SNAPSHOTS INTO INVISIBLE FACES;
Why Kids Are So Often Invisible
Dear Readers:
I am introducing what I’m calling “Snapshots into Invisible Faces.” These will be gathered from what students have written in my class. It all came together one night when I was reading the “Amazing Grace” biography of William Wilberforce – who was an abolitionist and the primary parliamentary leader in beating down the slave trade – and its acceptability in England. He spent a majority of his life fighting this cause, which sucked his life away from him slowly. But he won – after years of dedication. Due to his diligence, the slave trade was abolished in 1807. Three days before he died in 1883 slavery was abolished in the British Colonies. As I was reading this, something sparked; it was the author’s explanation that had the English really known what was going on on the slave ships at sea and in their colonies, they would have been appalled and more readily agreeable to doing away with the horrors.
But they could not see. It’s was far away and for England, they were dealing with “invisible faces.” Often, that’s what happens with our kids. Their faces are invisible. They seem far away – South Central, Watts, below Pacific Avenue in San Pedro. We also have all these laws the government uses to protect their rights, so the general public can not see them. We don’t know who is in foster care. We don’t know who’s living in group homes. We don’t know who is up for adoption. And most of us, we have absolutely no idea what happening with the kids living in areas of poverty or crime. Should we care?
Americans are the most generous people in the world. If only they could see clearly, my gut says our world for our children would change for the betterment of their lives. But we can’t help, if we can’t see.
Here’s what one boy, a high school student, wrote in my class recently and his sense of helplessness to save other kids. I’m impressed after what I read that he still had values and that he still cared – despite the madness going on around him:
“Ever since I was born, I have lived in Wilmington. It’s not as bad as people think – or at least that’s what I thought. But then one day, I looked out my window and saw a man selling drugs to a seven-year-old. When I saw that I fell into shock. I couldn’t believe my eyes. I don’t know why but I felt this anger inside of me.
Then, just when I was coming to terms with that, I witnessed a bunch of gang members make these two elementary kids fight. They were fist-fighting while they were just laughing at them. I just felt like going out there and doing something, but I knew if I did something, I would have had problems later on. Since that incident I have seen the world in a whole different perspective. Between that and my family life, my brother has epilepsy, I believe this will shape my future world and the choices I will make.
My family consists of six members. It’s myself, my brother, my sister, my parents and my grandma. My father dropped out of school right after middle school. He didn’t want to school anymore; he was an alcoholic. It got so intense that he drank rubber alcohol. What made him stop is that one day he got into a really bad fight and was seriously wounded. Since that moment, he hasn’t drank alcohol for almost twenty years and like my mother, works extremely hard to help his family. My mom dropped out of second grade. Her reason of dropping out is more reasonable. She dropped out because she needed to help my grandma sell candies to some schools near by so their family could survive.”
Despite the hardships in his life, this student told me he plans to use his Spanish translation skills to help people after learning years of patience helping his epileptic brother, changing his diapers and taking showers and babysitting him when his mother and grandmother have to go out. He plans to go to college and study perhaps medicine. He’s currently in the College Bound program at the Boys and Girls Club. Perhaps when he becomes a professional, he will not be an invisible face.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Please Visit A Garage Sale This Saturday to Help a Family Whose Baby Girl Has Been Diagnosed with Leukemia
A gigantic garage sale -- with donors encouraged to bring along even more items for sale -- will be held Saturday in hopes of raising enough funds for a local family to run a bone marrow drive to save their nearly 2-year-old daughter.
A gigantic garage sale -- with donors encouraged to bring along even more items for sale -- will be held Saturday in hopes of raising enough funds for a local family to run a bone marrow drive to save their nearly 2-year-old daughter.
The event will be held at 1324 W. 26th Place in San Pedro starting at 6 a.m. by the friends of the Litton family. Friends and neighbors have amassed collectively to help fight leukemia and to save Jillian Luna, whose currently staying at Millers Childrens Hospital in Long Beach.
She was diagnosed with the illness in October 2007.
"We're inviting everyone we know (and hoping you will too) to our fundraising garage and bake sale for the Litton family on Saturday, December 1st," e-mailed the family hosting the event. "For those of you who may not know the Litton family personally, their daughter was recently diagnosed with Leukemia. She is currently going through her second round of chemotherapy.
"We are fundraising to help support the cost of running the bone marrow drives that have been set up (Torrance,December 14th and San Pedro, January 5th). We would love any and all the help we can get...We'll need help with everything from baking goodies, to setting up, to selling, to cleaning up. If you have things to donate, please call us or email us and we'll arrange how to get it to our house. The more the better. I'm so impressed by the way our community has come together for the Litton family, please help make this a success!"
"We are fundraising to help support the cost of running the bone marrow drives that have been set up (Torrance,December 14th and San Pedro, January 5th). We would love any and all the help we can get...We'll need help with everything from baking goodies, to setting up, to selling, to cleaning up. If you have things to donate, please call us or email us and we'll arrange how to get it to our house. The more the better. I'm so impressed by the way our community has come together for the Litton family, please help make this a success!"
For further information, please call 310 519 0163 and 310 702 6157.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Three Great Stories and just a Bit of Stitching in Time at 7th Street Elementary School Had Me Really Thinking: Principal Zan Colazas Has Some Fantastic Ideas of How to Make San Pedro A Better Place for Our Kids...and We Should All Be Helping Him
By Diana L. Chapman
It was one of those moments in time where either coincidence fell upon coincidence or someone higher up in the sky was moving the world of puppets to spark events and sew them together in a perfectly stunning pattern.
Call it divine intervention, coincidence or whatever you will, but something convinced me to walk inside 7th Street Elementary School and make a quick visit to principal Zan Colazas.
The silly thing was I really had no reason to. I was standing outside when the Dana Middle School PTO treasurer pulled up in her car. She was the person I needed to see so I could drop off some paperwork. She works at 7th Street.
But there she was pulling up at the same time I did and there was utterly no reason for me to go onto the campus. What do you think, I asked her, do you think Zan’s available? The Thanksgiving holidays were about to begin and as usual, I had many other things to do. “Sure, he’s there,” she said. “Just go say Hi.”
And I was so glad I did. Zan always has a good story to tell – but this day in particular, it seemed the match and the flint were there to spark some interesting discussions and get the fuel burning. Three pieces of news are coming out of 7th Street – from establishing an after school Italian club to starting a new pre-K program, much needed here.
First, Zan began to tell me how the Italian Consulate had offered up money to a bunch of schools to teach this beautiful romance language, which in my mind is riddled with accents of emotion and tradition and with so many Italian families living here, just a great gift to give to our kids.
Only two schools accepted their offer, the principal told me, and 7th Street jumped at the chance for the funding and partnered up with Taper Elementary School.
On the idea that its easier for younger children to learn and absorb a language, 7th Street asked all its 2nd and 3rd graders if they were interested in participating in the after school class. Out of about 140 students, 70 enrolled; twenty are on the waiting list, the principal explained.
Italian teacher Carmela Funicello will begin her first round of classes this Thursday and the principal revealed, he can’t even deal with the numerous late applicants. The response has been that overwhelming.
“You have to teach the kids early,” Zan said during our discussion who is a proponent of all students learningat least one second language or more. “As Americans, we neglect this part of our education.”
For me, this was thrilling news because I’m just getting underway to start an Italian After School Club at Dana Middle School, so I was enthusiastic that 7th Street kids could flow into Dana with quite a bit of Italian under their belt.
But Zan has bigger dreams – one I would love the community to step forward and help come to fruition.
He wants to build a Language magnet at his school, which makes so much sense in this area that this dream might even happen. If you think about the languages spoken in this town besides English: Spanish, Italian, Croatian and Greek (am I forgetting anything?) where students can actually learn to speak with folks who live here, this is so logical that we just need to do it.
In other phenomenal news for the school, Zan just received approval for his continued request to get the federally funded, SRDLP, in place. In words other than school jargon, this is basically an excellent program (one my son attended) that prepares four-year-olds for kindergarten, better known to most as Pre-K.
“We are so excited about our pre-K program because its going to help prepare our children and it will dovetail nicely into our academic program,” the principal explained.
Having my own son attend this program with the popular, and well-known-and- now-retired Jackie Terry at Bandini Elementary School, I found it to be one of the biggest gifts we ever received through public education.
While I received parenting classes through this program (which while I’d like to think I’m the perfect parent, I learned much better ways to handle things), my son was learning how to behave, how to read, how to discover art, the alphabet, music, books and a myriad of other educational attributes that helped him leap easily into kindergarten.
The program was unexpectedly offered up to 7th Street – after years of requests– and is likely to begin in the middle of the school year-- mid-February, so the school will be looking for students to sign up now. To survive, they need students and since I can stake my reputation on the educational advanatages of this program, I most certainly recommend parents begin signing up now!
Lastly, this made me laugh.
Zan, as usual, was offered the chance for his students to attend Clear Creek, an outdoor educational institution organized by the school district in the Angeles National Forest.
This year, all his teachers were extremely busy to leave the school for one week – especially those teachers already involved in similar outings to Catalina Island.
Rather than lose this chance, the principal decided he would take the kids himself to hike, learn about plants and stars, study weather, rocks and minerals and spend a week camping outdoors.
Being an administrator, it’s not something he’s done for awhile. But as usual, he’s game for trying anything to help his students. My question is just this: Can I go with my family?
Have a starry, heavenly night, Mr. Zan! And keep dreaming big when it comes to your kids.
By Diana L. Chapman
It was one of those moments in time where either coincidence fell upon coincidence or someone higher up in the sky was moving the world of puppets to spark events and sew them together in a perfectly stunning pattern.
Call it divine intervention, coincidence or whatever you will, but something convinced me to walk inside 7th Street Elementary School and make a quick visit to principal Zan Colazas.
The silly thing was I really had no reason to. I was standing outside when the Dana Middle School PTO treasurer pulled up in her car. She was the person I needed to see so I could drop off some paperwork. She works at 7th Street.
But there she was pulling up at the same time I did and there was utterly no reason for me to go onto the campus. What do you think, I asked her, do you think Zan’s available? The Thanksgiving holidays were about to begin and as usual, I had many other things to do. “Sure, he’s there,” she said. “Just go say Hi.”
And I was so glad I did. Zan always has a good story to tell – but this day in particular, it seemed the match and the flint were there to spark some interesting discussions and get the fuel burning. Three pieces of news are coming out of 7th Street – from establishing an after school Italian club to starting a new pre-K program, much needed here.
First, Zan began to tell me how the Italian Consulate had offered up money to a bunch of schools to teach this beautiful romance language, which in my mind is riddled with accents of emotion and tradition and with so many Italian families living here, just a great gift to give to our kids.
Only two schools accepted their offer, the principal told me, and 7th Street jumped at the chance for the funding and partnered up with Taper Elementary School.
On the idea that its easier for younger children to learn and absorb a language, 7th Street asked all its 2nd and 3rd graders if they were interested in participating in the after school class. Out of about 140 students, 70 enrolled; twenty are on the waiting list, the principal explained.
Italian teacher Carmela Funicello will begin her first round of classes this Thursday and the principal revealed, he can’t even deal with the numerous late applicants. The response has been that overwhelming.
“You have to teach the kids early,” Zan said during our discussion who is a proponent of all students learningat least one second language or more. “As Americans, we neglect this part of our education.”
For me, this was thrilling news because I’m just getting underway to start an Italian After School Club at Dana Middle School, so I was enthusiastic that 7th Street kids could flow into Dana with quite a bit of Italian under their belt.
But Zan has bigger dreams – one I would love the community to step forward and help come to fruition.
He wants to build a Language magnet at his school, which makes so much sense in this area that this dream might even happen. If you think about the languages spoken in this town besides English: Spanish, Italian, Croatian and Greek (am I forgetting anything?) where students can actually learn to speak with folks who live here, this is so logical that we just need to do it.
In other phenomenal news for the school, Zan just received approval for his continued request to get the federally funded, SRDLP, in place. In words other than school jargon, this is basically an excellent program (one my son attended) that prepares four-year-olds for kindergarten, better known to most as Pre-K.
“We are so excited about our pre-K program because its going to help prepare our children and it will dovetail nicely into our academic program,” the principal explained.
Having my own son attend this program with the popular, and well-known-and- now-retired Jackie Terry at Bandini Elementary School, I found it to be one of the biggest gifts we ever received through public education.
While I received parenting classes through this program (which while I’d like to think I’m the perfect parent, I learned much better ways to handle things), my son was learning how to behave, how to read, how to discover art, the alphabet, music, books and a myriad of other educational attributes that helped him leap easily into kindergarten.
The program was unexpectedly offered up to 7th Street – after years of requests– and is likely to begin in the middle of the school year-- mid-February, so the school will be looking for students to sign up now. To survive, they need students and since I can stake my reputation on the educational advanatages of this program, I most certainly recommend parents begin signing up now!
Lastly, this made me laugh.
Zan, as usual, was offered the chance for his students to attend Clear Creek, an outdoor educational institution organized by the school district in the Angeles National Forest.
This year, all his teachers were extremely busy to leave the school for one week – especially those teachers already involved in similar outings to Catalina Island.
Rather than lose this chance, the principal decided he would take the kids himself to hike, learn about plants and stars, study weather, rocks and minerals and spend a week camping outdoors.
Being an administrator, it’s not something he’s done for awhile. But as usual, he’s game for trying anything to help his students. My question is just this: Can I go with my family?
Have a starry, heavenly night, Mr. Zan! And keep dreaming big when it comes to your kids.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Truly Thankful, Kids who Never Get Listened Too Have a Lot to Say About Who They Thank -- Money, Clothes, Tennis Shoes and Most of All -- Their Moms: Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!
Dear Readers:
It will never fail to surprise me who turns in the best work at the Boys and Girl Club. I was shocked by some of the students extraordinary efforts in my writing class. What truly amazes me and what I'm extremely grateful for is to watch them grow. Some of these students couldn't write when they walked in my class. Some are special education. And some were brains from the moment I met them. What I love the most is they've showed me what I already believed, but believe more than ever now -- every kid has a gift, and it's up to the adults, to help them find them.
Here is what several kids wrote what they are Thankful for...
Dominick Olmeda: I am thankful for my family, my friends and the country I live in. I am thankful for my family because they provide a safe environment for me and provide other necessities for me. I am thankful for my friends because they are awesome and always help me when in need. I am thankful for my country because the U.S. gives everyone rights and protects those rights.
I am thankful for those things because I need them and they need me.
