Tag Archives: City of Walnut

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – Mayor Pacheco began the Oct. 14 Walnut City Council meeting by recognizing the recently retired Assistant Chief Fire Director Dave Stone. The Council thanked Stone for his invaluable commitment and tireless work keeping Walnut safe, and wished him a happy and peaceful retirement.

Following the presentation, two ordinances were approved by the Council: one ordinance amended the City’s municipal code regarding purchase and sale of equipment and supplies; the other amended the City’s municipal code regarding the drawing of warrants. The amendments to the municipal code were a response to Councilmember Tragarz’s concern over the lack of checks and balances in the Council, as the City Attorney and City Manager were able to draw warrants without bringing the warrants before the Council.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including the minutes from the Sept. 23 City Council meeting; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,094,204.78; a resolution to deny Verizon’s plans to construct a new wireless telecommunication facility; final tract maps for Francesca Senior Housing; awarding a bid of $46,980 for storm drain maintenance; a memorandum of understanding between the Los Angeles County and the City regarding the administration and cost sharing for a coordinated integrated monitoring program for the upper San Gabriel River watershed; and a request for formal bids for auditing services.

The Council also approved waiving all applicable City fees for the destruction and subsequent reconstruction of the San Jose Hills road walls located at 20648, 20630, 20624, and 20618 Loyalton Drive. The Council also discussed Mt. San Antonio College’s plans to construct a photovoltaic solar system, and how to cease construction on the site. Many residents expressed concern over the aesthetics and increased traffic on the intersection of Grand and Temple, and the Council agreed that action was necessary against the project.

Walnut Happenings

Staff Reports

Walnut– This week, Walnut is gearing up for the holiday season with the Walnut Valley Women’s Club hosting their annual Tree of Lights fundraising sale starting Oct. 29 at the Von’s supermarket, on Lemon Avenue, selling holiday ornaments to raise scholarship funds for local high school seniors. Fundraising sales will be held every Thursday through November, except for Thanksgiving. Sales will also take place on Dec. 3 and 4.  Club members will be selling lights for $5 and ornaments for $10 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. All proceeds go toward scholarships for 2016 graduates of Walnut and Nogales High Schools.
The more the merrier is the saying Mt. San Antonio College’s Student Life Office is gearing up for when they host a Community Volunteer Fair for local organizations on Nov. 19. The Fair assists organizations in recruiting student volunteers especially with the busy holidays around the corner.

The Volunteer Fair will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., on campus just north of the library and west of the Student Life Center, building 9C.
The fair provides an opportunity for students to engage in public service, obtain hands-on learning experiences, and make a difference in the community. Participants include AmeriCorps, Inland Empire United Way, the Learning Centers at Fairplex, the City of Pomona, the City of Walnut, the Latino Diabetes Association, the Pomona Courthouse, Holy Families Hospice, VITAS Innovative Hospice Care, and more.
Community organizations that would like to participate should call the Mt. SAC Student Life Office at (909) 274-5953.

Walnut: Collegewood Kids Learn About Traffic Safety

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Collegewood Elementary students learned about traffic safety with parents driving in cardboard cars on September 25.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut— Collegewood Elementary students got a lesson in traffic safety last month.

A crew of Community Club volunteers used cardboard cars to demonstrate the rules.

Principal Joan Perez announced the lesson for transitional-kindergarten (TK) through 2nd grade students on the front lawn of the school.

“We want to keep all of you safe when you come to school and go home each day,” she said.

In the first skit, parents Betsy Castellanos and Loi Ay demonstrated the no stopping in the red zone rule.

The misguided driver, Ay, swung his tiny convertible around traffic to the red crosswalk curb.

Castellanos, playing the backpack-carrying student, exited the car with a worried look on her face.

After each entertaining skit, Perez quizzed youngsters about the rules.

“What did they do wrong?” she asked.

“They stopped in the red zone!” the student answered.

“There is NO stopping in the red zone! If it’s red, move ahead!” Perez exclaimed.

