Category Archives: Walnut

Courts Deny Walnut’s Filing Against Mt. SAC

Staff Reports

Walnut – On April 1, the Los Angeles County Superior Court issued a denial of the City of Walnut’s application for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction against Mt. San Antonio Community College, and their construction of a forthcoming parking structure.

According to Jill Dolan, MPA, Director of Public Affairs for Mt. SAC, not only was the temporary restraining order denied, but the Court also ruled that the City has not shown that it is likely to prevail on the merits concerning the zoning issues, and, as such, did not set a hearing for a preliminary injunction on the matter.

“The Court ruled that ‘the City acknowledges that its involvement with the project is limited to review of improvements to the sidewalks, curb cuts, and other street improvements,’” said Dolan.

As recently as the Walnut City Council meeting on Mar. 25, some residents of the Timberline neighborhood urged City officials to move toward litigation against Mt. SAC, citing that the imminent parking structure would “increase traffic congestion, noise pollution, air pollution and ruin the backyard views of many of the nearby houses.”  These are the same issues that have come to the forefront of Council meetings for some time.

Representatives from Mt. SAC have said that during the planning stages of this project, they have worked with the City of Walnut.  Mt. SAC met with the City planning and engineering staffs, and in 2007 presented a plan for the structure to the college’s Board of Trustees.  The college also submitted environmental impact reports to the City, as required by the California Environmental Quality Act as early as 2002 – with updates in 2005, 2008 and 2012.  The California Division of the State Architect’s office made the final decision to approve the parking structure.

Despite working with City, Walnut’s City Attorney, Michael Montgomery, made it very clear to residents attending the Mar. 11 Council meeting, that the City would likely start litigation against Mt. SAC to halt the parking structure to appease the Timberline residents.  Montgomery said the college’s officials exhibited “absolutely arrogance” by refusing to read two separate letters about amending the location of the structure,

In a recent statement, Dr. William Scroggins, President and CEO of Mt. SAC, said, “The court ruling validates that Mt. San Antonio College’s parking structure project has been appropriately designed.  The structure is a necessity for the students and the broader community we serve.”

And with that, 1650 additional parking spaces – 13 years in the making – will ultimately benefit the students who spend copious amounts of time driving around the campus trying to find a spot to park.

The parking structure is expected to be completed by Jan. 2017.

Mt. SAC RN Program Ranks 10th Statewide

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College’s Nursing Program was recently ranked 10th among all California community college nursing programs in a survey of the best nursing schools in the Western United States by NurseJournal.org.
With an overall score of 85.63, Mt. SAC also ranked 13th among all western U. S. community college programs. The rankings were based on program quality, affordability, flexible class schedules, student satisfaction, and value.
A total of 442 universities, two-year colleges, and vocational nursing programs were ranked in the survey.
Mt. SAC’s Nursing Program serves 240 students, and its students achieved a 91% pass rate on the state board nursing exam in 2014. Associate degree and certificate programs are offered.
NurseJournal.org is a social community for nurses and healthcare professionals worldwide, which provides comprehensive educational resources.

Walnut Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Wed., Apr. 8 marked the Walnut City Council’s first meeting of the month; a regular session with a short agenda of items, including the recognition of OneLegacy (during Donor Awareness Month) and their life-saving work.

Mayor Pro Tem, Eric Ching, was absent from the meeting due to vacation.

Ambassador Daniel Luevanos accepted the award from the City on behalf of the OneLegacy organization, which aims to increase organ, tissue, marrow and blood donors throughout the nation.  Mayor Nancy Tragarz handed out the award to Luevanos, stating that OneLegacy was an important organization that has the potential to save hundreds of thousands of lives.

“More than 123,000 individuals nationwide, and more 21,000 in California, are currently on the national organ transplant waiting list,” Tragarz said. “Every 90 minutes, one person dies while waiting due the shortage of donated organs … whereas millions of lives are saved and healed by donors of organs, tissue, marrow and blood.  The spirit of giving and decision to donate are not restricted by age or medical conditions.”

The rest of the City Council members thanked Luevanos and also wished OneLegacy continued luck with the number of donors it gathers each year.

Following the presentation, the Council members approved the March 25 meeting minutes and approved the items on the consent calendar, including a resolution for the claims and demands in the amount of $469,720.68; the approval of plans and authorization to receive bids for Areas 1 and 2 for a resurfacing project; and a request to reject all bids currently received for a new city-wide telephone system, and authorization for staff to again proceed with formal bids for said system.

After Council announcements, the Walnut City Council officially adjourned with plans to meet on April 22, at 7 p.m., in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Walnut Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – The Walnut City Council met on Wed., Mar. 25, for a regular meeting, and once again the hot topic of the night pertained to ongoing discussions on how to handle the proposed Mount San Antonio College parking structure.

Council approved the minutes for the Feb. 24 City Council and Planning Commission meetings, and the Mar. 11 Council meeting.  All items on the consent calendar were approved, including the resolution of claims and demands in the amount of $968,349.82; a contractual agreement for auditing services; an alcoholic beverage license application for Circle K; and the final acceptance for the street light improvements on Grand Avenue and Arcadia Way.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz questioned part of the claims and demands resolution, saying that $310.20 was used to pay for City Attorney Michael Montgomery’s travel expenses to attend the Annual Spring Conference in Monterey, and was not a viable expense since he is considered an independent contractor. Tragarz said the only expenses that his contract allows for are, “extraordinary photocopies, parking fees at court houses, filing fees, messenger fees, jury fees, expert fees and a phone.”  Despite her claims, the item was still passed.

