The Crowning ceremony - Photo by Terry Miller

On Friday, February 3, Lorenzo Blanco and Layla Cattani were officially crowned as Royal King and Queen of the 68th Annual Camellia Festival of Temple City. The announcement was made by Trish O’Brien, General Chairperson of the 2012 Camellia Festival. The Coronation Ceremony was held at the Community Center at Live Oak Park.

Excitement Reigns - Photo by Terry Miller

These first graders were chosen from a group of children that participated in our annual Play Day. The Royal Court will reign over the 2012 Camellia Festival, February 24 through 26 and will ride in the parade on February 25 along Las Tunas Drive on a special float build just for them. The Banner Carriers will carry their Majesties Royal Banner in the parade.
Members of the Royal Court

excited parents photograph their children at the ceremony - Photo by Terry Miller

Princess Carter Grimaldi
Prince Tyler Williams
Princess Madison Gillilan
Prince Noah Shifter
Queen Layla Cattani
King Lorenzo Blanco

Banner Carriers-
Madison Kidd
Aidan Chirivella
Emi Sakamoto
Maxson Sexton

The Banner Carriers helped Giordano Camera this year’s theme winner and a first grader at La Rosa Elementary School announce the theme for this year’s event “Let the Good Time Roll”.
Passing on their crowns and capes at the Coronation Ceremony were last year’s
Camellia Festival King Hector Gomez Jr. and Queen Abigail Alfonso.

Deputy Rick wio be Grand Marshal - Photo by Terry Miller

Trish O’Brien, General Chairperson announced the Honorary Grand Marshal, Deputy Rick Adams a 23-year veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Grand Marshal Jimmy Conrad professional soccer player and Temple City graduate for the 68th Annual Camellia Festival Parade.

Photos by Terry Miller

On Monday, January 2, 2012, at about 4:25PM, a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy conducted a traffic stop of a bicyclist in the 10500 block of Lower Azusa Avenue in Temple City.

During the contact,the deputy attempted to place the suspect under arrest for a narcotic related offense.

The suspect resisted the arrest and began fighting with the deputy. During the struggle, the suspect gabbed and attempted to take the deputy’s gun from his holster.

The deputy maintained control of his sidearm and broke the grasp of the suspect.

The suspect kicked and punched the deputy in his face and chest area during the fight.

As the suspect began to run from the location, the deputy ordered the suspect to stop.

As the suspect turned towards the deputy, he pulled a dark object from his waistband.

Believing the suspect had armed himself with a handgun and fearing for his safety, the deputy fired one round at the suspect.

The suspect ran southbound from the location.

It is unknown if the suspect was struck by the round.

A containment (search perimeter) was set up and the subsequent search of the area did not locate the suspect.

The suspect is WANTED for Attempted Murder of a Peace Officer. He is described as:

32-37 year old Hispanic male.
Black hair, light eyes (possibly hazel)
5’08′ – 5’11′ tall
160-180 pounds

The suspect left his bicycle at the scene.

The deputy involved in the incident was transported to a local hospital where he was treated for minor injuries received during the assault.

An ongoing investigation is being conducted by detectives from Temple Sheriff’s Station Detective Bureau, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

If you have any information about this incident, please contact Detective Randall Rue-Las, Temple Sheriff’s Station Detective Bureau, at (626) 285-7171. If you wish to remain anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (9274637) or using the website HTTP://lacrimestoppers.org

-Photo by Terry Miller

Thousands of people braved the 70-80 degree winter heat of Pasadena to see the TOR Parade on Januray 2 – one of the warmest Parade Days in recent memory. Those who camped out all night were in for mild weather thoroughout the night with a very quick warm up about half an hour into the parade.
-Photo by Terry Miller

The weather added a sense of fun and festivity to flaots that particulary catered to water sports such as Natural Balance whose surfing bulldogs who seemed to have fun fun fun ’til their handler took their surfboad away.

-Photo by Terry Miller

The theme of the Parade this year was Just Imagine and the majority of the 44 floats in this year’s parade did the theme justice although one veteran parade-goer did point out that the theme did seem a little vague.

