of $54,220 to H.D.R. Construction Inc of Hawaiian Gardens to repair the existing shade and patio structure in the civic center between the administration building and the
C-Robert Lee Gymnasium. Colombo said an inspection of the structure found extensive damage to the existing structure and some areas of water ponding on the roof. In addition there were areas where workers had stepped through the roof.
He said the structure was built in the mid-1970’s when the civic center complex was completed. The structure covers the main pedestrian walkway between the two buildings.
Cerritos Candidates Meet in Second Candidate Forum
By Jerry Bernstein
Candidates seeking election to the three Cerritos city council open seats Mar. 8 campaigned for votes Jan. 1 at the second candidate forum sponsored by the Artesia-Cerritos Woman’s Club.
Questions included their position on selling the Performing Arts Center, council salaries, Governor Brown’s decision to close down Redevelopment Agencies, and Cerritos neighborhoods infrastructure. They were also asked about the unincorporated area on the west side of the city off 166th Street across from the Cerritos College parking lot.
Kiran Rami, a first time candidate for city council said if elected she would bring a young mother’s perspective to the council. She said thus far the city has done very well for its residents. If elected her focus will be to continue on that path and to work with all the city departments to ensure its continuance. Unfortunately, she had to leave after her introductory remarks in order to teach an opening class at Long Beach City College where she is an instructor. She hoped residents would vote for her on Mar. 8, saying she was number one on the ballot.
Former Mayor Grace Hu said she feels her past experience in city government and her business expertise could be helpful to Cerritos during the current recession and state financial crisis. Responding to the question about selling part of the Performing Art Center she said when she was on the council she voted for the Center. At that time we had approximately $4 or $5 million to promote it. She said it was felt the Center would bring more business to the city. Now times have changed and she would like to review all the programs involved with the Center before making a final decision.
Harshad Mody , a resident of Cerritos since 1981, said he is looking forward to serving Cerritos. He said he was 65 year old, retired, and would be a full time councilmember. He said he was there to listen to the people and his doors will be open to everyone.
Turning to the Performing Art Center he said we need somebody to look at the Center in detail. “We should be making money and he feels the city doesn’t have the right direction in running it. He also said he believes the city needs to pay more attention to the needs of the neighborhoods.
Mayor Joseph Cho said many Cerritos residents are concerned about overgrown trees, broken sidewalks, and community safety. He said the city is in better shape than some of its neighbors but it is not immune from the state’s financial crisis and the national recession. He opposes the governor’s proposal to close all Redevelopment Agencies by July 1, stating it would hurt all cities. On the question of the Performing Arts Center he said for the past several years the city has made changes to reduce costs. He said their new director has proposed several ideas. He is not in favor of selling any part of the Center. Concerning the unincorporated area on the city’s west side, he said the area is not part of Cerritos but county.
Mark Pulido said he was not in favor of selling the Performing Arts Center. He said it’s a magnet that attracts new business to the city, supports our youth and is the center of the Town Center. He asked who would benefit by doing so. Turning to what makes Cerritos a good place to live, he said it is its neighborhoods. It’s time to reinvest in our neighborhoods. This includes tree trimming, fixing broken sidewalks, and repairing potholes.
Chris Fuentes said he believes there is a crisis developing. “We talk about the Redevelopment Agency going away. This is something we’ve known about for a long time. He critized the city for moving ahead with the Cuesta Villa project with ABC when it knew it didn’t have all the money on hand to fund it. He said the council and school board voted for it, and described it as a subversion of the redevelopment program. He said the Governor “wisely” put the breaks on it.
He described the city administration as “very top heavy,” criticized salaries for top executives and management as excessive and accused the city of taking rank and file employees and putting them on a part time basis, with no chance of becoming full time employees where they can earn benefits. He compared Cerritos with the city of Bell where a strong city manager and a rubber stamp council led he city down the road of corruption.
Turning to the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, he said he did not believe in selling it but favored a public-private partnership to run it. On the question of the Westside, he indicated the rest of the city receives service, but the only time the city listens to the Westside is during a city council election.
Councilman Bruce Barrows said if re-elected he will continue his support to keep Cerritos a vibrant city and provide residents the high quality service they and the business community have come to expect from the city. He said in the coming months city will need strong leadership. He stated during the past four years Cerritos has experienced economic growth. He cited the new Nordstrom Department Store, Forever 21 and Apple openings as examples of the city bringing in new business. He said the council and city administration is continually working to bring new business opportunities to Cerritos. Barrows is not favor of selling the Performing Arts Center, saying when it was first planned it was described as an economic engine that would bring new business to the city. He said it would be a big mistake to sell it. It benefits the entire community.”
