Little boy More support Egg hunt a has big heart for GOOD blast for kids See Page 7 See Page 12 See Page 7

Friday, April 17, 2009 Vol. 7 No. 52 8301 E. Florence Ave., Suite 100, Downey, CA 90240 Downey Latina DMOA and chasing her dreams Davies sued by former associate BY ERIC PIERCE, Jennifer’s sister, said. “I am CITY EDITOR blessed to have such a compassion- ate and talented sister in my life  Former business director alleges fraud, breach of DOWNEY – “American Idol” and am thankful that she has been isn’t the only hit television show to able to covey her talent to viewers contract in lawsuit. feature a rising star from Downey. across the nation.” Former Miss Downey Princess Andrade, 20, attended Gallatin tract and fraud, allegations against BY HENRY VENERACION, Jennifer Andrade is competing on Elementary, East Middle School, DMOA and Davies include unfair STAFF WRITER the current season of “Nuestra and graduated from Downey High business practices. Belleza Latina,” a Spanish-lan- School in 2006. She made Downey As director of business and DOWNEY – The Downey guage beauty competition – “with a High’s varsity cheer squad as a development, McGarr’s duties Museum of Art (DMOA) and its reality TV twist” – now airing on freshman and also played JV water included, but were not limited to, director, Kate Davies, are being Univision. polo. business and program develop- sued by its one-time director of Andrade left for tapings in In 2004, Andrade competed for ment, negotiations of program business and development, Anita Miami on March 1, family mem- Miss Teen Downey -- her first pag- and/or project contracts and agree- McGarr, for breach of contract and bers said. On the show, Andrade is eant competition -- and was named ments, market research and analy- fraud. competing with 12 other young a Princess. She was a Miss sis, and research regarding multi- The lawsuit was announced women for $200,000 in cash and a Downey Princess two years later. media platforms and technology. recently by the law firm of contract with Maybelline Andrade also won Miss One of her assignments was as a Tredway, Lumsdaine & Doyle LLP Cosmetics. Michoacan de California in 2008, capital campaign manager, later of Downey, who filed a complaint The winner will also become the held in Mazatlan, Mexico; was first known as a raffle drawing manager. on McGarr’s behalf on Feb. 10 at Latin American spokesmodel for runner-up in Miss Latina de According to her resume, Norwalk Superior Court. JCPenney, work as a TV personality California 2009 (also wining Miss McGarr has had years of experi- The suit alleges that McGarr is on Univision, and win a new car. Photogenic); and made the top 10 ence and involvement in the owed for professional services and The show airs Sundays at 8 in the Miss Turismo Latino film/TV industry and multi-media a guaranteed outstanding amount p.m. Similar to “American Idol,” International 2009 in Guayaquil, Jennifer Andrade, a former Miss Downey Princess, is competing on children’s educational markets. as stipulated in a consultant agree- one contestant is voted off every Ecuador. Univision’s “Nuestra Belleza Latina,” a Spanish-language TV compe- Davies has been at the helm as ment between the parties, to the week by members of the public, After attending Long Beach tition airing Sundays at 8 p.m. Photo courtesy Andrade family executive director of DMOA for a tune of at least $383,000. who cast their vote via phone or City College, Andrade transfered to number of years. The museum is The agreement, which was to text message. UCLA where she is majoring in mercials and infomercials. Sunday. known to be in the midst of devel- have lasted for two terms, the first Andrade has survived two Communications, family members Since she was chosen to com- “My family and I forsee a oping its “Blueprint for one from June 1, 2007 to June 1, eliminations and is now among the said. She worked as an entertain- pete on “Nuestra Belleza Latina,” bright future for Jennifer since we Sustainability” program primarily 2009, and the second term lasting Top 10 finalists. ment reporter last summer on the Andrade has been living in a have always believed that the basic in the form of a new green museum for another two years, was purport- Family members credit Telefutura show “Escandalo TV,” Miami mansion, and is not allowed success orientation is having an called DMOA@TheGlidehouse, edly entered into by Davies and Andrade’s drive and talent for her producing daily segments on to communicate with family or optimistic future,” Kenia Andrade designed to pursue educational McGarr on June 1, 2007 and subse- success. tabloid gossip. friends. said. “We will sustain our beliefs programs in sustainable and renew- quently approved by the DMOA “Jennifer embodies intelli- She has also worked as a print Meanwhile, her family is ask- with hopes that Jennifer can cot- able resources, energy conserva- board circa June 29, 2007. gence, grace, beauty and, above all, and swimsuit model, and has been ing the community to support ninue to exhibit her passion until tion and Eco-Green technologies to Davies declined to comment on perseverance,” Kenia Andrade, booked on national Spanish com- Andrade with their votes on the final show.” “support an educational hub of out- the lawsuit. reach programs” to the schools and According to the formal com- the public. plaint, McGarr submitted her resig- Tredway, Lumsdaine & Doyle nation from her position on Dec. senior partner Joseph Lumsdaine 18, 2008. Bluebell the pit and Raul Zermeno, Esq., were joint In addition to breach of con- filers of the suit. bull gets second Cut those long meetings leash on life short! BY ERIC PIERCE, home.” CITY EDITOR Bluebell was suffering from BY HENRY VENERACION, and the public. As a matter of com- severe abrasions and an advanced STAFF WRITER mon sense, this is a no-brainer. stage of mange when she was liter- DOWNEY – Bluebell, the 1 ½- What’s the use of making a presen- ally dragged behind a pick-up truck year old pit bull who was nearly t’s been a while since an arti- tation when, even with a micro- on her way to SEAACA last year. killed after its owner dragged her cle appeared in the Harvard phone, the presenter can barely be Her former owner, who was going by the leash behind a pick-up truck, Business Review about the heard? And as a rhetorical tool, to have Bluebell put to sleep, was has been transferred to a new shel- communication process. It isn’t one supposed to develop a arrested and charged with animal I ter in Santa Monica. has become a classic. good, strong voice to make sure cruelty. Karma Rescue – a “no-kill” For any effective communica- you get your point across? (You get Bluebell has fully recovered animal shelter – has taken control tion to take place, it said, three extra points for a sonorous voice). from her injuries, Reyes said. of Bluebell and will attempt to requirements have to be met: first, OK, the members of the City “Bluebell has kept her chin up place her in a permanent home. the speaker has to speak clearly Council, presumably after doing and beamed with love and joy “Our efforts to re-home her did and in a voice loud enough to be their homework, first listen, then every day she was with us here at not pan out for one reason or anoth- heard. Secondly, care must be they ask questions, then they vote. SEAACA” Reyes said. “She loved er; either the fence was too short, taken to have one’s message well- But at bottom theirs are speaking her treatments, her daily walks and the potential adopter had other articulated, leaving no room for roles. As elected officials, they she was always very gentle with dogs at home or they were not ambiguity. Thirdly, we must make advocate for their constituents’ her pet toys, which littered her dog ready for the lifelong commit- sure the listener hears and under- concerns. They discuss budget line run.” ment,” said Captain Aaron Reyes, stands the object of our speech. items. They argue about certain If you’re interested in adopting director of operations at SEAACA. There’s no more ideal setting provisions of this or that proposed Bluebell, call Karma Rescue at “Fortunately, Karma stepped up Bluebell greets Karma Rescue staff at SEAACA, while Sr. Animal than at City Council meetings resolution or ordinance. Indeed, it (310) 512-RUFF (7833). Photo courtesy SEAACA and offered to continue caring for Care Technician Frank Villa says goodbye. where the workings of the commu- is their business to talk. It is their her while searching for the perfect nication process as defined above duty to persuade. But it is also, so can be observed. Remember, the as not to unnecessarily waste the meetings provide a wonderful audience’s time, their duty to be opportunity for both holders of brief, to address the issue head on public office and those who must and not digress, not ramble. Police arrest bank robbery suspect speak in public to use their speak- The Council has important, and ing skills to achieve certain ends. substantial, business enough to And because they engage in take care of, that meetings should DOWNEY – Downey police bank and approached a teller win- number as the suspect drove away, Craig was arrested for bank discourse that affects the quality of be done with dispatch. (If you want have arrested a 30-year-old dow, where he simulated having a Wells said. robbery based on physical evi- life in the city, these people are to see how a meeting ought to be Gardena man for robbing the Bank handgun, said Sgt. Randy Wells of Based on surveillance video dence and positive identifications held to higher standards than usual. conducted, go to any Downey of America on Paramount the Downey Police Department. and information supplied by wit- from witnesses and the victim, When a department head or staff Unified School District board Boulevard in Downey. The man left with an undis- nesses, Downey detectives identi- Wells said. At the time of the rob- makes a presentation, it is clear that meeting, and you’ll see what I Mark Anthony Craig was closed amount of cash and fled to a fied Craig as a suspect. He volun- bery, Craig was on federal proba- they’re there to explain as carefully mean.) arrested for the robbery that vehicle he had parked near the tarily went to the Downey police tion for a previous bank robbery and as fully and as distinctly as See MEETINGS, page 5 occurred March 31 at about 11:25 bank, Wells said. A witness was station for questioning, according conviction. they can what there is to explain— a.m., police said. A man entered the able to get a partial license plate to Wells. both for the benefit of the Council Graciela Limon to speak at library Free events mark DOWNEY – Award-winning author Graciela Limon will speak and sign books at a free event sponsored by the Friends of the Downey City Library on Monday from 7-8:30 p.m. library celebration The program is part of a National Library Week celebration, April 20- 26. DOWNEY – The Downey City Library will celebrate National A native of Los Angeles, Limon is the author of six books, including Library Week with a variety of free events sponsored by Friends of the “Song of the Hummingbird” and “Memories of Ana Calderon.” Her latest Downey City Library. novel, “The River Flows North,” was published this month by Arte Established in 1958 by the American Library Association, the celebra- Publico Press. tion is observed by libraries across the country each April. Considered one of the key voices in contemporary Latin American fic- “National Library Week celebrates the value of books, reading and tion, Limon writes lyrical, dramatic novels about social justice, popular libraries,” said City Librarian Nancy Messineo. “Now is the perfect time religion, feminism and cultural identity. “Hummingbird” tells the story of to enrich your life by attending our programs.” Huitzitzilin, who goes from Aztec princess to slave and concubine during Monday, April 20 the Spanish conquest of Mexico. 7 p.m.: “Margaret Read MacDonald Storytelling Workshop for Limon is professor emeritus of U.S. Hispanic Literature at Loyola Adults,” City Hall Council Chambers. Marymount University. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Spanish 7 p.m.: “An Evening with Author Graciela Limon,” Cormack Room. Literature from Marymount College, a Master of Arts Degree from the Tuesday, April 21 University of the Americas in Mexico City, and a Doctoral Degree in Latin 10:30 a.m.: “Preschool Storytime with Mayor Pro Tem Anne Bayer,” American Literature from UCLA. ages 3-5, Cormack Room. Limon received a 2008 “Phenomenal Woman” award from Cal State 7 p.m.: “Story Plays for Children with Margaret Read MacDonald,” Northridge, an honor given to “individuals who have touched the lives of ages 3-12, Cormack Room. men and women in Los Angeles and around the world.” Wednesday, April 22 Copies of her book will be available for purchase and signing at the 10:30 a.m.: “Bilingual Storytime in Spanish & English,” ages 3-5, event. To register, call (562) 904-7360, ext. 132, or visit the library. Cormack Room. Thursday, April 23 3:30 p.m.: “Teen Open Mic and Poetry Slam,” ages 13-19, Cormack Children’s reading event April 25 Room DOWNEY – A reading event to help promote early literacy among 7 p.m.: “Alina Mendez and the Fiesta Dancers,” ages 3-12, Cormack children will be held April 25 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Downey Room. Memorial Christian Church parking lot. Saturday, April 25 Children from various grades will take turns reading sections from 8 a.m.: “Los Angeles Times Festival of Books Bus Trip to UCLA,” call their favorite books. Each child will read for approximately 10 minutes for reservations. before handing the book to the next child. This will continue until their For more information on any of these events, call the library at (562) particular book is finished. 904-7360, ext. 3. All books will be age-appropriate and chosen by the Downey City Library. Free fresh-baked bread will also be given away at the event. Free bus ride to Festival of Books Alina Mendez will entertain at the Downey City Library on Thursday, beginning at 7 p.m. For more information, call Shirley Johnson at (562) 862-2378. DOWNEY – The Friends of the Downey City Library will sponsor a Downey Memorial Christian Church is at Florence and Brookshire free bus trip to the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books on April 25. avenues. The festival offers lectures, author panels, storytelling and writing workshops by more than 400 authors. Also featured will be book signings, Spanish dancers visiting library cooking demonstrations and poetry readings. DOWNEY – In celebration of National Library Week, Alina Mendez Jewish National Fund rep to speak “This trip is ideal for book lovers who don’t wish to drive and park on and the Fiesta Dancers will perform at the Downey City Library on DOWNEY – Alyse Golden Berkley, spokesperson and representative the Westwood campus,” said City Librarian Nancy Messineo. “Everyone Thursday from 7-7:45 p.m. for the Jewish National Fund, will be the guest speaker at Thursday’s who enjoys great books, good food and entertainment will want to join Mendez, an award-winning local teacher, will present stories, music meeting of the Ezra Center for Mature Adults. us.” and dances from Mexico, Spain and Caribbean. The JNF was created in 1901 and incorporated in the U.S. in 1926 to The bus will leave at 8 a.m. from the library’s parking lot and return at “This lively performance with audience participation is perfect for support development in Israel. Today, the organization mainly focuses on 5 p.m. Bus passengers must sign and turn in a liability waiver upon regis- children ages 3-12 and their parents,” said Children’s Librarian Gina ecology, water conservation, tourism, and education. tration. Orello. “Be sure to arrive early to see this colorful program for the whole Registration begins at 9:45 a.m. at Temple Ner Tamid of Downey, Bus transportation and festival admission are free but some events family.” 10629 Lakewood Blvd. A catered kosher lunch will be served after the require advanced tickets. The excursion involves walking on the UCLA Seating is limited and show passes will be distributed 30 minutes prior program. Cost of the lunch is $6 for Ezra members and $7 for non-mem- campus and participants are encouraged to bring a sack lunch or lunch to the event, which is sponsored by the Friends of the Downey City bers. money. Library. For more information, call Miriam Brookfield at (562) 943-3170. For reservations, call (562) 904-7360, ext. 132, or visit the library. For more information, call (562) 904-7360, ext. 4. Embezzler gets 5 years in prison

