Maze and Carnival at New Hope Community Church

New Hope Community Church PRESENTS:

AMAZING MAZE

October 29th and October 30th at 6pm

AMAZING MAZE and CARNIVAL

October 31st at 6pm

Ther will be Food, Games and Prizes!!!!

New Hope Community Church is located at 3041 Peck Road, El Monte. (626) 442-2554

Kudos for a job WELL DONE

We would like to give Kudos to the 5 Points Rotary Club of El Monte for a very successful and fun annual spagetthi dinner yesterday that was held at the Grace T. Black Auditorium. Much needed funds were raised through ticket sales, and raffle to benefit Rotary's philanthropic projects.


Additionally, the El Monte Union High School District held it's annual COLLEGE NIGHT at the El Monte High School gymnasium. Many college and university representatives were in attendance. Special Thanks to the EMUHSD Superintendent Nick Salerno, Board of Trustees and Mrs. Margina Berg (and staff) who were instrumentally in the implementation of College Night for our students and community.

Crystal C. Chavez Speaks at "Career Day" for THINK Together Jersey Elementary Students and Parents

On October 22, 2009 I addressed students, parents and teachers at the 10th Lights On Afterschool "Career Day" at Jersey Elementary School in Sante Fe Springs. The auditorium was filled to capacity and students were really excited to be there. But most importantly, it was the parents who were in attendance which really made a difference.

It was a really inspiring to listen to the students' "When I grow up..." speeches. During my address to the audience I spoke about my passions and career, and how I got there. It was an honor to share my insight of success and dreams to the next generation.

For more information, please visit:

www.thinktogether.org and www.afterschoolalliance.org

America is too big for small dreams, so DREAM big. I know I do. So, NEVER STOP DREAMING.

Thanksgiving Fest

First Family Church will be putting on it's 5th annual Thanksgiving Fest. This annual event will provide over 3,000 free meals, live music and resources ALL for FREE.

November 22, 2009

11am

First Family Church is located at 8434 S. Greenleaf Avenue, Whittier, CA 90602

(562) 698-6737

www.firstfamilychurch.net

To find out how you can volunteer, support, or donate please call or visit the church website.

Together we can can make a world of a difference to help our neighbors during this holiday season. Lookin' forward to a great event and if you can, please volunteer or be a sponsor!

16th Annual Pancake Eating Contest and Brunch

A great event is soon approaching in the city to benefit the EM/SEM Emergency Resource Association. Your help is greatly appreciated!

16th Annual Pancake Eating Contest and Brunch

Sunday, November 1, 2009

10:30am-12:00pm

Where: Trinity Church

11804 Hemlock Street, El Monte, CA

$4 DONATION for tickets

All proceeds will got to the El Monte/South El Monte EMERGENCY RESOURCE ASSOCIATION

Make donations of any size with a check payable to Trinity Church or ERA.

ERA needs your support!

Fundraising Goal is: $10,000

Questions: Call Trinity Church at 626-448-6040 Email: trintch@earthlink.net

Help Support the Citrus College Foundation

The Citrus College Foundation's 12th Annual A Taste of Autumn fundraiser will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Oct. 4 on the Citrus College campus.


The event allows patrons to enjoy delectable dishes and fine wines while contributing to programs that directly benefit Citrus College students.

Many of the San Gabriel Valley's top restaurants and wineries will be participating. The evening will also include entertainment, an opportunity drawing, a silent auction and an art exhibit and sale by the Citrus College Art Department.

Tickets cost $75 per person if purchased prior to Sept. 28 and $80 each thereafter. For information, call the Citrus College Foundation at (626) 914-8825.

Open Mic Night at La Historia

OPEN MIC NIGHT

will be on September 24th, Thursday at La Historia Museum from 7 to 8pm.

Bring your poetry, short stories, letters, etc...to share.

La Historia is located at 3240 Tyler Avenue, El Monte. (626) 279-1954.

See you there! Support the arts!

Support the El Monte Museum!

With the economy in a slow down and the City's finances lacking, our treasured El Monte Museum is in desperate need of community support and financial backing.

I am pleased to announce that a fundraiser will be held to raise much needed funding for the El Monte Museum.

EL Monte Historical Society and Museum Fundraiser

TEXAS HOLD'EM TOURNAMENT

**Hosted By**

El Monte/South El Monte Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown El Monte Business Association

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2009

Dinner: 5:30pm ** Games: 6:30pm

NonParticipants: Dinner only $25.00

Location: VFW Hall (Don't forget to hug a veteran!)

11126 Ramona Blvd, El Monte

(next to the 99 Cent and Smar&Final Stores)

Donation: $100/Person / Rebuys: $20
Includes: Dinner-Momento-Prize

Please make checks payable to: THE EL MONTE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Donations are tax-deductible

For more information or would like to RSVP please contact:
Mike Shively (626) 201-3477
Ken Weldon (626) 705-1893
Donna Duncan (626) 443-3135
Jack Dalton (626) 483-6650

Deadline for reservations is Friday, October 23rd.


Other ways to help: DONATE A Drawing Prize, Volunteer at the Event or help spread the word about this great fundraising event for our beloved Museum!

The Crystal C. Chavez Foundation proudly supports the El Monte Historical Society and Museum.

Are you the next Ms. Friendly EM/SEM?

Applications are now available for the Ms. Friendly El Monte/South EL Monte Pagent!

You can find applications at the Student Activities Office at each of the high schools in the EMUHSD, at the El Monte Parks and Recreation Office and at the South El Monte Civic Center. The annual pagent that will be held in December of this year in South El Monte is open to girls living in the district age 17 years old on or before December 12, 2009.

The pagent is a great way to earn scholarship money for college, boost your confidence and poise, meet community leaders, officials and businesses and most importantly proudly represent the cities of El Monte and South El Monte.

So, are you the next Ms. Friendly EM/SEM?

9/11

9/11

NEVER FORGET

U.S. Census 2010

The Crystal C. Chavez Foundation is a 2010 Census Partner!

We are proud to support the 2010 Census and to help make sure that every resident in the nation is "counted in 2010"! After all, the Census is in all our hands!

The cenus is a count of everyone residing in the United States.

Census Day is April 1, 2010. With only 10 questions, the 2010 Census questionnaire is one of the shortest questionnaires in history and takes just 10 minutes to complete!


For more information about the 2010 Census, go to www.2010census.gov

U.S. Department of Education

After attending the White House Initiative on Hispanic American Educational Excellence in Rio Hondo last week I learned about a great website full of up to date information, news and resources. I'm talking about the website: www.ed.gov! Yay, I just check it out and found it to be a gem of information goodness just like the Press Release I read about below about veterans education. So please check out www.ed.gov for all your education-related needs, I know I will :-) If you have other useful sites please feel free to let me know by emailing me at: crystal@crystalcchavez.org. Have a productive day!

