Category Archives: Walnut

What’s Happening In Walnut and Diamond Bar

Staff Reports

 

Walnut/Diamond Bar – There is much ado in the cities of Walnut and Diamond Bar.  Here is some information from their websites to keep you in the know:

 

WALNUT

  • Walnut Selfie Campaign: The City of Walnut wants to remind residents to shop locally! In order to promote local businesses, the City is conducting a “Selfie Walnut Businesses” campaign. To join in the fun, simply take a picture of yourself while you are shopping at local businesses, and email them to Derrick Womble at dwomble@ci.walnut.ca.us. Once they are reviewed, the Selfies will be posted to the City of Walnut’s Instagram, Twitter and Facebook pages (@CityofWalnut). The deadline to send pictures is Wed., Dec. 31, 2014. For more information, contact the Community Developmental Department at (909) 595-7543.
  • Winter Wonderland Santa Pictures Are Up: Did you or your children take a picture with Santa at the Walnut Winter Wonderland on Dec. 13 at the Walnut Senior Center? Your pictures are now available for you to save! You can see your pictures on the City of Walnut Facebook page or go to cityofwalnut.com for a direct link to the pictures.
  • Sandbags Available At City Yard: With the rain coming and going, keep in mind that you can pick up sandbags at the Walnut City Yard, located at 21701 East Valley Blvd., in Walnut.

 

DIAMOND BAR

  • Sheriff’s Vacation Check Program: If you are planning to go out of town, take advantage of the Diamond Bar-Walnut Sheriff’s Station’s Vacation Check Service. A Sheriff’s deputy or trained Volunteer on Patrol will monitor your property, at least once a day while you are away, to check for evidence of possible forced entry or any other suspicious activity. This service is free, and Vacation Check Request Forms may be completed by visiting the Sheriff’s Station at 21695 E. Valley Blvd. in Walnut. For more information, call (909) 595-2264.
  • 2015 Calendar and Street Sweeping Schedule Order Deadline: The deadline to order your City of Diamond Bar’s 2015 Calendar and Services Guide and magnetic Street Sweeping Schedule is approaching quickly. To receive one or both of these items by mail, place your request no later than Mon., Dec. 29 by visiting DiamondBarCA.gov/reservemycopy. If you do not have Internet access, you may call in your request to (909) 839-7054. For more information, visit ci.diamond-bar.ca.us.

Walnut: Councilwoman Mary Su Honors Seniors

By Fabiola Huerta

Bob Pacheco-mary-su-tony-cartagena

Council members Bob Pacheco, Mary Su and Tony Cartagena gather to honor seniors at the holiday luncheon on Dec. 16. (Photo Courtesy: Fabiola Huerta)

Walnut – On Tues., Dec. 16, Walnut Councilmember, Mary Su, honored Walnut seniors with a holiday luncheon at the Walnut Senior Center.

The festive event brought together the older and younger generations of the City.  The program included musical performances featuring over 60 kindergarten and preschool children singing Christmas carols and telling holiday stories. The program also included a magician performing for the seniors.

The event was attended by representatives from Congressman Ed Royce’s office and Supervisor Gloria Molina’s office.  Also in attendance were Walnut Council members, LA County Firefighters, LA County Sheriff’s personnel, and Walnut City Manager, Robert M. Wishner, and executive staff.

For more information about the City of Walnut, please visit the website at www.ci.walnut.ca.us, and follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

 

 

Walnut: WVUSD Annual Reorganization

By Kelli Gile

WVUSD-Board-President-Cindy-Ruiz

Outgoing Board President Cindy Ruiz was honored for her outstanding service during the December 11 re-organization meeting (shown with newly elected Board President, Larry Redinger). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees elected Larry Redinger as President, Helen Hall as Vice President, and Dr. Tony Torng as Clerk during the annual reorganization meeting on December 10.

The new officers will serve one-year terms through December 2015.

Trustee Cindy Ruiz was honored with an engraved gavel plaque for her service as the 2014 Board President.

“Cindy has done an amazing job this past year. Thank you for your dedication to the District and especially for keeping things moving in a positive direction,” Redinger said.