The Council then approved the only item on its successor agency consent calendar, for claims and demands in the amount of $1,250.

Council then started its only discussion item; the possibility of a Mt. SAC College Development Task Force.  This was an idea that came about during recent weeks of public outcry for stronger City involvement to monitor the community college’s parking structure and other future projects.

After a long discussion with public feedback, the City approved a motion to start a screening process in order to select ten Walnut residents to occupy the subcommittee.

During Public Comments, some residents attending from the Timberline neighborhood asked City officials to move toward litigation against the college, citing that the parking structure would increase traffic congestion, noise pollution, air pollution and ruin the backyard views of many of the nearby houses.

The Council then adjourned to closed session in order to discuss possible litigation against the Mt. SAC parking structure, with plans to meet again on Apr. 8, at 7 p.m. in the Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Mt. SAC Planetarium Showings

Photo Courtesy: Hillparnership.com

Photo Courtesy: Hillparnership.com

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College Randall Planetarium continues its full season of programs on the stars and planets with evening and matinee showings for adults and children throughout April.
Secret of the Cardboard Rocket, a special program for children, will be presented on Fri., Apr. 3, and Sat., Apr. 25, at 4:30 p.m. In this program, two children are on the adventure of a lifetime when they build a rocket out of cardboard and go on an exciting journey through the solar system using nothing but an astronomy book, their own imaginations, and the magic of the cardboard rocket.
Star Tales, a show on the stars, constellations, and planets, will run Fri., Apr. 3, at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Learn the stories behind the heavenly bodies and find out how to view them from your own backyard.
One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure, a special program for preschoolers, will be presented on Sat., Apr. 4, and Fri., Apr., at 4:30 p.m. In this program, Sesame Street’s Big Bird, Elmo and their friend from China, Hu Hu Zhu, take viewers on a journey of discovery to learn about the Big Dipper, the North Star, the sun, and the moon.
Deep Space: Binocular Astronomy, a program on using binoculars to explore the night sky, will be held on Sat., Apr. 4, at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Under the direction of an astronomer, examine star clusters, distant galaxies, and beautiful nebulas all with the use of binoculars. Binoculars will be provided.
Rockin’ Under the Stars, a special music video program designed by Mt. SAC students, will be shown Fri., Apr. 24, at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Experience astronomy with a beat as this program fuses astronomical phenomena with music.
Stars of the Pharaohs, a program on the stars and astronomy of ancient Egypt, will be shown Sat., Apr. 25, at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Travel to ancient Egypt and explore the stars and various astronomical phenomena during the time of the pharaohs. This program looks at how the ancient Egyptians used science to tell time, to formulate a workable calendar, and to align huge buildings.
Tickets are $6 for general admission, $4 for students, seniors, and children 6-13, and $1 for children 5 and under.
For tickets, call the Mt. SAC Performing Arts Box Office at (909) 468-4050. Tickets are also available online at https://tickets.mtsac.edu and at the door before each program.

 

Walnut Aquatic Park Update

By Claudine Stines

Walnut – In August of last year, the Walnut City Council approved the sale of the Three Oaks property, allowing the proceeds to be used for the development of an aquatic and recreational facility to be located in a more convenient public setting.

Last October, Standard Pacific of Orange County – the original developer for the Three Oaks property – filed a Writ of Mandate against the City, stating, in part, that since the original purpose for the property would not be realized, the project should revert back to the original developer.

Since the Writ was filed, there has been no action on the property.  Negotiations with the City are continuing, and it is speculated that a resolution may be reached by April.

In the meantime, the renovation of the Walnut High School swimming pool is scheduled to take place this June.  Part of the transformation will include extending the depth of the pool to include six lanes for competitive swimming.  In order to accomplish this without making the pool larger, they will have to use portions of the shallow end of the pool.

With the new configurations, the City will no longer have the convenience of using the pool for their summer aquatic program.  As of now, there is not an option for the 2015 summer aquatic program; however, the City will continue to look for a viable location.

More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Mt. SAC Hosts Kepler Scholarship Event

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College will host the 6th Annual Kepler Distinguished Lecture and Scholarship Dinner, featuring guest lecturer Dr. Eliot Young, on Sat., Apr. 11, at 5 p.m., beginning in the college’s dance studio, Building 2T, Room 121. All proceeds from the event will go to the Mt. SAC Kepler Astronomy Student Scholarship Program.

Young, a principal scientist with the Southwest Research Institute in Boulder, CO, will be the featured speaker for the event. Dr. Young is known for his work in astronomy with stellar occultations and development of maps of Pluto. His lecture for the evening, “Pluto in Our Sights,” will cover what scientists currently know about Pluto and other similar icy objects in the outer solar system, and what they expect to find out from the New Horizons spacecraft set to encounter the dwarf planet for the first time on July 14.   Mt. SAC awards the Kepler Scholarship each year to four astronomy students for their academic work and additional work within the Astronomy Program. Mt. SAC’s Astronomy Program affords its own planetarium and observatory with a 23-foot rotating astronomy dome that houses the college’s main 16-inch telescope. The observatory deck also includes six other 8-inch telescopes that are available for use by the students and public.

Tickets for the event – which includes dinner and the featured lecture – are $65 before March 27, and $75 after March 27. Tickets are available online at signup.mtsac.edu.
For more information, call Mt. SAC Astronomy Professor and Kepler Scholarship Coordinator, Julie Bray-Ali at (909) 274-4148.

Mt. SAC Begins Long Awaited Parking Structure

(Photo Courtesy: Jill Dolan) Students have taken to parking on curbs, islands, and anywhere they can find a spot while waiting for the new parking structure to manifest.

