By Loren Kopff
Suburban League victories are hard to come by for Artesia’s softball program but one can’t fault the Pioneers for trying, or even staying in the game in the early innings. Although the Pioneers were no match for Cerritos in a 13-1 defeat this past Wednesday, it was quite interesting for the first two innings.
The Lady Dons scratched across only three runs during the first two frames and got just two hits off of senior pitcher Chelsea Small. But in the bottom of the third, Cerritos (14-6 overall, 7-2 in league action) sent 15 batters to the plate and scored nine runs. It marked the third time in seven league games that the Pioneers were within striking range before the fourth inning.
On Mar. 30, Artesia trailed Norwalk 3-2 heading into the fourth before losing 6-2. On Apr. 13, a 4-0 Glenn lead after three innings resulted in a 7-1 win and two days later, the Pioneers squandered a 5-2 lead after five innings. The Lady Eagles scored seven runs in the top of the sixth and four more in the seventh. Artesia head coach John Zamora admitted he needed to change his starting pitcher sooner when opponents were having those big innings.
But in order to score runs, the team needs to get hits and that’s something the Pioneers are having trouble with thus far. Against Cerritos sophomore Kaylilani Minami, the Pioneers got only four hits and in the last four games, Artesia has combined for 19 hits
“We’re not hitting right now,” Zamora said. “When we don’t have the pressure on the other team, it makes it very difficult to gain our confidence and have the pitcher pitch with a little more confidence.”
Minami sat down nine of the first 10 batters she faced before Small led off the fourth with a double to right field. After she moved to third on a passed ball and Minami’s sixth of 10 strikeouts, senior center fielder Reanna Guzman singled in Small.
In addition to the lack of hitting, the Pioneers (4-10, 0-7) have been plagued by errors. In the past four games, Artesia has committed 17 errors. In contrast, when the team began the season winning four of its first six games, Artesia had six miscues.
“The thing I have noticed is they are making more errors,” Zamora said. “We work on those things every day in practice. We have a mixture of girls who are young and we have [some seniors]. The senior girls are trying to battle through it and the underclassmen are trying to catch it.”
Cerritos freshman shortstop Lilianna Herrera went two for three with three runs batted in and a run scored while Minami, freshman catcher Jasmine Javier and junior third baseman Alyssa Marquez all had a pair of hits. Senior left fielder Nikki Rosenberger drove in a pair of runs and junior center fielder Sarah Smith was hit by a pitch three times, scored three runs and is now batting .625 in league action but has reached base 27 times in 35 trips to the plate.
The Pioneers will host Cerritos today, then visit Bellflower on Wednesday. As for the Lady Dons, who recently fell out of the California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section Division II top 10 poll, they will wrap up the regular season with a home and home series against Norwalk with the home portion on Wednesday.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Bernadette “Berni” Menezes Former Artesia First Lady and Inspirational community leader
By Randy Economy
Bernadette L. “Berni” Menezes, a well loved and long time Artesia community leader and former “First Lady” of the community has passed away after a long illness, her son Paulo announced this week. She was 67 year old.
Berni, as her friends called, lived what many called the “American Dream.”
Born Jan. 22, 1944 in a small village in Altares located on the island of Terceira-Azores, Portugal she met and fell in love with her future husband Isidro S. Menezes in 1964 and decided to move to the United States and migrated to Artesia.
Like so many other immigrants during this era, Portugal may have been her “Mother Land” but Artesia became their home when they moved here in 1966. Family was always the most important aspect of Berni’s life. In 1971 she gave birth to Paulo I. Menezes, and this was their only child.
She was a hard working woman and keeping busy and productive was never a difficult task. Her son Paulo recalls that she was “an excellent cook, loved gardening and loved my father, her family and grandchildren.”
Longtime Artesia resident Susie Gomes considered Mrs. Menezes to be like her “second mother” and she fondly recalls her positive spirit during her final days. “She was the light of our lives in so many wonderful ways,” Gomes recalled. “I have never met anyone who wanted to live life more than Berni, and her passing will be felt for a long time by everyone who she touched,” remarked Gomes.
“It was a tremendous loss for the people of Artesia. She was full of strength and hope and always optimistic about life,” said Artesia Mayor Victor Manalo. “She taught everyone about Faith in God and how important to live every minute to the fullest.”
Bernadette had struggled with much pain and many medical conditions for the past 29 years. But even with all the pain, she “never complained and never made herself the center of suffering,” Gomes remembers.
Bernadette’s life was celebrated this week with receiving full Roman Catholic burial. A Rosary was held on Wednesday night at Holy Family Catholic Church in Artesia, and Mass was conducted on Thursday morning. She was laid to rest at Our Souls Cemetery in Long Beach.
Bernadette is survived by her husband Isidro, her son Paulo, daughter in law Andrea (DeFreitas), and two grandsons Tiago, and Lucas and sister Maria Sousa.
Dr. Urban on Today’s Dentistry: A Correlation Between Oral Health and Heart Disease
Stop smoking, exercise, lose some weight, and watch your diet. How often is it that we hear these fundamentals from our doctors and drug companies when it comes to having a healthy heart? I’ll toss out another-brush your teeth and have your gums checked regularly.
Yes there is gathering evidence that heart disease is twice as high in people who have periodontal (gum and tooth supporting bone) disease. It seems that the most common bacteria in the gums may cause blood clots increasing the incidence of heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, the same bacteria can infect the heart valves.
How do the bacteria from the mouth get into the bloodstream become harmful? Bacteria cause periodontal disease. We know there are many types of bacteria in the mouth. When the disease causing bacteria are in high enough population the host (you) may develop an immune reaction. If you have bleeding in your body you should be very concerned. Likewise when there is bleeding in the gums you should have the same response. Chronic recurring bleeding is not good anywhere. Bleeding indicates that tiny blood vessels are opened up and become a pathway for bacterial infection in the blood stream. The presence of bacteria in the blood is bacteremia and over time it may spread to other body tissues like the heart.