 

 

Walnut: Visit The Recently Renovated Library

Staff Reports

 

walnut library          Walnut – You may not have noticed, but the Library in the City of Walnut is back open for business!

Closed to the public this past June, the five month, $1.1 million renovation has been completed and the Walnut Library reopened its door on Mon., Nov. 17.

With technological additions funded by the former First District County Supervisor, Gloria Molina, the renovation features a redesigned interior with new carpet, fresh paint and new furniture.  A large group study room has been added, as well as a new Family Place; and the latest in modern technologies.

The Walnut Library now houses 23 all new public-access computers; a flat screen monitor in the Teen Section for gaming and programs; the installation of three automated check-in systems for customer self-service; and an iPad catalog search. There is even a brand new vending machine that will allow patrons to check out laptop computers for use while in the Library.

The Walnut Library is a valuable resource for everyone; not just as a study source for students, but for readers of all ages, including access to digital media, and events open to the public.  And look for special family story-time fun coming in January.

 

Walnut Library Hours:

Sunday/Monday – Closed

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday – 1 to 8 p.m.

Friday, Saturday – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

The Walnut Library is located at 21155 La Puente Road.  They can be reached at (909) 595-0757, or visit http://www.colapublib.org/libs/walnut.

 

 

Walnut: ”Lucky Cat” Author Visits Walnut Elementary

By Kelli Gile

Children’s-author-Sunny-Seki

”Lucky Cat” Author Visits Walnut Elementary (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Children’s author, Sunny Seki, introduced his tales of Japanese folklore to Walnut Elementary students during a visit on December 5.Before Seki was a published author, he was busy telling stories to his nine children at bedtime. Over the years, as the stories multiplied and developed into slideshows, his wife Judy suggested that he write children’s books. The couple eventually closed a successful photography business so Seki could pursue his dream of becoming a full-time author/illustrator.

This idea for Seki’s first published book, The Tale of the Lucky Cat, was born when one of his children asked about the history of the Japanese lucky cat. He couldn’t find any books on the subject, so he decided to write one.

“I’m the first one!” he said proudly of the award-winning book that retells the ancient legend of the humble toymaker who remembers a rescued cat by creating clay statues of a cat with a raised paw.

            Seki enlisted the help of a few Walnut Elementary students during a pantomime of the story. His wife narrated the book and showed slides during the assembly. One student asked if he liked being an author.

“I love it, so I can come see you guys!” Seki exclaimed.

He told the youngsters that creativity is the place where his stories begin.

“Imagination comes first, then sketching, then a model (usually my kids), and then I start to draw.”

Seki shared the themes of his other published books, Yuko-Chan and the Daruma Doll and The Last Kappa of Old Japan, along with his trove of vintage toy treasures.

The author explained that the roly-poly Daruma dolls are a symbol of perseverance and good luck.

“If you fall seven times, you get up eight times – and you never give up!” said Seki.

The Seki family was discovered bringing these creative stories to life with intricate shadow puppet shows and featured on the Disney Channel’s, “What a Life!”

Another family was originally hired for the show, but they couldn’t act well in front of the camera.

“So, you never know what good luck is waiting for you!” Seki said.

Walnut Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut Valley master choral

Members of the Walnut Valley Symphony and Master Chorale put on a short holiday performance during the Dec. 10 City Council meeting. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Walnut – The Walnut City Council met recently to discuss a hotly debated tract of land near Silver Valley Trail and Cantel Place, along with a full agenda of items.To start, the Walnut Valley Symphony and Master Chorale gave a short holiday performance for the Council and its attendees. The group sang “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night” during their short performance; which was met with much applause by community members.

The Council then recognized Fujiyama Nursery as Walnut’s 2014 Business of the Quarter for their service to the City and 50 years of operation. Mayor Nancy Tragarz stated that the 50 years in business was quite a feat, lasting through years of financial trends and showing that hard work means prosperity in Walnut.

“50 years of service is almost as old as the City,” Tragarz said. “We would like to recognize your dedication and great effort of your business.”

The Council then went on to approve the minutes for the Oct. 22 City Council and Walnut Housing Authority meeting along with the Nov. 12 City Council special meeting.

