Category Archives: Walnut

Walnut: New Mt. SAC Child Development Center

BY MIKE TAYLOR

Walnut – The New Mt. SAC Child Development Center plays a dual role in education. Imagine a service that allows people to return to school, provides quality childcare, and serves as a hands-on training facility. That’s exactly what Mt. San Antonio College‘s new Child Development Center will offer the college community’s children, students, and families.

“Moving into a larger, modern facility allows us serve more children and more students,” said Mt. SAC Child Development Center Director, Tamika Addison, about the new center that opened to students last spring and open for childcare a month ago.

The 33,800-square foot, four-building complex houses child development classrooms, labs, observation spaces, and other required facilities to provide quality education and childcare for up to 162 children, infants to five years of age.

Mt. SAC celebrated the grand opening of the Child Development Center’s new complex (Building 70) with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Fri., Sept. 26. Assemblyman Curt Hagman, Senator Bob Huff, and college administrators were on hand for the ceremony.

“Childcare is sometimes the biggest barrier for people who want to return to college and continue their education,” said Addison, who added that over 200 families will use the childcare services they offer each semester.

But the center’s services are much more than babysitting or just watching the children.

“We are concerned with their early education as well. We work with the whole child,” said Addison. “We prepare the children to do well later in school in kindergarten and elementary school.”

The childcare program at Mt. SAC has received national accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, which serves as the program’s seal of approval as a quality childcare center. Each semester, there is a waiting list of about 150 for people who want to get their children into the program.

The center is also one of very few childcare centers that offer subsidized programs for families that qualify. Between 18 and 25 percent of most families’ income is spent on childcare. For some families, that subsidy, offered through three sources including the Department of Education, is a lifesaver. A subsidized food program offered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture is also available for children.

In another role, the center also serves as a training facility for more than 50 child development students every semester who serve as assistant teachers and received practical, hands-on training.

“We are training the area’s future childcare workers,” Addison said.

Once they finish the program, the students will fill childcare positions with programs like Head Start, and will be in demand because of the training they have received.

“The childcare field is constantly growing, and because of the need for trained childcare workers, childcare centers and programs like this are in demand,” said Addison.

According to Employment Development Department statistics, new job growth in the area of childcare is up 46 percent in California, and the childcare field is ranked in the top 50 fastest growing job fields in the state.

“The jobs are there. The question is, can we meet the demand,” she said.

The grand opening for the complex comes more than four years after its groundbreaking in June 2010. The $18.5-million complex was the first of the campus construction projects funded under the college’s $353 million Measure RR bond.

Walnut Family Festival

STAFF REPORTS

Walnut – Mark your calendars, because the popular City of Walnut Family Festival is coming to town on Sat., Oct 11. This is definitely an event not to be missed.

The Festival highlights a variety of businesses, service clubs, youth organizations, art, products and technology, all aimed at improving the quality of living in the City of Walnut. Part of the fun includes an Arts & Crafts Alley, Business Expo, Community Awareness booths, and a special Food Court featuring samples of cuisine from around the world.

 

Schedule of Events

  • 8 to 10 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast at Suzanne Park (sponsored by the Lions Club)
  • 10 a.m. to Noon – Parade along La Puente Road from Lemon Avenue to Suzanne Road
  • 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Kid’s Kamp at Suzanne Park
  • 11:30 a.m. to Noon – Opening Ceremonies at Suzanne Park
  • Noon to 6 p.m. – Entertainment at Suzanne Park

 

If you would like to participate as a vendor for products or services, or show your Walnut pride in the parade, applications and additional information are available online at the City of Walnut’s website at http://ci.walnut.ca.us.

 

Walnut: City Council Recap 09.24.14

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Members of the City Council commended Lou and Joanie Simonelli and named them the "Walnut Community Heroes" for their extensive volunteer work at Walnut High School and throughout the Community. Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Members of the City Council commended Lou and Joanie Simonelli and named them the “Walnut Community Heroes” for their extensive volunteer work at Walnut High School and throughout the Community. Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

 

Walnut – The Walnut City Council held its final meeting of the month on Sept. 24, and it included more complaints about Mt. San Antonio College’s proposed parking structure, as well as a proclamation for this year’s Community Heroes.

After the invocation, Mayor Nancy Tragarz and the other council members congratulated Lou and Joanie Simonelli, and named them “Walnut Community Heroes” for their extensive volunteer work for Walnut High School and throughout the community.

“Lou and Joanie Simonelli are well known in the Walnut community as dedicated volunteers,” Tragarz said.

Tragarz also said the Simonellis were chosen after more than130 Walnut High School students signed a petition to have them named this year’s community heroes- showing that their years of work continues to touch the lives of many.

Council Member, Tony Cartagena, thanked them for all their civic work over the years and said the Simonelli’s volunteerism is what makes Walnut great.

Following the proclamation, the City opened its public comment section and was once again met with concerns about Mt. San Antonio College’s proposed parking structure and concerns with Michael Montgomery being a less than affective City Attorney.

The council then went on to approve the City Council and Housing Authority minutes for the Aug. 27 meeting before discussing one of the items on the council’s consent calendar.

Tragarz pulled Resolution No. 14-48 for claims and demands in the amount of $923,023.81, citing that part of the payment to Montgomery was worded incorrectly and therefore should not be approved. Her motion failed and the item was approved for its entire amount.

