FOR HOME DELIVERY Mass Shooting in Orange Leaves Four

that maybeorderedonline.” and continuetooffer at-homeoptions through designatedneighborhoodsites testing moreaccessibleatnocost Instead, “HCA willcontinuetomake testing willnolongertakeplacethere. Center remainsitesforvaccinations, Center andthe Anaheim Convention 30. Although theOCFair&Event “Testing SuperSites”willcloseon April (HCA) hasannouncedthattwoofits guard againstit. the publicnottodropourcollective of newSARS-CoV-2 variantsandurge virus. Healthofficials continuetowarn numbers ofcasesanddeathsfromthe aged tomaintaincomparativelylow across thecountry, Californiahasman- upswing incasesmanyotherstates demic beganoverayearago.Despitean Facilities, toCOVID-19sincethepan- residents, 93oftheminSkilledNursing Toward YellowTier OR CURRENT RESIDENT OrangeCountyHealthcare Agency Fullerton haslost295ofits142,824 County Looks Submissions: [email protected] • in COVID-19 See COVID-19,Page2 PRESORTED FULLERTON’S ONLY INDEPENDENT NEWS Recovery FULLERTON by MatthewLeslie BSERVER STANDARD U.S. O POSTAGE PAID PO BOX 7051 ADVERTISE IN THE OBSERVER PERMIT NO. 1577 FULLERTON CA 92834 714-525-6402 FULLERTON CA OR EMAIL

F [email protected] ullerton members, were Luis Tovar, ownerof the injured. Ismeralda Tamayo, whowascritically the armsofhismother, Blanca Farias, whowasfatallyshot anddiedin family membersas9-year-old Matthew and threeattemptedmurdercharges. Gonzalez facesfourcountsofmurder, out ofamotelroomin Anaheim. including a9-year- oldboy. March 31andleftfourpeopledead, ing tookplaceinthecityofOrangeon known addressinFullerton. The shoot- Aminadab GaxiolaGonzalez,withalast has beenidentifiedas44-year-old results insomethingcalledaPavement assess thestateofitsstreets,which Every twoyears,theCityisrequiredto around 300milesofstreetsandroads. discussion. lowed bypubliccommentsandCouncil presentation onthetopic,whichwasfol- for thecityofFullertongaveadetailed improve roads. is availableforrepair, andideasto state ofFullerton’s roads,whatfunding study sessionon April 13todiscussthe Mass ShootinginOrangeLeavesFour The otherskilled,according tofamily The victimshavebeenidentifiedby Police sayGonzalezhadbeenliving The suspectinarecentmassshooting Altogether, Fullertonmaintains David Grantham,PrincipalEngineer Fullerton CityCouncilheldaspecial The MarketisopenThursdays4pm-7:30pmattheDowntownPlaza(301N.Pomona Ave.), andrunsthrough October. C Downtown FullertonMarketRe-Opens: OUNCIL S PECIAL Dead, IncludingaChild H •Est.1978 OLDS S TUDY Call: (714)525-6402•DailyStoriesat: R OAD S

(printed on20%recycled paper) ESSION R was injured,andtookhim into custody. entry, officers locatedGonzalez,who force entrythroughthe gates. Upon the gates.Policewereeventually ableto bicycle cablelockstosecure thegates. the inside.Itappearssuspectused because thegateshadbeenlockedfrom unable toentertheoffice building the areaof200 W. LincolninOrange. calls reportinggunshotsbeingfiredin Police Departmentreceivedmultiple Leticia Solis. daughter JenevieveRaygoza,and where theshootingoccurred, Tovar’s Unified Homesmobilehomebusiness with thecostofroadrepairs. made itdifficult forFullertontokeepup key factorsthatoverthedecadeshave years. term problemthathasgrownovermany maintenance andithasbecomealong- appropriately fundedinfrastructure “fair.” Fullerton’s overallPCIin2020was streets from“verypoor”togood.” Condition Index(PCI). The PCIrates An officer shotGonzalezfromoutside Upon arrival,officers wereinitially At approximately5:30pm,theOrange Hethengaveahistoryofsomethe Grantham saidthatFullertonhasnot EPAIR See MassShooting, Page3

O P

by JesseLa Tour HOTO

See Roads, Page 5 On April 8,thepopularDowntownFullertonMarketre-opened.

AND

BY J ESSE

F L UNDING A T bserver OUR

• Y www.fullertonobserver.com EAR 43#7•MID-APRIL 2021 myturn.ca.gov. Vaccine schedulingsiteat: primary careorgototheCalifornia all availableresources.Contactyour aged toregisterandinquirethrough are permitted.Everyoneisencour- appointment toenter. Nowalk-ins www.fullertonobserver.com othena.com/?lang=ko • othena.com/?lang=vi • Tiếng Việt- Vietnamese othena.com/?lang=es • Español-Spanish othena.com • English Or, forOthena,gotothesesites: All vaccinationsitesrequirean FOR HOMEDELIVER Fullerton, CA,92834 Fullerton, Get 21issuesmailed 한국어 -Korean Your Vaccine Sign upfor or payonlineat: to your home Name PO Box 7051 $35 peryear. & Send Chec e, , Addr

ck k

ess s,

Page 2 FULLERTON OBSERVER COMMUNITY UPDATE MID-APRIL 2021

Navigation and Recuperative Care Center for Homeless Reopens

by Jesse La Tour

An official ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony for Fullerton’s Navigation//Recuperative Care Center for the homeless took place on April 8, featuring local elected officials, representatives from Illumination Foundation (the non-profit that will be running the center), faith leaders, donors, and other members of the community. The facility is located in a 15,700- square-foot former commercial building near the Fullerton airport and is able to house up to 90 adults experiencing homelessness, with an additional 60 beds for adults in need of recuperative care as they recover from surgery and other critical hospital care. In addition to shelter, the Center provides in-house medical workers and Paul Leon, CEO of Illumination Foundation, and Fullerton Mayor Bruce Whitaker (center) cut the ribbon at the Fullerton case managers to provide wraparound Navigation Center, surrounded by other local leaders. PHOTO BY JESSE LA TOUR care for those experiencing homelessness. 19 cases across the region, it was con- made to the Center to accommodate this. under the full-service model for which it The Navigation Center opened in verted into a COVID-only site in Earlier this year, the Center temporar- was intended. It re-opened April 12, August 2020. Due to a spike in COVID- December 2020, and changes were ily closed in preparation for reopening with COVID-19 precautions in place.

COVID-19: COUNTY LOOKS TO ENTER YELLOW TIER

Continued from front page Four-fifths of California’s population Saliva and nasal swap kits may be is now living in Orange Tier counties. ordered online at occovid19.ochealthin- The remainder of the State’s counties fo.com/covid-19-testing. There is no are still in the Red Tier, with a few cost for the tests, and return shipping is already in the Yellow Tier. No counties pre-paid. The website also shows a list are still in the Purple (“Widespread”) of on-site testing locations throughout Tier. California hopes to entirely open OC. its economy by June 15 if enough (equi- HCA Director and County Health tably distributed) vaccine supplies are Officer Dr. Clayton Chau available and if “stable and low” levels of hospitalizations said in a press release: “When COVID-19 test- can be reached. Gov. ing was first developed Newsom has referred more than one year ago, to this condition as California hopes the “Green Tier,” availability was limited to entirely open and many residents had although that color to wait to experience its economy by designation does not symptoms before quali- June 15 if enough appear on the State’s fying. While we’re current framework. (equitably distributed) The recent pause in pleased that the county of vaccine supplies An OC resident receives a vaccine at a mobile POD clinic on April 11. Orange was able to stand use of the Johnson & are available and Johnson vaccine has up these Super Sites to steadily since mid-January. avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated meet initial community if “stable and low” some worried that the State will not be able Vaccinations are now open to anyone indoor spaces, and practicing physical need, we have a robust levels of over the age of 15, closing a two-week distancing from those outside your network in place today to meet the June hospitalizations goal, but State offi- window that held the age to 50 and over household, will help limit the impact of that makes no-cost test- (excluding those with medical condi- variants circulating in Southern ing easily accessible.” can be reached. cials remain confident that adequate tions and in certain professions). OC California, particularly as more indoor The testing site shut- has, so far, administered at least one vac- activities open and expand operations.” downs come as the coun- supplies of other vaccines are available. cine dose to 1.3 million residents and Residents who have not yet been ty might possibly soon have fully vaccinated over 750,000, administered a vaccine against COVID- move from the Orange Currently, the County’s COVID-19 accounting for nearly 1/4 of the 19 may register at www.Othena.com, (“Moderate”) to the County’s population. The County has also available as a mobile device app. Yellow (“Minimal”) Tier of the State of Case Rate per 100,000 residents is 3.0, with an identical Adjusted Case Rate contracted with non-profits who work Once registered, which is a simple oper- California’s Blueprint for a Safer with neighborhood organizations to ation, a resident is placed on a list and Economy. Such a move would allow (the statewide rate is 4.8). OC’s 7-day average Positivity Rate is 1.6% reach residents in some of the hardest hit notified when their turn to schedule an greater numbers of people to gather areas who are also least likely to know appointment arrives. COVID-19 vacci- socially. Indoor performances and sports (statewide rate is 1.8%), and Health Equity Quartile Positivity Rate is 1.8%. about vaccine availability and/or be able nations should be offered free of charge. events would still be limited to in-state to schedule and keep an appointment to For the latest eligibility guidelines, patrons, require the familiar social dis- The Health Equity Quartile measures the positivity rate across social sectors get one, often because of language barri- visit coronavirus.egovoc.com/covid-19- tancing, and max out a half capacity, ers or work schedules. As more of the vaccination-distribution. Those needing with proof of testing or a vaccine. in order to ensure that a county doesn’t achieve low rates in some areas while general population becomes eligible for assistance with Othena may call the Outdoor live events and amusement vaccines, concerns persist that these vul- county of Orange’s COVID-19 Hotline parks would be able to increase capacity leaving others with high rates. The California Department of Public Health nerable populations will be left behind. 7 days a week from 8am to 5pm at (714) with the current restrictions, but none to The Orange County Healthcare 834-2000. full capacity. Hotels, gyms, and restau- measures Intensive Care Unit capacity regionally. Southern California, one of Agency recommends “continued adher- For the latest COVID-19 information, rants—three sectors significantly affect- ence to non-medical public health miti- visit www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoron- ed by pandemic restrictions, could all the five regions, currently has an ICU capacity of 33.33%, which is projected gation measures such as wearing a mask avirus, or follow the HCA on Facebook similarly increase capacity of patrons, that covers the nose and mouth, washing (@ochealthinfo) and Twitter but none higher than 50%. to increase by 3 percentage points. Statewide, ICU capacity has been rising hands frequently with soap and water, (@ochealth). MID-APRIL 2021 NEWS FULLERTON OBSERVER Page 3

Planning Commission Rejects Ban on Whole House Short Term Rentals

by Matthew Leslie Foulkes, who presented the staff report on the item to the Planning Commission Fullerton’s Planning Commission has during its March 31 meeting, the City rejected a proposed amendment to the Council voted to settle UNITE HERE’s Fullerton Municipal Code that would threatened lawsuit by approving an have restricted Short Term Rental (STR) amendment to the ordinance restricting properties in residential zones to homes STRs to properties where an owner is on where the homeowner is present during site. Such an amendment would have the the rental period. STRs are defined as practical effect of preventing multiple rentals of less than 30 days, and are properties from being purchased by sin- often used for short vacation stays in gle owners for use as STRs, as well as Southern California for families visiting ensuring that property owners would be nearby tourist attrac- present to monitor the tions. They are an behavior of renters and attractive alternative to respond to any neighbor- hotels for many people, hood complaints. and have become more Short Term Rentals The City Council’s financially lucrative for (STRs), like 2020 ordinance requires Fullerton Public Works Director Meg McWade holds plans for PFAS owners who advertise owners to register STR their properties on well- AirBnB, are properties and pay a per- treatment plant at the site. PHOTO BY LINDA WHITAKER known internet sites. defined as rentals mit fee to the City, as Some OC cities allow of less than 30 days, well as a Transient XTRACTION ELLS NSTALLED AT PFAS E W I the practice, while oth- and are often used Occupancy Tax. Permits FORMER KIMBERLY CLARK SITE ers do not. are issued for a period of So-called “whole for short vacation three years, and can be house” STRs, which stays in Southern revoked for rules viola- The City of Fullerton and the Orange County Water District (OCWD) have don’t require an owner tions. Outright commer- installed a wellhead filtration/treatment plant to remove PFOS (perfluorooctane sul- California for to be on the premises cial uses like weddings, fonate) and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) from local well water. families visiting during the rental period, large parties, and film- PFOA and PFOS are chemical contaminants that are prevalent in the environment are currently allowed in nearby tourist ing are not supposed to and were once commonly used in many consumer products. They are part of a larger the city. Following a attractions. be permitted at the sites group referred to as per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Due to the pro- 2015 declaration of (Fullerton has a separate longed use of PFOA and PFOS, the chemicals are now being detected in the envi- intention to address the process for commercial ronment, including water sources throughout the United States. use of STRs, the City filming in the city). PFAS have been detected in the Orange County Groundwater Basin. Council finally voted to The Planning regulate their use in October, 2020. The Commission declined to approve the Council decided to allow them, but amendment, but it will still be heard by capped their overall number and the City Council, who may choose to required enough distance between them follow the Planning Commission’s rec- to ensure that STRs would not take over ommendation not to approve the pro- entire neighborhood streets. posed ordinance, or approve it despite The STR ordinance went into effect in the Commission’s rejection. Many early December, but soon after the Hotel Fullerton residents have expressed con- and Restaurants union, UNITE HERE cerns about STRs, arguing that, unlike Local 11, some of whose members had long-term rentals, they represent an spoken out against allowing STRs dur- improper commercial use of neighbor- ing various council meetings in the past, hood residences. threatened a legal challenge, claiming According to Foulkes, there are 333 that the City did not follow the unique properties listed on sites like California Environmental Quality Act Airbnb and VRBO, just over half of (CEQA) when adopting the new ordi- which are in single family homes. (The nance. Many of UNITE HERE’s mem- staff report shows 482 total listings in bers are hotel and restaurant workers in Fullerton—a result of the same proper- Police and fire outside the office building in Orange where the mass shooting the Disneyland resort area, and view ties listed on different websites). Nearly took place on March 31. IMAGE FROM OC HAWK STRs as competition, particularly since 80% are whole house rentals, where an the City of Anaheim, which once owner is not present during the period of MASS SHOOTING LEAVES FOUR DEAD allowed STRs, banned them outright in the rental. The median rent in city STRs 2016. is $115 per night. The highest is $350 According to Community and per night, while the lowest is just $35. Continued from front page Economic Development Director Matt Continued on page 19 Officers located five victims in the offices of a an office building that included Unified Homes—two adult females, one adult male, and the child, were all killed by the shooter. Man Charged with Hate Crime for Throwing Speaking at a press conference on Rocks at Asian Woman, Child April 1, Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said, “It appears that a little boy died in his mother’s Fullerton resident Roger Janke, 28, at a vehicle, and one felony hate crime arms as she was trying to save him dur- has been charged by the Orange County enhancement. ing this horrific massacre.” District Attorney with a hate crime for He faces a maximum sentence of six She, along with the suspect, was throwing rocks at a 38-year old Asian years in State prison and six months in transferred to a local hospital where woman and her six-year-old son, crack- the Orange County jail. He has pled not they both remain in critical but stable Aminadab Gaxiola Gonzalez ing the woman’s windshield, as they guilty and is currently being held on bail were driving near Hughes Drive and at the Theo Lacy Facility. condition. pepper spray, handcuffs, and ammuni- The preliminary motive is believed to Bastanchury Road in Fullerton on “I refuse to tolerate hate in Orange tion, which police believe belonged to March 31. The woman drove to a nearby County,” Orange County District be a business and personal relationship the suspect. that existed between the suspect and all park and called 911. Janke later told Attorney Todd Spitzer said. “A woman The case is being investigated by the police that Koreans in the area were try- and her child should be able to drive of the victims, according to Lt. Jennifer Orange Police Department, the District Amat of the Orange Police Department. ing to control him. down the street without worrying about Attorney’s Office, and the FBI. Janke is accused of throwing two being attacked because of the color of She said it appears that “this was not a Spitzer’s office is investigating both the random act of violence.” The Los rocks at the passing vehicle, damaging their skin. Our commitment to continu- officer-involved shooting of Gonzalez her bumper and cracking her wind- ing to prosecute hate crimes to the Angeles Times reports that Gonzalez’ and the mass shooting itself. ex-wife worked for Unified Homes. shield. Janke has been charged with one fullest extent of the law is sending a Spitzer said that Gonzalez is eligible felony count of violation of civil rights, strong message to all the haters out there Investigators recovered several items for the death penalty. at the scene, including a semi-automatic one felony count of vandalism, one mis- – there is no room for hate here – or any- handgun and a backpack containing Continued on page 18 demeanor count of throwing a substance where.” Page 4 FULLERTON OBSERVER COUNCIL NOTES MID-APRIL 2021

