Category Archives: Walnut

WALNUT: Major Drop In Crime For Walnut-Diamond Bar

By K.P. Sander

Walnut-Diamond Bar – The citizens of Walnut and Diamond Bar have cause to be very proud of their local law enforcement. The dedication and commitment they have shown for the people they have sworn to protect is very apparent in the latest crime statistics.

According to Captain Jeff Scroggin of the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station, the area has shown significant decreases in crime rates. “The Part I crime rate for the entire area served by Walnut-Diamond Bar Station is down 25.79% as of April 16, 2014. The City of Walnut’s crime rate is down 46.5%. The City of Diamond Bar’s crime rate is down 27.9%, and the crime rate for the entire unincorporated areas served by our station is down 12.9%. Part I crime rates are based on the FBI’s Uniform Crime Index. The categories used for the FBI Uniform Crime Index are homicides, rapes, robberies, aggravated assaults, burglaries, larceny theft, grand theft auto and arson. The FBI uses these statistics to determine crime rates and these rates help us compare cities relative crime rates, and can help us determine which areas are the safest. It is always hard to place an exact cause on why crime rates go up and down because they always fluctuate based on the crime trends we face,” said Scroggin.

Scroggin also said that they have had some good fortune in seeing the categories of burglary and larceny theft rates lower in both of the contract cities and unincorporated areas. They have also made a number of excellent arrests related to burglary. The burglary and theft categories are typically the crimes that happen the most in the area and have the greatest impact on local crime rates.

“We usually have a very low incidence of any crimes classified as violent, such as homicide, rape, robbery and assault. Along with our contract cities, our station has been working hard to reenergize and increase our Neighborhood Watch program. This effort has been met with some renewed enthusiasm by all the communities we serve. Diamond Bar has supported a “Report for Reward” program to encourage residents to call whenever they believe criminal activity is occurring, and the City of Walnut also recently started a similar reward program. Diamond Bar has also hired an additional deputy to work on special problems within their community and the entire station is really focused on reducing the number of daytime residential burglary through increased patrols and greater community awareness of the crime trends facing our community,” Scroggin continued.

Captain Scroggin says that community involvement is the key in helping to keep crime rates low. He encourages everyone to become part of a Neighborhood Watch program, or even become a volunteer at the Sheriff’s Station to help with additional community patrols. The more the community is involved, the better they can be at keeping this area one of the safest in all of Southern California.

Find out more about getting involved in keeping your community safe by visiting the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station website at http://www.Walnut.DiamondBar.lasd.org. If you have information regarding a crime, you can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477); texting TIPLA plus your tip to 274637 (CRIMES); or visiting http://www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

WALNUT: Suzanne Teacher Named 2014 PBS Digital Innovator

Alice Chen

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Alice Chen, a Suzanne Middle School Language Arts teacher and Technology Coach, has been selected as one of the top 16 PBS Learning Media Digital Innovators for 2014.

An impressive group of 100 educators from across the country was named to the program in an announcement made April 7. In addition, the top 16 applicants will serve as leads of the program and will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, DC, on June 19 and 20, to participate in a digital education summit.

 

“I’m honored to have been selected, and I look forward to all the learning and collaboration that this opportunity will provide,” said Chen, who is also a Google Certified Teacher and a Microsoft Partners in Learning 2012 U.S. Forum Finalist.

The congratulatory letter from PBS Learning Media stated that Chen “stood out above the rest of the applicants for the nationwide program.” She was chosen as a program leader due to her overwhelming tech-savvy skills and passion for integrating digital media and technology in the classroom.

Chen’s favorite PBS Learning Media resource is the Global Learning and Diplomacy Collection.  Her students used this rich resource during their Global Awareness Speech Unit when they researched, wrote, and delivered a TED-style talk about pressing global issues in today’s world.

 

PBS Learning Media received hundreds of applications from leading K-12 teachers throughout the U.S. and its territories. An esteemed group of judges selected the 100 educators based on submissions of videos and written essays that addressed how they are leading innovation in digital teaching in their classrooms and schools. As a 2014 PBS Learning Media Digital Innovator, Chen becomes a member in a robust professional learning community with access to exclusive resources.

WALNUT: Walnut Council Corner

 

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Just one day after Robert Pacheco and Mary Su were re-elected to their seats on the Walnut City Council, business continued as usual during the City’s April 9 council meeting.

After having no minutes to approve, no presentations, and no public hearings scheduled, the council members quickly approved the three items on the consent calendar, including Resolution No. 14-15, for claim and demands in the amount of $472,455.82; Resolution No. 14-16, for a Walnut City Employee’s Association 2014-2016 Memorandum of Understanding; and a five-year General Services Agreement between the City of Walnut and the County of Los Angeles through June 30, 2019.