The council then approved two additional consent calendar items to support the “War on Child Sex Trafficking” legislation, and the appointment of five individuals to the Youth Advisory Commission.

The council also approved all of its items concerning the claims and demands for the Successor Agency, in the amount of $3,000, adopting the Recognized Obligation Payment schedule for the period of Jan. 1, 2015 to June 30, 2015, and an approval for the administrative budget for the Walnut Improvement Agency for January to June 2015.

The City Council then adjourned with plans to meet at 7 p.m., Oct. 8, at the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

 

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 09.27.2014

Weekly 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 Sept27WeeklyAll  to access the complete Sept 27th, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Walnut: WV School Board Approves New Administrative Positions

BY KELLIE GILE

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees has approved the following administrative positions for the 2014-2015 school year. Congratulations to the following team members!

  1. Sergio Canal is the new Director of Pupil Personnel Services/Secondary Education in the Educational Services Division. Canal brings 18 years of expertise in the K-12 educational system. Most recently, he served as principal at Nogales High School. He has also been an elementary teacher, middle school assistant principal, and a high school administrator.

David Suarez was approved as Director of Maintenance, Operations, Transportation and Facilities.  Suarez comes highly recommended and brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the District. For the past five years, he supervised over 300 employees as director of maintenance at Foothill Transit. Suarez is also a retired Air Force E-7 Technical Sergeant and served our country for 20 years.

Jeanette Koh is the new principal at Quail Summit Elementary School. Koh brings 22 years of experience in education to her new post and she has been in Walnut Valley for the past 18 years.  Last year, Koh served as Assistant Principal at Suzanne Middle School.  Previously she was the Title I Coordinator at Vejar Elementary and a teacher at Maple Hill Elementary. Koh is the GLAD (Guided Language Acquisition Design) trainer for the district and was honored as the Outstanding Contributor to Literacy by The American Literacy Corporation. She spent 19 years as a teacher and earned the prestigious National Board Certification.

  1. Resma Chamadia-Byrne has been approved as the new principal at Castle Rock Elementary School. She brings 19 years of experience in several school districts including Pasadena Unified, Ontario-Montclair, and Corona-Norco. Chamadia-Byrne has taught several grade levels, served as a teacher on special assignment, and worked with various school programs and parent groups, and most recently served as assistant principal for one of the largest elementary schools in Southern California serving nearly 1,800 TK-6th Grade students on a multi-track calendar.

Jennifer Alcazar is the new Assistant Principal at Chaparral Middle School. For the last three years Alcazar has implemented technology with staff and students as a Technology Coach at Chaparral. Jen has been a science teacher for 19 years, with ten of those years at Chaparral. Alcazar has been implementing professional development for the past decade through the University of California, Irvine.

Amy Smith has been approved as the new Assistant Principal at Suzanne Middle School.  For the past four years, Smith was a teacher at Vejar Elementary School. She has taught at several schools during her career, including Quail Summit Elementary. Amy began her career as a middle school teacher and brings 14 years in education to her new post.

 

 

Walnut: Mt. SAC Art Gallery Revisits Exploration of Figurative Art

BY MIKE TAYLOR

 

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College Art Gallery will kick off its 2014-15 season with, “The Way of Flesh II,” which runs Sept. 18 through Oct. 16, at the Art Gallery. This exhibit is free and open to the public.

“The Way of Flesh II” displays the legacy of figurative art through the eyes and hands of three generations of contemporary artists, without geographical limitations. By contextualizing, juxtaposing, and challenging the limitations of traditional media, this exhibition offers the audience a complexity of inventive approaches to rendering the figure in the classical tradition. “The Way of Flesh II” picks up 20 years later, after the original “The Way of Flesh” exhibit at the Mt. SAC gallery in 1994.

Participating artists are Sigmund Abeles, Sharon Allicotti, Juliette Aristides, Steven Assael, Ron Brown, Dawn Butler, Thomas Butler, Wes Christensen,Domenic Cretara, Dirk Hagner, F. Scott Hess, Jared Linge, Pamela Diaz Martinez, Daina Mattis, John Nava, Odd Nerdrum, Ryan Schroeder, Robert Schultz,Luis E. Serrano, Betty Shelton, Richard Shelton, Cynthia Sitton, Thomas Stubbs, Ruth Weisberg, Jerome Witkin, and Peter Zokosky.

A special opening reception will be held Thurs., Sept. 18, 4:30 to 7 p.m., in the Art Gallery, Building 1B. An artists’ panel for the exhibit will be held Sun., Sept. 28, 1 to 4 p.m.  Gallery hours are Tuesdays through Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Tuesday nights, 5 to 7:30 p.m.

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

Walnut: WVUSD Seniors Named Semifinalists in Scholarship Program

BY KELLIE GILE

Walnut – 42 Diamond Bar and Walnut High School seniors have been named Semifinalists in the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program.  The nationwide pool of about 16,000 Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors in each state.