FULLERTON CITY COUNCIL NOTES

The Council meets at 6:30pm on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. Upcoming agenda information and streaming video of meetings are available at www.cityoffullerton.com.

City Hall is located at 303 W. Commonwealth, Fullerton. Contact Council at (714) 738-6311 or by email to: [email protected]

APRIL 6 MEETING Closed Session Before every public City Council meeting there is a closed session in which Council meets with various parties to discuss items outside the view of the public. During this closed session, Council met with legal counsel to discuss the case City Arab American Heritage Month: Councilmember Ahmad Zahra and Mayor of Fullerton v. Friends of Fullerton’s Future, Joshua Ferguson and David Curlee. Bruce Whitaker presented a proclamation for Arab American Heritage Month to Council also met with representatives of the Fullerton Municipal Employees Iyad Afalqa from the Arab American Civic Council. Federation to discuss parameters of authority for negotiating salaries, benefits, and working conditions. There was no closed session report from the City Attorney. Illegal Cannabis Business Enforcement Public Comments Two-Year Pilot Program

People Living in RVs. A woman liv- agement for speaking up about unsafe Council approved the creation of a the law affords these businesses specif- ing in her RV said that those like her health conditions at the course after staff two-year pilot program to hire one partic, and often lengthy, due process have constitutional protections against members contracted COVID-19. time Code Enforcement Officer exclu- allowances before the City can obtain an being targeted for living in their vehicles “American Golf has issued a 30-notice sively focused on actions to close illegal abatement warrant from a judge to close (4th and 8th amendments). Another man to terminate my contract because I cannabis businesses. the business permanently. That is, police who has been living in his RV with his refused to sign a new contract disallow- The overall cost of the two-year pro- cannot just go in and close down illegal dogs for over a year said that he has ing group lessons at Fullerton Golf gram is $72,193. dispensaries. The process goes through been harassed by the City. “We really Course. The new contract also raises the City Council recently repealed an code enforcement. have nowhere else to go…I don’t need student costs for lessons by 37.5%,” ordinance allowing a limited number of Despite ongoing closures, new illegal to go to a shelter; I have a home and two Weaver said. “The price increase would legal cannabis dispensaries. Residents dispensaries open and an average of six dogs to care for. I pray that you look at exclude many. As the only female golf have repeatedly spoken at Council meet- to eight illegal dispensaries operate in this situation and see that we’re really instructor and the only one who gives ings, asking for the City to close down the City at any given time. These are not people and we’re suffering and we’re group lessons, I do feel singled out. the illegal dispensaries that still exist in the same six to eight illegal businesses doing our best.” There is plenty of space for group les- Fullerton. continuing to operate, but rather a Teacher at Fullerton Golf Course sons. Please help us by telling American Like any illegally operating business, changing group of illegal operators. alleges retaliation. Jeanne Weaver, an Golf to allow our group lessons to con- LPGA golf professional who teaches at tinue.” Fullerton Golf Course said she feels she Many of her students also spoke on is being retaliated against by the man- her behalf. Union Pacific Council Tables Park Update Back Pay for Adopt-a-Park and Trail Program Top City Staff Staff presented Council with an Council voted unanimously to estab- Volunteers will commit to litter and update regarding plans for Union lish an Adopt-a-Park and Trail program weed abatement on designated trails or Pacific Park, including development of Council voted 3-2 to table a proposal that will provide an opportunity for cleaning and minor maintenance activi- a non-profit aquaponic farm and event to pay back top City staff for the 5% pay community groups, civic organizations, ties at a designated park once a month center (Renewable Farms). The update cut they took due to COVID-19 finan- and private businesses to contribute to for a one-year term. also included information about plans cial impacts to the City, with funds from the effort of maintaining parks and trails This community support will allow for the 35 acres around the park, which the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. in the city of Fullerton. the City’s limited maintenance crews to the City has proposed as a “Rail The City has not yet received this feder- This program will cost an estimated focus on other tasks and create service District” to include new housing and al funding. $1,500 annually to provide supplies to opportunities for community members. other development. ten organizations and $500 for signage. How to Participate in the Valencia and Rosecrans Street April 20 City Council Meeting Improvements Approved The next City Council meeting will be Residents can watch the broadcast Council voted unanimously to allocate Enterprise funds for sewer main rehabil- held Tuesday, April 20 at 6:30pm. online at www.cityoffullerton.com/ftv3, $2,791,451 of Gas Tax (SB 1) funds to itation and manhole adjustments, and Members of the public will be allowed on TV on Spectrum Channel 3, and the repair of Valencia Drive from Water funds for minor water valve into the Chambers for this meeting, AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Magnolia Avenue to Gilbert Street, and improvements. however, limited seating will be avail- E-comments for this upcoming meet- Rosecrans Avenue from city limits to Construction on Rosecrans Avenue able due to social distancing. ing will not be read out loud but will be Sunny Ridge Drive. The project will will commence in spring 2022 and on The public may watch and participate accepted for the record and distributed also include contributions from Sewer Valencia in summer 2022. virtually either by phone or via Zoom. to the City Council. For instructions on how to login or sub- For a calendar of upcoming city meet- mit a written comment, visit www.cityof- ings and agendas visit: fullerton.legis- fullerton.com/participate. tar.com/Calendar.aspx. Agenda Forecast

Agenda items for the April 20 meeting include:

• Public Employee Performance Evaluation—City Manager (Closed Session) • Presentation: Korean War Memorial • Condemnation of Hate Crimes Against Asian Americans • Well 7 destruction and well 7A construction agreement • Short Term Rentals • Exclusive Agreement with Renewable Farms at Union Pacific Park

To view the full agenda visit fullerton.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx MID-APRIL 2021 NEWS FULLERTON OBSERVER Page 5

ROADS: COUNCIL DISCUSSES FUNDING NEEDS, PRIORITIES

Continued from front page Funding Prior to the passage of Prop 13 (1978), Grantham said that sources of funding cities were able to determine their for road repair are limited. For example, expenditure needs and then set a local the sanitation fund, the sewer enterprise property tax rate to obtain the necessary fund, the water fund, and park-dwelling revenues. funds cannot be used for street rehabili- Prop 13 set strict limits on property tation. taxes, thereby reducing city revenues. Most funding for street repairs comes “As a resident, [Prop 13] is good for from the Gas Tax, SB 1, Measure M2, me. It keeps my property tax down,” and the Community Development Block Grantham said. “But from a city point of Grant. view, not very helpful. It certainly Mayor Pro Tem Dunlap asked if there reduced the amount of revenue that has been any General Fund allocation could possibly be brought in for the for road repair for the past few years. City.” Domer said, “General fund dollars are A recession in 1990 impacted the spoken for. They are prioritized for other City’s revenue and ability to fund main- uses.” tenance. In 1993, the City Council voted Grantham presented a graph showing to impose a 3% utility tax to provide that if the City continues with its current new revenue of approximately $2.6 mil- level of funding, our pavement condi- lion per year. Voters recalled Council tions are going to get even worse over Recent road reconstruction along Commonwealth Ave. PHOTO BY MIKE RITTO members and the tax was repealed. time. In 2002, after the 9/11 attacks, City (from $5M to $15M). opposed Measure S because it would not Council approved enhanced pensions What Has the City Done? INRAC’s recommendation for how to have reserved dollars for road repair. for police and fire, increasing the City’s pay for this was to put a special, dedicat- Councilmember Zahra disagreed, stat- pension obligations. Grantham discussed steps the City has taken to address road repair needs ed sales tax measure on the ballot. ing that half of the Measure S funding The 2008 recession negatively Instead, Council chose to put a general would have gone toward infrastructure impacted City revenues. despite the funding shortfalls. These include: sales tax increase measure on the ballot, because of the City’s recently-created “The bottom line is we’ve had which was Measure S (2020). This Infrastructure Fund. increasing costs over the years, but our • Combined water and sewer projects with street improvements, thereby measure failed. “That would have brought in the $10 revenue sources have been limited,” Councilmember Zahra said that million a year that we’re looking for,” Grantham said. reducing the contribution to street funding. Council chose to do the general tax Zahra said. Mayor Pro Tem Nick Dunlap said that because a special tax requires a 2/3 voter Dunlap said that Grantham’s presenta- Grantham’s presentation focused on • Sold surplus property and revenue from that was used for street improve- approval to pass (as opposed to the 50% tion should have also focused on not just revenue losses but should also focus on threshold of a general tax), and polling revenue losses, but expenditures, specif- expenditures. ments. • Established an Infrastructure Fund showed this was not feasible. ically how past councils have allocated “If you were to look at increases in Councilmember Jung said he thinks discretionary spending, “cuts that could sales and property tax revenues over that using a minimum of 50% of any increased property tax and sales tax rev- voters would have approved the special have been made over time in order to same time frame, over 20-30 years, my tax. reallocate some of that funding into our guess is you’d see any increases in prop- enue above and beyond a baseline amount each year. This was created in Grantham presented Council with roads and streets.” He said that the fact erty or sales tax revenue tied to increas- options for how to prioritize street that there has been no funding to road es in compensation for police, fire, and July 2020 and is estimated to provide $400,000 for the next fiscal year. repairs given current funding levels, and and street repair from the General Fund other public employees as well, as asked for Council input. over the past few years “is offensive.” opposed to going to roads, streets, infra- • Partnered with county of Orange for roadway funding assistance. Councilmember Jesus Silva suggested structure,” Dunlap said. determining if there are neighborhoods • Designed some maintenance proj- Council Discussion Mayor Whitaker acknowledged that willing to do a “special assessment” tax ects in-house, as opposed to by contrac- After Grantham’s presentation, some Prop 13 had an impact, but said it also to repair their neighborhood roads. He tors. members of the public addressed allowed property values to rise because also suggested charging utility compa- • Approved new developments that Council. Most were residents who were of the predictability created by Prop 13. nies for cutting into our streets. have private streets the City is not upset about the condition of Fullerton’s “A big part of the problem is the Zahra said there is the possibility of a required to maintain. roads. increasing share of property taxes that Federal Infrastructure Bill, but it is “Fullerton is a beautiful city with great go to education in this State because of uncertain whether cities will get the What the City Needs schools, but our residential streets have Educational Revenue Augmentation money directly. been horribly neglected for so long,” Funds (ERAF), as well,” Whitaker said. Grantham said that the City needs a Councilmember Jung suggested rais- Young Lee said. Councilmember Fred Jung said, “If minimum budget of $8 million a year ing business license fees to generate “We’d like a plan developed so we we cry it’s because of the lack of rev- just to maintain existing street condi- more revenue. know when our street will be repaired,” enue, that just can’t be the excuse for tions. The current budget is $5 million a Mayor Whitaker said that, over the another resident said. me. If it’s decades of neglect, shouldn’t year. past decades, street repair has not been a Councilmember Fred Jung said that, we as a city and a staff have figured out In April 2019, City Council tasked the priority for city councils. He said that like our budget, “our infrastructure along the way how to make an adjust- Infrastructure and Natural Resources the City is currently in the process of should reflect our values, and it just has- ment, how to get more for that dollar, or Advisory Committee (INRAC), com- creating its budget for the next fiscal n’t.” find more inventive ways to use that posed of volunteers, to conduct an infra- year, and that that budget “will speak to Mayor Pro Tem Dunlap said that he money?” structure needs assessment. They con- our priorities.” City Manager Ken Domer said, “We cluded: can’t control the fact that 30 years ago • The condition and funding of our there was a decision, but we are living streets is the single most critical prob- with that fact. We’re going to be bring- lem. ing to the Council a series of decisions • Fullerton infrastructure needs an based on our overall revenues and increase of approximately $10 million expenditures as they stand now.” per year over current funding levels