Dialogue was started concerning the five-year General Services Agreement, which prompted councilwoman Su to question the need for repairs on certain streets in the City. Mary Rooney, Director of Community Services, said that some streets that are in need of repair are scheduled for resurfacing in the near future. Rooney also mentioned that while some streets do have noticeable cracks, repairs might not be completely necessary because they are not currently causing major problems. Rooney then said that if Walnut residents have major or minor complaints about damaged streets, to contact the Community Services Department at (909) 598-5605.

The City Council then approved the only item on the successor agency consent calendar, which was Resolution No. 14-17, for the successor agency allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $1,500.

After a brief announcement by the council members, Mayor Tony Cartagena adjourned the meeting at 7:30 p.m. and announced the next Walnut City Council meeting for April 23.

Diamond Bar, Walnut High Among America’s Most Challenging Schools

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools are among the most academically challenging schools in the nation, according to the annual rankings by the Washington Post. Both schools made the 2014 “America’s Most Challenging High Schools,” listing that includes more than 1,900 public high schools (released on April 7).

Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) ranked 318 on the national listing, up from 399 in 2012. DBHS also improved its state ranking to 38, up from 45 last year.

“Diamond Bar High School has made a concerted effort to increase access to our Advanced Placement courses.  We are pleased to see that more students are successfully attempting these courses and that our efforts to establish equitable access to rigorous courses are being recognized by publications like the Washington Post.  We are very proud of our staff, students, parents, and community for their hard work and support,” said Principal Catherine Real.

“DBHS actually ranks 30th in the state if you remove all private schools from the list,” Real added. “Many of the remaining schools on the list have special admission screening processes.  The fact that Diamond Bar High School is an open enrollment school and still ranks among the best in the state and nation is extremely impressive!”

Walnut High School ranked 533 on the national listing and 67 in the state ranking. “We’re always excited to be ranked as one of the top high schools not only in the state, but also nationally. Our staff and students worked really hard to be recognized with this honor. I’m always appreciative of the support our community provides to Walnut High School,” said Principal Jeff Jordan.

“However, the part that disappoints me with this ranking is that it doesn’t provide the data accurately for our school,” said Jordan, “For example, it doesn’t list the 22 AP courses, the 18 IB courses, 18 varsity sports, and the high percentage of our graduates attending four-year colleges. If the data was included, I am confident our ranking would be much higher.”

Since 1998, Washington Post columnist, Jay Mathews, has rated public high schools around the country with the Challenge Index. The index takes the total number of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and Advanced International Certificate of Education tests given at the school that year and divides it by the number of seniors who graduated in May or June.

“With a few exceptions, public schools that achieved a ratio of at least 1.000, meaning they had as many tests in 2013 as they had graduates, were put on the national list,” Mathews said. Before posting the list, he also filters out magnet or charter high schools that have few average-performing students. According to Mathews, this year only nine percent of the approximately 22,000 U.S. public high schools managed to reach that standard and be included on the list.

For more information, see http://apps.washingtonpost.com/local/highschoolchallenge/.

Community Events

Staff Reports

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 National Child Abuse Prevention Month

When: Month of April

Where: Walnut Fire Station 61 (Lemon Avenue and La Puente Road)

Details: In support of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Walnut Valley Women’s Club facilitated the planting of a garden of pinwheels at Fire Station 61. The pinwheels will remain throughout the month of April. “Pinwheels for Prevention” is a Prevent Child Abuse America program which promotes the message that, “All children deserve an equal chance to thrive and grow.”

Diamond Bar Birthday Celebration

When: Saturday, April 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Pantera Park, 738 Pantera Drive, Diamond Bar

Contact: (909) 839-7000

DBHS Spring Musical “The Pirates of Penzance”

When: April 24, 25, 26 and May 1, 2, 3 at 7 p.m.

Where: DBHS Theatre, 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar

Details: Tickets sales are available at http://www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama. Sections B, C, D: Adults are $18, Students w/ID are $15. Sections A, E: Adults are $15, Students w/ID are $12.

Contact: Beatrice Casagran at (909) 594-1405, ext. 33276

Diamond Bar AYSO: Registration ages 4 to 18 years of age.

When:  April 24, May, May 15, and June 3, 2014 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Pantera Park

Details: Please visit DBAYSO.ORG for registration procedures for both volunteers and players ages 4 to 18.

Contact: Greg M. Busch, R31_Safety@dbayso.org

21th Annual Diamond Bar Library Wine Soirée

When: Sunday, April 27

Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar

Details: An afternoon of delicious food from local restaurants, great wine from the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition, music, and exciting book, silent and live auctions. A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket. All of the proceeds go directly to your local community library.

Cost: Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door.

Contact: (909) 861-2002

FUTURE EVENTS:

Music at the Point

When: Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: South Pointe Middle School, 20671 Larkstone Drive, Diamond Bar

Details:

Walnut Senior Center Peddler’s Market

When: May 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Walnut Senior Center

Details: Residents are encouraged to clean out those cupboards, closets, garages and become a vendor at the annual Peddler’s Market. Vendors may purchase two full parking spaces for $35 or three full parking spaces for $50.