The following students have been recognized for demonstrating exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies:

Diamond Bar High School: Kyu Seo Ahn, Saakib Akbany, Athena Chen, Zhen H. Chen, Matthew Chiu, Justin J. Choi, Kali A. DeCambra, Sophia Y. Deng, Gregory J. Gunadi, Shyam F. Hassan, Jeannie C. Huang, Mandy Hung, Christopher L. Ivanoff, Rena Jiang, Catherine H. Larcheveque, Young D. Lin, Michelle Lyu, Alvin R. Ma, Alexander J. Song, Emily K. Wong, and Jordan C. Wong.

Walnut High School:  Ao Henry, Bobbie Chen, Jackson T. Deng, Joanna Hao, Jefferey S. Huang, Mindy A. Huang, Yu Ting Kuo, Andrew S. Lee, Xiang Li, Rhea Lin, Theresa T. Lo, Ethan Ma, Johnny Mok, Christopher Qian, Allison Y. Tang, Yun-Ta Tsai, Rachel Wang, Brian S. Weng, Manyue Zhang, Xin Zhang, and Ted N. Zhu.

About 1.4 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools across the country entered the 2015 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2013 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

These academically talented seniors will now go on to compete as Finalists for 7,600 scholarships worth about $33 million that will be offered next spring by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, private companies, colleges, and foundations.  Students submit detailed applications, recommendations, essays, and SAT scores.  All National Merit Scholarship winners are selected from the group of Finalists on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.

Congratulations students, parents, and teachers on this outstanding accomplishment!

 

 

Walnut: City Approves Park Property Abandonment For Aquatic Center

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

three oaks parkWalnut – After years of litigation and a lack of development, the Walnut City Council overruled objections to the abandonment of 16.49 acres of land in the Three Oaks community, with plans to use the gained funds for an aquatic park.

The original objections originated from representatives from Standard Pacific Homes – the previous owners of the property – who claimed that the abandonment violated the Quimby Act.

Michael Battaglia, Standard Pacific’s Vice President of Project Development, stated that under the Quimby Act, the City was obligated to give Standard Pacific Homes “at least 60 days notice … before vacating, leasing, selling or otherwise disposing of the dedicated property.” Furthermore, Battaglia stated that the Council had a misconception of phrasing used in a previous agreement with Standard Pacific Homes, with language stating that the lot was dedicated for community center purposes.

During the Aug. 13 City Council meeting, Mark Weiner, Community Development Director, said the abandonment was legal under the Municipal Park Abandonment Law since its original agreement for the lot was for a park or open space area, and that the area had not been improved.

To appraise the validity of the abandonment, the City hired special legal counsel, Barbara Leibold, an attorney with Leibold, McClendon and Mann of Laguna Hills, and mentioned that the previous owners have not threatened the City with a lawsuit should it approve the abandonment of the lot.

“[Standard Pacific Homes] does have a different opinion, but it’s our position that the dedication falls within what we call the Municipal Park Abandonment Law and that the abandonment of the park purpose is lawful, and we followed the lawful procedural steps,” said Leibold.

According to Leibold, the Municipal Park Abandonment Law is old, but straight forward in its wording that, “Any property that is dedicated for park or open space purposes can be abandoned by the act of a City Council if that park has not been improved and used for park purposes and was dedicated for that purpose.”

Leibold also said the plan conforms to the City’s general plan, adhering to safety standards considering that a community center would cause unsafe traffic increases because of the singular exit in the Three Oaks community.

The abandonment and sale of the property was met with disappointment from some residents, including Richard Sorenzky, who said that a lot of planning done by the City and various architects went to waste.

“I’m very saddened that the City is trying to sell it and move on,” Sorenzky said. “I think it’s a loss to the residents of the City in general.”

Sorenzky said the abandoned land offers some of the best scenic views of the City and San Gabriel Mountains, and that it would be wise for the City to retain several acres to develop a neighborhood park to take advantage of the landscape’s beauty.

However, the abandonment plans are not seen as a total loss to some, since the funds gained from the sale are planned to go toward building an aquatic park.

The “Walnut Aquatic Park” group’s primary goal is to push the City to establish a community pool and community center for the enjoyment of all residents.

Claudine Stines, member of the group, said that she had more than 1,000 residents give their support for the project during the 2013 Walnut Family Festival, stating that the need for a community pool is paramount since residents are limited to using Mt. San Antonio College and Walnut High School’s pool.

Stines said she sees the abandonment of the lot and its upcoming bids for sale as a positive step toward constructing the aquatic park, and that residents should take the resolution as a victory for development.

“I know we have a long way to go; we waited a long time for this,” Stines said. “[The abandonment] is one more small step, getting us closer to where we’re going to have the aquatic center.”

Schools Remember 9/11

By KELLI GILE

 

Diamond Bar – Last week, Walnut Valley schools marked the 13th Anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy.

Photo Caption: Walnut High students placed nearly 3,000 flags in front of the campus to mark the anniversary of 9/11. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Photo Caption: Walnut High students placed nearly 3,000 flags in front of the campus to mark the anniversary of 9/11.
(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Chaparral Middle School band, orchestra, and choir performed patriotic songs to honor and remember those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2011.

“We want to make sure that we never forget what happened 13 years ago on this day,” said Principal Ron Thibodeaux.

The 8th Grade band, directed by Leslie Schroerlucke, performed the National Anthem and the Battle Hymn of the Republic. The 8th grade Orchestra played God Bless America and Honor and Glory.