The meeting’s public hearing item, which repealed parts of Walnut’s Municipal Code relating to residency restrictions for sex offenders, was also adopted.

All items on the consent calendar were approved, including a resolution allowing the claims and demands in the amount of $1,600,907.43, a submittal of application for all CalRecyle Grants, for which the City is eligible, amendments to the City Manager’s contract, an additional appropriation to proposition A for a Dial-A-Cab Program photo identification system, the request for appropriation of $81,355 from the 25 Fund to Account 01-5600-6216 to complete the Meadowpass Road Conservation Easement Transfer, the reappointment of Council member Mary Su to the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District Board of Trustees to a two-year term, the final acceptance of the Amar Road Rehabilitation Project, and the five-year extension of solid waste and street sweeping contracts with Valley Vista Services with no CPI rate increase for 2015-2016.

The Council then stated discussions for its biggest item of the night, the clarification of City Council determination regarding the Dec. 11, 2013 appeal of tentative tract map number 53924.

According to the night’s debates and discussions, several citizens brought up various concerns for a tract of land near Silver Valley Trail and Cantel Place, which has been in the process of being developed into six residential lots for several years. The residents claimed that developer, Han Harijanto, was not in compliance with the City of Walnut Oak and Walnut Tree preservation ordinance. The subdivision is also not consistent with the City’s Rural Overlay Design guidelines, and a mandated Negative Declaration inadequately addressed the preservation of trees.

During the meeting, several residents of the area expressed their concerns to have the plans of the tract sent back to the Planning Commission stage in order to get changes done.

Harijanto, who was also present at the meeting, said his developments have been delayed for many months and that bringing his plans back to the Planning Commission would cost him thousands of dollars since the development plans would need another environmental impact report, engineer review and other services.

Residents claimed that allowing the development to take place would fly in the face of many City ordinances, specifically when concerning the trees in the area.

After a back and forth between the Council and neighborhood residents that lasted more than 60 minutes, an exasperated Harijanto said, “We’ve done everything we can … it’s almost been six years.”

However, the City Council sided with the residents and decided to have the tentative tract map sent back to the Planning Commission in order to have a more in-depth tree study completed to appease residents.

Tragarz said to help with some of the financial burden of the development, the City would waive its administration fees associated with bringing the subdivision back to the Planning Commission.

After announcements by the City Council members and staff, the meeting was adjourned with plans to meet again after the New Year on Jan. 14, 2015 at 7 p.m., in the Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Walnut: Mt. SAC Flying Team Wins Again

By Mike Taylor
Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College Flying Team won the Top Two-Year College Team Trophy for the 24th consecutive year at the National Intercollegiate Flying Association’s regional competition, hosted recently by San Diego Christian College at Gillespie Airport in San Diego.

“This year marks the 24th consecutive year our team has won the top community college trophy – a truly incredible run,” said Mt. SAC Flying Team Advisor and Aeronautics, Professor Robert Rogus.

The 2014 Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference (SAFECON) is a competition for university and community college flying teams. The regional airmeet featured flying teams from six colleges, including Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, San Jose State University, and the U.S. Air Force Academy, with a total of 66 students competing.

In addition to the Top Two-Year School Award, the Mt. SAC team won the Safety Trophy. Individually, Sebastian Plaister (San Dimas) won the instrument flight event and ranked sixth as the overall competitor at the airmeet. Jason Juarez (Ontario) took third in the message drop event.           Overall, Mt. SAC placed fifth with 43 points. The top three regional teams receive invitations to the national competition.

Over the years, the Mt. SAC Flying Team has consistently earned top honors as one of the best collegiate flying teams in the country. The team has won the Top Community College trophy at the regional competition every year since 1991. Mt. SAC has won the Top U. S.  Community College award at the national airmeet in 1984, 1985, 1995, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014.

 

SGV: Shop Local. Shop Small.

Staff Reports

SGV – Are you an over-achiever who jumped up at the crack before midnight to complete your holiday shopping on Black Friday (and are now kicked back, relaxed, and watching everyone else scramble); or are you an adrenaline junkie who loves the chase of the last few hours on Christmas Eve?