The first line of defense is maintaining a healthy mouth. This requires meaningful brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. The dental hygienist is your best friend. The hygienist will check to see if the gums are infected, bleeding, or swollen. Then they will check to see if any bone loss or breakdown in the gum attachment to the tooth has occurred. Remember that periodontal disease (over 50% of us have it) is painless and progressive. You may not be aware of it until the end stages of the disease.
Warning signs that you should know about include gums that bleed when you brush, gums that are red swollen or tender, gums that pull away from teeth, pus or loose teeth, front teeth that begin separating and persistent bad breath. Periodontal disease has a very characteristic odor and can be sensed by those around you. It is a complicating factor for those afflicted with diabetes, stroke, pulmonary disease, and gastric ulcers.
Treatment will vary according to the severity. The first steps will be good oral hygiene instruction and frequent monitoring. Regular cleanings of the bacteria encrusted surfaces of your teeth is a proven method to stop the destruction caused by these bugs. Surgery may be needed from the periodontist. Maintenance is required because these bugs can double in population every twenty minutes. I have seen periodontal disease that has been in remission only to suddenly (within 6 weeks) strike up again. That is why frequent monitoring is crucial.
Periodontal disease is something that you have to live with but it is controllable. Keep up with your dental checkups!
For answers to your dental questions
Douglas Urban, D.D.S.
Cerritos, CA 90703
562 924-1523
www.DrDouglasUrban.com
Yes there is gathering evidence that heart disease is twice as high in people who have periodontal (gum and tooth supporting bone) disease. It seems that the most common bacteria in the gums may cause blood clots increasing the incidence of heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, the same bacteria can infect the heart valves.
How do the bacteria from the mouth get into the bloodstream become harmful? Bacteria cause periodontal disease. We know there are many types of bacteria in the mouth. When the disease causing bacteria are in high enough population the host (you) may develop an immune reaction. If you have bleeding in your body you should be very concerned. Likewise when there is bleeding in the gums you should have the same response. Chronic recurring bleeding is not good anywhere. Bleeding indicates that tiny blood vessels are opened up and become a pathway for bacterial infection in the blood stream. The presence of bacteria in the blood is bacteremia and over time it may spread to other body tissues like the heart.
The first line of defense is maintaining a healthy mouth. This requires meaningful brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. The dental hygienist is your best friend. The hygienist will check to see if the gums are infected, bleeding, or swollen. Then they will check to see if any bone loss or breakdown in the gum attachment to the tooth has occurred. Remember that periodontal disease (over 50% of us have it) is painless and progressive. You may not be aware of it until the end stages of the disease.
Warning signs that you should know about include gums that bleed when you brush, gums that are red swollen or tender, gums that pull away from teeth, pus or loose teeth, front teeth that begin separating and persistent bad breath. Periodontal disease has a very characteristic odor and can be sensed by those around you. It is a complicating factor for those afflicted with diabetes, stroke, pulmonary disease, and gastric ulcers.
Treatment will vary according to the severity. The first steps will be good oral hygiene instruction and frequent monitoring. Regular cleanings of the bacteria encrusted surfaces of your teeth is a proven method to stop the destruction caused by these bugs. Surgery may be needed from the periodontist. Maintenance is required because these bugs can double in population every twenty minutes. I have seen periodontal disease that has been in remission only to suddenly (within 6 weeks) strike up again. That is why frequent monitoring is crucial.
Periodontal disease is something that you have to live with but it is controllable. Keep up with your dental checkups!
For answers to your dental questions
Douglas Urban, D.D.S.
Cerritos, CA 90703
562 924-1523
www.DrDouglasUrban.com
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Moskowitz Foundation Donates $100,000 to American Red Cross for Relief Victims in Japan
By Larry Caballero
After reading about the tragedy in Japan that followed a severe earthquake, after shocks and a tsunami, the Irving Moskowitz Foundation offered to give assistance. At the Greater Long Beach Chapter Headquarters of the American Red Cross, Moskowitz Representative Sal Flores presented a $100,000 check Mar. 17 to American Red Cross CEO Nancy Kindelan.
“This has been the most generous donation so far,” said Kindelan, “and all the money that is raised will be put to good use to assist the victims of one of the worst disasters to hit Japan in many years.”
The Moskowitz Foundation has supported and contributed to many different relief efforts in the past including the Kosovo relief crisis in 1999, the devastating earthquake in Turkey in 1999, and the New York State World Trade Center Relief Fund after 9/11.
Large donations were made by the Foundation to the American Red Cross to help aid and give relief to the victims of the 2003 massive wild fires in California; the tsunami disaster that hit Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India and Thailand in 2004; and most recently to the Hurricane Katrina victims in New Orleans and Louisiana in 2005.
One of the Foundation’s principal beneficiaries is the City of Hawaiian Gardens where it operates a state-legislated Bingo Club. Proceeds benefit the residents through social action organizations such as Head Start and the United Community Group, and through the Foundation’s direct support of the Hawaiian Gardens Food Bank, children’s athletic programs, scholarship awards, health care programs and educational initiatives.
Unmarked Civil War Soldier’s Grave to receive a Headstone at Artesia Cemetery
by Delores Eveland
Artesia Historical Society
Corporal John W. Miller, a Civil War Veteran of Company E, 118th Illinois Infantry died on March 29, 1909 at the Old Soldier’s Home in Sawtelle, California. Prior to his death his family had been residents of Los Nietos, Downey and Artesia; therefore, upon his death his body was transported to the Artesia Cemetery where it was buried in an unmarked grave. Unfortunately a headstone was never placed on his grave and it remained unmarked for over 100 years. Through the efforts of Margaret Alley of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, assisted by Floyd Farrar of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, the cemetery has received a headstone from the Department of Veteran’s Affairs.