“Honor and Glory was written as a dedication to all of the first responders, fire fighters and police officers,” conductor Greg Rochford said.

Social studies teacher Nancy Miles read the Presidential Proclamation for Patriot Day. She challenged the Chaparral students to perform service for others in the coming weeks.

“It’s as simple as writing a thank you note to a first responder, donating to a charity, or holding the door open for someone. How will you mark this day? What will you do for service?” she said.

The program concluded with the choir performance of Blowing in the Wind and Let It Be.

“These songs reflect on war and peace,” said director Richard Langham.

At Walnut High School, a score of students placed nearly 3,000 American flags on the front lawn of the campus during lunch and after school on September 10.

The event was organized by the Teen Republicans Club, who had support from the Young Democrats Club, Key Club, Sophomore Class Cabinet, and numerous volunteers.

 

SGV: Medical Assistant Programs Offered At Diamond Bar And Walnut High Schools

BY CANDICE MARSANO

 

SGV – In collaboration with the Walnut Valley Unified School District, the East San Gabriel Valley Regional Occupational Program and Technical Center just opened two new Instructional Service Centers for aspiring Medical Assistants.  The class is a pathway from high school to post-secondary offered as part of the Medical Programs at Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools, and is also open to community residents.

The ESGVROP Technical Center, which bases its post-secondary programs out of its West Covina location, opened the Certified Medical Assistant program at the Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools earlier this year. The program will allow graduating high school students and community residents the opportunity to transition into the program seamlessly throughout the year through its open enrollment.  The program allows students to begin their career in the medical field, gain valuable work experience, and continue to pursue their education at the university level.

With support from Walnut Unified officials, ESGVROP Technical Center set up the Medical Assisting program at the high schools to help students transition into a fully-accredited college-level vocational program.  The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), which qualifies students to compete for a national exam, the AAMA.  The AAMA Certification is highly desired by employers in the medical field.  It’s a perfect program with a high demand choice.  For information on enrolling into the program, call (626) 472-5101.

 

Walnut City Council Recap Sept 10, 2014

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – The City of Walnut held their regular City Council meeting on Wed., Sept. 10. Mayor Nancy Tragarz started off the meeting by awarding 20/20 Vision Optometry owner, Dr. Jonathan Joe, with the 2014 Business of the Quarter recognition, thanking him for 17 years of service to the City. Joe, who has performed chart work on more than 10,000 patients during his time in Walnut, said he was happy and honored to receive the award and thanked the Council for the recognition.

Dr. Jonathan Joe of 20/20 Optometry is honored by the council. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Dr. Jonathan Joe of 20/20 Optometry is honored by the council. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

The String and Bamboo Music group, led by Bin He, was also recognized for their long-standing work in the City as representatives of both music and culture.

Public comment had more discussion pertaining to Mt. SAC’s parking structure, with residents asking the Council to limit construction vehicles around Mountaineer Road, and to consider scheduling its meetings around the Mt. SAC board of trustees meetings.

Following public comment, the Council opened up the public hearing segment for one item, the Metrolink Subsidy Program. The resolution, which was unanimously passed, established the Metrolink subsidy at $32 per pass and a maximum of 300 passes per month to residents, and appropriated $50,400 from the Proposition C Fund balance to make the resolution possible in order to encourage residents to take public transportation to cut down on pollution.

The Council then approved the only item on the consent calendar pertaining to Resolution No. 14-47 for the claims and demands of the City in the amount of $541,692.82.

Council discussions then started with a debate among its members concerning the affirmation, modification or termination of City Attorney Michael Montgomery’s contract with the City. City Manager, Robert Wishner, laid out the options to the council members and noted that if reaffirmed, Montgomery’s contract would be set for two years, which would then end with his retirement. Councilwoman Su offered her opinion, stating that while she thought that Montgomery did make some mistakes during his time as City Attorney, she believed that his experience was a boon for Walnut based on his 33 years working for the City.

“Sometimes we have to wait and see what will be the best for us,” Su said.

Councilmember, Tony Cartagena, said the City has been blessed with Montgomery’s expertise, stating that he saved the City millions of dollars over the years.

Tragarz said while Montgomery has been useful to the City in the past, his lack of malpractice insurance poses possible threats, leaving the City open to damages if poor legal advice is given. She then mentioned that Montgomery has not been covered by malpractice insurance for the last six years and had not notified the Council of his lack of coverage.

Furthermore, Tragarz denied allegations that have been thrown around by unknown parties that she was “after (Montgomery’s) job.” She went on to say that she was making sure that the City Attorney adhered to laws and practices that govern all city attorneys and that not doing so could cause monetary damage to the residents of Walnut.

“I am not trying to be mean, I am not trying to be cruel,” Tragarz said. “All I’m trying to do is look out for the City’s best interest. Our duty is not to Montgomery, it’s to the citizens.”

By 9 p.m., Su excused herself, citing a family emergency concerning her mother.

Following public comments on the matter, Council member Bob Pacheco called to reaffirm the City Attorney’s contract, but the vote failed 2-2, with Ching and Tragarz dissenting. The Council then moved to table the discussion item for a later council meeting, but it failed with another 2-2 vote.

Council then passed on the item, after all three options to reaffirm, terminate or modify Montgomery’s contract were exhausted.

