Monday, August 25, 2008
Monday, August 18, 2008
Life: Baseball heaven? Nah, just Dad, son and a week in Cooperstown | tournament, coyotes, baseball, one, final
Life: Baseball heaven? Nah, just Dad, son and a week in Cooperstown tournament, coyotes, baseball, one, final - OCRegister.com
ONEONTA, NY On the final day of a baseball tournament in upstate New York, 11 Orange County little leaguers stopped being 12 years old.
They played their last game before rules required them to move to the upper divisions. One final game before facial hair and deeper voices and girls.
One final shot at 12-year-old glory.
One of their dads, Curt Yocam, who works in the medical supply business with its requisite travel and deadlines and pressure, had been saying all week what the other dads had been feeling.
"Look at them," Yocam said more than once – in between the batting practice, shoulder punches, towel snaps, resounding farts and kids meal chicken strips. "Wouldn't it be great to be them?"
On that final Thursday, the Saddleback Coyotes, a travel ball team of kids from the Tijeras Creek and Trabuco Canyon little leagues, played in the semifinals of the Cooperstown All Star Village Tournament. They had made it to the final four among 24 other teams from across the United States.
It had been a week-long tournament, held between the maple trees about 20 miles from the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Baseball heaven.
Before the week was over, one of the Coyotes would accomplish Babe Ruthian feats with his bat, one potential Coyotes superstar would not be able to finish the tournament, and one Coyotes dad, the guy who put the whole trip together, would be coaching his final baseball game.
And the Coyotes' bunkhouse would smell like a mixture of old cheese, Napalm and feet.
Over the first four days of the tournament, the Coyotes won seven of eight games outscoring their opponents 97-26. On that final day, they needed one more victory to play in the championship game for a 6-foot trophy and a level of pride they would never forget.
The Coyotes led the semifinal game, 4-3, in the sixth inning against the Jax Beach Whitecaps, a terrific team from Florida.
On their final day as 12-year-olds, the Coyotes needed two more outs to seal the victory.
• • •
The genius behind this baseball dream was Mike Jenkins of Rancho Santa Margarita. Jenkins is a little league coach who attended the Cooperstown tournament last year. His phone call came in February, asking my son Dylan and me if we wanted to go.
He wanted to win the tournament, no doubt about that. But he said something else in that first phone call.
"You will have the best time you and your son have ever had," he said.
His genius was this: Instead of asking us to turn over our sons to him for a week, Jenkins invited each player's father to become a "coach" and stay in the bunkhouse with the players.
He sold us all on the ultimate father-son roadie. (As it turns out, no other team in the Cooperstown tournament had eight dads/coaches staying in the bunks).
Each father-son tandem paid $1,330 for the accommodations.
• • •
We flew into Kennedy Airport in New York on July 25 and piled into two rental vans for the four-hour drive upstate. We took a wrong turn in the Catskill Mountains and found ourselves in Woodstock.
Yes, that Woodstock.
We had to explain to the kids – most of which had never heard of the place – that history had blossomed just outside the little town during the 1960s when hundreds of thousands of nearly naked people converged for a rock concert. We told them about Jimi Hendrix and Crosby, Stills and Nash.
Suddenly, a scream in the back of the van.
"A HIPPIE."
Standing on the street corner, as if preserved from 1969, was a real, live hippie with a ponytail, tie-dye t-shirt and a beard. The kids looked at him with wonder, like he was Big Foot or a breathing museum exhibit.
Their education had begun
ONEONTA, NY On the final day of a baseball tournament in upstate New York, 11 Orange County little leaguers stopped being 12 years old.
They played their last game before rules required them to move to the upper divisions. One final game before facial hair and deeper voices and girls.
One final shot at 12-year-old glory.
One of their dads, Curt Yocam, who works in the medical supply business with its requisite travel and deadlines and pressure, had been saying all week what the other dads had been feeling.
"Look at them," Yocam said more than once – in between the batting practice, shoulder punches, towel snaps, resounding farts and kids meal chicken strips. "Wouldn't it be great to be them?"
On that final Thursday, the Saddleback Coyotes, a travel ball team of kids from the Tijeras Creek and Trabuco Canyon little leagues, played in the semifinals of the Cooperstown All Star Village Tournament. They had made it to the final four among 24 other teams from across the United States.
It had been a week-long tournament, held between the maple trees about 20 miles from the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Baseball heaven.
Before the week was over, one of the Coyotes would accomplish Babe Ruthian feats with his bat, one potential Coyotes superstar would not be able to finish the tournament, and one Coyotes dad, the guy who put the whole trip together, would be coaching his final baseball game.
And the Coyotes' bunkhouse would smell like a mixture of old cheese, Napalm and feet.
Over the first four days of the tournament, the Coyotes won seven of eight games outscoring their opponents 97-26. On that final day, they needed one more victory to play in the championship game for a 6-foot trophy and a level of pride they would never forget.
The Coyotes led the semifinal game, 4-3, in the sixth inning against the Jax Beach Whitecaps, a terrific team from Florida.
On their final day as 12-year-olds, the Coyotes needed two more outs to seal the victory.
• • •
The genius behind this baseball dream was Mike Jenkins of Rancho Santa Margarita. Jenkins is a little league coach who attended the Cooperstown tournament last year. His phone call came in February, asking my son Dylan and me if we wanted to go.
He wanted to win the tournament, no doubt about that. But he said something else in that first phone call.
"You will have the best time you and your son have ever had," he said.
His genius was this: Instead of asking us to turn over our sons to him for a week, Jenkins invited each player's father to become a "coach" and stay in the bunkhouse with the players.
He sold us all on the ultimate father-son roadie. (As it turns out, no other team in the Cooperstown tournament had eight dads/coaches staying in the bunks).
Each father-son tandem paid $1,330 for the accommodations.
• • •
We flew into Kennedy Airport in New York on July 25 and piled into two rental vans for the four-hour drive upstate. We took a wrong turn in the Catskill Mountains and found ourselves in Woodstock.
Yes, that Woodstock.
We had to explain to the kids – most of which had never heard of the place – that history had blossomed just outside the little town during the 1960s when hundreds of thousands of nearly naked people converged for a rock concert. We told them about Jimi Hendrix and Crosby, Stills and Nash.
Suddenly, a scream in the back of the van.
"A HIPPIE."
Standing on the street corner, as if preserved from 1969, was a real, live hippie with a ponytail, tie-dye t-shirt and a beard. The kids looked at him with wonder, like he was Big Foot or a breathing museum exhibit.
Their education had begun
Friday, August 15, 2008
Labor Day Weekend 2008 Events in Orange County
Labor Day Weekend Events in Orange County
International Street Fair - Orange
Labor Day Weekend
August 29-31, 2008
International foods, crafts, folk dancing and music. Many different ethnic foods and costume. The Street Fair has become known for the variety of food reflecting cuisine from around the world. They provide food, drink, entertainment and crafts to the visitors.
LOCATION:
Street Fair is located in a four-square block area radiating out from the center of the Orange Plaza, which is the intersection of Chapman and Glassell.
Hello Kitty Boardfest - Huntington Beach
Labor Day Weekend
August 30 - September 1, 2008
Hello Kitty BoardfestSM is returning to the Huntington Beach Pier on Labor Day weekend. The surf-inspired festival features a family-oriented beach exposition showcasing free attractions and games, surf clinics, skateboarding demonstrations and live music all set against the backdrop of a top-rated professional women's surfing competition.
