Awake the force
Star Wars Force Awakens. My review. First and
foremost all I have to say is WOW! That has
to be as good if not better then the
origional of 1977.
It started out in a similer way to the 1977
film. The story Disney and JJ Abrams came up
with was true to star wars lore.
Most of the origional star wars cast had some
part in it in one form or another. This
includes the Malinium Falcon which is a star
in its own right as well as C3po and R2D2.
The new chairacters introduced were
briliantly done. We get Hon Solos son as the
dark villon. Then there is the storm tooper
that surns to the good side when he realises
what evil awaits the galaxy.
For me the biggest surprise came with the
newest jedi. A female scavanger who discovers
a droid that has a map to the wherabouts of
Luke Skywalker.
She quickly discovers she has jedi powers
after assisting Hon Solo and the former storm
trooper. As for the death star, the suposid
death star is a planet the dark side has
turned into a weapon even more powerful then
even the death star.
All in all both acting and storyline was very
well done. I would certainly reccomend seeing
this movie weather you are a sci fi geek or
normal movie goer.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Thursday, December 3, 2015
San Bernardino the community
San Bernardino the community
By now you have probably heared 14 people
were killed by 3 gunnmen. Two out of the
three gunmen were killed by police. Their
black SUV rittled with bullet holes like
Bonnie and Cliede.
What you don't know is the community in witch
this horrific shooting took place. Most
people don't know the shootings took place in
a center for the mentaly dissabled. Accross
the street from that on Waterman Ave, is a
golf course.
In addition to the center for the mentaly
dissabled, on the side street across from the
shooting scene is a school for the blind.
I am reporting all this because it hits close
to home for me, as I only live maybe 4 miles
or so from the scene and occationaly
volunteer at the blind school accross the
street.
San Bernardino is a strong city. It WILL
survive. It has survived the street gangs and
city bankrupsy.
Yesterday the city and surounding areas were
turned upside down because of this. When you
go home tonight hug those you love and tell
them you love them because you never know if
it will be the last time you see them.
By now you have probably heared 14 people
were killed by 3 gunnmen. Two out of the
three gunmen were killed by police. Their
black SUV rittled with bullet holes like
Bonnie and Cliede.
What you don't know is the community in witch
this horrific shooting took place. Most
people don't know the shootings took place in
a center for the mentaly dissabled. Accross
the street from that on Waterman Ave, is a
golf course.
In addition to the center for the mentaly
dissabled, on the side street across from the
shooting scene is a school for the blind.
I am reporting all this because it hits close
to home for me, as I only live maybe 4 miles
or so from the scene and occationaly
volunteer at the blind school accross the
street.
San Bernardino is a strong city. It WILL
survive. It has survived the street gangs and
city bankrupsy.
Yesterday the city and surounding areas were
turned upside down because of this. When you
go home tonight hug those you love and tell
them you love them because you never know if
it will be the last time you see them.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
A day to remember
A Day to remember
By: C.J. Ellington
It started out with the national
anthem sung by Leslie Christopher. today is a
day to remember all in the Transgender
community who lost their lives.
November 19th marks "Transgender day
of remembrance". The Loma Linda Veterans
Hospital had an hour long cerimony sponcered
by the VA Hospital's Transgender program.
On behalf of the VA, Assistant
director Prachi Asher spoke on the importance
of the program.
Erika McIntosh provided music for all
to enjoy. Folloing Erika was Key note speaker
Susan Ladd.
Ladd, retired airforce and dissabled
vet, spoke on what it was like for her being
and growing up transgender.
Names were read of all the
transgender individuals who have died in the
last year.
Transgender suicide and murder are on
the rise. The focus of holding such an event
anualy is important to get out the meassage
of love and not hate.
Personal note, being transgender is
not an easy life nor is it one that you
choose. It chooses you. My heart goes out to
those who have lost their lives to hate.
By: C.J. Ellington
It started out with the national
anthem sung by Leslie Christopher. today is a
day to remember all in the Transgender
community who lost their lives.
November 19th marks "Transgender day
of remembrance". The Loma Linda Veterans
Hospital had an hour long cerimony sponcered
by the VA Hospital's Transgender program.
On behalf of the VA, Assistant
director Prachi Asher spoke on the importance
of the program.
Erika McIntosh provided music for all
to enjoy. Folloing Erika was Key note speaker
Susan Ladd.
Ladd, retired airforce and dissabled
vet, spoke on what it was like for her being
and growing up transgender.
Names were read of all the
transgender individuals who have died in the
last year.
Transgender suicide and murder are on
the rise. The focus of holding such an event
anualy is important to get out the meassage
of love and not hate.
Personal note, being transgender is
not an easy life nor is it one that you
choose. It chooses you. My heart goes out to
those who have lost their lives to hate.
Friday, November 6, 2015
Brent for vets
Brent for Vets
11/6/2015: Award winning country music artist
Brent Paine performed a sepcial concert for
the veterans.
The 2 hour long concert took place 1pm till
3pm at the Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital in Loma
Linda Ca.
Mr Paine sang cover songs as well as his own
to houner the vets.
The concert took place on the eye clinic
patio with many of the patients from the
hospital in attendance.