PRESS RELEASES

Seven Colleges Share $1.75 Million to Increase College Enrollment, Completion for Veterans

FOR RELEASE:August 25, 2009
Contact: Gregg Wiggins,Jane Glickman or Stephanie Babyak(202) 401-1576 press@ed.gov

The U.S. Education Department has awarded seven colleges $250,000 each to operate Veterans Upward Bound programs that help veterans develop academic and other skills needed to succeed in postsecondary education. The primary goal of the program is to increase the rate of enrollment and completion of postsecondary education programs.
“Offering this assistance is our responsibility and our duty to the men and women who served in our nation's military,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. “Helping them access college is good for the nation that they will continue to serve as productive and participating members of the civilian community.”
The programs will provide academic and personal counseling, mentoring and tutoring, and offer refresher courses for veterans who have not completed high school or who may be high school graduates but delayed the start of their postsecondary education to serve in our nation's military. Veterans Upward Bound programs will also assist veterans in obtaining support from sources such as the Veterans Administration, state agencies, veterans’ associations and other groups that aid veterans.

A list of grantees is provided below:
ARKANSAS:Henderson State University, Arkadelphia
ARIZONA:Yavapai County Community College, Prescott
GEORGIA:Georgia State University, Atlanta
IDAHO:Boise State University, Boise
MASSACHUSETTS:Suffolk University, Boston
MINNESOTA:Bemidji State University, Bemidji
OKLAHOMA:Redlands Community College, El Reno

Fundraiser this Saturday in El Monte to help Wounded Soldier

Fundraisers set for soldier wounded in Afghanistan

Posted: 08/24/2009 07:42:22 PM PDT (www.sgvtribune.com)
The American Legion Post 261 will host two special fundraisers on Saturday and Sunday for SPC Ryan Price, who was wounded during a mission in Afghanistan.
Price lost both legs and the funds will help build an addition to his parent's home in Nuevo, Calif., for better wheelchair access and mobility.

A steak-picado dinner fundraiser will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the Post 261 Legion Hall, 4542 Peck Road, El Monte.

Cost is a $7 donation. The dinner will also feature live entertainment from a disc jockey and Sal Cucinella, an Elvis impersonator.

Tickets are limited. Adults only and no alcohol permitted. For tickets, call Leonora Allen at (626)579-6982 or Douglas Reyes at (323) 206-8945.

A carwash will also be held from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday at Post 261. Donations will be accepted.

Remember 9/11

The eighth anniversary of 9/11 is upon and we should all take time to remember what trajedy occured on that day and how we must unite as Americans and remain strong and vigilant to protect our land and our values. Don't forget to raise your flag and hug a veteran and say "thank you" to all of our men and women in uniform.

-------Below is what I read in an email I received today...--------------

On Friday, September 11th, 2009, an American flag should be displayed outside every home, apartment, office, and store in the United States. Every individual should make it their duty to display an American flag on this eighth anniversary of one of our country's worst tragedies.

We do this to honor those who lost their lives on 9/11, their families, friends and loved ones who continue to endure the pain, and those who today are fighting at home and abroad to preserve our cherished freedoms.

In the days, weeks and months following 9/11, our country was bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the incredible losses and stood shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism. Sadly, those flags have all but disappeared. Our patriotism pulled us through some tough times and it shouldn't take another attack to galvanize us in solidarity. Our American flag is the fabric of our country and together we can prevail over terrorism of all kinds.

Man-e Moreno Foundation

Here are some pictures from Saturday's Building Better Families event at the South El Monte Civic Center. Sheriff Lee Baca gave a warming speech about faith, love, family and responsiblity. Also present were City of El Monte Mayor Pro Tem J. Gomez and City of South El Monte Councilman Joseph Gonzalez. It was a great attended event and well organized. Please check out www.man-efoundation.org to learn more about the organization and to read about Manuel Moreno. We look forward to working with like minded nonprofits in the San Gabriel Valley like the Man-e Moreno Foundation to help our youth, and in turn, help build and strengthen our families.

Learning Resource Center opening at Rio Hondo College

A 94,000 square foot, state of the art Learning Resource Center will be open this Fall when students resume classes at Rio Hondo Community College. Please read more about this new facility below from an article from the San Gabriel Valley Tribune.

Rio Hondo supporters get sneak peek of new $34 million Learning Resource Center

By Tracy Garcia, Staff Writer
Posted: 08/13/2009 08:22:16 PM PDT

WHITTIER - About a week before it opens to students, a select group of Rio Hondo College supporters got a sneak peek Thursday at its latest accomplishment in a massive campus facilities overhaul: the scenic, state-of-the-art, 94,000-square-foot Learning Resource Center.
It's been three years since the college first broke ground on the LRC, a two-story building that includes a second-floor library overlooking the San Gabriel Valley, as well as a teleconferencing lounge, media studio and classrooms. And when the majority of students return to the hilltop college for the fall semester on Aug. 24, they'll finally be able to take advantage of the $34.7 million LRC.

"This is a big, big day for Rio Hondo College," Board president Andre Quintero told dozens of special guests that included Whittier Mayor Bob Henderson, former Rio Hondo College President Rose Marie Joyce, Rep. Grace Napolitano, D-Santa Fe Springs, and well-known community leader Ruth B. Shannon.
These guests, and several others, are part of the President's Circle, a select group of supporters who have donated generously to the Rio Hondo College Foundation.
"I'm so proud to be here," Quintero said. "People worked so hard for so many years to make this place happen."
The LRC was mostly paid for with state funds, but it's one part of the college's long-term Facilities Master Plan that calls for an update of the aging campus to accommodate an expected surge in enrollment over the next few years.
Already this spring, officials said, enrollment topped 28,000 students.
Other projects in the pipeline for the college include a new Physical Education Complex, a Student Services/Student Union complex, and a rehabilitation of the college's entire Central Quad plaza and landscaping area.
They will be funded by the college's $245 million Measure A bond, which voters approved in March 2004.
Thursday's reception began with a State of the College address by President Ted Martinez Jr., performances by Rio Hondo College singers, and remarks from LRC architect David Martin.
Guests were then encouraged to take a tour through the facility, which is not yet fully furnished with books and computers, but should be ready for student use in the next couple of weeks.
In designing the LRC, Martin said several factors came into play - including the motivation for something with a strong presence on the campus' lower quad, as well as something that was in sync with the 1950s and 1960s architecture of the existing buildings.
"This building also kind of hung over the hill," Martin said. "The entire south wall is on a curve on the back end of the site

Librarian Adele Enright, right, guides a tour through the library level of the Learning Resource Center. Members and guests of the President's Circle attend a preview reception and tour of Rio Hondo College's new Learning Resource Center at the Whittier campus Aug. 13, 2009. (SGVN/Staff photo by Leo Jarzomb)- but what a great way to (showcase) the view." It's also energy-efficient, Martin said, pointing out features like motion-sensor lights and new carpeting made of recycled materials.
"It's a great moment to celebrate the completion" of a project, Martin told the crowd. "Thank you so much."
tracy.garcia@sgvn.com
(562) 698-0955, Ext. 3051

Art Exhibit Opening and Reception

NAVARRO Noir...Dames, Demons, Monsters and Masked Men, oh MY!

