The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link The Weekly News 8.23.14 to access the complete Aug 23-29 issue in pdf format.
Category Archives: Walnut
Walnut: Elementary to Host Teacher from China
BY KELLI GILE
: Teacher Yang Jing will teach Chinese during the 2014-2015 school year through a fellowship awarded by the U.S. Department of State (shown with Principal Janet Green). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Walnut – Walnut Elementary School welcomes, Yang Jing, who will teach Chinese in the school’s FLES (Foreign Language in Elementary School) program during the 2014-2015 school year.
Jing has been awarded a fellowship from the U.S. Department of State to participate in the 2014 Teachers of Critical Language Program (TCLP). Since 2006, TCLP has provided fellowships to over 190 primary and secondary school teachers of English, from Egypt and China, to teach in K-12 schools throughout the United States.
Jing arrived in Los Angeles for the very first time on Thurs. August 7, accompanied by her mentor Krystin Wong. They had spent the previous few days together in Washington, D.C. at TCLP training. She was greeted at the airport by her new Principal, Janet Green, and Community Liaison, Jenny Kwan-Hata.
“Since Jing teaches English in Beijing, it was easy to communicate with her immediately. We have been looking forward to meeting her for months and are amazed at the instant connections we had with her,” said Green.
Walnut Elementary participated in a nation-wide competition in order to host a TCLP teacher. Jing is one of a total of 22 teachers who have been selected from Egypt and China for participation in TCLP.
Jing is currently staying with Krystin Wong who teaches in the school’s Dual Language Immersion Program. She will then live with different families throughout the year in order to experience a variety of American lifestyles.
Jing learned all the names of her fellow teachers before meeting them at a welcome party just two days after she arrived.
Jing is excited to begin teaching Chinese to students not enrolled in the Dual Language Immersion Program when school begins on August 18. She will teach kindergarten through 3rd graders, provide Mandarin intervention for DLI students, and team teach using the new Common Core State Standards. She will also have Mandarin clubs for students in grades 4 and 5.
In addition to teaching their native languages, TCLP exchange teachers expand the understanding of the world in their U.S. host communities by establishing strong ties with teachers, students, parents and members of community, and by sharing information about their home countries and cultures.
Walnut: Timberline Community Speaks Up Against Mt. SAC
BY RAYMOND MENDOZA
Current Parking Lot at Mt. SAC (Photo Courtesy: Robert Mendoza)
Walnut – While a population increase at Mt. San Antonio College might be seen as a good idea for some, residents of the Timberline Community just north of the campus are voicing their wishes to limit enrollment- claiming that the population has become so large that it is causing high amounts of traffic, collisions, and crime in the City.
Resident complaints are stemming from the campus’ plan to build a three-level parking structure on the north side of campus, saying that congestion is so bad on Grand Avenue and Mountaineer Road that the structure would be better suited for a spot on W. Temple Avenue.
In recent months, various residents of the Timberline Community have flocked to Walnut City Council meetings to ask for the aide of the City in stopping Mt. SAC’s growth and to move the parking structure away from the Timberline Communities.
Timberline resident, Linda Hiti, called Mt. SAC a “parasite” because they are using the city’s resources and not paying their fair share. “In 2009, they cancelled a budgeted sheriff item, and now they [Mt. SAC] are congesting our streets and the Sheriff is sometimes responding up to four times in one day,” she said.
“They need to relocate the parking structure to the south side of Temple,” Hiti said. “They need to cap their enrollment at 60,000 and if they want to expand their enrollment they have to go to satellite locations or online classes.”
Hiti said the Walnut City Council is responsible for the safety and well-being of the City’s residents and that the traffic congestion from Mt. SAC will cause massive problems during an emergency.
During the July 23 City Council meeting, Timberline resident, Mansfield Collins, read aloud a document urging council members to stop Mt. SAC’s actions, stating that the college failed to perform an emergency evacuation plan for the residents of the Timberline Community and health survey for fumes caused by student transportation.
Mike Taylor, Public Information Officer for Mt. SAC, said that enrollment numbers aren’t being portrayed correctly since the 60,000 student total is for the complete academic year, and not indicative of how many students are on campus at one time or even during a semester. Furthermore, Taylor said overpopulation isn’t on the minds of administration since the school saw a 6.6 percent drop in enrollment from previous years. For the fall 2014 semester, Taylor said the enrollment stands at 26,656.
Taylor said he hopes the new parking structure will make an impact on the parking situation, since its current 8,000 parking spaces will be increased to more than 10,000. And he added that the college has always had the best interest of the community in mind since the institution always aims to bring affordable and excellent education to students. He also said putting a cap on enrollment would hurt individuals seeking a higher education.