(Photo Courtesy: Jill Dolan)
Students have taken to parking on curbs, islands, and anywhere they can find a spot while waiting for the new parking structure to manifest.

Staff Reports

Walnut – After more than 13 years of planning, Mt. San Antonio College has begun work on a new $48.5 million parking structure that will provide an additional 1,650 parking spaces, and will help alleviate one of the top complaints of students at the Walnut campus – parking.

“The new parking structure will address Mt. SAC’s current needs for student parking while preparing the college for the future,” said college President, Bill Scroggins.

Located on the northwestern edge of the campus on the site of what is currently a parking lot, the new parking structure will provide badly needed student parking for a campus that served 54,000 students last year. Currently, there are a little over 7,200 parking spaces at the college, while the maximum number of students on campus at any given time is just over 9,500. According to enrollment projections, the structure should provide enough parking for students until at least 2025.

(Photo Courtesy: Jill Dolan)

(Photo Courtesy: Jill Dolan)

“Regardless of the time of day, it is very difficult to find parking on campus, but it’s especially difficult during the mornings,” said Chris Nguyen, Mt. SAC’s Student Body President. “This parking structure will make sure that every student will be able to find a parking space.”
At peak periods during the first two weeks of the fall and spring semesters, students park along red curbs and drive in circles to find parking. This is despite Foothill Transit bus passes that have been provided at no cost to students for nearly two years as an introduction to the Class Pass program.
Throughout the 13 years of project planning, the college has made every effort to address possible concerns while adhering to the mandates of the State Architect’s Office.

“We’ve tried to mitigate any of the possible issues with the parking structure. We’ve done each of the required steps in terms of environmental impact, traffic studies, construction design, and approval by the state,” Scroggins said.

During the planning stages of the project, Mt. SAC and the City of Walnut worked together. Mt. SAC staff met with the City planning and engineering staff, and in 2007 presented a plan for the structure to the college’s Board of Trustees. The college also submitted environmental impact reports to the City, as required by the California Environmental Quality Act as early as 2002. The reports were then updated in 2005, 2008, and 2012. The California Division of the State Architect made the final decision to approve the parking structure.

The parking structure will take advantage of the hillside contours. It will be five levels on the west side and decrease to only two levels on the east side to protect neighboring residents’ sightlines. It will provide 2,085 spaces. Because it will be built on an existing lot with 435 spaces, the total addition of spaces is 1,650. Temporary Lot M was developed to ease the loss of spaces during construction.

The parking structure location is ideal for students, giving them easy access to classes and student support services. This will reduce the need for students to drive in circles to find a spot in prime lots.
The intersection of Grand Avenue and Mountaineer Road was designed to meet higher traffic levels than it accommodates today. Traffic to the parking structure is expected to generally flow in the opposite direction of traffic from the neighboring homes. During peak periods at the start of semesters, the intersection is forecasted to experience a 10 second increase in wait times. During the rest of the year, the intersection is expected to be much as it is today.

Construction of the parking structure will be conducted in two phases. The first phase includes preparations, such as demolition, underground utility improvements, and earthwork. The second phase – slated to begin this July – entails the actual construction. The parking structure is expected to be finished and ready for use by Jan. 2017.

The parking structure and its related projects, including the addition of a bike lane and Temporary Lot M, will be paid for through Measure RR funds; Mt. SAC’s $353 million facilities bond passed by voters in 2008.

Walnut Gets Sprinkled With Happiness

Happiness Sprinkling Project Coming to Suzanne Middle School

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – On Mar. 18 at Suzanne Middle School, a group of smiling people wearing bright yellow shirts were Sprinkling Happiness.

Created by Laura Lavigne, founder of the Anacortes Center for Happiness, The Happiness Sprinkling Project is “crazy simple and crazy powerful.”

A group of people get together, wearing bright yellow shirts. They gather at a busy spot in the town where they live.  They hold up Happiness Signs. Signs that say things like, “It’s Going to be All Right,” “Breathe,” and “You are Loved.”

They do this for an hour and as they do, magic happens. People being “sprinkled” on their way home from work are surprised, puzzled…and moved.  They smile, they wave, and they honk. Many join in and start some Sprinkling themselves.

The messages are surprising because they ask nothing of the viewer, but instead send an unexpected burst of light, helping people tap into their own hope, strength and joy.

Drama, PALS, and PLUS students were leaders on the day of happiness, sharing positive messages with parents and students on campus, and local seniors.

The Sprinklings started in May 2012, and have been spreading like “happiness.” They have been received with a mix of surprise, delight and occasionally tears of emotion.

In the past few months, Happiness Ambassadors have popped up in Washington DC, Chicago, California, Oregon, Seattle, Florida, Indiana, and Canada. Together they are gradually building a “Happiness Sprinkling Tribe” whose vision is to expand into inner cities and eventually all over the world; they have recently received requests from India, Italy, Germany and the Caribbean.

This growing movement is building a web of Happiness Ambassadors and Happiness Sprinklers, and changing the world one gathering at a time. One of the powerful aspects of this event is that the sets of signs get shipped from one Ambassador to the next, thus forming a global “Happiness Chain Letter,” adopting a very simple Pay It Forward concept.

The Happiness Sprinkling Project has been featured on the GoodNews Network, DailyGood.org, NBC, CBS News, The Huffington Post, Ellen DeGeneres’ blog, and the TEDx platform.

Anyone is invited join in and participate in this powerful and FUN event!  For more information, email info@happinesssprinklingproject.org, or call (360) 464-2229. The Suzanne Middle School contact is teacher, Helen Papadopoulos, (909) 594-1657.