The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), General W. S. Rosecrans Camp No. 2 Department of California and Pacific and their Auxiliary, will be conducting a special Headstone Dedication Service on April 9 at 11:00 a.m., also the 146th anniversary of the Surrender at Appomattox, Virginia and the end of the Civil War.
The service will include the rendering of Corporal Miller’s military funeral honors. The Sons of Veterans Reserve will provide a musket detail for the three-volley salute, the Millikan High School Army JROTC will provide the color guard, and members of the Mayfair High School Marching Corps will play Taps. The Artesia Cemetery is located at 11142 Artesia Blvd., Cerritos, California.
The Artesia Cemetery staff has spent several months surveying the cemetery and updating their records to ensure they are accurate and complete. In addition to Corporal Miller, several other Veteran’s Headstones have been obtained and will be placed on either unmarked graves or graves where the headstones are damaged and need replacing. A headstone memorial is available to all documented veterans from the Veteran’s Administration to ensure that no veteran’s grave goes unmarked.
The Artesia Historical Society proudly supports efforts to maintain the Artesia Cemetery, one of the “best kept historic secrets” of the area. The Artesia Cemetery was started with its first burial in 1882. As the only cemetery around for many years, it served the needs of Artesia and much of the surrounding area. Through the years many burials followed, of which about 30 were Veterans of the Civil War. The cemetery now includes the graves of Veterans of several other conflicts, the most recent being a casualty of the War in Iraq.
In the early 1900s the California State Legislature enacted provisions into the State Health and Safety code to establish local public cemetery districts. The county boards of supervisors were given jurisdiction for the management and control of all such cemeteries. Artesia Cemetery, comprised of 14 acres, is one of 265 public cemeteries throughout the state and was formed in 1929. Operations are governed by a Board of Trustees, appointed by Supervisor Don Knabe, Fourth District, Los Angeles County, and currently include: Joyce Yeutter, District Manager, and Trustees Lupe Cabrera, Dick Redmayne and Barbara Applebury.
The community is encouraged to attend the Headstone Dedication Ceremony and visit our own special “piece of history” where they can step back in time, meandering through the many old fashion upright tombstones and military markers. Many past community leaders final resting places will be encountered. Take a few minutes to honor the Veterans who helped to protect our shores, as well as those who have gone before us.
Your City Coupons donates to local charities
In its first month of operation, Cerritos based Your City Coupons.net (a subsidiary of Los Cerritos Community News) generated more than $400 for local charities. A total of sixty-six coupons sold in the first month, ranging from Avenue 3 Pizza to Ajito Grill and Yakitori to a Whale Watching excursion in Newport Beach.
Grabbing hold of this new emerging market, YCC sends an email to its’ online audience offering deep discounts on a local product or service.
YCC offers deals such as $30 worth of food for $15, a $50 spa treatment for $25, etc. 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. Charities who wish to participate can call 562.407.3873
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”, said Nick Nicolaides, Sales Manger for YCC.
Fundraising tool 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 Nicolaides, “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
Grabbing hold of this new emerging market, YCC sends an email to its’ online audience offering deep discounts on a local product or service.
YCC offers deals such as $30 worth of food for $15, a $50 spa treatment for $25, etc. 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. Charities who wish to participate can call 562.407.3873
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”, said Nick Nicolaides, Sales Manger for YCC.
Fundraising tool 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 Nicolaides, “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
1st CEB Adoption Committee sponsors Cerritos Bowl-A-Thon
LEFT: Eager to support the Marines were the Bowl-A-Thon Committee members shown (l-r) Charlotte Morita, Maria Skiles, Sara Clardy, Lew Woodson, Laurie Forward, Joanne Witt and Judy Mendes. More than 50 Friends of the 1st CEB Marine Battalion based at Camp Pendleton sponsored and participated in an O.K. Corral Bowl-A-Thon for 15 Marines Mar. 19 at Cerritos Lanes. The Marines were also scheduled to attend a Cerritos Civic Center and Sheriff Station tour and dinner at BJ’s Restaurant hosted by the 1st CEB Adoption Committee.“It’s always a joy for us to sponsor and host these events to show our appreciation for all that the Marines do for us to keep us safe,” said Dorothy Owen, President of the 1st CEB Adoption Committee.
Miss Cerritos crowned at CCPA
The Cerritos Regional Chamber of Commerce held the 2011 Miss Cerritos Contest on March 22nd at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. The Miss Cerritos Contest is not a pageant; it is a professional opportunity for young women. The Cerritos Chamber was seeking professional, outgoing, responsible, and articulate young women to represent the Chamber as an Ambassador for one year. The contestants were judged on their poise, attitude, social skills, and professionalism at their individual interviews as well as their speeches and general communication skills during the Miss Cerritos Contest itself.
Vying for the title of Miss Cerritos were eleven talented and enthusiastic contestants. Stephanie Peterson was crowned the new 2011 Miss Cerritos. Stephanie is currently attending Cypress College and is pursuing a career in Speech and Language Therapy. Michelle Yoo claimed the title of 1st Princess. Michelle is also a student at Cypress College, whose interest lies in the field of International Relations and Business. Lisa Lifton received the honor of 2nd Princess. Lisa is currently employed with the Cerritos Sheraton Hotel as its Sales and Catering Coordinator.