“Mt. SAC’s mission – and the mission of all California community colleges – is to provide access to an affordable quality education for everyone,” Taylor said. “And while an enrollment cap would hurt student access to a quality education, the question of burgeoning enrollment may not be an issue after all, since fall enrollment is currently down.”
Stay tuned to Walnut’s City Council for more news about talks with Mt. SAC administration at http://ci.walnut.ca.us.
The Weekly News Complete Edition 08.09.14
The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link Aug9WeeklyAll to access the complete Aug 9-15 issue in pdf format.
Walnut: Mendoza Sworn In As Mt. SAC Student Trustee
BY MIKE TAYLOR
Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College student, Paola Mendoza, was sworn in as the new student trustee for the 2014-15 academic year during the Mt. SAC Board of Trustees’ July 23 meeting.
As student trustee, Mendoza, 19, will present the student perspective on policy issues before Mt. SAC’s governing board. She will have only an advisory vote, which does not count toward the passage or failure of a motion. The advisory vote helps the board know how the student trustee stands on issues and strengthens the student role in the college’s shared governance process.
Mendoza, a resident of Ontario, is a Psychology major and carries a 3.6 GPA. She has served as a senator with the Mt. SAC Associated Students (student government) and holds memberships in the campus Psychology Club and IDEAS Club, which serves as an advocate for undocumented students.
After she graduates from Mt. SAC, Mendoza plans to transfer to UCLA as a Psychology major.
Walnut: Suzanne Students Join Global Math Olympiad
BY KELLI GILE
Suzanne 7th Grade Math Olympian winners show their awards, showing with teacher Amy Erickson. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Walnut – Suzanne Middle School students were among the 110,000 students worldwide to participate in the 2013-2014 Math Olympiad program. The team participated in a series of five monthly contests, with five problems each, from November to March, and weekly practice sessions with Suzanne math teachers and coaches, Amy Erickson and Victor Lu.
The Math Olympiad contests challenged students to solve unusual and difficult problems and to think creatively. Students were awarded trophies for top scores in each grade level as well as pins and patches of recognition.
“The students responded well to the challenge and were recognized for their achievements during an end of the year awards celebration,” Erickson said.
For the 6th Grade, William Lin came in first with a total of 21 correct out of 25. Lin, Darren Chen, Derek Wang, John Chou, Amber Tsao, Jennifer Zhang, Tyler Xu, and Melony Yu all received silver pins to signify a top 10% score. An embroidered patch was also awarded to Liwen Xia, Nicole Chiang, Katherine Lee, Catherine Wang, Curtis Lin, Daniel Ahu, Marco Chan, Jeremy Hsiao, Louis Wong and Kevin Chen for placing in the top 50%.
For the 7th Grade, Aaron Chang was awarded the 1st Place trophy, along with a patch signifying a top 50% score. Alice Zhang, Ethan Lin, Oscar Chou, Sylvester Yue, Angela Zhu, Jordin Wang, Felianne Teng, Yi Chen, Jerry Guo, Sheldon Zhu, Derick Tseng, Phillip Leung and Jing Wong also received patches for their 50% scores.
For the 8th Grade, Eugene Lo was awarded the 1st Place trophy along with a silver pin recognizing his top 10% score. Christopher Wang was also awarded a silver pin. Kevin Jensen, Lydia Chan, Fabiola Delvillar, Charles Gu, Matthew Nguyen and Irene Zhou received patches for their 50% scores.
Walnut: West Nile Mosquitoes In Walnut
STAFF REPORTS
Walnut – On Fri., July 18, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District identified two samples of mosquitoes caught in traps at Creekside Park that tested positive for the West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the second finding in San Gabriel Valley over the past several weeks.
According to the SGV Mosquito and Vector Control District – or the Vector Inspectors – WNV is present in the San Gabriel Valley every year. You can help to eradicate this disease from the area by taking an active stance against it through prevention. The Vector Inspectors recommend that you walk around your property and dump out any accumulated water in buckets, barrels, old tires, pots, and other containers. Report any green and stagnant pools, ponds and fountains, as they can breed thousands of mosquitoes weekly; and report all dead birds to www.westnile.ca.gov.
WNV is primarily transmitted from bird to bird by mosquitoes. In some species it is nearly always fatal. The presence of dead birds in a neighborhood is often the first indication of WNV activity.
WNV originated in Africa and was first recognized in the United States in 1999. There is currently no cure; however, most people don’t exhibit any symptoms. Since 2003, there have been more than 4,000 reported infections and 145 deaths in California, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), so the threat should be taken seriously. Symptoms include fever, headaches, body aches, skin rashes and nausea, which can present anywhere from five to 15 days after exposure, and can last several days or months.
Popular Creekside Park is the venue for Walnut’s summer concert and movie series, and there are a number of precautions you can take to prevent infection during this event or any outdoor activity.
Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn, and when enjoying warm summer evenings, be sure to wear loose-fitting long pants and sleeves, and shoes and socks. Treating exposed skin areas and outside clothing with repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, and oils of lemon eucalyptus can also be helpful, according to the CDC.
For more information, visit http://www.westnile.ca.gov.
Business Feature: Strategic Alliance – Free Networking
STAFF REPORTS
Join the Strategic Alliance Networking Group at (909) 268-9470 , or visit http://www.strategicnetworking.org for more information.
Walnut – If you are looking for an effective way to market your business and network with local businesses at the same time, Strategic Alliance is the perfect solution…and it’s FREE!
Strategic Alliance is a non-profit company dedicated to providing businesses the opportunity to align synergistically by creating an environment conducive to business development. They were founded in 1997 for the purpose of generating quality business opportunities. By creating an alliance of ethics-driven business professionals who are dedicated to generating business, the level of customer service increases, driving better results.
Members meet each week to exchange information, ideas and referrals. Over time, these relationships – which are built on trust and mutual respect – generate business opportunities. Strategic Alliance is unique in the fact that they are free, have a proven track record with 13 years in business, and their meetings are fun (no one wants to sit through a boring meeting). Similar networking groups often charge for this type of service. One of the reasons Strategic Alliance works so well is that there is only one of each type of business within the membership; this way, you receive all the referrals from the group for your field of expertise.
The group meets every Thursday morning, 7 a.m., at the Holiday Inn (21725 Gateway Center Drive, off Golden Springs), in Diamond Bar. Membership for the group is free, but everyone is encouraged to purchase breakfast to reserve the room at the Holiday Inn each week. Guests are invited to enjoy a free breakfast at their first meeting to see if they are a good match for the group. There are approximately 20 members at every meeting, which in turn generates hundreds of referrals every year, and creates tens of thousands of dollars in business.
Strategic Alliance covers Brea, Chino, Chino Hills, City of Industry, Claremont, Covina, Diamond Bar, Fullerton, Glendora, La Habra, La Puente, La Verne, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, Rowland Heights, San Dimas, Upland, Walnut, and West Covina. They are now recruiting members in a variety of business genres
Contact Strategic Alliance today, and begin marketing your business and generating more income in an effective new way. President, Johnny Hudson, understands that business by referral is the best possible way to grow your business and make more money. Call him at (909) 268-9470, email him at BasicTrainingMembers@yahoo.com, or visit www.strategicnetworking.org for more information.
Walnut’s Aquatic Park
BY RAYMOND MENDOZA
Walnut – After numerous promises during the reelection campaign from council members Mary Su and Bob Pacheco, plans for an aquatic center are starting to come together in the earliest stages of development.
In addition to Pacheco and Su, council member Tony Cartagena also expressed support for the construction of an aquatic center and with a high amount of public interest. $250,000 has been allocated from the 2014/2015 fiscal budget to go toward schematics, testing, and advanced studies in order to make the aquatic center a reality.
However, even with $250,000 being set aside by the City during the first month of its new fiscal year, they are approaching the construction with caution. According to Community Services Director Mary Rooney, the City is just now starting to assess many different aspects of the aquatic center’s construction. Plans are so new that Rooney mentioned that the location, cost, and specifics are preliminary and that everything is up for consideration.
“There are various preliminary plans that have to go in place before we can actually design and build anything,” Rooney said.
To date, the City has met in closed session to discuss the possible locations for the aquatic center while Rooney mentioned that they have only spent an estimated $22,500 of the $250,000 on professionally drawn schematics from Aquatic Design Group.
The total cost of construction for the aquatic center is being considered, however Rooney mentioned that certain council actions, including the July 23 decision to sell a tract of land near Amar Road, are possible ways to fund the creation of the center.
With funding and nearly all of the aquatics center’s plans still under consideration, Rooney wanted to make sure that residents understand that the City is still pushing forward with its plans and that one way or another, the aquatic center will be built.
“We are moving on this,” Rooney said.
Rooney said that with the help of a Parks and Recreation sub-committee, plans will continue to unfold as the year goes on.
Claudine Stines, a Walnut resident who has long been a proponent of this project says, “It’s hard to imagine what started as a swimming pool for Walnut, has now expanded to the possibility of two pools (a competitive and recreational pool). Who knows? The concept could even include a performing arts amphitheater, a series of nature trails, and family-friendly open parks with additional parking…”
Stines also encourages residents to let their voices be heard by visiting her website at http://chn.ge/1e1ewyp, where comments are shared with members of the Walnut City Council.