Hospital volunteers were on hand to assist
patients from the community living center who
couldn't get out on their own.
The concert was to promote and benifit the
"Guitars for vets" program, as well as houner
POW/MIA vets.
At the end of the show, copies of Brent
Paines new album were given away as his
apreciation for all who served.
11/6/2015: Award winning country music artist
Brent Paine performed a sepcial concert for
the veterans.
The 2 hour long concert took place 1pm till
3pm at the Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital in Loma
Linda Ca.
Mr Paine sang cover songs as well as his own
to houner the vets.
The concert took place on the eye clinic
patio with many of the patients from the
hospital in attendance.
Hospital volunteers were on hand to assist
patients from the community living center who
couldn't get out on their own.
The concert was to promote and benifit the
"Guitars for vets" program, as well as houner
POW/MIA vets.
At the end of the show, copies of Brent
Paines new album were given away as his
apreciation for all who served.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Transgender Holliday part 2
Transgender Holliday part2
It's that time of year again. The time of
year we get to be ourselves and it's
considered normal.
The end of this week marks Halloween.
Halloween for most people is typicly known
for dressing up in scary costumes.
We arn't most people, although our numbers
are growing as more of us come out.
For us, Halloween means we get to go out as
our true selves. It also means we can find
wigs at Walmart for cheap.
The rise of Catlyn Jenner has been both good
and bad for us. The down side is the horibly
done costume of her.
Not only is the Caitlyn Jenner costume poorly
made but it's in bad taste not worthy of the
trans community.
We have a tough time as it is. Luckaly this
week we can go places and not have people
stare at us, as people think "it's only a
costume". Little do they know ;).
It's that time of year again. The time of
year we get to be ourselves and it's
considered normal.
The end of this week marks Halloween.
Halloween for most people is typicly known
for dressing up in scary costumes.
We arn't most people, although our numbers
are growing as more of us come out.
For us, Halloween means we get to go out as
our true selves. It also means we can find
wigs at Walmart for cheap.
The rise of Catlyn Jenner has been both good
and bad for us. The down side is the horibly
done costume of her.
Not only is the Caitlyn Jenner costume poorly
made but it's in bad taste not worthy of the
trans community.
We have a tough time as it is. Luckaly this
week we can go places and not have people
stare at us, as people think "it's only a
costume". Little do they know ;).
Sunday, October 11, 2015
BE PREPARED!!!
Be Prepared
This coming week there will be an earthquake.
It won't be a real earthquake but a drill/
On Thursday October 15th an emergency
prepardness drill will be conducted over the
entire state of California.
Many agencies will be perticipating. This
includes local, county, state, and even
federal government agencies.
The purpous of the state wide drill is to
raise awareness and preperation for the real
thing.
There are many ways you can prepare for
emergencies. The most important thing to do
to prepare is to have a plan of action.
By planning ahead, you will be mentaly as
well as physicly able to deal with the
emergency.
Your plan sould include an out of state
contact and central meeting location for all
members of your family.
even though you have an out of state contact,
you may not be able to reach them by cell
phone.
Most people don't know this, but in a major
dissaster or emergency, emergency services
literly takes over the cell towers for
communications. In those situations only 911
and emergency communications are aloud to go
through.
Alternatives to cell phone communications are
amature radio. Also FRS radios are good for
short distance communications.
As part of your plan and possible survival, I
reccomend getting involved with organisations
like CERT (Community Emmergency Response
Team). They provide training free as well as
provide a suport group for when a dissaster
hits.
If you don't take anything else from this,
take it as to be prepared for a dissaster.
You never know when or where it might happen.
But, it WILL happen so be ready for it.
This coming week there will be an earthquake.
It won't be a real earthquake but a drill/
On Thursday October 15th an emergency
prepardness drill will be conducted over the
entire state of California.
Many agencies will be perticipating. This
includes local, county, state, and even
federal government agencies.
The purpous of the state wide drill is to
raise awareness and preperation for the real
thing.
There are many ways you can prepare for
emergencies. The most important thing to do
to prepare is to have a plan of action.
By planning ahead, you will be mentaly as
well as physicly able to deal with the
emergency.
Your plan sould include an out of state
contact and central meeting location for all
members of your family.
even though you have an out of state contact,
you may not be able to reach them by cell
phone.
Most people don't know this, but in a major
dissaster or emergency, emergency services
literly takes over the cell towers for
communications. In those situations only 911
and emergency communications are aloud to go
through.
Alternatives to cell phone communications are
amature radio. Also FRS radios are good for
short distance communications.
As part of your plan and possible survival, I
reccomend getting involved with organisations
like CERT (Community Emmergency Response
Team). They provide training free as well as
provide a suport group for when a dissaster
hits.
If you don't take anything else from this,
take it as to be prepared for a dissaster.
You never know when or where it might happen.
But, it WILL happen so be ready for it.
Thursday, September 10, 2015
Amateurs are pros
Amateur's are the pros
By: C.J. Ellington
"The departments that we have interfaced with have had positive feedback. We continue to have make our presents known to the hospital." Says Keith Thomas, Chief Radio Officer of the Jerry L Pettis VA amateur raido club.