Contact: Kim Watts at the Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200.

Fire Service Day

When: Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: City of Industry Fire Station 118; 17056 Gale Avenue, City of Industry

Details: Join the Los Angeles County Fire Station as they celebrate Fire Service Day with Fire Engines, Pool Safety, Jaws of Life Demonstration, and Equipment Displays.

OPARC’s Heart and Sole: Fun Run 1K/5K and Health Fair

When: June 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park, 5575 Edison Ave., Chino CA 91710

Cost: Entry fee for runners/walkers is $20, inspiration signs are $50, vendor booths are $150 and additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Free parking

Details: OPARC, a 501(c)(3) organization that trains, employs and serves the mentally disabled community. Food vendors, vendor booths, participant awards, music, guest appearances, and more. Walk-ins are welcome.

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

 

SGV-IE: Costco Secrets To Shopping

According to “Epic Dash”, Costco has a secret to their pricing. Apparently some things are full price, some are sales, some are clearance, and some are Managers Specials. Read more:
Avoid products with prices ending in .99 – these are full price.1-costco

Items with prices ending in .97 are deals decided by the store manager. These won’t be around for long and can offer amazing discounts.2-costco

Prices ending in .49 or .79 are a manufacturers special offer. These prices usually apply to products which are heaving a trial run and are usually priced cheaper than their retail price.3-costco

Watch out for products that end in .00, the manager wants these items off the shelf for good. That means that they’re priced down and nearly out of stock.4-costco

Labels with an asterisk are reserved for items that are discontinued. Usually, these are priced cheaply to get them off shelves.5-costco

Is it weird I feel like I’m part of a secret club or something?

Walnut: Unofficial Election Results for Walnut

Walnut Election

By K.P. Sander

Walnut – The Walnut Municipal Election took place on Tues., April 8. The unofficial results show incumbent candidates Bob Pacheco and Mary Su earning the two open seats on the City Council.

The entire election has been awash in controversy as allegations of campaign sign theft between contenders Mary Su and Betty Tang reached the point of Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff Station involvement. Just last week accusatory complaints were filed against Tang after Su’s campaign signs were allegedly located in a dumpster immediately behind her campaign office. There were denials and finger-pointing, which of course detracted from the importance of the election and putting the right people in place. Voters also found themselves trying to make decisions through research tainted by attack ads sponsored by two political organizations, Citizens to Protect Walnut, and Taxpayers for Quality Leadership (see anapr.com for related stories).

“This certainly was the most intense and expensive Walnut City election that I can remember,” said Mt. Sac Board Vice President David Hall. “Hopefully Walnut’s leaders can now get back to solving the challenges faced by the city and making a great city even greater.”

Once the nomination period ended this January and the time before the election became sensitive, the mudslinging began. This included concerns regarding challenger Betty Tang’s campaign contributions (see story below) as well as the sign theft complaints.

But voters made a decision through the rubble, and they have decided Pacheco and Su should remain in office and help steer the City of Walnut onward. Once the election results are final, the council members will be sworn in at the next City Council meeting this month.

Inland Empire/San Gabriel Valley: Calendar of Events 04/05/2014

STAFF REPORTS

 

UPCOMING EVENTSEvents

Discover How to Become A “Road Scholar” with Free Seminar

When: April 7, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Where: Air Quality Management District, 21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: Come to this free seminar and learn about Road Scholar – America’s first, and world’s largest educational, not-for-profit travel organization for adults. The speaker will be Jill Swaim.

Contact: Diamond Bar/Walnut Branch of American Association of University Women at diamondbarwalnut-ca.aauw.net

 

2014 Public Health Expo

When: April 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument (Olvera Street) at 125 Paseo de la Plaza

Details: FREE health screenings, free pet vaccinations, and services. Learn about: immunizations, women’s health, nutrition, and other health information. Live entertainment: Mariachi Los Toros, Groov3 dancing, yoga, and more.

Contact: dial 2-1-1 or visit http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.

 

Diamond Bar Birthday Celebration

When: Saturday, April 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Pantera Park, 738 Pantera Drive, Diamond Bar

Contact: (909) 839-7000

 

DBHS Spring Musical “The Pirates of Penzance”

When: April 24, 25, 26 and May 1,2, 3 at 7 p.m.

Where: DBHS Theatre at 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar

Details: Tickets sales are available at http://www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama. Sections B, C, D: Adults are $18, Students w/ID are $15. Sections A, E:  Adults are $15, Students w/ID are $12.

Contact: Beatrice Casagran at (909) 594-1405 ext. 33276

 

Diamond Bar AYSO: Registration ages 4 to 18 years of age.

When:  April 24, May, May 15, and June 3, 2014 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Pantera Park

Details: Please visit DBAYSO.ORG for registration procedures for both volunteers and players ages 4 to 18.