With that in mind, there seemed like there was less animation and special effects this year than in years past. However, the crowd of untold thousands who lined the streets seemed to enjoy every minute.
There was a heavy police presence, and in fact one float, US Bank, was escoreted by approximate 10 Pasadena Police officers as it made its way down Colorado. The extra security presumably was because of the Occupy movement.
However there no incidents during the parade but their were 10 pre-parade arrests according to the Pasadena Police Dept.
After the parade, Occupy the Rose Parade saw about 4,000 plus people march behind the end of the parade carrying a massive Constitution replica and countless signs voicing opinions about banks and mortgage holders.
The protestors also formed a giant Octopus and continued their protest to City Hall where a Rally was held.

-Photo by Terry Miller
The list of the winners follows:
Sweepstakes Trophy for most beautiful entry:
Dole, “Preserving Paradise”
Animation Trophy for best display of animation:
Farmers Insurance Group, “The Unimaginable”
Craftsman Trophy for outstanding showmanship and dramatic impact more than 55 feet in length:
Trader Joe’s, “Hot Lava”
Crown City Innovation Trophy for Best use of imagination and innovation to advance the art of float design:
City of Los Angeles, “Dinosaurs in L.A.’s Backyard”
Directors’ Trophy Honoring Jacob Maarse for outstanding artistic merit in design and floral presentation:
Bayer Advanced, “Garden of Imagination”
Extraordinaire Trophy for most spectacular entry including floats that cannot retract to 55 feet in length:
Natural Balance Pet Foods Inc., “Surf’s Up”
Fantasy Trophy for best display of fantasy and imagination:
City of South Pasadena, “When Life Gives You Lemons”
Founders’ Trophy for most beautiful entry built and decorated by volunteers from the sponsoring community or organization:
Downey Rose Float Association, “Enchanted Paradise”
Governor’s Trophy for Best depiction of life in California:
City of Torrance, “Looking Back, Moving Forward”
Grand Marshal’s Trophy for most creative concept and design:
Discover Card, “The Dream Believers”
Bob Hope Humor Trophy for most comical and amusing:
La Canada Flintridge Tournament of Roses Association, “If Pigs Could Fly”
International Trophy for most beautiful entry from outside the United States:
China Airlines, “Spirit of Prosperity and Harmony”
Isabella Coleman Trophy for best presentation of color and color harmony:
Odd Fellows & Rebekahs, “Shining Knights Still Exist”
Judges’ Special Trophy for outstanding showmanship and dramatic impact:
Donate Life, “…One More Day”
Lathrop K. Leishman Trophy for most beautiful entry from a non-commercial sponsor:
Kaiser Permanente, “Every Body Walk”

Mayor’s Trophy for Most outstanding city entry:
Burbank Tournament of Roses Association, “The Dream Machine”
________________________________________
National Trophy for Best depiction of life in the United States:
Western Asset Management, “Imagine in America”
________________________________________
Past Presidents’ Trophy for most innovative use of both floral and non floral materials:
Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles, “100 Years of Girls Scouts – What Will You Do Today”
________________________________________
Princesses’ Trophy most beautiful entry under 35 feet in length:
Rotary International, “Inching Towards the End of Polio”
________________________________________
Queen’s Trophy for best use of roses:
AIDS Healthcare Foundation, “Our Champion”
________________________________________
Theme Trophy for best presentation of the Rose Parade theme:
US Bank, “Idea Factory”
________________________________________
Tournament Special Trophy for exceptional merit in multiple classifications:
RFD-TV, “Happy Trails”
________________________________________
Tournament Volunteers’ Trophy for best floral design of parade theme under 35 feet in length:
Shriners Hospitals for Children, “Soaring for Kids”

Power to the People - At least to some in Temple City - Photo by Terry Miller

Damage is projected at over $10 million.

City officials estimate nearly 500 fallen trees based on calls for service and crew observations.

Live Oak Avenue Monday morning - Photo by Terry Miller

Southern California Edison is repairing 17 snapped power poles and numerous transmission lines.

Electricity is being restored gradually; about 2,000 customers still remain without power.

There are no reported fatalities.

About 4,000 housing units sustained some type of property damage.

City and Southern California Edison (SCE) crews are focused on clean-up and recovery efforts.

City leaders are working with Senator Liu and Assemblymember Portantino to pressure Governor Brown to issue a state of emergency for Temple City and other affected communities.

Electrical Outage

Approximately 20% of the city remains without power. The neighborhoods most affected are those near Live Oak Park.

