Downey Rotary ensures Christmas for 75 Downey third-graders

I shared a table with Imperial School, six boys and girls and their principal Peggy Meehan. Isaac, who is 8, sat right next to me, his eyes big with excitement.

How many brothers and sisters does Isaac have? He counted on his fingers as he named then, then spread his hand and said “five.” Then he began again, with more names, and pretty soon we had two hands full.

“I’ve been good and prayed a lot,” said Isaac. He rolled his eyes at the idea that Santa might be coming, but just the same he was hoping.

Annabelle sat on his other side and she seemed preoccupied, toying with her knife and fork and spoon. She was wearing a white tee shirt with “Life Is Beautiful” spelled out in sequins and flowers. Isaac was dressed in a red Spiderman tee shirt. “Your favorite action hero?” I asked and he nodded vigorously.

It was my good fortune to be seated at the Rotary Christmas Children’s Luncheon next to an articulate little boy, but with the din and my poor hearing I couldn’t understand much that he said. It didn’t matter. Isaac loved to talk and didn’t need any prompting from me.

Photo courtesy Downey Unified School District.

“Do you like to read?” I asked him, and he nodded enthusiastically yes. “Good readers are good talkers,” I said “because they know lots of words.”

The children were served a lunch of chicken nuggets and mac’n cheese, and Isaac cleaned up every bite and then began on his box of tropical punch. Most of the others really had no appetite, excited and waiting for Santa.

President of Downey Rotary Greg Welch called the room to order and offered a prayer of thanks for the children visiting us, “their bright faces, loving hearts and eager minds.” Then we said the Pledge of Allegiance, at half our normal speed, because the children enunciate every syllable carefully to understood every word. Except for “indivisible,” that is, which lost a little clarity. That concept is not that easy to get, and the schools will be teaching that one through all the grades. Maybe for President’s Day they’ll let Abe Lincoln do the explaining about the Civil War.

Then for the songs – we all sang “Jingle Bells,” with car keys and water glasses for chimes. I had to tap on Shirley Johnson’s glass, because she had emptied hers and it made a much better ring than mine which was nearly full. Some of us grown-ups were excited too.

Will Medina announced he will be helping distribute some of the Spin Master Toys on Thursday in Santa Fe Springs through the department of Children and Family Services, Darren Dunaway’s organization, and invited volunteers to join him. What a labor of love and showing of the Rotary Spirit.

Each child had been given a yellow ticket for the raffle, and the winner of the first number was one of the young women principals, in a black sweater with Frosty the Snowman and a snowflake center front. Each of Downey’s 13 elementary schools was invited to send six third graders, the principal and teachers, and they all enthusiastically complied.

Next call brought a little boy who literally ran through the room to the podium. Big applause for him. Last number belonged to Jaimee Sul Baker, cheery in a red sweater and bright red patent leather shoes to match. We have Jaimee to thank for the superior quality toys, but she didn’t win more than a token either.

Photo courtesy Downey Unified School District.

Dr. John Garcia, superintendent of the Downey Unified School District, took over the emcee duties and introduced the teachers and principals who had brought our little guests, and many of the staff from the DUSD office.

Then Dr. John called for “Jingle Bells” again. Where were Debbie and Dan Fox, our songmasters, to lead us in “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” which we had rehearsed so often? John urged us to sing out, so our “special” guest would know he was invited, but there was a little confusion till John gave the mike to Chad Berlingheiri, whose soaring solo tenor, singing “I’ll be Home For Christmas,” quieted the room.

The song, which I remember when it appeared in 1943, is sung from the point of view of a soldier stationed overseas writing his family a letter home. As Chad got to the chorus and hit the high notes, all attention was on him. And then, just as Chad got to the melancholy final phrase, with the soldier saying, "I'll be home for Christmas, if only in my dreams," the sound of bells and “Ho Ho Ho” told us our surprise guest had appeared, and he was no other than Santa Claus.

The jolly old elf had a wonderful real white beard and moustache so that children could see he must be the real deal. But let’s hope that by next Christmas, 2019, our own Wayne Wilcox will be back from his two-year stint in Argentina, again playing the role he loves to do.

Dr. John called the first school “The Mustangs of Rio San Gabriel,” and Rich Strayer in his red elf hat came to help Santa distribute toys. After the Mustangs came The Bulldogs of Imperial Elementary School, our table. When Isaac went up, I saw he had on long shorts, with red trim, but he on his chair was also a black hoodie to keep him warm.

First each child went to Santa and spoke with him, and Santa took time to listen to each of the 75 or so children. Dan Fox was stationed right in front of Santa and took a souvenir picture of each.

The girls got a wonderful Spin Master Little Charmer doll, either Lavender, Hazel or Posy, each with long acrylic hair and a sturdy little brush to groom her with. When I told Annabelle that my little girl had once had a Mary Poppins doll with a pony tail and a hairbrush, and an umbrella with a parrot’s head, her eyes brightened.

Photo courtesy Downey Unified School District.

Boys got a Spin Master Hot Wheels Monster Mutt race car, the kind that goes faster than the speed of sound and they were painted with flames.

Then each came to Shirley sitting in a big comfortable chair for a kind word and a KitKat from the voluminous sack she brought. Shirley has frequently sponsored charity events for abused kids. Each child also received a jumbo size sturdy zip-lock bag, filled with another toy, more candy and a stained-glass kit, then went back to their seats.

The stained-glass kits were appreciated by the teachers. “That fits with our STEAM program,” Principal Peggy Meehan said. STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Math. “The YMCA is wonderful about bringing us craft supplies. This week the children are making ornaments to take home, like fingerprint balls for the tree. We appreciate the outside help.”

The children waited till their teachers told them they could take off the Christmas wrap, which our members applied so carefully last week.

Then the Panthers of Maude Price were called, and so it went for all 13 schools. The teachers expected the main toy’s sturdy plastic packaging would last intact till they got home, but as soon as one child opened theirs, everyone did, and they loved playing with them. Boys were zooming their Hot Wheels at their place at the table, and little girls could be seen talking to their dollies and re-arranging their hair.

At our table Amy came over to show me the package of charms she had gotten, but Annabelle, who hadn’t opened hers, was still pensive, arranging the knives and forks. Some children take the unopened toys home to share with brothers and sisters who will get nothing at Christmas.

“We have 13 wonderful elementary schools in Downey” said Assistant Superintendent Roger Brossmer, who sat with Jim Mogen at a table full of children. “They are so well behaved,” I said and Roger nodded. “They’re carefully chosen, for their needs,” said Jim.

Boys and girls were dressed in colorful action figure tee shirts and girls wore sparkly sequin tees. One had a matching red and black checked top and bottom. No one wore a party dress two sizes too big, or had a suit coat or tie, as this reporter can remember from times past. More informal.

To amuse themselves, Amy and a friend at my table were playing Scissors, Paper, Rock. That takes coordination and quick reaction time, I thought, because at each throw, the winner reached out and tapped the loser before going on. They laughed and played, and then they added a complication, two-handed throws from each. Still they kept moving swiftly, the tapping redoubling and quick new choices constantly being made.

And then just when I thought their coordination was at its limits, little blond-haired Paul joined them and there were three of them, throwing six little fists and tapping away. What a good way to use up all that energy, I thought.

One has a stereotype of disadvantaged children also having dull eyes and wan faces, due to poor nutrition and lack of stimulation. But obviously the schools don’t lose track of these kids when they go home. They are very much healthy and engaged. They are very much healthy and engaged.

Going across the room I sat with the Gallatin School contingent. One of the little girls at the table offered me a bite of her Kit Kat, a generous act. These children are selected, Roger had told me, because of their extreme neediness. Other than this, they won’t have any Christmas at all.

Rich and Don and Shirley stayed at their posts till the last child, and Mike Pohlen helped Dan, both grandfathers, with getting each child to focus and smile when Dan took their pictures. President Greg and Treasurer Barbara Lamberth, who wore in a glittery blue and black sweater with her white pants, sat back and watched with approval. Barbara oversaw the event and the decorations for the table, red bells and a scattering a little peppermint canes.

Santa had appeared at about 12:25, and by 1:40 the children had all left to go back to their classrooms. No Rotary group picture this year. Nary a crumb was left.

But I do believe Santa was heard to observe, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a Good Night.”

Mayor's Corner: A thank you from Sean Ashton

Hello Downey,

As part of the City of Downey’s Park Improvement Project, we opened the new Futsal Courts at Independence Park. Previously unused portions of Independence Park will now house three new futsal courts that will allow two teams of five players to play with new state of the art equipment.

A new walkway around the perimeter will allow easy access to courts. New light poles were installed to better illuminate the futsal courts and the rest of Independence Park.

Measure S dollars are hard at work and many upcoming projects are planned for the upcoming year. All of the city’s parks will see upgrades. Some of the improvements include:

• Irrigation system replacement

• Turf renovation

• Synthetic field conversion

• Playground resurfacing

• Parking lot upgrades

• Ball field lighting upgrades

• Restroom renovations

• New walking trails

• New community buildings

• ADA improvements

The Council and I, with the support of a professional and experienced city staff, have worked diligently to represent your interests and express your collective views on some of the key issues impacting our overall quality of life.

In January, the City Council met to discuss the goals and objectives for the year. The City Council’s five overarching principles are: Fiscal Responsibility, Efficiency and Adaptability, Economic Vibrancy, Quality of Life, Safety and Infrastructure, and Public Engagement.

These central priorities are what guides us and what has led to so many accomplishments this year including the most robust infrastructure improvement plan in the city’s history; $50 million worth of upgrades will be completed in the next two years.

One of my top priorities for this year was ensuring that all residents were given the information they need to be aware and engaged in city happenings. That is why along with the State of the City, we have conducted a series of townhall meetings, quarterly Coffee with the Cop events and increased social media presence to better inform our residents of City’s events, programs and future plans.

It has been my pleasure and privilege to serve as your Mayor this year. The City of Downey is an outstanding place to live, work and play. I have considered this position as one of the most important roles in my life. It has been wonderful to meet so many people, travel to Sacramento to advocate for our city, and celebrate our city’s achievements with local and international leaders. There is so much to celebrate in Downey. We truly do live in the best city in the world.

Thank you Downey for your trust in me. It has been an honor to serve as your Mayor.

Sean Ashton

City Council Office: 562-904-7274
Email: sashton@downeyca.org
Twitter: @realseanashton
Instagram: realseanashton
Facebook: facebook.com/electsean4downey

Galvez murder defendant will only see three to five years despite plea deal, DPD says

DOWNEY - More than three years after the tragic death of Downey police officer Ricardo “Ricky” Galvez, one of the defendants in the murder trial has entered a plea deal to evade criminal charges.

Abel Diaz was 16 years old when he participated in a botched robbery attempt that resulted in the fatal shooting of 29-year-old Downey police officer and Marine veteran Galvez in the DPD parking lot on Nov. 18, 2015.

Diaz, now 20 years old, and his attorneys made a deal with prosecutors before his court appearance on Friday, agreeing to admit to the murder and attempted robbery of Galvez, and the robbery of Edward Garcia, in exchange for the plaintiff’s withdrawal from a pursuit of the matter in criminal court.

With this deal, Diaz’s case is settled in the Juvenile Justice system.

Despite having already reached an agreement, Diaz still had to sit and face many of the fallen officer’s fellow officers, friends, and loved ones.

During an impact statement, Police Chief Dean Milligan said that Galvez “was always eager to help.”

“Ricky was stolen from us when he was insensibly murdered in the parking lot of the Downey Police Department,” said Milligan. “We will never be the same following his murder.”

An emotional Captain Mark McDaniel also gave a statement.

“My life has not been the same since. The Downey Police Department has not been the same since,” said McDaniel. “The last three years have been agonizing to say the least.”

“Ricky would have done more good in one traffic stop than the accused will ever think of doing in his life.”

As proceedings continued, Senate Bill 1437 – recently signed by Gov. Jerry Brown in September – hung over the room like a thick, black cloud.

Under SB 1437, prosecutors’ ability to use the “felony murder rule” to charge accomplices with homicide is limited, stating that that a person can be convicted of murder only if he or she “was the actual killer” or “aided, abetted, counseled, commanded, induced, solicited, requested, or assisted the actual killer” or “was a major participant in the underlying felony and acted with reckless indifference to human life.”

On the night of the Galvez murder, Diaz says that he was attempting to enter Galvez’s car from the passenger side door – which was locked – when he heard the gunshot.

Still, Galvez’s siblings blamed Diaz during their statements.

“There is consequence to sin, and they deserve to pay…,” said brother Pedro Galvez.

Galvez’s sister, Sandra, shared the same sentiments in her statement.

“Whether you pulled the trigger or not, you’re still guilty,” she said. “I hope your attorneys can sleep knowing they are defending a criminal, because for the last three years they have become our family’s worst nightmare.”

“Someone like you deserves to rot behind bars…no matter what, you will always be a murderer in my eyes.”

Diaz faces between 15 years to life in prison, but Downey police officials are skeptical he will serve anywhere near that amount of time.