Tucked away out of sight on the 2nd floor of the VA Hospital, sits a 20 foot by 10 foot room. That room houses the VA's emergency communications equipment.
Recently, emergency communications was put to the test when the power went out at the hospital in June. The radio club responded with 7 members that day, to provide important communications between departments.
The Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital Amateur Radio club was officialy formed in Febuary of 2011. Prior to 2011, the hospital radio room was staffed by employees. Currently most club members are VA volunteer's.
As of current membership, the club who holds an amateur radio call sign of W6VAH, has approximently 20 members. When the club was formed, they started out with 5 members.
The W6VAH club runs a net on HF (High Frequency) on 14.255 megahertz. The purpous of the net is to make contact with both vets and non vets.
On the net, club members talk to operaters from around the country and occationaly the world. The average number of contacts veries by atmospheric conditions.
Curently, the club participates in 2 yearly drill's, including the great american shake out in October. These drills help prepare the club for the real thing.
The W6VAH club at the Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital is one of a few VA's involved with amateur radio and emergency communicaitons. They regurly make contact with N5VA, the VA hospital in New Mexico.
Any licensed amateur radio operater is welcome to check in with them and to visit the radio room. They would love to have you visit and show you around.
By: C.J. Ellington
"The departments that we have interfaced with have had positive feedback. We continue to have make our presents known to the hospital." Says Keith Thomas, Chief Radio Officer of the Jerry L Pettis VA amateur raido club.
Tucked away out of sight on the 2nd floor of the VA Hospital, sits a 20 foot by 10 foot room. That room houses the VA's emergency communications equipment.
Recently, emergency communications was put to the test when the power went out at the hospital in June. The radio club responded with 7 members that day, to provide important communications between departments.
The Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital Amateur Radio club was officialy formed in Febuary of 2011. Prior to 2011, the hospital radio room was staffed by employees. Currently most club members are VA volunteer's.
As of current membership, the club who holds an amateur radio call sign of W6VAH, has approximently 20 members. When the club was formed, they started out with 5 members.
The W6VAH club runs a net on HF (High Frequency) on 14.255 megahertz. The purpous of the net is to make contact with both vets and non vets.
On the net, club members talk to operaters from around the country and occationaly the world. The average number of contacts veries by atmospheric conditions.
Curently, the club participates in 2 yearly drill's, including the great american shake out in October. These drills help prepare the club for the real thing.
The W6VAH club at the Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital is one of a few VA's involved with amateur radio and emergency communicaitons. They regurly make contact with N5VA, the VA hospital in New Mexico.
Any licensed amateur radio operater is welcome to check in with them and to visit the radio room. They would love to have you visit and show you around.
Constatution vs Religion
Constatution VS Religious freedom
Everyone has heard of Kim Davis the Kentuky county clerk who refused gay marriage licenses. Dispite the US Supreme court ruling that banning of gay marriage is unconstatutional.
A week ago, Davis was ordered to jail for not following the courts order. She spent a week in jail for contempt.
When Davis was released there was a huge crowd of suporters waiting for her. It amazes me how people can suport someone who broke the law.
Heavy hitters in politics are even getting involved to suport her. GOP Presidential candidate Mike Huckabee is one of those.
Her Deputy clerk refuses to break the law even if he is breaking her orders. The law is the law.
Law of the land superseeds religious beliefs or biases. It's one thing to have certain beliefs. However, If your your beliefs effect the job you do then you souldn't be doing that job.
Kim Davis is an elected official. If she refuses to do her job because of her beliefs she needs to resign.
Our founding fathers believed in seperation of church and state. This is one of those cases where religion interfearing with government ruleing is wrong.
I am sure as we speak, the county board of supervisors are discussing her fate.
Everyone has heard of Kim Davis the Kentuky county clerk who refused gay marriage licenses. Dispite the US Supreme court ruling that banning of gay marriage is unconstatutional.
A week ago, Davis was ordered to jail for not following the courts order. She spent a week in jail for contempt.
When Davis was released there was a huge crowd of suporters waiting for her. It amazes me how people can suport someone who broke the law.
Heavy hitters in politics are even getting involved to suport her. GOP Presidential candidate Mike Huckabee is one of those.
Her Deputy clerk refuses to break the law even if he is breaking her orders. The law is the law.
Law of the land superseeds religious beliefs or biases. It's one thing to have certain beliefs. However, If your your beliefs effect the job you do then you souldn't be doing that job.
Kim Davis is an elected official. If she refuses to do her job because of her beliefs she needs to resign.
Our founding fathers believed in seperation of church and state. This is one of those cases where religion interfearing with government ruleing is wrong.
I am sure as we speak, the county board of supervisors are discussing her fate.
Monday, July 6, 2015
New Chief in town
New VA Volunteer services chief
By: C.J. Ellington
"If you can't find a way, make a way" That is the moto that Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital Volunteer Chief Larry Moore lives by.
It has been three weeks sense Larry Moore filled the position of Chief of voluntary services. The job he filled was vacant sense October of 2014.
Larry came to the job from another Veterans Hospital in Atlanta Georga. There, he spent two years before comeing to the VA Hospital in Loma Linda.