SCE crews are working around the clock to restore electricity. Their focus remains on addressing the major breach in power lines along Live Oak Ave. (between Baldwin and Temple City Blvd.).

According to SCE’s website, power should be restored sometime this evening. Customers with electricity may see a temporary interruption in service, which is necessary to allow crews to complete necessary system repairs.

Updates on estimated power restoration times can be obtained by visiting www.sce.com or calling City Hall at (626) 285-2171.

Requests, Resources and Advisories

Residents are advised not to call 9-1-1 or other emergency numbers unless it is a life-threatening emergency. City Hall operators, including those who speak Chinese, are available to coordinate service requests and referrals. Call (626) 285-2171.

Residents are reminded not move downed power lines but to call 9-1-1 and stay in a safe area until SCE crews arrive. An alternate number to call is the SCE customer service line at (800) 655-4555.

Limited supplies of free ice, bottled water, packaged food, blankets and flashlights are available at City Hall, 9701 Las Tunas Dr; and Live Oak Park Community Center, 10144 Bogue St. Donations are courtesy of SCE (ice, water and flashlights), the City of Temple City (packaged food and flashlights) and Taiwan Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation (blankets).

Residents requiring temporary shelter can call the American Red Cross at (800) RED-CROSS.

Until further notice, Live Oak Park Community Center will remain open 24/7 to those without electricity. Services include a charging station, reading lounge, study area, and television room with family-friendly programming.

City staff members are checking on the needs of seniors and those with limited mobility. Call (626) 285-2171 for assistance.

Residents should verify all credentials of anyone offering to perform inspection or repair work on their property. To report a suspected scam, call the Temple Sheriff’s Station at (626) 285-7171 or City Hall at (626) 285-2171.

Public Safety

Additional sheriff’s deputies remain deployed to increase evening patrol, and to direct traffic through key unsignaled intersections.

Only three instances of crime have occurred since December 1: a purse snatching on Las Tunas; a residential burglary on the 10000 block of Olive St.; and a vehicle burglary on the 5200 block of Farago Ave.

The city’s emergency operations center will remain open until power is restored citywide.

Tree and Debris Removal

Tree crews are actively responding to reports of fallen trees, limbs and branches. Trees that have fallen on homes and/or have blocked roadways from emergency vehicles are first priority. Full clean-up could take several days.

The removal and clearing of trees not in the public right-of-way is the responsibility of the property owner. Those hiring a private company to cut or remove trees should check if they are licensed or bonded.

Residents are asked to dispose of debris and tree limbs near the street curb, and wrap in bundles no larger than 4 ft. in length to expedite the clean-up process. Crews will conduct ongoing collection service through mid-December.

“No Parking” restrictions take effect this week to allow crews in removing debris from stretches of city streets. Restrictions are temporary and limited to one day. Posted signs will provide residents with 24-hour notice.

To allow for recovery and clean-up, overnight parking restrictions are relaxed through Sunday, December 18. Overnight parking permits are not required.

Road Closures and Inoperative Signals

The following road closures remain in effect until further notice: Live Oak Ave. between Baldwin and Cloverly; and Temple City Blvd. between Las Tunas and La Rosa.

The majority of traffic signals without power are along the Las Tunas corridor, and on Temple City Blvd. from Woodruff to Lower Azusa. Drivers are asked to treat an inoperative signal as a four-way stop.

Damage Claims

Residents are encouraged to first contact their homeowner’s insurance agency if their property was damaged by the winds.

Those wishing to file a claim for damages resulting from a city tree must submit a completed claim form. That document can be downloaded from the city website at www.templecity.us. Staff will be available to answer questions and provide assistance at City Hall starting 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 6.

City Facilities

Regularly scheduled programming and services are in effect at Live Oak Park. City Hall will reopen for normal business operations on Tuesday, Decem

Power to the People - This SCE worker in Temple city helped restore power to some on Live Oak Monday morning - Photo by Terry Miller

Damage is projected at over $10 million.

City officials estimate nearly 500 fallen trees based on calls for service and crew observations.

Southern California Edison is repairing 17 snapped power poles and numerous transmission lines.

Electricity is being restored gradually; about 2,000 customers still remain without power.

There are no reported fatalities.

About 4,000 housing units sustained some type of property damage.

City and Southern California Edison (SCE) crews are focused on clean-up and recovery efforts.