That answer hinges on whether Diaz will serve his time in juvenile detention or state prison, which will be decided by a judge on Jan. 4.

That’s exactly why DPD officials are less than satisfied.

“The law requires that when someone turns 19 years of age that they be housed in men’s prison,” said Milligan. “The debate now is whether he will be retained in the juvenile detention system until the age of 25, or in the men’s prison system until the court determines that his sentence has been fulfilled.”

“In the juvenile system, you can’t be maintained in custody past the age of 25, so with him being 20 now the maximum time he would serve in the juvenile system would be five years, and often times rehabilitation is believed to occurred and released prior to that. There’s an expectation that he may only be in the juvenile justice system until the age of 22 or 23, we just don’t know for sure until they decide which way it’s going to go…”

McDaniel said that he was “disappointed in the system.”

“It’s heartbreaking because Ricky’s family has been re-victimized over and over again, and that’s what’s hurting me,” said McDaniel. “As a community, as a police department, as just doing the right thing, some of these laws that are being passed up in Sacramento…is jeopardizing the safety of our communities.

“For Ricky’s admitted murderer to be released from jail in the next few years is an outrage, because there’s no doubt that he should spend the rest of his life behind bars.”

Downey: 40 under 40 (2018)

When the Downey Patriot published its first “40 Under 40” list last year, the question we most often received was, “How are you possibly going to find 40 extraordinary young people from Downey?”

The real question should have been, “How do we limit it to just 40 people?”

We faced the same dilemma this year, as we were inundated with nominations across various industries, including athletics, medicine, performing arts, business, and politics. Several people nominated promising students for their extraordinary work in high school or college.

After dozens of interviews – in-person, via email, and over the phone – and lots of hand-wringing, we present, in no particular order, the second installment of “40 Under 40” — 40 Downey people under the age of 40 doing remarkable things in their communities and/or careers.

1.) Lana Joy Wahlquist

Age: 39

Lana Joy Wahlquist is an actor, director, producer, and educator who has been working in the field of theatre for 15-plus years.

As a founding member of Downey Arts Coalition, Lana has enjoyed producing and directing plays, staged readings, and other performing arts events in and around Downey. Most recently she has directed local productions of “Defying Gravity” by Jane Anderson and “A Civil War Christmas” by Paula Vogel.

As an actor, she has appeared on such stages as “A Noise Within,” “The Hudson,” Sierra Repertory Theatre, and “The Odyssey.”

As an educator, she has taught theatre at Cerritos College, Cal State Northridge, and Norwalk High School, where she also directed more than 10 plays.

Lana is an accredited leader with La Leche League International, a volunteer organization designed for mother-to-mother support of breastfeeding. She has been active since 2007 and speaks regularly on panels about breastfeeding, and added a monthly meeting in Downey.

“Lana has been such an incredible source of support for my son and me throughout our breastfeeding journey,” said Erin Wiebe. “I reached out to La Leche League when we were having a very difficult time breastfeeding and Lana was there for us every step of the way. She empathetically listened to my tears, gave invaluable advice for my concerns, and enthusiastically celebrated each of our successes. Breastfeeding has been an amazing experience and we would not have been able to do it without Lana.”

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2.) Erika Gonzalez

Age: 29

When Erika Gonzalez attended Coachella for the first time, she was enamored with the bohemian chic fashions that other women were wearing. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a whole lot of option to find styles like that in Downey.

That is, until Gonzalez brought it to her city.

Gonzalez is co-owner and primary operator of Gypsy Queen, a boutique style shop found on Paramount Blvd.

While owning and operating a business is still new to her, Gonzalez continues to learn and grow along with her business.

Using her keen eye for fashion trends and a mastery of social media, Gonzalez has expanded a once trailer boutique into the storefront that Gypsy Queen is today, and provided Downey women with a way to express their free-spirits through fashion.

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3.) Jonathan O’Neill

Age: 17

Photo by William Odis Martin

Jonathan O’Neill isn’t legally an adult but he’s already making a name for himself in the world of mixed martial arts.

O’Neill has won three championship belts in Muay Thai, a form of martial arts that consists of stand-up striking using feet, shins, elbows, and fists. His record currently stands at 7-1, and he’s set to defend his WBC belt early next year.

The young champion credits his early success to his father, Eric O’Neill, his coach and mentor Isaias Nambo, and the rest of the team at King Cobra in Downey, where he trains.

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4.) Ricardo Perez

Age: 36

Ricardo Perez is a civil litigation attorney who practices law out of Downey. He has litigated and settled numerous high-profile cases; most recently, Perez secured the release of Marco Contreras, who was wrongfully convicted of attempted murder and sentenced to life in prison. He was released in 2017 after serving 20 years in prison.

Perez is active in the Downey community, volunteering regularly with the Warren High School Ideas Club, organizing free legal fairs and citizenship clinics, and he actively supports Downey Art Vibe, the non-profit which oversees Stay Gallery, where he served for many years on the board of directors.

Perez also co-founded Ferias Legales, a non-profit organization devoted to bringing free legal resources to underserved communities.

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5.) Hans Fritz

Age: 28

Hans K. Fritz is the owner and CEO of HKF Consulting LLC. Hans began his consulting business over four years ago and is primarily based out of Downey, but services other areas in LA County. As a political consultant, Hans works for four currently elected Downey city council members, including Mayor Rick Rodriguez, and two former Downey mayors such as Mario Guerra. Hans has been involved in nine statewide and local campaigns, eight of which have been successful.

HKF Consulting LLC also offers media and sales consulting to foreign and domestic companies looking to improve their online presence and growth within their industry.

Hans is majoring in business administration with a concentration on entrepreneurship at CSU Dominguez Hills where he is also very involved having served as the marketing director for the Latinos Student Business Association.

Growing up, Hans always envisioned himself as a business owner. It was after being surrounded by the right motivating people that gave Hans the push he needed to start his own business. Although only owner-operated, Hans has grown his business exponentially over the past couple of years.

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6.) Jesse Kalashyan

Age: 28

Practicing law is never set in stone; it’s more about being able to solve unique problems in creative ways, and that’s what Jesse Kalashyan likes about it.

Kalashyan is an immigrant from Armenia. He and his family came to the United Stated in 1996 when he was nearly 6 years old. During his childhood, Kalashyan’s parents instilled in him to work hard and find success pursuing his interests.

He found that interest in law during high school.

The 2009 Warren High School graduate received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of California, Berkeley, then went on to get his Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School in 2017.

Since then, Kalashyan’s work portfolio is quite weighted, including time spent working at the U.S. Mission to the World Trade Organization in Geneva, Switzerland. One of his biggest trade disputes while in Geneva was representing the United States, on behalf of Boeing, versus the European Union, on behalf of Airbus.

If that wasn’t enough, Kalashyan now works for Skadden, a high caliber international law firm that represents some of the biggest companies in the world.

It’s a good thing he likes to apply himself, because Kalashyan says at times the work can be very demanding, which makes sense when you consider the $4 billion aerospace and defense merger he already has under his belt.

7.) Jailene Lemus

Age: 19

This could be one of our future Supreme Court Justices.

Despite her young age, Jailene Lemus could probably hold her own in government.

As part of Downey-South Gate Youth Government, she was selected as one of 25 students to represent California’s Youth and Government program in the Conference of National Affairs over the summer of 2017. As part of the Downey Youth Commission, she organized Student Government Day, Hosted Warren’s first voter registration drive in 2016, and communicated with her city council on youth related issues.

She then interned with the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office.

Now attending Wellesley College in Boston, Mass., the aspiring lawyer continues to be active in the workings of government: she currently serves as the Student Body Representative of the Elections Committee at Wellesley, as well as the CPLA Representative of the Wellesley Democrats and the Treasurer of the Committee of Political and Legislative Awareness.

8.) Art Montoya

Age: 30

You’ll be hard-pressed to find someone more “Downey” than Art Montoya.

He attended Rio Hondo Elementary and Griffiths Middle School, where he was active in DJAA and the AYSO. He went on to Warren High and found a love for community service, giving his time to the yearbook staff, Key Club and CSF, while playing football, cross country, soccer, and track and field.

After graduation, he went on to Cal State Long Beach. In the summer of 2011, Montoya completed an internship with Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, an eye-opening and inspiring experience that motivated him to get more politically involved.

Montoya graduated from Cal State Long Beach with a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in law, policy, and politics. He moved on to UC Irvine to obtain his master’s degree.

In 2016, Montoya saw another opportunity for service and ran for City Council. He lost to eventual winner Rick Rodriguez, but for Montoya it was ultimately a blessing, as he was able to study abroad, including in Hungary, Germany and Cuba. He graduated with his MBA in 2017.

Today, Montoya is a law student at the La Verne College of Law and has been elected class representative in the Student Bar Association. Upon graduation, he plans to go into business law and found a non-profit to help youth access higher education.

9.) Bianca Salgado

Age: 23

For most young people, the most involved in government they get is when they vote at the polls. But for Bianca Salgado, her engagement runs much deeper.

Salgado says that she found interest in “how America functions” in high school. The 2013 Downey alumnus began studying Political Science at Cerritos College, receiving her Associates degree in 2016. She went on to receive her Bachelor’s – again in Poli Sci - with an emphasis in Global Politics and a minor in Philosophy at California State University Long Beach, which she completed this year.

Continuing on trend, Salgado is responsible for the Downey Coalition for Sustainable Development Goals, which is centered around having the significant various round-table discussions surrounding the 17 Global Goals and to ensure and record the implementation of each of the 17 SDGs as each goal is achieved in the local community and in the long-term approach of neighboring cities within Southern California.

Her newest endeavor is as a Youth Engagement Coordinator with the Humanity Lab Foundation.

10.) Haley Guerra

Age: 26

She’s only 26 years old, but Haley Guerra has already made her mark in local politics.

Born and raised in Downey, Haley has been involved in planning and strategy for several state and local candidate races in California. She’s served as communications director for Mayor Pro Tem Rick Rodriguez and Cerritos College board trustee Bob Arthur.

Her experience also includes work in support of the military, such as coordination of Army, Reserve, and National Guard planning, travel for California, and daily coordination with the Secretary of the Army and CASA offices in the Pentagon.

At a young age, her education and experience has given her unique opportunities to work with non-commissioned officers, battalion commanders and generals, helping to assist the Army. Her planning and coordination skills were also put to use locally as she helped plan Downey’s first Military Career Day and Gangs Out of Downey’s first Public Safety Forum.

Haley has volunteered at the Second Tyme Around Thrift Shop and with Operation School Bell. She was a member and appointed vice president of the board of the Assistance League of Downey.

An accomplished athlete, Haley was captain of the varsity water polo and swim team at St. Joseph High School, and was recruited to play water polo at Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo, where she led the school to two consecutive league championships.

After transferring to Loyola Marymount University, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 2015. While at LMU, she was a poll research analyst for the Center for the Study of Los Angeles.

Haley currently resides in Downey with her son, Benny, and fiance, Tyler. She is a personal banking officer at Financial Partners Credit Union.

11.) James Williams

Age: 26

When he graduated from Downey in 2009, James Williams didn’t know what he wanted to do.

Graphic design looked like a promising field, but at the time costs for editing software such as Photoshop were steep. That wouldn’t work.

He had been on Downey’s football team for four years, but didn’t see too much play time due to being short (and truthfully, he was okay with that). If he was going to do sports, it probably wasn’t going to be on the field.

Then he started thinking about comments he had received throughout school about the quality of his writing. His teachers said he was good, so maybe that was the way to go.

Williams’s first big break in writing came in the form of The Downey Patriot, when editor Eric Pierce gave him a shot. After Williams’s saw his first article published, he was hooked.

Along with currently pursing a Journalism Degree at Cal State Long Beach, Williams is working full time as the digital sports producer for Southern California News Group. He is also co-President of the National Association of Black Journalists CSULB chapter.

At the time of writing, Williams is now preparing to head out-of-state to take part in the Associated Press Sports Editors Fellowship.

12.) Ana Godinez

Age: 27

Ana Godinez’s love of art started at a young age and followed her to USC where she graduated with a degree in English Literature and Fine Arts. After college, Ana put down the paintbrush to become curator and youth program coordinator of Stay Gallery where she introduced many young students to local arts for four years.

Ana has worked behind the scenes as a graphic designer for several local companies and organizations. You may not know her face, but you have definitely seen her work. She has created websites and graphics for Stay Gallery, Elysian Salon, Avant Garde, Ferris Legales, and Downey Christmas Parade. She has also painted a vibrant geometric mural inside of Poached Kitchen along with her abstract paintings that adorn a section of the 3rd floor of PIH Health in Downey.

Today, Ana continues to lend her artistic hand to local organizations while working as the Creative Director of Akash Winery & Vineyard and graphic designer at Lil’ Libros. Ana is currently working on illustrating her first children’s book with Lil’ Libros which is set to be published in fall of 2019.

13.) Blake Boyington

Age: 19

Blake Boyington was born and raised in Downey and is the product of Downey schools, graduating from Downey High in June of 2017.