Jamanlya Arellano, 17
I am thankful that I’m still alive. I’m thankful that I haven’t gotten into more bloody fights. I thank God that my mom is still here. I thank God that LT (the football killer who was recentlykilled) is safe up there. I’m thankful that my mom is watching out for me. I’m thankful for my friends. I’m thankful that I’m not in juvenile hall. I am thankful that my family is still together. I am thankful for my grandmother being here. I am thankful for my older brother being a father to me. Most of all, I am thankful for people hearing me.
I thank God that LT is in a safe place and not in the place we call hell. LT, I don’t know why you were the one to go. My blood became white as snow. When I heard about you, I thought that’s not fair. They took you away and they don’t even care. You were one of my homies and every one misses you…There’s too much pain in my heart thinking about you LaTerian. I wish you were still here to turn 18. You were one of the good guys. You turned your life around. Your death brought a lot of people down. I’m gonna’ make sure I get on the football team for you and I’m going to make sure to make sure that you are proud of me.
By Shelly DeLeon
You were there when I cried.
You were there in bad times.
You were there when I smiled, when I had a cold an to make me laugh.
You were there. You were everything to me, my best friend and the love of my life.
You were part of me, part of something I would miss dearly if ever taken away. You were the someone that I need in my life. I am happy and sad at the same time because you have been take away from me. I miss your hugs, your smiles, your laugh, the way you looked at me when you knew something was wrong.
But ever since, we haven’t talked, ever since we haven’t smiled or laughed, it’s been hard and different.
But I thank you every day for teaching me right from wrong, bad from good, to know what to do when things are bad. Thank you.
The person I speak about is a friend, Martin Garnica.
By Amani Holmes: I'm Thankful for My Thoughts & My Mom
I am thankful for my thoughts, because without them I would be ignorant. And I would end up doing ignorant stuff.
My thoughts keep me alert, because if my friends wanted me to do something crazy without thinking, I would probably do it. When I have no one to talk to, my thoughts keep me occupied. I always think of ways to improve myself or create. And creating is my life!
I love creating stories, poems, dances and art projects. I would be none of this without my thoughts. If a really hot guy said come with me: without thinking I would go. My favorite saying is: “I’d rather regret the things I’ve done rather than not doing things at all.”
My thoughts are a personal gift just made for me!
I am also grateful for my mom. She has been there through all my crap. Because even though I’ve talked back, got in trouble in school, purposely disobeyed her, said I’ve hated her, etc., she still loves me.
And even if she cusses me out, goes bipolar on me, makes up stupid rules, makes me wash the dishes, etc, I still find a way to love her back.
She keeps me in a safe place even when I’m not. We can be stubborn to each other. We can yell at each other. But in the end, we’re all that we have – each other…My mom is crazy. She makes me crazy. We make each other crazy. But without her stupid/funny/loud crazy, I would be a boring/shy/quiet person.
I love my life. I love my thoughts. And most of all, I love my Mom.
Go Boys and Girls Club!
Taryn Bedley:
I am thankful for a lot of things, one of the things I am thankful for is still being alive and being able to wake up every morning without any problems. I am thankful for having a supportive and loving family. One person I am thankful for is my Nana. I love her so much. I can talk to her about anything and tell her everything. Another person is Tonya. She’s always there for me and she always supports me and I love her like she's my mom.
I am also thankful for my mom even though she’s not here anymore. I remember everything she taught while she was here. I am also thankful for her because she’s the one who brought me in this world and I would be nothing without her help. I am also thankful for basketball, where it feels like all my problems go away. I am also thankful for my Dad, because he’s always there for me and he keeps me in line. He’s always strict on me, because he wants me to be successful in life and succeed in whatever I do. I am thankful for a lot more than that, but these are some of the things I’m most thankful for.
Tizvan Clinton:
I am thankful for my mom. I am thankful for my whole family. I am thankful that God wakes me every morning. I am thankful for my skills in basketball and football. I am thankful that I have a good meal every night. I am thankful that I have a good mom. I am thankful for bad things that happen to me because I think it only makes me stronger. I am thankful for everything I get because the kids in Africa, some of them are born with AIDS.
Glenn Hawkins, 15,
I’m thankful for the fact that I am able to use my imagination to draw these creatures:
(Glenn drew a beautiful cartoon creature here, which I could not post -- Diana).
I am thankful for my mom, because she never gives up on me, like everyone else does. When I mess up, she tells me how to fix it rather than laughing at me like everyone else does. She helps me to become stronger, smarter and an even better person. She appreciates my art work when everyone else mocks them. When other people try to destroy my inner heart, she’s there to help me through it all. Without my mom, I have no idea where I’d be. Thank GOD my mom is still here.
I also thankful for my English teacher, because she was the third person to believe in me. She believes that I am not what everyone else says I am. She believes I can succeed in my dreams of becoming a chef. I am thankful for Mrs. Williamson for helping me to learn how to cook more elaborately.”
Zeke Walton: I am thankful for: friends, family, life, clothes, shoes, games, phones, computers, TV, sports.
I am thankful for my family because they are always they and they are always supportive;
I am thankful for my friends because they are always there when I need them.
I am thankful for life, because I don’t when it could be my last.
I am thankful for clothes…
Austin White:
I am thankful for my family because they are awesome and I love ‘em all. I’m thankful for my friends because they are the best and they’ve got my back no matter what. I am very, very thankful for food because I’m fat and I eat too much, but it’s all a good because I never get fatter. I am thankful for phones because when I’m away from mine I want to cry. Also, I am thankful for my Ipod because I have separation anxiety and I miss it a lot. And I’m thankful for my shoes even though I don’t wear them unless I have two/too. And I’m thankful for cars, because I like to drive. And I’m thankful for MONEY
Because without it I wouldn’t be anything and I would be broke. And I’m thankful for being a happy person because being sad or mad is too much work.
Dear Readers:
It will never fail to surprise me who turns in the best work at the Boys and Girl Club. I was shocked by some of the students extraordinary efforts in my writing class. What truly amazes me and what I'm extremely grateful for is to watch them grow. Some of these students couldn't write when they walked in my class. Some are special education. And some were brains from the moment I met them. What I love the most is they've showed me what I already believed, but believe more than ever now -- every kid has a gift, and it's up to the adults, to help them find them.
Here is what several kids wrote what they are Thankful for...
Dominick Olmeda: I am thankful for my family, my friends and the country I live in. I am thankful for my family because they provide a safe environment for me and provide other necessities for me. I am thankful for my friends because they are awesome and always help me when in need. I am thankful for my country because the U.S. gives everyone rights and protects those rights.
I am thankful for those things because I need them and they need me.
Jamanlya Arellano, 17
I am thankful that I’m still alive. I’m thankful that I haven’t gotten into more bloody fights. I thank God that my mom is still here. I thank God that LT (the football killer who was recentlykilled) is safe up there. I’m thankful that my mom is watching out for me. I’m thankful for my friends. I’m thankful that I’m not in juvenile hall. I am thankful that my family is still together. I am thankful for my grandmother being here. I am thankful for my older brother being a father to me. Most of all, I am thankful for people hearing me.
I thank God that LT is in a safe place and not in the place we call hell. LT, I don’t know why you were the one to go. My blood became white as snow. When I heard about you, I thought that’s not fair. They took you away and they don’t even care. You were one of my homies and every one misses you…There’s too much pain in my heart thinking about you LaTerian. I wish you were still here to turn 18. You were one of the good guys. You turned your life around. Your death brought a lot of people down. I’m gonna’ make sure I get on the football team for you and I’m going to make sure to make sure that you are proud of me.
By Shelly DeLeon
You were there when I cried.
You were there in bad times.
You were there when I smiled, when I had a cold an to make me laugh.
You were there. You were everything to me, my best friend and the love of my life.
You were part of me, part of something I would miss dearly if ever taken away. You were the someone that I need in my life. I am happy and sad at the same time because you have been take away from me. I miss your hugs, your smiles, your laugh, the way you looked at me when you knew something was wrong.
But ever since, we haven’t talked, ever since we haven’t smiled or laughed, it’s been hard and different.
But I thank you every day for teaching me right from wrong, bad from good, to know what to do when things are bad. Thank you.
The person I speak about is a friend, Martin Garnica.
By Amani Holmes: I'm Thankful for My Thoughts & My Mom
I am thankful for my thoughts, because without them I would be ignorant. And I would end up doing ignorant stuff.
My thoughts keep me alert, because if my friends wanted me to do something crazy without thinking, I would probably do it. When I have no one to talk to, my thoughts keep me occupied. I always think of ways to improve myself or create. And creating is my life!
I love creating stories, poems, dances and art projects. I would be none of this without my thoughts. If a really hot guy said come with me: without thinking I would go. My favorite saying is: “I’d rather regret the things I’ve done rather than not doing things at all.”
My thoughts are a personal gift just made for me!
I am also grateful for my mom. She has been there through all my crap. Because even though I’ve talked back, got in trouble in school, purposely disobeyed her, said I’ve hated her, etc., she still loves me.
And even if she cusses me out, goes bipolar on me, makes up stupid rules, makes me wash the dishes, etc, I still find a way to love her back.
She keeps me in a safe place even when I’m not. We can be stubborn to each other. We can yell at each other. But in the end, we’re all that we have – each other…My mom is crazy. She makes me crazy. We make each other crazy. But without her stupid/funny/loud crazy, I would be a boring/shy/quiet person.
I love my life. I love my thoughts. And most of all, I love my Mom.
Go Boys and Girls Club!
Taryn Bedley:
I am thankful for a lot of things, one of the things I am thankful for is still being alive and being able to wake up every morning without any problems. I am thankful for having a supportive and loving family. One person I am thankful for is my Nana. I love her so much. I can talk to her about anything and tell her everything. Another person is Tonya. She’s always there for me and she always supports me and I love her like she's my mom.
I am also thankful for my mom even though she’s not here anymore. I remember everything she taught while she was here. I am also thankful for her because she’s the one who brought me in this world and I would be nothing without her help. I am also thankful for basketball, where it feels like all my problems go away. I am also thankful for my Dad, because he’s always there for me and he keeps me in line. He’s always strict on me, because he wants me to be successful in life and succeed in whatever I do. I am thankful for a lot more than that, but these are some of the things I’m most thankful for.
Tizvan Clinton:
I am thankful for my mom. I am thankful for my whole family. I am thankful that God wakes me every morning. I am thankful for my skills in basketball and football. I am thankful that I have a good meal every night. I am thankful that I have a good mom. I am thankful for bad things that happen to me because I think it only makes me stronger. I am thankful for everything I get because the kids in Africa, some of them are born with AIDS.
Glenn Hawkins, 15,
I’m thankful for the fact that I am able to use my imagination to draw these creatures:
(Glenn drew a beautiful cartoon creature here, which I could not post -- Diana).
I am thankful for my mom, because she never gives up on me, like everyone else does. When I mess up, she tells me how to fix it rather than laughing at me like everyone else does. She helps me to become stronger, smarter and an even better person. She appreciates my art work when everyone else mocks them. When other people try to destroy my inner heart, she’s there to help me through it all. Without my mom, I have no idea where I’d be. Thank GOD my mom is still here.
I also thankful for my English teacher, because she was the third person to believe in me. She believes that I am not what everyone else says I am. She believes I can succeed in my dreams of becoming a chef. I am thankful for Mrs. Williamson for helping me to learn how to cook more elaborately.”
Zeke Walton: I am thankful for: friends, family, life, clothes, shoes, games, phones, computers, TV, sports.
I am thankful for my family because they are always they and they are always supportive;
I am thankful for my friends because they are always there when I need them.
I am thankful for life, because I don’t when it could be my last.
I am thankful for clothes…
Austin White:
I am thankful for my family because they are awesome and I love ‘em all. I’m thankful for my friends because they are the best and they’ve got my back no matter what. I am very, very thankful for food because I’m fat and I eat too much, but it’s all a good because I never get fatter. I am thankful for phones because when I’m away from mine I want to cry. Also, I am thankful for my Ipod because I have separation anxiety and I miss it a lot. And I’m thankful for my shoes even though I don’t wear them unless I have two/too. And I’m thankful for cars, because I like to drive. And I’m thankful for MONEY
Because without it I wouldn’t be anything and I would be broke. And I’m thankful for being a happy person because being sad or mad is too much work.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Dana Cooking Club students with the help of San Pedro High Whip up some Tasty treats...San Pedro High Culinary Teacher, bottom right, takes on the middle school students to teach them life skills.
Two Schools, Several bowls, Towels, Spatulas and Dozens of Rice Krispie Treats Later, a San Pedro High Teacher Whips Up One Fantastic Recipe for Life
By Diana L. Chapman
There was a frenzy of action, plenty of giggles, older kids teaching younger kids and a loud yelp from one little girl that echoed over all the rolling waves of chatter.
“I love to cook!” she exclaimed.
The spatulas were out.
The bowls and pans were ready. And students from Dana Middle School excitedly entered a marriage of the most extraordinary and blissful kind. They are learning life skills after school – how to cook – at San Pedro High School through the creative and wizard-like efforts from high school culinary teacher Sandy Wood.
An after school cooking club was established – and launched its first enthusiastic efforts this month as 20 middle school students walked to the high school and will do so nearly every Friday. The youths poured into the cooking classroom like an excited frenzy of ants around sugar and learned some special rules from their teacher.
“There are rules,” she told the group that was so intent in their class they barely moved while listening. “Knives are not swords. You have to wear an apron. Your hair has to be pulled back. And when you wash your hands, you should sing “Happy Birthday to Me” twice and use hot water.
“Got it?”
The Dana students did and in their glory, they learned to melt a ¼ cup of butter, fold in and melt three cups of baby marshmallows with it and add 3 1/2 cups of Rice Krispies.
They melted, they poured, they mixed and voila – squares and squares of Rice Krispie treats dotted with colorful M&Ms were ready to eat and/or take home.
One mother was particularly delighted with the turn out she revealed later that week..
“Chris has made Rice Krispie treats three times since the class,” his mother chortled – and added that he was experimenting with chocolate syrup on top – until the family demanded just a few plain treats.
Dana’s cooking club comes under the middle school’s pilot programming to bring after school interests to the middle school campus. So far, Dana has started a program in art (using the non-profit Art to Grow on projects), a junior police explorer club, basketball, dance movement and a swim club with future programming projected to include: song writing, tennis, sailing and foreign languages, from Spanish to Italian.