September 5th-October 4th

GEEKS

6747 Greenleaf Ave. Suite A

Whittier, CA. 90606

(562) 696-9393

Opening reception: Sept 5th @ 7pm

A wonderful art exhibit is schedule to open next month featuring artist, Rafael Navarro. His work will be on display at Geeks in Whittier. There will also be a reception on September 5th at 7pm, I hope you can attend and support a local, talented artist. Support the arts!

FREE EVENT this SATURDAY in S.El Monte

Free event this SATURDAY, AUGUST 15, 2009 at the South El Monte Community Center!

Time: 10am-1pm

The City of South El Monte and the Man-e Moreno Foundation along with L.A. Sheriff Lee Baca! are hosting an event this Saturday to help and promote at-risk youth to stay our of drugs, gangs and violence.

We are so glad that the city is taking a proactive approach in helping the youth of the community stay on the right path and be productive citizens. See information below from the SGV Tribune online.

Hope y'all can make it for what sure looks to be a great, family event.

Event planned in South El Monte for at-risk youth, families
From staff reports http://www.sgvtribune.com/ci_13055199
Posted: 08/13/2009 05:31:03 PM PDT


SOUTH EL MONTE - At-risk youths and their families are invited to join Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca, the City of South El Monte and the Man-e Moreno Foundation Saturday at an event designed to keep kids out of trouble.

The "Building Families For a Better Future" event and resource fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the South El Monte Community Center, 1530 Central Avenue, organizers said.
Following a panel discussion and talk by Baca, at-risk teens and their families will be invited to tour a resource fair with services such as tattoo removal, expunging of records, positive mentors and more, all geared towards keeping area youths away from drugs, gangs and violence.

City officials and community organizations from around the San Gabriel Valley are invited to attend.

Summer Concert in Whittier

Summer Concerts Offer Music Under the Stars*

The free concerts are sponsored by the Whittier Cultural Arts and Parks and Recreation commissions, Los Angeles County Supervisor, Don Knabe and the Los Angeles County Arts Commission.

Seating is festival-style and concertgoers may bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfort while they enjoy music under the stars.

This year’s concert schedule includes returning favorites, as well as several new acts.
In addition, concert goers may bring picnic suppers, or enjoy the variety of freshly-cooked food, including desserts, available for purchase by food vendors at the park.
For more information on the 2009 Summer Concerts in the Park, contact the Community Services Department at (562) 464-3350.

PARNELL PARK:

Swing August 13 – “The Beatless” – Classic Rock

**All information taken from the City of Whittier website, found at: http://www.cityofwhittier.org/

Foothill Unity Center to Distribute School Supplies to Kids

On August 20, 2009 the Foothill Unity Center will be distributing back to school supplies to students at the Santa Anita Race Track.

The Foothill Unity Center is preparing for up to 2,000 children to participate. The Center is urgently seeking donated funds to handle the increase. Just $50 provides the basics for one child. Those who prefer to purchase supplies themselves are asked to drop them off by August 12 to ensure distribution at this year's event. Checks may be mailed to Back to School Program, Foothill Unity Center, 415 West Chestnut Avenue, Monrovia, CA 91016. For further information on Back to School Distribution needs and volunteer opportunities please call the Monrovia offic at 626-358-3486 or the Pasadena Center at 626-584-7420. The organization invites local businesses and groups to donate new computers, bicycles and other larges prizes to give away in a free raffle during the event.

Please help out if you can to this great charitable event that will benefit our children = our future! Remember education is our greatest economic stimulus so let's invest in our children today.

Fundraiser TONIGHT to benefit our CHILDREN!

MESSAGE FROM SUPERVISOR MICHAEL D. ANTONOVICH

Please join me, along with the Department of Children and Family Services, for the 14th Annual "All for the Love of Kids" Family Fundraiser and Awards Dinner. The event takes place on Thursday, August 6th at 6:00 p.m. at the Arboretum, 301 North Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

All of the proceeds from this benefit go to support the Family and Children's Services Trust Fund, which allocates funding for life enhancing services such as orthodontia, replacement of lost or stolen prescription glasses and clothing as well as fees for organized sports for our foster youth.

Please plan to attend what promises to be a special evening in support of a worthwhile cause. There will be a buffet dinner, live and silent auctions, great entertainment and a chance to win a Wii, 32" Flat Screen T.V. and an iPod for $1.00. Raffle tickets are on sale now!


For additional information on "All for the Love of Kids" please contact Stu Riskin at riskis@dcfs.laccounty.gov (213) 739-6202.

Crystal C. Chavez Foundation Sponsors KIDS SAFTEY DAY USA

The Crystal C. Chavez Foundation is one of the sponsors of the KIDS SAFTEY USA event taking place this SATURDAY, August 1st, 2009 from 12pm-3pm at 10423 Valley Blvd., Ste. D, El Monte.


The event is FREE, FREE, FREE, FREE! And will focus on Children's Health and Saftey.

All of the funds collected at the fundraiser will be donate to the Kids Campus Youth Center. A valuable after school program that caters to children of all ages. Turoring children in academics from kindergarten to high school seniors.

KIDS SAFTEY DAY USA

DEDICATED TO CHILDREN'S HEALTH AND SAFTEY

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1ST, 2009

12PM-3PM

10423 VALLEY BLVD., STE. E, EL MONTE

FREE: Food, games and GIVE-a-ways certificates. We're having jumpers, the fire engine on display and great prizes to be raffled out to the public.

FREE: Toys give-a-way in the first hour, so come early.

FREE: Fingerprinting, photo ID, and Dental ID in event that a child gets lost or abducted.

FREE: Information and valuable handouts on crime prevention, chid safey, health promotion...

FREE: Scoliosis screening and posture check for kids.

HOSTED BY: DIEP Chiropractic Wellness Corp.

Diamond Sponsors: Valley Health and Wellness Center, Office Depot

Gold Sponsors: TTS Technical College

Silver Sponsor: El Monte/S. El Monte Chamber of Commerce, Crystal C. Chavez Foundation

Supporting Sponsors: Vons, Credit Union Bank, Dearden's Furniture, El Monte City School District

For more information Call: (626) 575-1211

Nonprofit Spotlight: The Nixon Library!

The Richard M. Nixon Library and Birthplace Foundation is located in Yorba Linda (in Orange County). I've visited the place several times and it is a great library and museum to appreciate and learn about the Nixon Administration. They are hosting a summer program for children and families (see below) and they also have other special events and speakers throughout the year. So if you haven't been to the Nixon Library go and check it out with your friends and family...you will not be dissappointed! They have beautiful landscaping outside and you can walkthough President Nixon's house that he grew up in. And don't forget to visit the Gift Shop!

Families to meet former presidents at Richard Nixon Library

Staff Reports
Posted: 07/26/2009 07:19:15 PM PDT
(http://www.sgvtribune.com/)

Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace Foundation invites school-aged children and their families to its "Meet the Presidents" event from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Aug. 4.

The free program will feature a Theodore Roosevelt look-alike, and will continue to feature other presidents on most Tuesdays until Sept. 1.
Presidential look-alikes scheduled to appear include Thomas Jefferson on Aug. 18, Richard Nixon on Aug. 25 and Harry Truman on Sept. 1.