Whatever your shopping style, cities, chambers of commerce and retailers are encouraging you to “Shop Small.” When you keep your hard-earned dollars local, more of what you spend helps to support the communities where you live by sustaining parks, recreation, schools, libraries and other local services.

The City of Walnut is even promoting a “Walnut Selfie Business Campaign,” to remind residents to shop locally this season. Residents are encouraged to take pictures of themselves shopping at local businesses and forward them to the City of Walnut Community Development Department via email. Selfies will be posted to the City’s Instagram, Twitter and Facebook pages. The campaign is going on now through Wed., Dec. 31. Show your civic pride and send your selfie to dwomble@ci.walnut.ca.us.

According to the Regional Chamber of Commerce of San Gabriel Valley, there are some very good reasons to shop small, by shopping locally:

  • Shopping local creates jobs. Shops in your town create local employment and self-employment. These people in turn spend in the local community.
  • Local, independent shops invest more in their communities. Local businesses are proportionately more generous in their support of local charities, schools and community events. Supporting local shops means a financial impact on your community.
  • Local shops sell a wide range of great products at affordable prices. Many people fall out of the habit of shopping locally and are then surprised by the range of products and gifts available.
  • Shopping local saves you money. Out of town shops have done a good job of convincing us that local business equals expensive. If you add travel, fees to transfer items and your time, the overall cost is often much higher.
  • Shopping local retains communities. People don’t like losing shops and services in small towns, but don’t equate this to how they spend their money.
  • Shopping local retains your distinctiveness. Independent shops create unique shopping experiences. Local businesses respond quickly to the needs of local customers, stocking products to meet the changing population needs.
  • Shopping local saves the environment. Local shops often stock a high percentage of locally sourced goods which do not require long car and bus journeys, helping to reduce our global footprint.
  • Local shops are for everyone. Most people can get to their local shops easily and this is especially important for the elderly and young generations, and those without transportation.
  • Local shops value you more. Evidence from numerous surveys show people receive better customer care and service locally. These businesses survive by their reputation and repeat business, which means you get a higher standard of service.
  • Shopping local saves services. Private and public sector services tend to cluster around shops. As shops disappear so do hairdressers, banks, restaurants, etc.

Statistics say that each dollar spent locally can return up to five times that amount within a community through city taxes, employee wages, and the purchase of supplies and services at other local companies. Locally owned, independent businesses return about 80% of each dollar to their community, as opposed to big box or chains, which contribute about 40%.

So get out there and shop…but shop small. Happy holidays!

 

Walnut’s Winter “Whoville” Wonderland

Staff Reports

Walnut – Walnut is transforming into a wintery “Whoville” Wonderland this holiday season. The Walnut Senior Center Parking Lot will be filled with snow on Sat., Dec. 13, from 6 to 10 p.m. For only $8, participants will be able to enjoy the unlimited sled rides, ice skating, games, snow ball battlefield, and live entertainment.

This year’s entertainment line-up includes community groups opening for our main 8 p.m. act, the Filharmonic, featured in NBC’s “Sing Off” competition. This evening will be a night to remember. We encourage you to bring your blankets and enjoy our outdoor lounge area for a movie showing of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” at 8:30 p.m., with a Hot Cocoa bar service.

Slide your way over in your best “Whoville Do” or stop by our Whoville Hair Salon and get into the wintery “Whoville” spirit to experience the fun of Walnut’s Winter Wonderland.

As if the Winter Wonderland isn’t enough, Santa and the Grinch are inviting you and your family to gather round the tree for a festive “Whoville” dinner. The City of Walnut will be hosting a Dinner with Santa from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 13. Dinner will include a delicious buffet-style meal with live entertainment, arts and crafts, games, and an opportunity to take a picture with our special guests, Santa and the Grinch. The cost is $12 per person and $8 per child. For more information please call (909) 598-5605.

And finally, to help you with your holiday shopping, why not stop by the Mini Marketplace to find that unique gift idea you have been looking for? Walnut’s Annual “Tis the Season Marketplace” has partnered up with the Winter Wonderland to make family time both easy and fun. The Mini Marketplace hours are from 4 to 9 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 13. There will be a variety of items such as handmade crafts, festive decorations and much more available for purchase. So, get in the spirit of the holidays and find a thoughtful gift for that special someone.