Mr Moore says expierience as a VA volunteer in collage, prepared him for the new job. At 30 years old, Moore who is not a veteran, is commited to serving those in the armed forces.
Moore took the job in Loma Linda as a new opertunity to challenge himself. He vows to challenge himself and improve volunteer services so that volunteers are able to give 100% to the veterans.
One of Mr Moores goals is to gain more people to help with veterans needs and to promote teamwork among volunteers.
He is looking forward to staying in southern California to rais a family.
By: C.J. Ellington
"If you can't find a way, make a way" That is the moto that Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital Volunteer Chief Larry Moore lives by.
It has been three weeks sense Larry Moore filled the position of Chief of voluntary services. The job he filled was vacant sense October of 2014.
Larry came to the job from another Veterans Hospital in Atlanta Georga. There, he spent two years before comeing to the VA Hospital in Loma Linda.
Mr Moore says expierience as a VA volunteer in collage, prepared him for the new job. At 30 years old, Moore who is not a veteran, is commited to serving those in the armed forces.
Moore took the job in Loma Linda as a new opertunity to challenge himself. He vows to challenge himself and improve volunteer services so that volunteers are able to give 100% to the veterans.
One of Mr Moores goals is to gain more people to help with veterans needs and to promote teamwork among volunteers.
He is looking forward to staying in southern California to rais a family.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Loma Linda VA Volunteer lunchen
VA Volunteer lunch
June 30th 2015 marked the apreciation for those who
volunteer at the Jerry L Pettis VA Memorial Hospital.
The lunchen that lasted two hours, was held at the Double
Tree Hotel in Onterio California.
Volunteers were given awards for hours worked. They were
awarded pins and certificats for 100 to 10,000 hours
worked.
One volunteer James Miles recieved a trophy for working
over 32,000 hours.
There were also door prizes given out as well as speaches
from Larry Moore, the new directer of volunteer services
at Loma Linda VA.
Loma Linda VA Hospital has aproximently 500 volunteers in
verius capacities. Volunteers do anything from pushing
patients in wheelchairs, to giving directions and working
in the veterans cemitary.
June 30th 2015 marked the apreciation for those who
volunteer at the Jerry L Pettis VA Memorial Hospital.
The lunchen that lasted two hours, was held at the Double
Tree Hotel in Onterio California.
Volunteers were given awards for hours worked. They were
awarded pins and certificats for 100 to 10,000 hours
worked.
One volunteer James Miles recieved a trophy for working
over 32,000 hours.
There were also door prizes given out as well as speaches
from Larry Moore, the new directer of volunteer services
at Loma Linda VA.
Loma Linda VA Hospital has aproximently 500 volunteers in
verius capacities. Volunteers do anything from pushing
patients in wheelchairs, to giving directions and working
in the veterans cemitary.
Sunday, June 28, 2015
Hamming it up Fieldday
Hamming it up Fieldday
The last weekend of Jue the Amaeur radio community gets
together for 24 hours. Durring the course of that time
radio operaters make contacts all over the world.
This weekend June 27th and 28th marked another year of
comeraudery among HAMs. They call this weekend Fieldday.
Thousands apon thousands of sponcered clubs perticipate
as well as individuals.
This event is sponcered by and monitered by the ARRL
(Amatuer Radio Relay League) and the goal is to get as
many HAM radio contacts as possible. Preferbly using
emergency power in a park or other public space to
promote the hobby.
Rules are aplied to insure accuracy of the contacts. For
instance, every contact has to give their grid square and
ARRL section they are in.
All of this is to promote the hobby of amatuer radio as
well as test skills and equipment in preperation for
emergency operation.
HAMs play an important role in a disaster situation such
as Huricane Katrina and the recent floods in Texas. Some
major disaster organisations use rafdio for
communications. Those include the Red Cross and Salvation
Army.
Modes of operation and bands for fieldday included FM
mode as well as AM.
Demonstrations were given by many groups oer the weekend.
You no longer have to know morse code to be licensed.
The last weekend of Jue the Amaeur radio community gets
together for 24 hours. Durring the course of that time
radio operaters make contacts all over the world.
This weekend June 27th and 28th marked another year of
comeraudery among HAMs. They call this weekend Fieldday.
Thousands apon thousands of sponcered clubs perticipate
as well as individuals.
This event is sponcered by and monitered by the ARRL
(Amatuer Radio Relay League) and the goal is to get as
many HAM radio contacts as possible. Preferbly using
emergency power in a park or other public space to
promote the hobby.
Rules are aplied to insure accuracy of the contacts. For
instance, every contact has to give their grid square and
ARRL section they are in.
All of this is to promote the hobby of amatuer radio as
well as test skills and equipment in preperation for
emergency operation.
HAMs play an important role in a disaster situation such
as Huricane Katrina and the recent floods in Texas. Some
major disaster organisations use rafdio for
communications. Those include the Red Cross and Salvation
Army.
Modes of operation and bands for fieldday included FM
mode as well as AM.
Demonstrations were given by many groups oer the weekend.
You no longer have to know morse code to be licensed.