Contact: Greg M. Busch, R31_Safety@dbayso.org

 

21th Annual Diamond Bar Library Wine Soirée

When: Sunday, April 27

Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar

Details: An afternoon of delicious food from local restaurants, great wine from the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition, music, and exciting book, silent and live auctions. A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket. All of the proceeds go directly to your local community library.

Cost: Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door.

Contact: (909) 861-2002

 

FUTURE EVENTS:

Walnut Senior Center Peddler’s Market

When: May 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Walnut Senior Center

Details: Residents are encouraged to clean out those cupboards, closets, garages and become a vendor at the annual Peddler’s Market. Vendors may purchase two full parking spaces for $35 or three full parking spaces for $50.

Contact: Kim Watts at the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200.

 

OPARC’s Heart and Sole: Fun Run 1K/5K and health fair

When: June 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park, 5575 Edison Ave., Chino CA 91710

Cost: Entry fee for runners/walkers is $20, inspiration signs are $50, vendor booths are $150 and additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Free parking

Details: OPARC, a 501(c)(3) organization that trains, employs an serves the mentally disabled community. Food vendors, vendor booths, participant awards, music, guest appearances, and more. Walk-ins are welcome.

 

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 Tuesdays 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 appreciate afternoons.

 

Free Acupuncture for veterans, active military, first responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Where: 12598 Central Ave. 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: Admission/parking free

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

Contact: (909) 869-0701

 

Inland Empire: The Great Pretender

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

I remember dressing up like batman; the little K-Mart suit with the plastic mask. I remember watching SWAT and grabbing a stick like it was my machine gun. I remember trying to lift the car because I wanted to be Steve Austin, the Six Million Dollar Man.

You’d think it was healthy to give your imagination a chance to flourish, to enhance your creativity. But without proper guidance, explanation, and influence, it’s hard to differentiate between reality and fantasy. Without explanation, the lines of reality are blurred, so you embed in your mind that when life seems difficult you can mask your pain, like you did when you were a child, and become someone you’re not.

I remember being stressed to a point that I felt I could no longer take it. So I went out, drank, and became someone I wasn’t. I pretended to be someone who didn’t exist, someone I never was and never could be. I reverted to my child-like instincts and put on that K-Mart batman mask and picked up that SWAT stick while trying to lift that car. I became the Great Pretender.

While acting like I was a college scholar, a big shot at my company, or a racing car driver, I really felt alive. I felt like a complete human being because my mind was hungry to be complete, like a child who wants to become a super hero. My lies were my super power and my reality was my kryptonite.

I liked the escape of not being who I was.  Abused and neglected. Deceived and tormented. Tortured and ridiculed. Worst of all, I was verbally accosted and left to play violent and damaging tapes of lies and pain. Pretending was an escape, which helped me not only overcome the pain I had been suffering, but allowed me to feel as though I were normal for a while. It made me feel like I was a human being. Something I’d yearned to feel like for so many years.  These incidents happened so quickly and many years have passed. But today the memories are still haunting.

In the past I had embraced my desire to be something I’m not. But today I will seek to be someone who makes me feel complete. I will no longer wear the mask I had worn for so many years. I will seek truth in myself and accept what has transpired throughout my life. But I will continue to pretend, now in a fun and joyful manner; because yesterday, today, and tomorrow, I am, deep inside, the Great Pretender.

 

Pacheco and Su Win Walnut City Election

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

Walnut- The results are in and Bob Pacheco and Mary Su beat challenger Betty Tang in one of the worst elections in Walnut History.

“We won, the people of Walnut have decided to bring us back to continue the great things we’ve accomplished here in Walnut.” Said Councilman Bob Pacheco at the victory party.
The line challenger, Betty Tang, raised almost $100,000 to beat the incumbents but fell hundreds of votes short.

“Nine hit pieces against me, NINE,” said winner Mary Su. “This is far too many and in our wonderful city. We are happy to defeat such an ugly campaign.”
Results are posted on the city of Walnut website.

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Walnut: Voters Flooded With Attack Ads Prior To City Election

By Michael Armijo

Walnut – With the Walnut City Council race nearing Election Day this coming Tuesday, April 8, the registered voters of Walnut are being flooded with not only the usual political advertising from the candidates, but also attack ads that are targeting the three candidates found on the ballot – Councilwoman Mary Su, Councilman Bob Pacheco and challenger Betty Tang.

Two political organizations are sponsoring these attack ads.  One of the organizations is Citizens to Protect Walnut, led by long-time Walnut resident, Phillip Bennett.  Bennett’s organization has been active in the last three Walnut City Council races.   The second group mailing out political “hit pieces” calls itself, “Taxpayers for Quality Leadership.”

According to their information on the Fair Political Practices Commission website (FPPC.ca.gov), Taxpayers for Quality Leadership (FPPC ID1361185) was established on October 7, 2013 and is controlled by Lisa Buchanan of Elk Grove, a suburb in Sacramento.  The PAC’s Treasurer is lawyer Gary Crummitt, who has an office in Long Beach.  Telephone messages left for Buchanan and Crummitt by our staff, asking why their political action committee was interested in the Walnut City Council election, have gone unanswered.