Free daily activities include a rock climbing wall, a mechanical surfboard, face painting, an obstacle course, and a moon bounce house and games every hour including sand castle building contests, tug-of-war, hula hoop contests, relay races, and more.
LOCATION:
Huntington Beach Pier
Huntington Beach, CA
INFORMATION:
(714) 375-1132
Pageant of the Masters - Laguna Beach
Now through August 30, 2008
Presented in July and August since the early 1930's, these colorful events have won worldwide recognition. The Festival is a juried exhibit of fine, strictly original works by 160 gifted artists, while the Pageant is a spectacular stage production of living art re-creations.
LOCATION:
650 Laguna Canyon Rd
Laguna Beach
INFO:
949-494-1145
Sawdust Festival - Laguna Beach
Now through August 31, 2008
10 am - 10 pm daily
Outdoor arts and craftes festival. Watch artists create their work and buy directly from the artists while enjoying the wonderful atmosphere.
LOCATION:
935 Laguna Canyon Rd.
Laguna Beach
INFORMATION:
949-494-3030
Discovery Science Center Presents:
Animal Grossology
Now through September 7, 2008
Meet some of the stinkiest, slimiest and downright yuckiest creatures on Earth at Discovery Science Center’s summer 2008 exhibition, Animal Grossology.
Bob the Builder
Now through September 7, 2008
Bob the Builder and his can-do crew invite aspiring builders and their families help to get the job done, as the first-ever hands-on Bob the Builder–Project: Build It traveling museum exhibit visits Taco Bell Discovery Science Center.
LOCATION:
Discovery Science Center
2500 N. Main St.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
INFORMATION:
714-542-2823
International Street Fair - Orange
Labor Day Weekend
August 29-31, 2008
International foods, crafts, folk dancing and music. Many different ethnic foods and costume. The Street Fair has become known for the variety of food reflecting cuisine from around the world. They provide food, drink, entertainment and crafts to the visitors.
LOCATION:
Street Fair is located in a four-square block area radiating out from the center of the Orange Plaza, which is the intersection of Chapman and Glassell.
Directions
Hello Kitty Boardfest - Huntington Beach
Labor Day Weekend
August 30 - September 1, 2008
Hello Kitty BoardfestSM is returning to the Huntington Beach Pier on Labor Day weekend. The surf-inspired festival features a family-oriented beach exposition showcasing free attractions and games, surf clinics, skateboarding demonstrations and live music all set against the backdrop of a top-rated professional women's surfing competition.
Free daily activities include a rock climbing wall, a mechanical surfboard, face painting, an obstacle course, and a moon bounce house and games every hour including sand castle building contests, tug-of-war, hula hoop contests, relay races, and more.
LOCATION:
Huntington Beach Pier
Huntington Beach, CA
INFORMATION:
(714) 375-1132
Annual Festival of Children
Costa Mesa
September 1 - 30, 2008
Beginning early September and continuing every weekend throughout the month. Over two million people attended last year’s celebration of childhood. Showcasing over 50 children’s charities, this year’s Festival of Children brings together even more fun activities for children and families to enjoy together. It will feature more than 100 special events, including celebrity appearances, live performances, character appearances, arts & crafts, special demonstrations and more.
All events are free to the public.
LOCATION:
South Coast Plaza
Costa Mesa
International Street Fair - Orange
Labor Day Weekend
August 29-31, 2008
International foods, crafts, folk dancing and music. Many different ethnic foods and costume. The Street Fair has become known for the variety of food reflecting cuisine from around the world. They provide food, drink, entertainment and crafts to the visitors.
LOCATION:
Street Fair is located in a four-square block area radiating out from the center of the Orange Plaza, which is the intersection of Chapman and Glassell.
Hello Kitty Boardfest - Huntington Beach
Labor Day Weekend
August 30 - September 1, 2008
Hello Kitty BoardfestSM is returning to the Huntington Beach Pier on Labor Day weekend. The surf-inspired festival features a family-oriented beach exposition showcasing free attractions and games, surf clinics, skateboarding demonstrations and live music all set against the backdrop of a top-rated professional women's surfing competition.
Free daily activities include a rock climbing wall, a mechanical surfboard, face painting, an obstacle course, and a moon bounce house and games every hour including sand castle building contests, tug-of-war, hula hoop contests, relay races, and more.
LOCATION:
Huntington Beach Pier
Huntington Beach, CA
INFORMATION:
(714) 375-1132
Pageant of the Masters - Laguna Beach
Now through August 30, 2008
Presented in July and August since the early 1930's, these colorful events have won worldwide recognition. The Festival is a juried exhibit of fine, strictly original works by 160 gifted artists, while the Pageant is a spectacular stage production of living art re-creations.
LOCATION:
650 Laguna Canyon Rd
Laguna Beach
INFO:
949-494-1145
Sawdust Festival - Laguna Beach
Now through August 31, 2008
10 am - 10 pm daily
Outdoor arts and craftes festival. Watch artists create their work and buy directly from the artists while enjoying the wonderful atmosphere.
LOCATION:
935 Laguna Canyon Rd.
Laguna Beach
INFORMATION:
949-494-3030
Discovery Science Center Presents:
Animal Grossology
Now through September 7, 2008
Meet some of the stinkiest, slimiest and downright yuckiest creatures on Earth at Discovery Science Center’s summer 2008 exhibition, Animal Grossology.
Bob the Builder
Now through September 7, 2008
Bob the Builder and his can-do crew invite aspiring builders and their families help to get the job done, as the first-ever hands-on Bob the Builder–Project: Build It traveling museum exhibit visits Taco Bell Discovery Science Center.
LOCATION:
Discovery Science Center
2500 N. Main St.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
INFORMATION:
714-542-2823
International Street Fair - Orange
Labor Day Weekend
August 29-31, 2008
International foods, crafts, folk dancing and music. Many different ethnic foods and costume. The Street Fair has become known for the variety of food reflecting cuisine from around the world. They provide food, drink, entertainment and crafts to the visitors.
LOCATION:
Street Fair is located in a four-square block area radiating out from the center of the Orange Plaza, which is the intersection of Chapman and Glassell.
Directions
Hello Kitty Boardfest - Huntington Beach
Labor Day Weekend
August 30 - September 1, 2008
Hello Kitty BoardfestSM is returning to the Huntington Beach Pier on Labor Day weekend. The surf-inspired festival features a family-oriented beach exposition showcasing free attractions and games, surf clinics, skateboarding demonstrations and live music all set against the backdrop of a top-rated professional women's surfing competition.
Free daily activities include a rock climbing wall, a mechanical surfboard, face painting, an obstacle course, and a moon bounce house and games every hour including sand castle building contests, tug-of-war, hula hoop contests, relay races, and more.
LOCATION:
Huntington Beach Pier
Huntington Beach, CA
INFORMATION:
(714) 375-1132
Annual Festival of Children
Costa Mesa
September 1 - 30, 2008
Beginning early September and continuing every weekend throughout the month. Over two million people attended last year’s celebration of childhood. Showcasing over 50 children’s charities, this year’s Festival of Children brings together even more fun activities for children and families to enjoy together. It will feature more than 100 special events, including celebrity appearances, live performances, character appearances, arts & crafts, special demonstrations and more.
All events are free to the public.