All events are located at the Walnut Senior Center, located at 21215 La Puente Road, in Walnut. To register for the events or for more information, call (909) 598-6200. Family 4-Packs and Dinner With Santa combo packs are available.

Walnut: Donor’s Gift Boosts Mt. SAC Pathways Program

By Mike Taylor

 

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College’s Pathways to Transfer program – a program designed to help students complete a degree and transfer to a four-year university – recently received a $100,000 donation from San Gabriel Valley Charitable Foundation philanthropist, Gary Chow.

The two-year $100,000 gift will help the Pathways program continue its work to provide an accelerated learning program to help students taking basic skills English and math courses succeed and keep them on track to transfer.

Through the program, students in basic skills courses take classes in cohort groups with the same instructor in an accelerated time frame. Three courses are fit into an intersession and semester so that students are fully engaged in the subject. The classes include the same instructor throughout the sequence to provide a sense of continuity, and each class has a tutor to provide additional help.

The courses are also linked to a learning community class, a counseling class, or a library class. The result has been a dramatic rise in completion rates, a decrease in English and math phobias, and increased student self-confidence.

“There is a sense of continuity and support in this program that enables basic skills students to succeed at higher levels and makes this program unique,” said Mt. SAC American Language Professor and Basic Skills Coordinator, Glenda Bro.

In the last year, persistence rates for Pathways students were 36 percent higher in math courses compared to non-Pathways students. In English, Pathways students performed 27 percent better than non-Pathways students.

Persistence rates measure whether students successfully complete the sequence of courses.

“These students aren’t just passing one class. They are committing to the program and completing the entire sequence of classes,” said Bro.

 

Walnut Gets Ready For The Holidays

STAFF REPORTS

holiday events in walnutWalnut – Now that Thanksgiving has come and gone, Christmas and the New Year will be here in the twinkling of an eye. The City of Walnut invites you to enjoy some special events to help get you into the holiday spirit and make the season merrier.

~Community Holiday Dinner & Dance Fri., Dec. 12; 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.; Walnut Senior Center $15 Pre-Sale/$18 At the Door; 18+ Years of Age This is your chance to dance the night away while celebrating the holidays. This fun evening will feature live music, a buffet dinner and door prizes. Space is limited, so please register early. For more information or to register, contact the Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200. Ask how to reserve a table. ~Walnut’s Winter Wonderland Sat., Dec. 13, 6 to 9 p.m.; Walnut Senior Center Parking Lot

$8 Per Person/$25 per Family of Four (immediate family) Featuring: Kiddie Snow Area, Arts & Crafts, Sled Rides, Snow Ball Battle Field, Games and Live Entertainment. For more information call (909) 598-5605.  ~Dinner With Santa Sat., Dec. 13; 5:30 to 7 p.m.; Walnut Senior Center

$12 Adults /$8 Children Join jolly old St. Nick for holiday entertainment, dinner by Mrs. Claus, and plenty of activities. Dinner with Santa and Winter Wonderland combo deals are available. ~‘Tis The Season Mini Marketplace Sat., Dec. 13; 4 to 9 p.m.; Walnut Senior Center Lobby

Looking for that last minute gift? This event will feature vendors selling handmade crafts, unique gifts and festive decorations.  ~Santa Makes House Calls This will be an occasion to remember! Imagine the look of merriment on your children’s faces as Santa magically appears at your door. Santa plans on being in Walnut beginning Fri., Dec. 5 through Dec. 24. Santa’s visiting hours are 6 to 8:30 p.m. A 20-minute visit in Walnut is $65, and $90 on Christmas Eve (Christmas Eve is for Walnut residents only). Please note that visits will only take place within City boundaries. Special arrangements may be made for visits to neighboring communities, large groups and other dates on a case-by-case basis for an additional fee. Reservations for Santa visits can be made in person at the Community Services Offices at 21701 Valley Blvd.

Walnut Repealing Restrictions For Sex Offenders

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – After being threatened with a lawsuit, the Walnut City Council recently approved the first reading of an ordinance that would make the City’s sex offender restrictions more closely aligned with California laws.