 Gerald McAfee scammed Downey hospital out of $1.3 million, then fled to Thailand.

LOS ANGELES – Gerald plea agreement, the money was McAfee, the man convicted of placed in the brokerage account of embezzling more than $1 million a phony company. McAfee then from a Downey hospital two took control of the cash in the form decades ago, was sentenced last of bearer bonds and fled to Europe, week to five years in prison. prosecutors said. At sentencing, McAfee begged A tip led authorities to Thailand for mercy and asked U.S. District in 2007, where McAfee had mar- Judge Manuel L. Real to allow him ried and started a family under an Maria Pasillas, of Pomona, has announced the engagement of her to return to his family in Thailand. assumed name. daughter, Francisca Pasillas, to Rene Baez, son of Ricardo and “I am humbly pleading and McAfee spent eight months in a Rosario Baez of Los Angeles. Rene and Francisca are both educators begging for mercy – not for me, for Thai prison before he was extradit- and reside in Downey. They have scheduled a December wedding. my children,” McAfee said in ed to Los Angeles. He pleaded court, according to the Associated guilty to the charges last year in a Press. “The man you see before plea agreement that called for a Woman’s Club rummage sale you now is not the foolish man who five-year prison term, the AP DOWNEY – The Woman’s Club of Downey will host a rummage sale committed the crime in ’86.” reported. and swap meet April 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the club’s parking lot. Real rejected the request, say- McAfee told the court he spent Vendor tables are available for $30 each. ing “this man has not been truthful the money within five years of The sale will be held rain or shine. For more information, call Debra for most of his life.” embezzling it, and had been work- Miller at (562) 619-0269. McAfee, 66, embezzled $1.3 ing as an English teacher in million from College Hospital in Bangkok. Free mulch for spring gardening Downey in 1986. According to a The Downey Civic Light Opera has tapped Nicole Manly to portray DOWNEY – Downey residents can receive up to 32 gallons of mulch Anytime Annie in “42nd Street,” opening May 28 at the Downey for springtime planting at a free give-away tomorrow at the old Theatre. Manly previously appeared in DCLO’s productions of Albertson’s parking lot, 8320 Firestone Blvd. “South Pacific” and “Dames at Sea.” “42nd Street” plays through CrimeCrime WatchWatch CalMet Services is providing the mulch. Residents should bring their June 14. For tickets and information, call (562) 923-1714. own container. Friday, April 10: The give-away begins at 9 a.m. and ends at noon. For more informa- At 2:20 p.m. shots were fired in the area of Telegraph Road and tion, call (562) 259-1239. Dancers, actors sought for musical Birchbark Avenue. The suspect fled before officers arrived. No one DOWNEY – The Downey Civic Light Opera is holding auditions for was injured. Witnesses identified a possible shooter. Detectives are residents wishing to be a part of their latest production, “42nd Street,” investigating. Christian Club celebrates 41 years which opens next month at the Downey Theatre. DOWNEY – The Downey Christian Women’s Club will celebrate its Auditions will be held Monday and Thursday at First Baptist Church Saturday, April 11: 41st anniversary at an installation luncheon May 13 at Los Amigos of Downey, 8348 3rd St. Dance auditions are from 7-8:30 p.m.; all other At 12:15 a.m. a street robbery occurred in the area of Imperial and Country Club. roles will be auditioned between 8:30-10:30 p.m. The meeting, which is open to men, will feature a grandma’s attic and “42nd Street” opens May 28 and closes June 14. Woodruff. No weapon was seen. The loss was a bicycle. music by Richard Fox. Speaker Jan Patrizio will discuss “How to Discover Your Own Personal Oasis.” Fashion show, luncheon May 16 Sunday, April 12: The luncheon begins at 11:45 a.m. Cost is $13 and reservations are At 7:00 p.m. a street robbery occurred in the San Gabriel riverbed requested by calling Sonja at (562) 862-4347 or Jean at (562) 861-1114. DOWNEY – A luncheon with a fashion show and entertainment will at Florence Avenue. The loss was a bicycle and wallet. Minutes be hosted by the Woman’s Club of Downey on May 16. later, Downey police officers saw the suspects near the riverbed at The event is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are $30 each and all pro- Froggy to visit Downey library ceeds will go towards scholarships for Downey students. Telegraph Road, and the officers arrested the suspects, a 19-year- old and 24-year-old from the city of Pico Rivera. Both were DOWNEY – Froggy, the popular character in the picture book series For tickets, call Debra Miller at (562) 619-0269. by Jonathan London, will stop by the Downey City Library next week to charged with robbery. celebrate National Library Week. Source: Downey Police Department Froggy will greet children Tuesday from 10-10:30 a.m. and 6:30-7 p.m.; Wednesday from 10-10:30 a.m.; and Thursday from 6:30-7 p.m. Business Watch “Be sure to check out some favorite books in the ‘Froggy’ series, such as ‘Froggy Gets Dressed’ and ‘Froggy Learns to Swim,’” said Children’s meeting April 30 Librarian Gina Orello. DOWNEY – Downey business For more information, call the Children’s desk at (562) 904-7360, ext. owners are invited to learn about 4. emergency preparedness and local crime trends by attending a Rare Sinclair film to be shown Business Watch meeting April 30 DOWNEY – “Upton Sinclair,” a rare black and white, 16mm film that from 2-3 p.m. inside the council travels to the Monrovia home of the Pulitzer Prize-winning American chambers at City Hall. author, will be presented Thursday at 7:30 p.m. inside the John Downey Similar to Neighborhood Room at the Barbara J. Riley Community & Senior Center. Watch, business owners receive During the 39-minute film Sinclair talks about his run for California training in business security, effec- governor, his famous novel “The Jungle,” and the campaign launched tive crime reporting, burglary, against him by MGM head Louis Mayer and Los Angeles Times publisher theft, shoplifting, and more. Harry Chandler, who labeled Upton a socialist and communist. All Downey business owners Sinclair also speaks candidly about his family and his meeting with are invited. For more information, President Theodore Roosevelt. call the Chamber at (562) 923- The Downey Historical Society is presenting the film. The meeting is 2191 or the city at (562) 904- free and open to the public. 1895. Ad Council pushes lupus awareness