On the question of the unincorporated area off 166th Street Barrows said the city has no jurisdiction in that area. It is under Los Angeles County jurisdiction. It is a county island.
Twelfth Annual Festival of Friendship Held at Cerritos Center
By Jerry Bernstein
The 12th annual Festival of Friendship, sponsored by the Cerritos Let Freedom Ring Committee in conjunction with the Los Cerritos Center was held Feb. 5 at the Center affording the community with a unique opportunity to learn about the City’s rich diversity. A variety of acts were performed by local community groups on three stages in the mall and included an assortment of ethnic and dances of their native cultures. In addition, a children’s arts and crafts area was set up in front of the Nordstrom stage with the youngsters were given instructions how to make a guitar using California Pizza boxes.
Cerritos Mayor Joseph Cho welcomed those present and said Cerritos is a city of diversity. A city its residents can be proud of. Girl Scout Troop 1423 gave the pledge of Allegiance and Sascha Elegino sang the national anthem.
The 12th annual Festival of Friendship, sponsored by the Cerritos Let Freedom Ring Committee in conjunction with the Los Cerritos Center was held Feb. 5 at the Center affording the community with a unique opportunity to learn about the City’s rich diversity. A variety of acts were performed by local community groups on three stages in the mall and included an assortment of ethnic and dances of their native cultures. In addition, a children’s arts and crafts area was set up in front of the Nordstrom stage with the youngsters were given instructions how to make a guitar using California Pizza boxes.
Cerritos Mayor Joseph Cho welcomed those present and said Cerritos is a city of diversity. A city its residents can be proud of. Girl Scout Troop 1423 gave the pledge of Allegiance and Sascha Elegino sang the national anthem.
Your City Coupons.net set to launch Feb. 14
THE WEBSITE MIMICS OTHER COUPON SITES BUT WITH A TWIST, GIVING 10% OF ITS’ SALES BACK TO LOCAL CHARITIES.
Your City Coupons.net (YCC), a subsidiary of LCCN and an online coupon retailer for four years, is set to re-launch its’ new site this coming Monday February 14.
Grabbing hold of this new emerging market, YCC will send an email to its’ online audience offering deep discounts on a local product or service, but with a twist; YCC will give a whopping 10% of its’ sales back to charities who sign up.
“Obviously the internet has presented many challenges to the newspaper industry”, says Brian Hews, publisher of LCCN, “but now there is a risk-free way to provide a win-win for everyone involved, the charities, the merchant, and local consumers.”
YCC will offer deals such as $30 worth of food for $15, a $50 spa treatment for $25, and even a whale-watching trip worth $60 for $29. Consumers go online, designate their favorite charity and purchase the coupon. When the coupon closes-typically in two to three days-YCC will total up the sales and give 10% back to all charities who were chosen during the purchase.
Community-based website
Unlike the larger national coupon websites, YCC is a local community-based website serving Cerritos, Artesia, Norwalk, La Palma, E. Lakewood, Hawaiian Gardens and surrounding communities “It is a great way for companies to connect to the local community”, says owner Jorge Chan of El Rocoto restaurant in Cerritos, “YCC does all the work for you, and you in turn get to donate 10% to a local charity. LCCN will even come out and publicize your donation giving your company and the charity even more exposure”.
In addition to the coupon on the website, YCC will also include Los Cerritos Community News to the marketing mix, adding an additional 105,000 local community news readers (and new subscribers), generating even more exposure. “This is something those large national websites cannot do, offer an ad in a local community newspaper group. We have a very loyal readership ready to purchase local deals, and in today’s tough competitive economic climate, you need every advantage to achieve success, the YCC model does that”, stated Hews.
New customers for merchant
So what's in it for the merchant--which might be a museum, a yoga studio or an ice cream shop? Exposure. Since the resulting revenue is not only discounted but shared (typically, 50/50) with YCC, the vendor may see incremental sales. But it now has customers who might never have thought of patronizing the business. YCC will get its offers in front of eyeballs by buying ad space through Google and Facebook and via the word of mouth of its subscribers and loyal readers of its’ newspaper. “We want to do for local e-commerce what Amazon did for normal consumer goods," Hews said.
Landing a YCC deal, can put a small business on the map. When Five Guys Cerritos first opened, YCC offered free fries and owner Phil Ratner was impressed. “We had over eighty people come in with the coupon, this system works. We look at this as incredibly effective advertising."
Easy fundraising for local charities, non-profits and schools
“We have contacted over 100 charities and told them of our new website”, said Hews, “I can tell you, with the current economic climate, they were very excited and eager to participate”. A coupon that charges $15 will generate $1.50 for a charity. Multiply that out to one hundred, or even one thousand and the donations can add up very quickly.