FULLERTON HONORS BANNERS

Forget 2020 for a minute; 2021 is going to be a banner year as we finally replace the many banners on Commonwealth and install new ones. (This lazy sentence will be blamed on COVID fog). Sun, wind, and age have taken all of these banners to the point of no return. If you sponsored one please contact me at my email address above. Finally, we are once again able to honor those who have served us. If you want to sponsor one now, those who are eligible are men and women who are currently serving in the armed forces, those who have served in the past, and those who have given their lives while serving as police officers or firefighters. Costs have gone up but once the number of banners is determined, we will know if we can still hold the cost to around $300 each, which includes Commonwealth Ave. road reconstruction. design, printing, all hardware, installation, maintenance, and eventually, ‘Why Don’t They Fix the Potholes?!’ removal. They should remain in place deadline will be May 31 so we can begin for at least a few years. Please don’t hes- to replace the damaged banners well before July 4. As Commonwealth got worse and Orangethorpe adjacent to the old itate; we have set a deadline, and that worse with all the micro-trenching for Kimberly-Clark plant are the responsi- the installation of fiber optic cable, bility of the developer. Additional work water main breaks, erosion, etc., the on Orangethorpe is not scheduled at this Fullerton above headline was a daily cry for help. time but Public Works is looking for What is interesting, even though now additional funding to improve Harbor to Market that ‘they’ are completely reconstructing Lemon and State College to Placentia. Returns Commonwealth from Balcom to On April 6, recommendations to allo- Montague, the beat goes on. So above is cate 2.7 million in SB1 transportation a photo that may convince everyone that funding to improve Valencia from once and for all, yes, the work has Magnolia to Gilbert and Rosecrans from The Fullerton begun. The reconstruction project the City limits to Sunny Ridge were Farmer’s Market includes completed sewer main replace- unanimously approved by our City returned to the ment, water main replacement, upgrades Council. Downtown Plaza to existing curbs and gutters, sidewalks If you have an issue with potholes in On April 8. The and ADA ramps. Improvements to your neighborhood you can call (714) entire Fullerton Raymond from Commonwealth to 738-6897 or email maintenance@cityof- Market lineup, with Chapman will begin in the next few fullerton.com. live music, beer and weeks. More info will come our way when wine garden, and all Of course, bumpy/grumpy Mayor Bruce Whitaker gives the annual of the other vendors Orangethorpe will remain the rallying State of the City address with the theme should return soon. cry, and improvements from Woods to “Give P’s a Chance: Potholes, Pipes, Stay tuned! Highland are scheduled to begin soon. Pavement, Pension, Protection, and Improvements to the segment of Prosperity” on April 29 at 11am. Photo Quiz

LAST ISSUE:

B&B Donuts on Harbor is the cor- rect answer and anyone who already gave me that answer can email me for a free doughnut. We’ll set up a time for all of you winners to meet for a doughnut/photo op. Many of you have been going there for decades and shared some nice memories, so that doughnut shop is yet another place that seems to bring people together and put smiles on their faces.

THIS ISSUE:

Where is this (at left) and when did it appear?

Eggmazing Race organizers. Send your answer to Mike at [email protected] Eggmazing Race

We told you about this in our last issue when we covered the egg hunt, and a large number of you came out to participate or just watch. Because so many restaurants and other sponsors donated prizes, there were many, many winners and we only have space for a few here. Bottom line, it was a nearly perfect day, a great success, and we all hope this becomes an annual event. When Fullertonians put their minds to it, nothing can stop us. MID-APRIL 2021 NEWS & CROSSWORD FULLERTON OBSERVER Page 7

One of the oldest and largest oak trees in Fullerton, planted in 1914, grows in the quad at Fullerton High School. PHOTO BY JENSEN HALLSTROM New Group Forms to Protect Fullerton Trees

by Jane Reifer ACROSS 35. "The Giver" author Lowry Arbor Day Weekend Zoom Event committee’s work to preserve and pro- 1. Lending letters 37. Head of cabbage? 4 pm Sunday May 2, 2021 tect local trees. 5. System/360s, e.g. 40. Take it easy At future meetings we are expecting 9. Cultural Revolution leader 41. Fashion partner of Gabbana A new group, the Heritage Trees to discuss a variety of Fullerton tree top- 12. Hints (that you're currently 43. Ward of "Sisters" Committee of Friends for a Livable ics, preservation opportunities, and looking at) 45. See 32-Across Fullerton, is forming to advocate for the demonstrations/discussion of proper 13. Boor 46. Small fireworks enjoyment and preservation of tree care. Those who can’t attend can 14. Pubs 50. Sweet French bread Fullerton’s unique and special trees. visit the group’s new webpage which 15. Threatening person that 52. Tre + tre They hope to continue the work started will go live on Arbor Day, Friday April is really ineffectual 53. "Round and Round" by Fullerton Beautiful, a long-time 30: www.SaveFullerton.com/Trees. 17. Guesses: Abbr. heavy metal band Fullerton group which recently disband- The website will outline the group’s 18. Meticulous, in slang 54. Cosmetics Lauder ed. projects and list resources for tree care 19. "Siddhartha" author 57. Airport conveyance Their debut event will be a Zoom education and preservation advocacy, 20. Here, in Honduras 61. French girlfriend meeting on Sunday of the weekend of and will include a list of Fullerton’s 10 21. Be mistaken 62. ___ Band (John & Yoko's project) Arbor Day, and will be accessible by most threatened trees. There will also be 23. Professor's address 64. Sell traditional landline phones as well as a place to nominate favorite trees to the 25. Eager willingness 65. Front or sold enders computers and electronic devices. The Fullerton Tree Inventory. 30. "Are you a man ___ mouse?" 66. Washed out program will feature a short video of The group hopes to increase commu- 31. Words of comprehension 67. "The Ice Storm" director Lee “Special Trees of Fullerton” and intro- nity awareness of the importance of 32. What is celebrated on 68. Work at a keyboard duce the committee’s first three proj- trees and invites the public to join in April 22, with 45-Across 69. Goulash ects: their mission to save Fullerton’s her- • Saving Fullerton’s 10 Most itage trees. Threatened Trees To RSVP, call or text 714-729-3019 • Inventorying Fullerton’s Significant with your preferred way to join Zoom Trees (e-mail or phone) and you will be called 12. Busy bee in Apr. • Encouraging Proper Tree Care or texted with either a phone number to DOWN 14. NYG tries to do this on MNF Whether you are interested in orna- call in or an online link to Zoom in. 1. Chester Arthur's middle name 16. Defeat decisively mental, agricultural, or native trees, This is also the number to ask questions 2. Chrysalis, for example 22. King of France there will be something for you. There or get involved. 3. Staggered 24. Pool tool will also be an opportunity to join in the 4. Ukr. or Est., once 5. Nastase of 1970s tennis 25. Winter woe 6. Peaty places 26. Suffix with buck 7. Oat and fruit cereal 27. Habit that gets out of hand? 8. "Hill ___ Blues" (TV drama) 28. Darjeeling or oolong 9. Kind of ball 29. Brusque 10. Light-heavyweight boxing 33. Ziki starter (Mediterranean dip) champ Beterbiev 34. Casual greetings 11. Late actor Davis 36. Raced 38. German article 39. Place for hangers 42. List abbr. 44. Pitching star 47. "___ and the Pendulum" 48. TV journalist Stahl 49. ___ Klock (art deco clock since 1932) 50. La Scala cheer 51. Japanese noodle dish 55. Canvas cover 56. Latin 101 word 58. Was a passenger 59. All over again 60. Stylish, in the 60's 63. Uncertainties Page 8 FULLERTON OBSERVER EDUCATION MID-APRIL 2021

SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTES Pandemic Relief Education Funding by Jan Youngman

Fullerton School District Board meets at 6pm on by Vivien Moreno ventilation system updates, and other 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month at district headquarters, facilities upgrades, to accommodate 1401 W. Valencia Dr., Fullerton. Recent media coverage has mainly greater personal space requirements. For agenda go to: www.fsd.k12.ca.us or call 714-447-7400 focused on presumed learning loss and Districts can also purchase new techno- the large amounts of education money logical equipment and support services. dedicated to support returning to in-per- There are additional separate nutritional son education and tackling the pandemic funding blocks to provide increased academic and mental health toll experi- amounts of student meals. April 13 School Board Meeting enced by students, families, and teach- It may be tempting to want to invest a ers. Details are being hammered out significant amount of this money imme- Next Meeting is April 27 concerning money distribution, how diately to address perceived student funds can be spent, and the various needs as some students return to in-per- deadlines to spend these mainly one- son learning. Most education specialists Graduation News time money streams, as state legislators are urging caution, giving teachers and Recognitions determine who controls this influx of students a few months to get used to in- Congratulations to Parks Junior High Jeremy Davis shared tentative promo- money and how it can be used to support person classroom teaching before for- School, recognized as a California tion celebration plans for 6th and 8th students most effectively. mal testing and making sweeping Distinguished School. The Board con- grades. Any 6th grade ceremony will be Additional education money is com- changes. Both Fullerton school districts gratulated all three junior highs for the small. There will be a possible drive- ing into school districts from three main are planning a robust summer school great work of their committed staff, through ceremony and/or a "pre-record- Federal COVID-19 relief bills and program along with tutorial services. teachers, and principals. ed event and taking pictures with the California will supplement the State’s Expanding mental health support and Al LaCuestra is retiring after 30 years principal.” $80 billion education budget with social and emotional learning services of service to the District. He began For the 8th grade graduations, the almost $6.6 billion. Most of the supple- may calm anxiety that many students working at the District at age 14 through District is considering providing a photo ment is categorized as one-time money seem to be experiencing even when a special City program. He has also backdrop and balloon arches to drive with 2–3-year time limits to spend it returning to a hybrid schedule. Student served as the CSEA Chapter #130 through. Staff is currently looking at a before it returns to the point of origin. Board Member Jenna Beining voiced President. blanket being provided to sit on and to Most of the Federal and State money her own concerns about possible feel- The Board thanked Providence St. keep. No chairs will be allowed. Yard will be distributed through the Local ings of anxiety for herself and fellow Jude Medical Center for providing vac- signs will also be provided. Ceremony Control Funding Formula (LCFF) and classmates at the last FJUHSD Special cinations to FSD staff. The District has will be restricted to two parents and the Title 1 monetary distribution systems. Board meeting on March 30 when the presented St. Jude with 3 mosaics made students—all with masks. Reservations The California Department of Education Board approved a return (on April 19) to by students and staff in appreciation of will be required of everyone attending. (CDE) will retain 10% of the Federal four days a week, in-person learning for their relationship with the District, its An online link or Zoom will be for avail- supplemental funding to spend on all students in cohorts A and B. Her teachers, and students. able for relatives at home. Teachers will statewide programs addressing learning statement concerning the unanticipated Dr. Pletka thanked Mark Jablonski, read names as students pass by but there loss and pandemic issues. Fullerton anxiety she and fellow students have who has been the liaison to the District will be no handing out of diplomas. School District expects an additional felt, even during a hybrid schedule, rec- from Providence St. Jude Medical Several of the Board Members said $2884 per pupil ($36,079,898 total) and ognized that additional mental health Center for many years. He was thanked they were looking forward to next year. the Fullerton Joint Union High School support may tax the District’s current for the great ongoing partnership the Trustee Sugarman said that she was District should receive $2872 per pupil emotional support service ability, a District has had with the Medical Center "excited that school is going to be ‘real’ ($38,017,166 total). The amounts are warning to administrators of more issues adopting different schools. Recently, he in the fall.” average for North Orange County where to come when the entire student popula- was instrumental in providing vaccina- Save the date for upcoming fundraiser Anaheim Union High School District tion will most likely return to in-person tions for teachers and District personal. for Ladera Vista Junior High School: will receive an additional $4,371 per education in August. Holocaust Art and Writing Contest May 8—Drive In Movie Night. $80 per pupil and Placentia/ Yorba Linda After over a year of uncertain distance Finalists. Students from Ladera Vista car, maximum of four people per car. Unified will receive $1,856 per pupil. and hybrid learning schedules, many Junior High School participated in the edsource.org/2021/california-districts- students, teachers, and parents may wish Chapman University Rodgers Center Orangethorpe School and-charter-schools-get-covid-relief- to quickly return to a normal schedule. It Holocaust Art and Writing Contest, each Receives Civic funding-under-american-rescue-plan- is clear that creating this post-pandemic winning second place. Congratulations act/650922. academic environment is going to take Violet, Rhiannon, and Lydia in their Learning Award School districts can spend these sup- constant dialogue among students, areas. 5,000 entries were submitted Orangethorpe School was awarded a plemental funds in many ways, includ- teachers, and their families, with addi- worldwide. Civic Learning Award of Merit by a ing teacher and staff bonuses and tional long-term support from adminis- panel of judges and educators selected stipends. It will not be used to lower trators, in order for students to success- Superintendent's Report by the California Chief Justice’s Power classroom size since public school dis- fully assess their areas of need after this Superintendent Pletka is looking for- of Democracy Steering Committee. tricts will not use one-time money to difficult year. Along with providing Orangethorpe School is one of only 32 hire teachers. This is due to State budg- funding, district administrators need to ward to the reopening of schools next fall and going back to normal. He also California Schools receiving this special etary restrictions and teacher union continuously communicate with teach- award. Orangethorpe School received negotiated contracts concerning class ers and students to implement multiple praised all the office staff at the District Office and the schools in going above the Civic Learning Award for Project sizes. Parents, students, and other stake- long-term solutions necessary for the Curiosity: The Art and Science of holders can request services, programs, students to gain skills for future academ- and beyond in working with students and families during these challenging Nature. Each grade level engages in a and facility upgrades through school site ic and career success. Students and fam- conservation project that empowers stu- councils, Local Control Accountability ilies are urged to keep up the safety pro- times. dents to make a positive impact on the Plan (LCAP) advisory committees, and tocols, reach out to teachers, counselors, world around them. FETA Report by writing directly to the and community liaisons to share their Working with the hybrid model was Superintendent. concerns, and get supplemental academ- Public Comments The LCFF allows school districts flex- ic, mental, and physical health support challenging. Some students excelled at ibility to use a majority of the supple- when necessary. Taking the time to talk Distance Learning and "Virtual camp- Due to COVID-19 public comments mental money to address local issues. to students and assess student needs ing,” yet everyone is looking forward to cannot be made in person at the school The money can be used for summer while remaining flexible and open to fall. The District will offer summer board meeting. Public comments may be school, tutoring, mental, physical, and new solutions will allow schools to school and various camps for students submitted by email to: publiccom- emotional health programs and services, spend money wisely and lead to better this summer. [email protected] on or before the Board on-going purchases of safety equipment, outcomes. Meeting. It must include first and last District Approved name of the person submitting the public comment. Limit comments to 450 the Following words or less to address the Board on

Contracts/Agreements each agenda or non-agenda item. An • Contract with Marzano Research email for public comment must be sub- Laboratory to provide the Fullerton mitted by specific agenda item or topic School District with High Reliability and not combined. The video recording Schools (HRS) professional develop- of this meeting is posted to the District's ment for the 2020/2021 school year. YouTube site and the District will utilize • Memorandum of Understanding YouTube's closed captioning software to with the Fullerton Elementary Teachers enhance the meeting. The closed cap- Association (FETA) on Innovation tioning cannot be considered part of the Experience for 2021. public record as it is not a word-for- • Pupil Attendance Calendar for word accurate representation of the 2022/2023 school year. meeting.