 

Schools Steam Ahead at Science Olympiad Regionals

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) Walnut HS took 2nd Place at the L.A. County Science Olympiad on Feb. 28 (shown with teacher and advisor, Tony Goossens).

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Walnut HS took 2nd Place at the L.A. County Science Olympiad on Feb. 28 (shown with teacher and advisor, Tony Goossens).

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley schools continued their record of exemplary performance during the L.A. County Science Olympiad, held at Occidental College on Feb. 28. There were 140 elementary and secondary schools that participated in the all-day science event.

Walnut High scored 2nd Place, and Diamond Bar High earned 3rd Place award out of 40 participating high school teams.

“These students worked very hard with a dedication that went far beyond expectations,” said Tony Goossens, teacher advisor for the WHS team. “They really represent some of the best minds in the State.”

40 teams competed in the middle school division. Suzanne took 3rd Place, Chaparral 4th Place, and South Point 5th Place.

“What made this year’s 3rd Place win even more special was that it was truly a team effort,” said Suzanne science teacher advisor, Susan Warren. “Every member of this amazing team brought home an individual medal for at least one of the 23 events.”

These five middle and high school teams will now advance to the state competition on April 4 at Canyon High School in Anaheim.

Several elementary schools competed among 60 teams in the Division A tournament, many for the first time. Westhoff won the coveted Gold Medal. Quail Summit, Vejar, Castle Rock, and Evergreen brought home Silver medals. Elementary teams do not compete at the state level.

Most students worked in teams of two to prepare for the 23 events in the categories of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Physics, Technology, Engineering, and Inquiry.

Only 15 members were allowed to compete per school, therefore most students prepared for three or more events.  Some teams focused on anatomy, meteorology, fossils, the solar system and entomology. Some teams designed and built elastic launch gliders, bottle rockets, air trajectory devices, robots, bridges and wheeled vehicles.  There were events that required hands-on lab skills, such as “Bio-Process Lab,” “Can’t Judge a Powder,” “Crime Busters,” and “Experimental Design.

For the engineering events, students made machines that flew in the air, shot balls, dropped weights from a height, and performed energy transfers.

Competitors built a tiny bridge strong enough to support a huge weight of sand, and a vehicle that drove an egg as close to a wall as possible without breaking the egg.

“They did a fantastic job and are ready to take on their next big hurdle, the State Championship!  We are truly proud of what they have accomplished and the amount of time and hard work they put forth for their events,” said South Pointe science teacher and advisor, Crystal Dira.

Science Olympiad teams are championed by families who devote their time and resources in support of students.

“I think the kids did a fantastic job.  They learned while having fun.  It was great!” said Quail Summit parent, Suzanne Zhang.

“I am so proud of this group of talented young scientists who were willing to take risks and pursue advanced studies. They will be competing for their personal best at the upcoming state competition,” Warren added.

WHS Publications Wins Super Sweepstakes

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) WHS Publications won the coveted Super Sweepstakes award at the Eastern Los Angeles Journalism Education Association Write-offs Competition on Feb. 28.

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
WHS Publications won the coveted Super Sweepstakes award at the Eastern Los Angeles Journalism Education Association Write-offs Competition on Feb. 28.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut High School Publications garnered the Super Sweepstakes award for the third time in four years at the Eastern Los Angeles Journalism Education Association (ELAJEA) Write-offs Competition on Sat., Feb. 28.

The competition featured various categories of writing, photography, and yearbook design, and copy writing.

One yearbook team captured the 1st Place Yearbook Sweepstakes trophy, while individual awards helped Walnut pick up a 3rd Place Newspaper sweepstakes trophy and 2nd Place Novice News sweepstakes trophy.

Walnut Valley schools swept all 1st Place sweepstakes trophies at the tourney, with Diamond Bar High School celebrating a 1st Place Newspaper Sweepstakes and 1st Place Novice News Sweepstakes victory.

Congratulations to the following WHS individual winners who qualified to advance to the State-Write-Offs:

Yearbook Layout: 1st Place – Crystal Chang, Aaron Yong, Yolanda Yu, Laura Zhang; Yearbook Layout: 3rd Place – Jezebel Cardenas, Emily Chen, Jessica Lee, Cynthia Lu; Yearbook Copy: 1st Place – Crystal Chang, Aaron Yong, Yolanda Yu, Laura Zhang; Yearbook Copy: 3rd Place – Jezebel Cardenas, Emily Chen, Jessica Lee, Cynthia Lu.

News Photography: 2nd Place – Andraes Arteaga; News Photography: 3rd Place – Elaine Liu; Feature Photography: 4th Place – Sajid Iqbal; Critical Review: 1st Place – Lisa Shen; Critical Review: 2nd Place – Nikita Patel; Editorial Cartooning: 3rd Place – Gabrielle Manuit; Novice News: 8th Place – Brian Wu.

News Writing: 6th Place – Brandon Ng; Sports Writing: – 1st Place – Ted Zhu; Feature Writing: 1st Place – Alison Chang; Feature Writing: 10th Place – Spencer Wu; Editorial Writing: 1st Place – Michelle Chang.

Walnut Council Recap

(Photo By: Raymond Mendoza) Residents of the Walnut’s Timberline neighborhood came to voice their strong concerns about the forthcoming Mt. SAC parking structure.

(Photo By: Raymond Mendoza)
Residents of the Walnut’s Timberline neighborhood came to voice their strong concerns about the forthcoming Mt. SAC parking structure.