“If it’s red, move ahead!” the 200 students repeated.  The parents then modeled how to use the correct white-zone area for dropping off and picking up students.

“We just want to educate the kids on the right way to make our school safer,” Castellanos shared.

“And we want to be funny enough for them to remember it!”

Next, parents showed the wrong way to get out of the car.

A bright blue car pulled up to the white curb on Collegewood Drive and the student stepped out onto the street.

“No feet on the street!” corrected Perez.

The principal explained the dangers of double parking – when one car is on the white curb and another car parked in the street.

“And that is not OK!” Perez urged. “Do we ever get out in the middle of the street? No!”

“If you double, it means trouble,” the children and their principal rhymed.

“He could have gotten run over,” said one youngster.

Another volunteer duo in a black-flamed cutout showed students the need to be “quick as light” when exiting the car.

When they pulled up the white curb, the mother took unnecessary time brushing her daughter’s hair and taking a photo while cars waited behind them. The children howled watching the silly adults.

Volunteers demonstrated crosswalk safety when one parent got in trouble making a U-turn in the middle of the street.

The crossing guard scolded the driver when he endangered two mothers with children inside the bright yellow lines.

“I think this safety lesson is important because we often have a lot of congestion in front of Collegewood,” said third grade parent Xochitl Syrett.

“All our parents need to read the signs, pay attention, and drive cautiously,” Rebecca Durani, a fifth grade parent, said.

Annual Walnut Family Festival, Oct. 10

Photo Courtesy of the City of Walnut Watch local equestrian groups such as the Rising Hope Ranch (pictured) and the Walnut Valley Riders parade through the streets of Walnut in celebration of the 39th annual Walnut Family Festival Event this Saturday, Oct. 11.

Photo Courtesy of the City of Walnut
Watch local equestrian groups such as the Rising Hope Ranch (pictured) and the Walnut Valley Riders parade through the streets of Walnut in celebration of the 39th annual Walnut Family Festival Event this Saturday, Oct. 11.

Family Fun Featuring Parade, Kid’s Fun Zone and Live Music

 

By Alicia Jensen

Walnut– The 39th Annual Walnut Family Festival is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 10, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Suzanne Park, located at 625 Suzanne Rd in Walnut. The Festival highlights include a Community Parade (with free giveaways and prizes for the audience) Live Entertainment, Kid’s Fun Zone (with special guests from the movie “Frozen” – Elsa and Anna of Arendelle), Food Booths, Arts & Crafts vendors as well as a variety of service clubs, youth organizations, businesses, and environmental services, all aimed at improving your quality of life in Walnut.

The day kicks off with the annual Pancake Breakfast at 8 a.m., followed by a parade down La Puente Road. Then the fun and entertainment kicks into high gear at Suzanne Park.

Arrive early to get the best seats along the parade route. The Festival Parade starts at 10 a.m. The parade route moves east along La Puente Road from Lemon Avenue to Suzanne Road.  Parade highlights include the Wells Fargo Stage Coach, Walnut High School Marching Band, Walnut Valley Riders, LA Extreme Cheer, AYSO, community floats, and much more.

Live entertainment kicks off on the Valley Vista Stage at 12 p.m. featuring special musical performances by DSB (Journey Tribute Band) from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Box Car 7 playing the best in R&B, classic rock and swing from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.; and The Filharmonic from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., an acapella group as seen on TV show “The Sing Off” and movie “Pitch Perfect 2”.

There will be plenty of fun kid activities with carnival attractions, a petting zoo, race car train rides, special guest appearances and a sing-a-long with Queen Elsa and Princess Anna of Arendelle.

The food court will feature several non-profit groups cooking up an assortment of delicious foods while earning money for worthy causes. Come enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Walnut/Diamond Bar Lions Club will be flipping flapjacks from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. so you can get a great start on a jam-packed day of fun.

Join us for a day of fabulous food, terrific entertainment, wonderful exhibits and lots of fun!

For more information about the Festival, call the Walnut Community Services at (909) 598-5605.