MID-APRIL 2021 YOUNG OBSERVERS FULLERTON OBSERVER Page 9

The warmup game is a great way to touched by her gratitude because I never TEEN OBSERVER by Francine, 9th grade break the ice, especially for the shy thought such a small act of kindness ones. The club leaders screen-share a would make a great impact on someone grid with characters showing different else’s life and I knew I received a emotions. We share which emotion of greater gift than what I had given. Clubs Help in Personal the character we feel and get to express Knowing firsthand how my donation ourselves, which I find very inclusive has been greatly appreciated, I felt a Development Goals and engaging. rush of serotonin, oxytocin, and (Have You Thought of Joining One?) Periodically, we hold activities like dopamine, the happy chemicals in my visiting a nursing home (not possible body that nourish my mental health. It during the pandemic), sending home- also reminded me that my purpose in made thank-you cards to front-liners, life is not just to secure my future but to I first joined a club in 4th grade. My I enjoy all of the activities in the Girls especially the doctors and nurses, or also think how I can use my skills and interest in coding led me to join the Club but I always look forward to the donating supplies to homeless shelters. resources to help improve the lives of robotics club in school and I competed class on values because it is a rare Just recently, each club member did a others. through 6th grade. I acquired skills in opportunity to nurture my personal life. community service project. For my part, I never thought clubs could make a building and coding robots, made new During our Zoom meeting last month, I I gathered canned goods from our house huge difference in a young person’s life. friends, and learned the value of team- learned the value of understanding the pantry and my collection of small bot- Whether it is athletic, art, music, aca- work. worth of women both in the workplace tles of shampoos, conditioners, and demic, foodie, or charity club, I think it There are more clubs available to stu- and at home. Like a typical high school lotions from hotels we have visited in is worth giving it a try. dents in junior high and high school that student, I am so caught up in planning the past. Then, I asked my parents to For school clubs, you can ask your provide opportunities to pursue interests for my future career. The class made me drive me to the homeless shelter where I teacher or visit your school website to and create hotspots for making new realize that while there is nothing wrong volunteered before the pandemic. get information on clubs. For other friends. In junior high, I joined the with my mindset, it helps to also under- As I unloaded my donations, one of clubs, you can ask family and friends for CyberPatriots club and spent after- stand women’s role at home. This means the residents told me she is very grateful recommendations. school hours learning cyber security and that just as I am preoccupied with because it is a great help to them. I was participating in competitions. Despite preparing for college, it is also important the pandemic limiting high school club to train myself in managing my future activities this year, I am able to actively home. I should not use my homework as participate in the California Scholarship an excuse not to do chores. I should train Federation through online volunteer to be as skillful in cooking or cleaning YOUTH ADVOCACY Mateo, 7th grade projects and Zoom meetings. the toilet or bath just as I am working to While school clubs offer a wide vari- excel in math or science. The class also ety of options based on a students’ inter- reminded me that I need to express more Help Save the Earth ests, I realized I was looking for some- gratitude to my mom for all her hard thing more. When I officially became a work in maintaining a happy home. teen at 13, I started thinking beyond These practical tips are so valuable to Earth Day is right around the corner 2) Limit use of electronics and gas- doing well in school. I wanted to grow me and I find them so heartfelt because on April 22. It is the day we celebrate the powered devices. These give off harmful into a person of strong moral values with these are given by older teens who are beauty of the Earth by cleaning it up. emissions which pollute the air. Nine out a keen sense of social responsibility also striving to do the same thing. However, because of pollution, the of 10 people around the world, possibly while exploring career options and culti- Although I know the career I want to Earth isn’t looking too good. There are including you, are currently breathing vating friendships with other teens who pursue in the future, I find the career solutions to combat this problem and polluted air because of this. have similar goals. This led me to join talks very helpful. Through the industry many of them are easy to include in your 3) Recycle. Give your trash a brand the Girls Club of Southern California information and personal experience daily life. If you choose to make Earth- new life instead of throwing it away whose mission matches what I was shared by the speaker, I gain insider friendly choices, you could help save the where it can end up in the ocean or in a looking for. Started over 20 years ago by information from different professionals Earth one step at a time. Earth Day is a landfill. There are recycling stations that a group of parents, the Girls Club has working in a variety of fields and I feel great day to start. Here are some simple buy empty cans or plastic containers so grown into 13 mini-clubs. Meetings are their passion through powerful presenta- steps you can take to make the world a you can even make money by recycling. held once a month over a two-hour peri- tions and stimulating Kahoot competi- better place: Three simple habits can make our od that includes games and crafts, a tions. Additionally, the welcoming vibe 1) Dispose of trash properly so it world a happier place. Our world is pre- class on values, and a career talk by a of the club encourages me to continue doesn't end up in the ocean or get eaten cious, and if we don’t keep it safe, who guest professional. participating in the monthly meetings. by an animal, which kills millions of knows what will happen to the next few them each year. generations?

TRIBUTE Erin, 6th grade

WHAT’S TRENDING? FENDER: FULLERTON’S PRIDE by Irene, 9th grade

A Turning Point in Restoring the Film Industry? Warner Bros. and Legendary Entertainment’s latest movie, “Godzilla vs. Kong” screened in US theaters and on HBO Max on March 31 and has received positive feedback from audi- ences across the country ever since. The movie was released in China a week prior to its debut in the US, and amassed $70 million in only three days. Likewise, this action film generated $16.7 million domestically in a two-day period — a record-breaking earning during this pandemic. On a global note, the movie raked in $121 million in international box office revenue. Theaters expect the film to be played in over 3,064 locations across the country. And with more and more in-person theaters opening in the US, this movie suggests a turning point in restoring the film industry that struggles from COVID-19 safety restrictions. “Godzilla vs. Kong” opens the prospects of a return to a pre-pandemic “normal life.” Page 10 FULLERTON OBSERVER SCIENCE MID-APRIL 2021

WHY CALIFORNIA’S FIRST-IN-WORLD PLAN TO MONITOR MICROPLASTICS IN DRINKING WATER MATTERS by Sarah Mosko blood of U.S. babies contains an average of 200 industrial chemicals and pollu- Every one of us, even unborn fetuses, tants. are continually exposed to microplastics That the placenta might also fail to that have become such ubiquitous global shield against microplastics in the environmental pollutants that they now maternal circulation was first suggested Microplastics contaminate the everyday air, food, and by a 2010 Swiss research finding that are showing up water we take in. polystyrene beads up to 240 nanometers in beer, oysters, Given a growing body of evidence crossed through laboratory samples of table salt and that many chemicals in plastics pose human placenta. Earlier this year, Italian drinking water. human health risks, Californians should scientists confirmed that a variety of welcome recently-passed legislation microplastics, roughly 10 microns and putting the state on path to be the first to small enough to travel in blood vessels, track microplastics in tap water. pass the placenta in human fetuses prior Because plastics are highly resistant to to birth. biodegradation, instead fragmenting Whether microplastics make their way into ever smaller bits, eventually reach- into the bodies of fetuses remains an microplastics or what, if any, measures already an industry headache because ing micron and nanometer unknown. However, a would be taken if levels exceed those they clog the filtration membranes, and dimensions (there are 25.4 recent laboratory study in limits. processes being developed to capture million nanometers in one rats showed that nano- California’s task in implementing the microplastics prior to filtration are high- inch)—they travel unseen sized polystyrene beads law is daunting. There is no scientific ly complex and costly. in wind and waterways so The public introduced into the air- consensus yet on a definition of The public should not be fooled into that even the most remote should not be ways of mother rats microplastics in drinking water or how thinking microplastics can be avoided regions of the globe, like translocated not only to to test for them, and research into the by drinking bottled water, as studies the Arctic seabed and sum- fooled into other organs in the moth- health risks from microplastics in sampling numerous brands typically dis- mit of Mount Everest, are thinking ers’ bodies but also to the humans (and fetuses) is in its infancy. cover more plastic debris in bottled than contaminated with microplastics liver, lungs, heart, kidney, Orange County’s water derives from tap water. microplastics. can be avoided and brain of their fetuses. both the local groundwater basin, man- For the concerned consumer, the Global plastics produc- By ignoring the buildup aged by the Orange County Water surest way presently to eliminate tion exceeded 360 million by drinking of plastics throughout the District, and pipeline imports from microplastics in water is to invest in a metric tons in 2019 and bottled water. natural environment, northern California and the Colorado whole home or single tap filtering sys- shows no signs of leveling humanity has been blindly River, managed by the Metropolitan tem. Carbon block and reverse osmosis off, so it’s no surprise playing Russian roulette Water District of Southern California. technologies, for example, are highly microplastics (smaller than with our health and that of Both agencies opposed the legislation, effective but can be pricey. 5mm) are increasingly future generations. though do recognize microplastics as a While there’s no pathway yet for get- showing up in disturbing From that perspective, “contaminant of emerging concern.” ting microplastics out of the public places like house dust, beer, table salt, it’s welcome news that California is In explaining the opposition, water supply, assessing the current load indoor air, drinking water, seafood, embarking on establishing the first ever spokespersons from both agencies cited of contamination is nonetheless a wise, plankton, and human poop. health-based guidelines for acceptable numerous uncertainties they foresaw in proactive first step. Contrast this with Many constituents of plastics and the levels of microplastics in drinking water, executing the law because much of the the conclusion of a 2019 report from the pollutants they pick up from the envi- as specified in the 2018 California Safe research needed for implementation had World Health Organization that “routine ronment are known to be endocrine dis- Drinking Water Act: Microplastics not been done. For example, the State monitoring of microplastics in drinking- ruptors, carcinogens, or developmental (SB1422). This State law is an extension Water Board has yet to inform on such water is not necessary at this time.” toxins that pose the greatest threat to of the 1974 Federal statute that requires basics as how often and at what sites Assertions that there’s no need to developing fetuses. For example, monitoring and public notifications of sampling will occur and how to accredit monitor because the threats to human Bisphenol-A (BPA), a building block of tap water contaminants. testing laboratories. health are unclear (or that monitoring certain plastics, was banned nationwide In addition to meeting a July 1 dead- But as stressed by Theresa Slifko, will be costly) remind me of how we from use in baby bottles and sippy cups line to develop standardized methods for Metropolitan’s Water System barreled ahead producing glowing in 2012 because its mimicry of the hor- detecting microplastics in drinking Operations Unit Manager, the founda- watch dials painted with radioactive mone estrogen tampers with sexual water, California’s Water Board is man- tional problem is “there is no solid radium before the effects of radium development in both males and females. dated to conduct four years of statewide methodology” to identify and quantify exposure were well-defined. Many Fetal exposure to phthalates, chemical monitoring with public disclosure of the all the types of microplastics in drinking young women who painted those watch additives that render plastics soft and results. If the findings of a previous water. Though California is the first to dials suffered radiation-induced illness- pliable, lowers sperm counts. review study of microplastics in drink- mandate monitoring, the fact that there es and death. The placenta in humans has historical- ing water turn out to be representative of are ongoing international studies involv- Radiation is invisible, and that ly been viewed as a reliable barrier pro- our State, Californians can expect to ing dozens of laboratories around the microplastics are largely unseen too is tecting the fetus from potential dangers learn we are imbibing thousands to tens world working to develop standardized relevant to understanding how we’ve lurking in the mother’s bloodstream. of thousands of microplastics annually methods, speaks to the universality of allowed them to so thoroughly contami- This fantasy has been shattered by from water alone. the problem. nate our world and everyday life. shocking revelations in recent decades, The law falls far short, however, of Also looming is a fundamental ques- Nevertheless, most of us would refuse like a 2005 report from Environmental designating any obligation or timetable tion of whether conventional approaches a food or beverage visibly contaminated Working Group that umbilical cord for setting limits on acceptable levels of to mitigation, such as identifying point with bits of plastic, even though the sources of pollution or filtering out con- risks to health are unclear. It’s just com- taminants, make any sense given the mon sense. ubiquity of microplastics in the environ- Our State legislators who’ve put ment and the miniscule dimensions they California at the forefront of addressing can assume. microplastics pollution in drinking Ocean water desalination is not a water should be commended for taking ready solution at this time either. The rational precautionary action in the pub- abundant microplastics in seawater are lic’s interest.

australianswimschool.com MID-APRIL 2021 FEATURE FULLERTON OBSERVER PAGE 11

An Interview with Congresswoman Young Kim by Lance Langdon Young Kim is the current the U.S. • This year, state legislatures have proposed over 250 different laws to Representative for California's 39th con- restrict voting rights. Yet you voted against HR 1, a law which would protect gressional district. A member of the minorities’ right to vote, stating that it “codifies misguided policies like Republican Party, her district includes north- ballot harvesting.” Would you please explain what you mean by that? ern parts of Orange County, including Fullerton. In the 2020 United States House Voting is one of our most fundamental cies like preventing states from banning of Representatives elections, Kim, along rights in America. We must promote fair third party ballot collection. with Michelle Park Steel (R-CA) and and secure elections to ensure as many Note: Regarding third party ballot col- Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), became one of eligible citizens as possible can vote and lection, Congresswoman Kim refer- the first three Korean-American women ever have their voices heard at the ballot box. enced HR1 Section 1621, 307, f2a and elected to the United States Congress. Kim However, HR1 is a massive, partisan f2b, which stipulates that the State previously served as the California State overreach on states’ constitutional “shall permit a voter to designate any Assemblywoman for the 65th district from authority by imposing one-size-fits-all person to return a voted and sealed 2014 to 2016. In 2018, Kim was the mandates to our election system instead absentee ballot [ . . .] so long as the Republican Party candidate in California's of equipping local entities with the tools person designated to return the ballot 39th congressional district; she was defeated by Democrat Gil Cisneros in the general election. In 2020, Kim and Cisneros to secure elections. does not receive any form of compensa- faced off again, and Kim defeated Cisneros. Below is an interview with Additionally, HR1 allows public funds tion based on the number of ballots that Congresswoman Kim, lightly edited for length and clarity. to be used for funding political cam- the person has returned” and that the paigns to the tune of millions of dollars, State also “may not put any limit on makes the non-partisan Federal Election • Just a few days after you were sworn in for the first time as a member how many voted and sealed absentee of the US Congress, on January 6 the Capitol was assaulted. Commission partisan, politicizes the ballots any designated person can What was that day and evening like for you? IRS, and nationalizes misguided poli- return.”