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Walnut City Council’s March 11 meeting was wrought with angered and concerned citizens as the City once again failed to take public action against Mt. San Antonio’s planned construction.

Before the Mt. SAC discussions, however, the Council approved its meeting minutes for Feb. 25; an Ordinance amending Title VI, Chapter 25, Article 1, Section 25-26.7 of the Walnut Municipal Code relating to tattoo/body art establishments; a Resolution in the amount of $794,210.57; a Resolution directing the preparation and filing of the Engineer’s Report for the 2015-16 Lighting and Open Space Maintenance District No. 1 Assessments, and setting the time and place for a meeting and public hearing; and the award of a bid for the 2014-15 Maintenance Area 3 Slurry Seal Program to Doug Martin Contracting, Inc., in the amount of $365,939.09.

After the other business was taken care of, residents of the nearby Timberline neighborhood voiced their concerns during the meeting, with some calling Mt. SAC’s officials guilty of committing “atrocious” acts to the City by refusing to consult the surrounding neighborhoods about its construction plans, which include a parking structure, an amphitheater and other projects. The residents’ complaints maintained that the proposed structure would be an eyesore for their view of the City, and they questioned the environmental and traffic impacts that construction would have on the area.

Certain members of the Council, including Mary Su and Tony Cartagena, claimed they felt empathy for the Timberline residents and their frustration with the local community college. Su, specifically, claimed that Mt. SAC was not being a “good neighbor” to the City and its residents, and that some form of action was needed.

Mayor Pro Tem, Eric Ching, said that while he could not divulge any information about the City’s plans for a lawsuit, he said steps were being taken “behind closed doors” to ensure the safety of Walnut residents and the overpopulation of Mt. SAC.

On the other hand, City Attorney, Michael Montgomery, made it very clear to the attending residents that the City will likely start litigation against Mt. SAC to halt the parking structure. Furthermore, Montgomery said the Mt. SAC officials exhibited “absolute arrogance” by refusing to read two separate letters about possibly amending the location of the parking structure – one from the City Council and one from the Timberline residents.

Montgomery then said the City had already started down the “legal track” to appease the Timberline residents.

Since the item concerning Mt. SAC’s parking structure was only a discussion item, there was no action taken.

The Council then adjourned at 8:40 p.m. with plans to meet on March 25 at 7 p.m. in the Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

It’s In The Details At Alamo Car Wash

Staff Reports

If you want to see the difference in the way Alamo Car Wash and Detail Center can make your car look and run, visit them at 784 N. Nogales Street in Walnut. For more information, including business hours, call them at (626) 965-7922.

If you want to see the difference in the way Alamo Car Wash and Detail Center can make your car look and run, visit them at 784 N. Nogales Street in Walnut. For more information, including business hours, call them at (626) 965-7922.

Walnut – You’re a busy person with a lot to do.  You need a car wash, an oil change, a haircut, and you haven’t even had lunch yet.  You could run all over town trying to get all of this done, or you could get it all done at one stop: Alamo Car Wash and Detail Center.

Dan Gerstner and his wife, Sylvia, opened Alamo more than 18 years ago, and they have run the business with a simple philosophy ever since.

“Our philosophy is to always have satisfied customers. We want them to be satisfied with what we do here, and 99.9 percent of the time, they are,” Gerstner said.

Situated in a four-acre complex at the corner of Nogales and Francesca Drive in Walnut, Alamo features a hand car wash, a Mobil gas station and an Xpress Lube oil change center, as well as restaurants, a beauty salon, dentist’s office, locksmith and a bookkeeping service.

“We even have a shoeshine guy.  It’s really a one-stop shop,” Gerstner said.

Alamo offers full-service hand car washes and detailing, which includes waxing, buffing and interior cleaning; as well as an express wash – just $6.95 – for people on the go.

Asked why people should visit Alamo instead of other area car washes, Gerstner said, “I don’t know what other car washes do, but I know what we do. We’re very picky about service and the little details. And usually, when the car comes out, it’s cleaner than it’s ever been.”

Package washes are popular, Gerstner said, especially the Silver Package Wash.  It includes an air freshener, sealer wax, polish wax, rainbow wax, clear coat sealant and Armor-All on the tires.

“If people need something at the last minute, like greeting cards, we have a wide selection they can choose from while they’re waiting for their car.  We also carry just about any kind of auto accessory you might need,” Gerstner said.  And, a multi-wash book is a great gift for anyone with a car.

Alamo’s oil change service is also extremely popular, and runs just $30.99.

“Our quick lube service is very complete and includes transmission, power steering, brake fluid, cooling system and fuel emissions services.  Plus, oil change customers receive a free car wash.

Gerstner admits that Alamo is not the cheapest place to have your car washed or serviced, but maintains that the services they offer make them competitive with just about anybody else.

“We offer a higher level of service than many other places, and that’s why we’ve been so successful.  People love their cars – their car is like their baby. We see customers who come in twice a week, and their cars look clean, but they still want them washed here,” Gerstner explained.

If you want to see the difference in the way Alamo Car Wash and Detail Center can make your car look and run, visit them at 784 N. Nogales Street in Walnut.  For more information, including business hours, call them at (626) 965-7922.

Walnut-Diamond Bar Annual Golf Classic

Photo Courtesy: Western Hills Country Club

Photo Courtesy: Western Hills Country Club

Staff Reports

Walnut – The Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club cordially invites you to participate in the Annual Golf Classic, to be held on Mon., Apr. 6.