He has always loved to help; his history of volunteering began at Gallatin Elementary, where he spent his recesses helping the custodian sweep and mop the cafeteria.

In middle school, Boyington decided the Downey community was in need of a Facebook page where they could learn about local crime. Since the creation of the “Crime Blog of Downey”, the Facebook page has racked up nearly 5,000 members.

This past June, Boyington’s efforts were recognized when he was selected to receive the Mayor’s Downey DNA Award.

In between going to school, working and running his Facebook page, Boyington found time to become a Buena Park police explorer, in which he dedicated over three years and earned the rank of sergeant.

Boyington currently works as a server at Norm’s restaurant in Downey and attends Cerritos College, where he is majoring in Business. He plans on pursuing his dream career in law enforcement upon receiving his degree.

14.) Sofia Jamora

Age: 21

With more than 2.3 million Instagram followers, Downey’s Sofia Jamora is one of the country’s most popular models, and not just on social media.

Sofia created her Instagram profile in 2014 and gained huge popularity after she was featured in a Lolli Valfre swimsuit campaign. She went on to model for Frankie Bikinis and Love Piper, and gained further fame when Sports Illustrated featured her as its “Lovely Lady of the Day.”

She can also be seen in Zayn Malik’s music video for his song “Let Me.”

15.) Ryan Cho

Age: 16

Ryan Cho, left, receives a certificate of congressional recognition from Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard.

Ryan Cho was one of the few people across the country to earn a Congressional Award Silver Medal, recognizing his extensive work in the community. The Congressional Award is a public-private partnership created by Congress to promote and recognize achievement, initiative, and service in American youth aged 14 to 23. Cho, and other young people across America, earn the Congressional Award by setting and reaching personally challenging goals that build character and promote community service, personal development, and citizenship.

In earning his Congressional Award Silver Medal, Cho volunteered more than 100 hours of service to the Downey FoodHelp food bank, and organized multiple fundraising campaigns for Crops of Love. For his personal development program area, Cho improved his artistic skills across several media, including drawing, acrylic, watercolor and sculpting.

For his physical fitness program area, Cho successfully increased his Kendo skill level and achieved the rank of nikyu. He also increased his strike count and now averages 20 strikes per match.

Finally, for his expedition program area, he traveled to San Francisco, where he explored Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and the Golden Gate Bridge.

16.) Daniela Rodriguez

Age: 29

Daniela Espinoza Rodriguez is founder of The Social Cat, empowering small community businesses to tell their story through modern day social media photography.

“Small business empowers the community by strengthening the local economy, creating more jobs and a greater future for our children,” she says.

Before starting The Social Cat, Daniela worked in nonprofit healthcare for 11 years from direct patient contact, while at the same time assisting the homeless on skid row and assisting in Human Resources and Marketing Business Development. She also worked to help low-income families obtain healthcare.

Daniela developed a successful children’s literacy program, providing 13 health clinics with a steady supply of free books for children ages 3 to high school. She also worked with the Los Angeles County Supervisors office and local governments to help connect youth and working mothers to their communities through social media.

Daniela is a leader and supporter of Latinx businesses, helping family-owned businesses push their everyday products with a cultural flare. A member of the Rotary Club of Downey, Daniela said she is inspired by the club’s motto -- “service above self” -- in her business pursuits.

Daniela has been married to Marco Rodriguez for three years and enjoys spending time with her family, mostly her nieces and nephews in which she has modeled her life to be their role model, exposing them to the importance of community service, public policy, and self-empowerment.

Fun fact: Daniela was crowned Miss Ethnic World 2011 and has worked in radio for Guadalaupe Radio 87.7 FM and Super Estrella 107.1 FM alongside radio personality Ysaak Alvarez.

17.) Gordon Sodetani

Age: 22

Gordon Michael Sodetani calls himself “fortunate” to live in Downey, but in reality it’s Downey that’s fortunate to have him.

Gordon’s penchant for community service started as a Warren High School student, when he was appointed by the City Council to Downey’s Youth Commission. At this same time he became active in the YMCA’s youth programs.

This experience sparked his passion for governance and working with children. Through organizations like Downey Sister Cities, the Downey Rose Float Association, Gangs Out of Downey, and the YMCA, Gordon learned the value of volunteering and paying it forward.

Gordon is currently a graduate student at USC, pursuing a master’s degree in teaching, with an expected graduation in May 2020. He’ll begin student teaching in a local school district in January.

This final stretch of higher education at USC will prepare him for his goal of becoming a middle school teacher. His stand in life is for students: “giving them the tools to be successful so they can bloom and have every opportunity available to them.”

Before USC, Gordon was a student at Cal State Long Beach (graduated May 2018), where he joined his Alpha Gamma Omega fraternity. He organized study sessions for members, served on the fraternity executive board as secretary, treasurer and pledge master. He also joined a Men’s Successive Initiative group at Long Beach that supported and mentored groups for men from African-American and Latino backgrounds, and organized study sessions and coordinating panels for incoming students of color.

Gordon has interned for Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard and Assemblymember Cristina Garcia, volunteered as a camp counselor for the YMCA, and most recently volunteered with USC Town and Gown Day of Service by making jewelry for cancer patients hospitalized at Keck Hospital of USC.

His goal is to become a middle school teacher.

“My stand in life is for students,” he says.

18.) Julianna Gamiz

Age: 6

Not every 6-year-old can say they had their big movie break starring alongside Mark Whalberg, but Julianna Gamiz can.

Gamiz (now known as “The movie star” by her classmates at St. Dominic Savio Catholic School), recently starred in “Instant Family” as Lita, the youngest of three siblings who are adopted out of foster care by a couple who become parents overnight.

You may also recognize her from tv series Jane the Virgin, where she played “Young Jane” (a role she was thrilled to land, since she loved the show before appearing in it).

Between takes, you can probably find Gamiz singing and dancing, or at Disneyland hurtling down the flume of her favorite ride, Splash Mountain.

She’s just a normal kid like everyone else, it just so happens that she’s famous too (and she loves it)!

Look out Hollywood, ‘cause a new star is on the rise. No autographs, please.

19.) Alex Dominguez

Age: 26

Alex Dominguez remembers getting the newspaper on his front porch every week as a kid, so when he sees his name on a byline in the paper now he gets a certain thrill out of it.

Dominguez was introduced to journalism in his junior year at Warren High School. After seeing his first story in print on the front page of the school paper, he was hooked. Dominguez went on to receive his degree in Communications with an emphasis in Print Journalism from California State University Fullerton.

In Spring 2015, Dominguez began writing for The Downey Patriot as an intern, eventually working his way up to a contributor and finally Staff Writer.

Dominguez covers a range of topics from news, breaking news, local politics, human interest and entertainment. He is an award-winning journalist, including a two-time Los Angeles Press Club Award finalist.

Aside from writing, Dominguez returns to Warren every year to speak to students of his former teachers about life after high school, college, and entering the workforce. He previously volunteered at Northwest Downey Little League and District 29 by announcing for tournament baseball games. He’s also highly involved in church activities, volunteering in Imperial Highway Church of Christ’s yearly VBS program and serving on the North Downey Church of Christ’s Trustee Board.

20.) Julian Park

Age: 33

Julian Park doesn’t necessarily consider himself a filmmaker; he hasn’t “made it.” For now, he just calls himself a hobbyist.

But that hasn’t stopped him from exploring his passion for the art. He describes film as “magic,” considering how it takes a little bit of everything - writing, directing, acting, and photography - to come together in perfect harmony to make a great film.

Although he says he has his “normal day job,” Park has managed to already make a couple of films. His first, a documentary on Downey street artist Bumble Bee, caught the attention of the Downey Arts Coalition.

It’s his most recent film though, “Invincible Boy,” that he is currently shopping out to different festivals. Invincible Boy, Park describes, is “about remaining a child and holding onto that childlike wonder that you can do things, whatever you want in the world.” It was shot in and heavily features Downey.

As he approaches the new year, Park says he plans to continue to learn and hone is filmmaking skills. He doesn’t necessarily look for the mega success and fame of other notable film makers, just hopes to be able to one day establish himself and make a living doing what he loves.

21.) Branden Vasquez

Age: 25

Brandon Vasquez was a guitar player and had been in and out of a few bands throughout middle school and high school, so you might be surprised to learn that he traded in his strings, fret and whammy bar for a turntable.

By the time he graduated from Warren in 2011, Vasquez had found a deep interest in music production.

He entered Cal Poly Pomona to study audio engineering. In the meantime, he needed a way to sustain himself.

Vasquez bought his first DJ equipment and started making the transition to producing, while also DJing parties and events to make a living. It wasn’t long though before his new endeavor turned into more than just a way to make some cash.

In 2017, Vasquez officially created his “artist project” and the mantle of Don Dirty. Later that year in December, he was given a chance to be a guest DJ on 99.1 KGGI in Riverside.

As it turns out, the guest DJ opportunities ended up being a sort of tryout, and Vasquez was hired on in March as a full-time mixer with four airtime spots.

22.) David Niemeyer

Age: 39

It’s been a phenomenally successful couple of years for the Warren High School Band and Color Guard program, and much of that is due to the work and dedication of director David Niemeyer.

Niemeyer graduated from Washington State University in December of 2002. Half a year later, he was the new director of the already successful and established band program at Warren.

Under Niemeyer, the band and guard program has continued to expand and grow, now including two jazz bands, two percussion ensembles, winter guards, a concert band, wind ensemble, and of course the award winning marching band.

In fact, Niemeyer and the marching band recently climbed to new heights, winning back to back gold medals in Southern California School Band and Orchestra Field Tournament Championship competition in 2017 and 2018.

Niemeyer is also the spearhead behind the newly minted Downey Unified All District Marching Band, bringing all four middle schools and both high schools together to represent the community through their musical prowess.

Niemeyer was named Teacher of the Year in October.

23.) Sam Sarofeem

Age: 15

24.) Sarah Sarofeem

Age: 13

Sam and Sarah Sarofeem were born two years apart but it wouldn’t be unreasonable to mistake them for twins.

They’re not just siblings, they’re also best friends, and spend much of their time outside school working at their parents’ two restaurants, The Olive RestoBar at the Downey Promenade and the Green Olive. Both are also heavily involved in after-school activities and volunteerism.

Sam, a freshman at Downey High School, is part of the KIWIN’s service club and is a Boy Scout, poised to earn Eagle Scout honors next year. He also plays the cymbals in the school band, is proficient in guitar, and is on pace to earn a black belt in karate next year.

Sarah, an eighth grader at Doty Middle School, has long shown leadership qualities, going back to fifth grade when she was voted Character Council president. She’s an accomplished dancer, competing nationally in tap, jazz, hip hop and contemporary.

At age 11, she auditioned for “Vaelina El Musical” and, despite her young age, was cast as a background dancer. She was named a Little Miss Downey princess in 2014.

Sam’s future goals include attending UCLA and possibly becoming a neurosurgeon. If Sarah doesn’t become a professional actress or dancer, she also would like to attend UCLA and become a plastic surgeon, helping people with reconstructive surgery.

25.) Ben Alemu

Age: 22

In January of this year you were introduced to Ben Alemu, who had been just named a finalist in the 2017-18 Westly Prize for Young Innovators of California for his creation of SENDforC, a national network of student mentors designing high-impact educational service programs and entrepreneurial initiatives for underserved schools.

Alemu was made a runner up in the competition, receiving $5000 from the Westley Foundation on their annual competition.

SENDforC continues to keep Alemu busy, as he says he spends 20 to 30 hours a week of volunteering. He is currently the organizations Executive Director.

After the Westley prize, SENDforC decided to hone in on their San Diego and Bay Area communities and have recently launched their third and fourth partnership high schools in California.

Alemu also recently received his degree in Bio Chemistry and Cell Biology from the University of California San Diego, with a minor in education studies.

26.) Fabian Chavez

Age: 25

Downey is responsible for many successful musical acts, including The Carpenters, Metallica’s James Hetfield, and Weird Al Yankovic. Who’s to say that Fabian Chavez isn’t next on that list?

Chavez was exposed to music at a very early age, having started playing the drums at the age of 2. He later added Latin percussion and saxophone to his repertoire, now claiming that these are his “main instruments.”

While attending Griffiths Middle School and later Warren High School, Chavez participated in several school ensembles. Deciding to continue his musical education beyond the Downey Unified School District, Chavez went on to receive a Bachelors of Music Degree in saxophone performance from California State University, Northridge with an emphasis in Jazz.

Still in his young career, Chavez can already say that he has performed with Grammy Award winning and Grammy Nominated artists such as Ms. Lauryn Hill, Jill Scott, Angelique Kidjo, Mac Miller, Saint Motel, Sergio George, Miguel Bose, Bobby Rush, Maluma, La India, and Dariush among others. He also released his first single – Tranemanya – earlier this year.

Chavez is also a co-founder of Darknote Collective, a music production team that already has music placements on the big and little screens.

Chavez was nominated for a Grammy this year for best Rap album for his contributions on Mac Miller’s “Swimming.”