LOCATION:
South Coast Plaza
Costa Mesa
Los Angeles doubles fines for residents who waste water - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles doubles fines for residents who waste water - Los Angeles Times
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa signed an ordinance Thursday that doubles fines for residents who repeatedly violate the city's "drought buster" rules, including a reworked ban on watering lawns between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.The measure bars restaurants from serving water to customers unless it is specifically requested. And the ordinance will quadruple fines for large customers of the Department of Water and Power, mainly businesses, that break the city's water-waster law.
Have you caught the city wasting water?
Waste water
"L.A.'s future depends on our citizens to adopt an ethic of conservation," Villaraigosa said.The anti-drought initiative has coincided with efforts by Villaraigosa to keep his top appointee at the DWP, Commission President Nick Patsaouras, from quitting his post. Perhaps the utility's most aggressive watchdog on spending issues, Patsaouras sent a resignation e-mail Monday, but the mayor refused to accept it.Villaraigosa said his appointee had repeatedly talked about leaving the volunteer post and about being "overworked." Patsaouras serves on a panel overseeing construction of the new $454-million police headquarters.
"He's talked to me about resigning more than a few times. Each time, I get him to realize that we need him," Villaraigosa said.Patsaouras would not discuss his conversation with the mayor but sent a brief text message to The Times saying he would stay put "to fulfill the mayor's vision."Villaraigosa discussed his appointee as he stood near two of the city's 16 "drought busters," inspectors who will issue fines to those caught violating the new rules two or more times. The team will look for various violations, such as washing cars with a hose that lacks a shut-off device.One resident questioned whether the city was being fastidious about its own water usage. West Los Angeles resident Eric Shabsis said he had seen sprinklers running during the day outside the Cheviot Hills Recreation Center and a city facility in Palms. "If residents are being asked not to water their lawns between 9 and 4, shouldn't the city follow the same policy?" asked Shabsis, a onetime aide to former Mayor James K. Hahn.A Times video posted Thursday shows water waste at Venice Beach and at a DWP facility in the San Fernando Valley. DWP spokesman Joe Ramallo said city officials would fix the problems."Clearly, there's work to be done," Ramallo said, adding that the agency switchboard was "flooded with calls about all kinds of potential violations."Under the new rules, DWP customers are prohibited from using hoses to wash down their sidewalks and driveways, unless there is a public safety issue or a pressure washer involved. The law also bars residents from watering their lawns when it rains.Anyone who sees a violation may call (800) DIAL-DWP. The hotline has received 2,400 complaints since last summer, Ramallo said.
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa signed an ordinance Thursday that doubles fines for residents who repeatedly violate the city's "drought buster" rules, including a reworked ban on watering lawns between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.The measure bars restaurants from serving water to customers unless it is specifically requested. And the ordinance will quadruple fines for large customers of the Department of Water and Power, mainly businesses, that break the city's water-waster law.
Have you caught the city wasting water?
Waste water
"L.A.'s future depends on our citizens to adopt an ethic of conservation," Villaraigosa said.The anti-drought initiative has coincided with efforts by Villaraigosa to keep his top appointee at the DWP, Commission President Nick Patsaouras, from quitting his post. Perhaps the utility's most aggressive watchdog on spending issues, Patsaouras sent a resignation e-mail Monday, but the mayor refused to accept it.Villaraigosa said his appointee had repeatedly talked about leaving the volunteer post and about being "overworked." Patsaouras serves on a panel overseeing construction of the new $454-million police headquarters.
"He's talked to me about resigning more than a few times. Each time, I get him to realize that we need him," Villaraigosa said.Patsaouras would not discuss his conversation with the mayor but sent a brief text message to The Times saying he would stay put "to fulfill the mayor's vision."Villaraigosa discussed his appointee as he stood near two of the city's 16 "drought busters," inspectors who will issue fines to those caught violating the new rules two or more times. The team will look for various violations, such as washing cars with a hose that lacks a shut-off device.One resident questioned whether the city was being fastidious about its own water usage. West Los Angeles resident Eric Shabsis said he had seen sprinklers running during the day outside the Cheviot Hills Recreation Center and a city facility in Palms. "If residents are being asked not to water their lawns between 9 and 4, shouldn't the city follow the same policy?" asked Shabsis, a onetime aide to former Mayor James K. Hahn.A Times video posted Thursday shows water waste at Venice Beach and at a DWP facility in the San Fernando Valley. DWP spokesman Joe Ramallo said city officials would fix the problems."Clearly, there's work to be done," Ramallo said, adding that the agency switchboard was "flooded with calls about all kinds of potential violations."Under the new rules, DWP customers are prohibited from using hoses to wash down their sidewalks and driveways, unless there is a public safety issue or a pressure washer involved. The law also bars residents from watering their lawns when it rains.Anyone who sees a violation may call (800) DIAL-DWP. The hotline has received 2,400 complaints since last summer, Ramallo said.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Disneyland to close another food joint - Fast Food Maven - OCRegister.com
Disneyland to close another food joint - Fast Food Maven - OCRegister.com: "Disneyland to close another food joint"
A week after disclosing plans to shutter three McDonald’s in its two Anaheim theme parks, Disneyland has now said it will close a fine dining eatery at California Adventure.
The upscale The Vineyard Room at the Golden Vine Winery — which was once sponsored by Robert Mondavi — will close Aug. 31, Disneyland spokeswoman Betsy Sanchez told The Register in an email statement.
Sanchez would not disclose what would replace the high-end restaurant, where a meal can run tourists about $30 per person.
“In the short term, the area will be used as additional seating for the popular Wine Country Trattoria. Long-term plans are still being considered,” she said.
The closure comes as Disney takes a hard look at revamping the struggling California Adventure. Earlier this summer, The Register’s Around Disney blogger Sonya Smith reported several changes planned for the park. Read her full DCA coverage.
Disneyland also announced plans last week to close three McDonald’s eateries located at both parks, including Burger Invasion at DCA.
Final thoughts: I don’t know about you, but I have never liked the idea of fine dining in a theme park. I hope Disney replaces The Vineyard and Burger Invasion with some good, fast eats. How about a Johnny Rockets Express or a pizza joint? Any suggestions? Write in.
A week after disclosing plans to shutter three McDonald’s in its two Anaheim theme parks, Disneyland has now said it will close a fine dining eatery at California Adventure.
The upscale The Vineyard Room at the Golden Vine Winery — which was once sponsored by Robert Mondavi — will close Aug. 31, Disneyland spokeswoman Betsy Sanchez told The Register in an email statement.
Sanchez would not disclose what would replace the high-end restaurant, where a meal can run tourists about $30 per person.
“In the short term, the area will be used as additional seating for the popular Wine Country Trattoria. Long-term plans are still being considered,” she said.
The closure comes as Disney takes a hard look at revamping the struggling California Adventure. Earlier this summer, The Register’s Around Disney blogger Sonya Smith reported several changes planned for the park. Read her full DCA coverage.
Disneyland also announced plans last week to close three McDonald’s eateries located at both parks, including Burger Invasion at DCA.
Final thoughts: I don’t know about you, but I have never liked the idea of fine dining in a theme park. I hope Disney replaces The Vineyard and Burger Invasion with some good, fast eats. How about a Johnny Rockets Express or a pizza joint? Any suggestions? Write in.
OC students take 2007-08 star exam
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/students-percent-passed-2123357-tests-algebra
Orange County’s public school students in 2007-08 made modest gains for the sixth straight year on slew of standardized tests aimed at measuring how well they are learning math, English and other core subjects, according to figures released today.