Called L.A. Network for Kids, use of the clubs are being explored to encourage students to stay off the streets, explore interests that might encourage them toward future careers and in a school of hundreds of students, to find friends in smaller-style communities.
When contacted, Sandy Wood readily agreed to run the program which will later include classes from Mona Sutton, the owner of San Pedro's the Omelette and Waffle Shop.
“Why am I doing this?” Sandy Wood said when queried. “The food service industry is one of the fastest growing segments of jobs in the U.S. We need more and more trained people because more people are eating out. There’s two parents working in families, kids are in extracurricular activities and now we have a wonderful opportunity to introduce students to cooking.”
Using the help of her top culinary high school students , Sandy had them fan out to different tables to show all the students how to make the Rice Krispie recipe and then how to clean up. The younger students enjoyed visiting both their future school and working with the older students.
“This is just so fun, because I worked with my friends,” said 13-year-old Lauren Beck, who quickly pointed out while she was washing dishes that her older brother was one of the cooking teacher’s student helpers. “I didn’t know things like ingredients and stuff.”
By the end of the class, the middle school students were washing down tables, sweeping floors, and packing up their treats to take home. Many parents are hoping this will translate into help at home – and perhaps even future culinary careers for their children.
“It’s a good thing,” the teacher said. “The students were enthusiastic and they were well behaved.”
And one of the number one lessons, she told the students was this: “Don’t be impatient. A lot about cooking is just patience.”
For more information regarding the cooking club or other Dana clubs, call Dana Middle School at (310) 241-1100 and leave a message in the main office.
By Diana L. Chapman
There was a frenzy of action, plenty of giggles, older kids teaching younger kids and a loud yelp from one little girl that echoed over all the rolling waves of chatter.
“I love to cook!” she exclaimed.
The spatulas were out.
The bowls and pans were ready. And students from Dana Middle School excitedly entered a marriage of the most extraordinary and blissful kind. They are learning life skills after school – how to cook – at San Pedro High School through the creative and wizard-like efforts from high school culinary teacher Sandy Wood.
An after school cooking club was established – and launched its first enthusiastic efforts this month as 20 middle school students walked to the high school and will do so nearly every Friday. The youths poured into the cooking classroom like an excited frenzy of ants around sugar and learned some special rules from their teacher.
“There are rules,” she told the group that was so intent in their class they barely moved while listening. “Knives are not swords. You have to wear an apron. Your hair has to be pulled back. And when you wash your hands, you should sing “Happy Birthday to Me” twice and use hot water.
“Got it?”
The Dana students did and in their glory, they learned to melt a ¼ cup of butter, fold in and melt three cups of baby marshmallows with it and add 3 1/2 cups of Rice Krispies.
They melted, they poured, they mixed and voila – squares and squares of Rice Krispie treats dotted with colorful M&Ms were ready to eat and/or take home.
One mother was particularly delighted with the turn out she revealed later that week..
“Chris has made Rice Krispie treats three times since the class,” his mother chortled – and added that he was experimenting with chocolate syrup on top – until the family demanded just a few plain treats.
Dana’s cooking club comes under the middle school’s pilot programming to bring after school interests to the middle school campus. So far, Dana has started a program in art (using the non-profit Art to Grow on projects), a junior police explorer club, basketball, dance movement and a swim club with future programming projected to include: song writing, tennis, sailing and foreign languages, from Spanish to Italian.
Called L.A. Network for Kids, use of the clubs are being explored to encourage students to stay off the streets, explore interests that might encourage them toward future careers and in a school of hundreds of students, to find friends in smaller-style communities.
When contacted, Sandy Wood readily agreed to run the program which will later include classes from Mona Sutton, the owner of San Pedro's the Omelette and Waffle Shop.
“Why am I doing this?” Sandy Wood said when queried. “The food service industry is one of the fastest growing segments of jobs in the U.S. We need more and more trained people because more people are eating out. There’s two parents working in families, kids are in extracurricular activities and now we have a wonderful opportunity to introduce students to cooking.”
Using the help of her top culinary high school students , Sandy had them fan out to different tables to show all the students how to make the Rice Krispie recipe and then how to clean up. The younger students enjoyed visiting both their future school and working with the older students.
“This is just so fun, because I worked with my friends,” said 13-year-old Lauren Beck, who quickly pointed out while she was washing dishes that her older brother was one of the cooking teacher’s student helpers. “I didn’t know things like ingredients and stuff.”
By the end of the class, the middle school students were washing down tables, sweeping floors, and packing up their treats to take home. Many parents are hoping this will translate into help at home – and perhaps even future culinary careers for their children.
“It’s a good thing,” the teacher said. “The students were enthusiastic and they were well behaved.”
And one of the number one lessons, she told the students was this: “Don’t be impatient. A lot about cooking is just patience.”
For more information regarding the cooking club or other Dana clubs, call Dana Middle School at (310) 241-1100 and leave a message in the main office.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
The Biggest Gift My Parents Ever Gave Me:
A Clean Slate & Tolerance
By Diana L. Chapman
When I was growing up, Martin Luther King Jr. was shot and killed. So was our President, JFK. And not long after, Senator Robert F. Kennedy.
The times were volatile, an emotional heart-twist of steely pain. And as just a little sprite, it was hard for me to understand why my mother sat and sobbed day after day, all day and all night long, while we watched funeral caskets go by on every single television station, one after another, when we were living first in Seattle and then later Montreal. Where were my cartoons, I demanded?
Where were the cartoon heroes, I yelped, as I switched from channel to channel only to see throngs of people as the caskets glided by? Where was the Underdog? Superman? Batman?
What I didn’t understand at the time was the people who died -- those were my parents heroes. They all stood for a symbol – a simple one – that mankind needed to grow up and learn one of the most crucial words in the English dictionary: tolerance. It seems that they died for that – a treasure that just like freedom is not free. It’s something to work for and build toward.
My parents taught us tolerance. We weren’t allowed to call other kids names or treat anyone without the utmost kindness. My mom would call us in to watch commercials trying to fight against prejudice; the one that still remains with me was a white boy playing happily with an African-American boy until the white youngster's mother arrived. She immediately raced over, grabbed her son and yelled for him to stay away. The boys both cried, because they had no idea what they had done. My mom would shake her head with disdain and indicate that she would never do such a thing. We were free to be friends with those we picked.
It was never race they determined ourfriendships on; it was the character of the individual
We were so well trained not to be prejudice, that as it slowly seeped out when we were older that my parents weren’t perfect, it stunned us. They still were carrying a lot of old scars from World War II and had hidden their feelings from us, tucking them away like a squirrel hording nuts.
We did not hear about their prejudices until we were in our teen years, starting at perhaps, the age of 15. By that time, they began to share and reveal their true feelings. It always came up around the subject of World War II.
They still carried horrible feelings toward the Germans, and we couldn’t later in life even talk about the Japanese for quite some time. But by this time, we were old enough to debate their feelings and tell them how silly they were being.
And perhaps their emotions were somewaht understandable.
Besides losing scores of friends and relatives during WWII, my mother’s brother died when Germans shot his plane down over England when he served for the Canadian Royal Air Force. Her brother was the red-headed 19-year-old, the oldest in her clan, and the leader in the family.
But his days were shortened and lost in the winds, shadowed long ago and embedded in a cemetery somewhere in a long and forgotten countryside of England – far, far away from the lands where he was born and where his family could visit. We actually visited there recently with our own son – and we’re able to understand how all these soldiers died to make us free.
My mother’s Dad, served in the Canadian military during World War I, was buried alive when Germans bombed and used mustard gas. Ironically, a German doctor worked diligently to save his life, a story that was routinely repeated and passed down through the family because it seemed my mother’s family couldn’t fathom why that doctor turned into such a hero for them when he held the life of an enemy in his hands.
Yes, my parents grew up with many prejudices. But they did not share them with us. So the three daughters ventured into life, innocent babes in a distraught world, with a clean slate – and we never really understood the anxiety of the blacks, the hatred toward American Indians, the slander and libel of the Jews.
We were free. Not because we were white, but because my parents made it so. They didn’t germ us or gum us up with their own prejudices.
The day that this became so crystal clear and was like a lightning bolt for me was on a visit to Belize, a beautiful Central-American country once called British Honduras, a land lush with tropic jungles and hundreds of islands dotting a turquoise sea.
While on the island of Ambergris Caye, we met a southern American couple. Belize, with a large black population that came down from the tides of slavery, exists as a giant mix of descendants from English and Scottish pirates, and generations of Chinese, ancient Mayans, Guatemalans, and slaves that had fled from all over the United States and other Caribbean Islands.
It was about 90 percent black when we met these southerners in the late 1980s and we were taken aback when they old us, that blacks and whites should be together in the United States, but not mixed. We should live separately, they said.
I was confused and so was my husband. If they felt this way, I asked them, then why of all places would they come to Belize -- a place that was one of the biggest melting pots since America ever came along? Perhaps even more so.
I’ll never forget the words the man etched in my brain in those moments. “Those are my feelings,” the southern man said. “I learned it from my father. He learned it from his father. And he learned it from his father. It’s the right way. It’s passed down through the generations. That’s the way I was brought up and that’s the same way my son will be brought up.”
I didn’t have the guts to ask him: “But what if that’s not the right way to be brought up?”
All of these lessons gave me the greatest gifts to handle students questions during my writing workshops. One of my 13-year-old students wrote: “I like to play basketball, but I feel that when I play I’m living up to the black stereotype everybody wants me to.
I’m tall, black and know how to make a lay-up. They (people) feel that African-Americans can only be athletes, and entertainers. Why not a doctor, songwriter, president, chef, scientist and a director?”
This is what I wrote back: “You are so right! You are black! You are tall! You can play basketball. But as you know, you can become a doctor, a lawyer, a song writer and even a president. The last person in the world that probably anyone would of thought to become the president of the United States at your age was Abe Lincoln. Why?
“He had no formal education. He was extremely tall and gangly – and, many people thought he was ugly. Did he prove the world wrong? You bet he did. And so can you.”
So can we all. Start with this: give your child as best as you can – a clean slate and the biggest gift of all – a simple word in the English dictionary: a word called tolerance.
A Clean Slate & Tolerance
By Diana L. Chapman
When I was growing up, Martin Luther King Jr. was shot and killed. So was our President, JFK. And not long after, Senator Robert F. Kennedy.
The times were volatile, an emotional heart-twist of steely pain. And as just a little sprite, it was hard for me to understand why my mother sat and sobbed day after day, all day and all night long, while we watched funeral caskets go by on every single television station, one after another, when we were living first in Seattle and then later Montreal. Where were my cartoons, I demanded?
Where were the cartoon heroes, I yelped, as I switched from channel to channel only to see throngs of people as the caskets glided by? Where was the Underdog? Superman? Batman?
What I didn’t understand at the time was the people who died -- those were my parents heroes. They all stood for a symbol – a simple one – that mankind needed to grow up and learn one of the most crucial words in the English dictionary: tolerance. It seems that they died for that – a treasure that just like freedom is not free. It’s something to work for and build toward.
My parents taught us tolerance. We weren’t allowed to call other kids names or treat anyone without the utmost kindness. My mom would call us in to watch commercials trying to fight against prejudice; the one that still remains with me was a white boy playing happily with an African-American boy until the white youngster's mother arrived. She immediately raced over, grabbed her son and yelled for him to stay away. The boys both cried, because they had no idea what they had done. My mom would shake her head with disdain and indicate that she would never do such a thing. We were free to be friends with those we picked.
It was never race they determined ourfriendships on; it was the character of the individual
We were so well trained not to be prejudice, that as it slowly seeped out when we were older that my parents weren’t perfect, it stunned us. They still were carrying a lot of old scars from World War II and had hidden their feelings from us, tucking them away like a squirrel hording nuts.
We did not hear about their prejudices until we were in our teen years, starting at perhaps, the age of 15. By that time, they began to share and reveal their true feelings. It always came up around the subject of World War II.
They still carried horrible feelings toward the Germans, and we couldn’t later in life even talk about the Japanese for quite some time. But by this time, we were old enough to debate their feelings and tell them how silly they were being.
And perhaps their emotions were somewaht understandable.
Besides losing scores of friends and relatives during WWII, my mother’s brother died when Germans shot his plane down over England when he served for the Canadian Royal Air Force. Her brother was the red-headed 19-year-old, the oldest in her clan, and the leader in the family.
But his days were shortened and lost in the winds, shadowed long ago and embedded in a cemetery somewhere in a long and forgotten countryside of England – far, far away from the lands where he was born and where his family could visit. We actually visited there recently with our own son – and we’re able to understand how all these soldiers died to make us free.
My mother’s Dad, served in the Canadian military during World War I, was buried alive when Germans bombed and used mustard gas. Ironically, a German doctor worked diligently to save his life, a story that was routinely repeated and passed down through the family because it seemed my mother’s family couldn’t fathom why that doctor turned into such a hero for them when he held the life of an enemy in his hands.
Yes, my parents grew up with many prejudices. But they did not share them with us. So the three daughters ventured into life, innocent babes in a distraught world, with a clean slate – and we never really understood the anxiety of the blacks, the hatred toward American Indians, the slander and libel of the Jews.
We were free. Not because we were white, but because my parents made it so. They didn’t germ us or gum us up with their own prejudices.
The day that this became so crystal clear and was like a lightning bolt for me was on a visit to Belize, a beautiful Central-American country once called British Honduras, a land lush with tropic jungles and hundreds of islands dotting a turquoise sea.
While on the island of Ambergris Caye, we met a southern American couple. Belize, with a large black population that came down from the tides of slavery, exists as a giant mix of descendants from English and Scottish pirates, and generations of Chinese, ancient Mayans, Guatemalans, and slaves that had fled from all over the United States and other Caribbean Islands.
It was about 90 percent black when we met these southerners in the late 1980s and we were taken aback when they old us, that blacks and whites should be together in the United States, but not mixed. We should live separately, they said.
I was confused and so was my husband. If they felt this way, I asked them, then why of all places would they come to Belize -- a place that was one of the biggest melting pots since America ever came along? Perhaps even more so.
I’ll never forget the words the man etched in my brain in those moments. “Those are my feelings,” the southern man said. “I learned it from my father. He learned it from his father. And he learned it from his father. It’s the right way. It’s passed down through the generations. That’s the way I was brought up and that’s the same way my son will be brought up.”
I didn’t have the guts to ask him: “But what if that’s not the right way to be brought up?”
All of these lessons gave me the greatest gifts to handle students questions during my writing workshops. One of my 13-year-old students wrote: “I like to play basketball, but I feel that when I play I’m living up to the black stereotype everybody wants me to.