27.) Mark LaVigne

Age: 25

Mark LaVigne graduated from UCLA in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics. While at UCLA, he was active in its Hooligan Theatre Company, performing in productions and serving as its director of education for two years. In this role, Mark organized groups of theatre students to visit inner-city schools and put on workshops for them.

After leaving UCLA, Mark earned his Master’s degree in Criminalistics from Cal State Los Angeles. He works in Downey for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Crime Lab. He’s been there for over a year as a forensic analyst and recently was given a promotion to a criminalist position.

This is the third fall Mark has taught a class at Cal State Los Angeles, an incredible feat for someone only 25 years old. He currently teaches Introduction to Forensic Science in the graduate program and has also taught a similar class to undergraduates and a laboratory class in the graduate program. Cal State Los Angeles houses the crime labs of both the LAPD and Sheriff’s Department.

28.) Clint LaVigne

Age: 30

Like his younger brother, Clint LaVigne also graduated from UCLA, majoring in Communications and graduating in only three years with honors.

He immediately began work at William Morris Endeavor (WME) talent agency in Beverly Hills. He stayed there for a few years before moving to HBO in its Development Department. Again, he stayed there a few years until he was asked to become the assistant to the president at Amblin Entertainment, Steven Spielberg’s television production company.

He maintained that role for over a year until he was asked to assume the title of creative executive for Amblin, a job that he continues to hold. In this position, he is the gatekeeper for incoming scripts from writers to the agency. This past year, he has found the writers, directors, producers, actors and “packaged” shows to present to Netflix, Amazon, Hulu and others on behalf of Amblin Entertainment.

His first show, “The Haunting of Hill House,” premiered on Netflix on Oct. 12 and has been receiving great reviews. He has three more projects in pre-production and production.

29.) Alyssa Rico

Age: 30

It wouldn’t surprise us if, 10 to 15 years from now, Alyssa Rico was running Downey’s Parks & Recreation Department.

That’s a lot of pressure to put on a person, but it’s a goal that Alyssa doesn’t shy away from. A lifelong Downey resident, Alyssa began working at the Barbara J. Riley Community and Senior Center as a facility attendant in 2008 before a promotion to activity specialist in 2010.

She later became the senior center’s recreation director, coordinating and implementing the facility’s programs and activities, and organizing leisure time activities such as contract classes for pre-school, teens, adults and seniors.

In 2014, she was promoted to recreation coordinator in charge of special events. Her job was to executive large scale events, such as Kids Day, Taste of Downey, and the Halloween pumpkin patch, while staying within budget. She also secured sponsorships, marketed these special events to ensure optimal attendance.

Alyssa was hired as Community Services Coordinator by the City of Moreno Valley in October 2016 where she has even greater responsibilities, including training all senior recreation leaders and overseeing sports budgets. She’s also the city’s liaison for the Arts Commission.

Alyssa is the current treasurer for the California Parks & Recreation Society (Recreation Section) and vice president of the Southern California Municipal Athletic Federation (Inland Empire chapter). She was also a Women in Leisure Services board member from 2014-16.

Alyssa graduated from Biola University with a bachelor’s degree in Community Studies and from Biola University’s Crowell School of Business with a master’s in Business Administration. She graduated with honors.

30.) Evan Longoria

Age: 33

A product of West Downey Little League, Evan Longoria is perhaps Downey’s most accomplished athlete.

Drafted by the Rays with the third overall pick in the 2006 MLB draft, Longoria went on to become the 2008 American League Rookie of the Year. He made three consecutive All-Star games between 2008 and 2010, and won three gold gloves for his defensive work at third base.

Rooting for Longoria became slightly more difficult when he was traded to the San Francisco Giants prior to the 2018 season.

31.) Monica Rivera

Age: 28

You’ll be hard-pressed to find someone more motivated for success than Monica Rivera.

As a freshman student at USC, Rivera landed an internship with a property management company. By the time she graduated four years later, she was the company’s leasing and marketing director.

Rivera’s success in the real estate industry propelled her to her current position as business coach and team leader at Keller Williams in Downey, where she leads a staff of 150 real estate agents. Her priority, however, isn’t necessarily to drive sales and commissions; it’s to help the agents – and their clients – achieve multi-generational wealth.

Helping others achieve their dreams is what Rivera does best. She co-authored “Latina Empowerment Through Leadership” in 2017, in which she shares her struggles and triumphs as a Latina woman.

She’s been invited to speak and lead workshops on topics ranging from motivation to branding and business, and has written articles for the Huffington Post, examining the intersections of culture, wealth-building, real estate, and politics.

“When someone says I can’t do something, either because I’m young, a woman, or a Latina,” that pushes me,” said Rivera.

32.) Ernesto Rojas

Age: 22

A Doctorate is no easy feat to come by, but Ernesto Rojas is so up for the challenge that he looks to have two within eight years.

While he was at Warren, Rojas could have been described as the poster-child of success. He was a Golden Bear recipient in Science as a Freshman (most Golden Bear Awards go to seniors). He was within the top students of his class. He was drum major of the marching band. You can add Prom King to the list as well.

Not much has changed since.

Rojas went on to UCLA, where he just earned a degree in Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology (MCDB) and a minor in Biomedical research. He graduated with College Honors, Highest Department Honors, and Magna Cum Lade.

And still he shows no signs of slowing down.

Rojas is currently traveling to and interviewing at several top-notch schools, with eyes set on earning a MD and Ph-D.

The ultimate goal?

Rojas plans to work studying infertility. While he says he primarily wants to work in a research lab, he hopes to one day be able to work with couples who have difficulties conceiving and ultimately give them a shot at the family that they’ve dreamed of having.

33.) Mariah Lora

Age: 18

Mariah Lora isn’t like most teenagers, or most adults for that matter.

Last year, as a senior at Warren High School, Mariah was elected by nearly 4,000 of her peers to serve as ASB president. As president, she founded Small Acts of Kindness, a non-profit that promoted nice gestures among students. The organization hosted a dinner for Paramount High School’s ASB, after the school’s ASB advisor was shot and injured in the Las Vegas terror attack.

Mariah also hosted the First Annual Silent Heroes Company, bringing Warren and Downey High’s ASB together to host an awards ceremony for 10 outstanding people from Downey who embody selflessness, compassion, hardwork, and go above and beyond to protect and develop students in the Downey Unified School District. A few of the recipients included a Warren High security guard, a Downey police officer, a teacher, Dr. Mary Stauffer, and a librarian.

As a high school junior, Mariah was elected as majority floor leader in Assemblymember Cristina Garcia’s Young Legislators program. By the time Mariah graduated, she had a 4.06 cumulative GPA, earned a CSF Seal Bear distinction, and was captain of the varsity basketball team, leading the Bears to a CIF championship.

Mariah was crowned Miss Downey this past spring and has continued her charitable endeavors at Cerritos College, co-founding an English honors society for English majors such as herself. She is an honors program scholar and is working on undergraduate research that will be presented at the National Conference of Undergraduate Research. She also plays point guard for the Cerritos College women’s basketball team.

Mariah plans to transfer to a university in 2020 and double major in English and education. She also plans to run for local office in Downey and eventually the state, advocating for equality in our school systems.

34.) Alejandra Barreto

Age: 18

A first-generation college student from a family born in Jalisco, Mexico, Alejandra Barreto earned quite the achievement this year: she was chosen as a Gates Scholar.

Alejandra was one of only 300 students across the nation selected out of a pool of 28,700 applicants. As a Gates Scholar, Alejandra received a scholarship that not only pays her college tuition, but also housing, books, transportation, health insurance and other costs.

The scholarship is funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Alejandra moved to Downey from Lynwood when she was in middle school, attending West Middle School. She moved on to Warren High School, graduating this past June.

Alejandra began attending USC this fall, double majoring in Human Biology and Spanish. The scholarship will also send Alejandra to Spain to study abroad for an entire semester.

While at Warren, Alejandra graduated with a 4.92 GPA (second highest in her class), and competed in SkillsUSA competitions, making it to the national level three times. She also played varsity water polo and swimming during all four years as a Bear.

Alejandra credits her success to her teachers.

“I know it takes a village, I’ve seen it here at Warren,” Alejandra said. “I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the help of many of my teachers. And through this scholarship, I hope to continue to do the same for others and influence them to follow their dreams.”

35.) Edward Mejia

Age: 24

Education looms large for Downey native Edward Mejia.

Only 24, he works as an admissions counselor for Pepperdine University, encouraging students to apply to the university in the regions he covers which includes Los Angeles, Seattle, Colorado, Florida, Georgia and other regions across the country.

He’s a student at Pepperdine himself, studying to obtain his master’s in leadership in higher education, with a goal of becoming a chancellor of student affairs.

Mejia is part of the Ready.Set.Go. program at Chico State (his alma mater), giving presentations at Downey High School on college life.

36.) Moises Rios-Hernandez

Age: 36

Moises Rios is a Los Angeles native but was raised in Downey, graduating from Downey High School in 2000. After high school, he shipped off to boot camp, serving our country with the U.S. Marines.

After his service, Moises enrolled in butcher school in Kingston, N.Y., in 2012. As a kid, he had spent his summers working at Luis Meat Market in Downey, and the work had always fascinated him. He finished butcher school in 2013 and took over the Luis Meat Market, changing the name to Luis Butcher Shop.

Moises has expanded the restaurant’s reputation in Downey, earning acclaim for a variety of handcrafted dishes, including black pepper country-style ribs, 18-hour smoked brisket sandwiches, and Argentine sausage.

As a veteran small business owner, Moises has also committed himself to the Downey community. He is president of Courage Forward, a support network for local veterans, and is involved with Gangs Out of Downey.

37.) Steve Sedano

Age: 23

There aren’t many young people as dedicated to giving back as Steve Sedano.

Sedano’s first venture into volunteering was at the Downey Family YMCA where he also joined the YMCA Youth and Government program that works imilar to a mock trial.

He is now responsible for the LA Thunderbirds, a non-profit designed to provide the youth of LA, including those with special needs, the opportunities to excel at Lacrosse. He also founded Protect LA, another nonprofit that is dedicated to building a culture of college attendance within South LA.

When away from his nonprofit organizations, Sedano works with Courage Forward, Downey’s local veteran support organization.

Recently, Sedano began working at Shop Now To Fund (SNTF), a tech company that gives away 40% of retail purchases to an organization of the purchasers choice. They are currently helping Courage Forward, A veteran organization that is based in Downey, raise money as well as the Downey Parks and Recreation raise money to build new facilities for Apollo Park.

Having earned a degree in Anthropology with an emphasis in Biology from Cal State University in Long Beach in 2017, Sedano is currently preparing himself for Stanford University where he will pursue his MBA and Dr’s in Education next year.

38.) Walter Sarnoi

Age: 32

Walter Sarnoi started off a little rough around the edges. He was a troublemaker, and was headed down a path that wouldn’t lead him to much good.

But some intervention from the 10-20 club and a love of fighting was able to turn things around for the future boxing champion.

After getting his education at the University of Northern Michigan, Sarnoi set off to focus on his boxing career and his childhood dream of holding a WBC “green belt.”

Sarnoi currently holds a 21-4 record, with 13 knockout wins and no knockout losses. More importantly though, he recently took the title of World Boxing Council Latino Silver Featherweight Champion.

39.) Joseph Manacmul

Age: 35

From an art gallery to street pita? It may not be the most obvious transition ever told, but it’s exactly the path that Joseph Manacmul took.

Manacmul received an Associates Arts Degree from Cerritos College in 2004 and a Bachelor’s of Art’s Degree in History in 2006 from UCLA.

After completing his education, Manacmul would find himself at the heart of Downey’s art scene, serving as Director of Operations for the Downey Art Vibe. He would remain there from 2012 to 2016.

Eventually, Manacmul moved on from the position with Stay Gallery and Downey Art vibe, and entered into a whole different kind of arts: the culinary arts.

Specifically, Pita.

Manacmul has made an entirely new mark on Downey in the form of Greek food. As a partner of the Parea Restaurant Group, Manacmul has helped bring Louks Greek Baby Donuts and street food restaurant Pita GR to Downey, the latter of which he currently manages.

40.) Matias Flores

Age: 39

Matias Flores fits a relatively new trend seen here in Downey – young individuals going out, becoming educated and establishing themselves in their profession, then coming back and using their new knowledge to contribute to the city.

Flores received his law education at Loyola Law School, his undergrad at UC Santa Barbara, and in-between became a certified interpreter at the Southern California School of Interpretation. His first job came in 2011 at the Law Office of Nigel Burns in Downtown LA, where he primarily worked on family law.

He opened his own firm in 2016 in Downey, where he says it is now thriving with close to 200 clients.

Flores has also been a member of the city planning commission since late 2012. Having been appointed to the position by Councilman Fernando Vasquez – who termed out this month – his time as part of the commission is likely coming to an end.

Downey residents star in 'The Nutcracker'

DOWNEY – This weekend, a handful of residents of the city of Downey will be performing in “The Nutcracker” ballet.

Each year, Southern California Dance Theatre shares its production of “The Nutcracker” at the Downey Theatre. The Nutcracker is a timeless holiday tradition that is sure to delight your senses and fill you with the spirit of Christmas.