Sunday, June 14, 2015
Pride at LA Pride
LA Pride with pride
This weekend 6/12/2015, is pride weekend for the LGBT
community. Nearly every major city holding a pride event.
Los Angeles is certainly no exception. They hold their
pride in the city of West Hollywood every June.
If you were anywhere near Santa Monica blvd and San
Vicente Blvd you would have noticed large crouds unusualy
dressed and lots of rainbow flags everywhere.
Alot of guys with their shirts off and some in thongs.
Alot of rainbow colored hair.
Booths included Johnson and Johnson that was giving away
skin care product samples. There was also a Trans Station
sponcered by the amazon show "Trans Parent". They were
giving away tshirts and provided a comfortable place to
hang out.
Some of the booths even had games and wheels giving away
prizes. I won 2 tickets to Kotts Berry Farm, a local
theme park near DisneyLand.
At the end of the day they provded live entertnainment.
On the main stage at 6:30 pm was Willson Philips.
The weekend long event ends sunday June 14 and has
something for everyone.
This weekend 6/12/2015, is pride weekend for the LGBT
community. Nearly every major city holding a pride event.
Los Angeles is certainly no exception. They hold their
pride in the city of West Hollywood every June.
If you were anywhere near Santa Monica blvd and San
Vicente Blvd you would have noticed large crouds unusualy
dressed and lots of rainbow flags everywhere.
Alot of guys with their shirts off and some in thongs.
Alot of rainbow colored hair.
Booths included Johnson and Johnson that was giving away
skin care product samples. There was also a Trans Station
sponcered by the amazon show "Trans Parent". They were
giving away tshirts and provided a comfortable place to
hang out.
Some of the booths even had games and wheels giving away
prizes. I won 2 tickets to Kotts Berry Farm, a local
theme park near DisneyLand.
At the end of the day they provded live entertnainment.
On the main stage at 6:30 pm was Willson Philips.
The weekend long event ends sunday June 14 and has
something for everyone.
Friday, June 12, 2015
Pedestrion safe city?
Pedestrion safe?
Is your city pedestrion safe? Ever wondered how hard it
would be to get around your city on foot?
Imagine walking along on the sidewalk just for it to
sudenly end, or to have no crosswalk. If you live in Loma
Linda California thats what you expierience and then
some.
Then imagine being someone who is visualy impaired or in
a wheelchair having to deal with the sparce sidewalks as
well as un maintained sidewalks.
One such case is a fire hydrent in the middle of where a
sidewalk souuld be but isnt.
Loma Linda is a medical city with two major hospitals.
However, it is a mile walk or more between the hospitals
and the residential nieghborhoods.
Public transit is another issue. Although it is better
then some places it still needs work. OmniTrans runs to
and from the two hospitals. However, bus stops in town
are few and far between.
Again, residents get the short end of the deal by not
having nearby bus stops. If you live in a nieghborhood
the chances are good of having to wal a treaturous half
mile to a mile.
Why does the city not fix the issues and rather incure
the liability is unknown. But the fact that the liability
is there is of great concern not just to those who walk
but those those with cars as well.
Is your city pedestrion safe? Ever wondered how hard it
would be to get around your city on foot?
Imagine walking along on the sidewalk just for it to
sudenly end, or to have no crosswalk. If you live in Loma
Linda California thats what you expierience and then
some.
Then imagine being someone who is visualy impaired or in
a wheelchair having to deal with the sparce sidewalks as
well as un maintained sidewalks.
One such case is a fire hydrent in the middle of where a
sidewalk souuld be but isnt.
Loma Linda is a medical city with two major hospitals.
However, it is a mile walk or more between the hospitals
and the residential nieghborhoods.
Public transit is another issue. Although it is better
then some places it still needs work. OmniTrans runs to
and from the two hospitals. However, bus stops in town
are few and far between.
Again, residents get the short end of the deal by not
having nearby bus stops. If you live in a nieghborhood
the chances are good of having to wal a treaturous half
mile to a mile.
Why does the city not fix the issues and rather incure
the liability is unknown. But the fact that the liability
is there is of great concern not just to those who walk
but those those with cars as well.
Saturday, May 2, 2015
Apartment fire
On 5/1/2015 at aproximently 6pm, fire broke out at the Loma Linda Commons Apartments in Loma Linda. The fire started in apartment 317.
Five fire trucks from the Loma Linda Fire Department responded including a ladder truck.
The fire was knocked down in short order. Aproximently 20 apartments are effected. Most with water damage. Water damage is vissable on all 3 floors of the three story building.
Clean up crews were sent out over the weekend to fix any damage the water and fire caused. No one was injured in the small blaze.
The apartment complex has no emergency plan of action for such cases. It is reccomended by the fire department to only get out if there is imediate danger.
Five fire trucks from the Loma Linda Fire Department responded including a ladder truck.
The fire was knocked down in short order. Aproximently 20 apartments are effected. Most with water damage. Water damage is vissable on all 3 floors of the three story building.
Clean up crews were sent out over the weekend to fix any damage the water and fire caused. No one was injured in the small blaze.
The apartment complex has no emergency plan of action for such cases. It is reccomended by the fire department to only get out if there is imediate danger.