Proceeds from the Golf Classic will benefit the Explorer, Reserve Deputy and Citizen Volunteer programs at the Sheriff’s Station.  These volunteers give thousands of hours of work by doing extra patrols, staffing community events, and providing additional clerical and support work inside and out of the station.

The non-profit Booster Club’s sole purpose is to provide much needed equipment and logistical support to the Volunteers, Explorers, Reserve Deputy Sheriffs and Disaster Communication Specialists.  A tax deductible donation will help purchase equipment and supplies for all of the volunteer programs to be vibrant and successful.

The Annual Golf Classic will be held at the Western Hills Country Club, 1800 Carbon Canyon Road, in Chino Hills (91709).  Registration will be held on game day between 9:30 and 11:15 a.m., with a Shotgun Start beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Sponsorships are available in Platinum, Gold, and Silver, as well as Beverage Carts, Hole in One, Goodie Bags, Closest to Pin and Tee Signs – with donations ranging from $100 to $3,000.  The cost for a Single Player to golf is $100.

For additional information, contact Sergeant Mark Saldecke at (909) 595-2264; or Booster Club Member, Gil Rivera at (909) 967-4525.

 

WV Parents Get Close-Up Look At Common Core

By Kelli Gile

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) Vejar Elementary parent, Christina Kondo, chats with kindergarteners ready to create a design with triangles.

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Vejar Elementary parent, Christina Kondo, chats with kindergarteners ready to create a design with triangles.

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District parents recently stepped into classrooms to see the new Common Core State Standards in action.

Vejar Elementary opened its doors to a delegation of 35 parent leaders and administrators on Feb. 26.

“We want to provide parents with an opportunity to see firsthand what Common Core looks like in practice and what the instructional methodology looks like and sounds like,” explained Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Members of the Coordinating Council parent leadership group represented all fourteen schools during the tour.

“We’re excited for this opportunity to show what’s happening in classrooms with the transition into Common Core,” said Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Matthew Witmer.

Teaching and learning looks different in classrooms with the implementation of Common Core.  Along with implementing the new standards, there is a shift in the way instruction is taught in classrooms, embedding 21st Century skills of collaboration, communication, critical thinking, creativity and citizenship into the curriculum.

Students have become involved with projects and collaboration, along with expressing and writing about their thinking processes in all subject areas, including mathematics.

The tour offered a snapshot into this transition.  Parents split into small groups with WVUSD principals and administrators to tour all grade levels – transitional kindergarten through 5th Grade.

“I’m very interested in seeing what Common Core looks like,” said Collegewood and Walnut Elementary parent, Lily Eibert.  “And I want to share with other parents.”

“The more we get to understand it and see the impact on students, I think the more comfortable we all are as we make this transition,” Witmer added.

During the tour, parents immediately saw visible student engagement, interactive instruction, and increased use of technology.

Groups visited each class for 15 minutes, and then debriefed outside.

“We saw kids collaborating and working in groups. It just seemed like they’re learning more and doing a lot more thinking – which is good!” said Sam Castorena from Castle Rock.

Castorena shared that he had a certain perception about the new standards when he went into the experience at Chaparral.

“And by the time we were done it had changed. I think Common Core is probably one of the biggest benefits that we’re going to see in our country for a really long time.”

Diamond Bar parent, Yara Sands, was very impressed during the visit to an 8th Grade Language arts class.

“In the past, students read a book and took a 10-question quiz – and that was it,” she noted.

During a multi-layered assignment, a class studied about the author Edgar Allan Poe, and discovered that his wife and several family members died of tuberculosis. To integrate science into the lesson, students also read an article by the American Lung Association about the disease. And finally, they wrote a letter to the famed author to describe how the women in his life could have been saved, citing evidence from the article.

“They’re digging in deeper and deeper. It was a great experience and made me even prouder to be a Chaparral Cougar!” exclaimed Sands, the school’s Community Club President.

“The conversations after the tour were amazing.  Parents gained an awareness of how literacy is incorporated across all subject areas and observed some of the real world examples and applications,” Taylor added. “I think this separates us from other districts around the country. We’re doing something that is really unique.”

 

Walnut Valley Hosts Cornerstone Awards

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) Mary Harms was crowned 2014 Classified Employee of the Year at the "A Class Act" Cornerstone Awards Gala on Feb. 19 (shown with Board Members Dr. Tony Torng, Helen Hall, Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz, and Personnel Commissioners Ron Everett and Gayle Pacheco).

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Mary Harms was crowned 2014 Classified Employee of the Year at the “A Class Act” Cornerstone Awards Gala on Feb. 19 (shown with Board Members Dr. Tony Torng, Helen Hall, Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz, and Personnel Commissioners Ron Everett and Gayle Pacheco).

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District recognized a dozen outstanding employees during the 16th Annual “A Class Act” Cornerstone Awards Gala on Feb. 19, at the Pomona Valley Mining Company.

The Cornerstone Award recognizes exemplary classified (non-teaching) employees who have gone “above and beyond the call of duty” in providing outstanding customer service to the District and community.

Congratulations to the following 2014 Cornerstone Award honorees:  Mary Harms, Office Assistant (Evergreen Elementary); April Lee, Instructional Aide II-Bilingual/Bicultural (Suzanne Middle School); Judy Marinez, Office Assistant (Westhoff Elementary); Barbara Chin, Instructional Aide II Bilingual/Bicultural (Collegewood Elementary); Eric Guzman, Noon Aide (Collegewood Elementary); Sam Sornoso, Director (Maintenance, Operations, Transportation, Facilities); Gene Kennebrew, Lead Grounds Worker (Maintenance); Li Nai Chang, Bilingual/Bicultural Language Technician (Educational Services); Sunghee Lee, Bilingual/Bicultural Language Technician (Educational Services); Jon Jackson, Custodian II (Maple Hill Elementary); Robyn Craig, Staff Secretary (Ron Hockwalt Academies); and Cindy Franco, Instructional Aide II-Special Education (Collegewood Elementary).