The SCDT Nutcracker ballet is a must-see this holiday season, and is sure to entertain and awe-inspire from the performances of these special dancers to the magical growing Christmas tree, the dreamy dance between Clara and her Nutcracker Prince, and the enchanted land of the sweets and Sugar Plum fairy.

Limited tickets are still available for both shows, and can be purchased online at www.downeytheatre.org, by phone 562-861-8211, or in person at the box office.

In this year’s Nutcracker, you will see Downey residents in the roles of Young Clara, Battle Prince, and Arabian lead. Tania Medina, who started dancing at three years of age, fell in love with ballet during her very first class. She dreamed of becoming Clara, and demonstrated her dedication to work hard by attending as many classes as were available to her. Tania’s dream came true, and she will be performing as Young Clara!

Talent and hard work must run in the family, as Tania’s older sister, Luisa Medina has been cast as a lead Arabian dancer.

Luisa began dancing at Southern California Dance Academy seven years ago when she was only six. She has participated in many of SCDTs productions, with her favorite roles being Prayer in last spring’s Coppelia, and Chinese lead in last year’s Nutcracker. The role of Arabian lead is at the top of her favorites now.

Luisa will perform this breathtaking dance, one that requires a combination of flexibility, strength, and athleticism while exuding a graceful ease that allows the audience to become enraptured with the beauty of the dancers and their movements.

Our Battle Princes this year will be performed by two brothers sharing the role, Kevin and Blake Cordova. After watching a performance of The Nutcracker in 2010, these two Downey natives became interested in ballet. Shortly thereafter both Kevin and Blake began taking ballet classes at SCDA.

Kevin is now a freshman at Downey High School, has played football with the Downey Razorbacks, and is a third degree black belt in karate.

Blake is a 6th grader at Doty Middle School where he participates in school band. He also enjoys reading and creating art projects.

Seven years since their first ballet class, Kevin and Blake will debut in their role as Battle Prince, and valiantly attempt to protect young Clara from the terrifying Mouse King and his minions of attacking mice, leading the toy soldiers into battle.

They will also alternate as Clara’s brother Fritz, a mischievous boy who causes quite a commotion along with the other boys at the Christmas party hosted by Clara’s family.

Southern California Dance Theatre is located in the city of Long Beach, and offers classical ballet training, as well as contemporary workshops, spring and summer dance camps, and a summer intensive for intermediate and advanced dancers.

In addition, SCDT holds three full productions each year, all held at the beautiful Downey Theatre.

Paula Vreulink is the Creative Director of the company, and this year she has reimagined the story line from previous years to create an even more ethereal and dreamy experience.

Under Mayor Rodriguez, 2019 looks to be year of collaboration

DOWNEY - Councilman Rick Rodriguez officially started his year as Mayor last Thursday, pledging to collaborate many of Downey’s resources to tackle some of the city’s tough issues.

Before Rodriguez could take center stage, the residents of Downey honored and gave due to outgoing Mayor Sean Ashton, as is customary at the yearly mayoral transition ceremony.

2018 was Ashton’s - who was sworn in to his second term just two days prior – first opportunity to serve as Mayor.  

Outgoing Mayor Sean Ashton and new Mayor Rick Rodriguez. Photo by Alex Dominguez

“This year as mayor has been a really special year, very busy; busier than I ever really fathomed,” said Ashton.

Much of what Ashton covered were improvements made around the city including in infrastructure, and notably upgrades to the fire stations and library through Measure S funds, both of which are still currently in progress.

“Our library hasn’t really been modified since it was built,” said Ashton. “We’re taking the time to rehab the entire library. It’s going to be a gorgeous, new state-of-the-art library…something we’re looking forward to.”

The Measure S Funds will also contribute to several park upgrades throughout the city.

Ashton also highlighted a special tribute project that was approved within the last year.

“One other thing I’m proud of…was getting a firefighters memorial,” said Ashton. “We have our Police memorial…it’s right and fitting to do one for our fallen firefighters as well.”

Ashton said that the already approved memorial will hopefully be installed in March or April of next year.

Shortly after Ashton wrapped up his address, Rodriguez was sworn in to his new role flanked by family.

Very much in line with his personality and faith, Rodriguez’s first act as mayor was to lead those in attendance – and symbolically, the city – in prayer, in which he asked for a year “free of turmoil and strife, and focused on the positive.”

The new mayor then went straight into his presentation, in which he lined out several of his visions for 2019.

Rodriguez first spoke on veterans, rehashing much of the work that the community already does for those who have served including the military banner and pets for troops programs.

Rick Rodriguez sworn in. Photo by Alex Dominguez

He then announced plans for a Military Service Day.

“We’re very fortunate in our city; 96 percent of our kids graduate high school - which is a huge statistic – but I’m not done yet with that,” said Rodriguez. “We collaborated with our nonprofits, with Downey Unified, [and] on Jan. 22nd, we’ll be holding a military service day at Calvary Chapel in Downey. Calvary Chapel has opened their doors to us to over 500 juniors and seniors. They’ll come out on Jan. 22nd and there will be all branches of the military. They’ll discuss jobs that have transferable skills like electricians, construction, medical, engineering, I.T., so when they finish their military service they can leave there, earn their education and go right into the job force.”

Rodriguez also doubled down on his desire to coordinate and collaborate the efforts of all of Downey’s volunteer forces; an endeavor he has pursued since first taking office.

“My first year in office I held a volunteer roundup where 200 like-minded people came out to watch and learn, and see how they could help the citizens of Downey,” said Rodriguez. “Step one, we’ll divide all the service clubs to meet and discuss and see how each of them can serve certain issues in our city…they’ll be assigned their programs, they’ll go back to their membership, they’ll come back in March and discuss their operation.”

“Step three…right here in the breezeway, every club will be represented there with a pop-up and they can recruit with any volunteers they like. By the stroke of noon, all those service projects will be done. We’ll see hundreds of volunteers all throughout our city doing good for others for no other recognition than a thank you.”

Next came a highlight of the recently established clergy council, which is still in its infancy.

“I think in America we’ve figured out that in order to run a very well ran city, in order to have a collective group in your neighborhood, you need to involve the local place of worship, so I created the City of Downey first Clergy Council,” said Rodriguez. “These folks are really the boots on the ground; they get things done. You talk about homeless, kids at risk, runaways, sex trafficking, gang violence, believe me the churches, they know how to fix that problem.”

“We have 54 churches with a Downey address…36 are involved. We meet every month…. they all come together. We all realize that we are all here to serve one purpose, to serve God’s most precious asset, his people.”

Rodriguez also shed light on a new grassroots, stakeholder based group focused on tackling issues surrounding foster children.

“170 kids in our city are part of the foster care program,” said Rodriguez. “Foster care kids are 50 percent more likely to develop an addiction to drugs or alcohol, 50 percent more likely to be arrested, join a gang, become homeless, or even become suicidal.”

“If we want to fix the problem, we have to stop the problem. I sat with…LA County Department of Children and Family Services, our Downey Unified School District, Downey Police Department, LA County Probation, members of our clergy council, our own TLC nonprofit, LA County mental health [Department], our veterans nonprofits, and Parks and Recreation Department all to provide resources for our kids.”

Rodriguez also introduced a new Downey Business Watch, a quarterly crime prevention series with Downey businesses at its core.

“Crime has changed a lot,” said Rodriguez. “I want to collaborate with our Chamber of Commerce and our Downey businesses and have those discussions about how to better secure their business. Any business will tell you any internal theft or crime affects their bottom line. Let’s have those discussions about identity theft, being a good witness, credit card or check fraud, security technology, how to bring them back to be successful in business.”

This is Rodriguez’s first opportunity to serve as Mayor. He was elected to council in 2016.

Donors deliver hundreds of teddy bears to children fighting cancer

DOWNEY — UCLA Alumni delivered hundreds of teddy bears to children undergoing cancer treatment at UCLA’s Mattel Children’s Hospital on Monday.

This is the sixth year that the the UCLA Alumni Los Angeles Southeast Network (“Southeast Bruins”) team up with recent UCLA alumna Alexandra Munoz and her mom, Sylvia Munoz, who is also a UCLA alumna.

Alexandra is a cancer survivor and underwent cancer treatment while a student at UCLA. She credits a teddy bear with comforting her through the cold, lonely nights at the Hospital.

Since being cleared of cancer, Alexandra has collected teddy bears and delivered them to children undergoing cancer treatment.

This year, the Southeast Bruins, with help from the Downey Girl Scouts Troop #01173, collected over 150 teddy bears at their annual Holiday Party. On Monday, Ricardo Perez and Maria Torres of the Southeast Bruins, together with the Beachside Bruins, Bay Cities Bruins, Silicon Beach Bruins, Westside Bruins, Alexandra and her mother, Sylvia, delivered hundreds of teddy bears to the children currently fighting cancer at the Mattel Children's Hospital.

The UCLA Alumni groups and the multiple boxes of teddy bears were welcomed by Alice del Rosario from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the UCLA Mascot Josephine Bruin.

For more information about the event or the group, please contact Immediate Past President Ricardo Perez, Southeast at rperez@alumni.ucla.edu.

OP-ED: Getting homeless veterans off the streets is a victory for Downey

Everyone wants to help the homeless, just not in their backyard.

A proposal to build housing for low-income and homeless veterans fell under boisterous opposition this year, particularly by families concerned about its effect on property values.

This particular housing development is slated to be built at 11269 Garfield Ave., on property owned by L.A. County. The property is in Downey and abuts a South Gate neighborhood.

The lot previously was home to American Legion Post No. 723, which was demolished earlier this month to make room for the new apartments.

It’s unclear how many people will live at the new complex, but the property totals 2.24 acres, enough space to help a significant number of veterans and their families.

If these protests against affordable housing sound familiar, it’s because Downey has been through this before. In 2014, construction began on The View, a six-story, 50-unit low-income apartment complex in the heart of Downtown Downey.

The complaints were largely the same: low-income housing would negatively impact property values. They would become “projects.” There was belief that affordable housing was more appropriate for communities outside Downey, although no one was brave enough to say that out loud and statistics show that a significant number of Downey families live below the poverty line.

Four years later, the reality is that The View is one of Downey’s most architecturally beautiful structures. And thanks to on-site property management, The View is largely unassuming, the complex quiet and neatly maintained. (In fact, the only publicity The View has generated was positive, when residents held a barbecue for police officers and firefighters.)

This new development for distressed veterans is an example of Downey and L.A. County taking demonstrable action against a problem that has plagued our society far too long.

You can’t say, “I support veterans” and begin your next breath with, “But…”

You can’t claim to have empathy for veterans but on the condition your personal comfort is not impacted.

American Legion Post No. 723 operated for decades but in its final years was nothing more than a watering hole for aging vets in search of cheap beer.

According to a memorandum of understanding between L.A. County and Downey, at least 50% of the units will be set aside specifically for homeless veterans. To be clear, this is not a homeless shelter; it is permanent housing for U.S. veterans who are currently living on the streets or in transitional housing.

This is a victory for Downey and all of L.A. County, including South Gate.

OP-ED: Don't leave the American Legion behind

Photo by Brian Heyman

While the nation was mourning the death of WWII Naval Aviator and 41st President of the United States, George Herbert Walker Bush, the building housing the American Legion Post 723 in Hollydale was demolished by Los Angeles County, which owns the parcel in Downey, to make way for a proposed veterans' housing project.

The flag flying at half-mast in front of the building to honor our former Commander-in Chief was sadly apropos, as bulldozers brought down the walls of a place where so many local veterans of our wars have gathered since the Hollydale Post was established in the 1940's.

For all intents and purposes, the demolition of the building is akin to the death of American Legion Post 723. The contents of the building were removed by its members and transferred to storage before demolition, but without a permanent meeting place to gather, it is unlikely the post will survive.

Downey's American Legion Post 270 meets on the third Tuesday of the month in the Sizzler Restaurant on Lakewood Blvd. at 7 p.m., but it is struggling from declining membership. Its remaining members are still active in Downey by supporting both the Veteran's Day ceremony at City Hall and the Memorial Day ceremony at the Downey Cemetery, but in declining numbers every year unfortunately.

Veterans of our military conflicts in the 21st century don't seem to be interested in joining the American Legion or the Veterans of Foreign Wars, as almost everyone did after service during WWII, the Korean War or the Vietnam War. This isn't isolated to Downey; American Legion and VFW posts across the country struggle with declining membership.

Downey honors the active duty service of our citizen soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen through the military banners posted along Firestone Boulevard. It also honors veterans of all of the branches of the military through the beautiful veterans memorials in the Civic Center, and at the niche wall in the Cemetery.

There is also a memorial to the young Downey men killed in Vietnam in the plaza of the Downey Theatre.

Downey has another veteran's service group which is doing good things in our City, as well as for "at promise" students at Columbus High School. It's called "Courage Forward."

Courage Forward is a non-profit whose members are primarily veterans of the War on Terror. They are young, idealistic, enthusiastic and ambitious. The group came together initially as a social club of sorts, but with the vision and leadership of then council candidate and now Mayor Rick Rodriguez, it has evolved into a strong service group and force for good in Downey.