While I knew January 6 would be a and sadness for our country. I also had • You also voted against the Equality Act, which would give LGBTQ+ contentious day, none of my colleagues found out that afternoon that I had been people the same protections against discrimination that are afforded to expected that our lives might be on the exposed to COVID-19. Once we were women and people of color in federal law. You state that this bill line. My staff and I were on lockdown in out of lockdown, I was able to get a “undermines Americans’ religious freedoms” and “limits protections for our office and watched the events tran- COVID-19 test and I did my constitu- people of faith.” Could you please elaborate on those statements? spire. There was a lot of confusion, fear tional duty and certified the election for the law enforcement protecting us after I received my negative test results. I believe all people should be treated simply providing protections for the with kindness and respect and that all LGBTQ+ community. I am open to • You voted not to impeach Donald Trump. Americans should have the opportunity alternatives to this legislation and will Would you support Trump for president in 2024? to succeed and achieve their dream just continue to work to promote equality The Republican Party has so many Congress and getting through the grid- like I did. The Equality Act, while well- and equal access to opportunities for rising stars that represent diverse com- lock and working in a bipartisan way to intentioned, went much further than Americans of all backgrounds. munities and bring unique perspectives find commonsense solutions for my to the table. I’m sure the 2024 field for constituents. That is exactly what I did • You have broken with your Republican colleagues in the House on some president offers voters many choices by joining with my Democratic col- issues: for example, you stripped one colleague of committee assignments but that is the last thing I am consider- leagues to pass the PPP Extension Act because she spread hate speech and promoted conspiracy theories; and you ing right now. that will help businesses remain open supported the Violence Against Women Act. Are there other issues on which My top priority is serving California’s and save jobs right here in our commu- you foresee you will break with the majority of your party? 39th Congressional District in nities. I came to Congress to get through the help our small businesses remain open partisan gridlock and be an independent and save jobs, ensuring Americans have • You recently introduced two bipartisan bills to streamline the Small voice for my constituents. This isn’t the mental health resources they need Business Administration loan process for small manufacturers. about siding with one party or the other, during COVID-19, protecting our sen- You also sponsored an extension of the paycheck protection act (PPP loans). it’s about getting results. Working across iors’ healthcare, and protecting victims Why is supporting small businesses such a priority for you the aisle in order to move our country of domestic abuse and sexual assault. I and do you foresee sponsoring any other bills related to this issue? forward is something that I have done will never be afraid to speak out on Small businesses fuel our local Innovation, Entrepreneurship and by introducing bipartisan legislation to behalf of my constituents across CA-39. economies and employ more than half of Workforce Development, I’m commit- our state’s workforce. With 20,000 small ted to supporting entrepreneurs of all • You’re a member of the bipartisan House group “Problem Solvers businesses permanently closing during backgrounds. I’m excited that my first Caucus.” Given the fierce partisanship in Washington, many proposals COVID-19, we must ensure that our bipartisan bill became law last week to from this group have died. What bills do you think your group can business owners can receive relief they give our small business owners more successfully pass into law in 2021? need to keep their doors open and save time to apply for PPP relief as we work jobs. As a small business owner, I under- to safely reopen our communities. I’ll With Democrats having tight majori- to promote many bipartisan priorities, stand the struggles our small businesses continue to work in a bipartisan way to ties in the House and Senate, we must such as updating our infrastructure, fix- face each day, and as lead Republican of get results that matter here in the 39th work in a bipartisan way to get things ing our broken immigration system, the Small Business Subcommittee on District. done. The Problem Solvers Caucus has securing our border, boosting vaccine shown they can build consensus to get availability, and more. The caucus also • What is your priority as a member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs? big things done as we recently saw with wrote to House and Senate Leadership CA-39 is one of the most diverse dis- during this pivotal moment during the the bipartisan COVID-19 relief package asking to return to regular order to offer tricts in the nation, and from trade to our COVID-19 pandemic. The Foreign Congress passed in December 2020. the chance for more bipartisanship and key relationships with allies in Asia and Affairs Committee will be at the center I joined my freshman colleagues to collaboration. While every bill may not Central America, policies made in the of many of these important policy con- write to President Biden that we want to pass starting from a place of bipartisan Foreign Affairs Committee will directly versations, and I look forward to doing work in a bipartisan way, and I’ve joined understanding is something that will impact many in our community. my part to work with my colleagues on my Problem Solvers Caucus colleagues move us forward. Additionally, we have seen how impor- both sides of the political aisle to tant foreign relations are, both in today’s advance policies that benefit the U.S. • Gil Cisneros narrowly beat you in 2018 (51.6% to 48.4%) and you interconnected world and, in particular, across the globe. defeated him in 2020 by an even narrower margin (50.6% to his 49.4%). What do you see as your mandate in such a closely divided district? • Let’s talk about some of your recent “no” votes on House bills, beginning I came to Congress to get through the duce to extend the Paycheck Protection with immigration reform. You voted against two bills with a large measure partisan gridlock and work in a biparti- Program deadline became law. Another of bipartisan support: HR 6, the “Dream Act,” and HR 1603, san way to find commonsense solutions bill of mine to help Taiwan regain its the Farm Workforce Modernization Act. and get things done for my constituents. role in the World Health Organization Are there other immigration bills in the works that you do support? Now that I am in Congress, my job is to has 71 bipartisan cosponsors and just As an immigrant who went through the groups. I would like to support a clean deliver results. I am proud that all the passed committee markup, as well. I’ll legal process to become a citizen, I DREAM Act. bills I have introduced are bipartisan, continue to work in a bipartisan way to understand how much immigrants con- I believe we must fix our broken immi- and that less than three months into my deliver results for my constituents tribute to our country and truly appreci- gration system and create a system that first term, a bipartisan bill I helped intro- across California’s 39th District. ate the value that immigrants bring to is fair and considerate, and we must our communities. secure our border and points of entry to • It's 2021. What does the Republican Party stand for? I also want to create a legislative fix for our country. If we have people coming DACA recipients who have only known across the border or overstaying VISAs, I believe the Republican Party is the business, raise a family, and achieve my the U.S. as their home and have had their it undermines our immigration system Grand Opportunity Party that stands for American dream and resonate with status in limbo for decades. and is unfair to immigrants who go the American worker, helping small Americans of all backgrounds. I was The package in front of Congress went through the legal process. businesses, a dynamic economy, and proud to be elected alongside a diverse far beyond giving legal status to I hope Republicans and Democrats can promoting American values. Republican GOP freshman class, and I hope I can Dreamers; it granted legal sta-tus to come together where past Congresses policies of promoting enterprise and use my voice to make a positive impact those who arrived in the U.S. as recently have failed and find a bipartisan immi- empowering individuals to succeed are in Congress and get things done for as January of 2021, as well as other gration and border security solution. what have allowed me to own a small California’s 39th District. Page 12 FULLERTON OBSERVER FEATURE MID-APRIL 2021

I’ve always been fascinated with silk hat standing on a platform and films, especially the production process assuring the adventurers that the good behind them. It’s interesting to find out wishes of the entire town followed where the films you’ve watched were them.” The byline of the article docu- actually made. Following Observer menting the filming in the July 7, 1927 reader Linda Henke’s suggestion, I edition of the Fullerton News Tribune decided to look into a history of movies read, “Best Thing Movie Folk Do is shot on location here in Fullerton, from Wait, Observers Discover,” because long ago to present day. locals who witnessed the filming of the According to writer Jim Sleeper’s scenes all agreed that making moving- research in his book, Great Movies Shot pictures is mainly a process of waiting. in Orange County, “no fewer than five The actors arrived on location at about hundred films, ranging from comic eight o’clock on the morning. A Santa Filming of “Tunnels” in 1988. Photo courtesy of the Fullerton shorts and newsreels to full-length Fe engine and old style observation cars Public Library Local History Room. silents and even a few talkies” were arrived soon after, but not a single shot made in Orange County between 1910 was taken until almost noon. and 1930. On a local level, one of the On January 20, 1928, the Fullerton downtown area. In fact, according to the (2001), and “Waking Up in Reno” first movies that the Fullerton Public News Tribune reported that the City’s August 1988 issue of the Fullerton (2002), also used the city of Fullerton as Library’s Local History Room has a picturesque old Santa Fe station provid- Observer, Purple People Eater a backdrop, according to the 2004 record of dates back to ed “atmosphere” for Productions employed former Fullerton Ultimate Guide to Orange County. 1923. According to a another motion picture resident Linda Shayne, who was also a Observer copy-editor Terry Hendricks January 3, 1923 issue production, this time 1974 graduate of Sunny Hills High remembers that when she taught at of the Fullerton News used by Universal School, to direct the film. At the time, Fullerton High School, a fellow teacher Tribune from the In 2016, Studios for an early according to then City Public in her department had made the movie library’s archives, the Fullerton’s morning scene, with Information Coordinator Sylvia “Dreamrider.” Hendricks said via email, movie “Her Fatal 1950s-esque filmmakers bringing sev- Mudrick, “Linda wanted to come back “When I taught at FUHS, Bill Brown Millions” concluded setting provided eral large busses and a to her hometown, and the exorbitant fees talked about making his movie filming at the old fleet of trucks and small- that other cities were asking made that “Dreamrider” and how he had used the Santa Fe train station. a nice backdrop er cars transporting extras very economical.” “The Purple People high school campus in filming it. James The film played at the for the filming and equipment. The film Eater” was also written by Shayne and Earl Jones was in the movie, along with Rialto Theater in of the Coen itself isn’t mentioned by told the story of a Purple People Eater several teachers in the social science Fullerton later that Brothers/George name in the article, but who comes to Earth to form a Rock N’ department.” year. Interestingly, the this is yet another exam- Roll band and develops a friendship “Evolution,” a science-fiction film film’s depot scenes Clooney ple of a film production with a boy (played by a young Neil that starred the “X-Files”’ David were shot here in film company using the “Patrick” Harris) and the boy’s grandfa- Duchovny and was directed by Fullerton because the “Suburbicon.” Fullerton train depot to ther (Ned Beatty). The movie’s stars “Ghostbusters’” Ivan Reitman, used Cal producers and director pose as a movie setting. included Shelley Winters, Peggy Lipton, State Fullerton’s campus to stand in for wanted an old-style In 1935, the baseball Thora Birch, Chubby Checker, and an Arizona Community College. station that fit with one film “Alibi Ike,” with Joe Little Richard, among others. “The In 2016, Fullerton’s 1950s-esque set- of the scenes written in E. Brown—movie come- Purple People Eater” was based on the ting provided a nice backdrop for the the screenplay. Cheri Pape, Local dian and baseball fan—“heading a cast hit novelty song of 1958 by the same filming of the Coen Brothers/Clooney History Archivist at the Fullerton Public that includes big league baseball play- name; the song’s original writer-per- film “Suburbicon,” which was shot over Library, mentioned that the Fullerton ers,” made use of the Amerige park former Sheb Wooley appears as a tra- on Ash Avenue. Fullerton residents train station has been used briefly in baseball field, according to a March 3 peze teacher in the movie. Fullerton watched as director George Clooney and many, many films. In fact, when my par- edition of the Fullerton News Tribune. civic leaders at the time also got into the stars like Matt Damon and Julianne ents and I were watching Turner Classic Directed by Ray Enright, “Alibi Ike” act, including Councilman A.B. ‘Buck’ Moore filmed their scenes on Ash Movies the other night, we saw a train features Brown as a brash Chicago Cubs Catlin, Development Services Director Avenue, a street that was selected due to station in the Doris Day/Rock Hudson rookie hurler who’s always ready with Paul Dudley and Councilwoman Molly lack of trees, which the City had film, “Send Me No Flowers,” that excuses for his mistakes. At the time, the McClanahan. What’s interesting is that removed the previous year because of looked almost exactly like Fullerton’s film’s producers “extended an invitation the production company, in search of a sewer and sidewalk issues. Santa Fe depot. to the general public to see movies in the suitable location for the 1950s apartment The filmmakers also liked the neigh- Jumping back in time to 1927, making and serve as the grandstand scenes, checked out some of Fullerton’s borhood because quite a lot of the hous- Fullerton was transformed into a little crowd for the film,” offering free admis- historical sites, and settled on a well- es were built around 1959, the time peri- Mid-western town by the name of sion to the ballpark in order to try to kept, but older apartment court complex od in which “Suburbicon” was supposed Lonsdale. For the filming of scenes for convince Fullerton residents to “stand- on North Pomona. Scenes were also shot to take place. The Observer ran exten- “Trail of ’93,” a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in” as extras. However, rain delayed the at the Fullerton Car Wash on Harbor sive coverage of the filming, which was special, the City’s identity was changed film company’s plans. March 4, 1935 Boulevard and at Sunny Hills High written about both in Mike Ritto’s col- to that of a village in the year 1898. marked the first day of Fullerton spring School. umn, and David Spargur’s and Kandra Once again, the City’s Santa Fe station training camp that year for the Sheiks at Shayne told the OC Register that Kargo’s article in the early November was used as a backdrop. The scenes Amerige Park. According to the Fullerton projects a ‘50s-like quality of 2016 issue of the Observer. filmed in Fullerton featured “the depar- Fullerton News Tribune, “the ballpark “innocence,” a feeling that it’s “safe to More recently, in fall 2018, Netflix ture of a group of the town heroes for the was lined with trucks and equipment walk at night.” used the Fullerton Union High School Klondike. The entire populace was out from Warner Bros.” There were reports In February of 1988, “Tunnels,” a campus for its production of the show to bid them goodbye. There was the that Joe E. Brown was ill with “flu,” movie starring Catherine Bach and “The Politician.” I remember driving by pompous mayor in frock coat and tall which may have been another reason for Charlene Dallas, also filmed in Angelo’s and Vinci’s with my dad and the production schedule delay, along Fullerton. The production company was seeing the film production crew working with the weather. It turned out that attracted to the City because Fullerton in the distance with big lights. At the Brown was kept in bed for influenza, but didn’t charge filming fees at the time. time, the Fullerton High School sign he made it out to Amerige park on The comedy-adventure movie revolved was replaced with the sign for “St. March 10, to watch the game between around two female newspaper reporters Sebastian High School” for the Netflix the Hollywood Sheiks and Los Angeles who stumble onto underground tunnels production. Angels. He was eventually well enough and a sinister plot. The Chapman As Mike Ritto wrote in 2016, to resume filming and shooting contin- Building, Melody Inn, Villa del Sol, “Fullerton is the place to be for filming, ued until it was completed on March 30, Hillcrest Park, and the building that in more ways than one.” 1935. housed the Sarah Bain Gallery at the So, the next time you spot unusually According to IMDb, there are 176 time, were the locations used for the expensive-looking lighting and camera movie productions listed under the film- film, which all happened to be located equipment being loaded out of a bunch ing location of Fullerton. Quite a few on Harbor Boulevard. of vehicles parked together in one loca- members of the current Observer staff Movies, including “Dr. Caligari” tion, you’re probably looking at a film remember “The Purple People Eater” (1989), “Dreamrider” (1993), “Touch” production scheduled for a shoot in filming at locations around the City’s (1997), “Mothman” (2000), “Evolution” Fullerton. MID-APRIL 2021 FEATURE FULLERTON OBSERVER Page 13

The Assistance League of Fullerton Thrift Shop carefully curates the items that are donated by the community and offers them for affordable prices to shoppers.