For more information, call (714) 993-5075 or visit www.nixonlibrary.org.

Grand Opening of Downtown Gateway Park

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Today the Mayor and El Monte City Council proudly celebrate the Grand Opening of the Downtown Gateway Park (located in the intersection of Valley Blvd and Santa Anita Avenue) in El Monte. The event was a joint effort with the American Legion Post 261 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10218.

The event took place at 9am this morning and the weather was inviting and a good showing from the public. City Manager Jim Mussenden proceeded over the morning's agenda. Remarks were made by the El Monte City Council, Deputy City Manager for Community Services Veronica Dolleschel gave project background details to those in attendance and Commander Mike Felix, VFW Post 10218 gave comments followed by remarks from Commander Larry Rodriguez, American Legion Post 261. 49th Assembly District Member Mike Eng also congratulated the city of it's Veteran's Monument and even said some encouraging words in spanish! From the County of Los Angeles Dept. of Parks and Recreation we had Program Manager Warren R. Ontiveros received a presentation from the City of El Monte.

In addition to the veteran monument grand opening it was a time of celebrating the El Monte/South El Monte Rotary Club's 100 year anniversary of Rotary Brick Project. The Rotary Club presented to the city a colorful bear statue that sits next the veteran monument. The bear is very crystallic! More details about the bear's meaning to follow. (I don't have the paper with me now). It is so refreshing to see the City of El Monte pay tribute to those men and women who valiently and courageously serve this great land we call America.

We hope and anticipate that the downtown gate way park with it's veteran monument and Rotary bear will serve to be a much needed addition to the City of El Monte and it's people. To find out more about the City of El Monte and it's future plans visit their website at: http://www.ci.el-monte.ca.us/. You can also stop by the El Monte City City Hall located at: 11333 Valley Blvd, El Monte.

Just as Assemblymember Mike Eng said: "the most important treasure [in El Monte] is the people. It is the people that makes America great". We here at the Crystal C. Chavez Foundation are confident that the Downtown Gateway Park will promote fellow El Monteans to take pride once again in their city and to remember those who have or will serve. Our people will make our city strong, our families united, and lead us to an economic recovery.

This project is made possible by:

Amigos de los Rios, El Monte Community Services Commission, Veterans and Homeless Affairs Commission, Supervisor Gloria Molina, Contractor Green Giant Landscape, Inc. and Architect: Darren Rector, Moore Lacofano Goltsman, Inc., Downtown Gateway Planning Committee, City of El Monte.

Go take a stroll at the new Downtown Gateway Park today! Take pictures with your family and reflect on the sacrifices of those serve or have served in uniform.

El Monte/South El Monte Chamber of Commerce

Today the EM/SEM Chamber of Commerce and Downtown El Monte Business Association held their annual Installation Dinner at Grace T. Black Auditorium.

Dinner was provided by Edward's Steakhouse in El Monte. Sooooo good! Guests had choice of Prime Rib or Herb Roasted Chicken. Great time with local business leaders, El Monte Council members, El Monte Union HS District Board of Education and Superintendent Salerno.

Here are some pictures from the event:

Business of the year was: Credit Union of Southern California, www.wafcu.or, El Monte location. Branch Manager Caesar Mayor (and El Monte Rotarian!) received the award. On my left is Mr. Ernest Villegas of Villegas Realty and Downtown El Monte Business Association Board Member.

The young lady pictured with the plaque is Sam's Club El Monte Store Manager, Becky Jewett. Sam's Club received the ____ Award. I don't know the exact name of award because I don't have the program with me but Sam's received a community-active business award. Please sign up for a Sam's Club membership if you have not done so already. Sam's Club is a great economic stimulator for the area and a proud sponsore of local charities, schools and sports. There store is located at: - http://www.samsclub.com/

4901 N Santa Anita Avenue, El Monte - (626) 575-0973.

Of course, the EM/SEM Queen and Court will there to support the local Chamber. Good job Girls!

The EM/SEM Chamber and DEMBA boards, respectfully, work really hard to help the community spur economic activity and help business, not to mention in supporting local charities, schools and sports. So, if you are reading this and are a business owner in EM/SEM please consider become a member of either organizations and start playing a role in shaping EM/SEM be a shining city for all of the San Gabriel Valley.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Dr. Judy Chu in winning Tuesday's election. Dr. Chu is now the new Congresswoman for the 32 Congressional District.

We wish her success in Washington, D.C. and look forward to working with her office in bettering advancing our goals in serving the youth of the San Gabriel Valley.

Special Election Day Tuesday July 14th

Please don't forget to cast your vote this Tuesday, July 14, 2009 for the Special Election for the 32 Congressional District.

To find out how you can vote or to find out if you live in the 32 congressional district, log on to www.lavote.net.

VOTE VOTE VOTE

RMHC Scholarships Winners from SGV

Five San Gabriel Valley high school seniors were among 86 Southern California recipients awarded $2,000 college scholarships from Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Southern California.
These students were recently honored at a gala event hosted by the McDonald's Operators' Association of Southern California.
Tina Ting-Nah Chen from Wilson High School, Narith Ta from Covina High School, Savannah Brown from Blair High School, Kristy Gonzalez from California High School and Randolph Miller-Taylor from Walnut High School were selected to receive an RMHC scholarship based on a number of criteria including community involvement, letters of recommendation and financial need.


(Source: San Gabriel Valley Tribune Online July 12, 2009)

Concert Under the Stars

Concert Under the Stars presented by the City of South El Monte

Every other Thursday starting at 6pm till 9pm.

Where: 1530 Central Avenue.

More information or Vendor Applications Call: 626 579 2043.

July 9th! LA IMPACT at the Community Center, 1530 Central Avenue

Free Games, Face Painting, Family Fun and Great Food!

Rockin' Wednesdays

Rockin' Wednesdays presented by the City of El Monte Community Services Department. From 5:30pm to 8:30pm joing the community at Tony Arceo Park on Tyler Avenue for fun, food, music, and games. Many community groups and services groups are selling goodies and food as fundraisers. Last night was the kickoff day for the Rockin' Wednesday summer concerts and Councilmembers Gomez, Wallach, Barrios and Ishigaki (pictured) were there to welcome the crowd. City Manager James Mussenden was there also and along with corporate sponsor representatives from Valley Vista Services, Longo Toyota, Wayne C. Clayton Foundation, etc (there are others but I don't remember names. Will find out). So mark your calendars for next week's Rockin' Wednesday concert at the Park! Don't forget to stop by the Ms. Friendly El Monte/South El Monte Pagent Association booth for pizza and say hello to the 2009-2010 Ms. Friendly Queen and Court! Thanks to the City of El Monte Council and Community Services Department for planning and executing a great family friendly event and of course a big thank you to all of the event sponsors!

2nd Annual Pancake Breakfast

El Monte City Councilman Art Barrios, Pastor Gil de La Rosa (New Hope Community Church), and Matthew Weintraub (El Monte City).