Photo Courtesy of the City of Walnut

Photo Courtesy of the City of Walnut

Walnut: Citizens Oppose Mt. SAC Solar Farm

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Residents once again spoke during the public comment section of the latest Walnut City Council meeting to disagree with Mount San Antonio College; however, this time complaints were made not against the ongoing concerns about a proposed parking structure.

This time, residents were opposed to the location of a planned “solar farm” project that would have the college integrate a 2.2 megawatt, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic system, that could save the campus nearly half a million dollars in annual energy fees.

The location in contention is the Mt. SAC-owned property at the corner of Grand Avenue and Temple Avenue/Amar Road – which is commonly known as the “Christmas tree” lot – where Christmas trees, strawberries, and pumpkins are sold at different times of the year.

Walnut resident, Patrick Johnson, said the proposed solar farm looks bigger than any building that the college currently has, and called the proposed project, “disgusting.” Johnson stated that he knew several lawyers that could help stop the campus’ clean energy project.

Many of the residents that spoke out against the solar farm all shared the same sentiment – that they were “not against solar power,” but that Mt. SAC should not build the solar panels because the rows of panels would ruin the resident’s views of the hills, cause traffic congestion during its construction, and others even questioned if Mt. SAC had the authority to build the solar farm on their parcel of land.

Jill Dolan, Director of Public Affairs for Mt. San Antonio College, said the college administration has the best interest of the students and environment in mind, since the solar farm will help the campus on its way to energy independence.  The campus would save $480,000 in annual energy costs.

According to Dolan, the solar farm project has been a long-time objective for Mt. SAC, and that the campus did an Environmental Impact Report in 2013 which showed that the construction and finished solar farm would have “no new or exacerbated signification environmental impacts associated with the proposed project.”

As of Sept. 9, the college chose Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. to perform the construction of the venture, and is funding the $5 million project through Proposition 39 Clean Energy Funds, California Solar Incentive Funds, and California Energy Commission loans. Dolan said the college is planning to start construction in late spring/early summer of 2016.

“Mt. SAC is deeply committed to pursuing opportunities through which we can be thoughtful stewards of both the environment and taxpayers’ funds,” Dolan said. “Mt. SAC is proud to be a leader in energy efficiency and water conservation efforts, and we have been recognized at both the local and state level for our cost-savings accomplishments. This solar project would save the college nearly half a million dollars a year and move Mt. SAC even closer to energy independence.”

Due to the outcry of residents, however, the City Council members agreed to discuss the solar farm project during its Oct. 14 meeting.

Walnut Valley Board Honors Exemplary Students

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Vejar 5th Graders, Siarra Huang and Sunny Liu, were honored as Super Star Students during the Sept. 16 Board Meeting (shown with Board President Larry Redinger and Principal Jennifer De Anda).

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Vejar 5th Graders, Siarra Huang and Sunny Liu, were honored as Super Star Students during the Sept. 16 Board Meeting (shown with Board President Larry Redinger and Principal Jennifer De Anda).

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees honored stellar students and community members during the Sept. 16 meeting.

Evergreen Elementary 2nd Grader Brian Huang was lauded with the Super Star Student Award.  Last year, he won the 4th Place award in the 2015 National Elementary Chess Championship sponsored by the U.S. Chess Federation. Over 2,000 players representing 40 states vied in the contest held in Nashville, TN.

During a tourney exhibition, chess grand master, Irina Krush, the nation’s top female player, conducted 30 simultaneous games against the chess prodigies. She won 29 games and had one draw.

“And that was to Brian!” announced Principal Caroline Wills.

King’s Land Chess owners, Kiki and Leo Liu, were honored as Partners in Education for Evergreen Elementary.

“They are the company behind Brian’s achievement,” Wills added.

King’s Land Chess offers school programs and hosted a one-week chess camp during the summer. The couple also made a generous donation in support of the school.

Vejar Elementary parent, Lorena Trujillo, was recognized as a Partner in Education. The mother of three boys has been a dedicated volunteer at the school for over nine years.