Between 44 and 63 percent of students in grades two through 11 scored proficient, the passing rate, or better in English on the California Standards Tests. Between 50 and 65 percent of students in math in grades two through seven passed.
On average, that’s an improvement of about 2 percentage points over the previous year in both subjects.
Students were also tested in world history, biology, chemistry, physics and other subjects. Students in grades 8 through 11 were tested in Algebra I, Algebra II, geometry or in the other math courses they were enrolled in.
About 380,000 across the county took the standards tests this spring, while about 4.8 million students statewide were tested. Orange County students outperformed peers statewide – with a passing rate 5 to 10 percentage points higher – in English and math.
In other subjects, the differences were more drastic:
Local eighth-graders passed Algebra I at a 59 percent rate, while about 42 percent of eighth-graders passed statewide.
In chemistry, 50 percent of county students passed, but only 32 percent of state students did. And 66 percent of local students passed physics, while 42 percent passed across the state.
Both state and local figures showed that the passing rates in high school in English, sciences and advanced math decreased in the higher grades. For example, 59 percent of freshman in the county passed in English, but only 47 percent of juniors did.
The results also showed that more students are taking higher math courses like algebra and geometry at an earlier age. The number of students tested in the eighth-grade in Algebra I, 17,000, is nearly double the number from 2003.
Last month, the state board of education approved a plan to require all eighth-graders to be enrolled in Algebra I within the next three years.
The standards tests are the main component used by the state to measure if students are learning grade appropriate skills. The tests are also a key ingredient in a schools Academic Performance Index. API scores will be released Sept. 4.
Also released today were scores for the California Achievement Test, Sixth Edition, which measures how students compare nationally, and tests designed for students with disabilities and those still learning English.
All the tests are part of the state’s Standardized Testing and Reporting system, or STAR.
Orange County’s public school students in 2007-08 made modest gains for the sixth straight year on slew of standardized tests aimed at measuring how well they are learning math, English and other core subjects, according to figures released today.
Between 44 and 63 percent of students in grades two through 11 scored proficient, the passing rate, or better in English on the California Standards Tests. Between 50 and 65 percent of students in math in grades two through seven passed.
On average, that’s an improvement of about 2 percentage points over the previous year in both subjects.
Students were also tested in world history, biology, chemistry, physics and other subjects. Students in grades 8 through 11 were tested in Algebra I, Algebra II, geometry or in the other math courses they were enrolled in.
About 380,000 across the county took the standards tests this spring, while about 4.8 million students statewide were tested. Orange County students outperformed peers statewide – with a passing rate 5 to 10 percentage points higher – in English and math.
In other subjects, the differences were more drastic:
Local eighth-graders passed Algebra I at a 59 percent rate, while about 42 percent of eighth-graders passed statewide.
In chemistry, 50 percent of county students passed, but only 32 percent of state students did. And 66 percent of local students passed physics, while 42 percent passed across the state.
Both state and local figures showed that the passing rates in high school in English, sciences and advanced math decreased in the higher grades. For example, 59 percent of freshman in the county passed in English, but only 47 percent of juniors did.
The results also showed that more students are taking higher math courses like algebra and geometry at an earlier age. The number of students tested in the eighth-grade in Algebra I, 17,000, is nearly double the number from 2003.
Last month, the state board of education approved a plan to require all eighth-graders to be enrolled in Algebra I within the next three years.
The standards tests are the main component used by the state to measure if students are learning grade appropriate skills. The tests are also a key ingredient in a schools Academic Performance Index. API scores will be released Sept. 4.
Also released today were scores for the California Achievement Test, Sixth Edition, which measures how students compare nationally, and tests designed for students with disabilities and those still learning English.
All the tests are part of the state’s Standardized Testing and Reporting system, or STAR.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Vons to cap double coupons — shoppers irked - Fast Food Maven
Vons to cap double coupons — shoppers irked - Fast Food Maven - OCRegister.com
Vons to cap double coupons — shoppers irked
August 12th, 2008, 2:33 pm · 1 Comment · posted by Nancy Luna, Staff Writer and Blogger
Following a similar move made by Ralphs earlier this summer, Vons said Tuesday that it will put a cap on double coupons.
Starting Aug. 20, Vons stores in Southern California will only double coupons up to $1.
“The grocery business is highly competitive and we frequently refine our promotions based on the market,” spokesman Daymond Rice said Tuesday. “To that point, beginning Aug. 20, our double coupon policy will be slightly modified.”
Currently, a $1 off coupon, gets you $2 off .
Starting Aug. 20, if a coupon exceeds 50 cents and is less than a $1, its value will be capped at $1. All coupons more than $1 will be redeemed at their face value, said Safeway-owned Vons.
In other words, a 75-cent coupon, will get you an additional 25 cents off. That’s it. You will no longer get a $1.50 off. Coupons valued at 50 cents or less will still be doubled.
Stores began notifying customers of the change over the last few days, prompting immediate outrage from avid coupon clippers.
“I would just love to know what these pinheads are thinking,” one shopper wrote on HotCouponWorld.com — a chat forum for coupon clippers. “The economy is really tough now and every little bit helps.”
Orange County resident Glenn Marra, who’s been “couponing” since the 1970s, said he’s upset that Ralphs and Vons are decreasing the savings shoppers get from doubling coupons.
“It’s a very sad day and costly one to come for us couponers,” Marra said.
Vons to cap double coupons — shoppers irked
August 12th, 2008, 2:33 pm · 1 Comment · posted by Nancy Luna, Staff Writer and Blogger
Following a similar move made by Ralphs earlier this summer, Vons said Tuesday that it will put a cap on double coupons.
Starting Aug. 20, Vons stores in Southern California will only double coupons up to $1.
“The grocery business is highly competitive and we frequently refine our promotions based on the market,” spokesman Daymond Rice said Tuesday. “To that point, beginning Aug. 20, our double coupon policy will be slightly modified.”
Currently, a $1 off coupon, gets you $2 off .
Starting Aug. 20, if a coupon exceeds 50 cents and is less than a $1, its value will be capped at $1. All coupons more than $1 will be redeemed at their face value, said Safeway-owned Vons.
In other words, a 75-cent coupon, will get you an additional 25 cents off. That’s it. You will no longer get a $1.50 off. Coupons valued at 50 cents or less will still be doubled.
Stores began notifying customers of the change over the last few days, prompting immediate outrage from avid coupon clippers.
“I would just love to know what these pinheads are thinking,” one shopper wrote on HotCouponWorld.com — a chat forum for coupon clippers. “The economy is really tough now and every little bit helps.”
Orange County resident Glenn Marra, who’s been “couponing” since the 1970s, said he’s upset that Ralphs and Vons are decreasing the savings shoppers get from doubling coupons.
“It’s a very sad day and costly one to come for us couponers,” Marra said.
5-year O.C. homeowners 4.1% ahead annually
5-year O.C. homeowners 4.1% ahead annually
August 12th, 2008, 12:05 am · 32 Comments · posted by Mary Ann Milbourn
Zillow estimates O.C. home values dropped 17.8% in the second quarter over the same period last year, but if you’ve held on for five years, the value has increased 4.1% on an annualized basis.
The online real estate service estimates that if you’ve owned the same O.C. place for 10 years, values have increased 8.4% on an annualized basis.
Meanwhile consumer prices for the L.A.-O.C.-Riverside area are up 3.6% on average over the past five years, 3.1% since 1998.
