Resolution Calls for New Airport Standards
Assembly member Ted W. Lieu (D-Torrance) introduced a resolution to end toxic emission and excessive noise problems at Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO). Assembly Joint Resolution 41 is a formal message, not actual legislation, which calls for federal agencies to work together and evaluate community concerns about SMO. Lieu said the dangerous health risks caused by jet aircrafts can no longer be tolerated and a “strong message” needs to be sent.
Supporters aim to pass legislation mandating a standard minimum distance from jet aircraft operations and residences. A recent UCLA study found airport operations contribute to elevated levels of health dangers (black carbon and ultra-fine particles) in surrounding areas. The airport runway is situated less than 300 feet from densely populated residential neighborhoods.
SMMUSD Asst. Superintendant Leaves for Manhattan Beach
Michael Matthews, assistant superintendent for human resources, was appointed the new Superintendant for Manhattan Beach Unified School District. Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District announced Tuesday the move will be effective July 1. Tim Cuneo, the Superintendent of SMMUSD said, “Manhattan Beach is gaining a strong leader who is dedicated to the success of all students.”
Matthews has served as Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources since 2004. He also served as Interim Superintendent for in 2006 while the Board of Education searched for a new Superintendent. Prior to joining the district office team, Matthews served as the first principal of the new Malibu High School.
SMC Student Newspaper Wins 14 Awards
Santa Monica College student newspaper, the Cosair, won 14 Awards at the 2010 state convention of the Journalism Association of Community Colleges held in Los Angeles. The publication is one of 13 community colleges statewide to receive the coveted General Excellence award.
Student participated in many on-site writing and photography contests, with mail-in contests announced at the convention. The publication received two first-place awards for broadcast news writing for Ingrid Rosales, the calendar editor, and for feature photo to Carlos Gutierrez, a staff photographer. Rebecca Slawter, news editor, earned second place in the news-writing contest, while Alfredo Luna, staff photographer, grabbed second place in the news photo contest.