FIGHTING FAST FASHION Two Assistance League volunteers help a shopper at checkout.

BY SHOPPING SECOND HAND Another ethical concern of fast fash- The Assistance League has 120 chap- ion are the labor practices employed in ters across the nation and is completely production. According to an article in volunteer-run. Their mission is to by Grace Widyatmadja with the industry’s constantly-changing The Guardian, the ability of brands to address the needs of local families and trends but it comes at a cost that is detri- sell clothes for such affordable prices is children. Beth Dieckhoff is a volunteer at the mental to the environment. due in part to their exploitive labor prac- The items they sell are donated by Assistance League Thrift Shop in Fashion production comprises 10% of tices. Companies seek out low-cost members of the community. The profits Fullerton but she was just a regular cus- total global carbon emissions according labor in other countries where people are made are put into programs that the tomer when she found the perfect skirt to Business Insider. Some of its environ- willing to work for very little pay, and in Assistance League has created to benefit to accompany her on her trip to France. mental impacts include the emission of some cases, these employees are chil- Fullerton’s families and children. She spent two weeks wearing that skirt greenhouse gases, the depletion of non- dren. “People like the fact that their money all over France and when she returned, renewable sources, and the use of large Awareness of these environmental and stays local,” Assistance League volun- she donated it back to the Assistance amounts of water and energy. Synthetic social issues have inspired people to teer Carol Bosman-Anderson said. “If League with the hope that the skirt could textiles like polyester and nylon take make alternative shopping choices. you’re supporting our chapter of the live another life with someone else. hundreds of years to biodegrade, if ever. For example, some have embraced the Assistance League, the money stays For so long, the fashion industry has These fibers end up contaminating water trend of shopping at thrift stores and right here in north Orange County.” fed into the business model known as sources and other environmental habi- upcycling old garments. The Assistance League Thrift Store is ‘fast fashion’ which refers to the rapid tats [See story on page 10]. “I think younger people are hugely one of the many thrift stores in mass production of trendy styles made According to the United Nations aware of the environment that they’re Fullerton. Others include Mustard from inexpensive, low-quality materials. Framework Convention on Climate inheriting. They are more aware of their Market, Zion Thrift Shop, and many As new styles premiere on runways Change in 2018, “Currently, total green- carbon footprint,” Dieckhoff said. more. during fashion week, well-known house gas emissions from textiles pro- Dieckhoff has seen many different Thrift shops are a sustainable option brands are quick to make them available duction, at 1.2 billion tonnes annually, people with varying needs and tastes for people who want to combat climate for cheaper prices in their stores, but are more than those of all international come into Fullerton’s Assistance League change and support local community these quick turnovers raise the question flights and maritime shipping combined. Thrift Shop. Along with the thrill of pos- organizations. of how ethical these practices are. By some estimates, sector emissions are sibly finding a special item, Dieckhoff is At first look, it seems like a quick and expected to rise by more than 60% by glad to see people shopping sustainably The Assistance League Thrift Shop is affordable way for everyone to keep up 2030.” even if they might not realize it. located at 233 W Amerige Ave.

Sci-Fi State of the City Toastmasters Club North Orange County Chamber will hosts a virtual State of the City Fullerton Fans of Sci-Fi and Fantasy in the Los on Thursday, April 29 at 11:00 am with Angeles and Orange County area now Mayor Bruce Whitaker. Hear about his have their own club in the Toastmasters vision for our community's future with International organization. The Worlds the theme, “Give P’s a Chance: of Wonder Toastmasters club will be a Potholes, Pipes, Pavement, Pensions, place for members to discuss their Protection and Prosperity.” The program favorite stories and characters from also includes updates from community books, movies, and TV shows – while leaders including City of Fullerton learning to become confident public Council members, St. Jude Medical speakers and influential leaders. Meetup Center, and Cal State University, Group: www.meetup.com/worlds-of- Fullerton. To register visit wonder-toastmasters. https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_qTRG_uoGSbSB9PZuis35Sw Troop 93 at the Bright Angel Trailhead. Photo courtesy of Brooke Mayoette. Troop 93 Goes to Grand Canyon Twelve scouts from Troop 93 of Fullerton went to the Grand Canyon over spring break. They were all very excited to go, especially since the outing last year was canceled due to COVID-19. They camped and saw lots of animals including elk, deer, and even two javalinas. They set out to hike the Bright Angel Trail but part of the way down they encountered trails covered in ice. Due to the narrow trail and the cliffs, they elected to head back up and hiked several miles along the beautiful rim trail instead. On the last day of the camp out it snowed. Several scouts had never seen it snow before so this made it an even more memorable trip. Troop 93 goes on many adventures and is looking forward to participating in the Love Fullerton day this month on Saturday, April 24. Page 14 FULLERTON OBSERVER ARTS & BOOKS MID-APRIL 2021

FULLERTON PUBLIC LIBRARY REOPENS (PLUS MORE LIBRARY UPDATES)

by Lance Langdon can be made Tuesday through Thursday from 11am to 5pm, and Friday and The library has reopened with Grab & Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Go Service. As of March 16, the main The Friends’ open-air Book Sale in “Semilla de la Discordia” by Mariana Núñez library opened up its doors to the public. front of the Library Conference Center That means that library patrons can continues each Wednesday from 9am to browse the shelves and use self-check- 1pm. “Made in California” out during this spring’s library hours: Budget. The Board agreed to dedicate @ BREA ART GALLERY • Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday: the next meeting on April 22 to the 11am to 7pm library budget, which will be adopted in 1 Civic Center Cir, Brea (714) 990-7730 www.breaartgallery.com • Friday & Saturday: 10am to 4pm May. The fiscal outlook remains unclear • Sunday & Monday: Closed at this time. The city of Fullerton is slat- Every year, this juried exhibit show- other safety measures will be required of To maintain safety during the continued to receive just under $35,000,000 in cases artwork from all over the state of all staff and visitors. Through June 18. ing pandemic, precautions are being federal funding as a result of the California and highlights artists in all Visitors can learn about future exhibi- taken: Visits are limited to half an hour American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. stages of their careers and offers them a tions and workshops at per guest; guests are asked to stay 6 feet What portion of those funds, if any, will chance to compete for a number of breaartgallery.com or by following the apart and to wear masks. The library be used to restore library funding to pre- awards, including the coveted solo show gallery on Facebook, Instagram, and staff is wiping down high-touch surfaces pandemic levels remains to be seen. opportunity. Twitter @breagallery. and quarantining returned items for 96 Hunt Library Revitalization “Made in California” will open to the Open hours are Wednesday through hours. Project. The Hunt Branch Library, cur- public on Saturday, April 24 at 12pm. Sunday, 12pm – 5pm. For more infor- Staffing. The library continues to rently closed, is undergoing revitaliza- There will not be an opening reception mation, call (714) 990-7731 or visit operate with a skeleton crew due to tion in order to improve the building and this year. Masks, social distancing, and www.breaartgallery.com. COVID-19 and anticipated revenue ultimately provide literacy, arts, and cul- shortfalls, which resulted in staff reduc- tural programming to our community. tions from 65 to 25 members. This This project is funded by a grant “Shades of Us” included a reduction in janitorial servic- requested by Assemblymember Sharon @ MUCKENTHALER CULTURAL CENTER es and other cuts. On a more positive Quirk-Silva from the California State 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton www.themuck.org (714)738-6595 note, the library this month was able to Library. rehire the Young Adult Librarian. Board members are excited to have Internet and Website. The Library historical architect John Loomis of Eloy Torrez explores US/WE Board of Trustees (The Board) is mov- Thirtieth Street Architects onboard for through his subjects. In this ing toward selecting a vendor to upgrade the Hunt project. ArtsOC is handling the exploration Torrez delves into its Internet capabilities, including community outreach concerning the the personalities and diverse Internet speed, data security, and search Hunt Library Revitalization Project. make up of his painted guests. capabilities. The project, whose total Those wishing to provide input can Guest curated by Jimmy cost could approach $500,000, will pri- reach Rick Stein at [email protected]. Centeno. April 29-July 1. marily be funded by the Federal A public survey went out in January Gallery is open Monday– Communications Commission's concerning the people’s wish-list for Thursday, 12-4pm. $5/group. Universal Service Administration what to do with the revitalized facility; a Reservations required. Only Company, a nonprofit corporation follow-up, “community visioning meet- available for private viewing whose mission is to promote universal ing” on that topic was held on Sunday, AltaMed employees and access to telecommunications services April 18 (details to follow in The their parties can have their nationwide. The library anticipates that Observer's next library update). admission charge waived by it will need to provide between $73,000 showing their employee badge. and $146,000 to fund the remaining por- The above news comes from the tion of the total cost. The Board will Library Board of Trustees meetings on receive those funds from the Fullerton February 25 and March 25, as well as Public Library Foundation. communication between Observer staff The Friends of the Library are back and Library Director Judy Booth. More in action. As of April 1, the group once information about the Library can be again began accepting donations at the found at www.fullertonlibrary.org or main library at their shed at the south- (714) 738-6333. west corner of the Library. Donations ID PRIL M -A 2021 ARTS FULLERTON OBSERVER Page 15

“Self-Portrait En La Cherry (with Strawberry Fields Forever in the Background)” by Narsiso Martinez. “JUST FOOD” @ FULLERTON COLLEGE ART GALLERY 321 E. Chapman Ave (1000 Bldg) To view the virtual exhibit visit fcjustfood.myportfolio.com

THE COURIER: TWO HITS by Maia Gelvin tions of workers on discarded produce boxes. Each scene is painted or drawn in Set in England and Russia during the Penkovsky, also married and with a “JUST FOOD” bears the message of a way that only experience could pro- most dramatic and crucial months of the young daughter, wants to do all he can to the need for a just food system that duce; each worker’s face tells a story. Cold War, “The Courier” takes place in avert a nuclear disaster in which there ensures honoring of the Earth and cul- Nikki McClure is also featured in this the two years between 1960 and 1962. would be no winners. He is the C.I.A.’s tural roots tied to food dishes. The artists exhibition, showing work pertaining to a The C.I.A. and the British Intelligence contact and he will be passing the docu- focus on how and where food is cultivat- simple life of joy and family. Her art car- Agency cooperated in espionage and ments to Wynne. ed and what it means to their individual ries an air of peace as the figures depict- surveillance in order to counter Russia’s Using all of the familiar tropes of spy identities. ed are often candidly living life or tend- bellicose posturing, made evident when thrillers, “The Courier” has scenes in Jackie Amezquita shares her story as ing to food preparation. Her pieces are Nikita Khrushchev ordered missile which identity is established by use of a an immigrant and artist who struggled to uniquely whimsical as she cuts away at launching sites to be placed in Cuba fac- particular tie clasp; two men talk in a make ends meet through her clay slab one piece of paper to tell her stories. ing the U.S. just 90 miles away. The hotel room with a radio turned on so that pieces of traditional foods, each plate Syan Rose tells a different story. As a events leading up to this dramatic devel- surveillance bugging devices cannot carrying the significance of her old life. queer comic artist, her works bring to opment make for exciting cinema espe- detect them; documents filmed by a Real food is displayed on these slabs, light the struggles of minority groups to cially when we know that they are based Minox camera hidden in a desk drawer; allowing them to rot and dry out as time get proper nutrition and criticizes the on a true story. chalk marks used on outdoor equipment. passes. food industry’s selfishness and its con- Directing this good old-fashioned spy Cooke’s trips to Moscow become pro- Similarly, artist Sula Bermúdez- tribution to poor nutrition in lower thriller, Dominic Cooke uses the talents tracted as more and more evidence of Silverman ties her Afro-Puerto Rican income areas. The work speaks for of two superb actors. Benedict Russia’s nuclear capabilities appear in ancestors into her work using sheets of itself, literally—walls of text describe Cumberbatch, always reliable in a vari- documents that Oleg passes on to sugar to build doll houses, which sym- the tribulations of the LGBTQ+ and ety of roles, plays Greville Wynne, a Wynne. bolize the sugar plantations they once minority communities while vibrant British engineer turned salesman, who The two men grow to trust and even worked on. The power imbalance is depictions of food and figures fill the makes trips to Eastern Europe selling like each other. One scene is particularly striking when visualized like this. The piece. electronic equipment. Wynne is married engaging when Oleg, in an effort to sheets of sugar offer a translucent barrier Chip Thomas offers a different with a young son, sports a well-tended show Wynne the cultural heritage of between the inner workings of the approach to sharing the message of bet- mustache, and knows how to please his Russia, takes him to a performance of miniature houses. Each house contains a ter nutrition access for Navajo Nation customers, providing them pleasant “Swan Lake” in Moscow’s most presti- different light source, illuminating it peoples as well as the appreciation of his lunches and allowing them to win in gious theater. Also attending, in his own from the inside out and giving the audi- complex culture through wheat paste competitive golf games. box, is Nikita Khrushchev, on whom all ence a look inside the hollow structures. murals on abandoned buildings. His One day he is taken to lunch by an eyes are cast as he is seated. The two Hard work is a reoccurring theme in Painted Desert Project based in Arizona acquaintance who is accompanied by an men share their dreams of a future with- this exhibition. Narsiso Martinez pro- aims to cover buildings with imagery of American “consultant,” Emily Donovan out the constant threat of nuclear disas- vides another perspective of hard labor, Navajo life and culture, and often (Rachel Brosnahan). She turns out to be ter. Wynne smiles in surprise when Oleg as he works seasonally as a migrant farm depicts people working with the land. a C.I.A. agent enlisting the help of the tells him he hopes that someday he can worker at an apple orchard. Martinez Through these pieces, the artists come Brits to ferry extremely sensitive docu- defect to the United States and live documents the back-breaking labor it together for a common goal and weave a ments from a complicit Russian inform- under the open skies of Montana. takes to cultivate food for a nation pattern of culture, family, and persever- ant in Moscow. Because Wynne has To round out the characters of both through his strikingly realistic depic- ance. traveled to eastern Europe on many sales men we are given scenes of their domes- trips, he will not arouse suspicion when tic lives, especially Wynne’s, whose he applies for a visa to enter Russia. At wife Sheila (Jessie Buckley), becomes first Wynne laughs at the suggestion that suspicious over a possible infidelity he would be doing the work of a spy, but when her husband’s trips to Moscow Donavan is convincing and assures him grow even more frequent. She reminds of his safety and of the importance of the him that she has forgiven a past infideli- information he will carry back to the ty but assures him that she will not toler- West. ate another one. The other superb actor in this spy Before this movie is over, we relive thriller is Oleg Penkovsky (Merab the collective relief experienced in the Ninidze), a former Colonel in the Soviet U.S. and abroad when Krushchev Army and now a top researcher in the backed down and removed the missiles USSR’s military intelligence agency. he installed in Cuba. It is time to tell the Appalled at the rapidity of the nuclear true and compelling story of two men research conducted in Russia and who helped make this outcome possible. alarmed at Khrushchev’s weapons build- Movie theaters are reopening, and this up and threats of nuclear war, movie was seen at the Fullerton AMC.