The City Council then adjourned with plans to meet at 7 p.m., Sept. 27, at the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Walnut: Mora Gets 20 Years For Murder

STAFF REPORTS

mora-home

The Mora home in Walnut, scene of a gruesome murder.

Walnut – Socorro Mora, 46, who was convicted of the brutal stabbing death of her husband, as well as the family dog, has received her sentence in Pomona Superior Court. On Tues., Sept. 9, Mora was condemned to 20 years in state prison.

Socorro and George Mora had been married since 1993, but had become estranged in 2011. That September, Socorro moved out of the home on the 21600 block of Brookside Court in Walnut that the couple shared with their four children, and then later returned to ransack the house and stab and kill the family dog, Snowflake.

George Mora, 47 at the time, was awarded custody of the children and obtained a restraining order against his wife, but to no avail. Socorro returned to the home on Oct. 19, 2011, and stabbed her husband over 30 times with multiple weapons. She called police and was found in the front yard with 22 stab wounds – some life threatening – claiming self defense. George was found dead, inside the home.

The forensic investigation later showed that Socorro’s wounds were all self-inflicted, according to court documents. Socorro was initially hospitalized, and then arrested several days later.

Socorro’s trail began in Pomona on January 28, and she entered a not-guilty plea. On May 12, a jury found Socorro guilty of second-degree murder, animal cruelty, and corporal injury of a spouse. She has remained in jail since her preliminary arrest, and will continue to do so long into the future.

 

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 09.06.14

The Weekly 09.06.14

 

The 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 Sept6WeeklyAll to access the complete Sept 6th issue in pdf format.

Walnut Valley Water District Adopts Mandatory Conservation

WALNUT VALLEY WATER DISTRICT

lake-oroville-reservoir

Lake Oroville reservoir in Northern California, seen here in early 2014, is at 30% of capacity. (Photo Courtesy: California Department of Water Resources)

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Water District Board of Directors voted at their August 18 meeting to adopt a Stage 1 Water Supply Shortage. This action comes in response to the state’s ongoing drought and the recently enacted emergency regulations by the State Water Resources Control Board establishing statewide mandatory water use restrictions. These enhanced restrictions become effective August 28. Stage 1 restrictions are intended to further curtail outdoor water use which accounts for more than one half of a typical family’s monthly usage.

Adoption of the mandatory conservation measures are a result of the serious statewide drought impacting the entire State of California. Governor Jerry Brown declared a drought-related ‘State of Emergency’ in January of 2014. Since that time, California has experienced one of the driest snowpack and fourth lowest runoff in 100 years. As a result, mandatory water conservation measures are being implemented throughout the state. Some of the conservation measures in the Stage 1 include:

Limits on Watering Hours: watering your lawn or landscaping is prohibited between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M.

  • Obligation to Fix Leaks, Breaks, or Malfunctions: All leaks, breaks, or other malfunctions in the water user’s plumbing or distribution system must be repaired within five (5) days.
  • No Excessive Water Flow or Runoff: Watering any landscaped area cannot cause excessive water flow or runoff onto the sidewalk or street.
  • No Washing Down Hard or Paved Surfaces: Washing down hard or paved surfaces, such as sidewalks or driveways, is prohibited.
  • Limits on Washing Vehicles: Using a hose to wash a vehicle is prohibited, except by use of a hand-held hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
  • Drinking Water Served Upon Request Only: Eating or drinking establishments, including but not limited to a restaurant, hotel, cafe, cafeteria, bar, or other public places, will not provide drinking water to any person unless expressly requested.
  • Option to Decline Daily Linen Services at Commercial Lodging Establishments: Hotels, motels, and other commercial lodging establishments are encouraged to provide customers the option of not having towels and linen laundered daily.
Lake Oroville reservoir 2011 and 2014

Lake Oroville reservoir, seen here in 2011 (top) and in 2014 (bottom). The reservoir is one of the largest in California. (Photo Courtesy: California Department of Water Resources)

In 2009, the District adopted Ordinance No. 06-09-07, An Ordinance of the WVWD to Establish Water Use Efficiency Requirements and Water Supply Shortage Stages, to assist in managing our water supply. The ordinance has four stages, each with more progressively restrictive uses of water. The stages are enacted based on both short- and long-term water supplies and Board approval. WVWD for many years has encouraged voluntary conservation by keeping in effect since 2009 “Permanent Water Use Efficiency Requirements” that contained very similar restrictions as Stage 1 in preventing water waste.

When asked about the Board decision to adopt the mandatory water-saving measures, Board President, Barbara Carrera, noted, “Our District customers have done an excellent job using water wisely over the years. In light of the state’s current drought situation and the State Board’s recent adoption of the emergency conservation regulations, we must all take the extra step to save even more.” President Carrera went on to state that, “The District’s Board of Directors genuinely appreciates the efforts of all our customers to work together and save water wherever possible. Everyone working together to save water can make a very big difference in conserving our precious water supplies.”

The District’s customers for many years have reduced local water usage — we are asking for everyone to do a little more.

For questions about the new mandatory conservation measures or to learn more ways to save water, visit the District’s website at wvwd.com, or call customer service at (909) 595-1268.