I’m tall, black and know how to make a lay-up. They (people) feel that African-Americans can only be athletes, and entertainers. Why not a doctor, songwriter, president, chef, scientist and a director?”
This is what I wrote back: “You are so right! You are black! You are tall! You can play basketball. But as you know, you can become a doctor, a lawyer, a song writer and even a president. The last person in the world that probably anyone would of thought to become the president of the United States at your age was Abe Lincoln. Why?
“He had no formal education. He was extremely tall and gangly – and, many people thought he was ugly. Did he prove the world wrong? You bet he did. And so can you.”
So can we all. Start with this: give your child as best as you can – a clean slate and the biggest gift of all – a simple word in the English dictionary: a word called tolerance.
Community Happenings:
Pediatric Clinic Expands Hours
The Harbor Community Pediatric Clinic expanded its hours to include opening for youngsters on Friday.
Additional hours are part of the ongoing efforts of the clinic to enhance its operations for the community to ensure health benefits for children and adults.
On the first Friday the clinic opened in mid-October, Dr. Orawan Sitburana, the new, part-time pediatrician, was busy treating children the entire day.
“We are fortunate to have her,” said Michele Ruple, the clinic's executive director. “On our first Friday, Dr. Sitburana treated 12 patients. These are 12 kids that would have gone untreated.”
Clinic hours are now 9 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Reach the pediatric center by calling: 310-732-5887. The location: 731 S. Beacon Street, San Pedro.
***
The San Pedro Chamber Presents the 11th Annual Teen Conference: Teens At The Table - “Bridges to Success”
Trying to prevent more teenagers from dropping out of high school, the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce announced its 11th annual teen conference.
To be held Tuesday, Nov. 27, from 8 to 1:30 p.m., the chamber plans to help 9th grade students “overcome obstacles to success and develop career paths; thus reducing the chance they will become a drop out statistic,” according to a chamber press release.
This year’s conference – as all the past conferences have – work toward mentoring and supporting teens and is in need of sponsors for the event.
It will be held at the Double Tree Hotel, 2800 Cabrillo Marina Way.
Organizations invited to join the conference include: San Pedro High School, Mary Star of the Sea High School, Port of Los Angeles High School, Rolling Hills Preparatory School, Harbor Occupational Center, Harbor Boys & Girls Clubs, LA Bridges (Toberman House Youth Program), San Pedro Youth Coalition, San Pedro & Peninsula YMCA and the YWCA of the Harbor Area.
Please call Sandy Bradley, the chamber’s chair of the Business-Education-Arts Committee at (310)- 940-9316 for further information.
Pediatric Clinic Expands Hours
The Harbor Community Pediatric Clinic expanded its hours to include opening for youngsters on Friday.
Additional hours are part of the ongoing efforts of the clinic to enhance its operations for the community to ensure health benefits for children and adults.
On the first Friday the clinic opened in mid-October, Dr. Orawan Sitburana, the new, part-time pediatrician, was busy treating children the entire day.
“We are fortunate to have her,” said Michele Ruple, the clinic's executive director. “On our first Friday, Dr. Sitburana treated 12 patients. These are 12 kids that would have gone untreated.”
Clinic hours are now 9 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Reach the pediatric center by calling: 310-732-5887. The location: 731 S. Beacon Street, San Pedro.
***
The San Pedro Chamber Presents the 11th Annual Teen Conference: Teens At The Table - “Bridges to Success”
Trying to prevent more teenagers from dropping out of high school, the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce announced its 11th annual teen conference.
To be held Tuesday, Nov. 27, from 8 to 1:30 p.m., the chamber plans to help 9th grade students “overcome obstacles to success and develop career paths; thus reducing the chance they will become a drop out statistic,” according to a chamber press release.
This year’s conference – as all the past conferences have – work toward mentoring and supporting teens and is in need of sponsors for the event.
It will be held at the Double Tree Hotel, 2800 Cabrillo Marina Way.
Organizations invited to join the conference include: San Pedro High School, Mary Star of the Sea High School, Port of Los Angeles High School, Rolling Hills Preparatory School, Harbor Occupational Center, Harbor Boys & Girls Clubs, LA Bridges (Toberman House Youth Program), San Pedro Youth Coalition, San Pedro & Peninsula YMCA and the YWCA of the Harbor Area.
Please call Sandy Bradley, the chamber’s chair of the Business-Education-Arts Committee at (310)- 940-9316 for further information.
Monday, November 12, 2007
HOW THE KIDS FEEL ABOUT LOSING LATERIAN – L.T. – the friend, brother, cousin they looked up too; And the words his Basketball Coach spoke at his Funeral; Please see earlier post about a public candlelight vigil being planned
Dear Readers: I’ve compiled some writings from students about their loss of Laterian Tasby, 17, a San Pedro High student who had given them hope about changing their own lives when he became a school leader and played football and basketball for the high school.
Students have said he influenced them with his friendliness and caring and provided them with a role-model – showing them anyone’s path can change if they want it too. He had moved here during his sophomore year to get away from the violence in his past neighborhoods and had changed his life before he was recently shot at a party the weekend before Halloween.
The students names have been changed for their own protection. Here is what they wrote:
--When I found out, I just died,” wrote Ron, a 13-year-old Dana Middle School student. “I asked what happened and when they told me he was shot I started to cry. I didn’t want to be the only one crying, so I held it in. I listened to everybody, like his girlfriend, his brother, and the kids that really loved him. It hurt me really badly; I wish I could have died with him. I will always remember him as the Empire State Building. …I thought he was strong as a boulder, but I guess I found out that he was not as strong as a boulder.
--“We have all suffered a great loss, so we have to be strong,” wrote Joe, a 15-year-old San Pedro High male student. “We cannot be weak. We cannot show our vulnerability. To all the people out there I know, I love you so much cuz’ you really don’t know when God will take you. Unfortunately, we lost one who is not a gang member!!! He was a young man trying to turn his life around. To everyone I say: “Please stop this violence.”
--“I miss L.T. because he was so funny. I can’t believe he is gone. He was a good friend and he will always live in our hearts. I really miss him because I used to talk to him about all my problems. L.T. I will miss you. Please look over our backs,” 14-year-old San Pedro High youth.
--Laterian Tasby was such a great guy,” wrote Candy, 14-year-old San Pedro High student. “We called him L.T., but I loved his name so I called him Laterian. He was such a good person and he always made me laugh. For the record, he was not a gang member. He used to be in trouble, but he changed his life around….He had dreams of going to USC….What happened to him was the worst thing ever. He didn’t deserve it at all. At the Boys and Girls Club, we are one big family. Now that Laterian is dead, its like our family members are dead.”
Dear Readers: I’ve compiled some writings from students about their loss of Laterian Tasby, 17, a San Pedro High student who had given them hope about changing their own lives when he became a school leader and played football and basketball for the high school.
Students have said he influenced them with his friendliness and caring and provided them with a role-model – showing them anyone’s path can change if they want it too. He had moved here during his sophomore year to get away from the violence in his past neighborhoods and had changed his life before he was recently shot at a party the weekend before Halloween.
The students names have been changed for their own protection. Here is what they wrote:
--When I found out, I just died,” wrote Ron, a 13-year-old Dana Middle School student. “I asked what happened and when they told me he was shot I started to cry. I didn’t want to be the only one crying, so I held it in. I listened to everybody, like his girlfriend, his brother, and the kids that really loved him. It hurt me really badly; I wish I could have died with him. I will always remember him as the Empire State Building. …I thought he was strong as a boulder, but I guess I found out that he was not as strong as a boulder.
--“We have all suffered a great loss, so we have to be strong,” wrote Joe, a 15-year-old San Pedro High male student. “We cannot be weak. We cannot show our vulnerability. To all the people out there I know, I love you so much cuz’ you really don’t know when God will take you. Unfortunately, we lost one who is not a gang member!!! He was a young man trying to turn his life around. To everyone I say: “Please stop this violence.”
--“I miss L.T. because he was so funny. I can’t believe he is gone. He was a good friend and he will always live in our hearts. I really miss him because I used to talk to him about all my problems. L.T. I will miss you. Please look over our backs,” 14-year-old San Pedro High youth.
--Laterian Tasby was such a great guy,” wrote Candy, 14-year-old San Pedro High student. “We called him L.T., but I loved his name so I called him Laterian. He was such a good person and he always made me laugh. For the record, he was not a gang member. He used to be in trouble, but he changed his life around….He had dreams of going to USC….What happened to him was the worst thing ever. He didn’t deserve it at all. At the Boys and Girls Club, we are one big family. Now that Laterian is dead, its like our family members are dead.”
READ AT HIS FUNERAL
By A High School Student:
L.T.
SATURDAY NIGHT TRAGEDY STRUCK
LOST ANOTHER SOLDIER TO GUN POWDER SHUCKS!
ANOTHER MOTHER LOSES HER BABY BOI
ANOTHER BROTHER LOSES HIS PRIDE AND JOY
A GROUP OF FRIENDS STANDING TOGETHER IN TEARS
AFRAID TO WALK THE STREETS OUR MINDS COVERED IN FEARS
WHO WILL BE NEXT WE ASK OURSELVES
WHEN WILL THEY LEARN TO PUT THE VIOLENCE BACK ON THE SHELVES
YET AGAIN WE PAY MONEY FOR A SWEATER WITH HIS FACE,
A LITTLE MESSAGE HIS BIRTHDATE AND 3 LETTERS TO TAKE HIM TO HIS FINAL RESTING PLACE
WE'LL NEVER BE ABLE TO LAUGH WITH HIM
OR DANCE WITH HIM
OR BE NEXT TO HIM
BUT PLEASE REMEMBER HE FOREVER REMAINS WITHIN
L.T. BABY BOI YOUR FOREVER MISSED
SHINE YOUR LIGHT UPON US WITH LAUGHTER AND BLISS
I ALWAYS SAID YOU WERE AS TALL AS HEAVEN AND NOW YOU PROVED IT, DON'T WORRIE ABOUT US TOGETHER WE'LL GET THRU IT
WE ALL NEED TO BE AS ONE AND HOLD EACHOTHER CLOSE
STAND IN UNITY AND PRAYER ITS SHOWS,
THAT WE ARE SOLDIERS NO MAN IS LEFT BEHIND
WHEN ONE OF US IS LOST WE HELP HIM TO FIND
THE LIGHT THE SILVER LINING THAT WAY HE GOES ON
IN OUR HEARTS AND MEMORIES SHINES BRIGHT LIKE THE SUN
IT'S NOT FAIR IT'S NOT RIGHT BUT IT HAS TO BE DONE
SOMETIMES WE CAN'T ALWAYS HAVE FUN
IT'S A MESSED UP SITUATION TO HAVE TO BURY A FRIEND
BUT NO MATTER HOW PAINFUL IT GETS HE'S FOREVER WITH US TILL THE END
FAREWELL TO LT
My name is John Bobich and I had the privilege to coach LT as he played basketball for San Pedro High School. My greatest memory of LT was when we were driving home from the Palm Springs basketball tournament this summer. We had a successful tournament. LT played well and I had the opportunity to drive LT back to town along with my wife and my 3 year old son. One would figure the conversation would revolve around LT and how well he did. But not LT. He sat in the back and the whole way home. LT constantly would crack jokes until he got a laugh from my son. He would then ask my son question after question until he got an answer. This went on over the course of the 2 and 1/2 hour trip. On that afternoon LT made a three year old the most important person on earth. And to me that's what made LT, LT. It was about others. In our conversations he was worried about pleasing his Mom, his Aunt, his Uncle and his brothers and sisters. To me this is what made LT so special.
Over the course of the past few days I find myself asking "Why?" Why does this young man lose his life after all the hard work he's done to turn his life around. I find myself angry. Here's a young man who was making a difference in so many ways. As a son, nephew, a friend, a student, and an athlete. Why does his life have to end so early? Well, last night I came to see LT at the viewing and I had received some answers. I witnessed so much love, support and compassion from many of you that sit here today. Love that we don't often see in this hectic world of ours. I also felt peace. And this is what LT stood for. He brought these great qualities in the people that he encountered.
If there was ever a conflict at school I could always go to LT and he would find a way to keep peace on our campus. He would step up and say, "Hey guys, just let it be. It's just not worth it." Today we mourn the passing of LT as his physical presence will no longer be with us. It hurts and for me it's really hard to accept. We look around town and see signs, pictures, and shirts that keep LT's spirt alive. One day there will be no shirts, no pictures, and no signs. But there will be many of the people in here keeping LT's spirt alive in the greatest way possible. Simply by doing the right thing. We will all have an opportunity. There will be situations that arise and we must remember LT and think. We will keep LT's spirit alive every time we step up and say, "Just let it be. It just not worth it." It could be with a friend, a foe or one day your spouse. We must learn to keep things in perspective. For you younger people who were so close to LT. I promise you years from now you will know LT made a difference in your life. Every time you make a friend or even a stranger feel better by stepping up and making a difference. If there 3 years old or 93. And you'll remember that's something LT taught me because that's what LT was about. Let's all make a promise to LT that we will make sure his death didn't go in vain. We will all make this world a better place by following LT's lead. God Bless you LT. I will never forget you.
PUBLIC CANDLELIGHT VIGIL BEING PLANNED TO HELP COMBAT SORROW OVER HUGE LOSS OF PIRATE FOOTBALL PLAYER – L.T. -- GUNNED DOWN AT PARTY WHILE TRYING TO PROTECT HIS FRIENDS: No. 85
By Diana L. Chapman
Over the past four months, two San Pedro High football players, one who just graduated and lived to tell his story, and another who was enjoying himself at “an athletes” party have been ruthlessly shot in our coastal town.
In the first incident, last August, an 18-year-old former Pirate survived a hail of bullets that ripped through his torso while sitting on porch with friends on a hot summer night. (That made about two lines in the press.)
The second incident, at a party the weekend before Halloween, had an even more tragic end. A SPHS football and basketball player, Laterian Tasby (L.T.), 17, died from a single shot to the chest after he “fought like a soldier” to protect his friends, a Boys and Girls Club staff official said.
The two events—both gang-related—have left me deflated. Neither boy belonged to a gang Both were respected athletes, fully immersed in the sports culture of their community.
A public candlelight vigil for Laterian is planned for the week of Nov. 12 (times and dates will be announced). Mona Sutton, co-owner of the Omelette and Waffle Shop, is organizing the event along with April Black, an official from Toberman. Los Angeles Habor Boys and Girls Club director, Mike Lansing, and Los Angeles Councilwoman Janice Hahn has agreed to speak.