The first reading was approved unanimously by the City Council members during a Nov. 12 meeting.

According to a report by Senior Management Analyst, Rosalea Layman, a January decision by the 4th District Court of Appeals mandated that sex offender ordinances in Orange County cannot impose residency restrictions more stringently than those already imposed by the state’s law (also known as Jessica’s Law).

Jessica’s Law – passed as Proposition 63 in California in 2006 – increases penalties for violent and habitual sex offenders and child molesters, prohibits sex offenders from living within 2,000 feet of a school or park, requires a lifetime GPS monitoring of registered sex offenders, expands the definition of a sexually violent predator, and changes the current two year involuntary civil commitment for sexually violent predators to an indeterminate commitment, subject to annual review by the Director of Mental Health, and the subsequent ability of sexually violent predators to petition the courts for conditional release or unconditional discharge.

Walnut’s ordinance, No. 08-04, adhered to all the restriction’s of Jessica’s Law, as well as imposed restrictions including the number of sex offenders allowed residence in one house, the proximity of sex offenders to state licensed daycare facilities, and renting property – including hotels – to more than one sex offender.

Following the decision, the California Reform Sex Offender Laws’ (CA RSOL) non-profit group filed lawsuits with South Pasadena, Pomona, Westminster, Wasco, Taft and Carson, arguing that their ordinances violated constitutional rights.

In September, Mayor Nancy Tragarz was mailed a letter by CA RSOL, asking that City officials remove its City ordinances and instead be governed only by Jessica’s Law.

During the Council’s meeting, City Attorney Michael Montgomery described the state’s statutes as being “very extensive,” and that Walnut’s stricter ordinances could mean a costly lawsuit for the taxpayers.

“The problem that cities are running into is that the ones that do not amend their ordinances in compliance with the legislation are being sued and the plaintiffs are recovering attorney’s fees,” Montgomery said. “Locally, I know South Pasadena was sued … we agreed that the state law will apply and that we do not need to be sued for trying to adopt unenforceable regulations.”

Montgomery said that since the 4th District Court of Appeals’ decision, CA RSOL has been creating lawsuits all over California, and that it would save the Walnut residents a great deal of money to just adhere to state sex offender laws.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz agreed with Montgomery’s stance, stating that Jessica’s Law and the many sex offender restrictions that are already imposed should be well enough for Walnut residents.

“The state has a very extensive statute regarding this, so the state regulates it and we have to abide by laws poised by the state,” Tragarz said. “As the lowest jurisdiction, you always have to follow since the county supersedes us, the state supersedes us and the Feds are right on the top.”

Tragarz also mentioned that in addition to Jessica’s Law, Walnut residents should feel safe knowing that even with it’s own City ordinances going away, there are many restrictions in place that ensure the safety of children – including Megan’s Law – to locate where sex offenders live.

Following the first approval, the second hearing of the ordinance will be read on Dec. 10, and Tragarz estimates that its final approval will take place in January 2015.

Walnut Valley Women’s Club Tree Lighting

By Margaret Doyle

Walnut – On Sun., Dec. 7, at 6:30 p.m., the Walnut Valley Women’s Club invites the community to attend the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony to be held at Fire Station 61, on the corner of La Puente Road and Lemon Avenue.

As we celebrate our 50 years in federation this year, we have named Jeanne Burgh the honored tree lighter. Burgh is the Club’s longest resident in Walnut, and currently a member of the Walnut Valley Women’s Club.

Come and enjoy the holiday music of our little ones and teens, and meet Santa, who will arrive at 7 p.m.

At this 23rd year anniversary celebration, the Club is grateful to the community for its sponsorship of the Scholarship Tree of Lights.

 

Walnut: City Council Recap 11/12/14

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – The Walnut City Council met early at 5 p.m. on Wed., Nov. 12 for a special meeting, citing a lack of quorum for a regular meeting that would normally be held at 7 p.m.

To start, the council members approved the minutes for the Oct. 8 study session and City Council meetings before launching into the first reading of a new ordinance, No. 14-05.