Walnut: Council Corner July 23d Recap
Walnut Council presents Captain Jeff Scroggin with an appreciation proclamation; (L-R) council members Tony Cartagena and Mary Su; Captain Scroggin; Mayor Nancy Tragarz; council member Bob Pacheco; and Mayor Pro Team Eric Ching.
(Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)
BY RAYMOND MENDOZA
Walnut – Walnut’s City Council met for its final meeting of the month on July 23, which stood as a joint meeting for the City Council and the Housing Authority.
Newly appointed Mayor, Nancy Tragarz, called the meeting to order and welcomed Pastor Paul Tan from City Blessing Church of Walnut to deliver the invocation. Tragarz then gave a declaration that the City of Walnut would recognize Aug. 5, 2014 as National Night Out, an event open to Walnut residents for an evening of family fun at Creekside Park which includes a movie screening and a concert.
Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department Captain, Jeff Scroggin, was invited to accept a proclamation in front of residents, while he was given praise by council members for the department’s hard work in lowering crime rates and providing safety to residents.
The council members then spoke about the opportunity that National Night Out provides, citing it as a chance for families to enjoy themselves and celebrate the safety of the City and bringing the community together.
“National Night Out is an effort for all of us to get together, come out and know members of your community,” Scroggin said.
The meeting then switched gears to a more intense topic, with members of the Timberline Community flooding the public comment section with nine residents declaring their distaste for the amount of growth that Mount San Antonio College has undergone and the level of congestion that student parking has caused. Residents called the increase in traffic and pollution a “crisis” and several residents called for immediate action – regardless of the power that city council has on Mount San Antonio College affairs.
Council member Tony Cartagena said it would be wise for the council to further discuss what can be done in appeasing the residents of the Timberline Community, vowing to bring the item back for discussion at a later time.
After the public comment section was closed, the council members moved to approve the minutes for the City Council/Finance Authority/Housing Authority meeting on June 25, and the July 9 council meeting, before moving on to a public hearing item concerning renewal of the Animal Care and Control Services Agreement with the County of Los Angeles.
A staff report outlined that the renewed contract would last for five years ending June 30, 2019, and adopts a resolution to include fees for dog and cat licensing and modifying the age requirement for senior citizens. City council members then opted to unanimously approve the renewed contract.
Council members then moved on to approve the items on the consent calendar, including Resolution No. 14-34 for claims and demands in the amount of $817,099.51; Resolution No. 14-35 for an intent to abandon property acquired for park purposes, the Mayor’s agency representatives; Resolution No. 14-36 designating Mary Su as the official voting delegate for the League of California Cities Annual Conference; a one year contract renewal with option to extend for two additional years with RPW, Inc. for trail and right of way maintenance services; the appropriation of grant funds for the Amar Road Rehabilitation Project totaling $998,000; and the approval for sports groups requests for bi-annual field use for Fall 2014.
After council members gave their reports on meetings, comments and updates for residents, the housing authority started its business, approving its only consent calendar item allowing claims and demands in the amount of $27,695.90.
The council members then adjourned to closed session with plans to meet for the next City Council meeting at 7 p.m. on Wed., Aug. 13, in the City Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.
The Weekly News Complete Edition 07.26.14
The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link July26WeeklyAll to access the complete July 26-Aug 1, 2014 issue in pdf format.
Walnut: Tragarz Vows “Honesty And Integrity” During Term As Mayor
BY RAYMOND MENDOZA
Walnut’s New Mayor, Nancy Tragarz (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)
Walnut – During the July 9 city council meeting, titles were exchanged and Mayor Pro Tem, Nancy Tragarz, was officially sworn in as mayor for the City of Walnut- promising to uphold the community’s values and pledging to serve to the best of her abilities.
Tragarz, who served as mayor of Walnut once before from 2011 to 2012, said she’s looking forward to leading the council with a strong sense of leadership, finance, accounting and legal skills to help push along the city’s prominence.
“My goal is to create unity and teamwork on the council and in the entire community,” Tragarz said. “The policy I will fight for is transparency, honesty, ethics, and doing what is in the best interest of the community as a whole.”
In consideration for her background, Tragarz brings a wide variety of expertise to her role as mayor, having graduated from Walnut High School with highest honors in 1981 then obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from USC, magna cum laude, in 1985.
Tragarz then attended Loyola Law School while working as a certified law clerk for the Los Angeles County District Attorney. She passed the bar exam in 1991 and worked for two different law firms in the area of business litigation, bankruptcy, and contracts. She has also volunteered as a temporary judge in the Los Angeles County Courts since 1998.
In 2002, Tragarz worked part-time for a firm in order to spend more time with her two sons.
She then served as a vice chair for the City’s special ethics committee from 2002 to 2003, where she helped draft Walnut’s first code of ethics and candidates’ campaign manual.
By 2005, Tragarz was then appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission and served as vice chair before being elected to Walnut’s City Council in 2008.