City leaders are working with Senator Liu and Assemblymember Portantino to pressure Governor Brown to issue a state of emergency for Temple City and other affected communities.

Electrical Outage

Approximately 20% of the city remains without power. The neighborhoods most affected are those near Live Oak Park.

SCE crews are working around the clock to restore electricity. Their focus remains on addressing the major breach in power lines along Live Oak Ave. (between Baldwin and Temple City Blvd.).

According to SCE’s website, power should be restored sometime this evening. Customers with electricity may see a temporary interruption in service, which is necessary to allow crews to complete necessary system repairs.

Updates on estimated power restoration times can be obtained by visiting www.sce.com or calling City Hall at (626) 285-2171.

Requests, Resources and Advisories

Residents are advised not to call 9-1-1 or other emergency numbers unless it is a life-threatening emergency. City Hall operators, including those who speak Chinese, are available to coordinate service requests and referrals. Call (626) 285-2171.

Residents are reminded not move downed power lines but to call 9-1-1 and stay in a safe area until SCE crews arrive. An alternate number to call is the SCE customer service line at (800) 655-4555.

Limited supplies of free ice, bottled water, packaged food, blankets and flashlights are available at City Hall, 9701 Las Tunas Dr; and Live Oak Park Community Center, 10144 Bogue St. Donations are courtesy of SCE (ice, water and flashlights), the City of Temple City (packaged food and flashlights) and Taiwan Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation (blankets).

Residents requiring temporary shelter can call the American Red Cross at (800) RED-CROSS.

Until further notice, Live Oak Park Community Center will remain open 24/7 to those without electricity. Services include a charging station, reading lounge, study area, and television room with family-friendly programming.

City staff members are checking on the needs of seniors and those with limited mobility. Call (626) 285-2171 for assistance.

Residents should verify all credentials of anyone offering to perform inspection or repair work on their property. To report a suspected scam, call the Temple Sheriff’s Station at (626) 285-7171 or City Hall at (626) 285-2171.

Public Safety

Additional sheriff’s deputies remain deployed to increase evening patrol, and to direct traffic through key unsignaled intersections.

Only three instances of crime have occurred since December 1: a purse snatching on Las Tunas; a residential burglary on the 10000 block of Olive St.; and a vehicle burglary on the 5200 block of Farago Ave.

The city’s emergency operations center will remain open until power is restored citywide.

Tree and Debris Removal

Tree crews are actively responding to reports of fallen trees, limbs and branches. Trees that have fallen on homes and/or have blocked roadways from emergency vehicles are first priority. Full clean-up could take several days.

The removal and clearing of trees not in the public right-of-way is the responsibility of the property owner. Those hiring a private company to cut or remove trees should check if they are licensed or bonded.

Residents are asked to dispose of debris and tree limbs near the street curb, and wrap in bundles no larger than 4 ft. in length to expedite the clean-up process. Crews will conduct ongoing collection service through mid-December.

“No Parking” restrictions take effect this week to allow crews in removing debris from stretches of city streets. Restrictions are temporary and limited to one day. Posted signs will provide residents with 24-hour notice.

To allow for recovery and clean-up, overnight parking restrictions are relaxed through Sunday, December 18. Overnight parking permits are not required.

Road Closures and Inoperative Signals

The following road closures remain in effect until further notice: Live Oak Ave. between Baldwin and Cloverly; and Temple City Blvd. between Las Tunas and La Rosa.

The majority of traffic signals without power are along the Las Tunas corridor, and on Temple City Blvd. from Woodruff to Lower Azusa. Drivers are asked to treat an inoperative signal as a four-way stop.

Damage Claims

Residents are encouraged to first contact their homeowner’s insurance agency if their property was damaged by the winds.

Those wishing to file a claim for damages resulting from a city tree must submit a completed claim form. That document can be downloaded from the city website at www.templecity.us. Staff will be available to answer questions and provide assistance at City Hall starting 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 6.

City Facilities

Regularly scheduled programming and services are in effect at Live Oak Park. City Hall will reopen for normal business operations on Tuesday, December 6.