With the demise of Hollydale American Legion Post 723 and the declining membership of Downey American Legion Post 270, Courage Forward has an opportunity to join forces with these service groups to make them stronger.

Military combatants have a credo they are all willing to die for: "No one left behind" on the battlefield.

I pray and hope that members of the American Legion in Downey aren't left behind.

Brian Heyman is a United States Air Force veteran and member of American Legion Post 270.

New traffic laws for 2019

Contributed by the California Highway Patrol

SACRAMENTO – New laws approved by the California Legislature in 2018 will affect roadway safety in several ways, including helmet use on bicycles and motorized scooters, hit-and-run on bicycle paths, modified exhaust systems, and enhanced safety for refuse collection vehicles.

To support its mission of providing the highest levels of Safety, Service, and Security, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is highlighting several of these new laws.

Bicycle hit-and-run on bike path (AB 1755, Steinorth): The provisions of the felony hit-and-run law are extended to cyclists on Class I bikeways (bike paths). Currently, in the California Vehicle Code, a driver involved in a collision resulting in death or injury to another party is required to stop at the scene. This law clarifies that the same vehicle code also applies on Class I bikeways and allows law enforcement to hold individuals accountable for reckless behavior.

Bicycle helmets (AB 3077, Caballero): Persons under age 18 not wearing a helmet on a bicycle, scooter, skateboard, or skates will receive a “fix-it” ticket. A citation is considered non-punitive and correctable if proof that the minor has completed a bicycle safety course and has a helmet that meets safety standards is presented within 120 days to the issuing law enforcement agency.

Helmets use on motorized scooters (AB 2989, Flora): Bicycle helmets are no longer required for riders of motorized scooters who are age 18 or older. Motorized scooters may operate within a Class IV bikeway as well as a Class II bikeway and on highways with speed limits up to 25 miles per hour.

Local jurisdictions may pass ordinances to allow motorized scooters on highways with speed limits up to 35 miles per hour. It is still illegal to operate a motorized scooter on a sidewalk.

Certain vehicle exhaust violations no longer correctable (AB 1824, Committee on Budget): A fine will become mandatory, not correctable, when loud motor vehicles and motorcycles are cited. Previously, a driver or motorcyclist who was cited for modified or excessively loud exhaust or muffler systems could correct the violation to avoid a fine.

Passing waste service vehicles (AB 2115, Santiago): When approaching or overtaking a refuse collection vehicle with its amber lights flashing, drivers must move into an adjacent lane, if possible, and pass at a safe distance. If it is not possible, drivers must slow to a safe and reasonable speed. This law provides a safety margin for sanitation workers while they are actively working.

Downey's new leaders take oaths of office

DOWNEY – It was a busy night in Downey on Tuesday as three officials – two new and one returning – were sworn into office with another saying goodbye.

Current Mayor Sean Ashton and newcomer Claudia Frometa took their oaths in front of a packed council chambers, officially beginning their four-year terms.

Ashton returns to office after being initially elected in November of 2014. He retained his seat after running unopposed to represent District 2 last month.

“I’m truly honored to be here tonight to represent the city of Downey for another four years,” said Ashton. “When I thought about this a little over four years ago, I literally just wanted to fix the roads, but it’s so much more than that...I look forward to serving you for the next four years as council member.”

Ashton’s first run as mayor will end Thursday when Rick Rodriguez is sworn in as mayor for 2019. Rodriguez – who has served as mayor pro tem this year – was unanimously voted as the city’s next mayor at a city council meeting last month.

All eyes are now on Claudia Frometa as she steps in to replace Fernando Vasquez as representative for District 4.

Frometa seemed ready and anxious to take to the task as she addressed the audience.

“I am humbled to be here. I am honored to have been elected as a council member representing District 4,” she said. “While I feel that I have big shoes to fill, I want to express to you my commitment to continue to be that bridge builder. We are living in volatile and difficult, challenging political times…here at the local level we must stand together regardless of party affiliation and work together to make our community a better community.”

“Downey has been the shining light for communities around us and for our region, and we still have work to do,” Frometa added. “Over the next four years, I look forward to representing our city with integrity.”

Frometa takes her seat after securing victory ahead of Carrie Uva and Tony Hernandez-Ayala.

The atmosphere in the Council Chambers had a bittersweet feel, however, as Downey said thank you and goodbye to Councilman Fernando Vasquez, whose second and final term came to a close that evening.

Vasquez had served as the District 4 representative on Council since 2010, including two stints as mayor in 2014 and 2017. He is now forced to relinquish his seat due to the two-term limit that is imposed in Downey.

Vasquez was visibly emotional as he addressed his constituents for the last time.

“Thank you for allowing this 27-year-old kid to embark on a journey of public service,” said Vasquez. “I wasn’t the typical candidate that Downey was used to seeing. I was a kid. I was a Democrat. I was Latino. The first of its kind for District 4…but when you put political party aside, I think my love for Downey is bigger than political party ideology.”

“Downey has been an amazing city. It’s done so much for me. It’s given me an opportunity to give back to the city, one that has saw me grow up [and] that gave me everything that I have.”

Just over an hour before the proceedings at City Hall, it was Giggy Perez-Saab’s moment in the spotlight, being sworn in to the previously vacated Downey Unified Board of Education District 3 seat.

Surrounded by her family, Perez-Saab stood front and center in the school board chambers as she was administered the oath of office by her husband, Councilmember Alex Saab.

“I am deeply honored by your vote of confidence,” said Perez-Saab. “This is a moment of personal honor for me, but also a deep personal responsibility and I do not take this lightly.”

“I am well aware that no one person can resolve every problem they may encounter in their service, but I can continue to build a foundation laid upon our current honorable school board.”

Perez-Saab now takes the place of previous board member Willie Gutierrez, who had served as part of the board since being elected in 2000. Gutierrez announced he was resigning from his seat in April of this year after moving to Long Beach.

Tuesday’s Board meeting was also a chance to appoint the next president for 2019, which unanimously went to Nancy Swenson. Donald LaPlante and Tod Corrin were appointed vice president and clerk respectively as well.

Film star joins Bosco in holiday classic screening

DOWNEY - To help celebrate the holidays, St. John Bosco High School recently held a screening of a beloved holiday classic, including a special appearance by one of the film’s stars.

It’s been 72 years since Carol Coombs shared the big screen with James Stewart It’s a Wonderful Life.

Originally born in Toronto, Canada, Coombs, her mother, and her brother came to California looking for a way to sustain themselves in desperate times. She was just 4 years old at the time.

“My mother brought my brother and I out from Canada, and she got us in films,” said Coombs. “The reason why is because it was the [Great] Depression and we lost everything...we had to leave my father and he never did make it back out.”

Coombs, now 82, says that she had no prior inclination to get into films. It was her mother who went to a studio and asked how she could get her children into films.

“They gave us the name of a wonderful who handled mostly children,” said Coombs. “That got us started.”

Coombs appeared in 24 films between 1941 and 1958, mostly in minor roles.

Her first film was an uncredited part in 1941’s Blossoms in the Dust. She was around 10 years old when she landed the role of eldest daughter Janie in It’s a Wonderful Life, which released in 1946.

“It was really exciting because I was part of a family again,” said Coombs. “We had left Canada, left my father. All of a sudden you get this part in a picture and you’re going to have a brother and sisters. That was so exciting.”

“Every time I got a part in a picture, I knew that it helped us…I was blessed that way.”

Coombs says that It’s a Wonderful Life didn’t do so well upon its first release.

“That’s what we’ve heard; that it wasn’t popular very much at first,” said Coombs.

She had no idea the holiday classic that it would become.

“Oh, heavens no, not at all,” said Coombs. “You’re hired, you’ve got the script. You learn that and you do your best, but you don’t know the whole picture of it all. Nothing. But when it came out, wow, what a wonderful movie. We were so thrilled.”

She retired from acting after marrying her husband Chet Mueller. The couple has been married for 62 years, and have three children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Coombs says it is a “blessing” to see It’s a Wonderful Life still enjoyed all these years later.

“It was a beautiful film [with] a wonderful director. It was done so well,” said Coombs. “The children that were in it as a family are still good friends. We don’t live close together but we’re still god friends.”

Coombs described the Bosco screening as a “real privilege.”

“Perhaps a lot of these kids wouldn’t have seen it,” said Coombs. “There’s so many good lessons in the film.”

She hopes that future generations will continue to get the true message of the film.

“The blessing of the family. Sticking together through thick and thin,” said Coombs. “Every life is important.”

Mental health workers strike outside of Kaiser

DOWNEY - Mental health workers from Kaiser Permanente took to the streets outside the hospital with protest signs in hand on Tuesday, claiming under-staffing issues at Kaiser facilities were affecting patient care.

According to the National Union of Healthcare Workers – the union currently involved in a labor dispute with the HMO – patients are forced to wait upwards of a month or more for therapy appointments.

The two sides have been in contract negotiations since June, ABC reports.

The strike in Downey is just one of a hundred currently taking place across California, which began on Monday and includes over 4000 employees.

In a statement, Kaiser refuted many of the union’s claims, saying,

“We are disappointed the leadership of the National Union of Healthcare Workers would ask our highly valued mental health staff to go out on strike, when we’ve been in active negotiations since the summer, having met in 16 bargaining sessions over 5 months, and with two more bargaining sessions scheduled for next week.

“The union’s principal demands at the bargaining table have not been about improving care and access, but are about gaining even higher wages and benefits and demanding changes to performance standards that would reduce, not increase, the availability of mental health care for our members.”

It also adds that the hospital has increased the number of therapists on staff by 30 percent since 2015, and invested more than $175 million to build new care sites and refurbish others.

The statement also took a shot right back at the NUHW, saying,

“It’s particularly disheartening that the union leadership would call this strike during the holiday season, when many of our patients with mental health needs may be at their most vulnerable. Even worse, we have just learned that the union is using pressure tactics on community-based caregivers to refuse to treat Kaiser Permanente patients during the strike. This is irresponsible and dangerously insensitive to the needs of people who find themselves in need of mental health care services during the week of December 10.”

According to Kaiser, the current proposal to Union workers offers guaranteed wage increases, and that the recently concluded contract also included three years of guaranteed wage increases, as well as bonuses.

Kaiser remained operational throughout the strike.

This is only the latest in a string protests that have plagued Kaiser since members of the Service Employees International Union Healthcare Workers picketed in February of this year, pushing back on the consortium’s decision to outsource over 61 jobs.

Those protests traveled to city hall in April, and most recently resulted in the arrest of 13 individuals on Labor Day.

Pop singer Cooper Phillip added to Downey Christmas concert

DOWNEY – Pop artist Cooper Phillip will perform Sunday as part of the “It’s Christmas in Downey” show at the Downey Theatre.

Born in Russia to a family of classical musicians, her early years were shaped being raised by her grandmother and aunt while her mother, a master violin player, toured around the world with various symphonies.

This separation led Cooper to take comfort in music at an early age where she was mesmerized by the vocal syslings of Ella Fitzgerald.

At age 12, Cooper permanently went to live with her mother. Her mom soon realized her daughter had a gift and enrolled her in the prestigious Moscow State Classical Academy where she studied classical piano, theory, harp, jazz, blues, ballet and voice.

Cooper Phillip

It was Cooper’s vocal teacher who introduced her to the music of Mariah Carey. Cooper was obsessed.

“I would just listen to her for hours upon hours,” Cooper said.

She began singing every day, taking in the sounds of Barbra Streisand and studying a wide range of artists. She began winning singing competitions and, at age 17, moved to New York to pursue a career in music.

With barely a dollar to her name, Cooper worked and hustled, singing at weddings and in clubs and sleeping in the storeroom of a restaurant where she sang.

After a few years of living in New York, Cooper accepted a singing gig in Los Angeles and never looked back. She eventually released her debut album, “Walk A Mile,” which tells her story of lost love and pain in soul-filled songs like “Black Box,” “Tough Love” and her single, “Silence.”

Cooper was a featured participate in last week’s Downey Christmas Parade.

Tickets to see Cooper in “It’s Christmas in Downey” can be purchased online on the Downey Theatre website. Use the promo code “MAYORRICK” for a 20% discount.

Man arrested for threatening to shoot wife at her Downey job

DOWNEY — A Whittier man was arrested Tuesday after he threatened to shoot his wife at her Downey place of employment, authorities said.

The suspect, Jimmy Salcido, allegedly called Downey police dispatchers at 2:22 p.m. and said he was going to shoot his wife, who works in Downey.

Authorities did not identify the wife’s workplace.

Whittier police officers, including SWAT, responded to Salcido’s home and arrested him on charges of making criminal threats.

Police said Salcido had called his wife and threatened her several times Tuesday.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call Detective Jason Estrada at (562) 904-2332.

Curriculum shift, closure among options for Carpenter Elementary enrollment woes

As it faces declining enrollment, Downey Unified School District has began discussing significant changes to Carpenter Elementary School in an attempt to avoid a school closure.