Although low-end homes took the biggest bath in value in the last year — plunging 21.9% — long term owners in this category came out best, seeing their values rise an estimated 9% annualized since 1998.
http://lansner.freedomblogging.com/2008/08/12/5-year-oc-homeowners-41-ahead/
August 12th, 2008, 12:05 am · 32 Comments · posted by Mary Ann Milbourn
Zillow estimates O.C. home values dropped 17.8% in the second quarter over the same period last year, but if you’ve held on for five years, the value has increased 4.1% on an annualized basis.
The online real estate service estimates that if you’ve owned the same O.C. place for 10 years, values have increased 8.4% on an annualized basis.
Meanwhile consumer prices for the L.A.-O.C.-Riverside area are up 3.6% on average over the past five years, 3.1% since 1998.
Although low-end homes took the biggest bath in value in the last year — plunging 21.9% — long term owners in this category came out best, seeing their values rise an estimated 9% annualized since 1998.
http://lansner.freedomblogging.com/2008/08/12/5-year-oc-homeowners-41-ahead/
Friday, August 8, 2008
News: TriDivas train for triathlons in Coto | szufnarowski, women, triathlon, swimming, bodies - OCRegister.com
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/szufnarowski-women-triathlon-2114693-swimming-bodies?slideshow=1: "TriDivas train for triathlons in Coto"
Coto de Caza has become a place where women train for triathlons.
Three evenings a week, a group known as the TriDivas swims in the Olympic-size pool at the Coto Valley Sports Club preparing their bodies for the swimming portion of the endurance race.
Leading the ladies – who range in age from 17 and up – through their regimen is Coach Martha Szufnarowski of Ladera Ranch.
"A triathlon is a great sport and a great way of using all your muscles," Szufnarowski said.
During a recent session, Szufnarowski told the women not to kick their legs while their bodies sliced through the water.
"In a triathlon you want to minimize the use of your legs while swimming and save them for the bike and running," she said.
At one end of the pool, Szufnarowski posted an outline of their training regimen for the day. Laps totaling 1,600 yards were broken out into multiple 100 yard increments, with specified levels ranging from 85 percent to "all out." The coach also specified the length of breaks between laps.
While swimming, Szufnarowski called out things like "I want you to find that stroke that for you is really strong," and "Good form equals good speed."
There are 81 women in the program, including a mother-daughter team from Huntington Beach.
"I did it because of my daughter," said Robin Littrell, 47, of Huntington Beach. "I've been doing it for a year now. I did a triathlon and enjoyed it."
Many of the women are working professionals and include a hiring consultant, a software consultant, a public defender and a court reporter.
Erin Caswell, 29, of Trabuco Canyon, competed in her 10th triathlon last month. "I do it because someone told me I couldn't. I'm addicted to it now."
Coto de Caza has become a place where women train for triathlons.
Three evenings a week, a group known as the TriDivas swims in the Olympic-size pool at the Coto Valley Sports Club preparing their bodies for the swimming portion of the endurance race.
Leading the ladies – who range in age from 17 and up – through their regimen is Coach Martha Szufnarowski of Ladera Ranch.
"A triathlon is a great sport and a great way of using all your muscles," Szufnarowski said.
During a recent session, Szufnarowski told the women not to kick their legs while their bodies sliced through the water.
"In a triathlon you want to minimize the use of your legs while swimming and save them for the bike and running," she said.
At one end of the pool, Szufnarowski posted an outline of their training regimen for the day. Laps totaling 1,600 yards were broken out into multiple 100 yard increments, with specified levels ranging from 85 percent to "all out." The coach also specified the length of breaks between laps.
While swimming, Szufnarowski called out things like "I want you to find that stroke that for you is really strong," and "Good form equals good speed."
There are 81 women in the program, including a mother-daughter team from Huntington Beach.
"I did it because of my daughter," said Robin Littrell, 47, of Huntington Beach. "I've been doing it for a year now. I did a triathlon and enjoyed it."
Many of the women are working professionals and include a hiring consultant, a software consultant, a public defender and a court reporter.
Erin Caswell, 29, of Trabuco Canyon, competed in her 10th triathlon last month. "I do it because someone told me I couldn't. I'm addicted to it now."
News: TriDivas train for triathlons in Coto | szufnarowski, women, triathlon, swimming, bodies - OCRegister.com
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/szufnarowski-women-triathlon-2114693-swimming-bodies?slideshow=1: "TriDivas train for triathlons in Coto"
Coto de Caza has become a place where women train for triathlons.
Three evenings a week, a group known as the TriDivas swims in the Olympic-size pool at the Coto Valley Sports Club preparing their bodies for the swimming portion of the endurance race.
Leading the ladies – who range in age from 17 and up – through their regimen is Coach Martha Szufnarowski of Ladera Ranch.
"A triathlon is a great sport and a great way of using all your muscles," Szufnarowski said.
During a recent session, Szufnarowski told the women not to kick their legs while their bodies sliced through the water.
"In a triathlon you want to minimize the use of your legs while swimming and save them for the bike and running," she said.
At one end of the pool, Szufnarowski posted an outline of their training regimen for the day. Laps totaling 1,600 yards were broken out into multiple 100 yard increments, with specified levels ranging from 85 percent to "all out." The coach also specified the length of breaks between laps.
While swimming, Szufnarowski called out things like "I want you to find that stroke that for you is really strong," and "Good form equals good speed."
There are 81 women in the program, including a mother-daughter team from Huntington Beach.
"I did it because of my daughter," said Robin Littrell, 47, of Huntington Beach. "I've been doing it for a year now. I did a triathlon and enjoyed it."
Many of the women are working professionals and include a hiring consultant, a software consultant, a public defender and a court reporter.
Erin Caswell, 29, of Trabuco Canyon, competed in her 10th triathlon last month. "I do it because someone told me I couldn't. I'm addicted to it now."
Coto de Caza has become a place where women train for triathlons.
Three evenings a week, a group known as the TriDivas swims in the Olympic-size pool at the Coto Valley Sports Club preparing their bodies for the swimming portion of the endurance race.
Leading the ladies – who range in age from 17 and up – through their regimen is Coach Martha Szufnarowski of Ladera Ranch.
"A triathlon is a great sport and a great way of using all your muscles," Szufnarowski said.
During a recent session, Szufnarowski told the women not to kick their legs while their bodies sliced through the water.
"In a triathlon you want to minimize the use of your legs while swimming and save them for the bike and running," she said.
At one end of the pool, Szufnarowski posted an outline of their training regimen for the day. Laps totaling 1,600 yards were broken out into multiple 100 yard increments, with specified levels ranging from 85 percent to "all out." The coach also specified the length of breaks between laps.
While swimming, Szufnarowski called out things like "I want you to find that stroke that for you is really strong," and "Good form equals good speed."
There are 81 women in the program, including a mother-daughter team from Huntington Beach.
"I did it because of my daughter," said Robin Littrell, 47, of Huntington Beach. "I've been doing it for a year now. I did a triathlon and enjoyed it."
Many of the women are working professionals and include a hiring consultant, a software consultant, a public defender and a court reporter.
Erin Caswell, 29, of Trabuco Canyon, competed in her 10th triathlon last month. "I do it because someone told me I couldn't. I'm addicted to it now."
News: Students of dancers throw support party for O.C. dance finalists | dance, henry, really, shean, year - OCRegister.com
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/dance-henry-really-2118192-shean-year?slideshow=1
Students of dancers throw support party for O.C. dance finalists
Two finalists in "So You Think You Can Dance" teach dance in South O.C.