ighty percent of young at the U.S. Department of Health women in the United States and Human Services (HSS). Esay they have little or no “Through this campaign with the knowledge of lupus, according to a Ad Council, we can significantly national online survey released this increase awareness and help week by the Ad Council. women achieve early diagnosis, In an effort to raise awareness which will give them the greatest of lupus among women who are at chance for improved health and greatest risk for the disease, the long-term survival.” U.S. Department of Health and Without intervention, lupus can Human Services’ Office on lead to tissue damage, organ fail- Women’s Health is joining Ad ure, disability, and in many cases, Council to launch a national multi- death. The disease can have a wide media public service advertising range of symptoms, including (PSA) campaign to address the dis- fatigue, hair loss, painful or ease. swollen joints, fever, skin rashes The PSA includes a testimonial and kidney problems. However, in from Artranese Brown, of Downey, the majority of people who are liv- who shares her personal struggles ing with lupus, early and effective with lupus, including years of undi- treatment can minimize symptoms, agnosed symptoms and the physi- reduce inflammation and pain, help cal and emotional toll lupus has maintain normal functions and pre- had on her. vent the development of serious The campaign was unveiled complications. recently by Acting Surgeon “I took my symptoms seriously General Steven Galson and model and was able to get diagnosed and Mercedes Yvette. The PSAs were start treatment early. As a result, distributed to media outlets nation- I’ve been able to lead a healthy wide. life,” explained Yvette, a Lupus Lupus is a serious national Foundation of America spokesper- health problem, affecting as many son. “Taking care of myself is all as one of every 200 Americans, about finding the right balance – according to the Lupus Foundation the right doctors, the right meds, Downey resident Artanese Brown is featured in a national pub- of America. Ninety percent of the right people and the right work- lic service advertising campaign aimed at raising awareness of those with the disease are women out.” lupus. and it is three times more common “Our research found that lupus among minority women. is not listed among the top health As a chronic auto-immune dis- concerns for women and many ease, lupus causes the immune sys- have minimal knowledge of the Yard sale to benefit tem to mistakenly attack the body’s disease,” said Peggy Conlon, pres- own healthy cells and tissue as ident and CEO of the Ad Council. though they were foreign invaders, “By increasing the level of aware- boy with tumor such as bacteria or viruses. It is one ness and understanding about lupus of the least recognized diseases and and its symptoms, we can encour- DOWNEY – Loretta Mulholland knows the pain associated with a one of the most difficult to diag- age women to seek a medical eval- family member battling cancer. Two years ago, her grandson, Warren High nose. It is an inflammatory disease uation early so they can take con- School graduate T.J. Peacock, died after a courageous battle with brain that can attack many body systems. trol of the disease and reduce their cancer. The new PSA campaign prima- risk for serious complications.” As Peacock battled the disease, Mulholland witnessed the community rily aims to reach minority women The Ad Council’s survey found offering their help and support. Now, she hopes to do the same. at childbearing age (18 to 44), who that only 18 percent of women are Mulholland will host a garage sale April 24-26, where she plans to are at greatest risk of lupus. The personally concerned about lupus. raise money for the family of Brett Barta, a 9-year-old boy from objective is to help these women The majority of respondents Bellflower who has been diagnosed with a tumor in his spine. understand the disease and its expressed concern about other According to a MySpace posting soliciting help, Brett was admitted to effects and help them identify early health-related conditions, includ- Loma Linda Children’s Hospital last summer after an MRI revealed the warning signs so they can ask their ing cancer (67 percent), depression tumor. Brett underwent surgery and was progressing through physical doctor for a medical evaluation, (61 percent), high blood pressure therapy when a second MRI in December revealed that the tumor was still officials said. (58 percent), diabetes (57 percent) present. “Despite its prevalence in the and arthritis (52 percent). Brett does not have insurance and his parents were laid off from their United States, lupus is rarely dis- Approximately 29 percent could jobs, the posting said. cussed and often misunderstood not correctly define lupus as an The yard sale will be held April 24-26, starting at 8 a.m. each day. among women in our country,” autoimmune disease, and 31 per- Donations of clothes and furniture are also being accepted for the sale. The said Dr. Wanda Jones, deputy assis- cent were not aware that women of sale will be held at 7505 Sarabeth St., between Rives Avenue and Old tant secretary for women’s health childbearing age are most at risk. River School Road. Meetings: Let’s get Israel/Palestine relations discussed NORWALK – Dr. John Haas, history professor at Cerritos College, will host the Olive Tree Initiative (OTI) from UC Irvine on April 22 from 2-3:30 p.m., where they will deliver an interactive discussion on their on with our lives. recent trip to Israel/Palestine. The campus of UC Irvine has a history of clashes between pro-Israeli Continued from page 1 and pro-Palestinian students. The OTI is comprised of student leaders from Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Druze and unaffiliated backgrounds. Last Some successful CEOs have been known even to conduct their meet- year, the students traveled to Israel/Palestine “to find out for themselves ings standing up. They’ll do anything to speed up their sessions, so they what is going on.” can get on with their work, with their routines, with their lives. The forum is free and open to the public. A one-day parking permit is The listening public raise their voices to be heard, too. Usually, they $1. complain about this or that issue. At times they want some action to be The conference, which will be held inside Cerritos College’s Wilford done, for their or their neighbors’ benefit. Often, their presentations suffer Michael Library and Learning Resource Center, will also be streamed live from lack of organization, proper emphasis, force. Why is the political online at www.3cmediasolutions.org. landscape filled with lawyers? Because of their training in logic, in the For more information, call Haas at (562) 860-2451, ext. 2726. law, in rhetoric! They are expert at preparing a brief, they took pains to learn how to speak! (If their diction is not up to par, or if their delivery leaves something to be desired, they work on it. It’s the same with Olympic star to deliver speech Demosthenes, or Cicero, or Lincoln. It took them years to hone their NORWALK – Olympic medalist Brenda Villa will deliver the com- speaking skills). OK, we’ll never be like them. But at least we, every last mencement address when Cerritos College hosts its graduating cere- one of us, should try to improve our speech (OK, rhetorical) skills. It’s not monies May 16 at Falcon Stadium. impossible. Villa, who grew up in Commerce, has played on the U.S. water polo It’s a joy to see and hear holders of public office, or those who must team in the last three summer Olympics and has won two silver medals speak in public, with a modicum of these speech skills. There’s a whole and one bronze medal. She served as team captain the last four years. range of them, with each latticed with a host of syntactical and stylistic Villa scored 11 goals in the 2007 FINA World Water Polo nuances. For my money, it’s well worth the effort to look them up or brush Championships, helping Team USA win first place. She also helped lead them up. the team to the 2007 Pan Am Games that qualified them for the Beijing Then perhaps attending the meetings at City Hall can be fun. Olympics last year. Letters to the editor may be submitted by writing to The Downey Patriot, The commencement ceremony will be Cerritos College’s 52nd and 8301 E. Florence Ave., Suite 100, Downey, CA 90240 or by e-mail to begins at 5 p.m. The Board of Trustees will present degrees and certifi- [email protected]. Letters may be edited for style and/or con- Students make most cates earned during the 2008-09 academic year. tent. Letters must include a full name and address for verification. of spring break LONG BEACH – Even before heading to New Orleans on an “Alternative Spring Break,” Cal State Long Beach senior Nadine Henley Prop 1A no answer for state’s fiscal woes knew she was heading to a truly devastated area where visitors’ emotions Contributed by Gabriella Holt can often get the best of them when they see the remaining destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. hen it comes to fiscal responsibility the California legislature Still, she wasn’t completely prepared for what she saw and experi- crafters of Prop 1A describe it as “budget stabilization and reform.” has no credibility as shown by its all time low public approval enced on the week-long sojourn. In actuality, Prop 1A doubles the taxes already imposed by the rating of 21%. Why would Californians consider voting for the Henley was one of 35 students, faculty and staff from California State W Legislature in this last “budget deal.” Your raised income taxes, sales Prop 1A ”spending reform” measure, drafted by the same government University, Long Beach (CSULB) who made the trek to Louisiana. The taxes, almost doubled car tax, will be extended another two years if Prop body that created this budget mess, which only adds to the recent largest group members did not use their Spring Break to hit the beach or the 1A passes. The tax credit of $200 per year per child for dependent children tax increase in American history? slopes, lay in the sun or just relax in preparation for the end-of-the-school- will be eliminated. The average California family can expect to pay $1000 Prop 1A purports to create a “Budget Stabilization Fund” (rainy day year push. Rather, they used their time off to help others, and they did it more in yearly taxes. fund), which requires the state to set money aside during surplus years to laying down a roof, putting up interior walls and working on exterior sid- Proposition 1A is like letting the fox guard the henhouse. It gives irre- use during deficit ones. If