It’s the first time I can remember a vigil in honor of a student killed like this in San Pedro. When Mona called me about it, I was thankful that at last someone was doing something to honor our young people—no matter what part of town they live in.
I consider Mona a “great equalizer,” a leader who has the ability to pull us together so we can grieve publicly over this tragic loss.
Others at the party, a mix of San Pedro High school and some college students, included another SPHS football player who was injured along with three other teenagers. All four have since recovered from bullet or stab wounds.
While I didn’t know Laterian well, I know probably half the kids who attended the party. Several are leaders at the Boys and Girls Club along with several other achieving San Pedro High students. Many of the teens spend much of their time in that family atmosphere at the club – striving to stay away from gangs and using the club as their safe haven. Most of them were on track for college, explained a staff member involved closely with the students, who asked not to be named.
Two of my friends children scrambled out of the house after Laterian was shot shortly before midnight. When I went to the Boys and Girls Club Wednesday afternoon for my weekly writer’s workshop, I watched young men and women stream back from Laterian’s funeral. Some were stoic, others were in tears, but it made me realize they were wondering about their own tomorrow, their own future. How could they not be? One of their closest friends, a popular leader, a peacekeeper at both the high school and club, was shot before their eyes.
About a year ago, two teenage friends – one black, the other Latino – were shot outside the Boys and Girls Club on Fifth Street. Why? The Latino boy had refused to join a gang and had befriended an African-American. Both were “taught a lesson” for hanging out together, club officials told me.
Laterian, who stood 6-foot-6, was called a “monster” by some because of his size. He tried to protect his friends from the alleged suspects who infiltrated the party apparently toting guns and knives.
The suspects allegedly made racial remarks and punched and stabbed one of the club members, which prompted the brawl.
“People are still trying to justify it as though Laterian was in a gang,” explained. a club official who said Laterian had moved in with his aunt and uncle for his sophomore year to escape from the violence where he grew up. “It was just supposed to be a small party for athletes. This should never have happened.”
Laterian was African-American, as is the teenager shot in August.
The popular football player had turned his life around and was making headway with his grades –achieving a C average so he could pursue college. College scouts were coming to see him play and his future looked bright and promising.
His horrific story came on the heels of the former Pirate player shot when he was hanging out with friends shortly before midnight Aug. 2 on the front porch of a house in the 900 block of Santa Cruz Street. I’m withholding his name at the request of police.
My friend’s son, now in college, had just left when four African-Americans pulled over and asked the former player for directions. Then they shook his hand, but one of the suspects held on tightly. A gun appeared, and the victim was shot multiple times in the torso, elbow and leg.
The suspects fled while his friends rushed him to the emergency room, where he miraculously survived.
When I bumped into him later at a going away party, I had no idea who he was. I just saw a cast on his arm and asked what happened. He told me he had been shot, but wasn’t sure why. He dismissed any racial overtones, although he was hanging out with Latino friends. He was dumbfounded he was alive.
So am I.
I never thought San Pedro would turn out this way with our kids dying in the streets. In the past, people I talked to dismissed these incidents because it wasn’t their kid. Their kid would never be caught in that situation. Now, I realize that if we believe this, we’re living in a dream world.
Police Commander Pat Gannon, a San Pedro native who is in charge of homicides and gang details in the LAPD’s southern region, said parents need to be more vigilant.
Parents must no longer allow their children to go to parties, no matter where they are. It takes only a couple of knuckleheads crashing a party to turn it into a dangerous event.
“There’s the way the world should be, and then there’s the way it is,” Pat told me. “Kids should be able to go to parties. It’s part of the fun. But today it’s a recipe for disaster. There are mean, nasty people out there, and unfortunately a couple of them ended up at that party and it became life-altering. It’s just tragic.”
Although he has no magic solution, he said parents should look for red flags such as a party “everyone is talking about” that could grow too large and unwieldy. Perhaps, parents need to organize parties in safe locations.
I was hit with the news of Laterian’s death just after returning from vacation. I felt like I’d been punched in the stomach, because I knew the emotional roller coaster the kids at the Boys and Girls Club would be on—having watch one of their own become such a success story gives them hope and makes them strive that much harder.
In an attempt to help them heal – whatever that can possibly mean – I asked them to write about L.T. There’s not much else I can do, except ask you to show you’re support. Attend the candlelight vigil.
It’s the only way as a community we can show we care for our kids – all of the kids in our community –and let gang members know we demand peace for our children.
Police are looking for help in both investigations. Call (310) 522-2021 if you have any information.
By Diana L. Chapman
Over the past four months, two San Pedro High football players, one who just graduated and lived to tell his story, and another who was enjoying himself at “an athletes” party have been ruthlessly shot in our coastal town.
In the first incident, last August, an 18-year-old former Pirate survived a hail of bullets that ripped through his torso while sitting on porch with friends on a hot summer night. (That made about two lines in the press.)
The second incident, at a party the weekend before Halloween, had an even more tragic end. A SPHS football and basketball player, Laterian Tasby (L.T.), 17, died from a single shot to the chest after he “fought like a soldier” to protect his friends, a Boys and Girls Club staff official said.
The two events—both gang-related—have left me deflated. Neither boy belonged to a gang Both were respected athletes, fully immersed in the sports culture of their community.
A public candlelight vigil for Laterian is planned for the week of Nov. 12 (times and dates will be announced). Mona Sutton, co-owner of the Omelette and Waffle Shop, is organizing the event along with April Black, an official from Toberman. Los Angeles Habor Boys and Girls Club director, Mike Lansing, and Los Angeles Councilwoman Janice Hahn has agreed to speak.
It’s the first time I can remember a vigil in honor of a student killed like this in San Pedro. When Mona called me about it, I was thankful that at last someone was doing something to honor our young people—no matter what part of town they live in.
I consider Mona a “great equalizer,” a leader who has the ability to pull us together so we can grieve publicly over this tragic loss.
Others at the party, a mix of San Pedro High school and some college students, included another SPHS football player who was injured along with three other teenagers. All four have since recovered from bullet or stab wounds.
While I didn’t know Laterian well, I know probably half the kids who attended the party. Several are leaders at the Boys and Girls Club along with several other achieving San Pedro High students. Many of the teens spend much of their time in that family atmosphere at the club – striving to stay away from gangs and using the club as their safe haven. Most of them were on track for college, explained a staff member involved closely with the students, who asked not to be named.
Two of my friends children scrambled out of the house after Laterian was shot shortly before midnight. When I went to the Boys and Girls Club Wednesday afternoon for my weekly writer’s workshop, I watched young men and women stream back from Laterian’s funeral. Some were stoic, others were in tears, but it made me realize they were wondering about their own tomorrow, their own future. How could they not be? One of their closest friends, a popular leader, a peacekeeper at both the high school and club, was shot before their eyes.
About a year ago, two teenage friends – one black, the other Latino – were shot outside the Boys and Girls Club on Fifth Street. Why? The Latino boy had refused to join a gang and had befriended an African-American. Both were “taught a lesson” for hanging out together, club officials told me.
Laterian, who stood 6-foot-6, was called a “monster” by some because of his size. He tried to protect his friends from the alleged suspects who infiltrated the party apparently toting guns and knives.
The suspects allegedly made racial remarks and punched and stabbed one of the club members, which prompted the brawl.
“People are still trying to justify it as though Laterian was in a gang,” explained. a club official who said Laterian had moved in with his aunt and uncle for his sophomore year to escape from the violence where he grew up. “It was just supposed to be a small party for athletes. This should never have happened.”
Laterian was African-American, as is the teenager shot in August.
The popular football player had turned his life around and was making headway with his grades –achieving a C average so he could pursue college. College scouts were coming to see him play and his future looked bright and promising.
His horrific story came on the heels of the former Pirate player shot when he was hanging out with friends shortly before midnight Aug. 2 on the front porch of a house in the 900 block of Santa Cruz Street. I’m withholding his name at the request of police.
My friend’s son, now in college, had just left when four African-Americans pulled over and asked the former player for directions. Then they shook his hand, but one of the suspects held on tightly. A gun appeared, and the victim was shot multiple times in the torso, elbow and leg.
The suspects fled while his friends rushed him to the emergency room, where he miraculously survived.
When I bumped into him later at a going away party, I had no idea who he was. I just saw a cast on his arm and asked what happened. He told me he had been shot, but wasn’t sure why. He dismissed any racial overtones, although he was hanging out with Latino friends. He was dumbfounded he was alive.
So am I.
I never thought San Pedro would turn out this way with our kids dying in the streets. In the past, people I talked to dismissed these incidents because it wasn’t their kid. Their kid would never be caught in that situation. Now, I realize that if we believe this, we’re living in a dream world.
Police Commander Pat Gannon, a San Pedro native who is in charge of homicides and gang details in the LAPD’s southern region, said parents need to be more vigilant.
Parents must no longer allow their children to go to parties, no matter where they are. It takes only a couple of knuckleheads crashing a party to turn it into a dangerous event.
“There’s the way the world should be, and then there’s the way it is,” Pat told me. “Kids should be able to go to parties. It’s part of the fun. But today it’s a recipe for disaster. There are mean, nasty people out there, and unfortunately a couple of them ended up at that party and it became life-altering. It’s just tragic.”
Although he has no magic solution, he said parents should look for red flags such as a party “everyone is talking about” that could grow too large and unwieldy. Perhaps, parents need to organize parties in safe locations.
I was hit with the news of Laterian’s death just after returning from vacation. I felt like I’d been punched in the stomach, because I knew the emotional roller coaster the kids at the Boys and Girls Club would be on—having watch one of their own become such a success story gives them hope and makes them strive that much harder.
In an attempt to help them heal – whatever that can possibly mean – I asked them to write about L.T. There’s not much else I can do, except ask you to show you’re support. Attend the candlelight vigil.
It’s the only way as a community we can show we care for our kids – all of the kids in our community –and let gang members know we demand peace for our children.
Police are looking for help in both investigations. Call (310) 522-2021 if you have any information.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Dana Middle School Receives State-of-the-Art Fitness Center Along With Three Other Middle Schools; Former Los Angeles School Board Member Mike Lansing (above) watches teachers train for future lessons to Dana Students (See full story below)
Saralyn Hannon, head of Dana Middle School physical education department wearing yellow, trains other teachers using the gift from former School Board Member Mike Lansing before he departed after serving eight years. Saying she was "floored" by the gift, the instructor plans to open its doors to students by the end of October.
DANA MIDDLE SCHOOL GETS ONE GIANT TREAT TO HELP CURB OBESITY AND GIVE STUDENTS ANOTHER SHOT AT EXERCISE BESIDES RUNNING -- A BRAND NEW FITNESS CENTER
Mike Lansing's gift left four middle schools with a trainer for teachers and $50,000 plus in physical training equipment found usually in private gyms; Some students have never seen this equipment before
Diana L. Chapman
Instead of leaving behind a swath of candy for Halloween, a former Los Angeles Unified School Board Member left an enormous treat for San Pedro middle school students – an intense “Disneyland” style fitness center which will open its doors in late October.
Dana Middle School’s new fitness center allows students to challenge their own skills with built-in monitoring devices on the newest training equipment and opens around Halloween, said Saralyn Hannon, head of physical education department.
Mike Lansing's gift left four middle schools with a trainer for teachers and $50,000 plus in physical training equipment found usually in private gyms; Some students have never seen this equipment before
Diana L. Chapman
Instead of leaving behind a swath of candy for Halloween, a former Los Angeles Unified School Board Member left an enormous treat for San Pedro middle school students – an intense “Disneyland” style fitness center which will open its doors in late October.
Dana Middle School’s new fitness center allows students to challenge their own skills with built-in monitoring devices on the newest training equipment and opens around Halloween, said Saralyn Hannon, head of physical education department.
The center’s pieces include 15 state-of- the-art spin bikes, three giant elypticals (like a giant looking trike that has pedals for leg thrusts and push poles for arms,) more than 20 stability balls, dozens of three to ten pound weights, scores of medicine balls, floor mats and hordes of resistance bands.
That doesn’t include the 20 bosus pieces, which are used like stepping stools, but are rounded to help promote balance.
Using a spin bike, physical education instructor Jose Morales, jumped off after ten minutes and said happily “what an awesome workout. My legs are wobbling.
“When the kids enter in here, it’s going to be like Disneyland.”
As former school board member Mike Lansing toured the facility recently and said he decided to use his remaining funds as a board member to ensure that middle school children would learn a variety of ways to exercise and open their minds to all sorts of athletics – besides running and team sports.
Funds for similar facilities were also given to Wilmington, Gompers and Markham, both in South Los Angeles. Each school received $50,000 a piece.
“Everything was being done for the high schools and the elementary schools and health is such an issue,” Mike explained. “It just made sense to invest in this. Health and academics are definitely related. If you have an overweight child or an asthmatic child or both, we are getting a twofer here to help them improve their health.”
Physical trainer Eden Paul was hired to purchase the equipment and aide the physical education teachers at all four schools to set it up. In addition, she will train the teachers in equipment usage before they start.
At Dana, it took several months to just set up the room and remove former equipment, the head of the P.E. department said. The amount of time it took to plan out the room has prevented the teachers from opening up the doors yet to students.
Once the teachers are trained and have figured out the best way to have some 60 plus students use the facility, with one teacher on hand, the students will be released to get their own workouts.
Currently, the facility has been opened up after school for teachers and staff to use, Saralyn explained.
“I am just so grateful,” the P.E. instructor revealed. “We can just do so much. It’s really different for the kids. We got the best equipment and the most for our money. I’m just so floored.”
In the past, she related that physical education was typically bypassed financially for academics and that the school is still trying to install a rock wall that it has money set aside for. Under school district policy, the installation has become so difficult with the that the campus still has yet to receive it.
With this packet, there was little concern about installation. It was more about finding the proper room and training the physical education teachers on the new-state-of the-art-equipment.
For Mike, the key for him will be coming back to see the doors unlocked for the students he left this gigantic treat for at all four of the schools.
That doesn’t include the 20 bosus pieces, which are used like stepping stools, but are rounded to help promote balance.
Using a spin bike, physical education instructor Jose Morales, jumped off after ten minutes and said happily “what an awesome workout. My legs are wobbling.
“When the kids enter in here, it’s going to be like Disneyland.”
As former school board member Mike Lansing toured the facility recently and said he decided to use his remaining funds as a board member to ensure that middle school children would learn a variety of ways to exercise and open their minds to all sorts of athletics – besides running and team sports.