By MARK EADES
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
Comments 0 Recommend 0
More than 100 people – dance students and their parents – showed up at Friends Restaurant in Dove Canyon to watch the finale of "So You Think You Can Dance." They were rooting for two of the four finalists in the show; both of them are dance teachers at South County Dance in Rancho Santa Margarita.
As the finale show started there were shouts of support and spontaneous applause as the crowd watched the dance teachers Katee Shean and Stephen "Twitch" Boss perform their final dance numbers.
"Katee's really, really good," said Veronica Gutierrez, 11, of Rancho Santa Margarita. "I think she's got a good chance."
Elisabeth Tracy, a nine-year-old dance student of "Twitch" is from Coto de Caza.
"I really like his hip-hop," Tracy said.
Halfway through the final show Shean was eliminated to a chorus of boos and a few sniffles from the young ladies.
"She's a great dance and it's sad," said Alyssa Henry, 13, of Trabuco Canyon.
Henry thought Shean would return to the show next year, or would find a career in dance at a higher level.
"She's going to go far," Henry said.
At the end of the show the "boos" were heard again when it was announced that "Twitch" came close but lost out in the end to Joshua Allen.
"It's a little bit of a let down," said Stacy Hagen, a dance student parent. "It's disappointing, but I'm they'll be back to teach."
Hagen's 13-year-old daughter Nicole rehearses 20 or more hours a week.
"I was excited they made it that far," said Nicole Hagen. "I think I could tryout for that when I'm older."
Students of dancers throw support party for O.C. dance finalists
Two finalists in "So You Think You Can Dance" teach dance in South O.C.
By MARK EADES
THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
Comments 0 Recommend 0
More than 100 people – dance students and their parents – showed up at Friends Restaurant in Dove Canyon to watch the finale of "So You Think You Can Dance." They were rooting for two of the four finalists in the show; both of them are dance teachers at South County Dance in Rancho Santa Margarita.
As the finale show started there were shouts of support and spontaneous applause as the crowd watched the dance teachers Katee Shean and Stephen "Twitch" Boss perform their final dance numbers.
"Katee's really, really good," said Veronica Gutierrez, 11, of Rancho Santa Margarita. "I think she's got a good chance."
Elisabeth Tracy, a nine-year-old dance student of "Twitch" is from Coto de Caza.
"I really like his hip-hop," Tracy said.
Halfway through the final show Shean was eliminated to a chorus of boos and a few sniffles from the young ladies.
"She's a great dance and it's sad," said Alyssa Henry, 13, of Trabuco Canyon.
Henry thought Shean would return to the show next year, or would find a career in dance at a higher level.
"She's going to go far," Henry said.
At the end of the show the "boos" were heard again when it was announced that "Twitch" came close but lost out in the end to Joshua Allen.
"It's a little bit of a let down," said Stacy Hagen, a dance student parent. "It's disappointing, but I'm they'll be back to teach."
Hagen's 13-year-old daughter Nicole rehearses 20 or more hours a week.
"I was excited they made it that far," said Nicole Hagen. "I think I could tryout for that when I'm older."
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Te-Moak Indian Diabetes Program Adds New Kid's Fitness Program to Help Fight Childhood Diabetes & Obesity
Te-Moak Indian Diabetes Program Adds New Kid's Fitness Program to Help Fight Childhood Diabetes & Obesity: "Te-Moak Indian Diabetes Program Adds New Kid's Fitness Program to Help Fight Childhood Diabetes & Obesity"
Te-Moak Indian Diabetes Program Adds New Kid's Fitness Program to Help Fight Childhood Diabetes & Obesity
The Te-Moak Diabetes Program in Elko, NV has recently added the Kids PACE Express Circuit Training Program to its Kid Fit program to help combat childhood diabetes and obesity.
Trabuco Canyon, CA (PRWEB) August 7, 2008 -- Pro*Fit Enterprises, manufacturers of PACE and Kids PACE Express hydraulic circuit training programs announces that the Te-Moak Diabetes Program will become the first facility on an Indian reservation in the US with its kid's fitness program.
Rande LaDue, President of Pro*Fit (www.kidspaceexpress.com) says "We are proud that the Te-Moak Diabetes program has agreed to become a National Showcase Club for Kids PACE Express. I applaud Sharon Keams and her staff for their efforts to help fight childhood diabetes and obesity. We are raising a generation of unfit kids; childhood obesity has reached near epidemic levels, especially in Native American populations. Kids PE is designed to introduce kids ages 5-13 into a healthy fitness lifestyle in a safe, fun, non-intimidating program. Unlike scaled down weight stack machines for kids, Kids PE is very safe on growing bones and joints and offers a very high calorie burn in a fun "fitness musical chairs" format without muscle soreness or intimidation.
The two major keys to the success of this program are safety and fun. Obviously, a program for kids must first be safe. Kids PE equipment has been designed by medical, fitness and recreation professionals to ensure a safe effective program. Next, a program must be fun. If it's not fun, the kids will not stick with it; if it is fun, they will keep coming back and they will see results very quickly.
Sharon Keams, Assistant Coordinator of the Te-Moak Diabetes Program, says, "We are very excited about being the first Native American facility in the US to offer this much needed program. This reflects our commitment to our community by offering the highest quality equipment, program and services. This has taken a long time to develop, but we are thrilled that we are finally here to help the kids."
Roberta Sam, Kid Fit Coach, says, "We are looking forward to introducing kids into fitness in a fun way and seeing the results the kids will experience with this new program. With the Kids PACE Express program, there is no intimidation or peer pressure since there are no weight stacks or muscle soreness. The hydraulic machines will match the effort of each child, so everyone will be working at their own pace. We expect to have lots of fun and to see lots of smiles and sweat."
For more information on the Te-Moak Diabetes program, contact Sharon Keams at 775-738-4881. For more information on the Kids PACE Express Circuit Training Program, contact Rande LaDue at 949-888-8045 or visit www.kidspaceexpress.com
Te-Moak Indian Diabetes Program Adds New Kid's Fitness Program to Help Fight Childhood Diabetes & Obesity
The Te-Moak Diabetes Program in Elko, NV has recently added the Kids PACE Express Circuit Training Program to its Kid Fit program to help combat childhood diabetes and obesity.
Trabuco Canyon, CA (PRWEB) August 7, 2008 -- Pro*Fit Enterprises, manufacturers of PACE and Kids PACE Express hydraulic circuit training programs announces that the Te-Moak Diabetes Program will become the first facility on an Indian reservation in the US with its kid's fitness program.
Rande LaDue, President of Pro*Fit (www.kidspaceexpress.com) says "We are proud that the Te-Moak Diabetes program has agreed to become a National Showcase Club for Kids PACE Express. I applaud Sharon Keams and her staff for their efforts to help fight childhood diabetes and obesity. We are raising a generation of unfit kids; childhood obesity has reached near epidemic levels, especially in Native American populations. Kids PE is designed to introduce kids ages 5-13 into a healthy fitness lifestyle in a safe, fun, non-intimidating program. Unlike scaled down weight stack machines for kids, Kids PE is very safe on growing bones and joints and offers a very high calorie burn in a fun "fitness musical chairs" format without muscle soreness or intimidation.
The two major keys to the success of this program are safety and fun. Obviously, a program for kids must first be safe. Kids PE equipment has been designed by medical, fitness and recreation professionals to ensure a safe effective program. Next, a program must be fun. If it's not fun, the kids will not stick with it; if it is fun, they will keep coming back and they will see results very quickly.