only it were that simple… ing. sponsible politicians a bigger taxpayer treasure chest through a two-year The governor, through executive order, can stop fund transfers any- “Hurricane Katrina hit the area nearly four years ago, but there were tax extension giving greater payout for poor performance. time. So much for the rainy day fund set aside. Then there is the issue of still so many abandoned homes and businesses. I thought the situation Prop 1A “reforms” do nothing to solve the State’s structural deficit the spending limit. would be a little better by now,” said Henley, a senior sociology major spending and make problems even worse by burdening already struggling The language of Prop 1A allows legislators to increase the spending who graduates from CSULB in May. “To me, they (the empty homes and Californians with higher taxes. Promised as only temporary, just like the limit by imposing new taxes and fees. No true spending limit, no true businesses) were a constant reminder to the people of the tragedy that they sales tax introduced around World War II, history has shown that tempo- spending discipline. Prop 1A does nothing to address the structural deficit all went through.” rary tax is an oxymoron. Vote No on Prop1A, May 19th. built into the budget process. More fancy footwork with no real change. But it was the spirit of the people who returned to the devastated area Gabriella Holt, a former 54th Assembly District candidate, and Palos How about Prop 1A’s ballot language, which barely mentions the mas- and are working to rebuild their lives there that inspired Henley over the Verdes Peninsula School Board member, is president of Citizens for sive tax increases? Knowing that voters won’t support tax increases, course of the week. California Reform and a Los Angeles County Probation Commissioner. “It was amazing to see the people so full of life despite the hardships they are facing, and it was wonderful to hear the thanks and appreciation in person from the survivors of the area,” she explained. “Additionally, working alongside a survivor from one of the most hard-hit environments IBM studies demand for smarter railways was phenomenal, just experiencing that underlying faith.” This is the fourth straight year that CSULB students, faculty and staff ccording to a study released Thursday by IBM, increasing demand IBM developed this report to help governments and railroad compa- have gone to Louisiana, but the first two years were trips to Lake Charles, on rail systems in the U.S. and around the world will dramatical- nies better understand and address the challenges facing both passenger La., an area in the southwest portion of the state that was devastated by Aly strain existing rail infrastructure. The study, "The Smarter and freight rail systems. Building these modern railroad systems requires Hurricane Rita. And for the second year in a row, CSULB President F. Railroad," analyzes new approaches to modernize and build high-speed information to be shared across the rail network and among many differ- King Alexander joined the group later in the week for a couple days of rail networks globally, such as those announced this week by President ent stakeholders, including the rail company, shippers, car owners, travel “hammer time.” Obama. agents, municipalities, intermodal carriers and customers. The 2009 CSULB Alternative Spring Break team worked with Habitat Findings from the report indicate that the top key challenges in the IBM is building intelligent transportation systems around the world to for Humanity’s Collegiate Challenge Program, which provides opportuni- development of better rail systems, cited by the world's leading global rail help cities manage traffic congestion, improve urban environmental con- ties for college students to spend a week building a house in partnership executives, were capacity and congestion; operational efficiency and reli- ditions and increase economic competitiveness. These systems leverage with Habitat for Humanity affiliates. ability; structural and competitive issues; and safety and security. The business consulting, advanced transportation analytics, Research, super- Arriving late in the afternoon on Sunday, the students received a tour report also highlights emerging technologies that will help rail companies computing and new sensor networks. These projects include smart trans- of the greater New Orleans area on Monday – the good, the bad and the better instrument, analyze and manage rail networks and equipment in portation initiatives in China, The Netherlands, Stockholm, Brisbane, ugly — including the wards most devastated by Hurricane Katrina, the real-time. The full report, "The Smarter Railroad," can be found online. Singapore, Dublin, London and other locations around the world. levees that gave way to the rising waters and, of course, the other more "The global rail industry in 2009 and beyond will struggle to meet the IBM's smart rail projects involve software and services designed to “touristy” sites of New Orleans — Bourbon Street, the French Quarter, increasing demand for freight and passenger transportation, while aging collect and analyze data gathered from devices on trains, tracks, stations etc. systems and infrastructure complicate the problem," says Keith Dierkx, and other assets to improve the speed, safety, and reliability of rail serv- From Tuesday through Friday, the work day began at 7:30 a.m. and director of IBM Global Rail Programs. "However, rail companies around ice. For example, Netherlands Railways, one of the busiest national rail- lasted to about 3:30 p.m. as the group worked on four homes in the the world are starting to apply new technologies that will help them build way networks in Europe, is using IBM software to manage more than Musicians’ Village area of New Orleans. Members of the group also high-speed rail systems that more efficiently move people, are more cost 5,000 trains in the Netherlands through a network of 390 stations and worked two full days at the Habitat ReStore Store, unloading a dozen effective, and make more intelligent use of all rail assets, from tracks to 2,800 kilometers of track. trucks of goods and materials and organizing all the merchandise in the trains. IBM is already working with railroads to build these smarter sys- The smart transportation system improves the on-time performance for store. tems around the world." more than one million passengers each day by more accurately matching To take part in the Alternative Spring Break, CSULB students were Data indicates that $300 billion will be spent globally to upgrade, the number of trains in service to expected user traffic. Netherlands required to take a class – “Political Science Special Topics 493: Politics, expand and initiate railway networks during the next five years. These Railways has been able to improve its operating efficiency by as much as Culture and Disaster.” Taught by Liberal Studies Professor Dan investments are designed to build a new rail infrastructure that can meet six percent, netting the railway a cost savings of more than 20 million euro O’Connor, the course examines the events surrounding Hurricane Katrina dramatically increasing rail capacity demand over the next two decades. annually. and its impact on the Gulf Coast and the rest of the nation with a particu- Even meeting current demand requires that nearly 40 cents on every rev- To view IBM's Institute for Business Value Paper, "The Smarter Railroad," lar emphasis on the city of New Orleans. enue dollar is spent maintaining the rail system. go to www.ibm.com/travel/smarterrailroads “The most important thing I took home with me from this experience is not to take anything for granted and to be the change I wish to see,” Henley said. “I found myself being grateful for our cold showers because, yes, they were ice cold constantly, but those in the storm didn’t even get Don’t run from your income tax woes to shower.” unning from the IRS is like the postman running from a big dog. You “The economy is down,” Brewster said. “People are losing jobs. They Rcan run, but eventually it will catch up to you and bite you on the leg. do not have the funds available to pay off back taxes owed. However, the But it doesn’t have to be that way. Michael Brewster, certified tax pro- government is in bail-out mode, and needs to borrow trillions to offset fessional and author of the book “The Ultimate Straight Shooters Guide to those costs. In addition, Congress is passing massive tax cuts, so the IRS Negotiation with the IRS to Resolve Your Problems,” advocates being is trying to collect back taxes from citizens at record speed to help offset proactive about your tax problems. the country’s current expenses.” “The more you run from the IRS, the worse it could be for you in both One of the more serious issues is the implied promises made by the the short-term and the long-term,” he said. “The IRS can take your house, large chain tax preparers who spend billions in TV ads touting their serv- it can garnish your wages, and it can make it impossible for you to main- ices. Tax preparers in the various franchises are typically not credentialed tain your standard of living. Dealing with them, however, can save you to be able to represent taxpayers. They can only assist with specific mat- money and make your life a lot easier.” ters on the returns that they personally prepared. Learning and understanding what options are available to resolve a tax “People are told via various commercials that they can resolve their tax matter with the IRS is as critical as having a health plan or maintaining a problems for pennies on the dollar,” he said. “They do not learn until it is steady job. It allows people to find and communicate with the necessary too late that they did not qualify for the program and they still owe the help to resolve their tax matter, according to Brewster. entire tax amount. The taxpayers also end up paying much more than they “To deal with the IRS, the taxpayer must have an understanding of should have.” what options are available,” he said. “If they do not have this understand- Michael Brewster began his career when he enlisted in the U.S. Marine ing and/or seek the necessary help, they will pay more than they need not Corps, continuing into the military space programs. He has a Bachelor’s to mention the stress they will endure.” degree in Business Management, and has attended the American Academy Brewster also believes that now is a vital time to address this issue, of Tax Practice where he focused on Advanced Tax Law and IRS because the government is going into overdrive to collect money owed by Procedure. tax dodgers. SPEED BUMP DAVE COVERLY