Hawaiian Gardens recognition dinner honors sheriff deputies and firemen
By Jerry Bernstein
Hawaiian Gardens held its Second Annual Public Safety Awards Dinner Mar. 18 in the C. Robert Lee Recreation Center presented by the Hawaiian Gardens Committee for Public Safety and the Neighborhood Watch. Mayor Mike Gomez welcomed those in attendance.
Honorees include Deputy Freddy Brown and Deputy Jose Diaz attached to the Lakewood Sheriff Station, and members of the Los Angeles Fire Department Station #34 in Hawaiian Gardens.
Upon greeting those in attendance, Mayor Gomez expressed the city’s gratitude to the men and women of the Los Angeles Sheriff Department and Los Angles County Fire Department who he said risk their lives to keep Hawaiian Gardens residents safe.
Sponsors of the event included the Hawaiian Gardens Casino, HFGA Apts/Logan Property Management, Alvarez Refinishing, and LMO Contractors.
Music was provided by the Artesia High School Band under the direction of Jesus Mendoza with a musical salute by Asia Murray.
Committee members included Roselia Gomez, Michael Gomez, Valerie Mason, Yolanda Brown, Cynthia Haynes, Sandra Olmedo, Nida Canada, Robert Pineda, Mary Lou Landes, Teresa Jasper, Lyn Jones, Tony Garcia, Christine Garcia, and Silvestre.
Carmenita teacher finalist in educator of year contest
Carmenita Middle School teacher Debbie Orr [ctr] with husband Hank and daughter Sarah receive Certificate of Recognition from ABC School Board President Maynard Law upon being named finalist for the California League of Middle Schools Region 11 Educator of the Year. Looking on is Principal Principal Rhonda Buss.
Fourteen local high school girls to compete in Junior Miss Contest this Sunday at CPE
The Cerritos-Artesia Distinguished Young Women’s [DYW} program (formerly Junior Miss) will be held this Sunday Mar. 27 at 5 PM at Cerritos Park Est. Fourteen local high school junior girls will be participating in this scholarship program this year. They will be taking interviews, doing a fitness routine, showing off their talent and walking on stage in beautiful dresses.
Last year’s Junior Miss, Cerritos Breeana Johng will be performing a dance before she crowns the new DYW.
The DYW was founded in 1958 in Mobile, Ala., Distinguished Young Women is the largest and oldest national scholarship program for high school girls. During its 52 years of operation, Distinguished Young Women (formerly American’s Junior Miss) has provided life-changing experiences for more than 700,000 young women and offered more than $92 million in college scholarships. In 2010, the name was changed to better address young women in the 21st century.
The scholarship program, for the Cerritos- Artesia Distinguished Young Women, strives to inspire high school girls to develop their full and individual potential. We offer a fun and transformative experience, which cumulates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments.
The young women are encouraged to continue their education. College scholarships are provided to the winners in each category. Throughout the program, all participants are encouraged to:
* Develop self-confidence, abilities to interview effectively, speak in public, perform on stage and build interpersonal relationships.
* Showcase excellence in academic achievement, physical fitness, on-stage performance skills, and the ability to think and communicate clearly.
* Foster opportunities to beneficially inspire the lives of others.
Distinguished Young Women is a scholarship program that promotes education and excellence in all areas of life by striving their goals and become successful leaders in their communities. Since 1975, the Cerritos-Artesia program has been promoted by the community. Rotary Club of Cerritos-Artesia and the City of Cerritos are major sponsors for the event. The ongoing support of the Cerritos Optimist, and the Soroptimist International of Artesia-Cerritos, provides us with the financial foundation to award our deserving Distinguished Young Women.
Whitney High student wins Rotary Club speech contest
Sayoni Saha, a student at Whitney High School, took first place at the annual Cerritos-Artesia Rotary Club annual speech contest held on Mar. 21. The contest is open to high school students in the area. The winner has a chance to participate in a Rotary District contest and possibly win a $1,000 scholarship.
This year’s participants included Xavier Buck from Gahr, Vighnesh Iyer from Whitney, Philip Sugui from Gahr, and Sayoni Saha from Whitney.
Toast Master members of the Rotary Club graded the participants. The winner received a $100 savings bond, and the other contestants a $50 savings bond.
The Rotary Club is dedicated to promoting local events and programs in the Artesia, Cerritos, and Hawaiian Garden area. This includes a close liaison with the ABC Unified School District in a number of programs. For more information about Rotary, contact Dr. Steve Sherman at 562 926-1097.
Cerritos girls take silver medal in California State Championships
The Cerritos Firecrackers girls under 14 soccer team was inches away from becoming the 2011 American Youth Soccer Organization’s California State Champions as a last minute gasp to score the winning goal in the final seconds of overtime just went agonizingly wide of the net forcing the game against eventual champion Winters into the Russian roulette of penalty kicks this past Saturday at the Chapman Sports Complex in Garden Grove.
Winters, a small community near Sacramento, was a perfect four for four in penalty to take the state title to northern California and Cerritos was unable to match their perfection. But the game should have never gone that far if not for a tremendously valiant come-from-behind rally by the Firecrackers. Down 2-0 midway through the second half, the Cerritos squad found a higher gear and began to pressure the Winters defense. A great move involving Cerritos resident Karen Malacon led to a Madison Wells score to make it a 2-1 score and then with about five minutes left in regulation a scramble in front of the Winters goal found the ball at Wells’ feet, who once again kept her cool and scored the tying goal to send the game into overtime.
In overtime, Cerritos dominated the run of play. Juliana Orozco, Ariel Burns, Karen Malacon, Marissa Pacheco, Cynthia Rogel and Lauren Miranda pushed forward with determination and all had shots on goal. And then just before overtime ended, Orozco, Wells and Malacon combined on a last second attempt to score the winner, but it was not meant to be as the shot was inches away from finding an open net. The Cerritos Firecrackers’ accomplishments are remarkable, as they reached the championship game from around 1,000 AYSO teams statewide in the girls under 14 division. According to several sources, it is believed that they are the first Cerritos AYSO team to play for a state title since the 1999-2000 Cerritos under 12 girls and 1999-2000 boys under 14 state champions.