July 4, 2009

2nd Annual Pancake Breakfast presented by the City of El Monte

All proceeds benefited the El Monte Patriotic Commission. You can still make a contribution to the the Commission, stop by City Hall for more information.

Save the date for next year's event.

Thank you to the El Monte Fire Fighters, El Monte Patriotic Commission and El Monte City Staff and City Council.

Candidates for Congress Talk Green at Environmental Debate June 30

The 32nd Congressional District is in need of a Congressional Representative!!! Come hear the candidates tomorrow at a forum focused on going green and perhaps we can hear their stance on youth and education in the San Gabriel Valley!

Get INFORMED. ATTEND the Congressional Forum. Take ACTION.

VOTE on JULY 14th Special General Election for the 32nd Congressional District.
(http://www.lavote.net/ or Call (562) 466-1323 or (800) 815-2666)


Candidates vying for the only vacant seat in the United States Congress to discuss environmental issues, health care reform, the economy and green jobs at the Monterey Park Library, Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at 6:30 p.m

Judy Chu (D), Betty Tom Chu (R), and Christopher Agrella (L) ambitiously hopes to clench the hot seat at a special election on July 14 in the Thirty-Second Congressional District of California.
Charlene Brown, Editor, Lookin’ Green Magazine and Allen Shay, President, Shay & Associates will moderate the forum. A list of topics exploring the course of action each candidate might take to save our planet from decades of environmental neglect is available for review online at www.lookingreen.org/greendebate.


Co-hosts of the June 30 green forum include Lookin’ Green Magazine, Shay & Associates, eWaste4U, West Valley Journal, Tosoti.com, Green Top 40, Sun Proof, iLight The World, DreamMission, SGV Journal, and the Monterey Park Chamber of Commerce.


The forum will be held Tuesday, June 30, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Memorial Library, 318 S. Ramona Ave., Monterey Park, CA 91754.



Lookin' Green, a non-profit community organization, takes no political position neither seeks to endorse any candidate.


For more information, contact Charlene Brown at 626-200-6722 or visit http://www.lookingreen.org/.



***For the Record: The Crystal C. Chavez Foundation does not endorse any candidate seeking political office or political party. ***

4th Annual Cash for College Scholarship Awards Reception

Please support this great event sponsored by the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce. Support our youth as they strive to better their lives through higher education. Help make their dreams a reality!


The Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, State Farm, and the Cash for College campaign partners invite you to attend the 4th Annual Cash for College Scholarship Awards Reception.Join us in celebrating the hundreds of local students who will receive more than $1 million in college scholarships made possible through a generous grant from the College Access Foundation of California.This invitation is good for the intended recipient and up to three guests. Please make sure to indicate how many people will be attending when you register.

Location
Miguel Contreras Learning Complex
322 Lucas Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90017

More info: www.lachamber.com

Rotary Club of El Monte/S. El Monte Fundraiser

Come and support the EM/SEM Rotary Club this Thursday, June 25th

at their 1st Annual Texas Hold'Em Tournament

June 25, 2009

6pm-10pm

@: VFW Hall, 11126 Ramona Blvd, El Monte

Tickets are: $50

For more information: Alicia Escalera at 626-890-0884 or Juan Mireles 626-945-9696

SAVE THE DATE!

La Historia Historical Society

Presents

8th Annual Fundraiser Event

SATURDAY, JULY 25, 2009

Social Hour: 6om-8pm
Dance: 8pm-12am.

Located at: Grace T. Black Auditorium/El Monte Community Center, 3130 Tyler Avenue, El Monte

*Live band Music Performances by Los Pistoleros
*Memory Photo Booth
*Snacks for Sale
*Theme: TEX-MEX Attire Optional
*Costume Contest

Tickets: Presale: $15 $20 at the Door
Tickets available at the Museum hours: T,W, Thrs: 11-3pm. Sunday 1-4pm.

La Historia Society Museum Society useum for more information: 626-279-1954
or contact Charles Zapata: 626-575-3290

Downtown El Monte Art Walk

The Nuvein Foundation presents:

THE DOWNTOWN EL MONTE ART WALK

Saturday, June 27 from 11am-5pm

Located at the park on Valley Mall, the Festival will feature local artists displaying and selling their artwork: Crafts, fine art, comic book and more.

A wide variety of art for everyone in the family!

Featuring: Hortencia Aguirre, Raul Aguirre Jr., Gerry Bonilla, Javier Hernandez, Rafael Navarro, Grasiela Rodriguez, and more.

Please come and support the Nuvein Foundation's annual art walk taking place this Saturday at Valley Mall. It should be a great time and a positive way to show support to our local, and very talented artists. Don't forget also that the Valley Mall has added new retail stores (AT&T and Verizon Wireless) and food eateries so please SHOP, PLAY, AND EAT IN EL MONTE! So take a stroll at the art walk in the early afternoon then head on over to Santa Anita Race Track for the RCS Charity Event!

Rosemary Children's Services (RCS) Charity Event

An Evening with Star Chefs at Santa Anita

State Congressman Adam Schiff is Honorary Chairperson

Rosemary Children's Services (RCS) will hold its long-running benefit, "An Evening with Star Chefs" at Santa Anita park on Saturday, June 27, 2009.

Participating restaurants at this year's Star Chefs gala include Castle Catering, Celestino, Charcuterie, Choctal Ice Cream, El Cholo, Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, The Terrace at the Langham Huntington, etc.

This seems to a worthwhile charity to support, I hope our readers will consider supporting Rosemary's Children's Services as they strive to better the lives of youths in our precious San Gabriel Valley. See you Saturday in your cocktail attire!

Tickiets for An Evening with Star Chefs are currently available for $150 per person. For more information, visit: www.rosemarychildren.org or call 626.844.3033 ext. 211 Santa Anita Park is located at 285 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia.

Rosemary Children’s Services is one of the oldest West Coast charities that helps boys and girls of all ages who have suffered abuse, neglect and abandonment. Its programs include a Foster Family and Adoption Agency, which helps nearly 400 children, annually, throughout Los Angeles County and portions of San Bernardino, Riverside and Orange Counties; a Non-Public School providing specialized education in a small structured environment; a Mental Health Program to provide individual and group therapy and training in various life skills; and the Residential Program which includes Rosemary Cottage and four group homes.

Baldwin Park Relay for Life

Baldwin Park Relay for Life

June 27&28, 2009

9am-9am (24 hours)

at

Sierra Vista High School

The American Cancer Society Relay for Life is a fun overnight team event that raised funds to fight cancer.


Visit our website: www.RelayforLife/baldwinparkca

For more information contact:

Vee Clark-Event Chair
(626) 806-6651

2nd Annual 4th of July Pancake Breakfast

So when you are done with your 5K Memorial Run/Walk in San Marino (see previous post) you can warm your tummy with pancakes at Fire Station 166 in El Monte. What a great way to start the weekend with your friendly members of the community and visiting the Fire Station. Happy early 4th of July!