On This Day...

April 17, 1492: Christopher Columbus receives permission from Spain’s Queen Isabella to sail in search of an ocean passage to Asia. 1790: Benjamin Franklin, one of our nation’s Founding Fathers, dies in Philadelphia. He was 84. 1951: Mickey Mantle makes his major league debut with the New York Yankees. 1961: A group of about 1,500 CIA-trained Cuban exiles launch the Bay of Pigs, an unsuccessful invasion to overthrow the government of Fidel Castro. 1964: Ford unveils the Mustang. 2001: All-time home run king Barry Bonds hits his 500th career homer. Easter Eggstravaganza Shawn Goodner By: Helena Park, Intern By: Britawnya Craft, Intern On Tuesday come up with On Saturday library. Furman afternoon, bigger projects, April 11th park provided SEAACA said Furman park several different received a won- Hernandez. “If held their annual services children derful gift from he can compre- Easter eggstrava- found quite inter- Shawn M. hend such a big ganza. The event esting. 8 year old Goodner, a 7 project at took place from Karla Gomez year old boy seven, just 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., states, “I got my who collected imagine what residents from all face painted and donations of he can do in over the city I took a picture blankets, sheets, just five were in atten- with the bunny.” and towels. years… he’s dance. The main Downey Goodner, a going to just event was the princesses were first grader at excel.” Easter egg hunt in attendance at Downey SEAA- that took place at the event, pro- Christian CA was grate- noon, there were viding young and School, began ful for all the three arenas sep- old children with this project last donations they arated by age. face painting. year to help sup- received. They Children zero There was also port the animal are always will- through four had an arts and crafts shelter in ing to accept their own area, section located at Downey. His any donations children five the basketball dream of becom- that would help through eight court, a picture ing a veterinari- them out such had a spot, and area where the an is what trig- as blankets, finally kids from special guest gered him into comforters, nine through included the starting this proj- Photo by: Helena Park towels, news- twelve received Easter bunny, ect. With the papers, toys, their own area as and also a great support of his grandparents, young boy would think of all and kitty litter. well. At the end bounce house friends, neighbors, and school, he this… he really has potential to of the hunt, all Photo by: Paul Heidecker (jumper). managed to collect over 15 bags of children received Downey resident donations. DVD RELEASES FOR prizes. 3 year old Downey resident event can consist of anything from Lorena Gomez states, “[I was] Goodner amazed Aaron Reyes, Kaleigh Wright stated, “I’m going 200-500 people. Aspire Volunteer relieved, it’s nice.” Overall, the the Director of Operations at April 21 to find all the eggs, I want a Dora and Furman park worker David event had a wonderful turn out, SEAACA, by putting together such toy.” Perez states,” Usually about 500 with at least 400 people in atten- a meaningful donation for their Frost/Nixon The prizes consisted of candy, people [attend], but depends on the dance. Another year kicked off animals all on his own. games and toys. Not only were weather.” with out a hitch for Furman park, “The blankets, comforters, and Notorious Downey residents but children Attendees of the event found and children were primarily happy towels are very useful because they The Wrestler from surrounding cities also out about Furman’s egg hunt to take a picture with their favorite go to the injured, sick, and nursing Into the Blue 2: The Reef attended. The usual turn out for the through schools and the Downey fuzzy bunny. mothers,” said Vicky Hernandez, Ron White: Behavioral Problems the Adoption Manager at SEAA- My Own Worst Enemy: The Complete Series CA. “Donations are great because Allison Iraheta: we go through so many blankets and towels and it’s what keeps us Makes Top 6? going.” At SEAACA, Goodner was By: Bridget Sagrero, Intern able to see how his donations Allison Iraheta hit the in hopes that the judges would use be a little different because of the would be used for the animals and “American Idol” stage again on their only save of the season on judge’s save and instead of having he was able to witness actual vet- Tuesday, performing hit song “I him and keep him in the one person leave, they will be erinarians doing their jobs. He was Don’t Want To Miss a Thing,” by competition. He sang Bryan elimination two contestants. I am also given the opportunity to walk Aerosmith. Adams’ “Have You Ever Really almost 100 percent sure that a dog and learn more about the This week being “Movie Loved A Women,” and after he was Iraheta will not be part of those needs and how to care for animals. Week” the top seven contestants done the judges saved him from two, but I will have my fingers Goodner’s grandmother, Mary DVD RELEASES FOR got to work with Quentin elimination leaving a top seven crossed for her and keep voting for Hauk, has been a tremendous sup- Terantino. Terantino was a guest again. her if she keeps performing as port for Goodner and his project. judge on “Idol” back in season Next week the competition will amazingly as she has been. By always being his constant com- April 28 panion, she helped guide Goodner three, and is now well known for Bride Wars his films. His goal was to give the in setting this project up. She group advise on how to perform believes that this is a great opportu- S. Darko: A Donnie Darko Tale their songs to the audience and nity for him because it will teach The Uninvited judges and truly deliberate. After him the virtue of giving and shar- JCVD ing. having his one-on-one with Iraheta, Spin City: Season 2 he felt she was not fully “I’m astonished that such a performing to her potential. Iraheta performed amazingly, starting off in the center of the stage and as the song picked up put so much emotion into her song and passion not seen before. She still seems to amaze me and the judges with her voice. “Idol” judge Paula Abdul went on to compare her to Adam Lambert, another contestant, saying that she possesses the same “special sauce” he does in authenticity. Lambert is my favorite contestant next to Iraheta and to be compared to him by Abdul was Iraheta’s biggest complement yet in my eyes. Simon Cowell another judge went on to say that she was the girl’s only hope left in the competition and that he could see her going all the way to the end and I completely agreed. Cowell’s and my own predictions of Iraheta making it all the way to the end reached one step closer to becoming true. On Wednesday’s show she was the first to be saved and made it to the next week’s show. With that said the bottom three consisted of Anoop Desal, Lil Rounds, and Matt Giraud. Last week both Desal and Rounds were part of the bottom three but got lucky when the votes came in just enough to save them. Dasal like last week made the cut and left Rounds and Giraud left in the bottom. Before Rounds and Giraud got the news of who else was saved Miley Cyrus hit the stage as a guest performer and sang her latest song “The Clime.” I strongly felt that Rounds would be going home but was wrong. With Rounds saved, Giraud gave his last performance Friday, April 17, 2009 Student Life The Downey Patriot 7 Standout pitching has Downey (unexpectedly) in first place