The Firecrackers made it to the championship game following a thrilling 2-1 victory over an ultra talented team from San Luis Obispo. Led by a great defensive effort from Summer Jordan, Kaylie Mota, Ariel Burns and Isabel Garcia, the Firecrackers held off a team that included several members from the 2010 Governor’s Cup Club State Championship girls under 13 championship winning team. The Firecrackers created a ton of scoring chances via counter attacks against the potent SLO offensive attack. Madison Wells opened up the scoring before SLO tied it. In the final minutes of the game a perfectly placed shot from 20 yards away by Juliana Orozco sent Cerritos into the championship game. The Cerritos Firecrackers also features talented midfielders Rubi Vazquez, Cheyenne Avila and Vanessa Von Deudekom, defender Justine Vitug and the fearless goalkeeper Karina Mayoral.
“I can’t tell these players enough of how proud I am of their effort and accomplishments this season,” said coach Orlando Gutierrez. “To play for a state title was an unimaginable dream at the start of the season and they made it happen. I hope that this is an experience that the players and their parents fondly remember for a long time.”
For the season, the Cerritos Firecrackers won 18, tied 2 and only lost one game other than the state championship game. They scored 65 goals and only allowed 11 for the season.
On Sunday, several of the Cerritos Firecrackers returned to play in the All Star version of the AYSO California State Championships against fresh all star teams from powerhouse regions of Tulare, San Gabriel and North Valley near Granada Hills that did not have to labor through two Saturday games. The Cerritos All Stars ran their hearts out, but it was too much to ask, as eventual champions Tulare defeated them in the semifinal and North Valley edged them out in the third place game. Nevertheless, for these Firecracker players, two state medals in a single season is a rare accomplishment statewide.
The All Star squad also featured Rebecca Hobson, who scored twice on Sunday, Vanessa Marquez, who scored in the consolation game, Serrina Terrazas-Lopez, Eileen Garcia, Erika Lizarraga and Vijaya George. The All Star team, winners of Area E and Section 11 titles, won eight games, tied once and loss three of 12 games toward their fourth place finish statewide from among 250 All Star teams. Sign-ups for the Cerritos AYSO Region 54 Fall 2011 season will take place in the summer. For more information visit the region’s internet site at www.ayso54.org.
National identity politics
Re: Cerritos City Council elections
Poor Mayor Cho. According to Ken Cha, if only the voters of Korean nationality had not been confused in the recent city council election, our mayor would have probability received the most votes. How petty is that?
I for one am getting tired of national identity politics, which seem to consume far too many who enter the political process. I consider Cha’s argument to be childish and demeaning to those voters of Korean nationality. As citizens who have met naturalization requirements, I believe the voters who received Korean language ballots in the recent election are smart enough to realize no one can be forced to vote for someone they don’t even know.
Without documentation, Cha asserts “our estimate is that this caused almost half, up to 1800, to vote for three candidates contrary to their intention. Implicit in Cha’s argument is his assumption that these voters would only vote for Cho and no others on the ballot. Cha’s argument also implies that these voters would have selected Cho because of his nationality, not based on job performance. Isn’t it time for Ken Cha and others of similar mindset to join the larger community of Americans and stop this nonsense?
I sincerely hope Mayor Cho did not approve of Cha’s behavior in this matter; however, Cho’s comment “I don’t want this to be a problem in future elections” is of concern to me.
Gary A. Lee, Cerritos
Poor Mayor Cho. According to Ken Cha, if only the voters of Korean nationality had not been confused in the recent city council election, our mayor would have probability received the most votes. How petty is that?
I for one am getting tired of national identity politics, which seem to consume far too many who enter the political process. I consider Cha’s argument to be childish and demeaning to those voters of Korean nationality. As citizens who have met naturalization requirements, I believe the voters who received Korean language ballots in the recent election are smart enough to realize no one can be forced to vote for someone they don’t even know.
Without documentation, Cha asserts “our estimate is that this caused almost half, up to 1800, to vote for three candidates contrary to their intention. Implicit in Cha’s argument is his assumption that these voters would only vote for Cho and no others on the ballot. Cha’s argument also implies that these voters would have selected Cho because of his nationality, not based on job performance. Isn’t it time for Ken Cha and others of similar mindset to join the larger community of Americans and stop this nonsense?
I sincerely hope Mayor Cho did not approve of Cha’s behavior in this matter; however, Cho’s comment “I don’t want this to be a problem in future elections” is of concern to me.
Gary A. Lee, Cerritos
Dear Editor:
Lent, the 40-day period preceding Easter when Catholics and other Christians would abstain from meat and dairy products in remembrance of Jesus’ 40 days of fast and prayer before dying on the cross. Most Catholics still observe meatless Fridays during Lent . Today, meatless Lent brings the additional benefits of reducing chronic diseases, environmental degradation, and animal abuse. Those needing additional reinforcement can look forward to the end of March, and the Great American Meatout. Now in its 27th year, Meatout has grown into the world’s largest annual grassroots diet education campaign, with a thousand educational events in all 50 states and 32 countries
Several years ago, a local Meatout information table turned me onto a healthful, nonviolent diet of vegetables, fruits, legumes, and grains. Folks who don’t make it to a Meatout event can subscribe to a free colorful weekly "Meatout Mondays" e-newsletter containing a recipe, book or product review, health news, and inspirational story (www.MeatoutMondays.org).