Walnut Valley: Best High Schools In America

 BY KELLI GILE

 

Diamond bar seniors

Diamond Bar High School Class of 2014 Super Star Seniors Steven Gomez, Claire Huang, Jane Wu, and Vrajesh Shah. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

 

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) is pleased to announce that both Diamond Bar and Walnut high schools have been ranked in the top 100 of all high schools in America, by the Daily Beast publication.

Diamond Bar High School ranked #54 overall in the nation, and #7 in California. They also scored in the top 100 in specific categories of Rigor, Graduation Rates, and ACT/SAT scores.

Walnut High School ranked #97 overall in the nation and #11 in California.  They also scored in the top 100 in the specific category of Rigor.

This is a remarkable achievement when considering it’s estimated that there are more than 30,000 public and private high schools across the country. It also appears that WVUSD is the only school district in California with two high schools in the top 100 in the nation.

“This is an incredible achievement for our schools and entire community,” Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor stated. “It is a reflection of the relentless commitment to student achievement on behalf of our Board of Trustees, staff, students, parents, and community.  And, to be what appears as the only school district in California with two high schools ranked in the top 100 nationally is a tribute to the “Kids First” attitude throughout our K-12 community.”

Principals Catherine Real at Diamond Bar High, and Jeff Jordan at Walnut High, received notification of the prestigious national recognition on Wed., Aug. 27.

“Our ranking is a result of our hard work with our students, our excellent staff, our supportive community, and the commitment to responsibly increase access to rigorous courses to a greater number of students,” Real said.

“I am so proud of our Walnut High staff for this accomplishment. It definitely reflects the hard work and dedication that takes place on this campus.  Our school has always taken a team approach to do what is best for our students. Both certificated and classified staffs take pride to provide great service to our students,” Jordan said.

The Daily Beast publication uses six indicators taken from school surveys to compare public high schools in the United States, with graduation and college acceptance rates weighed most heavily. Other criteria included college-level courses and exams, percentage of students with free or reduced lunch, and SAT and ACT scores.  The full results can be viewed at http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/08/27/america-s-top-high-schools.html.

 

 

Diamond Bar/Walnut: Day At The Fair

Staff Reports

 

Diamond Bar/Walnut – The Los Angeles County Fair is back for another year, open from Aug. 29 through Sept. 28. Residents of Diamond Bar and Walnut can celebrate their city spirit by visiting the Fair on their special Community Day, along with receiving an admission discount.

‘Diamond Bar Day’ is Thurs., Sept. 11 and ‘Walnut Day’ is Fri., Sept. 26. Residents can purchase tickets for just $5 for their city’s day by presenting a coupon located on city websites, or by purchasing ticketing online at www.lacountyfair.com/buytickets. For Diamond Bar residents, the promotion code is ‘diamond bar’. For Walnut residents, the online promotion code is ‘walnut’.

There are special events surrounding these Community Days at the Fair, including a parade, high school marching band competition, Community Hero Volunteer Award presentations and entertainment by community-based groups.

The Diamond Bar Day ticket proceeds will even benefit the Big Yellow Bus program, which pays for bus transportation for Diamond Bar students to attend the fair as part of a school-sponsored fieldtrip, according to the City of Diamond Bar website.

The LA County Fair is displaying a variety of attractions, including a carnival, animal farm, a Chinese lantern display, a hall of heroes, and even a brand new nightclub called, Grinding Gears. And don’t forget world-famous “Fair Food.”   There is a wide variety for everyone, along with an unwritten law that you must enjoy something on a stick. There are also wine, spirits and a beer marketplace, presented by Groupon.

Make sure to check out the LA County Fair Concert Series with the following performances:

  • 30: Flip Fest Monster Truck and Motocross stunt Spectacular
  • 31: Charlie Wilson
  • 1: David Nail and Easton Corbin with special guest, Jamie Lynn Spears
  • 4: Neon Trees with special guest, Cher Lloyd
  • 5: WAR
  • 6: Pentatonix with special guest The Filharmonic
  • 7: Roberto Tapia and Irene Davi
  • 10: Third Day and MercyMe
  • 11: Boyz II Men with Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds and Andy Allo
  • 12: Styx
  • 13: R5 with special guest, Ryland Lynch
  • 14: Jennifer Nettles with special guest Brandy Clark
  • 17: Cheap Trick and Kansas
  • 18: George Benson and Chaka Khan
  • 19: The Manhattans with special guests The Brothers Johnson and Lenny Williams
  • 20: Martina McBride with special guest Dustin Lynch
  • 21: Ramon Ayala y sus Bravos del Norte
  • 24: Jason Derulo with special guest Luke Christopher
  • 25: Monster Truck Mayhem featuring Robosaurus
  • 26: Heart
  • 27: LL Cool J featuring DJ Z-trip with special guest Salt-N-Pepa
  • 28: Earth, Wind, and Fire

The LA County Fair is located at 1101 W. McKinley Avenue, in Pomona. You can purchase concert tickets at http://www.ticketmaster.com. For more information about the LA County Fair, visit http://www.lacountyfair.com.

Walnut: Council Corner Aug 27th Recap

By RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

walnut-city-council

Walnut City Council (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Walnut – After months of talk and public outrage, the Walnut City Council met on Aug. 27 to approve a letter urging Mt. San Antonio College to build its forthcoming parking structure at a location that would not burden the adjacent housing tracts.