The campaign literature being distributed by Citizens to Protect Walnut has specialized in negative literature targeting candidate Tang, but it has also been sending out rebuttals to the attacks on Council Member Mary Su that have been sponsored by Taxpayers for Quality Leadership.  When asked why he was so involved in this year’s Walnut City Council race, Bennett replied,  “I think Mary Su and Bob Pacheco are doing a fine job, and for some reason there seems to be a lot of outside money involved in this year’s election.  I want to make sure Walnut remains in the hands of people who actually live here.”

Attack ads distributed by Taxpayers for Quality Leadership have so far only targeted Council Member Su, despite the fact that Su and Pacheco are sharing a campaign office and made it clear they are running as a team.  Asked why she felt she is the only incumbent councilmember being attacked by Taxpayers for Quality Leadership, Su said, “I can only assume there is someone with access to lots of money who is determined to remove me from office for their own political reasons, but that person is afraid to be openly associated with it.  If my enemy is from the Chinese community they know very well that most of the Chinese community will immediately turn on them if their identity becomes known.”

And a lot of money it appears to be. According to the City of Walnut website, Betty Tang’s campaign contributions are now up to $96,937. This is the current total even after Tang returned five campaign contributions she received illegally (see www.anapr.com for related stories). But interestingly enough, Tang loaned her campaign $15,000, which leaves $81,000 worth of contributions. Of that $81,000, almost 80% are from addresses outside of Walnut. In addition to the $81,000, the outside group, Taxpayers for Quality Leadership, has contributed almost $11,000 in spending against Tang’s opponents.

Other interesting tidbits about Taxpayers for Quality Leadership: According to the FPPC, the committee also filed two 462 “Verification of Independent Expenditures” reports on Oct. 22, 2013, citing their support/opposition for candidates. In the first report, Michael Lewis signed both documents stating “in support of Margaret Finlay, Tzeitel Paras-Caracci, and Sheryl Lefmann for City Council Member for the City of Duarte,” and “in opposition of Phil Reyes,” for the same November 2013 election. The report also states “in support of Cary C. Chen and Lynne Ebenkamp for Board Member for Roland Unified School District,” (http://fppc.ca.gov/form462/2013/city/1361185_10222013.pdf). Why this group has an interest in Walnut remains unanswered.

Election Day is this Tuesday, April 8.  Be sure to make an educated decision and vote for those who you feel would best represent you as a resident.

WV Board Appoints Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Dr. Matthew Witmer

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Dr. Matthew Witmer

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees approved Dr. Matthew Witmer as the new Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services during the February 19 meeting.

Dr. Witmer has a strong background in the area of curriculum and instruction, and has led the transition into Common Core State Standards. The veteran educator brings 18 years of experience to his new post, which he formally assumed on March 3.

“Dr. Witmer possesses the leadership qualities, technical knowledge of the position, and proven ability to perform effectively in this administrative role,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor. “I look forward to working with Dr. Witmer. He will make a great addition to the Walnut Valley family,” he added.

Since 2012, Dr. Witmer served as Director of Educational Services in the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD). He was responsible for all areas of the division in the 54,000-student district. During his tenure, CNUSD was selected as a 2012 and 2013 finalist district of the Broad Prize for Urban Education.

Additionally, Dr. Witmer is an adjunct Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of California, Irvine Extension, and Azusa Pacific University. Prior to that, he worked as an associate professor, director, interim program director, principal, assistant principal, and teacher. Dr. Witmer received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University.

“The reputation of the Walnut Valley Unified School District has been outstanding for a long time, and I look forward to supporting our students’ learning and contributing to the district’s future success,” said Dr. Witmer.

 

Walnut Council Corner

 

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Wednesday’s City Council meeting was packed with presentations that included recognition for the City’s Neighborhood Watch captains, the business of the quarter, and Walnut’s title as Tree City USA.

City Council members started off the meeting by recognizing Walnut CrossFit as the business of the quarter, for its health impact as well as providing a quality institution.

“For this quarter we selected Walnut CrossFit and the owners,” Mayor Tony Cartagena said. “Walnut CrossFit has been in business for over four years and has grown tremendously; so much so that they’ve had to relocate to larger quarters four times.” Mayor Cartagena said the business has done a good job in providing a quality fitness center to Walnut residents of all ages.

The City Council then recognized more than 20 captains for Walnut’s Neighborhood Watch program and their service in helping to keep the city safe. Cartagena encouraged Walnut residents to join their local Neighborhood Watch, claiming that it is a fun hobby which yields a safe atmosphere. Each captain was given a water bottle and a certificate honoring their dedication.

Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Tragarz thanked the Neighborhood Watch captains for helping support the Walnut Sherriff’s Department in keeping the City safe, and wished that each block had a Neighborhood Watch captain.

Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department Captain Jeff Scroggin and Deputy Doug Daley were presented with shirts embroidered with the City of Walnut logo for their service to the City in cooperation with the Neighborhood Watch program.