BY SCOTT COBOS, easy schedule to close out league and his head has maintained its size thanks, I just needed to confirm STAFF WRITER play. although if it were me putting up that the three teams just mentioned Obviously, there were some these insane numbers, my head, are ranked in CIF’s polls for n interesting development gross oversights when predicting otherwise known as my ego, Division III. has come to the attention the league’s outcome. The highly wouldn’t be able to fit through the According to the polls that Aof the Downey Patriot touted Ivory Thomas is doing what doorway. were released April 6, Downey was Sports Committee (of one) when it he’s expected to do batting .381 Thomas received a full scholar- unranked but mentioned as another comes to the case of the San with 23 runs scored, one homerun ship to Cal State Fullerton earlier in team on the rise and should be Gabriel Valley League baseball and seven RBIs, but there was no the school year. I wouldn’t blame ranked in the next set of polls after season. way anyone would predict Chris Munoz for standing in the school winning the season series with Munoz to completely explode sta- At the beginning, it was written library holding a pen and waiting Paramount and Gahr. Gahr was After finishing their season 12-0, the Ballers have been named the tistically at the plate and on the by the committee that Downey to sign letters of intent to other high ranked No. 2 but might slide down DJAA’s Frosh Division champions. The Ballers also went 12-0 last mound. would probably finish third or at profile baseball programs. a few spots, and the defending year. Pictured in the top row, left to right: Coach Daniel Gomez, Jay To give you an idea of how a 5- least compete for second place. This is only half of what he’s league champions Paramount were Moseback, Coach Lovel Johnson Sr., William Gomez, Chris Marrero foot-4 player turned from a pump- After the preview and predictions done for the team. While he’s a ranked No. 6. That’s three top-10 and Coach Ron Bautista Sr. Bottom row: Kai Vincent, Lorel Johnson, kin into a box score beast, last year were published, a certain sports huge asset for the team offensively, teams in the SGVL. Ron Bautista Jr., Nick Robles and Brian Cardenas. Not pictured are Munoz batted a pedestrian .229 writer who shall remain nameless, what he’s doing on the mound is It’s not easy to compete with Luis Medaris, Ife Kalejaiye and Jordan Mann. ahem, Scott Cobos, ahem, was with 22 runs scored and only five almost completely overlooked. that as the Bears are learning. The chewing the fat with one of the par- RBIs, not to mention the goose egg In a season where Downey silver lining among the clouds ents at a Downey game. that was put in the HR column. manager Jess Gonzalez basically though is this: in non-conference The parent at first was cordial This year, Munoz is batting admitted the starting pitcher for the play, they aren’t doing too badly. when she first heard who he was .487, scoring 19 runs, has 21 RBIs day was determined by drawing a Yes, a few games did get away but then quickly realized that this and five homeruns with two of name out of a New Era 59-50 ball from the Bears and their record sports hack, I mean writer, had pre- them coming in one game in back- cap, Munoz has risen to the top of should be better than what is dicted that her son’s team would to-back at bats. Let’s put these the 6-man rotation the Vikings shown, but they’re beating a few finish third. offensive numbers into perspec- have. No, you didn’t read that quality teams such as St. Bernard Elegantly, she said he was tive. incorrectly, the Vikings have had which is a very good team who is wrong. The counter argument was In a matter of one year, he’s six different players start a game. among the top teams in their that Paramount, the defending batting .200 points higher, has Last year, Munoz’s pitching league, and St. Monica, another champions and favorite to win almost equaled his run total from was almost non-existent. He only team that’s around the top of their league again, had just beat the last year in half the amount of appeared in one game and lasted division. Vikings 12-3 the week before. games, has increased his RBI total four innings. His ERA was so high The Bears were able to keep it Good argument at the time. Not four-fold in half a season and has that cosmonauts in the close with Paramount, a team that so much now. The Vikings, a team all of a sudden found a homerun International Space Station were gave the Vikings their only league who lost an ace pitcher in Nate stroke that had completely eluded scratching their head and saying blemish this year, won the games Coronado along with a couple him. what was that as it soared by them. that needed to be won against other seniors last year, all of a sud- Has anyone asked him to uri- So maybe it wasn’t that high, Dominguez and Lynwood, and beat den find themselves atop the stand- nate in a cup yet? I’m just kidding. but a 12.25 ERA is not good by any Cerritos earlier in the season. The Lil’ Ballers were runner-ups in the DJAA’s Mitey Mite Division. ings of the SGVL with a relatively The kid only weighs 140 pounds means. Also, in his only appear- While there’s probably a good The Lil’ Ballers lost only one game this season, finishing 11-1. Top ance, he received the only real chance the Bears will not make the row, left to right: Coach Thomas Lucas, Coach Lovel Johnson Sr., and number that matters: one loss. playoffs this year, manager Paul Coach Rodger Brewster Sr. Middle row: John Beeks, Jahveon This year he must have called Alvarez was right when he said Medaris, Steven George, Rodger Brewster Jr. and Anthony Lucas. his buddy San Francisco Giants’ that his team is headed in the right Bottom row: William Lucas, Danielle Marrero, Alexandria Lucas and pitcher and reigning Cy Young direction. Alec Dubane. Award winner Tim Lincecum and Compared to the disasters of asked “Dude! How do you throw the last few seasons, the Bears are Cajun fastballs, because after all starting to bounce back in the post- they are by-you, get it? Also, how Steve Fullerton era. Warren, tradi- Munoz emerges do you drop the hammer that is tionally a winning program, is your curveball all the while only finally starting to make progress. weighing about 30 pounds?” It’s possible that they’re still a cou- as staff ace In other words, his numbers are ple years away from winning any- off the charts because of the stuff thing like a playoff spot or a league BY SCOTT COBOS, favored rival in the division. he brings to the table. Munoz championship, but at least they’re STAFF WRITER The victory pushes Downey to throws hard and spots his fastball. heading in that direction. the front of the pack and the road to To keep hitters off balance, he Like the old proverb goes, DOWNEY – After a game ear- a championship looks much easier drops in a hard 12-6 curveball that you’re too deep in the forest to see lier in the year, Downey manager now that their schedule no longer travels along the same plane as his the trees. Maybe everyone’s too Jess Gonzalez was unable to give a features Paramount or Gahr. fastball. cozy with the SGVL that they don’t clear-cut answer when he was The Vikings’ next game will be The results? An ERA that can’t realize that Warren is a decent team asked who the ace of his pitching next Tuesday at Dominguez. Game be seen with the Hubble telescope too as they continue to prove it staff was. time is 3:15 p.m. (0.22), eight scattered hits in 31.2 with the good showing they’re hav- But the picture became clearer Warren innings, six wins and 39 strikeouts ing in the St. Paul Easter following another dominating per- Things are starting to turn that has Gonzalez saying to himself Tournament. formance by pitcher Chris Munoz Warren’s way after a sweep of “Who’s Nate Coronado?” The tournament is customarily when he shut out the defending San Lynwood last week and a couple There’s no question though known to have good teams in it and Gabriel Valley League champions wins in the St. Paul Easter tourna- who’s fueling Downey’s run at a Warren as of Thursday morning is Paramount 6-0 last Friday at ment. league title. Sorry Ivory. You’re 2-1. The loss probably eliminates Paramount. The Bears were able to take a still the man, no doubt, but Chris is them from winning the tournament Munoz has emerged as one of two-game set from the Lynwood killing it right now. but it looks as if they’re going to the elite if not the best pitcher in Knights beating them last week 14- Let me be the first to say that place somewhere in the top. the division now moving his record 0 on Tuesday and 16-1 last Friday, Warren might be getting a bad rap Is it possible that with a little to 5-0. What’s making this even and they have been playing well in for their sub-par season they’ve momentum the Bears could make a more incredible is the 0.22 ERA he the St. Paul Easter tournament been having in league. Like a bad late run in league play and perhaps has recorded throughout the sea- beating St. Bernard High School 6- ex-girlfriend’s excuse, it’s not you, take a few teams by surprise? As son. 1 and St. Monica High School 11- it’s me. In this case it’s not Warren, one sports writer learned last year The shutout is his second in a 5. it’s the league. after a Letter to the Editor from a row after he tossed one over Gahr While the Bears are struggling Like basketball, the Bears were Warren assistant coach chewed him just a week prior to his most recent in league play, their non-confer- unfortunate enough to play in an out saying the writer had no expe- performance. ence schedule has shown that they extremely tough division. Setting rience with baseball, even though Eyes are now shifting to the 5- can hang with tough teams and in aside the failing programs of that writer played the game for 15 foot-6, 140-pound senior as he was some instances beat them. Lynwood and Dominguez, they years of his life and correctly pre- just featured in a Press-Telegram Warren has a tough schedule have to play against Downey, dicted everything else in the sea- article and labeled as an emerging ahead of them when they resume Paramount and Gahr. son, anything is possible in this force in the Long Beach area as league play with Paramount com- Would you mind waiting a sec- game. ing to town next Tuesday to start a ond while I check something? OK, well. He also had a big day at the two-game series and Gahr to fol- plate with a 3-run triple and a RBI low the week after. double to help fuel the Vikings’ Paramount will be at Warren offense over what was to be a