Funds for similar facilities were also given to Wilmington, Gompers and Markham, both in South Los Angeles. Each school received $50,000 a piece.
“Everything was being done for the high schools and the elementary schools and health is such an issue,” Mike explained. “It just made sense to invest in this. Health and academics are definitely related. If you have an overweight child or an asthmatic child or both, we are getting a twofer here to help them improve their health.”
Physical trainer Eden Paul was hired to purchase the equipment and aide the physical education teachers at all four schools to set it up. In addition, she will train the teachers in equipment usage before they start.
At Dana, it took several months to just set up the room and remove former equipment, the head of the P.E. department said. The amount of time it took to plan out the room has prevented the teachers from opening up the doors yet to students.
Once the teachers are trained and have figured out the best way to have some 60 plus students use the facility, with one teacher on hand, the students will be released to get their own workouts.
Currently, the facility has been opened up after school for teachers and staff to use, Saralyn explained.
“I am just so grateful,” the P.E. instructor revealed. “We can just do so much. It’s really different for the kids. We got the best equipment and the most for our money. I’m just so floored.”
In the past, she related that physical education was typically bypassed financially for academics and that the school is still trying to install a rock wall that it has money set aside for. Under school district policy, the installation has become so difficult with the that the campus still has yet to receive it.
With this packet, there was little concern about installation. It was more about finding the proper room and training the physical education teachers on the new-state-of the-art-equipment.
For Mike, the key for him will be coming back to see the doors unlocked for the students he left this gigantic treat for at all four of the schools.
Monday, October 01, 2007
Flash, who lived at Fort McArthur, in the years of the Cold War finally will get his gravesite restored. Museuem Curator Steven Nelson holding Flash's photo alongside museum staff, Francisco "Cisco" Lacy and Nikola Pilato.An Honor for Those Big Hounds in the Sky
By Diana L. Chapman
After living in San Pedro for some twenty years now and having a great understanding of the snail pace of Los Angeles, it was a great pleasure for me to walk around the three foot tall, Palos Verdes stone fence that now squares off a military cemetery for dogs.
It might seem a small endeavor, but as it flourishes, it will show how one determined resident, one determined museum director and the residents of this town can paw their way to the top much quicker if they embark on projects on their own rather than depend on the city.
By the end of January, our community should see the complete $28,000 plus refurbishment of the Fort MacArthur sentry cemetery – a graveyard that honored the animals, mostly guard dogs that served us during the Cold War. Most were put down as they were unable to return to the regular post of being a pet after being dutiful and dangerous guard dogs, canines such as Jack, Cheetah and Pancho.
The cemetery refurbishment is a small, but symbolic step toward cleaning up our problematic troubles with Los Angeles ailing parks, which, pointedly might need more help from the community than it ever has.
Mostly, we should just commend the idea of taking on projects locally so we can beautify our town as a whole – and I believe the cemetery for our military animal vets is a great case in point. Yes, we should honor a dog, such as Flash, a German Shepherd, who acted as a sentry for us for years and had to give up his life, because he was no longer needed.
When resident Dorothy Matich decided to take on an endeavor, she showed how one driven person with a purpose can really change the blemishes and scars in this town.
The Fort McArthur cemetery, in fact, had become just that – a giant embarrassment. Visitors were trashing the site with leftover garbage. Vandals stole more than half of the plaques there to honor the animals. Dog walkers allowed their dogs to dismiss their extras on the graves. And it didn’t seem to matter to anyone that this was one of the first such graveyards in U.S. military history, explained Steve Nelson, the museum curator. The fort, which served as a military site from 1914 to 1982, became a historic museum in 1986.
In an effort to preserve what was left of the cemetery, Steve removed the remaining plaques to and was absolutely delighted when Dorothy came along with the suggestion to do fundraisers to beautify the diminished glory of our hounds (and a few cats) that protected us.
“What an accomplishment,” Steve told me as he chortled over the effort carrying a photo of Flash and watching museum staff clean up extra rocks from the site. “This is a real achievement and it’s because of Dorothy and Flo. It’s just been quite a blessing to have someone adopt the project.”
Amen.
I must say we need more Dorothy and Flos around. Dorothy received much help from friend, Florence Kleinjan, in raising $22,000 and working toward more. The newly refurbished graveyard will include a wrought-iron fence to protect it from further vandals, pathways of composite granite and a lush, natural landscape of California buckwheat and red flowering currants. If all goes well, the curator said, a bronze statue of a dog – probably one like Flash, a German Shepherd, will be a central focus of the site which will honor some 34 animals. A similar statue was believed to exist at the site, before it too was absconded.
On Nov. 11 – Veterans Day -- Flo and Dorothy plan to put small American flags on the graves that have so long been forgotten.
By then, the museum hopes to have stolen plaques replaced, but most of the work will not be completed until January.
After hosting tickets to teas and plays, Dorothy seemed to breath a sigh of relief to see the beginnings of her efforts come to life.
“I am just elated,” she said. “I really am. I am just really grateful to everyone who helped.”
So am I. So will the community when they see the new gift we’ve all received due to these efforts. And hopefully, so will, the dogs in the big sky who did so much as mans best friend and deserve this much belated honor.
By Diana L. Chapman
After living in San Pedro for some twenty years now and having a great understanding of the snail pace of Los Angeles, it was a great pleasure for me to walk around the three foot tall, Palos Verdes stone fence that now squares off a military cemetery for dogs.
It might seem a small endeavor, but as it flourishes, it will show how one determined resident, one determined museum director and the residents of this town can paw their way to the top much quicker if they embark on projects on their own rather than depend on the city.
By the end of January, our community should see the complete $28,000 plus refurbishment of the Fort MacArthur sentry cemetery – a graveyard that honored the animals, mostly guard dogs that served us during the Cold War. Most were put down as they were unable to return to the regular post of being a pet after being dutiful and dangerous guard dogs, canines such as Jack, Cheetah and Pancho.
The cemetery refurbishment is a small, but symbolic step toward cleaning up our problematic troubles with Los Angeles ailing parks, which, pointedly might need more help from the community than it ever has.
Mostly, we should just commend the idea of taking on projects locally so we can beautify our town as a whole – and I believe the cemetery for our military animal vets is a great case in point. Yes, we should honor a dog, such as Flash, a German Shepherd, who acted as a sentry for us for years and had to give up his life, because he was no longer needed.
When resident Dorothy Matich decided to take on an endeavor, she showed how one driven person with a purpose can really change the blemishes and scars in this town.
The Fort McArthur cemetery, in fact, had become just that – a giant embarrassment. Visitors were trashing the site with leftover garbage. Vandals stole more than half of the plaques there to honor the animals. Dog walkers allowed their dogs to dismiss their extras on the graves. And it didn’t seem to matter to anyone that this was one of the first such graveyards in U.S. military history, explained Steve Nelson, the museum curator. The fort, which served as a military site from 1914 to 1982, became a historic museum in 1986.
In an effort to preserve what was left of the cemetery, Steve removed the remaining plaques to and was absolutely delighted when Dorothy came along with the suggestion to do fundraisers to beautify the diminished glory of our hounds (and a few cats) that protected us.
“What an accomplishment,” Steve told me as he chortled over the effort carrying a photo of Flash and watching museum staff clean up extra rocks from the site. “This is a real achievement and it’s because of Dorothy and Flo. It’s just been quite a blessing to have someone adopt the project.”
Amen.
I must say we need more Dorothy and Flos around. Dorothy received much help from friend, Florence Kleinjan, in raising $22,000 and working toward more. The newly refurbished graveyard will include a wrought-iron fence to protect it from further vandals, pathways of composite granite and a lush, natural landscape of California buckwheat and red flowering currants. If all goes well, the curator said, a bronze statue of a dog – probably one like Flash, a German Shepherd, will be a central focus of the site which will honor some 34 animals. A similar statue was believed to exist at the site, before it too was absconded.
On Nov. 11 – Veterans Day -- Flo and Dorothy plan to put small American flags on the graves that have so long been forgotten.
By then, the museum hopes to have stolen plaques replaced, but most of the work will not be completed until January.
After hosting tickets to teas and plays, Dorothy seemed to breath a sigh of relief to see the beginnings of her efforts come to life.
“I am just elated,” she said. “I really am. I am just really grateful to everyone who helped.”
So am I. So will the community when they see the new gift we’ve all received due to these efforts. And hopefully, so will, the dogs in the big sky who did so much as mans best friend and deserve this much belated honor.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Elementary Teachers: Take this Ship
A Raffle Just Might Get Free Bus Travel for Students to the Maritime Museum; Parents Tell Your Teachers!
Maritime Museum Director Marifrances Trivelli bemoaned the fact with a friend recently that not as many teachers were bringing their students in for business – a sore disappointment when the museum has so much to offer.
Her friend, a retired teacher, easily hit the sail on the head.
They don’t come, the teacher explained, because buses are so costly – and so hard to get – that they’ll tend to use them for major field trips – meaning those not so nearby.
That’s how the museum in part launched it’s “teacher outreach,” program. An open house will be held for educators from 1st to fifth grades from 3 to 4:30 p.m., Monday Oct. 15, to explain all the school tours the museum offers – but even better: a raffle that will include a oceanic-sized prize.
Three teachers will each receive a bus ride for their students to the museum and back – quite an enticement for teachers always eager for transportation to take their students on field trips.
They don’t come, the teacher explained, because buses are so costly – and so hard to get – that they’ll tend to use them for major field trips – meaning those not so nearby.
That’s how the museum in part launched it’s “teacher outreach,” program. An open house will be held for educators from 1st to fifth grades from 3 to 4:30 p.m., Monday Oct. 15, to explain all the school tours the museum offers – but even better: a raffle that will include a oceanic-sized prize.
Three teachers will each receive a bus ride for their students to the museum and back – quite an enticement for teachers always eager for transportation to take their students on field trips.
Each educator attending will receive a packet all about the museum and the tours that are offered. Light refreshments will be served. Museum staff will explain how the maritime museum – a wealth of information when it comes to maritime history locally and throughout the state – meets the state’s education standards, the director said.
For more information, contact Amy Harroff, the museum’s educator, at (310) 548-7618 (ext. 202).
Monday, September 24, 2007
WHEN YOU EMBARK ON A HUGE COURSE IN YOUR LIFE – DON’T FORGET YOUR KIDS
By Diana L. Chapman
The teacher at Dana Middle School approached me in the hallway and pulled me quietly aside. He needed to talk to me about Ryan. He indicated it was extremely important – and whenever a teacher wants to talk to me about my son, I drop everything.
His 6th grade algebra teacher, Sal DiConstanzo, explained that Ryan had not been acting himself the past two weeks. He was snippy, not paying attention, basically languishing in his class – and not caring what happened. He wasn’t even doing his homework or participating! These thoughts immediately shot into my brain; It had to be a bully or a girlfriend who dumped him at school.
I asked Ryan what was going on and he said: “Mom. Look. I don’t want to talk about it. It’s not life-threatening or anything.”
Failing to coax anything him out of him, I dropped the conversation.
But thank God for the warning. A few days later, during parent conferences, two teachers practically leaped out of their chairs and begged me to tell them what was going on with Ryan. It was the same story the math teacher had revealed.
This time, I told Ryan: “You have to tell me, your dad or what’s going on,” because by now, I’m just sure we’ll be marching onto the school grounds asking the school to solve the problem.
Ryan finally spit it out -- and I got quite the education.
“I’m scared,” he explained. “I’m scared about our remodel. I don’t know where we are going to live. I don’t know where our animals are going. I don’t know what’s going to happen to me.”
Wham! What a wake-up call for us as parents. We’d been sitting around discussing incessantly about our remodel woes – and we hadn’t even started yet – and yes, we didn’t know where we were going to live, and no, we didn’t have any idea what we were going to do with our animals. And it spelled out the one certain thing: We have to remember our kids listen and they listen intently. Whenever we feel uncomfortable, they feel uncomfortable. When we are afraid, they are afraid. Ryan basically was a carbon-copy of our own feelings – and he most certainly didn’t know where he fit in the maelstrom of plans with architects, engineers and a whirlwind of bodies coming in-and-out of our doors.
And I have to remind you – that was before we even really started. We had unknowingly transferred all our troubles to our son, and worse – it was his teachers who had to tell us so. But perhaps that was better, because it was then I realized what a life line our teachers can be to our kids – if – and only if – we listen and become involved in their education -- however, that may be from writing teachers notes to helping on field trips.
By Diana L. Chapman
The teacher at Dana Middle School approached me in the hallway and pulled me quietly aside. He needed to talk to me about Ryan. He indicated it was extremely important – and whenever a teacher wants to talk to me about my son, I drop everything.
His 6th grade algebra teacher, Sal DiConstanzo, explained that Ryan had not been acting himself the past two weeks. He was snippy, not paying attention, basically languishing in his class – and not caring what happened. He wasn’t even doing his homework or participating! These thoughts immediately shot into my brain; It had to be a bully or a girlfriend who dumped him at school.
I asked Ryan what was going on and he said: “Mom. Look. I don’t want to talk about it. It’s not life-threatening or anything.”
Failing to coax anything him out of him, I dropped the conversation.
But thank God for the warning. A few days later, during parent conferences, two teachers practically leaped out of their chairs and begged me to tell them what was going on with Ryan. It was the same story the math teacher had revealed.
This time, I told Ryan: “You have to tell me, your dad or what’s going on,” because by now, I’m just sure we’ll be marching onto the school grounds asking the school to solve the problem.
Ryan finally spit it out -- and I got quite the education.
“I’m scared,” he explained. “I’m scared about our remodel. I don’t know where we are going to live. I don’t know where our animals are going. I don’t know what’s going to happen to me.”
Wham! What a wake-up call for us as parents. We’d been sitting around discussing incessantly about our remodel woes – and we hadn’t even started yet – and yes, we didn’t know where we were going to live, and no, we didn’t have any idea what we were going to do with our animals. And it spelled out the one certain thing: We have to remember our kids listen and they listen intently. Whenever we feel uncomfortable, they feel uncomfortable. When we are afraid, they are afraid. Ryan basically was a carbon-copy of our own feelings – and he most certainly didn’t know where he fit in the maelstrom of plans with architects, engineers and a whirlwind of bodies coming in-and-out of our doors.
And I have to remind you – that was before we even really started. We had unknowingly transferred all our troubles to our son, and worse – it was his teachers who had to tell us so. But perhaps that was better, because it was then I realized what a life line our teachers can be to our kids – if – and only if – we listen and become involved in their education -- however, that may be from writing teachers notes to helping on field trips.