“We really value our classified employees,” said Superintendent, Dr. Robert Taylor. “Tonight’s recipients represent the finest for 2014 out of more than 650 across the District.”  Honorees were lauded with personalized tributes and gifts.

Mary Harms was named the 2014 Classified Employee of the Year at the culmination of the program.

“I’m so proud to be part of Walnut Valley,” Harms said. “I’ve worked at several school sites and always tell parents that every school is wonderful and so are the people. And I really mean it!”

Harms has been a familiar face in the District for many years as an active parent volunteer. She was hired in 2000 as a PIP/PALS intervention aide and provided vital support to at-risk students. She joined the staff at Evergreen in 2012. Harms is the ultimate professional and works tirelessly, while always maintaining a positive attitude. She helps set the tone for the school and makes everyone feel welcome and cared for.  Harms was nominated for the award by Principal, Carolyn Wills.

The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation and WVUSD Personnel Commission co-sponsor the annual recognition event. Dr. Michelle Harold, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Robert Chang, Director of Human Resources, hosted the ceremony.

“Mary goes above and beyond for kids. I’ve seen her around our schools, in the community, and at church always helping people. She is a really great person and absolutely deserves this award!” said Gayle Pacheco, Personnel Commissioner and WVEF Board Member.

“Classified employees are exemplary representatives of the District. The heart of the Walnut Valley Unified School District is people like Mary,” Board President Larry Redinger stated.

Thank you to the following event sponsors: Schools First Federal Credit Union; Sandy Best; BB & T Insurance Services; Massage Envy; and LifeTouch Photography.

Walnut Council Recap

(Photo Courtesy: City of Walnut) Walnut City Council

(Photo Courtesy: City of Walnut)
Walnut City Council

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Walnut’s City Council was met with an outpour of concerned citizens during its latest Feb. 25 meeting, each speaking out against the planned Mt. San Antonio College parking structure, urging the City to move toward litigation to stop its construction.

First, however, the Council approved the minutes for the Feb. 11 Council meeting and the second reading of City Ordinance No. 15-03, which would amend the City’s municipal code to ensure that tattoo/body art establishments stay 500 feet away from child-related businesses.

For the consent calendar, the council approved all items on the agenda including a resolution of the City allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $605,241.94; the contract amendment for Placeworks to prepare environmental and technical analyses for the Shea Homes mixed-use project on Valley Boulevard; the request for installation of guard rails on Gartel Drive; and the request to provide legislative advocacy and governmental affairs services.

The Walnut Housing Authority only had one item approved, which was for certain claims and demands in the amount of $20,023.11.

Finally, public comments given earlier during the meeting urged the City to seek litigation as a means of blocking the placement of Mt. SAC’s proposed parking structure. One resident even went so far as to use children to deliver prepared speeches, asking the Council to not to have the nearby school ruin the views in their neighborhood or further pollute the air.

After the public comments, Council Member Mary Su called for a future discussion about Mt. SAC’s master plan of upcoming construction projects.

The Council then adjourned into closed session to discuss the possible litigation against Mt. SAC and the proposed parking structure, with plans to hold their next meeting on Mar. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Walnut Board Honors Star Students And Partners

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) WVUSD Board of Trustees lauded Suzanne Middle School parent volunteers, Christina Kondo and Lenora Wong, with the Community Partner Award during the Feb. 19 meeting (shown with their children, Principal Les Ojeda, and Board President, Larry Redinger).

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
WVUSD Board of Trustees lauded Suzanne Middle School parent volunteers, Christina Kondo and Lenora Wong, with the Community Partner Award during the Feb. 19 meeting (shown with their children, Principal Les Ojeda, and Board President, Larry Redinger).

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees recognized exemplary students and community volunteers during the Feb. 19 meeting.

Westhoff Elementary 5th Grader, Philbert Loekman, received the Super Star Student Award.

Loekman came to Westhoff as a kindergartner. All his teachers concur that he is a young man who works hard, stays positive, perseveres, and achieves his goal.

“Philbert is creative, asks good questions, and has great problem solving skills,” Principal Denise Rendon said.

While his teachers have certainly contributed to his success, it’s also greatly due to his hard work, drive to excel, and incredible amount of love and support from his parents and siblings.

“I believe it’s because of the partnership between his family and our school, and Philbert himself, that he has grown and matured into a confident, polite, high-achieving student that we can all be very proud of,” Rendon added. “He is one of Westhoff’s finest!”

Longtime Westhoff Elementary community member and talented artist, Shel Dominica, was honored with the Partner in Education Award.  The relationship began several years ago when her son Shane was a student. Dominica created and painted a “Where the Wild Things Are” wall mural on the school library. The featured teacher is WVUSD retiree, Ann Hedstrom, who is surrounded by former students, including the artist’s son.

“Shel quickly became a valuable resource. First as an involved parent and now as a treasured community partner,” said Rendon.

15 years ago, Dominica designed the first school logo for t-shirts that is still used today. Recently she repaired and repainted the Blue Ribbon logo and mural. Dominica has contributed banners for back-to school nights, Halloween parades, and Mrs. Nelson’s book club events. She is currently working on a dedication script for the school’s new walking labyrinth.