Tuesday at 3:15 p.m Travelogues come to a close ‘Music Man’ presented with ‘Sea to Sea in a Model T’ by Calvary Chapel kids DOWNEY – Calvary Chapel Christian School in Downey invites the community to their upcoming production of Meredith Willson’s “The CONTRIBUTED BY THE Music Man,” opening Thursday at 7 p.m. DOWNEY THEATRE The production will play three times only: Thursday at 7 p.m., April 24 at 7 p.m., and April 25 at 2 p.m. DOWNEY – Join Don and “The Music Man” cast includes more than 230 choral students. Each Fran Van Polen as they celebrate production will include a “special treat” from the school’s Culinary Arts the 100th anniversary of Henry department, and an art exhibit will be featured after each performance. Ford’s Model T Roadster traveling Tickets are $5 and are available after Calvary Chapel Downey servic- from the Puget Sound in es and in the high school and elementary school offices. The school is Washington State to the Eastern located at 12808 Woodruff Ave. For more information, call (562) 803- most town and lighthouse in 4076. America in their film “Sea to Sea in a Model T” presented this Sunday, April 19, in the Downey Theatre at 2:30 p.m. This film concludes the New Titles at the 2008/2009 “Armchair Adventure” Travelogue Series. It was 100 years ago that Henry Downey City Library Ford introduced the first Model T Ford. It was the car that changed America. No other product made in Fiction • “Cursed” by Carol Higgins Clark. Private investigator Regan this country would have such a “Sea to Sea in a Model T” closes out the travelogue series Sunday at the Downey Theatre. Photo by profound effect on the nation’s Vicki and Chuck Rogers Reilly moved from L.A. to New York City, but is called back to her economy as Henry’s Old Car! old stomping ground to help a young friend who believes her life has Soon, one out of seven workers in been cursed since birth. Henry Ford’s old car was meant for Van Polens were smitten. Bob screen Video Format. Some of America would be in the auto • “Hungry Woman in Paris” by Josefina Lopez. A journalist and those old roads. Brower’s system of large format their other digital productions are industry and half of all cars on the activist, Canela believes passion is essential to life; but lately it Enjoy the remarkable stories slides shown on multiple screens “Into the Unknown”, the story of road would have the name “Ford” seems to be in short supply. Cooking school in Paris is a sensual and and scenery along the way as Don was impressive to say the least. Lewis and Clark; “A Taste of Old written on them. and Fran Van Polen travel from The Van Polens, using this Holland”, a pilgrimage to the land spiritual reawakening that teaches her to savor the world around her. He would later build the largest “Sea to Sea in a Model T” telling technique, moved to the West of their ancestors and “Hawaii on • “I Can See Clearly Now” by Brendan Halpin. In 1972, four factory in the world, the Rouge the story of Henry Ford’s old car. Coast where they carried on the the Widescreen”. young, talented songwriters come together to create the music that River Plant outside Detroit. More Don and Fran Van Polen grew same tradition for many years. “Sea to Sea in a Model T” is the will define a generation’s childhood. than 100,000 people would work up in the Dutch community of Their travels have taken them from 10th and final travelogue of the • “The Renegades” by T. Jefferson Parker. Some say that outlaws there in one day. For the next 20 Grand Rapids, Michigan. Many the steaming jungles of New 2008/2009 season and the final no longer exist, that the true spirit of the American West died with years, Henry Ford would build times, they, as well as their parents, Guinea to the ancient streets of film of the “Armchair Adventure the legendary bandits of pulp novels Deputy Sheriff Charlie Hood more than 15 million Model T’s. would enjoy the “travelogue cul- Jerusalem, and the slums of Series.” The Downey Theatre staff knows nothing could be farther from the truth. Never were so many cars of one ture” which thrived so successfully Calcutta, not to mention the expresses their gratitude to the sub- • “The Story of a Marriage” by Andrew Sean Greer. Living in San style built than that old car. It was back in the 60’s. Don graduated grandeur of America. A highlight scribers of the series for their won- Francisco in 1953, Pearlie cares for her ailing husband and son. the automobile that put America on from Calvin College and later of those years was when one of derful support and patronage for wheels. Henry Ford claimed that When a stranger appears at her door, she begins to question her mar- attended the University of Arizona their productions, “Autumn Across these past 30 years. his Model T would be the last car riage and the husband she thought she knew. taking graduate studies in the field America” was selected as the fea- The film is on Sunday at 2:30 the country would ever need! of Criminology. ture program at the World p.m. in the Downey Theatre locat- Non-Fiction We’ve had at least two genera- With this background, he later Convention of the Photographic ed at 8435 Firestone Blvd. Tickets • “American Eve: Evelyn Nesbit, Stanford White, the Birth of tions of traveling in the fast lanes became a junior high math/science Society of America in Seattle for the last film may be purchased the "It" Girl, and the Crime of the Century” by Paula Uruburu. and freeways and it’s time to see teacher and school administrator where they received a standing on day of performance only begin- Model Evelyn Nesbit was the most photographed woman of her the country from the slow lane. for 10 years. Don always believed ovation. Their presentations have ning at 1:30 p.m. at the theatre box era—and the center of the scandalous Stanford White murder. Slow roads have a sense of discov- that if you can communicate with a been shown in some of the largest office. Adult tickets are $7 and • “The First Paul: Reclaiming the Radical Visionary Behind the ery; they tell us about the past and teenager, you can converse with venues in North America and fea- senior/student tickets are $6 (cash Church's Conservative Icon” by Marcus Borg. and John Dominic take us to places where real any other age group. tured at photographic conventions or check only). Crossan. Two top Bible scholars present a fresh perspective on early America lives. Driving that old car One night, in Waupun, along with the Kodak Cavalcade. For more information, please Christianity with this new view of a radical Paul. may not be the fastest way or the Wisconsin, they attended a trave- In the year 2000 they decided it call the theatre box office at (562) shortest; it may not be the easiest, • “Growing Up Again: Life, Loves and, Oh Yeah, Diabetes” by logue by Robert Brower called was time for change and they 861-8211, Monday through Friday, but it certainly is the best way. Mary Tyler Moore. With generosity of spirit and sly humor, Moore “Spring Captures Holland” and the switched to the Digital Wide- between noon and 4 p.m. presents the intensely private and sometimes startling story of her life with diabetes. • “Intelligence and How to Get It: Why Schools and Culture Count” by Richard E. Nisbett. Social psychologist Nisbett asserts Don’t let food allergies ruin a night out that intellect is not primarily genetic but is principally determined by societal influences. • “Mommywood” by Tori Spelling. The actress and author chroni- hile the average require special handling by the during their busiest days, when the “Dining out with food allergies cles her adventures as the mother of two small children. American family eats restaurant staff. staff will not have time to proper- is certainly a challenge,” explains Wout fairly frequently, for Avoid High-Risk Situations – ly deal with your special needs. Coss. “The secret to success is Visit www.downeylibrary.org and click on “New and Notable Books” the growing number of people Some restaurants have a particu- Speak to the Chef or advance planning plus clear com- to browse more titles who suffer from life-threatening larly high risk of cross-contamina- Manager – Find out exactly what munication with the appropriate food allergies dining out is often a tion, and are often best avoided ingredients are in the suggested members of the restaurant staff.” rare treat. altogether. Depending on what menu item. Then ask about the Linda Coss is also the author of When even a crumb-sized allergens you’re avoiding, this can ingredients of any other foods that two popular food allergy cook- piece of food can trigger a poten- include buffets and self-service the dish might come into contact books, “What’s to Eat?” and tially fatal reaction, it can be very salad bars (for most allergies); with during the preparation “What Else to Eat?,” both of difficult to find a restaurant that Asian restaurants (for nut, wheat, process (i.e., what else is made on which provide recipes for cooking can safely accommodate your soy and fish allergies); African, that grill, cut at that station, fried without dairy, egg, peanut, or tree needs. Thai and Indian restaurants (for in that oil, flipped over with that nut ingredients. All three books Linda Coss, author of “How to nut allergies); bakers (for nut, spatula, etc.). Discuss everything are available at Manage Your Child’s Life- milk, egg and wheat allergies); in detail, and be sure the restaurant www.foodallergybooks.com. Threatening Food Allergies: seafood restaurants (for fish or understands that the allergies can Practical Tips for Everyday Life,” shellfish allergies); and ice cream be fatal. provides the following recommen- shops (for nut, milk, egg and Order Plain, Simply Foods – dations for dining out with food wheat allergies). Avoid sauces, gravies, filling and allergies. Bring Your Emergency so forth unless you are completely Beware of the Dangers of Medication – When your family sure of their ingredients. Cross-Contamination – From the first arrives at a restaurant, check food allergy perspective, one of to be sure that you have your the biggest problems with food emergency medication (for use in prepared in a restaurant setting is case an allergic reaction should the cross-contamination between occur) with you. If it is not with different dishes that can take place you, do not stay at the restaurant. in the restaurant kitchen. If you Avoid Busy Times and react to minute quantities of an Holidays – Avoid going to restau- allergen, your food is likely to rants during their busiest hours or EMPLOYMENT VACATION PKGS. FOR RENT FOR RENT SERVICES SERVICES