After approving the minutes for the Aug. 13 meeting, council members opened a public hearing for Resolution No. 14-43, which outlined the City’s overruling objections to the abandonment of property for a park, and to order the park abandoned and the property sold.

The property, located near the Three Oaks neighborhood, was also the subject of some debate with some residents stating that the loss of the property would be a mistake on the City’s behalf. Claudia Stein, Three Oaks resident, said she was disappointed that the property has gone unused for ten years and that she and other residents do not want a community center or aquatic center to be constructed on the property.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz cleared up the public’s misconceptions by stating that the property near the Three Oaks area would not be used for an aquatic center, but that the funds gained from selling the property would go toward paying for the City’s proposed aquatic center.

The Council then approved the resolution, ordering that the park be abandoned and sold.

For the Council consent calendar, Tragarz pulled the resolution for claims and demands in the amount of $680,150.34, citing waiver #146594 for the payment of the City Attorney, Michael Montgomery.

The motion failed on a 2-3 vote, with council members Pacheco, Su and Cartagena giving dissenting votes. The Council came back to the item and voted to approve the resolution.

The Council then opened the discussion for the Mt. SAC parking structure, with council members stating their opposition for the structure’s placement by sending a declaration to various members of state government.

Councilmember, Eric Ching, urged the residents and other council members to create a dialogue to discuss the future of Mt. SAC, since the campus’ growth will eventually affect the City at large.

Residents echoed Ching’s concerns, stating that independent environmental impact reports need to be completed to measure how much of an impact the traffic has on the quality of air in the area. After the discussions, the Council approved the motion and the decision was met with applause from the attendees.

The Council then approved the appointment of eight high school students for the youth advisory commission and the approval of specification and authorization to advertise and receive formal bids for installation of CalSense controllers and related equipment.

For the Council discussion item, the council members discussed the consideration of City Attorney Montgomery’s contract with multiple interruptions starting with Pacheco claiming that Tragarz was out of order over her questions concerning the attorney’s contract being specified under a corporation.

However, Tragarz stated that the Michael B. Montgomery Law Corporation was dissolved eight years previous, and therefore could not operate and do business.

City Manager, Robert M. Wishner, recommended that the City seek a third party attorney to consider the validity of Montgomery’s contract. However, the vote to find a third party attorney did not pass, leaving the Council unsure on how to proceed with the contract.

The City Council then adjourned with plans to meet Sept. 10, at 7 p.m., in the council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Walnut Valley Staff Kicks-Off New School Year

BY KELLI GILE

 

Boy Scout Troop 777 led the opening flag ceremony. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Boy Scout Troop 777 led the opening flag ceremony. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District staff members ushered in the 2014-2015 school year during an annual Welcome Back event, held August 13.

About 1,000 certificated and classified employees had a chance to gather together after the summer break during the breakfast and opening program held at Calvary Chapel in Diamond Bar.

The band Symptom, from Diamond Bar High’s School of Rock, entertained the crowd during the outdoor continental breakfast. The Walnut High pep band kicked off the program with a flag ceremony led by Diamond Bar Boy Scout Troop 777, and the national anthem was performed the DBHS Marquis Show Choir.

The program included recognitions of Long-Service Employees, Teachers of the Year, and Cornerstone Award recipients.

Gale Taylor, the 2013 Classified Employee of the Year, and Sherry Robertson, the 2013-2014 District Teacher of the Year, took the stage to deliver messages to their peers.

“I am totally thrilled to be standing here among all of you who are people that make excellence a habit. We are all dedicated to creating an environment that promotes student success,” said Taylor, a Library Media Technician at South Pointe Middle School.

“We see hundreds of students, thousands over the years. And they need us to educate them and to guide them. What a huge responsibility, but what a huge honor. This is why we do our job,” said Sherry Robertson, a Humanities teacher at Chaparral Middle School.

A trio of 2013 Diamond Bar High graduates, Monique Magpayo, Carmen McCarrel and Tayler Lanning performed, “Brave.”

“What a wonderful way to kick-off the school year,” Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor said during his keynote address.

“Something I’ve learned the last year is the ‘Kids First’ philosophy that we have here in Walnut Valley. It has become so evident to me for the foundation of why our District has been and will continue to be successful. I see it in your classrooms, I see it in the offices, I see it on the playing fields. Whatever role you have in the District, I truly appreciate your commitment to the ‘Kids First’ philosophy.”

 

 

Walnut: A Great Start In Walnut Valley

BY KELLI GILE

 

Westhoff Elementary teachers and staff members are ready for the new school year. Westhoff is celebrating its 2014 Distinguished School Award – the third for the school. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Westhoff Elementary teachers and staff members are ready for the new school year. Westhoff is celebrating its 2014 Distinguished School Award – the third for the school. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – It’s back-to-school time in the Walnut Valley Unified School District. Nearly 14,600 students began classes in the 15 campuses on Mon., Aug. 18.

“We had a great first day,” said Walnut High School Principal Jeff Jordan. ”Students and staff were excited to be back. There was an upbeat attitude all day.”

The teens happily chatted at break time, stopped by their lockers, and checked schedules before dashing off to their next class.