TWO HITS: Don’t Miss it! A HIT & A MISS: You Might Like it. TWO MISSES: Don’t Bother. Page 16 FULLERTON OBSERVER COMMUNITY VOICES MID-APRIL 2021

Fullerton With immigration, we have different Out of My Mind populations with different statuses, both bserver de jure and de facto. There are undocu- O by Jon Dobrer © 2021 mented workers picking crops, working in slaughter houses, cleaning homes, The Fullerton Observer Community Newspaper, founded by Ralph and and minding children. Many conserva- Natalie Kennedy, Roy and Irene tives want cheap labor for farms and Kobayashi, and other friends in 1978, is POLITICAL PARALYSIS: factories. Many liberals also want cheap staffed mainly by local volunteers who WHY WE CAN’T DO BIG THINGS labor for their homes. Neither right nor create, publish, and distribute the paper left truly wants to fix immigration. It’s throughout our community. Why can’t we do big things? Is it only need housing and counseling. better as a wedge issue for political This venture is a not-for-profit one- advantage than as a problem to solve. revenues are plowed back into maintain- because of our poisonous partisan We also have some homeless who are ing and improving our independent, non- divide? No. We fail because they are too angry and violent. Others are sweet but We do have a crisis at our border. We partisan, non-sectarian community news- big, and we get overwhelmed. diminished. Some need a hand and oth- need to stop the trafficking of human paper. Our purpose is to inform Fullerton Let’s look at three large issues that our ers require deep and persistent interven- beings and cut organized crime out. We residents about the institutions and other politicians have failed to fix, or even tions. Because they are diverse, they need to honor our own asylum laws or societal forces which most impact their change them. We can’t lead by breaking lives, so that they may be empowered to meaningfully engage: homelessness need different responses. However, they guns, and immigration. There other all share one thing: They are human our own laws. Most seeking asylum will participate in constructive ways to keep be turned down and sent back where and make these private and public entities equally vital and paralyzing issues: the beings and not simply a dehumanized serve all residents in lawful, open, just, environment and civil rights, to name category called “The Homeless.” they came from. and socially-responsible ways. Through two. As many mental health challenges We have different overlapping our extensive coverage, we seek to pro- Why can’t we do anything about present themselves in homelessness, just Hispanic immigrant populations. There mote a sense of community and an appre- homelessness? In Los Angeles, I mean as many are present with gun deaths. are people fleeing for their lives who are ciation for the values of diversity with legitimate candidates for asylum. There which our country is so uniquely blessed. ANYTHING! We’re stuck and the prob- After a mass killing, we all line up on lem is growing. Every one we take off our partisan sides and repeat our well- are economic refugees—a more difficult ______category. There are people with criminal the streets is soon replaced. The majori- rehearsed positions. We argue automati- 10,000 issues of the Fullerton Observer ty of those given temporary housing are cally (or semi-automatically) that we records and gang affiliations. Stop them. are distributed throughout Fullerton back on the streets within 90 days. We need to take military-style rifles off the There are also unaccompanied minors, and sent through the mail to subscribers design programs that put people in market, while the other side repeats a some with family already here. We must every two weeks except only once hotels and motels without regard to mantra of “It’s not the guns; it’s mental treat them not simply properly but gen- in January, July & August. erously. As with so much in our world, where they have been living and what health.” social connections or support (jobs, These aren’t mutually exclusive. it’s complicated. HOW TO SUBSCRIBE America’s hostility towards Hispanics Subscriptions are $35 per year. family, therapy) they might have had. These problems are not amenable to Sign up and pay with Credit Card at We offer housing that requires being simple solutions. Every time a simple is self-defeating. Demographics will www.fullertonobserver.com drug free, which may then separate fam- step is proposed, the response is, “But determine our future. If we don’t want or by check with name & address to: ilies. We confiscate their belongings. We that wouldn’t have helped in this partic- separatist sentiments, there is something Fullerton Observer, PO Box 7051, look at the impossibility of designing ular situation.” Often true, but gun safe- we can do: Open our hearts up to wel- Fullerton CA 92834-7051 come people to our ever-changing land. one-size fits all and give up. ty isn’t just one thing. Homelessness is not one problem with The dramatic mass killings by AK 47s This doesn’t mean open borders. We ______can’t take all of suffering humanity, but one solution. Every plan is absolutely and AR 15s are a very small percentage HOW TO ADVERTISE not right for whole segments of the of gun deaths. They garner attention, all who are deeply motivated enough to Call 714-525-6402, or email homeless. We get hypnotized by what and we need people to work on ridding walk thousands of miles and risk their [email protected] we can’t do, instead of understanding our streets of military style weapons. lives crossing inhospitable deserts, or visit us online at that we have some distinct populations They aren’t more dangerous than any deserve to be treated properly according www.fullertonobserver.com to our laws and with dignity, according ______that need different programs. other type of semi-automatic rifles. We have economically unhoused peo- They are, however, designed to simulate to our values. With these three great issues, we get SUBMISSIONS: ple. They can’t find work and don’t have military rifles and stimulate violent

money for rent, security deposits or util- macho fantasies. Banning them caught up in trying to find easy rubrics Submissions on any topic of interest to cover all cases. Instead of breaking are accepted from Fullerton residents. ities. They need one level of support: wouldn’t make all the difference, but it money, clothing and often childcare. could save 2,000 Americans a year. our challenges down to a manageable We strive to get something about size, we pile them up and make real everything in but shorter pieces do have Note that around 20,000 L.A. Unified Most gun deaths come from, well, a better chance of getting in. students are without housing! This is a guns, not rifles. The vast majority of change impossible. We need to break Email: [email protected] different but soluble challenge from the these are suicides. Clearly, mental health great challenges into doable tasks. ______chronically homeless. is a major issue. Yet for all the posturing Whether immigration, guns, homeless-

With our chronically homeless, we that it’s not a gun problem but a mental ness, climate change, or civil rights, we • STAFF• each should pick a part that uses our • EDITOR: Jesse La Tour often find mental health or drug prob- health issue, many passionately resist lems. If they didn’t have these issues mental health screening and background gifts and passions to change, to fix, and •CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER: Mehul Desai to heal both our society and ourselves. •ADVERTISING: Saskia Kennedy before living on the streets, many will checks. Still, a focus on gun “safety,” •REPORTERS: Matthew Leslie, eventually self-medicate their fears and not “control,” shrinks the task to an Jane Reifer, Judith Kaluzny, anxieties. They need housing (not ware- addressable size. Lance Langdon, Grace Widyatmadja housing) that takes them “as is.” Drug Immigration is another issue that • COPY EDITOR: Terry Hendricks free housing is a wonderful thought but stymies us because of its scope. When • SPANISH COPY EDITORS: Guillermo and Melissa Trabado an impossible commitment for many to we talk about our broken system, we Mills Act Program • PROOF READER: Christine Romer keep. Help them with housing first. really are speaking in code about • DATABASE MANAGER: Mehul Desai We have runaway, homeless youths Hispanic immigration. We don’t mean I was delighted to hear, in Terry • DISTRIBUTION: Irene Kobayashi, who came to Hollywood and didn’t illegal immigrants from Canada, Galvin's article "Fullerton Historic Marjorie Kerr, Leslie Allen make it. Some got into drugs and prosti- Norway or any other place that is mostly Districts Recognized," that the city of •ROVING REPORTER: Jere Greene tution; some just fell into despair. They pale. Fullerton had, last April, FINALLY • COUNCIL REPORT: Jesse La Tour • DOWNTOWN REPORT: Mike Ritto voted to adopt the Mills Act. Fullerton • SCHOOL BOARD REPORTS: may well be the last municipality in Jan Youngman & Vivien Moreno Orange County to take advantage of this •YOUTH EDITOR: Francine Vudoti Act. In the 21 years I've lived here, I've •POLITICAL COMMENTARY: HOW TO VOICE YOUR OPINION lost track of the number of requests by Jonathan Dobrer, Vince Buck my fellow Fullerton homeowners to be ROSSWORD The Community Opinion pages provide a free forum for the commu- •C : Valerie Brickey granted tax relief by this generous pro- •PHOTOGRAPHERS: nity. The Observer welcomes letters on any subject of interest. Opinions gram, which the state of California Emerson Little, Mike Ritto, are those of the writer. We must verify your identity, but we allow ini- passed almost a half century ago, in Grace Widyatmadja, Jere Greene tials only and town to be printed if desired, or anonymous in print if a 1972! •SCIENCE: Sarah Mosko reasonable case can be made as to why that is necessary. Opinions sent •GARDENING: Penny Hlavac In a town with many Craftsman • MOVIE REVIEW: Joyce Mason to us without name, address and phone number will not be printed. Due homes, Fullerton has been in dire need • THEATRE REVIEWS: Angela Hatcher to space issues shorter letters have a better chance of getting in. Please of Mills Act assistance for maintenance •VIDEO OBSERVER: Emerson Little add your contact information so we can verify. Thanks! upgrades to improve the condition of these historic structures. I trust the City Created & Published in Fullerton will swiftly increase the number of by locals since 1978 [email protected] Published by Fullerton Observer LLC or mail to: properties granted Mills Act assistance, Fullerton Observer, and I thank Fullerton Heritage for their The Early May 2021 issue will PO Box 7051, steadfast effort to provide this much- needed resource to our community. hit the stands on May 3. Fullerton CA 92834 SUBMISSION & AD DEADLINE: April 26. Randy Baxter Fullerton MID-APRIL 2021 COMMUNITY VOICES FULLERTON OBSERVER Page 17