Tragarz said her long-time strategy of being honest and attuned with the needs of Walnut’s residents will keep the city moving in the right direction.
While elected officials sometimes have a tendency to oversell themselves with promises and delusions of grandeur, Tragarz remains realistic to her constituents by saying she has no specific agenda and that she would “respond to the needs and desires of the community.”
As she starts her second term as mayor of Walnut, Tragarz said the best way to deal with concerns of the public is to be informative and lawful in her decisions, stating that the residents are willing to accept the truth if they are provided with facts.
“I believe honesty and integrity is the best policy.”
Walnut: Mt. SAC VP Honored with State Diversity Award
BY MIKE TAYLOR
(L-R) California Community College Chancellor Brice Harris, Mt. SAC Student Services Vice President Audrey Yamagata-Noji, former Mt. SAC student and now Governor’s Fellow with the California Department of Finance Rene Kouassi, past Mt. SAC Associated Students President May Ochoa, and former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.
(Photo Courtesy: Mike Taylor)
Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College Student Services Vice President, Dr. Audrey Yamagata-Noji, was honored recently with the Dr. John W. Rice Diversity and Equity Award in Sacramento.
Yamagata-Noji was named for the award for establishing numerous programs that provide mentorship and tutoring services for underrepresented students. She has been a champion of diversity and equity programs at Mt. SAC that support student success, including the college’s Bridge Program for first-time college students, the Arise Program for Asian and Pacific Islander students, and the Aspire Program for African-American students. The award was established to honor community college staff, districts, colleges and programs that have made the greatest contribution toward diversity and equity at community colleges.
“Dr. John W. Rice wanted all community college students to be treated equally, fairly, and with respect. All he wanted was for everyone to have an equal chance at an education, and the winners of the award today want the same thing,” said California Community Colleges Board of Governors President and Mt. SAC Trustee, Dr. Manuel Baca.
The award is named after the former California Community Colleges Board of Governors member and the father of former U.S. Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice.
“For my father, being a part of the community college system was not just a profession, but it was a passion and indeed a mission and a calling,” said former the U.S. Secretary of State, who delivered the keynote address at the 14th annual awards ceremony. “He recognized that education is not a right, it’s a privilege and that someone stood up for him and that he must stand up for others.”
Yamagata-Noji has served as Student Services Vice President at Mt. SAC since 1996. A resident of Santa Ana, she has also served on the Santa Ana Unified School District Board of Education for over 30 years and is currently serving as Board President.
San Gabriel Valley: Community Events
STAFF REPORTS
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Free ESL and Citizenship Classes
When: Monday through Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m.; or Monday through Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: 2100 Lerona Avenue, Rowland Heights
Details: Rowland Adult & Community Education is now offering free English as a Second Language and Citizenship courses to adult students this summer due to a grant received from the Majestic Reality Foundation in the City of Industry.
Contact: Call (626) 965-5975, or visit http://race.rowland.k12.ca.us.
Mt. Calvary Lutheran Summer Kids’ Day Camp
When: Monday, Now through Wednesday, August 20; 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church & Schools, 23300 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar 91765 Details: A fun, safe, Christian environment for your school age children. Kids’ camp is a summer day camp program based on fun, personal and spiritual growth, and the celebration of God’s Word through various activities, field trips, and daily devotions. All children ages 5 – 12 are invited to attend. Check out the Mt. Calvary Lutheran website for more information about daily activities, registration, and fees.
West Covina Summer Concert Series
When: Thursday evenings, now through August 7; 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: West Covina Civic Center, 1444 W. Garvey Avenue
Details: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and dancing shoes and enjoy this summer entertainment:
- Jul 24: Sgt. Pepper
- Jul 31: Cold Duck
- Aug 7: Mariachi Divas
- Aug 16: Food Truck Frenzy and Concert
Contact: Community Services Department, (626) 939-8489.
Diamond Bar Concert/Movie Series
When: Wednesday evenings through August 13; 6:30 p.m.
Where: Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive
Details: Free admission and free parking
- Jul 23: The Answer (Classic Rock); The Great and Powerful Oz.
- Jul 30: Box Car 7 (Blues, R&B); Free Birds.
- Aug 06: Cold Ducks (70s Tribute); The Lego Movie.
- Aug 13: Little Lies Band (Fleetwood Mac Tribute); Despicable Me 2
Contact: www.ci.diamond-bar.ca.us
21st Annual Oxnard Salsa Festival
When: Saturday, July 26
Where: Oxnard, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).
Details: For $20 per person you can enjoy salsa, food, music and dance. Lunch is on your own at the festival. All ages are welcome.
Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.
Reduced Cost Vaccination Clinic
When: Tuesday, July 29, 7 to 8 p.m.