City of El Monte, City of El Monte Patriotic Commission and Los Angeles County Fire Department

Sponsor

2nd Annual 4th of July Pancake Breakfast

Saturday, July 4, 2009

8:30 am-11:30 am

Fire Station 166
3615 North Santa Anita Avenue,
El Monte, CA 91731

Donation: $5.00

*Fireworks Saftey
*CERT Demo
*Shakey-Quakey Earthquake Preparedness

Come join us for a day of Fun and Learning


For more information, please call (626) 580-2001

Congratulations to our 2009 Scholarship Winners

Our 2009 Crystal C. Chavez Foundation Scholarship Winners are:

Christina Ortiz

A graduating senior from Mountain View High School.

and

Francisco E. Arroyo

A graduating senior from El Monte High School.

Ms. Ortiz and Mr. Arroyo will each be awarded a $500 scholarship award to be used toward their college costs. Congratulations! A new wonderful, learning experience awaits you....

We are so blessed to have received so many scholarship applications from such qualified students in the San Gabriel Valley. We wish all our applicants continued education success.

5th Annual J.P. Blecksmith Memorial 5K

I was in San Marino this past week and I came across this great July 4th event.

The 5th Annual J.P. Blecksmith Memorial 5K will take place on Saturday, July 4, 2009!


Registration: 6:45am-7:45am
Race Time: 8:00am
1441 San Marino Avenue
(Northwest Corner of Huntington Drive and San Marino Avenue)

To register, visit: jpblecksmith.org

Kick off your 4th of July celebration with a patriotic 5k run/walk/jog through the beautiful City of San Marino. Bring your friends and family to celebrate the life and legacy of 2nd Lt. J.P. Blecksmith and all service men and women who have and continue to serve the USA. The J.P. Blecksmith Memorial 5K benefits the J.P. Blecksmith Leadership Foundation.

For more information, visit jpblecksmith.org or email: info@jpblecksmith.org


So if y'all are around July 4th weekend please consider lacing up your sneakers for the 5K run/walk and show your appreciation to those men and women who serve this great land of ours. See you in San Marino!

THANK YOU to all of our SPONSORS

WE WOULD LIKE TO SAY A BIG 'THANK YOU' TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS WHO MADE our JUNE 4TH SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER RECEPTION A HUGE SUCESS!

The Crystal C. Chavez Foundation appreciates you!

SPONSORS

Thanks to all our sponsors who made this event possible.
Listing is in no particular order.

IVY LEAGUE
Michael Brown
Michael Montgomery-Attorney at Law
Rudy International-Rudy Ruettiger
Sharp Seating Company
Athen’s Services-Tommy Ouzoonian
J. San Martin
Gordon Termite-Bob Gordon
Sheriff Lee Baca
PolitiQuest-Al Han, Executive Director

COLLEGIATE LEVEL
Walmart-Rosemead
Upper San Gabriel Municipal Water District
How Can We Help Foundation-Craig Penne
William Rodriguez Morrison
Cpl. Luke A. Jones (USMC)
Patricia Valencia

Jesse Garcia-Century 21
Jesse Corral

Capital 2000-Bill Schaffer

PREPARATORY & DONOR LEVEL
CVS/pharmacy- Randy Miller, District Manager
Sam’s Club-El Monte, Los Angeles Dodgers
Marie Callendar’s, Amy’s Pastry
Starbucks Coffee-Mike Valenzuela,
Edible Arrangements
Wilkies Flowers-Javier and Sara Zambrano
Togo’s- Vincent Shephard, Monterey Park
Corner Bakery-Hastings Ranch, Pasadena
Baskin-Robbins, El Monte

Larry Rodriguez
Teresita’s Family Restaurant
MC Print and Copy-Moises Cuevas

It's Finally Arrived-June 4, 2009

Today is the day of our inaugural scholarship fundraiser!

I'm so excited, nervous and happy at the same time. I would love to see all of our supporters to come out and show their support for the youth of the San Gabriel Valley. I have attached details below and I look forward to seeing all your smiling faces in attendance and to help us raise funds for our scholarship program!

CRYSTAL C. CHAVEZ FOUNDATION

Lighting the path to your American Dream


Dessert Reception

To Benefit the Crystal C. Chavez Foundation Scholarship Program



Thursday, JUNE 4, 2009

6pm-8pm



Tickets: $20-Preparatory Level

$100-Collegiate Level

$250-Ivy League Level


Grace T. Black Auditorium

3130 N. Tyler Avenue

El Monte, CA



Featuring: USC Song Girls, 97.1 AMP Radio and Live Art by the SGV Cartoonistas



Luscious Desserts Provided!


To Donate, Attend or for info, call (866) 308-7862 or visit: http://www.crystalcchavez.org/
Email: events@crystalcchavez.org

USC Song Girls

Unfortunately the Los Angeles Laker Girls will not be able to attend our inaugural fundraiser on Thursday but instead an appearance will be made by the World Famous USC Song Girls!


We appreciate the support of the Trojan Family to help us advance our mission of making college a realty to the youth of the San Gabriel Valley!

For more information about our event or to purchase tickets visit: www.crystalcchavez.org.

CRYSTAL C. CHAVEZ FOUNDATION
Lighting the path to your American Dream

Dessert Reception
To Benefit the Crystal C. Chavez Foundation Scholarship Program

Thursday, JUNE 4, 2009
6pm-8pm

Tickets: $20-Preparatory Level
$100-Collegiate Level
$250-Ivy League Level

Grace T. Black Auditorium
3130 N. Tyler Avenue
El Monte, CA

Featuring: USC SONG GIRLS, 97.1 AMP Radio and Live Art by the SGV Cartoonistas

Luscious Desserts Provided!

To Donate, Attend or for info, call (866) 308-7862 or visit: www.crystalcchavez.org

"The price of freedom is eternal vigilance"-Thomas Jefferson

The City of Alhambra

Invites you to the...

Veterans' Memorial Dedication Ceremony

Saturday, June 6, 2009

9am


Alhambra Park
500 North Palm Avenue
Alhambra, CA

Special Veterans' Display-June 6, 2009 10am-12pm
Alhambra Historical Society-1550 W. Alhambra Road


We support our troops and remember our veterans.

Don't forget to hug a veteran!

South El Monte Library Presents....

TAIKO DRUM CONCERT

Thursday, June 11, 2009

6:30pm


Japanese Taiko drumming has a long and rich history. This multicultural program is appropriate for aduolts and families.


South El Monte Library
1430 N. Central Avenue
South El Monte, CA 91733
(626) 443-4158

Taste of the Heights

This looks like a great community event, hope to see you all there!!

The 6th Annual Taste of the Heights
Community Food, Wine Tasting, Music and More

Sponsored by Superviso Don Knabe and County of Los Angeles Dept.of Parks and Recreation: Russ Guiney, Director

Wednesday, May 27, 2009
5pm-8pm


Pathfinder Community Regional Park
18120 E. Pathfinder Road
Rowland Heights, CA 91748
626-333-1369 or 562-690-0933

Tickets: $10 pre-sale, $12 door, $3 children


Join Us for a night under the Stars!