At October’s State of the Schools address, Superintendent John Garcia noted that schools region and state-wide are all facing enrollment shifts as families continue to have less children and move farther inland.

Discussions on how to combat declining enrollment in Downey have been taking place since the summer, with the district even upping marketing efforts to draw new students to the district.

Specifically, Carpenter Elementary School currently has the lowest enrollment numbers in the District with a little over 400 students.

According to DUSD Public Relations Coordinator Ashley Greaney, the District is trying to avoid having to close down a school but admitted there are “lots of things on the table.”

She says that the District has been talking to staff since the beginning of the year, and wants to talk to the community and get feedback before moving forward on any position.

Greaney did, however, confirm that one potential option was to transition Carpenter to a dual immersion / international baccalaureate school.

Should that change take place, it would start with the T-K and Kindergarten classes next year and grow with those students. Those currently enrolled would finish their normal curriculum.

Curriculum would then be 90 percent Spanish and 10 percent English, said Greaney. While some training would need to take place for teachers and staff, Greaney explained that most teachers already possess Bilingual, Cross-cultural, Language and Academic Development (BCLAD) credentials.

Carpenter Elementary currently schools only 4th and 5th grades and is fed into by Alameda, Imperial, and Ward Elementary Schools, which teach up to grade three.

Greaney added that the discussions at the three elementary schools that would be impacted by a change at Carpenter would take place later this week.

The information got somewhat lost in translation when a Facebook post suggesting the closure of one or more Downey schools was posted on the community-run Positively Downey page Monday morning.

The post, made by Downey resident and group member Kathleen Gargas, said,

“School board meeting is tomorrow night. Parents did you know that they’re closing Sussman Middle School??”

In a later comment, Gargas said that she first heard of the possible closing from a school employee.

Gargas, a retired Special Education assistant who still occasionally substitutes, declined to be interviewed.

Another group member, Katie Callahan Wright, also made a post surrounding the controversy, however in an attempt to correct Gargas’s information.

Wright’s post read,

“Sussman Middle School is not closing. The plan currently is for Carpenter possibly to become a dual immersion Spanish magnet school beginning with T-K and Kinder students. This year’s 4th graders will be able to continue there next year in their regular program. Enrollment at the elementary schools south of Imperial Hwy is down significantly. The District is exploring ways to recruit more students.  More students = $$ = programs and teachers. If your school has a scheduled meeting this week, go to it.”

Wright says that she sits on the District Parent Advisory Committee, and that the committee was recently addressed on the subject by Garcia.

On Tuesday, the School Board will also discuss the potential addition of a high school, however this is just a discussion and there will be no vote – nor decision – on how to proceed on the enrollment issue.

Greaney said that the District hopes to come to an answer by January.

Downey Library volunteers thanked with brunch

“Volunteers make the library what it is,” said Claudia Daley, literacy coordinator who heads the Children’s Room as well as supervises the volunteer programs at the Downey City Library.

She’s usually right, but this time Claudia was wrong: she is what makes the library what it is, a warm and welcoming community center. Just ask anyone who is involved, for example, in the Adult Literacy Tutoring Program, teaching adults to read, often in a second language. Claudia trains the volunteers for six weeks in phonetics, before they meet their pupils.

Some of these volunteers have been tutoring for years, and that means a serious commitment of time on a regular basis every week.

Claudia is not only a super librarian but – and this may be a well-kept secret until now - she also loves to give parties, and cooks and bakes the refreshments as well. Her nephews and nieces look forward to holidays when Aunt Claudia makes their favorite lemon bars, brownies, berry tarts and coconut-chocolate balls.

Every December Claudia hosts an elegant brunch in appreciation of the women and men who offer their time and services for the many volunteer programs that the library provides for the community’s citizens. She also hosts a spring Recognition Luncheon at Rio Hondo Event Center, to show the city’s appreciation of the library volunteers.

For today’s festivities, Claudia had chosen small 2019 date books as gifts, and wrapped them herself in silver foil tied with a holly-pink ribbon. The pocket-size books will serve as a memento of today’s fellowship.

A real camaraderie exists between the volunteers, and friendships have sprung up simply because the library offers the chance to cross life paths with someone one might never otherwise have met.

To be included in this group does not take money or connections or special experience, though many are former teachers. It does call for an ongoing commitment to serve and donate time and effort.

Volunteers run the Friends of the Library Bookstore, for example, another of the core programs, which earns big dollars every year through the sale of gently used donated books and magazines, new greeting cards and writing supplies. The income supplies and build more volunteer programs. New volunteers are always needed, and welcomed, young adults as well as retirees.

Friend’s Store patrons, members of the general public that is, are free to take as long as they like browsing the shelves, occasionally asking for guidance. The volunteer on duty explains that the inventory depends entirely on what has been donated, and if anyone wants a more complete selection or a specific book, they are directed to the regular collection. Library cards are issued right up till 15 minutes before closing time.

Friends also put on a yearly bazaar in November, with home-baked goods and gently used items donated by the members. A monthly silent auction is conducted through the Friends Room, and brings in income from mint condition special interest books like vintage car collections, country music, or celebrity biographies, that are displayed in the lobby vitrines.

A popular new Friends Room item is a plastic “mix and match” bag. For $5, the purchaser can fill, even cram the bag with as many books as they can, from a specially designated table.

Backing up the men and women who work with the public at the Friends Room on their two-hour shifts, every day of the week from 10 am till 8 pm when the library closes, are more workers in the “back room,” who originally take in the donated books. They clean them, price them, and shake them to be sure no one left a $20 bill in the pages. It has happened.

Contrary to popular belief, donations should be put in the white mailbox in the entrance lobby, not in the Friends Books Sales room. The Friends personnel will then make out a tax receipt for the donation. Gently used books and magazines are sold there, along with greeting cards and writing supplies. The result of one person’s down-sizing may be another person’s treasure.

The library even has a talented artist who creates original sponge-art paper bags for purchases. Children love to choose their own, which are free with even a 25 cent book purchase. What an introduction to the riches of color and form. Insider tip: anything with cats is a favorite. Other perennial best sellers are chocolate bars and lollipops, but “not to be eaten in the library.”

Right outside the Friend’s Book Store Room, tutors and their charges can be found at the round tables, sitting and working together.

Photo by Pam Lane/DowneyDailyPhotos.com

What will become of these and the many other functions that the volunteers help with, when the library closes next March for 18 months revamping? “We are planning ways to keep our meetings and classes and tutoring going,” Claudia says, “using other city facilities and helpful local organizations.” But the next holiday brunch like this one for volunteers will probably not occur until 2020.

What about the library employees, how will they weather the 18 month shut-down of the physical plant?

“We have over 100,000 books in our collection,” said Claudia, “that have to be re-filed under the new system we will be using. There is enough work to keep everyone on staff busy. Every book has to be re-catalogued, and staff has to be trained in the new methodology. No one has been let go or laid off.”

After the delectable buffet in the Computer Room, which served as social headquarters, Claudia introduced Benjamin Dickow, himself a volunteer in Downey Kiwanis, who has added the role of Acting Head Librarian to his responsibilities at the City of Downey’s Columbia Memorial Space Center.

Ben had a colorful slide program to show how the “new” library will look (same building). The front entry will be widened and both it and interior partitions will have walls of glass. Classrooms and meeting rooms as well as the large reading rooms will have an open, inviting feeling. The computer room will be bigger too.

“We decreased some of the ‘back room’ space, the interior work and storage areas,” Ben said. “There will be more restrooms too,” and this drew a cheer from the assembled volunteers.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you so much,” said Ben, as he applauded the 80 or so who came to the library on a bright Saturday morning to start the holiday season. And then the applause turned to the one who is the heart of the endeavor, Claudia Daley.

She gives so much of herself to the programs, and she too is a volunteer extraordinaire.

Downey at Christmastime in the '50s and '60s

Thinking back, there were some lavish Christmas decorations in the city of Downey during the 1950s-60s.

Undated photo of the Christmas tree at the old Downey city hall. Photo courtesy Larry Latimer/Downey Historical Society

Not every year was a glamorous year, the region had some recessions, mini-electrical utility brownouts, so there was minimum Christmas decorations during those dips, plus some years we had very bad storms, and Christmas decorations displayed outdoors were thrashed or destroyed by weather elements or vandalism.

Theft and vandalism was ramped up by layoffs from South Gate’s General Motors plant and Downey Rockwell, which caused mini–economic recessions in Downey. But then those special holiday years, (in between) Downey was home to one of the most decorated towns.

Sometimes Christmas parades on Firestone Boulevard and Downey Avenue were good, sometimes not so good. Why? The city had very low visibility fog banks, which made it hard to see, plus Downey also had flooding streets when it rained. Many parts of the city were serviced by open ditches with no curbs or gutters.

I also attended the Christmas parades in Huntington Park and Los Angeles during that era. Remember, Downey still had many old orange groves, and they were hit hard by killing frosts and smudge pots, so being outside to attend Christmas lane parades was only a marginal discomfort. Smudge pots burning made for poor air quality and very sooty and oily-smelling air.

Some years we had so much rain, city parks were under water because of poor drainage. My parents’ backyard garden could be very wet and boggy, if we had foot of rain in a week. I do remember standing in rain water, wearing oversized fishing boots, trying to keep dry and still see parades pass by.

Flooding at Firestone Boulevard and La Reina Avenue in the 1950’s. Photo courtesy Larry Latimer/Downey Historical Society

I distinctly remember the outdoor Christmas train set very well, that was off of Old River School Road near Rio Flora Place, just north of Firestone Boulevard. Many residents who moved from Downey to Greater Dairy Valley, Calif., remember this private front yard Christmas train display. Located a few blocks northwest of Harvey Broiler Drive- In, the train was built by a 50’s circa engineer and displayed daily in the front yard of the wide ranch home by Rio Hondo Golf Course.

For security, at night time, the train was wheeled in to the garage for safekeeping by the owner. It was on display for more than four decades, with animated train personnel working inside the train cars. The train was in pristine condition.

Then there was the big, white 16-ft. tall white fiberglass animated snowman, near Luxor and Rives. It sat in the front yards of one of the founders of Tupperware. The front yard was a winter snow yard, with fiberglass sheathing covering the dichondra grass. It looked like a scene out of Alaska.

Many homes in north Downey had outdoor nativity manger scenes in their front yard, accented with electricity-sucking flood lights, hay and big, old-fashioned size Christmas lights. Then residents starting importing tropical plants, so orthodox manger scenes were accented with palm fronds. Palms and yuccas were sprouting everywhere in the city. Christmas azaleas/ camellias were blooming too.

I do remember there were numerous 40’s-50’s circa ranch homes that converted their living room windows to huge bay windows (floor to ceiling) and there would be an indoor Santa Claus, standing and waving in the window. Santa was located indoors to protect it from the storms. Colorful sprayed Christmas trees (many pink flocked trees) were on display in the front living room windows, along with revolving aluminum Christmas trees, with an electronic rotor color wheel shining up on the Christmas trees. Many homes had to put up two Christmas trees, one at Thanksgiving, followed by another before Christmas Day, and that one was up until Jan. 6, the Feast of Epiphany.. Back then, trees were seldom preserved in water pails, so they dried out quickly.

Wow, I remember many houses had their shake shingle roofs, their frames outlined with Christmas lights. Some had spun fiberglass white sheathing, so an underlayment of Christmas lights shined through the fiberglass to resemble snow sitting on top of Christmas lights..

Probably one of the most spectacular Christmas displays was at the former estate of Karen and Richard Carpenter's parents’ home on Newville in northeast Downey. The home was not only lavishly decorated on the outside, it was decorated inside too. Many times, they took us on a tour of their backyard and interior of the house to see all the decorations.

Photo courtesy Downey Historical Society

I bet the property had least 1,000 outdoor Christmas decorations. The home was spread over multiple lots on one of the newer custom tracts for north Downey homes. My parents almost purchased one of them. That street was bumper to bumper, gridlocked with cars during holidays in order to personally view the Carpenters’ spread and hear the neighbors’ gigantic waterfalls and streams.

Then there was the story book decorated home with Rossmoor wannabe architecture near the intersection of Firestone/ Lakewood where the original McDonald's still stands. We had to park our car and walk around to look inside the house and the garage and see all the elaborate Christmas Village gnomes scenes. Many times they served us a warm drink and cookies. My polio cousin. lived near this home; she spent hours at the poor farm, AKA Rancho Los Amigos Medical Center..

I definitely would say the homes north of Firestone were more overly-decorated compared to the homes south of Firestone. It was simple: economics were different, plus larger homes and lot sizes. North Downey was home to celebrities, judges, attorneys and doctors.

Brookmill Street on the westside of Rives was a heavily decorated village of custom homes. One home was owned by the Butler Brothers Furniture and they always had a nice display in the windows. Famous Guy Lombardo played his orchestra a few times on Brookmill for New Years.

Another home was owned by Weinman Department Store in Huntington Park. Many homes on this private street had circular driveways. Another Lavish multi- acre estate was the former owner of Grain/Feed supplies out of Norwalk. Many Hollywood celebs were entertained at that home. It was a completely private, guarded estate.

