Hi, CV!

Monday morning was Howdy Day at Rosemont signaling the start of another school year. We stood near the Korean-American PTA, Prom Plus, the Teen Scene After-school Program (I think) and Camp Fireworks. From the looks on everyone’s faces, this year is going to rock!

If you don’t know about Prom Plus, it is a safe, fun and sober after prom party for seniors and their guests. Stop by their booth at Orange Fest. This is a great organization and, similar to National Charity League, parents and children can volunteer together! You’ll find Prom Plus next to the Fire House Youth Center at the Orange Fest Expo.

We know the transition to middle school is the most difficult, and to that end, Didi Hirsch AOD (Annie Ortega and her staff) have a great presentation on navigating this change. They are willing and ready to speak with you and your friends/group. Ask her about it at Orange Fest.

Another indicator that this year is going in the best direction comes from GUSD’s Healthy Start Office. Recently appointed as coordinator of Healthy Start, Student Support Services, is CV Alliance’s own board member Ilin Magran, EdD. Dr. Magran applied to LACOE (L.A. County Office of Education) and received school supplies for 200 low-income students. And she’s supplying 200 backpacks as well! If you or someone you know needs assistance, keep the Healthy Start Office in mind. You’ll see them at Orange Fest. They’re the ones who supply free and anonymous drug-test kits.

CV Alliance will have a booth at Orange Fest. Stop by please and tell us what’s on your mind.

I admit being on pins and needles waiting to hear whether or not we will be picked up for another five years (our grant renewal). Now I know how TV people feel. You might have a good product, but it’s out of your hands. I must thank our brave founders and this marvelous community that help prevent underage substance use and abuse.

Orange Fest is Saturday, Aug. 15 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. for adults at CV Park, 3901 Dunsmore Ave., county building. Rx Take Back, too. See you there!

  Suzy JACOBS