A Temple City worker evaluates the damage on Primrose - Photo by Terry Miller

Colossal Windstorm Leave Thousands without Power
Trees Down/Cars Damaged in Most Cities in San Gabriel Valley

By Terry Miller
A colossal windstorm with hurricane-force winds raced through the San Gabriel Valley early Thursday, damaging buildings, uprooting hundreds of trees and knocking out power to thousands across the San Gabriel Valley.
“Ive never seen anything like this before.” said one long time Temple City Diane Johnson. Her house on Primrose suffered the aftermath of a giant tree which fell and landed on her neighbor’s roof and then on her three cars in the driveway.
As Beacon news photographers were on scene, Temple city officials speculated that the tree was city property and that the residents would be covered for damages.

While Temple City was moping up Friday morning and assessing the massive destruction brought on by Thursday mornings 80 mph winds firefighters and emergency workers from throughout the county were meeting at Temple City Hall discussing their game plan.
Southern California Edison was racing around the clock to restore power in all cities but Temple City seemed particularly hard hit with power not expected back until Sunday in some areas.
On Thursday evening residents and volunteers were helping divert traffic from danger areas in Temple City.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonovitch declared a state of emergency in Los Angeles county…opening up the federal funds needed to help with the clean up Most local schools and many businesses remain closed Friday due to a lack of power.
Police officers in all cities are reminding residents to be cautious and respond to traffic light outages as a four way stop sign.
Cable companies including Charter say thousands are without telephone, TV and internet.

Bill Harrington captured this dramatic scene at Live Oak and TC Blvd. Photograph by Harrington

Josette Temple stands proudly next to her grandfather's bust - Photo by Terry Miller

Temple City Education Center Students Rise to the Occasion and Help Homeless Vets During ‘Stand Down’ Oct 20
Local Students Collect Blankets and Write Letters to Homeless Vets

When Local students heard that there will be a Veteran’s Day Stand Down on October 20, which has been set up to benefit local homeless Veterans. Students and staff have collected new blankets, and the children were assigned to write letters to the Veterans as well as newspaper articles (complete with interviews) as part of their writing lessons for Temple City Education Center, 6410 Rosemead Blvd., San Gabriel.

“STAND DOWN” is an event various Veterans organizations together with their local and federal service organizations put together about once or every so often when the need is greatest to help the Homeless Veterans and today there are more women Veterans with children that are suffering the horrors of displacement and violence, left homeless, penniless and with children, we as Veterans have set up what we call Stand Down where a Veteran can come in, be fed three squares for a day or more (depending on volunteers, donations and logistics), showers, clothing, personal hygiene, medical, mental assistance and counseling and much needed safe environment to relax and/or sleep for a few hours.
We expect over three (300) Veterans, This gives the various agencies to process these Veterans and get them into the system for the services they need, medical and other assistance. So far six City Mayors from Arcadia, Monrovia, Duarte, Baldwin Park, El Monte, West Covina are putting items and donations together for this special project, local law enforcement, military and L. A. County Supervisors will help. If you know of any group or agencies or companies that could help in donations both monetary and product such bath soap, tooth brushes, toothpaste, combs, shampoo, deodorent, towels, etc. plus new clothing slacks, shirts sweaters, windbreakers, socks (lots of them), and/or any food service company that would donate various meals it would help. The main help we need are volunteers to serve and bus tables after each group of Veterans is fed throughout the day, people that can cook and those that will help break down the donations into packages to distribute to each veteran. The local Army Reserve units will help in the set-up and break-down for the day for the six Reserve units stationed at this reserve center two have just been deployed to Afghanistan).

Here are a few letters from students at the school:

Veterans Stand Down “A hand up … not a hand-out.”
By Trevor Thai

When I heard of the Veterans Stand Down to be held on October 20, 2011, at Whittier Narrows Park, I was shocked. The Stand Down is something big. It is being held to assist over three hundred homeless veterans from this area. I was shocked to think that there are people who have been willing to give their lives for us, and yet they are now homeless. Twenty-six students from the Temple City Education Center Writing Class are donating blankets to the Veterans who are homeless. These blankets aren’t the best or worst, but they show a sign or symbol that we care about the Veterans. Jimmy, a sixth-grade student who attends Emperor Elementary commented, “I feel bad because they helped out country, and when they returned they were homeless.” My objective is writing this article is to inspire you to help this major cause. To find out more about how you can help, please call Dr. Frances Siu at (323)470-2631 or contact her at fsiu@calstatela.edu.