Several years ago, a local Meatout information table turned me onto a healthful, nonviolent diet of vegetables, fruits, legumes, and grains. Folks who don’t make it to a Meatout event can subscribe to a free colorful weekly "Meatout Mondays" e-newsletter containing a recipe, book or product review, health news, and inspirational story (www.MeatoutMondays.org).
Replacing Mark Pulido on the ABCUSD Board
Prior to Mark Pulido's election to the Cerritos City Council, all 7 School Board members were from the City of Cerritos.
Students attending ABC come from the Cities of Artesia, Lakewood, Norwalk, Hawaiian Gardens and certain portions of Los Angeles County. It is time to open up a discussion of broader representation of all communities on the local school board. This is not to say that individual Board members are not doing a good job of representing all students. However, perception can play a great part in a student's learning experience and that is why some School Districts have renamed individual schools after Delores Huerta and Cesar Chavez.
At the present time, about one-third of students in ABC are Latino-Americans. It would be a good role model for students if someone from the latino community could be selected to replace Mark Pulido.
I understand that the process for replacing Mark Pulido will be taken up at the April 5 ABC Board meeting. It is hoped that Board members will seek input from all segments of the District prior to setting the guidelines for filling the vacant seat.
Charlie Ara,
Cerritos
Students attending ABC come from the Cities of Artesia, Lakewood, Norwalk, Hawaiian Gardens and certain portions of Los Angeles County. It is time to open up a discussion of broader representation of all communities on the local school board. This is not to say that individual Board members are not doing a good job of representing all students. However, perception can play a great part in a student's learning experience and that is why some School Districts have renamed individual schools after Delores Huerta and Cesar Chavez.
At the present time, about one-third of students in ABC are Latino-Americans. It would be a good role model for students if someone from the latino community could be selected to replace Mark Pulido.
I understand that the process for replacing Mark Pulido will be taken up at the April 5 ABC Board meeting. It is hoped that Board members will seek input from all segments of the District prior to setting the guidelines for filling the vacant seat.
Charlie Ara,
Cerritos
Publisher's Rant: Where is the outcry?
I listen to talk radio when in the office and could not believe the latest attempt by certain Governors to destroy our democracy. Think I am being paranoid, read on.
This week, the Michigan legislature passed and signed into law a bill that would permit Governor Rick Snyder (R) to basically fire elected city officials and replace them with “Emergency Financial Managers” (EFM) in any city or school district facing “financial difficulties”.
The law would include virtually every town, city, and school district in the state because if they aren’t bankrupt now they might be soon because… get this… the governor’s proposed budget cuts billions in aid to cities and school districts and has been approved by the legislature.
Two thoughts: how do you define financial difficulties and how does this pass constitutional muster?
The biggest question is who wants this? Certainly not ordinary Americans. This is one of the most shocking, Draconian, democracy-destroying measures in the history of this country.
Then who is behind it? It is the same ones who back Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, and Florida laws, all Republicans who were swept in by the Tea Party, the same Tea Party now regretting some of those they helped get elected. To many, including me, these are not Republicans, but people who were put in office by corporations, they only call themselves Republicans.
The new law empowers the governor’s EFM- which, by the way, may be a corporation - and allows them to fire duly elected local officials, cancel labor contracts and even dissolve entire communities and school districts. By the way, typical pay for an EFM is $400,000.
This is not a Republican, Democrat or Tea Party issue. This is a fundamental American issue and that should be crystal clear to each and every one of us.
Have you heard any protesting? There are some protest gatherings in Michigan complaining about the law, but these activities have been relatively small. Where is everyone else?
It doesn’t matter if you support unions or object to them; that is irrelevant – unless you happen to be a monarchist.
This is a group of Governors (who received major funding from corporations, Citizen United cleared the way) who are determined to implement a boilerplate, less democratic system serving big multi-national corporations and does very little for anyone else. It is truly shocking what they are attempting to do.
Good news? Yes. These guys are going to leave in their wake a level of distrust that will carry on for years and hurt the Republican Party. Approval polls relating to them in every one of the states are dropping like rocks, serious recall efforts are on in all states. Let’s hope they are successful.
This week, the Michigan legislature passed and signed into law a bill that would permit Governor Rick Snyder (R) to basically fire elected city officials and replace them with “Emergency Financial Managers” (EFM) in any city or school district facing “financial difficulties”.
The law would include virtually every town, city, and school district in the state because if they aren’t bankrupt now they might be soon because… get this… the governor’s proposed budget cuts billions in aid to cities and school districts and has been approved by the legislature.
Two thoughts: how do you define financial difficulties and how does this pass constitutional muster?
The biggest question is who wants this? Certainly not ordinary Americans. This is one of the most shocking, Draconian, democracy-destroying measures in the history of this country.
Then who is behind it? It is the same ones who back Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, and Florida laws, all Republicans who were swept in by the Tea Party, the same Tea Party now regretting some of those they helped get elected. To many, including me, these are not Republicans, but people who were put in office by corporations, they only call themselves Republicans.
The new law empowers the governor’s EFM- which, by the way, may be a corporation - and allows them to fire duly elected local officials, cancel labor contracts and even dissolve entire communities and school districts. By the way, typical pay for an EFM is $400,000.
This is not a Republican, Democrat or Tea Party issue. This is a fundamental American issue and that should be crystal clear to each and every one of us.
Have you heard any protesting? There are some protest gatherings in Michigan complaining about the law, but these activities have been relatively small. Where is everyone else?
It doesn’t matter if you support unions or object to them; that is irrelevant – unless you happen to be a monarchist.
This is a group of Governors (who received major funding from corporations, Citizen United cleared the way) who are determined to implement a boilerplate, less democratic system serving big multi-national corporations and does very little for anyone else. It is truly shocking what they are attempting to do.