Saturday, April 4, 2015
Bathroom injustice
Bathroom injustice
Hollywood has everything. It has movie stars. Ithas
tourest shops. It has over priced boutiques and wig
shops.
What Hollywood DOESN'T HAVE are bathrooms in most
businesses.
We have all heard of the fight for bathroom use by the
transgender community. First, there has to be a bathroom
to use before we can be thrown out of one.
Searching for a bathroom on Hollywood Blvd no matter how
many businesses are there, the only restroom near by is
at the mall at Hollywood and highland.
Last I checked, bladder releif is NOT a privlage NOR is
it a right. It is actualy a human neccessity.
In addition to the lack of restrooms in Hollywood, anyone
that takes public transit knows there are also long rides
and no bathroom.
This is an issue that needs to be addressed and fixed
everywhere. Not just california.
Hollywood has everything. It has movie stars. Ithas
tourest shops. It has over priced boutiques and wig
shops.
What Hollywood DOESN'T HAVE are bathrooms in most
businesses.
We have all heard of the fight for bathroom use by the
transgender community. First, there has to be a bathroom
to use before we can be thrown out of one.
Searching for a bathroom on Hollywood Blvd no matter how
many businesses are there, the only restroom near by is
at the mall at Hollywood and highland.
Last I checked, bladder releif is NOT a privlage NOR is
it a right. It is actualy a human neccessity.
In addition to the lack of restrooms in Hollywood, anyone
that takes public transit knows there are also long rides
and no bathroom.
This is an issue that needs to be addressed and fixed
everywhere. Not just california.
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Blind statue
Braille statue
Ever been to the Braille Institute in LA? If not, it is
quite a place to visit.
There is a statue in the courtyard area. It is unlike any
other ever seen.
A man on a bench reading a braille book to a couple of
kids.
You walk up to it and sudenly a voice speaks to you
discribing the book and the brief history of the Braille
Institute.
The statue dipicts the founder J Robert Atkinson.
Atkinson is the founder of the Braille Institute over a
centery ago.
In 1912 he suffered blindness from a gun shot wound. His
first braille transcribed book was the bible.
J Robert Atkinson passed away in 1964, leaving a large
legacy of helping the visualy impaired to read and
accomplish other things.
Ever been to the Braille Institute in LA? If not, it is
quite a place to visit.
There is a statue in the courtyard area. It is unlike any
other ever seen.
A man on a bench reading a braille book to a couple of
kids.
You walk up to it and sudenly a voice speaks to you
discribing the book and the brief history of the Braille
Institute.
The statue dipicts the founder J Robert Atkinson.
Atkinson is the founder of the Braille Institute over a
centery ago.
In 1912 he suffered blindness from a gun shot wound. His
first braille transcribed book was the bible.
J Robert Atkinson passed away in 1964, leaving a large
legacy of helping the visualy impaired to read and
accomplish other things.
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Blind play
If you have ever spent any time with someone who has low to no vission, you will find them quite remarkable. People in the blindness community are capable of doing alot of interesting things.
Today 3/19/205 was certainly no exception. A group of remarcable actors and actresses.
The Braile Instatute of Los Angeles, put on a play through their theater department.
The play featured the theater departments 8 current studants. Each studant got to do a part with someone else as well as a monolog.
The highlight of the performance came when two partialy sighted women did a comady skit about tow old ladies having a conversation on a park bench.
All in all, the play lasted about half an hour and aproximently 20 people attended.
According to the programs instructer, they have plans for bigger performances.
Today 3/19/205 was certainly no exception. A group of remarcable actors and actresses.
The Braile Instatute of Los Angeles, put on a play through their theater department.
The play featured the theater departments 8 current studants. Each studant got to do a part with someone else as well as a monolog.
The highlight of the performance came when two partialy sighted women did a comady skit about tow old ladies having a conversation on a park bench.
All in all, the play lasted about half an hour and aproximently 20 people attended.
According to the programs instructer, they have plans for bigger performances.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
A Mile in her boots
A mile in her boot
The womens program for the Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital is
featuring a display to recognise women who served.
There are two displays. One in the main lobby and one on
the 2nd floor next to the cafateeria.
Last year was the first year they did this display and it
featured fifteen women and pairs of boots. This year they
have fourty five pairs of boots.
Each boot is decorated by the women who served and
reflects their service in the service. Next to each boot
reads a little story told by the women vets.
According to the VA's Women Veterans Program manager Lisa
Roybal, she got the idea from a similer program that the
Volunteers of America puts on.
The "she wore these" campain was featured on local KVCR
TV in October of 2014. There is also a video on youtube
featuring Mrs Roybal and the women who were involved with
the boots display.
The womens program for the Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital is
featuring a display to recognise women who served.
There are two displays. One in the main lobby and one on
the 2nd floor next to the cafateeria.
Last year was the first year they did this display and it
featured fifteen women and pairs of boots. This year they
have fourty five pairs of boots.
Each boot is decorated by the women who served and
reflects their service in the service. Next to each boot
reads a little story told by the women vets.
According to the VA's Women Veterans Program manager Lisa
Roybal, she got the idea from a similer program that the
Volunteers of America puts on.