Because of these teachers, we were able to avoid a catastrophe as Ryan’s grades were spiraling down and his attitude had become horrifically scary – and hah, I was just sure it was the fault of the school! And believe me, we had absolutely no idea. We were blindsided and surprised by our own inability during that time to connect with our own child.
Afterward, I discussed the situation with those in the business. When I told one architect the story, he said he was taken aback and would now include children in the planning stages of home design.
Another general contractor in town, Tommy Reavey, president of Thomas Towne Reavy Inc., said he learned quickly to include children the hard way. It happened after he was redesigning a house and had demolished all but two rooms.
Another general contractor in town, Tommy Reavey, president of Thomas Towne Reavy Inc., said he learned quickly to include children the hard way. It happened after he was redesigning a house and had demolished all but two rooms.
When the family came to visit their home, the little girl in the family, about 5-to-7 years old, vanished. The girl's disappearance launched a search and when they finally found her she was -- in “her old bedroom in her old bed in a quasi fetal position,” he wrote me via email. She was sucking on her thumb, a habit she hadn’t done in years, and it shocked everyone.
That’s when he learned that while adults could peer into the future and see a final outcome, obviously children could not.
“It was alarming to all of us and left a lasting impression on me,” Tommy wrote. “Now I warn parents that it can be very disruptive and disturbing to a child to have their home torn a sunder. This can be shocking to adults too, but children can't envision the end result and have no knowledge of how a house is built and remodeled in the first place.
"For them it could be like Katrina was to the people of New Orleans. The child for good reasons will associate the stability of the home with the stability of the family, which is pretty much their whole world at this time in their lives.”
Parents using Tommy’s design team are now coached to prepare their children and to look for any signs they might be disturbed by the events circling around them. “We are there for them and want them to feel safe,” Tommy explained.
For children, our world is their world. How we feel, think and believe will be stamped on them and impact their every day lives.
I love the concept of including children in the "thought process" of designing a home.
Parents using Tommy’s design team are now coached to prepare their children and to look for any signs they might be disturbed by the events circling around them. “We are there for them and want them to feel safe,” Tommy explained.
For children, our world is their world. How we feel, think and believe will be stamped on them and impact their every day lives.
I love the concept of including children in the "thought process" of designing a home.
From all of this, my husband I learned that life lessons are never over -- and that even though we graduated -- it will sometimes be teachers who are still teaching us.
Monday, September 17, 2007
What Adults Want from Kids & A Series of GREAT Happenings in Town; A Spiritual Festival, An Amazing Teacher’s Retirement and Don’t Forget Bark & Boo
What Adults Want From Kids
For about eight years now, I’ve worked closely with students of all ages. Elementary, junior high and high school. Adults tell me constantly what they need and want from kids.
The list goes something like this:
- Kids should give adults respect.
- Kids should be polite and cordial.
- Kids should listen.
What Kids Want From Adults:
- Adults should give kids respect.
- Adults should be polite and cordial.
- Adults should listen.
- A Tearful Goodbye to a Longtime Educator Who Helped Hundreds of Students Stretching Across the Generations; She Celebrates her Retirement Friday at Bandini Elementary School
A goodbye celebration for Jackie Terry – a longtime educator who led an endless array of tiny tots in education and marched them off on a sound path to kindergarten – will be hosted at Bandini Elementary School Friday.
Hundreds of children grew through Jackie’s doors where she taught them both academics and social skills while preparing them to sit down in kindergarten classes and learn how to learn in a federally funded program, which included parenting classes.
She decided to retire at the end of the last school year -- but not in time for employess there to celebrate her years of dedication..
Jackie's known for teaching two generations of families for more than three decades, coming from a wide section of the Harbor Area. Parents and students alike honor her to this day for what she did for children.
Her retirement celebration will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday (Sept. 21) in Bandini’s Cafeteria. Meals will cost $8 per person and will include three tacos, rice, beans, chips and a drink. Please RSVP to Gabriel or Julie Martinez at Bandini elementary school (310) 832-4593.
As my son was one of the lucky kids to go through Jackie’s program, I’ll be there – and I hope I will see you there too! Bring your kids. – Diana Chapman
Don’t Forget the Light at the Lighthouse Music Festival: A Christian Festival For Families – and Kids -- and Anyone Who Wants to Join
By Christine Fisch
This Saturday, September 22nd will be one day your kids will be unable to say, "”I'm bored . There's nothing for us to do.”"
With the efforts of about fifteen local churches, business owners, volunteers and Councilwoman Janice Hahn, Point Fermin Park will host the third annual Light at the Lighthouse Music Festival. There will literally be entertainment and activities planned for not only adult , but for children at every age level.
Music is the main focus of the festival which takes place from10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is provided on three separate stages. The main stage being the park's band shell hosts well-polished worship (rock) bands from local churches, four nationally known Christian rock groups and the coveted Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Choir.
We will also be treated to The Cambodian Children's Choir, a group of orphans on an international tour. The second stage is dedicated to the youth in the park.
Christian music comes in more forms than you can imagine, most of which you can witness at the second stage. There's rock, rap, punk, gospel and combinations of all of the above. It's a high energy situation which can likely end in a mosh pit configuration (albeit a very well mannered mosh pit.) With names like Church of Rock, Civilian Noise and Munk Funk you can imagine what kind of positive energy these kids are emitting. It is really incredible to watch these pre-teens and teens as they groove to so many different music genres and display a genuine enjoyment and respect for each other.
The third stage located in the "kids area" is directed towards young children and families. There will be acts by children's choirs and dance groups, puppet shows and even a mime team. In the kids area you will also find a jumper, face painting, crafts, story time, temporary tattoos and games.
Booths and vendors will include food, crafts and jewelry for sell. Churches and many not-for profit agencies will be there with information on their organization and to answer any questions you may have.
The event is free.
It's a day for all of San Pedro families to hang out at one the most beautiful locations in San Pedro while listening to some top-notch musical performances, and perhaps for once avoid the comment "there's nothing for us to do." For more information on the event visit http://www.lightatthelighthouse.org/
BOO & BARK AT White Point Nature Preserve; Let’s Have a Haunting Celebration and BARK Along With the Dogs
Get out those skeleton pens. Bring out your pumpkin calendars! And start marking the date to celebrate at the Bark & Boo Halloween Party at White Point Nature Preserve.
The party will be held Sunday, Oct.28 from 2 to 5 p.m. and will include such scary screeches as a costume parade, kids’ crafts , game booths and a Halloween raffle. Best of all, there will be prizes for those dogs dressed as the funniest, scariest and “the best look alike” spooky costumes. Entry per dog is $10 . All dogs must be on a leash and judging will begin at 3 p.m.
Look for more information about this on the blog. Hosted by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, call for more information at (310) 541-7613 or visit www.pvplc.org.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
See the Stanley Cup at Discovery Science Center Thursday
The world’s most famous sports trophy, the Stanley Cup, will be at Taco Bell Discovery Science Center on Thursday, Sept. 13, from 3 to 5 p.m.
For the price of admission, children and families can take a photo with the Stanley Cup, currently held by the 2007 National Hockey League Champions the Anaheim Ducks.
The special, two-hour event kicks off a partnership between the Science Center and the Anaheim Ducks, which will bring “super-sized” field trips and hockey-themed exhibits to the Southern California. For more information, visit the Science Center’s Web site: http://www.discoverycube.org/
Chill Facts on hockey and the Stanley Cup:
The standard puck weighs between 5 ½ and 6 ounces. Pucks are frozen before a game to make them bounce resistant.
The Stanley Cup is 110 years old, weighs 35 pounds and is just less than three feet tall.
The Anaheim Ducks are the first California team to win the Stanley Cup!
The world’s most famous sports trophy, the Stanley Cup, will be at Taco Bell Discovery Science Center on Thursday, Sept. 13, from 3 to 5 p.m.
For the price of admission, children and families can take a photo with the Stanley Cup, currently held by the 2007 National Hockey League Champions the Anaheim Ducks.
The special, two-hour event kicks off a partnership between the Science Center and the Anaheim Ducks, which will bring “super-sized” field trips and hockey-themed exhibits to the Southern California. For more information, visit the Science Center’s Web site: http://www.discoverycube.org/
Chill Facts on hockey and the Stanley Cup:
The standard puck weighs between 5 ½ and 6 ounces. Pucks are frozen before a game to make them bounce resistant.
The Stanley Cup is 110 years old, weighs 35 pounds and is just less than three feet tall.
The Anaheim Ducks are the first California team to win the Stanley Cup!
Saturday, September 08, 2007
The Colors of a Rainbow, a Few Ants, a Little Kid and a Blue Stone Necklace Curves into One Big Wave of a Family Surfing Tale
One Little Book, One Wave at a Time
“Surf big. Dream big. – Jimmy Daos
By Diana L. Chapman
He wrote it on newspapers. He jotted down ideas on napkins in local diners. He spewed his story out on bits of scrap paper. He wrote it despite he had struggled to learn to read and write. He wrote it despite his wife’s diagnosis with multiple sclerosis. He wrote it despite his limited writing skills.
He wrote it because he always remembered one thing his third grade teacher would say – there’s not one student, she reminded him that could tell a tale like Jimmy. Of all her students, she said, he was the biggest, baddest kahuna of a “storyteller” -- meaning he was the best!
By the time James Daos, 38, was finished, he had a manuscript as thick as a Bible, several children’s stories – and a parade of ants that surf through his stories, each named after family members. With his children’s book, “Ants on the Rainbow…You’ll Never Know,” published and doing many Hang 5s in the sales world, James plans to soon launch his next book lining up an agreement with 260 Ralph’s stores to carry his first and second book. So far, he’s sold 3,000 books to date within the year of publishing; more of his books will be sold Sunday at the Filipino Festival at Point Fermin Park and by early October or November, he hopes to have his second book launched as he dares to ride the publishing curl.
His books can be purchased for $14.99 at his website: www.antsontherainbow.com. This Saturday, James will be book signing at Karen Carpenter Center in Long Beach from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. and then in Ventura Sunday Sept. 16 at the Aloha Festival from 10 to 5 p.m. For further information on his book signings which will include one at Borders in RollingHills Estates this month and another in October at Williams Book Store in SanPedro, visit his website.
Currently a manager at Ralph’s Market in Redondo Beach, the San Pedro resident- surfer of Filipino descent, told his four children hundreds and hundreds of stories over the years before they fell asleep. He has three step children, Amoreena, 27, Dom, 26, Mark, 23, and his two daughters, Brooke, 15 and Hannah, 14. Since he decided to publish –he’s been overwhelmed with the scores of calls he’s received from book stores all over wanting him to do book signings – and he was invited to the UCLA Festival of Books.
But none of this – not any of it – would have happened had it not been for his daughter, Hannah, his family, his friends and the overwhelming support he received from customers who came to know him when he was a manager at Hugh’s Market on the Palos Verdes Peninsula – and later in Redondo Beach.
So many folks, he explained, wanted him to do the book that they supported the financial endeavor, sometimes with money and sometimes by just offering him a great network -such as connecting him with the artist, Lonni, who did the book’s illustration. Friends were so adamant that he do the book that they even helped him find printing and publishing companies to assist. To fund the book, he did he did car washes, worked extra hours and was shocked when he received offers of financial help from close friends and family.
As I am one who can never resist a success story and believe that's exactly where James is headed – I asked him how all the help he received from friends “such as the master net worker” who believed so much in his book that she gave him money to publish it—several tears rolled down his face.
“How does it make me feel? I feel overwhelmed,” he said, who explained that he didn’t learn until he reached his 30s that he had ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) which likely contributed to his learning disabilities. “I feel so happy that I can (finally) share my gift of creativity and imagination with the world. I feel elated. I am just so grateful for my friends and family everyday and I thank God for them helping me got so far.”
It’s as though his true life tale holds three stories. As a father who took on three step children who he loves as his own when he married, he said, it was his kids who inspired him -- in particular his youngest, Hannah, who surfs along with her older sister, Brooke. Many of his stories sprung from his kid's adventures.
Ants came about with several events that happened with Hannah -- such as when she found a drab gray rock on the beach when she was six and asked her Dad to make it into a necklace and the second when she began singing a little ditty: “Ants on the Rainbow…You’ll Never Know.”
All his kids begged him for nighttime stories and he’d say: “What do you want tonight: a scary story, a Bible story, an animal story?”
“I can tell a story about anything and I’ll use what’s around me to become my characters,” he explained while we were dining at the Omelette & Waffle Shop. “I can tell you a story about these things right now,” he said grabbing a bottle of steak sauce – Mr. King A-1 – the creamer – the Cream Queen – a glass of water – Wally the Water – and whatever else comes to mind. And then he’ll create a story.
That’s what happened when Hannah saw her grandmother sweeping swells of ants off her porch after an afternoon rain. As she swept, a rainbow filled the sky and the ants looked as though they were “on the rainbow,” which got Hannah to start singing “ants of a rainbow.” Her dad asked what it meant. “You’ll never know,” Hannah sang. For rest of the day, she charged around singing “ants on a rainbow…you’ll never know,” which inspired his first book.
Then came the day he took his kids to the beach (they all have nicknames like DC for Double Curl) which is what he named many of the primary surfing ants in his book after –- family members.
Hannah was also responsible for the magical blue stone necklace – which started out as a gray rock she discovered on the beach at Royal Palms. She asked her Dad to turn it into a necklace. He when he was drilling the stone, it broke. Hannah started crying. James promised to fix it, painted it blue, redid the hole and told her it had special powers to fight evil. (In the book, evil comes in the form of Smasher – a killer who leads the nasty Fire Ants.)
Finally, Hannah begged him – and so did his older kids – to tell the Ants on the Rainbow story. He mixed a pot of ingredients together in the mix – the ants, the blue stone and his kids. When he finished the story, his wife raced in the room. “”Write that down,’’” she reveled.
That’s when the entire family agreed to commit writing and publishing the book, which while he’s hopeful to make money, has paid him back in ways he could never have imagined. He recalled one day at book signing, a literary professor who was about 60, came up and criticized his book, dressing it up and down – and telling the author how he could have done it better.
Just then, a little girl about six stepped to his table and yelped: “Mr. Daos, Mr. Daos. I love your book. I love the Ants on the Rainbow!”
James turned to the professor and said: “I didn’t write this book for you. I wrote it for her and kids like her.”