Good news? Yes. These guys are going to leave in their wake a level of distrust that will carry on for years and hurt the Republican Party. Approval polls relating to them in every one of the states are dropping like rocks, serious recall efforts are on in all states. Let’s hope they are successful.
Cerritos Spring Festival Scheduled Apr. 29 at Cerritos Sports Complex
9The City’s popular Community Spring Festival will be held from Friday, April 29 to Sunday, May 1 at the Cerritos Sports Complex. Families are invited to attend and enjoy a variety of activities including food and game booths, rides, entertainment and a fireworks show. Admittance to the festival is free, although certain attractions require a nominal fee.
The festival will be held on Friday from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. All day ride wristbands will be available for $25. A sheet of 20 tickets costs $14 and individual tickets are $1 each.
Entertainment will feature local acts, community organizations and Cerritos Resident Talent Show participants.
A Taste of Cerritos, which offers food from various community organizations and local restaurants for a nominal fee, will be held from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Additional events on Saturday include a classic car display from noon to 4 p.m., a Town Hall area from 1 to 5 p.m. featuring information from various City departments, and the fireworks spectacular at 8 p.m. in celebration of the City’s 55th birthday. The Spring Dance Recital will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information, call the City’s Recreation Services Division at (562) 916-1254. If you are interested in volunteering for the festival, please call Heritage Park at (562) 916-8570.
The festival will be held on Friday from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. All day ride wristbands will be available for $25. A sheet of 20 tickets costs $14 and individual tickets are $1 each.
Entertainment will feature local acts, community organizations and Cerritos Resident Talent Show participants.
A Taste of Cerritos, which offers food from various community organizations and local restaurants for a nominal fee, will be held from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Additional events on Saturday include a classic car display from noon to 4 p.m., a Town Hall area from 1 to 5 p.m. featuring information from various City departments, and the fireworks spectacular at 8 p.m. in celebration of the City’s 55th birthday. The Spring Dance Recital will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday.
For more information, call the City’s Recreation Services Division at (562) 916-1254. If you are interested in volunteering for the festival, please call Heritage Park at (562) 916-8570.
Dr. Urban on Today’s Dentistry: Canker Sores
Many of us have experienced canker sores. Where do they come from, what are they, and what do you do about them?
In a nutshell we do not know exactly what brings on a canker sore. They appear in young adults more often and frequently arise during periods of emotional or physical stress.
The sores typically occur on the cheek lining, under the tongue, around the uvula, bottom of the mouth and in front of the tonsils. It is not uncommon to have several sores appear near each other. They are very painful and can reoccur without any warning.
They appear first as tiny “bubbles” or red spots. The middle of the lesion becomes necrotic and a grayish-white covering or scab covers the wound. The nerve endings are exposed and the underlying tissue is very raw. Pain is the primary feature and will last for 5-7 days. These sores will typically run their course in 14 days. They can reappear with extreme and exasperating frequency.
Under the microscope scientists have noticed an intense infiltration of inflammatory cells leading to the theory that these sores are an immunologic defect in the cellular immune mechanism. In other words a small patch of cells cease performing the functions that maintain their life.
What can you do about them? Since we do not exactly know what will create a canker sore you really cannot prevent them from occurring. If one does pop up the pain can be relieved with Aphthasol or Kenalog ointments. These are prescription medications that your dentist can prescribe. They are anti-inflammatory and are locally applied to the wound. More severe sores can be treated with high potency steroids such as Decadron.
Otherwise, you can wait until they subside. In the meanwhile keep them clean with hydrogen peroxide and covered with Zilactin (an over the counter oral wound dressing). I like Zilactin with Benzocaine since it numbs the sore and seals it off from spicy and irritating foods. Keeping the wound free of secondary infection is important so your dentist may prescribe an oral antimicrobial rinse such as chlorhexidine.
Canker sores can be confused with herpes and traumatic ulcers. Although herpes is reoccurring it typically does not appear inside the mouth. Likewise, traumatic ulcers usually have a memorable start date and do not reoccur (unless you repeatedly bite the same area).
I advise people with troublesome canker sores to seek pain relief from their dentist.
For answers to your dental questions, contact Douglas Urban, D.D.S. Cerritos, CA 90703 562 924-1523 www.DrDouglasUrban.com
In a nutshell we do not know exactly what brings on a canker sore. They appear in young adults more often and frequently arise during periods of emotional or physical stress.
The sores typically occur on the cheek lining, under the tongue, around the uvula, bottom of the mouth and in front of the tonsils. It is not uncommon to have several sores appear near each other. They are very painful and can reoccur without any warning.
They appear first as tiny “bubbles” or red spots. The middle of the lesion becomes necrotic and a grayish-white covering or scab covers the wound. The nerve endings are exposed and the underlying tissue is very raw. Pain is the primary feature and will last for 5-7 days. These sores will typically run their course in 14 days. They can reappear with extreme and exasperating frequency.
Under the microscope scientists have noticed an intense infiltration of inflammatory cells leading to the theory that these sores are an immunologic defect in the cellular immune mechanism. In other words a small patch of cells cease performing the functions that maintain their life.
What can you do about them? Since we do not exactly know what will create a canker sore you really cannot prevent them from occurring. If one does pop up the pain can be relieved with Aphthasol or Kenalog ointments. These are prescription medications that your dentist can prescribe. They are anti-inflammatory and are locally applied to the wound. More severe sores can be treated with high potency steroids such as Decadron.
Otherwise, you can wait until they subside. In the meanwhile keep them clean with hydrogen peroxide and covered with Zilactin (an over the counter oral wound dressing). I like Zilactin with Benzocaine since it numbs the sore and seals it off from spicy and irritating foods. Keeping the wound free of secondary infection is important so your dentist may prescribe an oral antimicrobial rinse such as chlorhexidine.