Dear Veterans,

I’m very sorry to hear that some of you are homeless after you fought for our country. I’ve heard that you are having a Stand Down. I know that the blankets are small, but I hope that they will keep your hearts warm. I know you worked hard to keep our country strong, and I will do the best I can to do the same.

Sincerely,Nicole, 6th Grade

Dear Veteran,

Here is a nice blanket for you. I hope it keeps you warm since the winter is coming up. I know it’s not much, but I hope that it will help. I really appreciate that you risked your life to help America. I am so sorry that a lot of people turned you down for jobs.

I think that you deserve a lot better than what you have. My grandfather fought in the war. If he were homeless, I would want to help. That’ why I am trying to help you. I just wanted you to know that I really care about you.

Your fellow American,
Ariana, 6th Grade

Giving and Caring
By Alison Hwang, 5th Grade

The students at the Temple City Education Writing Class have prepared some blankets and cards for the Veterans. They will bring the blankets and cards to the Veterans on October 20, 2011, Veterans Stand Down at Whittier Narrows Park. The students wanted to help the homeless veterans and thank them for their work and sacrifice. If you would like to know more about how you can help with the Veterans Stand Down, please contact Dr. Frances Siu at fsiu@calstatela.edu.

Students and Blankets for Veterans
By Kelly Zhen, 5th Grade

Students at Temple city Education Writing class are gathering blankets for the Veterans! The students and their teacher are going to give the Veterans these blankets on the 20th of October. They have prepared this for the Veterans Stand Down. They want to help the Veterans because some of them are homeless, and they respect the Veterans. One of the students interviewed, Claire, said, “I feel grateful that we have Veterans, and I hope they won’t be homeless anymore.” A second student, Alison, commented, “I feel kind of sad because they worked really hard and they didn’t get anything in return.” To help with the Veterans Stand Down, contact Dr. Frances Siu at fsiu@calstatela.edu.

Blankets for Defenders
By Addy Fu, 5th Grade

The students of Temple City Education Center writing class are happy to donate blankets to the Veterans. But we’re sad to hear that they’re homeless. They truly deserve more than just being homeless, which is why we will send the blankets on October 20th when they have their Stand Down at Whittier Narrows Park. When I interviewed Edward he said that he was very happy to help them with small blankets that would keep them warm. Hubert was happy that they are alive at all, which really makes sense. If you would like to help with the Veterans Stand Down as well, please contact Dr. Frances Siu at fsiu@calstatela.edu.

Proud of Students Willing to Use Time
By Megan Tran, 5th Grade

On October 7, 2011, the students of the Temple City Education Center writing class collected blankets and wrote letters for the Veterans who are homeless. They prepared these things for the Veterans Stand Down on October 20th at 6410 Rosemead Blvd., the location of the school. They students are doing these things to help the Veterans and also to thank them. According to one grateful student, Ariana, “These Veterans deserve better lives.” You can contact Dr. Frances Siu at fsiu@calstatela.edu if you would also like to help with the Stand Down.

Students Support Veterans
By Ariana Harvey, 6th Grade

On October 7, 2011, the students from the Temple City Education Center writing class held at 6410 Rosemead Blvd., are collecting blankets and writing letters to the homeless veterans because we think that they deserve much better, especially because they risked their lives to help America. We are doing this to prepare for the October 20th Veterans Stand Down. We want to thank the Veterans for what they have done. Please contact Dr. Frances Siu at fsiu@calstatela.edu if you would also like to help with the Stand Down.

Sample letters to go with the blankets

Dear Veteran of America,

Greetings to you, Veteran of America, who fought for us while we continued on with life. I heard about the Stand Down in Whittier Narrows Park on October 20th. I want to thank you for what you did for our sake and for our country. To me, fighting for freedom is very courageous and sacrificial. I feel bad about what is happening. I feel as strongly and as patriotic about this as I do about the Twin Towers incident. Being an America is very neat because we have Veterans, such as you, who fought for America. All in all, being an American is an honor. I thank you for protecting us and for all you have done for our country.

An American who cares,
Trevor, 7th Grade

Dear Veteran,

Thank you for risking your own life to serve our beloved country. I’m deeply sorry that after you came back, you’re unfortunately homeless. We’ll give all our might to give you more support, but all we can give you for now is a soft, warm blanket. I hope this will warm you up during the fall and winter seasons. Again, thanks so much for fighting bravely. We wish you all the best.