Sharon Keams, Assistant Coordinator of the Te-Moak Diabetes Program, says, "We are very excited about being the first Native American facility in the US to offer this much needed program. This reflects our commitment to our community by offering the highest quality equipment, program and services. This has taken a long time to develop, but we are thrilled that we are finally here to help the kids."
Roberta Sam, Kid Fit Coach, says, "We are looking forward to introducing kids into fitness in a fun way and seeing the results the kids will experience with this new program. With the Kids PACE Express program, there is no intimidation or peer pressure since there are no weight stacks or muscle soreness. The hydraulic machines will match the effort of each child, so everyone will be working at their own pace. We expect to have lots of fun and to see lots of smiles and sweat."
For more information on the Te-Moak Diabetes program, contact Sharon Keams at 775-738-4881. For more information on the Kids PACE Express Circuit Training Program, contact Rande LaDue at 949-888-8045 or visit www.kidspaceexpress.com
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
News: Kids launch potatoes at kayaker | kids, police, beach, hit, report - OCRegister.com
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/kids-police-beach-2114972-hit-report
A nearby resident told police the potatoes were aimed at a relative on the ocean.
A nearby resident told police the potatoes were aimed at a relative on the ocean.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
All Sports Trader Announces Online Trading and Information Platform
All Sports Trader Announces Online Trading and Information Platform
All Sports Trader has just launched its website www.allsportstrader.com, becoming the first online platform in Southern California for buying and selling sports equipment and sharing local sports information. As a gathering place for sports lovers from 8 to 80, Founder & CEO Pat Bockenstette believes that this type of online center is long overdue. “I wanted to provide a way to help kids, parents and sports-playing adults get the most of the sporting activities available to them in the local community,” says Mr. Bockenstette.
It all started in a garage, as many companies do. Mr. Bockenstette decided to do something about the vast accumulation of sporting goods in his garage from the multiple sports that he and his family had engaged in over the years. After trying to sell or give away the excess, he decided there had to be an easier way, and so the idea for All Sports Trader was born. He wanted to not only have an auction site where people could buy and sell their used (or new) sports equipment, but he also wanted a community information platform. The site’s community pages have links to tournaments, leagues, coaching, lessons, and ticket sources. “The Locker Room” is a social networking section, with a forum and blogs to discuss sports and current topics such as the Olympics. All Sports Trader constantly adds new content to the site on nearly every sport: baseball, football, basketball, soccer, tennis, golf, and even fishing and camping.
Why Southern California? “The local area is very rich in talented players in all major sports, and the wonderful climate allows all sports to be played year round,” says Mr. Bockenstette. “Entire families seem to be involved in sports here: kids, parents, and multiple generations — everything from Little League to senior leagues. This is the perfect place for an online resource like this.”
All Sports Trader’s mission is to provide new and unique services that will add value to the local sports community and fuel people’s passion for sports–at any age. The company is headquartered in Trabuco Canyon, CA, and is privately held.
All Sports Trader has just launched its website www.allsportstrader.com, becoming the first online platform in Southern California for buying and selling sports equipment and sharing local sports information. As a gathering place for sports lovers from 8 to 80, Founder & CEO Pat Bockenstette believes that this type of online center is long overdue. “I wanted to provide a way to help kids, parents and sports-playing adults get the most of the sporting activities available to them in the local community,” says Mr. Bockenstette.
It all started in a garage, as many companies do. Mr. Bockenstette decided to do something about the vast accumulation of sporting goods in his garage from the multiple sports that he and his family had engaged in over the years. After trying to sell or give away the excess, he decided there had to be an easier way, and so the idea for All Sports Trader was born. He wanted to not only have an auction site where people could buy and sell their used (or new) sports equipment, but he also wanted a community information platform. The site’s community pages have links to tournaments, leagues, coaching, lessons, and ticket sources. “The Locker Room” is a social networking section, with a forum and blogs to discuss sports and current topics such as the Olympics. All Sports Trader constantly adds new content to the site on nearly every sport: baseball, football, basketball, soccer, tennis, golf, and even fishing and camping.
Why Southern California? “The local area is very rich in talented players in all major sports, and the wonderful climate allows all sports to be played year round,” says Mr. Bockenstette. “Entire families seem to be involved in sports here: kids, parents, and multiple generations — everything from Little League to senior leagues. This is the perfect place for an online resource like this.”
All Sports Trader’s mission is to provide new and unique services that will add value to the local sports community and fuel people’s passion for sports–at any age. The company is headquartered in Trabuco Canyon, CA, and is privately held.
News: Fighting for 400 acres of Orange County's coast | company, welsh, people, activists, group - OCRegister.com
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/company-welsh-people-2112896-activists-group: "Fighting for 400 acres of Orange County's coast"
In a rented room at the Costa Mesa Community Center, Terry Welsh is rallying the troops.
Almost 1,500 people, he brags, have joined his group's fight to rescue a big chunk of coastal land slated for homes and shops.
Trouble is, this is the group's big kick-off fundraiser, and only 50 or so people have turned out. "Obviously," Welsh tells the crowd with a smile and a glance at empty seats, "they don't all show up to our meetings."
But that's all right. Welsh's Sierra Club-affiliated task force – formed almost a decade ago – is ready to get serious because, well, a developer is getting serious.
Later this month, a company is expected to submit plans for 1,375 homes, shops and an inn on a portion of Banning Ranch, one of the largest coastal areas in Orange County not covered with homes or explicitly spared from development.
Seeking to win over residents, the company has held two dozen townhalls and blanketed the city in fliers, arguing that housing and nature are compatible.
"We've been very candid about our plans," said Mike Mohler of Newport Banning Ranch LLC, a joint venture of three landowners.
Welsh's group, admittedly, has some catching up to do. That's the point of this community center fundraiser, a frugal affair where guests munch brownie bites and pay $2 for "Save Banning Ranch" bumper stickers.
Seemingly outgunned, Welsh urges optimism. "Rest comfortably that it's been done before," he says, pointing to grass-roots groups that largely blocked housing at Bolsa Chica.
The comparison, though, is a tad faulty. Unlike Bolsa Chica, which residents could always hike to or drive past on Pacific Coast Highway, Banning Ranch is private property encased by fencing and rugged hills. How do you generate excitement about something people can't see?
"This place is kind of out-of-sight for most people," Welsh concedes.
So, as activists fight back, the first step is letting people know Banning Ranch exists. The second step is convincing people it's worth keeping barren – something the company made a bit more difficult recently by mailing 35,000 fliers replete with images of rusty wells and corroded pipelines to hammer home the area's oil-drilling past and present.
Activists mock that portrayal, calling it a curious approach for a company that wants to sell homes on the land. "It's pretty interesting that they show people pictures of degraded land and say, 'You want to live here.'" said group member Margaret Royall.
Jokes aside, activists think they have the facts on their side. For one, there's the project's density – all those homes, shops and hotel rooms on a small part of the property.
Activists say the developer is being clever, perhaps proposing a huge project so it seems generous when things are scaled back. "They'll portray themselves as making a great sacrifice," Welsh said.
It's even possible, activists say, that the company is merely seeking big-time entitlements to boost the land's value before selling the property for preservation.
Mohler denies both suggestions, saying his company has "already made the sacrifices" by preserving more open space than required by Newport Beach, which plans to annex the site eventually.
While willing to sell, company executives say they doubt enough money can be obtained.