Featuring a Children's Fun Zone, Live Entertainment by HoDads and Music Sponsored by Los Angeles County Arts Commission

Have a crystallic day!

It's another beautiful, warm and clear day in southern California.

Go attack life with courage, confidence and conviction!

You can do it!

DREAM Big. Start SMALL. Scale Up.

Crystal C. Chavez Foundation Scholarship Program

Happy Saturday....Preparations are underway for our inaugural fundraising event that is coming up really soon. I hope you all can make it and spread the word to other interested people.

You can purchase tickets online on the website: www.crystalcchavez.org or pay at the door preferably by check (Checks payable to: Crystal C. Chavez Foundation).

We have received excellent responses and expect a large turnout with dignitaries, community leaders and educators.

We are also still accepting sponsorships in the following areas: Program Sponsor, Decorations Sponsor, "Pie Row" Sponsor, and Souvenir Sponsor. For more information please email us at: events@crystalcchavez.org or call (866) 308-7862. Thanks.

CRYSTAL C. CHAVEZ FOUNDATION
Lighting the path to your American Dream

Dessert Reception
To Benefit the Crystal C. Chavez Foundation Scholarship Program

Thursday, JUNE 4, 2009
6pm-8pm

Tickets: $20-Preparatory Level
$100-Collegiate Level
$250-Ivy League Level

Grace T. Black Auditorium
3130 N. Tyler Avenue
El Monte, CA

Featuring: Los Angeles Laker Girls, 97.1 AMP Radio and Live Art by the SGV Cartoonistas

Luscious Desserts Provided!

To Donate, Attend or for info, call (866) 308-7862 or visit: http://www.crystalcchavez.org/
Email: events@crystalcchavez.org

P.S. We are still accepting applications for our 2009 Crystal C. Chavez Foundation Scholarhip. The Deadline to turn in applications is May 31, 2009. We are awarding (2) 5oo scholarships. Best of luck to all applicants!

Golf Tourneys

Just received word of another golf tournament taking place. The Acradia Chamber of Commerce is putting on a golf tournament on June 26, 2009....the Chamber is cohosting it with the cities of Monrovia and Duarte.

The M.A.D. Golf Tournament will take place at the San Dimas Country Club on Friday, June 26, 2009.

For more information please check out: www.arcadiachamber.com or call the Chamber office at 626-447-2159.

But most importantly our local, friendy El Monte/South El Monte Chamber of Commerce is also has their 26th Annual Golf Classic on Friday, June 5, 2009 at the Whittier Narrows Golf Course. I'm so looking forward for this event!...which will take place the day after my Dessert Reception fundraiser on June 4th! Don't forget that you can purchase tickets for my event online at my website: www.crystalcchavez.org or in person, when you see me around town!

For the EM/SEM Chamber Golf Classic the cost for single golfers are $120 and corporate sponsorships are $570. You can also sign up to sponsor tee or green signs, donate prizes and raffle items. For more information please call the Chamber at 626-443-0180. Looking forward to seeing y'all on the green with your Polo shirts and madras bottoms!



P.S. The EM/SEM Chamber Golf Tourney is the Chamber's biggest and only fundraiser for the year so it really does mean a lot to have your support. Thanks, CCC

Did you hug a veteran today?

Memorial Day is on May 25, 2009. It a very special day in America where we take time aside to honor our veterans and our men and women who serve our flag.

It is because of the fallen who have given their lives for freedom that we are free today. I support our troops and remember of veterans. We are free and safe to reach our American Dream because of those who have worn and wear a uniform. Don't forget to thank our soldiers when you see one and hug a veteran!

I'm happy and blessed to live in this great land called America. The land of opportunity and the home of the brave. A place where dreams are made and where the people are free Our people ae faithful and our values strong. Our land is vast and our hope and optimism is eternal. We believe in strong families and free markets. We welcome outsiders with open arms and fight for what we believe in right. This is America, and there is no other place I would rather live my life.

So, where will your American Dream take you? For I know that America's best days are ahead of us and we will march onwards for a greener, healthier, safer and prosperous nation where we honor the past while inventing the future. Keep reaching your dreams-and let me know how I can help. Choose to make it a crystallic day!

'Rudy' honors hard work

http://www.sgvtribune.com/ci_12408077

Click the link to read the story.

ELECTION DAY!

Today is election day! Don't forget to go out and VOTE!

You can find out where your polling place is by calling your city hall or logging on to www.lavote.net.


P.S. What I really like about election day is the little "I vote" sticker you get afterwards! :-)

Boys and Girls Club of Whittier

Last week I attended a Wake-Up Whittier Breakfast hosted by the Whittier Chamber of Commerce. www.whittierchamber.com
At the breakfast they showcased various local nonprofits. I didn't find out about the event until the day before or else the CCC Foundation would have had a table. It was a packed event and I learned about the other 501s around town. I also will be speaking to the East Whittier Lions Club on Friday about the Foundation which was made possible through a connection at this event.

501 Spotlight on:

Boys and Girls Club of Whittier

The B.C. McCabe Foundation Teen Center

Mission Statement: The mission of the Boys and Girls of Whittier is to inspire and enable all young people to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. The Boys and Girls Club of Whittier strives to positivey impact and transform our community through the development of our youth in the following areas:

Character and Leadership Training
Education and Career Development
Health and Life Skills
Visual and Performing Arts
Sports, Fitness, and Recreation

Location: 7929 S. Greenleaf Avenue, Whiittier, CA 90602

Phone: 562-945-3787

Web: www.bgcw.org

Teen Director: Coco Lujan, coco@bgcw.org

Arts Showcase and Fundraiser

Whittier Cultural Arts Foundation

Presents

Arts Showcase and Fundraiser

Ruth B. Shannon Center

Sunday, June 7, 2009

2pm-5pm

The Top 10 will perform and the Whittier Idol will be chosen.

$25 admission fee

Support MVSD students

I hope y'all can join our education community, students, and parents on Tuesday at this great awards presentations that will benefit students enrolled in the Mountain View School District. This is exactly what our school district needs ...role models, inspiration and resources to help students reach their American Dream. Thank you Rudy Ruettiger!


Former Notre Dame football player Rudy Ruettiger will present five Mountain View School District students with $1,000 scholarships and a medallion from the Rudy Foundation at Ruettiger's "Rudy Awards Presentation."
The event is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Payne Elementary School, 2850 N. Mountain View Road in El Monte.
Ruettiger is a motivational speaker, author and the man the movie "Rudy" was based on.
For more information, call (626) 652-4900.

Support local arts program

Bassett district to hold arts festival

A total of 1,500 students representing all grade levels from the Bassett Unified School District will participate in the Bassett Fine Arts Festival, which will feature everything from choral groups and drama to visual arts.
The event is slated from 3 to 7 p.m. May 29 at Bassett High School, 755 Ardilla Ave. in La Puente.
The festival is free and open to all students, parents and the public.
For more information, call (626) 931-3000 or visit www.bassett.k12.ca.us.