Many times we went to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church to visit the outdoor nativity scene. At that time, midnight mass was considered illegal.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in the 1950s. Photo courtesy Larry Latimer/Downey Historical Society

Probably one of the most spectacular holiday remembrances was cruising Harvey's Broiler Drive-In in the late fifties early sixties, in a Chevrolet Impala. It would take us over one hour of waiting in the streets behind the northside of Harvey's Broiler to get into the car hop, and we would stage our cars up and down 2nd Street and 3rd Street and look into all the beautiful decorated living room bay windows.

Across the street from Harvey's Broiler was Nowlings Oldsmobile, which always had a lavishly painted and decorated showroom. I remember cruising Harveys and looking out at Old’s Toronado and 98’s. To the east of that was the elegant white glove Regency restaurant, which was kind of a formal Italian building from yesteryears.

Photo courtesy Larry Latimer/Downey Historical Society

The parking lot at Harvey's Broiler was much larger back then compared to today and it was the home to Riely’s Public outdoor swimming pool. I remember seeing teenage skinny dippers from the Harvey’s parking lot, hop the wall and go for a swim.

Cars that cruised to Harvey’s had front grille wreaths, antlers on the roof and Christmas clad rear view mirror muffs dangling from the optional front window mirrors. Car hydraulics were just starting to come to market. Car hop cruising began after supper hour and ended at midnight. Glasspack tail pipes were all the rage! Cars were over painted with metal flake candy colors and side panels of flames. Tuck ‘n roll interiors were replacing the standard vinyl seats from the factory.

Shops at Stonewood Mall had coloring cartoon contests, with winners awarded free turkeys. One year, we won a free Sony TV from Ferndale’s Landscape Nursery after purchasing a Christmas tree. Christmas trees were shipped via railroad to LA and then trucked via 18 wheelers out to the suburbs. Stonewood back then was outdoor mall. Store window fronts were lavishly decorated in the holiday mood, many storefront windows advertising grand prize winning contests for their holiday visual shout out to shoppers. It was in vogue to display real fur pieces and safe to have expensive jewelry on mannequins. Thefts was very uncommon!

A 1946 advertisement in the Downey LiveWire newspaper. Photo courtesy Larry Latimer/Downey Historical Society

At Savon Drug Store on Florence, traffic was a mile long, with shoppers waiting to purchase Christmas toys and free gift wrapping. Toys and presents were stacked to the ceiling, back then it was legal with no building code restrictions.

The heart of outdoor Christmas decorations was north of Firestone, both sides of Rives, up to Florence. Then the neighborhoods over by the Carpenters’ grand estate were lavishly decorated too, north of Florence, on both sides of Lakewood Boulevard. Many times, crowds were so large in length that traffic poured out on to Florence.

Christmas trees in the 1950s-60s were much different than today. No farm grown, cultured Christmas trees, they were all natural, mostly Douglas fir and they were rather thin, and a lot of them needed trimming. Also, a different variety of more larger commercial Christmas trees called Knob Cone Pine Trees had a very long pine needle, maybe 6 or 8 inches in length, for flocking and commercial displays. There was very little noble fir or silver tip Christmas trees available during that time.

Sizes of trees were shorter during that era; there were not very many homes that had cathedral ceilings except businesses. The cost of Christmas tree was between $5-$10, some were as cheap as $1.99. There was a few artificial Christmas trees, but most of the artificial Christmas trees were aluminum. Tree garland was starting to make its debut, replacing hanging tinsel, no mini lights yet had been marketed. Popcorn ball globes were popular, plus kinetic moving tree ornaments, which moved while hung over lights in the tree. Boys Town wreaths were just barely coming into market. Fresh fruit attached to the said wreaths were eaten by critters, since many neighborhoods in Downey were still surrounded by old citrus groves from farms.

Some of the homes were Jewish decorated, they had a nice display of blue or blue/ white Christmas lights, plus the 6-sided star of David .

Downey decorated for Christmas in 1951. Photo courtesy Larry Latimer/Downey Historical Society

After Dec. 26, many north Downey families traveled to Hawaii between Christmas and New Years. Homes did not have light timers, so they relied on keeping lights on for 24 hours a day or neighbors helped turn them on/off.

Blooming poinsettias were starting to make their debut from Mexico, bringing in holiday cheer; there were no cyclamen. Flowers were scarce over holidays because of the Rose Parade . My cousins got married on Jan. 6 because churches and homes still were decorated with holiday cheer and weddings used rebooted flowers left over from the holidays.

No matter if the families were rich or poor, mommies and daughters always did a lot of holiday baking. If not they relied on the mobile Helms Bakery truck vendors to purchase gingerbread cookies and holiday jelly rolls. Fruit cakes were awesome, full of Palm Springs dates, varnished with thick liquors. Wines were still far and few between, families drank hard liquors: gin, vodka, bourbon; thick, syrupy liquors.

Most turkeys, ducks and geese were freshly purchased from meat market lockers because home refrigerator freezers were small and would not fit turkey. There were no such things as turkey pop-up temperature gauges. Booze holiday decanters were the rage and still can be purchased at antique stores for huge bucks today. In the 1950’s, dishwashers were just being introduced as a mobile roll-up unit, hooked up to the sinks. Some countertops were stainless steel, never marble nor granite. Most homes had two-tone colored traditional tiles.

A parade on Downey Avenue between Firestone Boulevard and 2nd St. Photo courtesy Larry Latimer/Downey Historical Society

Downey churches provided roaming door to door singing chorals, which were roaming carolers. Since most homes only had black and white TVs and AM radios, the mobile chorals provided the closest thing to stereo singers or holiday cheers. Few homes had pianos back then and even fewer had organs. Performing arts was just being seeded.

Not all Christmases were filled with celebration; the city had some raw bah-humbugs Christmases too. Some homes caught fire because of faulty electrical wires, no circuit auto-breakers, no GFI and because of non-permitted forced air heating units incorrectly installed. Christmas trees caught on fire because of the old fashioned 110 lights causing fire explosions. One of my neighbor’s homes did catch on fire, on Christmas Eve; daddy burned to death as the Christmas tree exploded next to him. The family lived near the intersection of Luxor/Horton.

There were also many motor vehicle accidents during the holidays. If the people were employed, they got off from their job a few hours early on Christmas Eve and were given gifts of liquor, a vogue Christmas gift. They got drunk and had motor vehicle accidents over Christmas Eve.

Also there was a lot of kitchen fires over Christmas time because we didn't have the modern stove and built-in ovens nor microwaves, so there was a lot of flash fires on the stove. Bottled milk spoiled very easily during that era as refrigerators were not very good, and we relied on milk deliveries daily. The milkman delivered the glass bottled milk through the metal milk doors off the kitchen/laundry room. Rotten and perishable goods were not thrown into the garbage disposals (not invented yet) so cooking waste was thrown in a side-door delivery pails for twice-weekly pick up services.

Many traditional brick fireplaces in Downey leaked, because they didn't have the money to rebuild the fireplaces from the earthquakes, so it was not uncommon to have smoke filled interiors. From the ‘40s to ‘60s, the entire country was rebuilding from WWI and WWII.

Silver Saddle, Pink Pancake Parasol, Kings Imperial, Del Mar, Grand Prix, Memory House, Regency were all packed restaurants in Downey during the holidays. Serving steak and lobster feasts, along with tableside gimlet martini drinks. Dinner and wine was not very popular and beer was more blue collar.

Granada Pizza, in their, 3-wheel carts, could be seen delivering their store goods to front doors. Pizza was form for holiday hors d’oeurvers. That era of socializing really filled with red meat eaters.

During my early times, Downey was a very decanted city to be born in to. It was city, with many transplants from Europe and Midwest USA.

Jim McMahon is a longtime Downey resident.

Warren High wins first eSports gaming tournament

DOWNEY – Warren High School won the Overwatch Downey Unified High School eSports Tournament on Tuesday, the first-of-its-kind video game competition ever held in Los Angeles County.

Warren defeated Downey in the finals, which were played in front of a live audience at the Downey Theatre. The finale was the culmination of a six-week program where students formed 7-member teams and competed against other teams within each school.

Ten teams from Downey High and eight teams from Warren High competed in the tournament.

Held in partnership with the Carrot Group, the tournament was part of Downey Unified’s MADE Initiative, a college and career readiness program headed by director John Harris. The goal of MADE is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to achieve their post-secondary educational and career goals.

“We are thrilled for Warren High School and proud of how the students worked hard during the season and came together as a team to win,” said Harris.

“This tournament embodies everything we are trying to do with our students to align with our district’s vision to ensure they are college and career ready, globally competitive, and citizens of strong character. We are proud to bring innovative programs such as this one to help our students learn and grow.”

Downey Unified positioned the tournament to show students how their interest in video games could turn into prospective career opportunities, while addressing a positive approach to healthy competition including teamwork, leadership, resilience, and problem-solving.

This Tournament showed students how their interest in video gaming could turn into prospective career opportunities within science, technology, arts, engineering, and math (STEAM) fields, all while addressing a positive approach to healthy competition including teamwork, leadership, resilience, and problem solving.

All participating students attended a facilitated on-campus Workforce Development session from educational partners: UCode, Positive Coaching Alliance, West Hills College Coalinga, and leading game designers. Participating students are also eligible to enroll in two free online Game Design courses, each worth three graded college credits, offered by West Hills College Coalinga starting in January 2019.

Each member of the winning team received a grand prize package including video gaming accessories from SteelSeries, a meeting with leading game designers, and all-expenses paid trip to a one-week game design bootcamp where they are each eligible to receive an additional two graded college credits on their college transcript.

Additionally, Warren High received a trophy and a $1,000 gift certificate towards computer supplies.

Competing for Warren were Adrian Bermejo, Allen Bermejo, Vianni Richards, John Terry, Jacob Mexia, Caleb Villanueva and Vincent Scala.

The Bears were coached by David Quintero.

Competing for Downey were Adam Bhulyan, Omar Aguilar, Daniel Valdez, Michael Pasaye, Bryan Skorka, Adrian Caballero and Jose Cisneros.

The Vikings were coached by David Kraus.

Dean Milligan sworn-in as Downey police chief

DOWNEY – Former police captain Dean Milligan was officially sworn in as Downey’s 11th police chief in front of a crowded City Hall chamber Wednesday morning.

Milligan has served as part of Downey’s Police Department since 1994, working several assignments and moving up the ranks before being promoted to captain in December of 2012. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from the University of Laverne and a Master’s Degree in Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego.

He now takes over for Chief Carl Charles, whose retirement became effective Wednesday.

Charles said that he “couldn’t have asked for a more hard-working, conscientious, and loyal second-in-command.”

“For the past six years, Dean played a critical role in implementing a host of community-based programs and services,” said Charles. “Through it all, Dean has been a confidant, an advisor, and a true friend. It is my supreme confidence in his ability that led me to choose this point in time to retire.

“I am absolutely certain that Dean is the right person to lead this department into the future with an ever-changing law enforcement landscape.”

Milligan was sworn in by former Downey Police Chief Greg Caldwell. His wife, Theresa, held a bible as he took his oath.

After taking his oath, Milligan addressed the audience.

“With this chief’s office comes tremendous responsibilities. It is a great honor that I am humbled by and I do not take it lightly,” said Milligan.

“I offer you my commitment. We will be tough on crime and diligent in providing for your safety while being responsive to your concerns. We will always strive to be respectful while being an open, accountable, and transparent agency.”

Milligan also asked for the cooperation of the community.

“We need your leadership as well as your understanding with regard to what we can and cannot do. While we will always be your first line of defense, we unfortunately are not the answer to every problem.”

“It is my hope that in the event of a critical incident, you will be willing to suspend judgement until all the facts are in. Safe neighborhoods are the results of residents and their police department working together to create them…please know that the Downey Police Department is committed to working with you to make this community a safe and secure place to live and that we will continuously strive to maintain your trust”

Police Chief Dean Milligan and former Police Chief Carl Charles. Photo by Alex Dominguez

Milligan’s speech included a wide range of thanks – directed to everyone from City Council and staff to friends, loved ones and his family – as well as a few direct words to the police department staff and officers that he now will lead.

“You should feel very proud of the job you do each day. It’s my hope that when you end your shift and head for the safety of your home you will truly believe that what you did today mattered,” said Milligan. “I commit myself to ensure that you are properly equipped and supervised, as well as being supported entirely.

“Serving as a police officer today means facing adversity and overcoming increasing challenges. We ask more of our officers on the street today than any time in history.

“Policing is about much more than simply investigating crime and arresting those who do harm; it’s providing council to families in distress, it’s getting someone suffering from mental illness help, working out civil disputes between neighbors, and working with our youth in various programs…

“I know that you all don your respective uniforms every day because you’ve chosen to help people and give back to the community that we serve.”

Downey police chiefs in attendance Tuesday included John Finch, Carl Charles, Dean Milligan, Greg Caldwell, Rick Esteves and Roy Campos. Photo by Claudia Gomez