The Ordinance, which had its first reading approved, repealed Ordinance No. 08-04 for the City’s municipal code concerning residency restrictions for sex offenders.

The repeal of the ordinance was brought about to protect the City from lawsuits, with City Attorney Michael Montgomery saying the inclusion of the State’s laws alone were extensive enough to cover any problems that might arise in Walnut.

On the City’s consent calendar, the Council approved Resolution No. 14-56 allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,085,225.13, a contract amendment for WRA Environmental Consultants to prepare a CEQA compliance document, and the cancellation of the City Council and Walnut Housing Authority meetings in observance of Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Without any other successor agency calendar items, the meeting adjourned at 5:20 p.m. with plans to hold the next Walnut City Council meeting on Wed., Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., in the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

STAFF REPORTS

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

23rd Annual Scholarship Tree of Lights Fundraiser

When: Now through Thurs., Nov. 20; and Dec. 4 – 5; noon to 4 p.m.

Where: Von’s Market, 350 N. Lemon Avenue, Walnut

Details: The Walnut Valley Women’s Club announces it will be selling lights for $5, and ornaments for $10. All proceeds go toward scholarships for 2014 graduates from Walnut and Nogales High Schools.

 

Operation Christmas Child Packing Party

When: Sat., Nov. 22, 4 to 8 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: Mt. Calvary will be filling 1,000 shoe boxes with items they have been collecting all year. Operation Christmas Child sends filled boxes around the world for Christmas, so children less fortunate can hear about the word of God and receive a gift on Christmas.

Contact: Ann Lovell, (909) 730-9057.

 

Inland Pacific Ballet’s, The Nutcracker

When: Nov. 29 through Dec. 27

Where: Arcadia Performing Arts Center (188 Campus Drive, Arcadia), Nov. 29/30, 2 p.m.; Lewis Family Playhouse (12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga), Dec. 6, 1 and 7 pm., Dec. 7, 1 p.m.; Pomona College’s Bridges Auditorium (450 North College Way, Claremont), Dec. 13/14/20/21; Fox Performing Arts Center (3801 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside), Dec 27, 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Details: The critically acclaimed Inland Pacific Ballet brings The Nutcracker story to life with dazzling sets, beautiful costumes, and nearly 100 dancers on stage – in four theatres! Tickets start at $38, with discounts available.

Contact: jpballet.org

 

Christmas Advent Services

When: Dec. 3 – Christmas Play/Preschool; Dec. 10 – Christmas Play/Children K-4th Grade; Dec. 17 Advent Services/Grades 5-8. All services are at 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Service 11 p.m. Christmas Day Service 10 a.m.

Where: Family Life Center, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

 

Mt. Calvary Annual Christmas Boutique

When: Thurs., Dec. 11 and Fri., Dec. 12.

Where: Family Life Center; Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: There will be crafters selling inexpensive items.

Contact: If you are interested in being a crafter, call Cathy Harden at (909) 861-3526.

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.

 

Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Where: 12598 Central Avenue, Unit 113, Chino, CA 91710.

Cost: Free

Contact: (909) 590-4183 or http://www.healingcirclecommunityacupuncture.com

 

Jack Newe’s Farmers Market sponsored by SGV Regional Chamber of Commerce

When: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Mt. San Antonio College Campus, Parking Lot B, 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut CA 91789

Cost: Free Admission/Parking

Features: Seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, fresh-popped Kettle Corn and grilled food plates.

Contact: (909) 869-0701

 

DB Community Garden Space

When: Ongoing; daylight hours.

Where: United Church of Christ, 2335 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar

Details: The Diamond Bar United Church of Christ is progressing on their Community Garden space, located behind the church. Residents interested in developing their own garden space, or helping with this project, are encouraged to visit the Labyrinth on the hilltop. This is also a wonderful location for reflection, and enjoying some peaceful moments in your day.

Contact: Susanne Potter, (909) 861-4735, or visit http://www.diamondbarucc.org.

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 11.15.14

weekly-news-11-15-14-coverThe Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link Nov15WeeklyAll to access the complete Nov. 15th, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Walnut: Mt. SAC Professors Featured In Nature Exhibit

BY MIKE TAYLOR

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College Art Gallery will feature the work of Mt. SAC professors in its “Second Nature” exhibit, which runs Nov. 6 through Dec. 4, at the Art Gallery. This exhibit is free and open to the public.