“She is an active member of the community club and is always available to our support teachers,” said Principal Jennifer De Anda. “She has just been great at drawing the community together!”

Trujillo has also started a walking group with other moms in the mornings.

Vejar 5th Graders, Siarra Huang and Sunny Liu, were honored as Super Star Students.

Last year, the girls saw a need for recycling at the school. They felt the environment and animals had been impacted by all the trash. On their own, they researched, secured recycling bins, and promoted the program to students. This year, they have connected with student leaders and advisors for the Grades of Green trash-free program.

“Thank you for your service to Vejar and to our environment!” De Anda said.

Classified employee, Dori Valdez, a student data program specialist, received a special recognition during the meeting for outstanding support to the District.

“We can’t thank Dori enough for all that she does for our school district,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

The State of California requires detailed data for about 15,000 students and employees.

“Dori is the person that makes it all happen,” Dr. Taylor added.

The District has received numerous accolades for exceptional data management.

Valdez was also lauded by the state with the CALPADS Data Management Recognition.

Walnut Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – The Sept. 23 Walnut City Council meeting began with the recognition of Maintenance Supervisor, Kenny Martinez. Due to his efforts, Walnut remains verdant and beautiful despite the harsh drought, and the trees across the town remain healthy and strong because of his care. The Council also declared Oct. 10 as Arbor Day.

During Communications, numerous complaints were made about the solar farm project on Grand Ave. proposed by Mt. San Antonio College. One complaint was made by a resident of West Covina, who agreed with several other Walnut residents that the solar farm’s proposed location would deprive Walnut of the majesty of the hills and result in an “eyesore” along Grand Ave. Other complaints noted the increase in traffic in the already busy intersection of Amar Rd. and Grand Ave. that would occur if construction were approved.

“We’re not against solar,” one resident clarified, “we’re fighting the location.”

In response to the widespread unrest concerning the proposed location of the college’s solar farm, the Council agreed to make the solar farm an item on the agenda for the next meeting on Oct. 14.

Council then approved the minutes from the Aug. 26 Study Session; and after minor adjustments, approved the minutes from the Aug. 26 and Sept. 9 City Council meetings.

After the Public Hearing, the Council adopted a resolution amending the fees and charges for services provided by the Community Development Department. The Council also approved an ordinance amending the City’s municipal code concerning purchase and sale of equipment and supplies. A second ordinance concerning the City’s municipal code on the drawing of warrants was discussed, but ultimately was unsatisfactory to the Council. The ordinance will be revised and brought back in the Oct. 14 Council meeting. The Council also awarded a bid of $99,545.26 to Greenfields Outdoor Fitness to begin constructing outdoor fitness equipment in Creekside Park; and appointed Ben Zhang to the Youth Advisory Commission. The Council also adopted a resolution allowing $647,584.01 in claims and demands on a 3-1-1 vote – with Councilwoman Tragarz voting against on the grounds that the claims and demands in the resolution should have been covered in a separate item brought before the Council, and Councilman Ching abstaining.

The Council then approved all items on the Successor Agency Consent Calendar, including a resolution allowing $41,586 in claims and demands; approval of a Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule for Jan. to June 2016; and a resolution approving the administrative budget for Jan. to June 2016. The Council also approved a sale agreement with Standard Pacific Corporation.

A multitude of residents came together at the Council meeting to protest Verizon’s appeal of a site plan concerning a Monopine at 555 Gartel Dr. Residents from all walks of life argued against the Monopine –  from professors to mothers and fathers concerned for their children, even to 10-year olds disquieted by the potential telecommunication construction project – all voiced their concerns to the Council and refuted the need for another cell tower, especially at the proposed address of 555 Gartel Dr. In line with the sentiments expressed, the Council denied Verizon’s appeal.

The Council approved a 30-day extension of time for the rear wall found at 20638, 206230, 20624, and 20618 Loyalton Dr. in light of a new proposal brought to the Council. The Council will revisit the proposal and discuss further action at their next meeting.