“I’m finally official,” Daley joked as he opened his gift.

Walnut High School’s Science Olympiad Team attended the City Council meeting to be commended for winning second place at the Los Angeles County Science Olympiad Team Competition at Occidental College.

“By being on this team you’re building a solid foundation,” Cartagena said about the academic excellence that he expected from the nine students being commended.

Suzanne Middle School was also recognized during the meeting; however they were not in attendance.

After the presentations and public comment, City Council members approved the Feb. 26 Council minutes, as well as the two items on the consent calendar: Resolution No. 14-14, allowing the City of Walnut certain claims and demands in the amount of $828,033.12; and the request by Canning Hunger for a non-profit solicitation permit and waiver of the business license tax.

The City Council members then adjourned with plans to meet on April 9 at 7 p.m. in the City Council’s Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

WALNUT: Mt. SAC Students Named to State Academic Teams

 

(Google Images)

(Google Images)

BY: STAFF REPORTS

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio Collect students Brian Yu and Cynthia Robinson are two of the 76 community college students throughout the state that were recently selected for the 2014 All-California Academic teams, selected by Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international community college honor society.

Yu and Robinson, both students in Mt. SAC’s Honors Program, will receive medallions during the Community College League of California awards ceremony to be held on April 3 at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento. Selection for the academic teams is based on grades, leadership, and community service.  Yu, 19, is an English major and carries a 3.93 GPA. He was selected for the All-California Academic First Team, the highest honor. A Walnut resident, he has served as a mentor for the Honors Program on campus and is a co-founder of the campus transfer club STEP. He was also a member of college’s championship forensics team last year and won three medals at the state championship. Off campus, he has raised over $180,000 as a volunteer for cancer research as part of Walnut’s Relay for Life board. In 2012, he was honored as a “Voice of Democracy” by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Association. He plans to transfer to Stanford or UCLA and eventually become a screenwriter.  Robinson, a 30-year-old mother of two, is a Horticulture major and carries a 3.76 GPA. She was selected for the All-California Academic Third Team. A Rancho Cucamonga resident, she served as Vice President of Scholarships for PTK on campus, and also served on the college’s InterClub Council. Off campus, she volunteers as a horticulturalist for the University of California Cooperative Extension Program. She also works as a horticulturalist for the non-profit Incredible Edibles Community Garden in Upland. She plans to pursue her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Horticulture at either Oregon State or U.C. Davis.

Sheriff’s Booster Club Annual Golf Classic

 

 

Photo Courtesy: Google Images Western Hills Country Club, Chino Hills

Photo Courtesy: Google Images
Western Hills Country Club, Chino Hills

Staff Reports

The Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club is hosting their Annual Golf Classic on Monday, April 7, at the Western Hills Country Club in Chino Hills (1800 Carbon Canyon Road).

According to Captain Jeff Scroggin of the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station, the Sheriff’s Booster Club is a non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to provide much needed equipment and logistical support to the Volunteers, Explorers, Reserve Deputy Sheriffs and Disaster Communication Specialists. Station Volunteers provide thousands of hours to help uphold the mission of the department and serve the community. Your tax deductible donation or sponsorship will help purchase equipment and supplies for all of the Volunteer Programs to be successful.

This year’s Annual Golf Classic is dedicated to the President of the Walnut-Diamond Sheriff’s Booster Club, Dr. Jeffrey Lowe, who passed away recently. Dr. Lowe, who was a local chiropractor, spent countless hours in support of the community as a former Diamond Bar Rotary President, past board member of the Diamond Bar Chamber of Commerce, and local business man. He was also a San Bernardino County Sheriff Reserve Deputy for over 20 years.

Tournament registration will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., and shotgun start will begin at 11:30 a.m. An awards luncheon will immediately follow the tournament, where all tee prizes will be awarded. Golf competitions include Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, and Hole-in-One.

Sponsorship opportunities include: Platinum Sponsor for $3,000; Gold Sponsor for $2,000; and Silver Sponsor for $1,000 (these packages include golf rounds and recognition). There are additional sponsorship opportunities available.

For more information on sponsorships or to register to play in this very special tournament, contact Booster Club Member, Gil Rivera at (909) 967-4525, or Gil.Rivera@verizon.net.

 

Voluntary Water Supply Reduction for WV Water District

Staff Reports

Walnut – Despite rainstorms a few weeks ago, California is still experiencing record drought conditions. Governor Brown has called for a statewide reduction in water use, and in response, the Walnut Valley Water District’s Board of Directors has adopted a resolution requesting a 20% voluntary reduction in water usage by all District’s customers.

When asked about the District’s adoption of the voluntary water conservation effort, Board President, Barbara Carrera, stated , “With the ongoing lack of rain and snowfall throughout the state, the Walnut Valley Water District is stepping up our response to the drought and recommending that all of our customers continue to do their part in conserving water.” Director Carrera went on to state, “The good news is the Walnut Valley Water District expects to have adequate water supplies for 2014 as the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD), the District’s regional water supplier, has announced no water restrictions for this year.”