Sincerely,
Claire, 7th Grade

Dear Veterans,

I’m very sorry to hear that some of you are homeless after you fought for our country. I’ve heard that you are having a Stand Down. I know that the blankets are small, but I hope that they will keep your hearts warm. I know you worked hard to keep our country strong, and I will do the best I can to do the same.

Sincerely,

Nicole, 6th Grade

Dear Veteran,

Here is a nice blanket for you. I hope it keeps you warm since the winter is coming up. I know it’s not much, but I hope that it will help. I really appreciate that you risked your life to help America. I am so sorry that a lot of people turned you down for jobs.

I think that you deserve a lot better than what you have. My grandfather fought in the war. If he were homeless, I would want to help. That’ why I am trying to help you. I just wanted you to know that I really care about you.

Your fellow American,
Ariana, 6th Grade

Dear Veterans,

We have heard that many of you are homeless. Take this blanket as a token of our gratitude. Thank you for fighting for our country. And I’m sorry if some of your friends in the war died. We will remember all of you as our guardians. We heard that there will be a Stand Down on October 20th. I hope you at least get enough food for your health. This blanket might not be much, but I hope it keeps you warm during the winter. Thank you!

A 5th grader who’s thankful,

Megan

Dear Veterans,

Thank you for protecting our country. I am sorry you can’t go back to your jobs. You’re probably thinking like this: “What! I put my life at risk, and I just get to be homeless!” I am sorry that happened. By the way, my name is Edward, and I am 10. I’m just saying that so you know me. I am really sorry that this happened.

Concerned,

Edward, 5th Grade

Dear Veterans,

I heard what is going on October 20th. But really I care about you because you served our country. I will give you a blanket. I know the blanket is not enough, but I hope it will warm you. I know you sacrifice for us, and I will do the same. I hope you don’t feel homeless again.

Sincerely,

Amanda, 4th Grade

More below
Dear Veterans,

Hi, Veterans of America, our country salutes you for fighting for our lives. I heard about the Stand Down at Whittier Narrows Park on October 20th. Fighting for our lives and freedom was very brave. I feel very sad that you lost your job. I want to give you this blanket for all the great things you have done for us.

Thankfully,

Julian, 5th Grade

Dear Veteran,

Hi, my name is Hubert. I’m very sorry you lost your jobs. We gave you a blanket. I know it’s small, but at least it might keep you warm. America appreciates your assistance. I hope you enjoy the blanket.

Sincerely,
Hubert, 5th Grade

Dear Veteran,

Thank you for serving our country! I realize you had to go through tough times. In the end, all that really matters is that you came home safely. My writing class and I have provided blankets to keep you warm in the cold, dark nights. Once again, thank you so much.

Sincerely,

Jordan, 7th Grade

Dear Veterans,

Thank you for fighting and serving our country. We appreciate all you did to save our patriotic country. In return, we will give you blankets for your bravery. We hope that they will keep you warm when you are out in the cold. Thank you for serving our country.

Sincerely,

Putter, 4th Grade

Dear Veterans,

Thank you for serving our country. I know you are having a Stand Down. Have a good Stand Down. Here is a blanket. I know it is small. It will warm your heart. I respect you.

Your fellow American,

Ricky, 5th Grade

Dear Veteran,

Thank you for fighting in the war. Thank you for all the things you did to give our country freedom. Well . . . first let me introduce myself. My name is Naomi. I am in 4th grade. We are going to give you a blanket to try to keep you warm this winter.

First I am going to thank you for letting our country not die. You risked your life to go to the war, so thank you. Thank you for everything that you did for us.

Sincerely,

Naomi, 4th Grade

Dear Veterans,

I heard that you were having a Stand Down. We’re sending blankets to you Veterans. I know it won’t do much. But I hope it will keep you warm in the winter. We appreciate how you fought for our country. I hope it will keep you warm throughout the winter.

Sincerely Alex, 4th Grade

Hello Veterans,

I heard that you have become homeless. I disagree with people not hiring you, even when you fought in wars. I hope that the blankets keep you warm at night.

Sincerely,
Brendon, 5th Grade

Dear Veteran,

Thank you for sacrificing your life for us. I heard that you were having a Stand Down on the 20th. Here is a blanket to keep you warm this winter. I also hope it keeps your heart warm too.