Following individual comments and announcements, the meeting was adjourned until Oct. 14, at 7 p.m., at the City Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Rd.

An Interview With The Walnut Mayor

By Natalie Kim

Q:  As the only member of the City Council to have served on the State Assembly before, how different is the State Assembly from the Walnut City Council?

A:  Well, it’s substantially different, obviously. You’re part of 80 people in the State Assembly, and people are from all over the state. So you represent a different constituency. The 60th Assembly District, which is the one I was in, represented three counties: Orange County, Los Angeles County, and the San Bernardino County. It’s a huge area.

 

Q:  What part of Walnut are you most proud of?

A:  There are a couple things. When I was on the Council last time, we put into play several things that today are great for the city. We built the Teen Center gymnasium, we built the Senior Center, and we built the Starbucks center. Those are the three most prominent things we have in Walnut that have the greatest activity. I’m very pleased to be a part of that.

 

Q:  Is there anything you would change about Walnut if you could?

A:  No, I like Walnut the way it is. I like the atmosphere, I like the way the City is laid out, I like the fact that we have great parks and facilities for people to enjoy. The only thing we can do, that can be improvements, are to add onto those things. When I ran the last time, one of the things I urged was to build a swim complex over by Walnut Ranch, and we’re in process of beginning to do that. It will be a major area for swimming; for children playing in the water, for seniors to have a place to exercise in the water, a clubhouse, a place for people to gather, and then an ampitheater. We’re in the process now; we’re selling the land up there, and we’re using the proceeds to begin the development. The other thing we want to develop are shopping centers and to bring more restaurants into the City. The Albertson’s shopping center has been vacant for five years. It’s a blight on the City, and we want to redevelop that area. The thing that I want to do is [possibly] make that into an artist area. We have a lot of artists in the City and people don’t even know that. They gather here in City Hall and they do their painting. What I’d like to see done is bring in a major tenant and redo the whole area. Artist groups have a good idea of how to do that, so I want to bring them in and make that happen.

 

Q:  There’s been a lot of consternation surrounding your appointment as Mayor. Is there anything you would like to say to address that?

A:  I understand. I just call it politics – no matter where you are.  I’ve been in involved in politics at the local level, at the state level, and at the federal level. The thing that people don’t realize is that my appointment of Mayor is a selection by members of the City Council, not voters. Anyone can be Mayor. All it takes is three votes on the City Council. There have been at least four or five other occurrences where the people who were sitting as Mayor Pro Tem were passed [over]. So it’s not an unusual occurrence. I know people were saying that it was going against tradition.  The reality of it is many of the cities around us have the same situation. Many of the people on the City Council never get to be Mayor, because they get voted out. Bottom line is, I want to do what’s good for the City, and I want to treat people with respect, and I want the City Council to conduct its affairs in a respectful manner – which is, I think, the reason why the other members voted me in. We have not been having City Council acting in a respectful manner. It’s simply that. Yes, there were a number of people upset, but the reason people were upset was because Eric [Ching] was bypassed. I meet a lot of people, and most everyone I talk to is very happy I became Mayor. The Mayor is basically like a figurehead. They don’t really have power. They are a representative of the city. Somebody who is representing the city needs to act in a manner that is good for the city. I think that’s the only reason they selected me to be mayor; that I would be good for the City, and bring respect and more structure to the City Council.

 

Q:  What is your favorite and least favorite part of your job?

A:  I don’t really have a least favorite. My favorite part is really interacting with the public. I am very responsive. People call me or see me on the street, or in the grocery store, or at church, and ask me to do things or look into things. That is the real key of who you are as a representative of the City, is to be responsive to the needs of the citizens. That’s my most favorite part – interacting with the citizens, being responsive to them, and making sure the City is being run in a proper manner.

 

Q:  Do you have any advice for someone interested in running for City Council or beginning a career in politics?