“Westhoff is very fortunate to have Shel as our Community Partner. But the real reason we love Shel is her quiet demeanor, her generosity, and her talent in creating our fabulous Westhoff wear.

The Board lauded Suzanne Middle School parent volunteers, Christina Kondo and Lenora Wong, with the Community Partner Award.

            “They both have been supportive parents and exemplary leaders for our community,” stated Principal Les Ojeda.

Kondo and Wong currently serve as co-presidents for the school’s Community Club. The organization plays a pivotal role in supplementing additional resources that the general budget cannot support.

“These ladies are often at our school site counting money, organizing events, and supporting our students with many activities they provide. They work exceptionally well with one another and bring a feeling of unity and hard work to the parent group,” Ojeda said.

Community Club supports numerous activities including 6th Grade Renaissance Faire, Greek Festival, and Summit; 7th Grade Science Assembly, Wildlife Learning Center; 8th Grade Blue and White Tea, Summit, End of Year Picnic, Promotion, Science Olympiad, Math Counts, Reading Challenge, school-wide assemblies, Spring Musical, Binder Reminders, teacher support funds, and even new benches for the lunch area. A successful booster drive helped raise close to $70,000 for the school.

“Thank you both for your dedication, commitment, and of the time you spent working at our school. You have truly made a positive difference for all our students and teachers!” Ojeda added.

The Board presented Suzanne Middle School 8th Grader, Jocelyn Nakamine, with the Super Star Student Award.

“Jocelyn has a heart of gold,” Ojeda commented. “What stands out the most about Jocelyn is her passion to help others and make a difference in their lives.”

The teen often spends time reaching out to kids on campus that look sad or lonely.

“She will simply sit and get to know them for a bit and make sure the conversation ends with a smile,” Ojeda explained.

Nakamine is a member of the Elite Leadership class. Her committee work focuses on activities that inspire unity and friendship. She recently led the Hot Cocoa Chatter event that helped students get to know each other.

“It was a difficult task that required tons of planning, hard work, and even running with cups of cocoa!  But she executed it flawlessly, demonstrating true leadership ability.” Ojeda said.

Peers have written about Nakamine in their leadership journals as an example of a true leader. Many admire how hard she worked to improve volleyball skills before the season began. She is a constant source of encouragement during practice and games.

Ojeda shared a tribute from leadership teacher, Kristina Natividad.

“When filling out student recommendations, the highest level on the rating scale is top 10 in a teacher’s career,” she explained. “In the past ten years, I have checked that box maybe once. Without hesitation, I would choose that explanation for Jocelyn Nakamine.”

Walnut Elementary Rings in Lunar New Year

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) Nearly 200 Dual Language Immersion students at Walnut Elementary rang in the Lunar New Year for their parents and families on February 20

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Nearly 200 Dual Language Immersion students at Walnut Elementary rang in the Lunar New Year for their parents and families on February 20

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Fri., Feb. 20 was an exciting day at Walnut Elementary.  Nearly 200 Dual Language Immersion students in kindergarten through 3rd Grades celebrated Lunar New Year by performing for their parents and families.

Mandarin songs, ribbon dances, and even a play explaining how the animals were chosen to be part of the 12 signs of the Chinese Zodiac were performed.

The dress rehearsal on Thursday was equally as meaningful as all 560 students sang in Mandarin for the finale.

This Lunar New Year celebration would not be possible without the hard work of the Dual Language Immersion teachers:  Carol Cheng, Jeannie Lin, Henry Lin, Krystin Wong, Connie Shiroishi, Amy Wu, Connie Chen, and Vivian Ramirez.  In addition, parents assisted in costume and prop preparation.

“Dual Language Immersion is one strand of world language education at Walnut Elementary,” Principal Janet Green said.

The FLES program (Foreign Language in Elementary School) is taught to students in kindergarten through third grades by the Chinese exchange teacher.

Students in Grades 3 to 5 are enrolled in the online Middlebury Interactive Language program and may choose among Spanish, French, and Chinese.

Every teacher on campus provides global education through the Units of Study, which reflect Common Core standards.

Walnut Elementary is truly a neighborhood school with a global perspective!

Garage Fire Ruins Chino Hills Home

(Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District) A Firefighter suppresses the last of the flames at a residential structure fire in the early morning hours of Feb. 24.

(Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District)
A Firefighter suppresses the last of the flames at a residential structure fire in the early morning hours of Feb. 24.

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Chino Valley Fire District Firefighters responded to a single-family residential structure fire on the 17800 block of Lone Ranger Trail in Chino Hills just after 3 a.m. on Tues., Feb. 24.

Firefighters on scene found a working fire in the garage with some extension into the home.  Two vehicles inside of the garage were destroyed. The two residents of the home were displaced due to smoke damage throughout the home.

The Fire District’s Community Liaison Officer is assisting the homeowners through the recovery process.  Chino Valley Fire District Investigators determined the cause of the fire was the dryer.  Damage was estimated at $150,000.

The Fire District encourages residents to check and clean their home dryers.  Lint can build up in your dryer or in the exhaust duct over time, blocking airflow and causing excessive heat buildup that can result in a fire.  Below are some safety tips to help prevent a dryer fire in your home.

  • Have your dryer installed and serviced by a professional.
  • Do not use the dryer without a lint filter.
  • Make sure you clean the lint filter before or after each load of laundry. Remove lint that has collected around the drum.
  • Make sure the air exhaust vent pipe is not restricted and the outdoor vent flap will open when the dryer is operating. Once a year, or more often if you notice that it is taking longer than normal for your clothes to dry, clean lint out of the vent pipe or have a dryer lint removal service do it for you.