The Orange County Assessor values the land at about $41.5 million, but that doesn't account for oil cleanup costs or development potential. Appraisals are under way, and a previous estimate suggested a $225 million price tag, which activists label as vastly inflated.
Sharon Wood, assistant city manager in Newport, doubts the project can advance unless it shrinks. That's not because the city necessarily sees anything wrong with the project, she said, but because of California Coastal Commission prerogatives. "I don't think they will get it through the Coastal Commission with what they've proposed," she said.
Assume, though, the company is serious about the size of its development. Such a project would add 14,000 daily auto trips to local streets, a city estimate says.
Mohler said road improvements would absorb those cars, but activists have vowed to highlight congestion on nearby stretches of Pacific Coast Highway, Newport Boulevard and the 55 freeway.
Who's right in all this? That question awaits numerous studies and public hearings. The developer says it won't break ground for at least five years, and Wood says even that's probably "too optimistic."
In other words, Welsh's group has time. Time to build more support, and time to sell a whole lot more bumper stickers.
In a rented room at the Costa Mesa Community Center, Terry Welsh is rallying the troops.
Almost 1,500 people, he brags, have joined his group's fight to rescue a big chunk of coastal land slated for homes and shops.
Trouble is, this is the group's big kick-off fundraiser, and only 50 or so people have turned out. "Obviously," Welsh tells the crowd with a smile and a glance at empty seats, "they don't all show up to our meetings."
But that's all right. Welsh's Sierra Club-affiliated task force – formed almost a decade ago – is ready to get serious because, well, a developer is getting serious.
Later this month, a company is expected to submit plans for 1,375 homes, shops and an inn on a portion of Banning Ranch, one of the largest coastal areas in Orange County not covered with homes or explicitly spared from development.
Seeking to win over residents, the company has held two dozen townhalls and blanketed the city in fliers, arguing that housing and nature are compatible.
"We've been very candid about our plans," said Mike Mohler of Newport Banning Ranch LLC, a joint venture of three landowners.
Welsh's group, admittedly, has some catching up to do. That's the point of this community center fundraiser, a frugal affair where guests munch brownie bites and pay $2 for "Save Banning Ranch" bumper stickers.
Seemingly outgunned, Welsh urges optimism. "Rest comfortably that it's been done before," he says, pointing to grass-roots groups that largely blocked housing at Bolsa Chica.
The comparison, though, is a tad faulty. Unlike Bolsa Chica, which residents could always hike to or drive past on Pacific Coast Highway, Banning Ranch is private property encased by fencing and rugged hills. How do you generate excitement about something people can't see?
"This place is kind of out-of-sight for most people," Welsh concedes.
So, as activists fight back, the first step is letting people know Banning Ranch exists. The second step is convincing people it's worth keeping barren – something the company made a bit more difficult recently by mailing 35,000 fliers replete with images of rusty wells and corroded pipelines to hammer home the area's oil-drilling past and present.
Activists mock that portrayal, calling it a curious approach for a company that wants to sell homes on the land. "It's pretty interesting that they show people pictures of degraded land and say, 'You want to live here.'" said group member Margaret Royall.
Jokes aside, activists think they have the facts on their side. For one, there's the project's density – all those homes, shops and hotel rooms on a small part of the property.
Activists say the developer is being clever, perhaps proposing a huge project so it seems generous when things are scaled back. "They'll portray themselves as making a great sacrifice," Welsh said.
It's even possible, activists say, that the company is merely seeking big-time entitlements to boost the land's value before selling the property for preservation.
Mohler denies both suggestions, saying his company has "already made the sacrifices" by preserving more open space than required by Newport Beach, which plans to annex the site eventually.
While willing to sell, company executives say they doubt enough money can be obtained.
The Orange County Assessor values the land at about $41.5 million, but that doesn't account for oil cleanup costs or development potential. Appraisals are under way, and a previous estimate suggested a $225 million price tag, which activists label as vastly inflated.
Sharon Wood, assistant city manager in Newport, doubts the project can advance unless it shrinks. That's not because the city necessarily sees anything wrong with the project, she said, but because of California Coastal Commission prerogatives. "I don't think they will get it through the Coastal Commission with what they've proposed," she said.
Assume, though, the company is serious about the size of its development. Such a project would add 14,000 daily auto trips to local streets, a city estimate says.
Mohler said road improvements would absorb those cars, but activists have vowed to highlight congestion on nearby stretches of Pacific Coast Highway, Newport Boulevard and the 55 freeway.
Who's right in all this? That question awaits numerous studies and public hearings. The developer says it won't break ground for at least five years, and Wood says even that's probably "too optimistic."
In other words, Welsh's group has time. Time to build more support, and time to sell a whole lot more bumper stickers.
Friday, August 1, 2008
News: Aliso Viejo Little League advances | aliso, viejo, western, regional, league - OCRegister.com
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/aliso-viejo-western-2110724-regional-league
Bring on the dreams of stardom.
Can it really happen? The Aliso Viejo Little League Majors Division All-Star team is moving a small step forward toward every little-leaguer's fantasy: playing the Little Leauge World Series.
The Aliso Viejo Little League Majors Division All-Star team won the California Division 3 (Southern California) championship Sunday by sweeping Tustin Eastern in a best 2-of-3 series in Murrieta.
The victory advances Aliso Viejo to the Western Regional Tournament at San Bernardino's Al Haughton Stadium, with games beginning today through Aug. 10.
The Western Regional Tournament is the final step in qualifying for the Little League World Series, scheduled for Aug. 15-24, an event that has become a worldwide phenomenon with live television coverage of every game.
This is the farthest any Aliso Viejo team has ever advanced in the postseason.
"This is truly an exciting time for the Aliso Viejo Little League," said AVLL President Tony DeGruccio. "These kids are on a magical mission. We are very proud of these boys and hope they can continue to roll and keep the magic going!"
Aliso Viejo has posted a perfect 13-0 record en route to the Western Regionals. The squad won the District 55 and Section 10 championships to qualify for the regional.
Reporter Chris Caesar will follow all the fans and parents action at the game. Read his reports and view his photos here. Sports reporter Dan Albano will cover all the game action with results and post game highlights
Bring on the dreams of stardom.
Can it really happen? The Aliso Viejo Little League Majors Division All-Star team is moving a small step forward toward every little-leaguer's fantasy: playing the Little Leauge World Series.
The Aliso Viejo Little League Majors Division All-Star team won the California Division 3 (Southern California) championship Sunday by sweeping Tustin Eastern in a best 2-of-3 series in Murrieta.
The victory advances Aliso Viejo to the Western Regional Tournament at San Bernardino's Al Haughton Stadium, with games beginning today through Aug. 10.
The Western Regional Tournament is the final step in qualifying for the Little League World Series, scheduled for Aug. 15-24, an event that has become a worldwide phenomenon with live television coverage of every game.
This is the farthest any Aliso Viejo team has ever advanced in the postseason.
"This is truly an exciting time for the Aliso Viejo Little League," said AVLL President Tony DeGruccio. "These kids are on a magical mission. We are very proud of these boys and hope they can continue to roll and keep the magic going!"
Aliso Viejo has posted a perfect 13-0 record en route to the Western Regionals. The squad won the District 55 and Section 10 championships to qualify for the regional.
Reporter Chris Caesar will follow all the fans and parents action at the game. Read his reports and view his photos here. Sports reporter Dan Albano will cover all the game action with results and post game highlights
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