Sincerely,

Shannon, 4th Grade

Dear Veteran,

I heard that you will have a Stand Down. I am going to give you a blanket with a letter. It’s not that much, but I hope it will keep you warm. Thank you for helping and fighting for America. I hope you will have a good, happy day at the Stand Down.

Sincerely,

Joshua, 5th Grade

Dear Veteran,

Thank you for serving our country. When I heard that some of the Veterans are homeless, I feel very sad. I hope these blankets keep you warm. I know it’s very small, but let it be a reminder that we care for you.

Your fellow American,

Alison,

Dear Veterans,

Hi, my name is Jimmy. I know you are homeless. I am sending you a blanket for everything you have done for our country. I know this blanket won’t last forever, but I hope this will last you this winter.

Sincerely,

Jimmy, 6th Grade

Top row, from left: #5 Monauar Lufti (Alverno High School), #93 Lauren Nicole Cox (La Canada High School), #143 Heather Ruth Norris (Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy), #265 Drew Helen Washington (Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy) #119 Erin Kelly Green (John Marshall Fundamental High School), #8 Kimberly Victoria Ostiller (Flintridge Preparatory School), #4 Gabriela Viviana Carino (Arcadia High School)

Fourth row, from left: #340 Marika Ruth Stanford-Moore (South Pasadena High School), #368 Grace Chapman Shelton (Pasadena Polytechnic School), #396 Victoria Michelle Carlos (South Pasadena High School), #415 Caroline Blanca Kenney (San Marino High School), #375 Taylor McKenzie Levine (South Pasadena High School), #350 Morgan Eliza Devaud (La Canada High School), #330 Stephanie Grace Hynes (Maranatha High School)

Third row, from left: #449 Brittany Nicole Angiuli (Mayfield Senior School), #455 Sarah Nicole Zuno (Franklin High School), #489 Alexa Jane Delahooke (San Marino High School), #492 Lois N. Gordon (Pasadena High School), #458 Hanan Bulto Worku (Pasadena High School), #454 Evelyn Frances Ashleigh (South Pasadena High School), #447 Phene Emma Wardlaw (San Marino High School) Second row, from left: #548
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Chloe Alessandra Acebo (South Pasadena High School), #579 Miranda Renee Gontz (South Pasadena High School), #725 Teni Verjin Jebian (Pasadena City College), #798 Katherine Elizabeth Robbins (La Canada High School), #693 Breeana Margaret Koemans (Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy), #553 Andrea Florence Sweeney (Mayfield Senior School), #505 Mackenzie Elizabeth Lee (Pasadena Polytechnic School)

Brittany Marie Ribaya from Temple City - Photo by Terry Miller

First row, from left: #836 Katherine Sunda DuMont (San Marino High School), #858 Cynthia Megan Louie (La Salle High School), #904 Lauren Marie Valdes (La Salle High School), #862 Dana Tran (Temple City High School), #852 Brittany Marie Ribaya (Temple City High School), #815 Brittany Ann Woo (Arcadia High School)

The seven-member Royal Court will be announced from those finalists on Oct. 10. The Rose Queen will be named in a Tournament House ceremony on Oct. 18.

The Queen and Court will reign over the 2012 Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game on Jan. 2, since New Year’s Day falls on a Sunday.

The 2012 parade, the 123rd, is themed “Just Imagine.”

Dana Tran from Temple City reacts as she is photographed as one of the finalists - Photo by Terry Miller

Photos by Terry Miller

Temple City Residents will, however, have to spend a penny to get to West Covina High School, 1609 E. Cameron Ave., in West Covina in order to receive one of these free, water friendly porcelain thrones.

1,000 high-efficiency toilets will be given to water district customers. A high efficiency toilet (HET) can reduce water consumption by up to 45 gallons per day.

Households can receive up to two (2) free HETs on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The TOTO Eco Drake toilet will be offered and retails for over $200. The toilet features a contemporary, high-profile design that uses 1.3 gallons of water per flush (in comparison to pre-1992 toilets which use more than 3.5 gallons of water per flush).

Participants must bring a current water bill and photo ID. The bill must show the name of the water company and account number for the address where the HET(s) will be installed.

Residential addresses that previously participated in the program and already received a HET or ultra-low flush toilet are not eligible to participate.

Participants must return their old toilet(s) to West Covina High School between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 29.

For more information, call the District at (866) 308-8391 or visit www.usgvmwd.org.