Where: Chino Community Building, 5443 B Street, Chino
Details: The Inland Valley Humane Society and SPCA will hold a reduced fee vaccination and licensing clinic for pets. Dogs: Rabies/$6; DHPP/$15; Bordetella/$15. Cats: Rabies/$10; FVRCP/$18.
Contact: (909) 706-4601
Chino Youth Museum Family-Friendly Programs
When: Now through August 2014
Where: 13191 Sixth Street, Downtown Chino; Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nominal fees.
Details: There are some amazing events taking place this summer, from art projects and entertainment, to edible art creations and Kids Night Out. Enjoy special activities like You & Me Time, Beat the Heat cool activities, and special day Museum Birthday Parties.
Contact: (909) 334-3270 to find out more about the summer-fun schedule.
Wheel Food Fest
When: August 1, September 5, October 3 (1st Friday of the month); 5 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Walnut Valley Unified School District, 880 S. Lemon Avenue, in Walnut.
Details: The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation is sponsoring a family fun night with a variety of gourmet food trucks. This is a delicious way to support your students, schools and community. There are no entry fees, and there is plenty of free parking. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy! Food trucks may include: The Slummin’ Gourmet, Macho Nacho, Rolling Sushi, Cup Cakery, Crepes Bonaparte, White Rabbit, and Dos Chinos. Please leave your pets at home, and do not bring alcohol, outside food or drinks.
Chino Relay for Life
When: Sat., Aug. 2, 9 a.m. through Sunday, Aug. 3, 8 a.m.
Where: Ayala Park, 14201 Central Ave, Chino
Details: 24-hour event that helps to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Run, Walk, Sponsor!
Contact: Kristine Travis, at kritravi1978@yahoo.com
Youth Citizens Police Academy Class VIII
When: Monday – Thursday, Aug. 11-21; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Chino Police Department, 5450 Walnut Avenue
Details: High school teens, 14-18 years of age, who live or attend school in the City of Chino, can get an inside look at all the functions of their local law enforcement agency. Participants will get hands-on experience with SWAT, Patrol, Criminal Investigations, K-9, CSI, Narcotics, Traffic and much more!
Contact: Olivia Le Van, (909) 334-3087, or olevan@chinopd.org for applications.
Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Finale featuring the Simpsons!
When: Saturday, Sept. 13
Where: Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).
Details: Journey from the animated Springfield Bowl to the Hollywood Bowl for this unprecedented event as the famous orchestra accompanies your favorite scenes from the Simpsons on the big screen. Seats are located in Section F2, Rows 5, 6, and 7. The fee is $55 per person, appropriate for all ages.
Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.
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
The Weekly News 07.19.14
The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link July19WeeklyAll to access the complete July 19-25, 2014 issue in pdf format
San Gabriel Valley: Community Events
STAFF REPORTS
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Free ESL and Citizenship Classes
When: Monday through Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m.; or Monday through Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: 2100 Lerona Avenue, Rowland Heights
Details: Rowland Adult & Community Education is now offering free English as a Second Language and Citizenship courses to adult students this summer due to a grant received from the Majestic Reality Foundation in the City of Industry.
Contact: Call (626) 965-5975, or visit http://race.rowland.k12.ca.us.
Mt. Calvary Lutheran Summer Kids’ Day Camp
When: Monday, Now through Wednesday, August 20; 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church & Schools, 23300 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar 91765 Details: A fun, safe, Christian environment for your school age children. Kids’ camp is a summer day camp program based on fun, personal and spiritual growth, and the celebration of God’s Word through various activities, field trips, and daily devotions. All children ages 5 – 12 are invited to attend. Check out the Mt. Calvary Lutheran website for more information about daily activities, registration, and fees.
West Covina Summer Concert Series
When: Thursday evenings, now through August 7; 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: West Covina Civic Center, 1444 W. Garvey Avenue
Details: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and dancing shoes and enjoy this summer entertainment:
- Jul 17: Bumptown
- Jul 24: Sgt. Pepper
- Jul 31: Cold Duck
- Aug 7: Mariachi Divas
- Aug 16: Food Truck Frenzy and Concert
Contact: Community Services Department, (626) 939-8489.
Diamond Bar Concert/Movie Series
When: Wednesday evenings through August 13; 6:30 p.m.
Where: Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive
Details: Free admission and free parking
- Jul 16: Retro Soul (Dance); Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.
- Jul 23: The Answer (Classic Rock); The Great and Powerful Oz.
- Jul 30: Box Car 7 (Blues, R&B); Free Birds.
- Aug 06: Cold Ducks (70s Tribute); The Lego Movie.
- Aug 13: Little Lies Band (Fleetwood Mac Tribute); Despicable Me 2
Contact: www.ci.diamond-bar.ca.us
21st Annual Oxnard Salsa Festival
When: Saturday, July 26
Where: Oxnard, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).