Mike Holmes, Walnut Valley Water District General Manager indicated, “The reason for this water supply assurance is that MWD, along with many other water agencies, including our District, have been very active in preparing for droughts by capturing and storing imported supplies in “wet years” in order to maintain a reliable system during the dry cycles such as this year.” “Further”, he stated, “In addition to the District’s extensive water education and conservation programs for District customers, over the last 30 years, our District also has invested millions of customers’ dollars in a recycled water system that currently offsets our potable water usage by approximately 10% of our total water purchases. Our customers have also been averaging a 15% reduction in their water use, so this along with our recycled water system, shows we are conserving water.”

President Carrera concluded her remarks by stating, “On behalf of the District’s Board of Directors, I would personally like to thank all of our customers for their on-going water conservation efforts over the years. This resolution is to officially request our good customers to also respond to the Governor’s call to voluntarily increase their conservation efforts and to continue to “Use Water Wisely.”

For further information on ways to conserve, rebate programs available, or general information about the drought, visit the District’s website at http://www.wvwd.com or call the District’s customer service staff at (909) 595-1268

Walnut: Allegations of Yard Sign Theft Continue

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – As Walnut’s April 8 municipal election approaches, allegations of campaign sign thefts among Council Member Mary Su, Council Member Bob Pacheco and candidate Betty Tang have escalated to the level of formal complaints filed with the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station, as well as public statements by campaign members.

According to De’Andre Valencia, Mary Su’s campaign manager, an official theft complaint was filed with the Sheriff’s Department on Saturday, March 22, after an anonymous source called Su’s office to say he was driving behind two individuals traveling in a grey/silver Volkswagen Jetta, who were stopping along the road to allegedly steal Su’s campaign signs.

“We filed a police report and we’re leaving it at that,” Valencia said. “We’re just hoping Tang’s workers stop being ridiculous. We’re focusing on the campaign right now and not letting these thefts distract us.”

Captain Jeff Scroggin of the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station said no arrests have been made, but the responding Deputy did discover six of Mary Su’s campaign signs in a dumpster immediately behind Tang’s campaign office located on Valley Boulevard.  However, Scroggin said there was insufficient evidence linking the thefts to Tang’s campaign crew to make an arrest.

Samuel Liu, Tang’s campaign manager, said he was fed up with the allegations of stolen signs and that Su’s campaign crew is attempting to lead citizens away from the politics of the campaign and instead focusing on campaign tactics to distract Walnut residents.

“We don’t know anything about missing yard signs and we have our own police reports we filed for missing signs,” Liu said. “When we filed our police report, which was for a hundred yard signs, they [the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station] never followed up. Then when some of Mary Su’s yard signs go missing, a Deputy Sheriff comes to our office, and so we feel like some candidates are getting favoritism.”

Liu said Tang’s campaign also filed a report on Sunday, March 23 for more missing signs, the day after Su’s complaint was filed.  Liu did not explain how Mary Su’s yard signs ended up in the dumpster immediately behind Tang’s campaign office.

Meanwhile, at Wednesday evening’s City Council meeting, several Walnut citizens showed up to complain about individuals trespassing on their property to place Tang campaign signs on their lawn without permission (see this story at www.anapr.com).

The Walnut election will be held on Tuesday, April 8.

Job job job: Executive Assistant

Executive Assistant – Eastvale Chamber of Commerce (Eastvale)
compensation: $16-$18/ Hour DOE
contract job part-time
non-profit organization app deadline 4/7

Executive Assistant to the Board
Job Summary:
Assist the Board of Directors with the overall running of the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce.
Oversee the planning, marketing and execution of all Chamber events. Act as the liaison between
all Chamber members and the BOD to communicate member wants and needs as well as member
feedback.

Essential Functions:
1. Responsible for accounting functions including billing and membership accounting, preparing deposits, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, generating financial reports, completing tax forms and other financial record keeping. QuickBooks is utilized for accounting functions.
2. Oversee the planning, marketing and execution of all Chamber events (i.e. Morning and Evening Mixers, Quarterly events, Ribbon Cuttings, Grand Openings, etc.)
3. Coordinate and facilitate bi-weekly Board Meetings by creating the meeting agenda and recording minutes that are to be distributed no later than the Tuesday after each Board meeting.
4. Must attend and emcee ALL Chamber hosted events listed above.
5. Must work in conjunction with the Ambassador Co-Chairs in order to coordinate Ambassador volunteer help at Chamber events.
6. Must work in conjunction with the Marketing Assistant/Recruiter to recruit and retain new and existing members and volunteers.
7. Work in conjunction with the Marketing Assistant/ Recruiter to manage the Chamber Website and online media presence.
8. Maintain Chamber brand image by presenting oneself as well as the organization in a professional and distinguished manner.
9. Maintain exceptional customer service for all current and potential members by acting as the point person for all Chamber inquiries as well as assisting members with questions and concerns.
10. Operate and maintain the Chamber business phone during normal business operating hours.
11. Properly relay information to the correct Board Member for expedited responses to ensure that all Chamber matters are being handled effectively and in a time-bound manner.