The "she wore these" campain was featured on local KVCR
TV in October of 2014. There is also a video on youtube
featuring Mrs Roybal and the women who were involved with
the boots display.
Friday, March 6, 2015
To emlail or not to email
As we have all heard by now, Hillary Clinton used her private email for state department business. According to the Whitehouse, and her team, she has turned over all emails pertaining to her possison as Secratery of State. You would think certain people would be satisfied with that. NOPE, the republicans won't let it go. Hillary is ssumed to be running for president in 2016. Like when her husband was president, the republicans are going to nit pck at everything she does and has done. Question, sould we waiste another year and taxpayer money investigateing a clinton for a minor wrong doing or minor oversite? According to federal policy, all federal work related emails are considered public record and are to be logged as such. However, it is certainly understandable someone working in the state department not wanting their emails public. I am sure there were times when she discused private/confidential matters that she didnt want people to see. Perticurly those with the CIA. Even a governmen employee has the right to certain privacy when it comes to emailing.
Friday, February 27, 2015
Internet toll lanes
On Thursday Febuary 26th 2015, the FCC (Federal
communications commission), made a dession to keep the
internet free and neutral.
Up for debate was a controvercial law. The contovercial
law would have made the internet a two tear system.
On one side of things, the law would have made it like
the cable companies. A pay more get more system. The more
you paid the more web sites you would be able to access.
Speed of the internet was also included in this law. The
more money you paid the faster your service. Therefore,
leaving the poor at yet another dissadvantage.
The new law up for vote was called "paid prioritasation".
Both democrats and republican lawmakers were vocaly
against the idea.
The FCC voted to have net neutrality instead. The FCC is
planning to enforce net neutrality by complaints recieved
and investigating of those complaints.
communications commission), made a dession to keep the
internet free and neutral.
Up for debate was a controvercial law. The contovercial
law would have made the internet a two tear system.
On one side of things, the law would have made it like
the cable companies. A pay more get more system. The more
you paid the more web sites you would be able to access.
Speed of the internet was also included in this law. The
more money you paid the faster your service. Therefore,
leaving the poor at yet another dissadvantage.
The new law up for vote was called "paid prioritasation".
Both democrats and republican lawmakers were vocaly
against the idea.
The FCC voted to have net neutrality instead. The FCC is
planning to enforce net neutrality by complaints recieved
and investigating of those complaints.
Friday, February 20, 2015
Lost but found
You walk by a small office with an open door. The sign next to it reads "Patient Effects/Lost and Found". Sitting at the desk is a gentalman by the name of Jerry Jones.
Mr Jones is the Patient Effects coordenater for the VA Hospital in Loma Linda. He is the go to guy when you have lost an item while at the VA.
The most common items lost or found are cell phones and wallets. With a bit of detective work, Items can be returned quickly to the owner according to Mr Jones.
Typicly for most wallets have an ID and or a credit card with the owners name. For cell phones, he finds the contacts list and calls one of the contacts on the phone. Mr Jones advises the person on the other end that their friend lost their phone.
Most items are held for 60 days. After 60 days, some items such as eye glasses get sent to the eye clinic for reuse. Other items may be thrown away or auctioned off. All procceeds from the auction are sent back to the vets.
So why would someone want to do this liine of work? According to Mr Jones, he does it to help the vets. His father wa a korean war vet. Mr Jones says he sees alot of his father in the vets that he helps serve.
Next time your at the Loma Linda VA, give Jerry a wave as you walk past. He would apreciate it.
Mr Jones is the Patient Effects coordenater for the VA Hospital in Loma Linda. He is the go to guy when you have lost an item while at the VA.
The most common items lost or found are cell phones and wallets. With a bit of detective work, Items can be returned quickly to the owner according to Mr Jones.
Typicly for most wallets have an ID and or a credit card with the owners name. For cell phones, he finds the contacts list and calls one of the contacts on the phone. Mr Jones advises the person on the other end that their friend lost their phone.
Most items are held for 60 days. After 60 days, some items such as eye glasses get sent to the eye clinic for reuse. Other items may be thrown away or auctioned off. All procceeds from the auction are sent back to the vets.
So why would someone want to do this liine of work? According to Mr Jones, he does it to help the vets. His father wa a korean war vet. Mr Jones says he sees alot of his father in the vets that he helps serve.