FREE MONEY

Scholarships available
Each year the Friends of the Walnut Library awards scholarships to deserving local graduating high school seniors to financially assist them in their continuing education.
This year's recipients will be chosen based on their completion and submission of the Friends' scholarship application.
Any June 2009 graduating high school senior who resides in the city of Walnut is eligible and may apply. Applications are available until Thursday at the Walnut Library, 21155 La Puente Road.
The application is also available online by e-mailing the request to: the.walnut.library@mac.com.
Recipients will be chosen by the Friends of the Walnut Library board and advisors, and winners will be notified and announced in June.

Arts & Literature At the Lakes

Arts and Literature at the Lakes

1050 Lakes Drive

West Covina, CA 91790

Saturday, MAY 30, 2009

11am-5pm

FREE FREE FREE FREE

Book Sale*Poetry Jam*Live Music

Fundraiser for Friends of the West Covina Library

Hosted by:
Rubios (Fresh Mexican Grill), Friends of the West Covina Library, Nuvein Foundation (nuvein.org), Greater West Covina Business Association

For more information: wmedinagwcba@aol.com

Too Cool For School

Too Cool For School

End of the year-Student Art Show

May 11-July 31, 2009

Rio Hondo College Art Gallery

3600 Workman Mill Road

Whittier, CA 90601

Gallery Hours:

M-Th: 9pm-3pm

Evenings: M-W: 6-9pm

Phone: (562) 908-3471

High school dropout rate climbs to 34.9%

Noteworthy news from today's Los Angeles Times (A6 California Briefings)

HIGH SCHOOL DROPOUT RATE BLIMBS TO 34.9%

"The high school dropout rate improved slightly in California last year but rose in Los Angeles, where more than one third of students are officially classified as dropouts, state officials said Tuesday.


Statewide, 68.3% of students graduated and 20.1% dropped out, according to data released by the state Department of Education. For the Los Angeles Unified School District, the dropout rate wa 34.9%. Although the state dropout rate was down 1% point from the previous year, the Los Angeles Unified rate wa up by more than 3% percentage points......


Supt. of Public Instruction Jack O'connell said that although he was encouraged by the slight progress statewide, teh dropout rate remained "unaccceptably high" and was "alarmingly high" among African American and Latino students".


The higher dropout rate in our schools will correspond to having fewer students going to college. Education is this nation's greatest economic stimulus and we must all work together to help educate our youth.

Crystal's Path to Success

On Friday, May 8, 2009 South El Monte High School held it's 1st Annual Environmental Awareness Career/College Day. It was such a great success. Assemblymember Mike Eng (49th A.D.) was there to pump up the students along with El Monte Councilman J Gomez and South El Monte Councilman Louie Aguinaga. More about this event later....(I don't have the program with me at the moment).

Anyway, the following is what I shared with the students:

Crystal's Path to Sucess

1. Believe in yourself.

When you believe, you can achieve....that's what is painted in the Kranz Intermediate Cafeteria. You need to believe in yourself and execute a plan of action to become successful. Believe in yourself and others will believe in you too.

2. Set Goals.
Set realistic, measurable and accountable goals for youreself. Write them down. Tell other about them. Always keep goals in you mind as you are trying to accomplish them.

3. Be prepared.
You never have a second chance to make a first impression. So you need to prepared for what kind of life you want. If you want to be the next Tiger Woods, you need to start preparing now for a life of golf and start grooming yourself now....the competition is fierce!

4. Get information.
We live in an information age. Get information. Create information. Use information.

5. Take care of your body.
Like I told the students of Friday, you only have one body in this lifetime so take care of it! There is no monetary value we place on your body because its irreplaceable. Drink lots of water. Stay about from fatty and sugar-saturated foods. Exercise regularly. Smile! and control your stress levels.

6. Think of others.
Treat others the way you would like to be treated.

7. Impact the world.
We live in a global economy and things move along fast because we live in an information age. Don't limit yourself to our national borders but think with a global perspective...it's the future, baby! One day, I hope to elevate the Crystal C. Chavez Foundation to help struggling students in Mexico and central America and beyond.

8. Pray.
I know that my faith in God has helped me be the person I am today and I pray for guidance and direction in life incessantly.


I know that each and every student can be successful and reach his or her American Dream by getting on the path to college and utilizing the skills to for a successful life. I just shared with you above is what I did and still use and hope to light your path to a sucessfu life. :-)

Civic Engagement

There are only 10 more days until the Special Election on May 19th. (http://www.lavote.net/)

The cities of El Monte, South El Monte, and Rosemead, among other cities, are in the 32nd Congressional Distiric, have a vacant congressional seat since Congresswoman Solis was confirmed to serve as our now Secretary of Labor under the Obama Administration.

There are 12 candidates vying for the seat in Congress. If you would like to get a hands on experience on grass-roots campaignsand politics I highly recommend getting involved with on of the campaigns.

Campaign Information:

Senator Gil Cedillo for U.S. Congress
10808 Valley Mall
El Monte, CA 91731
Phone: 626-454-2601
http://www.gilcedillo.com/

Emmanuel Pleitez for U.S. Congress
4507 Valley Blvd, Suite 203
Los Angeles, CA 90032
mailto:info@pleitezforcongress.com
Office Phone Number: (626) 409-1499
Media Inquiries Phone Number: (562) 296-2496
http://www.pleitezforcongress.com/

Teresa Hernandez for U.S. Congress
http://www.teresahernandez.com/

Betty Chu for U.S. Congress
bettychu4congress@yahoo.com
(626) 576-7136

Judy Chu for U.S. Congress
4153 N. Maine Ave,
Baldwin Park, CA 91706
http://www.judychu.net/

David Truax for U.S. Congress
(626) 915-4523
david@dt4c.com
http://www.dt4c.com/


Benita Duran for U.S. Congress
313 Record Avenue
East Los Angeles, CA 90063
(323) 243-3869
http://www.benitaduranforcongress.com/

Francisco Alonso for U.S. Congress
626) 288-4803
http://www.alonsoforcongress.com/

Stefan Lysenko

Rafael Nadal

Nick Mostert

Christopher Agrella
http://www.agrella4congress.org/



I've personally have volunteered and worked in campaigns since my days at USC (http://www.usc.edu/) and have found all my experiences invaluable. You get to work for a candidate and or issues that you are passionate about....meet like-minded folks, get campaign literature for free, and free food! You also get to make great connections and put your volunteer time on your resume! So if you are interested please contact the candidate best suited for you!

Happy politiking :-)

June 4, 2009

We just got confirmed that the Laker Girls will make an appearance at our June 4th fundraiser extravaganza! And that 97.1 AMP Radio will be there too!

Crystal C. Chavez Foundation
Lighting the path to your American Dream

Dessert Reception

Join us at our inaugural fundraising event to benefit the Crystal C. Chavez Foundation scholarship program

Thursday, JUNE 4, 2009

6pm-8pm

Tickets:
Preparatory: $20
Collegiate: $100
Ivy League: $250



Grace T. Black Auditorium
3130 N. Tyler Avenue
El Monte, CA



Luscious desserts * Music * Raffle * Live Art

RSVP: events@crystalcchavez.org