Details: For $20 per person you can enjoy salsa, food, music and dance. Lunch is on your own at the festival. All ages are welcome.
Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.
Reduced Cost Vaccination Clinic
When: Tuesday, July 29, 7 to 8 p.m.
Where: Chino Community Building, 5443 B Street, Chino
Details: The Inland Valley Humane Society and SPCA will hold a reduced fee vaccination and licensing clinic for pets. Dogs: Rabies/$6; DHPP/$15; Bordetella/$15. Cats: Rabies/$10; FVRCP/$18.
Contact: (909) 706-4601
Chino Youth Museum Family-Friendly Programs
When: Now through August 2014
Where: 13191 Sixth Street, Downtown Chino; Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nominal fees.
Details: There are some amazing events taking place this summer, from art projects and entertainment, to edible art creations and Kids Night Out. Enjoy special activities like You & Me Time, Beat the Heat cool activities, and special day Museum Birthday Parties.
Contact: (909) 334-3270 to find out more about the summer-fun schedule.
Chino Relay for Life
When: Sat., Aug. 2, 9 a.m. through Sunday, Aug. 3, 8 a.m.
Where: Ayala Park, 14201 Central Ave, Chino
Details: 24-hour event that helps to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Run, Walk, Sponsor!
Contact: Kristine Travis, at kritravi1978@yahoo.com
Youth Citizens Police Academy Class VIII
When: Monday – Thursday, Aug. 11-21; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Chino Police Department, 5450 Walnut Avenue
Details: High school teens, 14-18 years of age, who live or attend school in the City of Chino, can get an inside look at all the functions of their local law enforcement agency. Participants will get hands-on experience with SWAT, Patrol, Criminal Investigations, K-9, CSI, Narcotics, Traffic and much more!
Contact: Olivia Le Van, (909) 334-3087, or olevan@chinopd.org for applications.
Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Finale featuring the Simpsons!
When: Saturday, Sept. 13
Where: Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).
Details: Journey from the animated Springfield Bowl to the Hollywood Bowl for this unprecedented event as the famous orchestra accompanies your favorite scenes from the Simpsons on the big screen. Seats are located in Section F2, Rows 5, 6, and 7. The fee is $55 per person, appropriate for all ages.
Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.
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
Walnut: Council Corner – New Mayor
BY RAYMOND MENDOZA
New Mayor of Walnut, Nancy Tragarz (Photo Courtesy: City of Walnut)
Walnut – Walnut residents gathered at City Hall on Wed., July 9 to watch Mayor Pro Tem, Nancy Tragarz, ascend to the position of Mayor of Walnut.
Before the council’s reorganizations, council members proclaimed that July will be known as Parks and Recreation Month and commended retiring City Planner, Laura Nash, for her six years of service to the City.
Mayor Tony Cartagena noted that park use is an important part of the community in Walnut, while lowering juvenile crime rates and promoting participation in the arts.
Tragarz praised the Parks and Recreation Department for its numerous activities, citing the recent Movies in the Park series and the Fourth of July Celebration as perfect examples of the good work being done in the City for its citizens.
“It’s so important to have wonderful parks,” Tragarz said. “Our parks are so well kept … thanks to our Parks and Recreation Commission and all you do.”
Cartagena and the council members then congratulated Nash on her years of service as City Planner, citing her diligence and hard work as a tribute to her character.
After a presentation of Cartagena’s accomplishments as Mayor of Walnut from July 2013 to July 2014, City Attorney, Michael Montgomery, opened the nominations for Mayor, with Council Member Mary Su nominating Tragarz. Tragarz was then sworn in as Mayor of Walnut by members of her family.
Tragarz was elected to serve on the Walnut City Council in 2008 and was chosen by her fellow council members to serve as Mayor in June 2011. Tragarz has served as Mayor Pro Tem since her appointment in July 2013. She also previously served as Vice Chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Commission, Vice Chairperson on the Ethics Committee, and on the Family Festival Committee.
After being sworn in as Mayor, Tragarz’ first act was to nominate councilmember Eric Ching as Mayor Pro Tem, who was approved for the position by receiving a 3-2 majority vote.
City Council members then moved onto the public hearing items, approving Ordinance No. 14-02 for the City Council of the City of Walnut to add language to the City’s municipal code for parking in the City-owned parking lot; and Ordinance No. 14-03 for establishing locations for meetings and official postings.
Council members then approved all items on the consent calendar, including Resolution No.14-32 allowing claims and demands in the amount of $558,637.81; an award of a bid for the Amar Road rehabilitation project in the amount of $152,000; and the approval of a three-year contract with Animal Pest Management, Inc. for rodent control in zones 1 through 9 and 12, parks, and city owned areas.