Next time your at the Loma Linda VA, give Jerry a wave as you walk past. He would apreciate it.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Sacraficing for those who sacraficed
There are those who sacrafice for there country and then there are those that sacrafice for those who serve. I am one who sacrafices every day for those who gave themselves to our country in the form of millitary service. This is my story. I volunteer at the local VA hospital. I start my day by makeing a one and a half mime walk to the hospital. Primarly three fourths of the way is up hill. What makes matters worse, is my health. Because of my bad lungs, I am caughing most of the thirty minate trip due to the smog released by cars passing by. Then there is my bad knees and an occational flair up from an old ankle injury. When I arrive at the hospital, I typicly get one or two employees and or fellow volunteers who tell me "i saw you walking". I have to think to myself "then why didnt you stop." Once at work I typicly walk another two to three miles inside the hospital. ahhh then the trek home. At least thats not so bad. Then again after walking to get there then walking four hours, the walk home can also take its toll on my body. By the time I get home I litterly can't walk any further. The VA has transportaiton programs for both vets and employees. However, volunteers are not eligable to take advantage of them. I always help others yet no one is there to help me when I need it. I sacrafice my health so I can help the veterans. And I do it on my own with no help from others. I am not looking for sympathy, just to share my story with the world.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Deal or no deal
Sould we negociate with terrorists? As ISIS kills yet another American hostage, people are wondering if our policy on not negotiating is worth it or not. Think of this. Other countries do give money for hostages. Now, does it realy make sense? I mean the terrorists are probably laughing at the ones that pay out. It encourages them to do more hostage taking. The money spent on the release of the hostages tend to go to fund the terrorists activities. Therefore they enjoy getting money off other countries. The US however, rarely negotiates. Yet, the terrorists still take Americans hostage in hopes we will negotiate. So is it realy worth negotiating? President Obama is looking into the issue and will post his or his commissions findings soon. It is an issue that is most critical if we are to discourage ISIS from taking hostages.
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Transmedia
Bruce Jenner is transissioning. Yes from male to female.
He is becomeing she. We have all heard that. It's all
over the internet. Yahoo tends to run a story a day about
the transision of the famous olympian. Up untill now, the
trans community realy has not been discussing it. Every
day in the world, there are trans women and trans men
going through verious phases of transission but yet you
don't see their names in the news or hear their story.
Every day they struggle with life as they transission to
their rightful gender. I can understand the media posting
one or two stories but not one every day for someone
famous. But because he/she is famous, the media gives the
attention making it a big deal to the world when in
reality it is another trans person in transission. So is it overkill
on the subject? You deside.
He is becomeing she. We have all heard that. It's all
over the internet. Yahoo tends to run a story a day about
the transision of the famous olympian. Up untill now, the
trans community realy has not been discussing it. Every
day in the world, there are trans women and trans men
going through verious phases of transission but yet you
don't see their names in the news or hear their story.
Every day they struggle with life as they transission to
their rightful gender. I can understand the media posting
one or two stories but not one every day for someone
famous. But because he/she is famous, the media gives the
attention making it a big deal to the world when in
reality it is another trans person in transission. So is it overkill
on the subject? You deside.
Friday, February 6, 2015
Is your heart fair?
Is your heart fair? If you were at the VA Hospital in Loma Linda, then you would have found out. Today the Veterans Administration celebreted "go red for women" campain. The health fair for vets and employees focused on heart health. Events included a 2 mile walk around hospital grounds tai chi, and other entertainment. Prizes were also given away to those who participated. Healthy food such as apple slices, and fruet were given away. There were also free heart related health screenings for such things as diabitis and heart attack risk. The event was from 10am till 2pm and was considered a success by event organisers.
Monday, February 2, 2015
It's Groundhogs day AGAIN
Today marks the day where we suposidly find out
if we will have a longer winter. According to Punxatony
Phil, the countrys most famous groundhog, we will have
six more weeks of winter. But, how did this anual
tradition come about? Groundhogs day actualy begain in
Pensilvania as a part of German culture in the 17 and
1800s. As for the date chosen Febuary 2nd, marks the
change of the celtic calender. According to the tration,
if Punxatony Phill comes out on a cloudy day, then spring
will come early. If he sees his shadow, there will be six
more weeks of winter. Sorry to those on the East coast. so
you might as well enjoy the rest of the winter and party like
the Germans.
if we will have a longer winter. According to Punxatony
Phil, the countrys most famous groundhog, we will have
six more weeks of winter. But, how did this anual
tradition come about? Groundhogs day actualy begain in
Pensilvania as a part of German culture in the 17 and
1800s. As for the date chosen Febuary 2nd, marks the
change of the celtic calender. According to the tration,
if Punxatony Phill comes out on a cloudy day, then spring
will come early. If he sees his shadow, there will be six
more weeks of winter. Sorry to those on the East coast. so
you might as well enjoy the rest of the winter and party like
the Germans.
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
VA expantion too fast?
If you have been to the Jerry L Pettis VA Hospital in Lomalinda lately, you will have noticed alot of construction. They just finished construction on the new "Valor" building for Behavioral health. That building officialy opened in December. Other projects include a staff elevater for patiant gurneys. Also a new outpatiant pharmacy is also in the works. Meanwhile, more and more parking spaces are being taken away from an already tapped out parking lot. One of the biggest complaints patiants have is parking or the lack there of. It currently takes patiants approximently 30 to 45 minates to find a place to park on site. The VA does offer parking lot shuttle service. So far the VA is expanding buildings but not parking spaces to accomodate the extra buildings. Another complaint heard by the vets is the lack of wheelchairs when needed. Often times all the wheelchairs are being used by 10am. There are good side to expanding. The VA is attempting to accomadate the growing number of veterans ageing from vietnam, and those comeing back from Iraq and Afganastan. This week the Veterans Administration chief is in town to inspect the hospital as well as take veterans suggestions in a town hall meeting.
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