But the best gift he ever received was from a little girl, about 8, who raced up confidently to the author’s table, told him she loved his books about ants and then announced: “You know I’m very special. Do you know why?” Jimmy looked at her and asked: “How so?”
“Because I have M.S.,” she revealed and Jimmy could feel the bites of tears in the back of his eyes. Her Dad, who looked gruff, wore a bandanna and was covered in tattoos, stood behind his little girl and when his daughter moved away he turned to Jimmy and said with tears in his eyes: “It’s not about making money. It’s about what you’ve done for my daughter. She loves your book. I’ll tell you now; you have already done your job on Earth.”
Proceeds of Jame’s book will go to the MS Society.
But none of this – not any of it – would have happened had it not been for his daughter, Hannah, his family, his friends and the overwhelming support he received from customers who came to know him when he was a manager at Hugh’s Market on the Palos Verdes Peninsula – and later in Redondo Beach.
So many folks, he explained, wanted him to do the book that they supported the financial endeavor, sometimes with money and sometimes by just offering him a great network -such as connecting him with the artist, Lonni, who did the book’s illustration. Friends were so adamant that he do the book that they even helped him find printing and publishing companies to assist. To fund the book, he did he did car washes, worked extra hours and was shocked when he received offers of financial help from close friends and family.
As I am one who can never resist a success story and believe that's exactly where James is headed – I asked him how all the help he received from friends “such as the master net worker” who believed so much in his book that she gave him money to publish it—several tears rolled down his face.
“How does it make me feel? I feel overwhelmed,” he said, who explained that he didn’t learn until he reached his 30s that he had ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) which likely contributed to his learning disabilities. “I feel so happy that I can (finally) share my gift of creativity and imagination with the world. I feel elated. I am just so grateful for my friends and family everyday and I thank God for them helping me got so far.”
It’s as though his true life tale holds three stories. As a father who took on three step children who he loves as his own when he married, he said, it was his kids who inspired him -- in particular his youngest, Hannah, who surfs along with her older sister, Brooke. Many of his stories sprung from his kid's adventures.
Ants came about with several events that happened with Hannah -- such as when she found a drab gray rock on the beach when she was six and asked her Dad to make it into a necklace and the second when she began singing a little ditty: “Ants on the Rainbow…You’ll Never Know.”
All his kids begged him for nighttime stories and he’d say: “What do you want tonight: a scary story, a Bible story, an animal story?”
“I can tell a story about anything and I’ll use what’s around me to become my characters,” he explained while we were dining at the Omelette & Waffle Shop. “I can tell you a story about these things right now,” he said grabbing a bottle of steak sauce – Mr. King A-1 – the creamer – the Cream Queen – a glass of water – Wally the Water – and whatever else comes to mind. And then he’ll create a story.
That’s what happened when Hannah saw her grandmother sweeping swells of ants off her porch after an afternoon rain. As she swept, a rainbow filled the sky and the ants looked as though they were “on the rainbow,” which got Hannah to start singing “ants of a rainbow.” Her dad asked what it meant. “You’ll never know,” Hannah sang. For rest of the day, she charged around singing “ants on a rainbow…you’ll never know,” which inspired his first book.
Then came the day he took his kids to the beach (they all have nicknames like DC for Double Curl) which is what he named many of the primary surfing ants in his book after –- family members.
Hannah was also responsible for the magical blue stone necklace – which started out as a gray rock she discovered on the beach at Royal Palms. She asked her Dad to turn it into a necklace. He when he was drilling the stone, it broke. Hannah started crying. James promised to fix it, painted it blue, redid the hole and told her it had special powers to fight evil. (In the book, evil comes in the form of Smasher – a killer who leads the nasty Fire Ants.)
Finally, Hannah begged him – and so did his older kids – to tell the Ants on the Rainbow story. He mixed a pot of ingredients together in the mix – the ants, the blue stone and his kids. When he finished the story, his wife raced in the room. “”Write that down,’’” she reveled.
That’s when the entire family agreed to commit writing and publishing the book, which while he’s hopeful to make money, has paid him back in ways he could never have imagined. He recalled one day at book signing, a literary professor who was about 60, came up and criticized his book, dressing it up and down – and telling the author how he could have done it better.
Just then, a little girl about six stepped to his table and yelped: “Mr. Daos, Mr. Daos. I love your book. I love the Ants on the Rainbow!”
James turned to the professor and said: “I didn’t write this book for you. I wrote it for her and kids like her.”
But the best gift he ever received was from a little girl, about 8, who raced up confidently to the author’s table, told him she loved his books about ants and then announced: “You know I’m very special. Do you know why?” Jimmy looked at her and asked: “How so?”
“Because I have M.S.,” she revealed and Jimmy could feel the bites of tears in the back of his eyes. Her Dad, who looked gruff, wore a bandanna and was covered in tattoos, stood behind his little girl and when his daughter moved away he turned to Jimmy and said with tears in his eyes: “It’s not about making money. It’s about what you’ve done for my daughter. She loves your book. I’ll tell you now; you have already done your job on Earth.”
Proceeds of Jame’s book will go to the MS Society.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
YOUNG RESEARCHER ESTABLISHES THE ROAD FOR OTHER KIDS;
An 11-year-old at the time, San Pedro student sets the pace for new and younger researchers to come aboard at Cabrillo Aquarium's Aquatic Nursery
By Diana L. Chapman
As the first and youngest researcher in the Aquatic Nursery, Christian Stehlik began to panic when he came back daily to check on his baby, purple-striped jelly fish.
The research the 11-year-old boy outlined was to determine what baby jelly fish ate and thrived on. Instead – even though they were only about the size of a pin head – he found through his observations that when he counted his babies, they were vanishing one by one – and sometimes by the dozens.
“I just freaked out,” said Christian of his early beginnings as the youngest researcher at the Cabrillo Aquarium’s Aquatic Nursery. “I thought maybe I was counting them wrong, feeding them wrong.”
Concerned that the research using – moon jellies, brine and rotifer (a small plankton organism) – might be causing the destruction of the jelly fish, Christian immediately contacted the staff with his concerns. The staff was so impressed – and listened to what he had to say – that they focused on the “why” and discovered the aeration pumps were too strong and the currents were actually destroying the babies.
While the aquarium has always had ongoing research with older teenagers, it wasn’t until the new director, Kirsten Darrow, of the recently opened Aquatic Nursery, embraced younger children as potential researchers. Children who volunteered from 11 up, learned the laboratory rules and showed a sense of understanding and maturity when it came to the animals in the nursery, became potential candidates for the job. All work included rules that the babies must be cared for well – and that there was no stress to the critters, the director said. No dissections or stress related experiments were accepted, she explained.
On top of that, in order to qualify, young researchers had to write up a proposal which included the hypothesis, the time line, the methods and the materials that were necessary to undergo any experiments.
“This room is really intended for young growing baby animals and young scientist,” Kirsten explained to me as she carried her own baby, Forest, around with her in a pack throughout the nursery where all types of marine babies can be discovered from jelly fish to star fish. “That was what this room was made for.”
And Christian was the first to navigate the system, first with his study into purple striped jelly fish, and second into his study of “flat fish” – where he proposed the aquarium explore whether flat-fish, such as the horny-head turbot, California Halibut and English Soul – could cope with anything other than their natural environment when it came to their camouflage systems.
He outlined a study that would put the fish in tanks with brilliant pink sands in the bottom, or black pebbles – and contrast that with how they behaved compared to a tank filled with natural, colored sands from the beach. The fish often act like chameleons, changing colors so they can match their environment and protect themselves.
Christian said not only did the fish react poorly toward the variety of colors in their tanks, it appeared that some of them became outright hostile toward the unknown entities – striking out at the pink and the black bottoms or what biologists call “sub straights,” –the materials that make up the bottom of the tank.
“Whenever I tried to put them in the hot pink, I guess they saw it was white and they would change to a grayish color,” Christian said. “They just couldn’t adapt. They didn’t do to well with the black pebbles. They’d try to squirm in, but they couldn’t really use it to protect themselves.”
Since Christian paved the way for many other young researchers – having to take a hiatus once he was diagnosed with a rare illness, neuroblastoma, a cancer that typically starts in the stomach and often attaches itself to the spinal cord – a cadre of about 20 young researchers have joined the exploratory ranks of the nursery, the director said.
About three have had the exceptional abilities to be "natural observers" and shown the keen enough interest and dedication to perhaps make it in the future as marine biologist. Christian was one of those and opened the doors for others with his research.
"I've been interested in the ocean since I was five," Christian explained to me as he donned once again his white laboratory coat and began to explore the tanks with his sister, Rhea, 11. The research "just built up my confidence."
He believes more youngsters should be involved in the exploration of experimentation, "because it just makes people more responsible," for the fish, for wildlife in general and an understanding how precious life is.
Museum officials said you couldn't miss Christian's abilities toward research.
“One of the things we noticed about Christian was his observation skills,” said Andres Carillo, a laboratory assistant for the nursery. “He’s a natural observer and his thought process is much more scientific. It was just easier for him to link what was going on in all his projects.
“Before, we were always hesitant to take young researchers. We looked for kids 16-years or older. He’s just a natural.”
All this is good news for Christian, who has been going under long bouts of chemotherapy, living in and out of hospitals and doctors telling him he can’t go to the movies, be in large crowds of any type or be indoors with scores of other people. At his junior high graduation, he had to sit in a room virtually alone and watch the ceremonies via television.
So it was a breath of fresh air that the doctors allowed him to go visit his aquarium family where not only does he feel right at home, but the air circulation is of such good quality he can actually visit. He’s too tired to do research at this stage, but it thrills him, his father, Pete, his sister, and the rest of his family that he is able to return to the lab where he spent hours examining tiny critters.
When he returned, he comfortably slipped on his white lab coat just like the old days and got back to work doing what he’s so natural at – observing and paving the way for future scientists.
An 11-year-old at the time, San Pedro student sets the pace for new and younger researchers to come aboard at Cabrillo Aquarium's Aquatic Nursery
By Diana L. Chapman
As the first and youngest researcher in the Aquatic Nursery, Christian Stehlik began to panic when he came back daily to check on his baby, purple-striped jelly fish.
The research the 11-year-old boy outlined was to determine what baby jelly fish ate and thrived on. Instead – even though they were only about the size of a pin head – he found through his observations that when he counted his babies, they were vanishing one by one – and sometimes by the dozens.
“I just freaked out,” said Christian of his early beginnings as the youngest researcher at the Cabrillo Aquarium’s Aquatic Nursery. “I thought maybe I was counting them wrong, feeding them wrong.”
Concerned that the research using – moon jellies, brine and rotifer (a small plankton organism) – might be causing the destruction of the jelly fish, Christian immediately contacted the staff with his concerns. The staff was so impressed – and listened to what he had to say – that they focused on the “why” and discovered the aeration pumps were too strong and the currents were actually destroying the babies.
While the aquarium has always had ongoing research with older teenagers, it wasn’t until the new director, Kirsten Darrow, of the recently opened Aquatic Nursery, embraced younger children as potential researchers. Children who volunteered from 11 up, learned the laboratory rules and showed a sense of understanding and maturity when it came to the animals in the nursery, became potential candidates for the job. All work included rules that the babies must be cared for well – and that there was no stress to the critters, the director said. No dissections or stress related experiments were accepted, she explained.
On top of that, in order to qualify, young researchers had to write up a proposal which included the hypothesis, the time line, the methods and the materials that were necessary to undergo any experiments.
“This room is really intended for young growing baby animals and young scientist,” Kirsten explained to me as she carried her own baby, Forest, around with her in a pack throughout the nursery where all types of marine babies can be discovered from jelly fish to star fish. “That was what this room was made for.”
And Christian was the first to navigate the system, first with his study into purple striped jelly fish, and second into his study of “flat fish” – where he proposed the aquarium explore whether flat-fish, such as the horny-head turbot, California Halibut and English Soul – could cope with anything other than their natural environment when it came to their camouflage systems.
He outlined a study that would put the fish in tanks with brilliant pink sands in the bottom, or black pebbles – and contrast that with how they behaved compared to a tank filled with natural, colored sands from the beach. The fish often act like chameleons, changing colors so they can match their environment and protect themselves.
Christian said not only did the fish react poorly toward the variety of colors in their tanks, it appeared that some of them became outright hostile toward the unknown entities – striking out at the pink and the black bottoms or what biologists call “sub straights,” –the materials that make up the bottom of the tank.
“Whenever I tried to put them in the hot pink, I guess they saw it was white and they would change to a grayish color,” Christian said. “They just couldn’t adapt. They didn’t do to well with the black pebbles. They’d try to squirm in, but they couldn’t really use it to protect themselves.”
Since Christian paved the way for many other young researchers – having to take a hiatus once he was diagnosed with a rare illness, neuroblastoma, a cancer that typically starts in the stomach and often attaches itself to the spinal cord – a cadre of about 20 young researchers have joined the exploratory ranks of the nursery, the director said.
About three have had the exceptional abilities to be "natural observers" and shown the keen enough interest and dedication to perhaps make it in the future as marine biologist. Christian was one of those and opened the doors for others with his research.
"I've been interested in the ocean since I was five," Christian explained to me as he donned once again his white laboratory coat and began to explore the tanks with his sister, Rhea, 11. The research "just built up my confidence."
He believes more youngsters should be involved in the exploration of experimentation, "because it just makes people more responsible," for the fish, for wildlife in general and an understanding how precious life is.
Museum officials said you couldn't miss Christian's abilities toward research.
“One of the things we noticed about Christian was his observation skills,” said Andres Carillo, a laboratory assistant for the nursery. “He’s a natural observer and his thought process is much more scientific. It was just easier for him to link what was going on in all his projects.
“Before, we were always hesitant to take young researchers. We looked for kids 16-years or older. He’s just a natural.”
All this is good news for Christian, who has been going under long bouts of chemotherapy, living in and out of hospitals and doctors telling him he can’t go to the movies, be in large crowds of any type or be indoors with scores of other people. At his junior high graduation, he had to sit in a room virtually alone and watch the ceremonies via television.
So it was a breath of fresh air that the doctors allowed him to go visit his aquarium family where not only does he feel right at home, but the air circulation is of such good quality he can actually visit. He’s too tired to do research at this stage, but it thrills him, his father, Pete, his sister, and the rest of his family that he is able to return to the lab where he spent hours examining tiny critters.
When he returned, he comfortably slipped on his white lab coat just like the old days and got back to work doing what he’s so natural at – observing and paving the way for future scientists.
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