“Second Nature” is a mixed media exhibit featuring the work of Mt. SAC art, animation, and photography professors. Participating artists are Carolyn Alexander, Keith Batcheller, Ron Brown, Fatemeh Burnes, Thomas Butler, Cherie Benner Davis, Craig Deines, Dirk Hagner, Gail Jacobs, Joan Kahn, Shane Keena, Nikki Lewis, Melissa Macias, Ryan McIntosh, Stephanie Meredith, Kirk Pedersen, Jay Perez, Katie Queen, Susie Rubenstein, Steve Schenck, Natasha Shoro, Thomas Stubbs, Kathryn Stovall-Dennis, Dan Van Clapp, and Shari Wasson.

For more information, call the Art Gallery at (909) 274-4328.

Walnut: 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea

BY GAYLE PACHECO

teddy-bear-tea

(Photo Courtesy: Gayle Pacheco)

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation will be celebrating its 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea on Sat., Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Royal Vista Golf Club (located at 20055 E. Colima Road in Walnut).

This year’s Master of Ceremonies will be Walnut Valley Unified School District Superintendent, Dr. Robert Taylor. In addition, the Foundation will be honoring the District’s 2013-14 Teachers of the Year, as well as the Classified Employees of the Year.

As in the past, the highlight of the Tea will be a beautiful display of creatively dressed and decorated Teddy Bears. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to take one home by purchasing raffle tickets at the event.

All proceeds from the Tea will be used to fund classroom mini-grants throughout the Walnut Valley Unified School District.

Your support of this enjoyable and worthwhile event is appreciated as it will help teachers provide quality education for our students.

For further information on the event or to purchase tickets, call (626) 673-6010, email WalnutEdFoundation@gmail.com, and see the ad on page 6 of this publication.

The Weekly News Complete Edition 11.08.14

Weekly-news11.08.14The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link Nov8WeeklyAll to access the complete Nov. 8th, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Walnut: Suzanne 8th Graders Stand Tall At Summit

BY KELLI GILE

 

students-at-8th-grade-summit

: The 8th Grade Summit field activities focused on team building through physical activities. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Suzanne Middle School 8th graders took a giant step forward in breaking down the walls of stereotypes and learning about the people around them during the 6th Annual Summit.

The exciting day of activities included workshops, discussions, and a motivational speaker.

About 475 students were divided into three groups to rotate through breakout sessions in classrooms, the field, and the multi-purpose room. The topic of the day was “Understanding and Overcoming Stereotypes”

“Students were mixed up into groups so they could get to know peers that they might not otherwise meet,” explained counselor George Ann Cusson.

“The entire 8th Grade class participated in a day of reflection and opportunities of personal growth,” said teacher Marla Rickard.

Classroom sessions allowed students to look at the impact of judging people and to reflect on personal impacts on all the parties. Some of the activities included, If You Knew Me Well, the Tootsie Pop, and the Playing Card. The field activities focused on team building through physical activities; a favorite was the Human Pyramid.

During the Stand Tall challenge in the MPR, students learned more about themselves and each other. They analyzed the Iceberg Theory to find ways to drop below the water level to get to know their fellow classmates.

Rickard and Cusson created the event made possible with the help several teachers and staff members, PLUS and PALS service club members, and leadership students.

31 Walnut High School students and two graduates also come for the day to facilitate and lead all the breakout sessions.

“Without them the day would not be as successful. It’s a true team effort,” Rickard said.

“I think the kids are learning more about what they say to each other and to think before they speak,” said WHS senior and ASB president Phillip Silesky,

In one game, students asked their neighbor questions from a bowl. Some were serious: What would you do if you knew one of your friends was taking drugs? And some were funny: If you were invisible for one day what would be the first thing you would do?

“I probably wouldn’t even know I was invisible and just go to school!” one student replied.

After lunch, WHS graduate and motivational speaker, Dee Hankins, spoke to the class about goal setting, rising above any situation, and encouraged the students to live their life with purpose.