A:  The first thing they need to do is be involved. If you want to be part of the city and a representative of the city, you must be involved and care about things that go on – which means you participate and volunteer.  You participate in things that may not be creating a big name for yourself, but make you part of a community. Sometimes people want to run, but they’ve never been in involved with anything. They haven’t served on any of the commissions, they haven’t done much in the way of participation in civic affairs, and then they want to be mayors or councilmen. You have to pay your dues, I think. I was on the Mayor’s Advisory Commission at first. After that, I was appointed to the City Planning Commission, and after that, I was elected to the City Council. Then, of course, I moved to the state legislature, and then I came back. But I participate. I participate in a lot of things. I started the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation. We give teacher grants, student grants, and we help the school district. We’ve raised nearly $2 million for the school district over almost 20 years now. That’s participating in the community. That’s giving back. At my church – St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church – I was one of the initial people helping to create the church, building and raising money, and all that. I’m part of the Lyon’s Club, and I work with the Chamber of Commerce.  And I work with other organizations; I’m doing an event for the Republican Women’s group at my house to raise their membership. These are things you have to do for the community. And then, when you’ve done that, then you can be part of the leadership.

 

Natalie Kim is a student at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut. She requested an interview with the new Mayor of Walnut, Bob Pacheco, and he readily agreed.

 

 

Walnut Valley High School Seniors Recognized

Diamond Bar, Walnut High Seniors Named National Merit Semifinalists

 

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – 38 Diamond Bar and Walnut High School seniors have been named Semifinalists in the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program. The nationwide pool of about 16,000 Semifinalists represents less than one percent of U.S. high school seniors in each state.

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

Diamond Bar High: Crystal Chang, Eric T. Chen, Janet Du, Ran Gu, Melody C. Guo, Charlene L. Hsu, Renee L. Kau, Jung Hyun Kim, Prince S. Kim, Gloria Lee, Felix Lien, Letitia So, Angela Song, Frances T. Song, Hsuan-Te Sun, Jonathan Sun, Kyle Wang, Margaret Wang, Ava Y. Wu, Frances Wu, Jennifer Wu, Claire Yang, Adele Zhang, Jeremy Tran.

Walnut High:  Alison Chang, Michelle Chang, Benjamin P Hang, Jane Kim, Brian Y. Ko, Alvin Li, Doris Li, Dardrin Qin, Dalton Trinh, Derek Wan, Angel T. Wong, Daniel Yoon, Freya Zhu, Maxwell L. Zhu.

About 1.5 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the 2016 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2014 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screen of program entrants. The number of Semifinalists in a state is proportional to the state’s percentage of the national total of graduating seniors.

These academically talented high school seniors will now have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,400 scholarships worth about $32 million that will be offered next spring by National Merit Scholarship Corporation, private companies, colleges, and foundations. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements including detailed applications, recommendations, essays, and SAT scores, to advance to the Finalist level of the competition.

Congratulations students, parents, and teachers on these outstanding accomplishments!

Walnut Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – Mayor Pacheco began the Sept. 9 Walnut City Council meeting with a commendation for Deputy Doug Daley, who has served in the Sheriff’s department for eight years. Daley assists and organizes several neighborhood watch programs, and is in charge of organizing security for events such as the Concerts in the Park, as well as traffic security and crime prevention presentations at local schools. The Council also presented a proclamation to Jodi Lepp, the 2015 Los Angeles County Fair Hero and Walnut Family Festival Grand Marshall. Lepp is the first Walnut resident to be named Los Angeles County Fair Hero, and she has more than earned it with her involvement in the community, ranging everywhere from assisting youth sports organizations to volunteering at school fundraisers.

The Council then approved the minutes from the Aug. 12 Council meeting, and opened the public hearing on a zoning ordinance concerning antennas and communications facilities. In response to residents’ desire for a stricter ordinance, the Council amended the ordinance to require a 1,500 foot distance between telecommunication poles and any school, park, or outdoor recreation facility, and a notification requirement when a new telecommunication structure is erected within 500 feet of City borders.

The Council approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including a resolution allowing $469,120.18 in claims and demands; an addendum to the City website development; the award of a bid for a street resurfacing project; the appointment of Monica Lin to the Youth Advisory Commission; and the appointment of Flora Coday-Lamb to the Senior Citizens Commission.