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Mother’s Day is May 10!!! Send a message in The Downey Patriot will publish a special section The Downey Patriot! dedicated to Mother’s Day. For only $25.00, you can honor your mother, grandmother or that someone special with a 1.986” by 3” announcement. Deadline for announcements is May 4 and will be published on May 8, 2009. Include the following information: Completed Information Card Photo -- By Mail - photo must be 2” x 3” Mother’s Name -- By EMail - photo must be 300 dpi Line 2 ([email protected]) Line 3 Check payable to The Downey Patriot Line 4 Send to: Line 5 The Downey Patriot, 8301 E. Florence Ave., ACTUAL SIZE Suite 100, Downey, CA 90240 The Downey Patriot 8301 E. Florence Avenue, Suite 100, Downey, CA 90240 Line = approximately 20 to 23 characters including spaces and punctuation

Line 1 (Mother’s Name) Line 2 (Your message here) Line 3 Line 4 Line 5

Contact Information Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Phone:

Please call The Downey Patriot with any questions regarding your announcement. Phone (562)904-3668 April 19-25 proclaimed National Library Week in Downey

BY HENRY VENERACION, grant to provide funding (entry- ing the submittal of transportation Downey Municipal Code relating STAFF WRITER level salary and benefits) for one improvement project applications to the designation of one-way full-time sworn police officer posi- for the 2009 Los Angeles County streets; DOWNEY – “Our nation’s tion that had previously been Metropolitan Transportation •Introduced an ordinance libraries,” to quote Mayor Mario frozen; Authority (METRO) call for proj- amending Section 3186 of the Guerra’s proclamation Tuesday of •Accepted the improvements ects; and authorized the city man- Downey Municipal Code relating April 19-25 as National Library and maintenance responsibility for ager to execute all agreements as to the speed limits for Rosecrans Week, “are modern community the Discovery Sports complex and necessary to receive and expend Ave.; centers for opportunity, education, appropriated $832,183 from vari- any awarded grant funds.’’ •Heard presentations of certifi- self-help and lifelong learning. ous funds for the resulting funding •Adopted a resolution approv- cates of recognition to Rayana “Librarians are trained profes- discrepancy; ing the submittal of the “Woodruff Gallindo and Celeste Hernandez sionals, helping people of all ages •Approved the agreement with Avenue at Via Amorita Pedestrian for their participation in the open- find and interpret the information Steven Andrews Engineering for Traffic Signal” application for safe ing day ceremony of the Downey they need; and the preparation of plans, specifica- routes to school funding (8th Girls Ponytail Athletic Association; “Libraries can help you discov- tions and engineer’s estimate for cycle); •Heard presentations of city er a world of knowledge.” the construction of a sewage pump •Adopted a resolution estab- pins to Miss Downey, Miss Teen He then urged all residents to station to replace the existing lishing a No Stopping Anytime Downey and their courts; visit the library to “take advantage Blandwood Road and True Avenue prohibition on the south side of *Heard a proclamation of April of our wonderful resources and lift stations, and appropriated an Somerset Ranch Road south, west 2009 as DMV/Donate California programs.” amount not to exceed $88,975 for of Laureldale Ave.; Month, underscoring the impor- City librarian Nancy Messineo the purpose; •Adopted a resolution approv- tance of organ, tissue, marrow and also spoke, reinforcing Guerra’s •Accepted the Independent ing the appointment of Octavio blood donations as life-giving acts message and thanking all manner Cities Risk Management Authority Silva to the Water Board for recognized worldwide as “expres- of supporters of the library. (CRMA) grant funds in the amount Council District Three; sions of compassion to those in In other action, the Council: of $6,404 for the purchase and •Adopted a resolution approv- need”; and •Authorized staff to submit, via installation of back-up cameras for ing the destruction of certain obso- •Heard presentations of certifi- the city of Los Angeles, a grant four Fire Department apparatuses; lete records of the Fire cates of recognition to Stonewood Patricia Stringer was 89 when she died April 10. Funeral application for the Edward Byrne •Adopted a resolution amend- Department; Center and the Frase family for services are scheduled for today at 1 p.m. at Rose Hills. Memorial Justice Assistance Grant ing Resolution No. 6709, accepting •Introduced an ordinance their volunteer assistance with the (JAG), the funds to be used for a fee and waiving six required approving a restrictive use agree- Keep Downy Beautiful cleanup crime suppression and prevention, parking spaces for a new restaurant ment with Fresh & Easy program. Patricia Stringer was especially targeting street rob- at l1045 Downey Ave. in the Neighborhood Market, Inc. for the The next regular public meet- beries; Downtown Parking Assessment city-owned parking lot at 8356 ing of the City Council will be held •Authorized staff to submit a District which will be operated by Firestone Blvd.; at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28 grant application for the Cops Paul Granata; •Introduced an ordinance at City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Ave. longtime resident Hiring Recovery program, the •Adopted a resolution approv- amending Section 3130.l of the DOWNEY – Patricia C. Stringer, a member of First Baptist Church of Downey, passed away April 10 from an age-related illness. She was 89. She was born Oct. 3, 1919 in Dayton, Ohio to James and Edna Ray. Financial seminars at local church Make plans for Street Faire, May 2 DOWNEY She married Embert (Bert) Stringer on Feb. 14, 1940 and they were mar- – Financial Peace University (FPU), a 13-week program DOWNEY – Brookshire Avenue will once again be filled with ven- ried for 69 years. teaching families how to handle their money through common-sense prin- dors and thousands of guests when the Downey Chamber of Commerce They moved from Ohio to Downey in 1944. ciples and accountability, will present two classes at the Lord’s Grace hosts its 16th annual Street Faire on May 2. She is survived by her husband, Embert; three children, Susan Church in Downey on April 27 and 30. The community event will have a centrally-located food court, live Machowsky of Downey, Embert (Sonny) Stringer Jr. (Debra) of Whittier, Classes are taught by Dave Ramsey, who began teaching FPU classes entertainment all day, a kid’s zone, and a car show with more than 200 and Paul (Patrice) Stringer of Draper, Utah; 13 grandchildren; and 15 in 1994. classic automobiles. great-grandchildren. The program consists of 13 lessons taught by Ramsey on DVD. After The fair is free and the community is invited. For more information, She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, James; sister, each lesson, the class meets to help each other plan budgets, discuss suc- call the Chamber at (562) 923-2191. Dorothy; and great-grandchild, Lincoln. cesses and temptations, and support each other as they work to beat debt This year’s fair sponsors include Kaiser Permanente, Platinum Services will be held today at Rose Hills Memorial Chapel at 1 p.m. and build wealth. Sponsor; Downey Regional Medical Center, Diamond Sponsor; CalMet Condolences can be sent to [email protected]. Students need to purchase a kit to start the class. For more information, Services, Gold Sponsor; AppleCare Medical Group, Australian Swim call Jeff Kerkoff at (818) 383-3176 or e-mail [email protected]. School, CareMore, Financial Partners Credit Union, The Point Insurance The Lord’s Grace Church is at 7360 Foster Bridge Blvd. in Downey. Services, Shave It, and Talbert Medical Group, Silver Sponsors; Downey Classes begin at 7 p.m. Savings & Loan, and RMI Interntional, Bronze Sponsors; Don Dixon & Associates Insurance, Krikorian Premiere Theatres, “Santa Claus” Mark Joe Ray Alcon Seniors invited to make new friends Keller, Law Offices of Alexis Saab, Sanchez Villa Realty, and Southern DOWNEY – Downey AARP invites the older community to its meet- Calif. Alcohol & Drug Programs, Friends of the Faire; Downey Nissan, ings on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at the Barbara J. Car Sponsor; and DowneyConnect.com, media sponsor. was WWII veteran Riley Community & Senior Center. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. and end at 1 p.m. The group enjoys enter- DOWNEY – Joe Ray Alcon, a decorated World War II veteran, passed tainment, luncheons, speakers, trips and bingo. away April 12. He was 84. Seniors are invited to attend and make new friends. For more informa- Alcon was born in New Mexico and served in the Army during World tion, call Lorene Frazier at (562) 861-6075. War II. He was a PFC Rifleman and was awarded three Bronze Battle Stars, a Presidential Citation, a Good Conduct Medal, and a WWII Victory Medal. NARFE meeting Wednesday He lived in Downey for 23 years. DOWNEY – The National Association of Active and Retired Federal Alcon is survived by his wife, Michelle Alcon; and nine children, Employees Southeast chapter will meet Wednesday at noon at Furman Lance, Nathan, John, Mark, Jake, Ray, Michelle, Vanessa and Vianca. Park. A funeral service was held yesterday at Linaje Escojido Church in Pampered Chef catalogs will be distributed to all in attendance. Orders Downey. from the catalog will help the chapter financially. For more information, call (562) 943-5513. Gangs Out of Downey luncheon Wednesday For tickets, call (562) 862-8141, ext. 223

American Capital Realty Inc. of Santa Fe Springs has signed on as a Silver Sponsor for this year's GOOD (Gangs Out Of Downey) luncheon, to be held Tuesday at the Rio Hondo Event Center. Left to right: American Capital Realy owners Phil Persicci (founding member of GOOD) and wife Bonnie, and owner Winnie Long and husband Mel. American Capitol Realty Inc. has supported GOOD for 20 years. This year's keynote speaker is NFL Hall of Famer Jim Brown, whom many con- sider to be the greatest running back in NFL history.

Stan Hanstad, Chairman of the Board at Downey Federal Credit Union, presents a $2,500 dona- tion to Barbara Lamberth, treasurer of Gangs Out of Downey and CEO of Downey Federal Credit Union.

On March 26, Rio Hondo Elementary School welcomed parents and friends to their annual Career Day. Students enjoyed hearing about the life of a dog handler, policeman, pastry chef, costume designer, magician, Gas Company employee, dentist, construction manager, and more.