Canker sores can be confused with herpes and traumatic ulcers. Although herpes is reoccurring it typically does not appear inside the mouth. Likewise, traumatic ulcers usually have a memorable start date and do not reoccur (unless you repeatedly bite the same area).
I advise people with troublesome canker sores to seek pain relief from their dentist.
For answers to your dental questions, contact Douglas Urban, D.D.S. Cerritos, CA 90703 562 924-1523 www.DrDouglasUrban.com
Are our senior citizens hooked on drugs?
Do you know what the fastest growing US population is? Here’s a hint. This population is expected to double in the next twenty years. If your answer was adults over 65 years old you were correct. What age group do you think uses more psychoactive medications than any other group? That’s right, our seniors, and that’s possibly your Grandma or Grandpa or even your Mom or Dad who take prescription medication on a daily basis.
According to a recent report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, as many as 1,800,000 Americans over the age of 65 may be dependent on Medicare-provided prescription drugs.
Which Drugs are being abused?
Our senior citizens currently are at risk of addiction from regularly using benzodiazepines or a group of central nervous system depressants such as tranquilizers Xanax, Klonipian, Valium, Ativan, and Librum; along with sleeping medications like Ambien, Holician, Calmane, and Restoril; muscle relaxants such as Soma, Flexeril, and Robaxsin; and alcohol. In addition, opiates and analgesics for pain relief such as Vicadin, Codiene, Oxicotin, Ultram, Morphine, and duragesics are put our seniors at risk.
What is the treatment?
Senior drug addiction is something most seniors thought they would not have to overcome. Withdrawal symptoms are devastating and a safe and slow withdrawal is protocol with a board certified physician trained in addiction medicine who has specific experience with senior addiction issues and medical needs.
Recognizing senior drug addiction is complicated. If you or someone you love is dealing with addiction, know detoxification is better than senility or death. It can be amazing to witness the cognitive improvement a patient will experience once you can assist him through the 3-5 hard days it takes to detoxify your grandmother or grandfather to get off this medication.
A Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist, ABAM, can treat these patients in an ambulatory setting and in the comfort of their own homes.
For referral to an addiction medicine specialist in your area call 1-800-813-4345 or go to www.askforadoctor.com
According to a recent report by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, as many as 1,800,000 Americans over the age of 65 may be dependent on Medicare-provided prescription drugs.
Which Drugs are being abused?
Our senior citizens currently are at risk of addiction from regularly using benzodiazepines or a group of central nervous system depressants such as tranquilizers Xanax, Klonipian, Valium, Ativan, and Librum; along with sleeping medications like Ambien, Holician, Calmane, and Restoril; muscle relaxants such as Soma, Flexeril, and Robaxsin; and alcohol. In addition, opiates and analgesics for pain relief such as Vicadin, Codiene, Oxicotin, Ultram, Morphine, and duragesics are put our seniors at risk.
What is the treatment?
Senior drug addiction is something most seniors thought they would not have to overcome. Withdrawal symptoms are devastating and a safe and slow withdrawal is protocol with a board certified physician trained in addiction medicine who has specific experience with senior addiction issues and medical needs.
Recognizing senior drug addiction is complicated. If you or someone you love is dealing with addiction, know detoxification is better than senility or death. It can be amazing to witness the cognitive improvement a patient will experience once you can assist him through the 3-5 hard days it takes to detoxify your grandmother or grandfather to get off this medication.
A Board Certified Addiction Medicine Specialist, ABAM, can treat these patients in an ambulatory setting and in the comfort of their own homes.
For referral to an addiction medicine specialist in your area call 1-800-813-4345 or go to www.askforadoctor.com
Friends of Arts Education Hosts Gala & Benefit Concert “An Evening Of Sweet Blues” With Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers Sat., April 16.
CERRITOS, CA – Singer and harmonica master Rod Piazza and his band The Mighty Flyers headline “An Evening of Sweet Blues,” a benefit gala and concert to support the Friends of Arts Education at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (FAE) on Saturday, April 16.
The evening offers two opportunities for enjoyment. The gala package includes a hosted reception and silent auction, followed by an elegant dinner catered by Choura in the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts’ theater and a live auction hosted by Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe.
The gala continues with a full performance by award-winning Blues veteran Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers. A concert-only option is also available. Tickets for the gala are $160 per person, while tickets for the concert-only option are $45-$35. The Gala begins at 5:00 p.m. For patrons choosing the concert-only option, the concert begins at 8:30 p.m.
Tickets for the Gala are on sale now at wwww.friendsofaecc.com or by calling (562) 916-1272. For those wishing to purchase tickets to the concert, call (562) 467-8818, or go online to www.cerritoscenter.com.
Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers delivers colorful and gritty Blues infused with Jazz, R&B, and good old-fashioned Rock. The band, which has won three W.C. Handy Awards for “Blues Band of the Year,” boasts a cadre of catchy songs that includes Snap Crackle Hop, Stranded, and Honey Bee.
The band features elite members of the Blues world, including Piazza’s award-winning pianist wife, Honey; acclaimed drummer Dave Kida; and renowned guitarist Henry Carvajal. The group’s notable albums include Thrillville, Keepin’ It Real, Here and Now, Tough and Tender, and Blues in the Dark. The FAE is an independent, non-profit organization that works in association with the City of Cerritos and the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. Its mission is to enhance education through the performing arts by offering Professional Development Workshops for teachers, grade-appropriate theater experiences for students, and in-class follow-up activities. FAE programs reach 30,000 – 40,000 students and teachers in the LA/OC area annually. Additionally, FAE grants scholarships to high school seniors who hope to pursue careers in the performing arts.
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