Maple Hill Elementary in Diamond Bar opened doors to its completely modernized campus in Diamond Bar. Everyone was relocated to portable buildings during the $5.6 million construction project last year. This was the first chance for students and their families to see the new school.

“We made it!” exclaimed Principal Nancy Stingley. “Everybody’s here and inside, everybody’s happy, and everybody’s smiling.”

Fourth graders Gabrielle Zabresky, Valentina Yonemoto, Carlie Law and Ella Liu were excited to see their new classrooms before the school bell rang. What do they like best about school?

“We love math – it’s fun!” the girls exclaimed.

Fifth grade teacher Shirley Conner greeted students who were lined up before the 8 a.m. school bell rang.

“Welcome back to school. It’s beautiful inside!” she said

“It’s such a gift to us,” beamed fourth grade teacher Tami Berry. “Everything’s new and wonderful, and different. As we had time to get to know the school, you all will have time to get to know the school,” she told her students. “It’s going to be a very fun place to learn,” Berry added.

The school has a brand-new interior design, multipurpose room and exterior landscaping.  Classrooms feature state-of-the-art technology, skylights and generous storage cabinets. Six hundred new desks and chairs were purchased for the campus.

“It’s big and roomy, everything is clean and new, and up-to-date technologically,” said kindergarten teacher Lisa Esse, who has been at the school for 20 years.

“I look forward to another great school year at Suzanne Middle School,” said Principal Les Ojeda.  “We have a great number of returning students and new students that seem incredibly intelligent, enthusiastic and eager to learn.”

Westhoff Elementary celebrated the first day of school with balloons, chalk greetings, posters, music and a staff with welcoming smiles.

“It’s going to be a great school year!” said Principal Denise Rendon.

 

Walnut: Council Corner Aug 13, 2014

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – Walnut’s City Council met on Aug. 13 for its first regular meeting of the month, which saw a long-awaited public discussion about Mt. SAC’s traffic congestion.

Councilmember, Eric Ching, was absent, as he was on vacation during the time of the meeting.

After starting the meeting with an invocation given by High Priest Felix Michael from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the council moved to approve the minutes for council’s July 23 meeting.

The council then moved to approve its three public hearing items, including Resolution No. 14-37 for the City’s congestion management program; Resolution No.14-41 for an amendment to Specific Plan 02-2004 for the mixed use senior housing at 780 and 808 Francesca Drive; and Resolution No. 14-38 for a conditional use permit for DiMiYa HeadStart Learning Center at 352 N. Lemon Avenue.

Derrick Womble, Senior Management Analyst, gave the staff report for the congestion management program which outlined the City’s development activity and transportation improvements.

Councilmember, Bob Pacheco, asked if Mt. SAC’s new parking structure – which has recently come under fire with concerns of traffic congestion – was exempt from the City’s congestion management program. Tom Weiner, Director of Community Development, stated that the classroom and office buildings were taken into account for the program because they house people, while the parking structure does not, since it is considered a parking lot. Weiner said the adoption of the program would be a boon for the City, since they would receive funds from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority going toward repairing City streets.

Next was the amendment for the proposed mixed use senior housing at 780 and 808 Francesca Drive, with Weiner stating that the amendments up for discussion were the reduction of units from 86 to 71, a reduction of commercial square footage, minor design changes, and reduction of affordable units.

When the public hearing opened up, Brion Costa, for the Francesca Projects, said the construction was a long time coming and that he was grateful that with the City’s help, the project is closing in on a groundbreaking date.

The final item for public hearing was the conditional use permit for DiMiYa HeadStart Learning Center, which was originally denied based on an unsafe loading and unloading situation.

Based on the need for safety, the council approved the item based on the condition that DiMiYa create an additional two parking spots in front of the store for loading and unloading passengers.

After the public hearing, the council went onto approve the items on the consent calendar for Resolution No. 14-39 for claims and demands in the amount of $502,701.41; Resolution No. 14-42 for supporting water conservation; approval of a contract with Diversified Transportation for the Walnut Way Dial-A-Cab program; professional services agreements for CDBG Administrative Services and housing rehabilitation services; appropriation of $8,130 for Cal-Recycle Beverage Recycling Grant funds; and waiver of parking restrictions on La Puente Road between Pierre Road and Gartel Drive for the 2014-15 school year for Walnut High School and Suzanne Middle School events.

The council then adopted Resolution No.14-40 for claims and demands in the amount of $125,000 for the City of Walnut as Successor Agency.

As part of council discussions, members then spoke at length about Mt. SAC’s parking structure construction and what to do about the situation to alleviate the concerns of residents. Members of council voiced their concerns about the safety of the public concerning Mt. SAC’s growing size and the impact it has on traffic congestion for residents in the area, with some residents calling out council to fight back against Mt. SAC’s construction decisions.

The discussion came after several meetings between various council members and Mt. SAC’s administration, in order to create a dialogue to settle disputes. However some residents were still upset about the state of traffic in the area and that the time for action was already past due.

After the discussion, the council members decided to draft a resolution with the input of residents on the traffic problem and go back to City Council for approval during its next meeting. After the approval of the resolution, the council would also send a letter on the City’s stance to local representatives in the State of California Legislature and the State of California Community Colleges Chancellor’s office.

The City Council then adjourned, with plans to meet Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. at the council chambers at 21201La Puente Road.