After the council members delivered their individual announcements, the meeting officially adjourned with plans to meet on June 23 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.
Business Feature: First Baptist Church of Walnut Valley
STAFF REPORTS
Photo Courtesy: FBCWV
First Baptist Church of Walnut Valley (FBCWV) is calling all kids who have completed grades 1 through 6 to come and make new friends and participate in an exciting music experience. The 11th Annual Summer Music Camp, held Monday through Friday, July 28 through August 8, is an amazing program offering music education and experiences led by trained and dedicated leaders.
Children can enjoy music, singing, choreography, drama, Bible lessons, crafts, games, water fun, and a special field trip in this two-week adventure that runs from daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The camp ends on August 8 with a celebratory 30-foot banana split, followed by a special performance for family and friends on Sunday, August 10.
The cost is only $120 per person for the entire camp, but space is limited. Register at the church office Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to noon, and 1:30 to 4 p.m.
FBCWV first came into being in 1969 as a mission church that conducted its services in a school cafeteria. Since then, they have grown into so much more, and are known as “a small church with a big outreach.” They offer opportunities and activities for all ages, from nursery to adult, on a daily basis. These activities include Bible Study groups, Men’s Fellowship, Youth Groups, Sports Ministries, Mission Trips, and their Performing Arts Ministry.
The Church’s sense of family and passion carry over into their different avenues of ministry, including performing arts. “Our purpose is to use the avenue of music and drama as a ministry that will introduce people to Jesus, generate a closer spiritual walk with Him and encourage fellowship and service with other Believers,” says the Director of Performing Arts and King’s Kids, Yvonne Read.
Sunday services begin at 10:30 a.m., with a 9:15 a.m. Bible Study group available for all ages. Everyone is welcome to attend. According to Read, “We are a caring family and are always excited as we lovingly welcome new members to help serve and worship with us. You will feel right at home and cherished.”
Pastor Glenn Miyazono presents the Bible message each week with clear and inspiring words. “The music will thrill your heart,” he says.
For more information or to register for the music camp, visit the church office located at 20425 E. La Puente Road, in Walnut, call (909) 595-0811, or visit FBCWV’s website at http://www.fbcwv.org.
The Weekly News 07.12.14
The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link July12WeeklyAll to access the complete July 12-18, 2014 issue in pdf format
Walnut: Mayor Meets With Religious Leaders
BY RAYMOND MENDOZA
Walnut City Hall (Photo Courtesy: City of Walnut)
Walnut – Following a May 5 Supreme Court decision ruling that religious invocations were acceptable at city council and other public board meetings, Mayor Tony Cartagena met with several religious leaders in the area on July 1 to discuss an open invitation to all religions wishing to deliver a prayer to the residents of Walnut.
The original lawsuit was brought on by two women in Greece, New York – one Jewish, and one atheist – claiming that the city’s invocations featured prayers to Jesus Christ and were specifically aimed at Christianity.
After the United States Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in favor of allowing religious invocations at city meetings, Cartagena decided to hold a meeting to ensure that even with the large population of Catholic and Christian residents, the Walnut City Council invocation is open to all religions as long as they do not degrade the message of any other religion and do not force their beliefs on unwilling attendees. Cartagena reached out to all local churches and religious groups to discuss a schedule for reading invocations during upcoming council meetings.
According to Cartagena, the meeting had representatives from the First Baptist Church of Walnut, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the City Blessing Church of Walnut, the Gospel Life Community Church, and the Walnut United Methodist Church.
Cartagena said the meeting was successful and allowed for each responding representative to learn about the rules regarding the deliverance of invocations and that the City Council meetings would soon play host to various religious leaders who would like to offer their prayers to the community.
Furthermore, Cartagena said he was happy with the Supreme Court’s decision because Walnut has a long standing tradition of hosting prayers at the City Council meetings.
“By having invocations at the Walnut City Council sessions, religious leaders could play important roles in seeking help from our almighty God for the legislative body to formulate decisions that would enhance Walnut’s quality of life, among other things,” said Cartagena. The mayor also called the meetings “essential” to the local government.
Some religious leaders, like High Priest Missionary, Felix Maico, of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said the inclusion of many religions during the invocation will help strengthen the community because it would create connections between the many religions in the city. Maico also noted that freedom of religion is the right of all American citizens and that every religion should have the chance to believe in whatever they want to believe.
Pastor Paul Tan, of City Blessing Church of Walnut, said the decision to allow invocations from all religions will be a boon for the city and its residents, because it will give some individuals the chance to see the friendliness behind other religions.
“It will be beneficial because we need to know one another,” Tan said. “Sometimes we don’t love one another because we don’t know one another. Maybe this will change that.”
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