Homeless Living in Vehicles Re: On Young Kim’s Voting Record

Regarding Father Kriz’s article con- able. I’m not suggesting an RV Park (a I read your article in the early mention her support of HR- 1882, cerning the “RV Problem” and where much better solution), but a place for March edition on Rep. Young Kim the Violence Against Women Act can people living in their vehicles go in filling buckets with water and dumping (R-39), “On Young Kim’s Recent introduced by Rep. Gonzales (D). the Early April issue, there is a City- human waste from portable containers. Voting Record.” I was hoping to see Rep. Young Kim is working hard owned property that was written about Of course the types of improvements are a balanced recap of our new and working across party lines, recently in the Observer. It is adjacent to endless with swings and slides for the Congresswoman’s votes. I was dis- which is a refreshing change from Bastanchury and abuts Sunny Hills High kids and for the adults, BBQs and picnic appointed but not surprised to see our previous Congressman. School at a much lower level. This prop- tables. There is a huge beautiful tree that the article listed only her “NO” I can’t help point out that next to erty is separated from the boulevard by a is a special prize. A dumpster would be votes on “key bills,” which by your your incomplete article on Rep. riparian area with a small creek and required as would portable toilets for article means only those favored by Kim’s voting record, you had anoth- trees. It is many acres of flat land with those without these facilities. Democrats. You didn’t mention that er article entitled “How Important many types of public works showing. she introduced HR 1799, The PPP Are Local Community With water and sewer there, some small Denny Bean Extension Act, which got bi-partisan Newspapers?” I find this ironic. If development could make them avail- Fullerton support, has passed both the House our community newspapers cannot and Senate and was signed by the be trusted to accurately and in an President. You didn’t mention her unbiased way reflect the news, they co-sponsorship of HR 588 probably aren’t very important at Paying City Sanitation Fees While “Stopping the Mental Health all. We might as well watch only Pandemic Act,” a bill introduced by CNN or Fox. You might give that Receiving No Services From City Rep. Katie Porter (D). You didn’t some thought. mention that she introduced the Hoping to see more fair and bal- I’m reaching out to share about an drain cleaning, street sweeping, repairs “Getting Americans Safely Back to anced reporting in the future. ongoing experience with the City. This on these systems, underpass, drainage Work Act” with Rep. Spanberger issue impacts any Fullerton resident system and channel maintenance, con- (D), which creates a federal grant Gretchen Cox who resides within a Homeowners crete curb and gutter repairs, tree trim- program to provide PPE, rapid test- Fullerton Association (HOA). ming, sidewalk cleaning, necessary ing equipment, and other supplies to The City charges a “Sanitation Fee” equipment, and other related charges. essential employers for distribution Editor’s Note: It’s a point well- that is supposed to cover a variety of The cost of these facilities and services to their employees, including public taken. See our interview with Young services for residents including tree should, to the extent possible, be workers. You didn’t mention her Kim on page 11 of this issue, in trimming, street sweeping, curb and gut- charged to the user or to person or prop- “Yes” vote on HR 1652, Crime which she discusses some of these ter maintenance, storm drain mainte- erty benefited. Sanitation charges are Victim’s Funding Act, introduced by bills and her legislative priorities. nance, etc. This fee is calculated as 20% hereby established to accomplish this Rep. Nadler (D), and you didn’t of a property’s water bill. Residents who purpose.” (Ord. 2817 § 1, 1992: Ord. reside in an HOA do not receive any of 2227 § 1, 1978: Ord. 2116 § 1 (part), these services covered by the Sanitation 1976). Fee, yet we are still required to pay this Based on this municipal code, it fee. For my small HOA of 27 homes, we appears that the City has been misinter- Street Sweeping Signs in the Rolling Hills pay around $12,000 annually, yet we preting and misapplying the Sanitation receive zero services for this money. Fee. Since they do not provide any serv- Neighborhood and Parking Enforcement In an effort to get some services from ices funded by the Sanitation Fee to the City for the money we are paying, I HOAs, the HOAs should not be getting The city of Fullerton began a new cially those areas that never had posted reached out to Public Works to see if I charged. In the past the City tried to say parking enforcement plan for the entire no parking for street sweeping signs could get 13 trees added to their tree that the residents benefit from mainte- City last October, 2020 when folks had anywhere near their residences. From trimming cycle. These trees are on HOA nance anywhere in the City. For exam- other things on their minds, namely a October until March, there was lots of property, but line Lakeview Drive and ple, even though I live around Laguna major pandemic. The plan was to time for the City to inform all residents are identical to all other City street trees Lake, it benefits me to have clean gut- enforce the overnight parking between of upcoming changes to all neighbor- in the neighborhood, which means the ters around Cal State Fullerton. 2-5am and a new no-parking on street hoods. City had input when they were original- However, this is not how the Municipal sweeping days, but it was postponed There have to be other neighbor- ly planted. I was told that the City is Code reads. We also already pay proper- until March 22, 2021. hoods in Fullerton where the new sig- unable to add any trees to their tree trim- ty taxes and other taxes/fees to cover Recently I learned from the Fullerton nage went up without folks really ming schedule for various reasons, such that type of maintenance throughout the Police Dept that people were receiving noticing what they really said. These as liability in assuming responsibilities City. notifications on varieties of social same neighborhoods may have been for mature trees as well as the trees I have been in consistent communica- media such as nextdoor.com, the City surprised when the process began on being on private property. Since the City tion regarding this issue with the City website, and electronic signs that were the week of April 5. is on a 5-year cycle for tree trimming, I Manager since February 1, 2021. He has placed on major streets. These notices The City has contracted with a com- had hoped that we could come to a com- been unresponsive to the point that I stated that effective March 22, folks pany, SP+ Corporation, to help with promise for these to be addressed by the raised this to the City Council’s atten- would get warning citations about the the enforcement since FPD parking City; if we (the HOA) pay $12K/year, tion. I was told I’d have resolution in 2- new ordinance on street sweeping days enforcement is not able to handle this we would essentially be paying $60K to 3 weeks, which was 3 weeks ago. As for two weeks. As of April 5, the cita- huge undertaking. They may be fol- have 13 trees trimmed once every 5 soon as I brought the municipal code tions would begin. Did everyone see lowing the street sweeping company, years. While that is an exorbitant into the mix, the City Manager’s tone in these notices around town? Probably Clean Streets, which is also a contract- amount to pay for tree trimming, it is emails changed and, frankly, I think the not. ed company that took over from the better than nothing. City is worried about the ramifications As a 47-year resident on Rolling City maintenance dept. street sweeping However, as I continued to dig, I this may have for them and their budget. Hills Drive, I noticed that the new sig- jobs. uncovered that the Sanitation Fee origi- If approximately 1/3 of homes are in nage installed in our neighborhood Since this ordinance began last nated from a Municipal Code: HOAs, that means they are providing went up. They were sparsely placed. week, the parking enforcement vehicle 12.14.010 Purpose: these services to only 2/3 of the City, One sign at Brea Blvd and the other at has not been seen early in the morning “The City provides facilities and while receiving funds from the entire State College. One mile apart does not following the street sweeper when it is maintenance in connection with its san- City. Essentially, all HOA residents are work as proper notification for more trying to sweep Rolling Hills Drive itation program. The facilities being subsidizing the services provided to the than 70+ residents on Rolling Hills before our elementary school parents provided are those sewer line and storm remainder of the City. Drive. The signs read: THIS STREET descend upon our local school. drains, which are shown as deficient in If there was any legal justification for - THIS TRACT. That covers lots of ter- This week our Rolling Hills neigh- the City’s general plan. The mainte- charging HOA residents the Sanitation ritory in some parts of the City. Streets borhood got another sign about 10’ nance activity accomplished by this pro- Fee while not providing them services, above and below Rolling Hills Drive from another one on the light post at gram includes sewer cleaning, storm then it should have been easy to provide. got one sign for multiple blocks in var- State College with flags on it this time. In fact, it was very difficult to find the ious directions. Guess those flags were cheaper than municipal code language associated Where do you and others park when installing more “expensive” signs with the Sanitation Fee, which makes the whole TRACT is included in the down the entire mile stretch from Brea me think that they don’t want residents signage? Visitors, repair persons, gar- to State College Blvds. Would you like to carry to find it. We are at a point where it deners, nurses to licensed board and The most expensive part of this ordi- the Fullerton Observer seems that the City Manager is stalling care homes sprinkled throughout our nance is the $42 ticket on street sweep- and hoping I will go away and that this Newspaper in your place neighborhoods in private homes will ing days and the $39 ticket for won’t unleash a can of worms for them. of business? not see signs on so many streets. You overnight parking. Since the City already has budgetary don’t get to alternate sides of the street Hope this issue gets addressed by the issues, potentially losing a significant Let us know by e-mailing every other week like some cities do. city of Fullerton before too many cita- amount of money from this fee could be [email protected] So much for notifying all residents in tions get issued. pretty impactful to them. or calling 714-525-6402. their water bills about the changes in

parking in front of their homes or busi- Carol Thackery Alyssa Lawrence nesses on street sweeping days, espe- Fullerton Fullerton Page 18 FULLERTON OBSERVER TRIBUTES MID-APRIL 2021 Funeral for Two Victims of Mass Shooting Held in Fullerton

Continued from page 3

A funeral for two of the victims of the recent mass shooting in Orange was held on Saturday, April 17 at St. Philip Benizi Church in Fullerton. Luis Tovar (50) and his daughter Jenevieve Raygoza (28) were both parishioners at St. Philip’s. Raygoza leaves behind a husband, Armando, and two young sons ages 4 and 8. Jenevieve and Armando were married at St. Philip’s and their family was very involved in the church. The funeral was well-attended by family, friends, and fellow church members—attesting to the impor- A funeral for two victims of a recent mass shooting was held at St. Philip Benizi Church in Fullerton. tance of both Tovar and Raygoza to this community. According to Marivel Alvarado, “The last time I saw her, we were doing the stations of the cross before Easter. Because we couldn’t do the usual program, we scheduled appointments with the family, and Left: they would dress up and re-enact Shooting victim the stations of the cross in a photo- Luis Tovar. graph.” For their family’s scene, Jenevieve played Veronica, a woman who according to Catholic Right: Shooting tradition, wiped Jesus’ brow on his victim Jenevieve way to crucifixion. Raygoza “That’s the last image I have of with her two sons. her,” Alvarado said. Luis Tovar, her father, leaves behind five children and six grandchildren.

James “Jim” Luther Arnold

James “Jim” Luther Arnold, 72, a longtime resident of Fullerton, died Wednesday, December 9, 2020, after battling cancer. He was born on January 5, 1948 in Long Beach, CA, son of Miles L. Arnold and Norma (Johnson) Arnold. Jim is survived by his daughter Richelle, son-in-law Larry, his grandchildren Shaun and Isabella, and his sis- ter Susan. He graduated from Army Navy Academy in 1966 followed by enlisting in the Army. He served in Vietnam from 1968-1971 and he became a Field Artillery Unit Commander and flew as a Forward Observer in 101st Airborne up over a drink at Mulberry Street, Division. singing with his friend’s bands, karaoke, Following his military time, he or going for a ride on his Harley. worked in the family restaurants, He also loved his grandchildren and Arnold’s Farmhouse and The Buttery. would attend as many of their He was a great chef and enjoyed the school/sporting events as possible, usu- restaurant business. Later in life he ally the loudest cheerer on the sidelines. opened his own, Arnold’s Lil Farmhouse Memorial Services will be held on in Temecula. April 23, 2021 at McAulay and Wallace He loved spending time with his fam- in Fullerton. ily and friends whether it was catching

COVID-19 Deaths as of April 17

Global: 3,025,441 United States: 580,756 California: 60,988 Orange County: 4,891 Fullerton: 295 NEWS MID-APRIL 2021 FULLERTON OBSERVER Page 19

ANSWER KEY TO PUZZLE “RECYCLE THIS!” on page 7:

Short term rentals in Fullerton, August 2020. Planning Commission Rejects Ban on Whole PUZZLE MASTER House Short Term Rentals Valerie Brickey Continued from page 3 was born in newspaper, in 2018, but that STRs did Fullerton and Several members of the public called not turn out to affect housing. He also returned to raise in to the virtual meeting to comment, objected to a union becoming a “de her family here. including Fullerton resident Susan facto” member of a city committee or She has been Petrella, who described the current situ- commission and didn’t think the hotels contributing ation “morally reprehensible,” citing the around Disneyland would be affected by puzzles since 2014. effect of STRs to displace much needed STRs. residential housing, as well as bring Commissioner Wayne Carvalho said more noise and traffic to stable neigh- he could see both sides of the issue and borhoods. She said she didn’t think it inquired about the CEQA challenge. was the job of the city to provide this Director Foulkes said that the City had benefit for a relatively few property cited a “common sense” exemption from owners. CEQA because they didn’t Hotel worker Irena think STRs would have the Estrada asked that the requisite impact that

Commission help them to requires a CEQA considera- keep their jobs. “This will The proposed tion. The City Council really hit us, as far as the amendment is could have directed the staff hotel industry,” she said. scheduled to go to conduct an “initial study” Another hotel worker before the City of the impact STRs could thanked the City for not Council as a have, but instead recom- allowing housing to public hearing mended the municipal code become hotel rooms. A amendment to settle the caller from LAANES during its regular threatened lawsuit. Chair (Los Angeles Alliance for April 20 meeting. Elizabeth Hansburg noted a New Economy) sup- that CEQA challenges are a Now Hiring Business Development Officer ported the proposed common mechanism for amendment, saying it had objecting to city land-use • AA in Marketing, Finance, or related field & 36 months in position, marketing worked in other L.A. and decisions. manager, or rel. field. Orange County cities. Commissioner Jose • Identify sales leads & maintain new contacts. Follow up on biz opportunities. Commissioner Chris Thompson led Trinidad Castañeda III said he recalled • Communicate new product to client. Work closely w/ sales team. off the discussion saying that he was an e-comment from a local Homeowners • Prepare, follow up, & negotiate terms w/ clients. “Adamantly opposed to the recommen- Association complaining of quality of • Collect info from financial data & ratio analysis. dation.” He said it was “unbelievable” to life issues caused by STRs. Foulkes • Focus biz plans & market strategies. him that a union could cause the City to responded that property owners in • Prepare month sales reports, complete action plans, report to mngr. change “common sense” rules, and that HOAs are required to have proposed • Monitor & analyze sales & marketing activity goals. the City’s STRs could operate with a STRs approved by the HOA. A map Contact True Design Inc., Attn: H. Abinaked finite number of licenses. He cited the included in the staff presentation 9427 Norwalk Blvd., Santa Fe Springs, CA, 90670 City’s financial crisis, suggesting that revealed that most STRs are concentrat- STRs could provide up to 3 times the ed in the southern half of the City where amount of funds for the City that a long- housing stock is older, mostly pre-dating term rental would generate. Thompson HOAs. Castañeda argued that HOA argued that residents were entitled to the resistance to STRs in District 1 had the highest and best use of their properties effect of keeping housing prices higher and suggested that families on the edge by concentrating STRs in District 4. For the latest COVID-19 of financial stability shouldn’t be denied The Commission eventually voted to information, visit the opportunity to realize income from not approve the amendment, with only www.ochealthinfo.com whole house rentals. Commissioner Castaneda dissenting. Fellow Commissioner Douglas Cox The proposed amendment is scheduled or call said he stood firmly with Thompson, to go before the City Council as a public (714) 834-2000 saying that similar concerns had been hearing during its regular April 20 meet- published in The Daily Breeze, a SoCal ing.

Have You Seen Danny?

My pet bird named Danny flew away recently and I can't find him. He was raised by hand and doesn't know how to live outside. He can barely fly and is out there somewhere. Please if you find him contact (714) 499-8093 and thank you so much and God bless you. Page 20 FULLERTON OBSERVER NONPROFITS MID-APRIL 2021

Fullerton City Councilmember Fred Jung and Congresswoman Young Kim where among officials joining members of Grace Community Services and ReIgnite Hope at the dedication of the new mobile welding school. PHOTO BY NATHAN CHO Mobile Welding School Coming to Fullerton by Saskia Kennedy don't have to be Christian to participate.) Students may apply starting June 1 and Starting this fall, Grace Community continuing through July 16 by going to Services, in partnership with ReIgnite www.reignitehope.com/apply-now. Hope (based in Gardena), will be bring- The new mobile welding classroom ing its Mobile Welding School to town, was dedicated in a ceremony at Grace training men and women who have been Korean Church on Easter Sunday. homeless, ex-gang members, or ex- Local officials, including U.S. offenders, in the skills of welding. Representative Young Kim and The students earn American Welding Fullerton City Councilmember Fred Society Certification by completing the Jung, were among about 90 people in 16-week program and passing a test. attendance. The organization also helps with post- Pastor Ki Hong Han of Grace graduation job placement. Ministries International gave the bene- The program is free to anyone 18 diction. Pastor Steven Bunyard of years or older who can show they are in ReIgnite Hope expressed appreciation financial need. There is limited avail- for all those who helped make this ability for the course. (The course mobile welding school possible through Members of the public view the mobile welding unit. PHOTO BY NATHAN CHO includes bible study though participants donations and hours of support.

TAKE THE FULLERTON HOUSING SURVEY Donate Life Certified Farmers Virtual Event Market The Housing Game Plan is a comprehensive multi-faceted plan to address Fullerton's housing needs. Get involved by sharing your housing priorities, take the In addition to the Downtown survey today (English/Spanish). To learn more, visit cityoffullerton.com/hous- April is “Donate Life” Fullerton Market, which resumed inggameplan. month. The annual Donate Life April 8, the weekly year round run/walk usually happens the Fullerton Certified Farmer's last Saturday in April at CSUF. Market takes place in the Fullerton This year, the event will be held Library parking lot from 7am to virtually. The event raises 1pm every Wednesday. It not only money and encourages people sells great fresh from the farm pro- to register as organ and tissue duce and eggs, but there are also donors. several food vendors. To learn more visit: The Library is located at 353 W www.donatelife.net. Commonwealth Ave.