Next, the Council discussed term limits, a hot topic of debate for several months now. Council members saw both the good and the bad in term limits. Councilwoman Nancy Tragarz noted that, as with any job, the City Council has a learning curve, and limiting the time to serve on the Council may lead to those most effective at their job being forced out of office. However, as other Council members agreed, new blood and fresh ideas were important. Councilwoman Mary Su supported the idea of term limits, but was against the idea of term limits forcing a break from serving on the Council, rather than a hard limit of how long one could serve on the Council, as was proposed. Councilman Tony Cartagena was against term limits, as he felt that a Council Member’s time in office should be determined by voters as opposed to a predetermined limit. Both sides were considered, and the Council voted to put a three year term limit with a minimum two year break on the ballot of the next general election.

During reports and comments, the Council followed up on several complaints of vandalism in various parks and discussed the situation with the Sheriff’s Department. The perpetrators have not yet been found, but patrols have increased and a Detective has been assigned to the case. Tragarz also announced the Walnut Fair on Sept. 25.

The Council adjourned with plans to meet on Sept. 23, at 7 p.m., in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Rd.

 

Walnut: $400K Marijuana Seizure

Staff Reports

Walnut – On Wed., Sept. 9, at approximately 7 p.m., Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) narcotics investigators assigned to the Walnut/San Dimas team, utilized investigative resources that led them to a residence believed to be involved in the operation of an illegal marijuana grow and electrical theft.

Investigators conducted a surveillance operation and subsequently obtained and served a search warrant at a residence located in the 20200 block of Burnt Tree Lane, in the City of Walnut.

According to LASD, an elaborate and dangerous marijuana grow system was discovered at the location where approximately $2,000 in U.S. currency and 403 marijuana plants at various stages of growth were seized.  Equipment used in the production of illegal marijuana and other equipment used to attempt to prevent the odor from filtering out of the residence were also documented at the location.

The illegal marijuana grow was precariously wired, creating an extremely dangerous fire hazard due to the large amount of electrical energy which could become overloaded.

Southern California Edison employees were notified of the dangerous fire hazard created by the illegal wiring.  After quickly responding, they turned off the power to the residence and rendered it safe.

Two male adults were arrested. The combined street value of the marijuana plants is estimated at close to $400,000.

The investigation is on-going and there is no additional information available at this time.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Walnut Station, Detective Mertens, at (909) 595-2264. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

Walnut Valley Middle Schools Are Golden

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Walnut Valley middle schools set the Gold standard – Chaparral, South Pointe, and Suzanne have been named 2015 California Gold Ribbon Schools for having exemplary standards and practices.

“This is an honor that we at Chaparral are very proud of,” Principal Ron Thibodeaux stated. “We’ve put a lot into making our school a 21st century learning environment, and the Gold Ribbon validates the hard work of our learning community. Our teachers and staff, parents and students are wonderful!”

According to the Walnut Valley Unified School District, the state’s highest recognition went to only 373 of the 10,366 public schools. In addition, all three schools were distinguished for having Exemplary Programs in Arts Education.

Gold ribbon schools were cited for best practices that can be replicated by other schools. WVUSD programs include the 21st Century Classroom Initiative at Chaparral, STEAM Program at South Pointe, and Global Citizenship at Suzanne.

This was the first year the state issued gold ribbon awards that temporarily replace the California Distinguished Schools Program while officials create new assessment and accountability systems.

“South Pointe is proud to be recognized by the state for its innovative approach to implementing 21st century Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math programs,” said Principal Susan Arzola. “We believe that by putting the “A” (the Arts) in STEM, we provide all students a well-balanced, joyful learning experience. Come watch them STEAM ahead!”

Walnut Student Awarded Scholarship

Staff Reports

Walnut – Shawn Wu, of Walnut, has been awarded a 2015-16 Stater Bros. Markets Scholarship in the amount of $1,500 through the California Grocers Association Educational Foundation (CGAEF).