*May be required to perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors or Chamber Support Staff

Requirements:
• Must be able to dedicate a minimum of 25-28 hours per week to Chamber focused initiatives
• Must submit invoices in an accurate and timely manger (Bi-Monthly — 1st & 15th )
• Must attend 85% of Chamber functions throughout the year
• Must have proficiency in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office Suite
• Must have a background in one of the following:
o Marketing
o Public Relations
o Management
o Communications
o Human Resources
o Customer Service

Purpose:
The purpose of the Executive Assistant to the Board is to bridge the gap between the members of the Chamber and the Board of Directors. This position is to act as the point person for all questions, comments and concerns while redirecting members and potential members to the right resources for their needs. The Executive Assistant to the Board is to be seen as the face to the Chamber and should spearhead all current Chamber events as well as provide new and innovative events that build membership value and Chamber membership base.
Respond to this link:
http://inlandempire.craigslist.org/ofc/4398146558.html

Walnut: Annual Family Science Night

Chocolate

Discover the Sweet Science of Chocolate (photo courtesy: Google Images)

PRESS RELEASE

FAMILY SCIENCE NIGHT in WALNUT

“SWEET SCIENCE”

WALNUT, Calif.— The City of Walnut Community Services Department is hosting its Annual Family Science Night on Friday, March 28, 2014 from 6:30pm-8:30pm at the Walnut Senior Center. Come and explore the exciting world of chocolates, sodas, and candies with sweet hands-on experiments that are fun for the entire family. Participants will also have an opportunity to view a live, “Chemical Reactions,” demonstration from our friends at Mad Science. So come and discover the wonders and science behind everyone’s favorite treats!

Pre-sale registration is available now for only $10.00 per family (four people per family within the same immediate family) and $12.00 on the day of the event.

Family Science Night is located at the Walnut Senior Center at 21215 La Puente Road, Walnut, California 91789. For more information, please contact the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200.

 

Walnut: Complaints About Tang Signs Reach Walnut City Hall and Sheriff Station

Staff Reports

Walnut – With the Walnut City Council campaigns drawing closer to Election Day on April 8, the past week saw numerous complaints filed at Walnut City Hall and the Walnut Sheriff’s Station about supporters of Betty Tang trespassing on private property and placing their political signs on private lawns without permission.
Walnut resident Gary Lin reports that Tang came to his home in February to personally ask permission to display her sign on his lawn next to the existing signs for Bob Pacheco and Mary Su. Lin, who lives on Avenida Amadis near Vons on Lemon Avenue, said he declined because he was voting for Pacheco and Su. Afterwards, Lin says his neighbor notified him that someone had placed a Tang sign on the side of his yard.
Lin says another sign appeared on the side of his yard two weeks later after he refused to accept a Tang sign from individuals walking through his neighborhood. Finally, on March 16, someone placed a Tang sign on Lin’s front yard without his permission. “These people do not respect us and our private property rights,” Lin said. “They just do whatever they want. It has happened to other people, not just me. A lot of people are having the same problem.”
Lin says the most recent act of trespassing on his property prompted him to call the Walnut Sheriff’s Station to file a formal complaint about Tang’s supporters illegally placing signs.
Walnut resident Phil Bennett reports he witnessed two individuals placing Tang signs on every yard along Loyalton Drive around 10 p.m. on March 14. “It was well after dark. I just happened to be walking through my kitchen and saw two people on my front yard,” Bennett said. “I have signs for Su and Pacheco and I thought they might have been taking the signs down. I walked out and they were putting signs up for Tang in my yard and on my neighbor’s yard across the street.” Bennett said he went down to Tang’s campaign office on Valley Boulevard the next day to confront Tang and her campaign crew, telling them it was a “shame” they were placing their signs on private property without consent of the homeowners.
Other Walnut residents known to have complained to City Hall or the Sheriff’s Station about Tang signs being place on their property without permission include Arcel Punsalang, Rhonda and Jim Melton, and Keith Walton. Another citizen photographed a Tang sign that had been placed directly in front of the fire hydrant at Carrey Road and Commerce Way.
Samuel Liu, Tang’s campaign manager, denied the allegations of any improperly placed signs and said he would not stand for any “shenanigans” involving poor campaign tactics.
Liu said he was unaware of who was improperly placing Tang’s signs and that a large number of their campaign signs had been moved onto city property without his permission.
Liu said he knows that someone is stealing and moving their signs because one of Tang’s friends woke up to find 15 campaign signs on her front lawn. Liu claims that the “sign wars” in Walnut are nothing more than a smokescreen for the real policy issues in the City Council campaign. (Michael Armijo and Raymond Mendoza contributed to this story)