“Every dollar helps in this environment, said Monique Rodriguez, public relations manager for Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital in Whittier, “YCC gives you the ability to raise funds for your favorite charity and have a good time while doing it”.
YCC will help local schools too. “Our goal is to get every school in the area to sign up, right down to the individual classroom”, said Hews, “having kids go through elementary and middle school, I know how tough it was for teachers, most spending their own money on supplies. YCC will give users the ability to designate Mrs. Smith’s fourth grade class at Fedde for donations from coupons”.
“We are very excited, said Nick Nicolaides, sales manager for YCC, “there's never been anything--radio, TV, newspaper, whatever--that could generate small business sales so quickly, and to add the donation factor creates a website that will-as our sales-mark states-Give back to charity one coupon at a time”.
Charities, non-profits, and schools interested in participating can contact Your City Coupons.net at 562-407-3873 or online at yourcitycoupons.net
Your City Coupons.net (YCC), a subsidiary of LCCN and an online coupon retailer for four years, is set to re-launch its’ new site this coming Monday February 14.
Grabbing hold of this new emerging market, YCC will send an email to its’ online audience offering deep discounts on a local product or service, but with a twist; YCC will give a whopping 10% of its’ sales back to charities who sign up.
“Obviously the internet has presented many challenges to the newspaper industry”, says Brian Hews, publisher of LCCN, “but now there is a risk-free way to provide a win-win for everyone involved, the charities, the merchant, and local consumers.”
YCC will offer deals such as $30 worth of food for $15, a $50 spa treatment for $25, and even a whale-watching trip worth $60 for $29. Consumers go online, designate their favorite charity and purchase the coupon. When the coupon closes-typically in two to three days-YCC will total up the sales and give 10% back to all charities who were chosen during the purchase.
Community-based website
Unlike the larger national coupon websites, YCC is a local community-based website serving Cerritos, Artesia, Norwalk, La Palma, E. Lakewood, Hawaiian Gardens and surrounding communities “It is a great way for companies to connect to the local community”, says owner Jorge Chan of El Rocoto restaurant in Cerritos, “YCC does all the work for you, and you in turn get to donate 10% to a local charity. LCCN will even come out and publicize your donation giving your company and the charity even more exposure”.
In addition to the coupon on the website, YCC will also include Los Cerritos Community News to the marketing mix, adding an additional 105,000 local community news readers (and new subscribers), generating even more exposure. “This is something those large national websites cannot do, offer an ad in a local community newspaper group. We have a very loyal readership ready to purchase local deals, and in today’s tough competitive economic climate, you need every advantage to achieve success, the YCC model does that”, stated Hews.
New customers for merchant
So what's in it for the merchant--which might be a museum, a yoga studio or an ice cream shop? Exposure. Since the resulting revenue is not only discounted but shared (typically, 50/50) with YCC, the vendor may see incremental sales. But it now has customers who might never have thought of patronizing the business. YCC will get its offers in front of eyeballs by buying ad space through Google and Facebook and via the word of mouth of its subscribers and loyal readers of its’ newspaper. “We want to do for local e-commerce what Amazon did for normal consumer goods," Hews said.
Landing a YCC deal, can put a small business on the map. When Five Guys Cerritos first opened, YCC offered free fries and owner Phil Ratner was impressed. “We had over eighty people come in with the coupon, this system works. We look at this as incredibly effective advertising."
Easy fundraising for local charities, non-profits and schools
“We have contacted over 100 charities and told them of our new website”, said Hews, “I can tell you, with the current economic climate, they were very excited and eager to participate”. A coupon that charges $15 will generate $1.50 for a charity. Multiply that out to one hundred, or even one thousand and the donations can add up very quickly.
“Every dollar helps in this environment, said Monique Rodriguez, public relations manager for Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital in Whittier, “YCC gives you the ability to raise funds for your favorite charity and have a good time while doing it”.
YCC will help local schools too. “Our goal is to get every school in the area to sign up, right down to the individual classroom”, said Hews, “having kids go through elementary and middle school, I know how tough it was for teachers, most spending their own money on supplies. YCC will give users the ability to designate Mrs. Smith’s fourth grade class at Fedde for donations from coupons”.
“We are very excited, said Nick Nicolaides, sales manager for YCC, “there's never been anything--radio, TV, newspaper, whatever--that could generate small business sales so quickly, and to add the donation factor creates a website that will-as our sales-mark states-Give back to charity one coupon at a time”.
Charities, non-profits, and schools interested in participating can contact Your City Coupons.net at 562-407-3873 or online at yourcitycoupons.net
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)