Wu graduated from Walnut High School in 2014.  He will attend UC Riverside this fall and major in Business Informatics.  Wu’s accomplishments include winning 3rd Place for Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) 2013 Sectionals; 1st Place for FBLA 2014 Sectionals; AP Scholar with Honor award; National Financial Literary Challenge; AP Scholar with Distinction Award; and UCR’s Chancellor’s Scholarship.

Foundation scholarships are awarded annually to college students who are either employees or dependents of employees of California Grocers Association member companies, such as State Bros. Markets.

College scholarships are awarded on academic merit, evidence of outstanding character and leadership potential.  Applicants must enroll at an accredited, nonprofit college or university in the United States in the fall of 2015.

This year, the CGAEF awarded 327 scholarships totaling a record $552,500.  Since the program’s inception, the Foundation has awarded more than $4 million in scholarships.

“We are proud to award college scholarships to these deserving students,” said CGAEF President, Ronald Fong. “We are encouraged by their desire, drive and determination to obtain a higher education and are grateful to assist in that cause.”

For more information regarding the Foundation and its programs, visit ccgaef.org.

Walnut Council Recap

Photo Courtesy: Natalie Kim

Photo Courtesy: Natalie Kim
Joelle Julve (shown with fiance, Danny), Assistant Planner, is recognized by the Walnut City Council.

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – The Aug. 26 Walnut City Council meeting began with two presentations. The first was for Joelle Julve, in recognition of her outstanding work as Assistant Planner. The second was for the Chinese American Association of Walnut, in recognition of 26 years of sharing and celebrating Chinese traditions and culture with the residents of Walnut.

Following the Communications, the Council approved the minutes of the July 22 meeting, and performed the first reading of an ordinance to amend the City’s current regulation on antennas and communication facilities, requiring a greater distance from schools and residential areas. The ordinance is set for a second reading and public hearing on Sept. 9.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including an allowance of $884,330.06 in claims and demands; authorization to destroy certain records pursuant to Resolution No. 01-18; the award of a bid to All City Management for school crossing guard services; and appointed Jackie Chan, Codie Chang, Renee Hua, Sarah Kim, Robert Lee, Candice Ma, and Paula Yang to the Youth Advisory Commision. The Council also waived parking restrictions on La Puente Road for the evening of Sept. 5 in light of Mt. Sac’s football game hosted at the Walnut High School football field, to prevent overflow parking from clogging residential streets. The Council will discuss waiving parking restrictions on same such evenings for the rest of the season on Sept. 9, after observing traffic and overflow parking on Sept. 5.

Next, the Council moved to discussion and transaction items. Term limits, which Walnut residents have been claiming are long overdue for the City, was the first item discussed. Although all members of the Council agreed that new blood and new ideas led to a better City and a better City government, some also expressed concern over possible drawbacks of term limits, such as a City Council that was unable to effectively run due to lack of expertise. The Council will vote to put term limits on the April 2016 ballot during its next meeting on Sept. 9. The Council also approved a utilization of $6,000 from the General Fund reserve to print and distribute a City-wide mailer notifying Walnut residents of the current state of the Mt. Sac parking structure, and Mt. Sac’s future plans concerning the structure. The Council also allowed the Planning Commission additional time to approve a tentative tract map for the development of a two lot subdivision of undeveloped land.

After reports and comments, the Council adjourned.  The next meeting will be held on Sept. 9, at 7 p.m., in the Council Chambers located at 21202 La Puente Road.

Top Quality Auto Body Repair and Towing

03 10 x 3 75 05-16-08 Ad for publication.pubBy J.D. Alberts

Walnut – For over 25 years, California Coach Auto Collision has served its community with top notch repair and assistance services, reaching from “Diamond Bar to Chino and beyond.”

Under original ownership, California Coach takes great pride in their quality service reputation and understands the importance of automotive safety. Their highly trained, certified mechanical technicians take great care of every vehicle they service.  And with a 16,000 square foot “state of the art” collision repair shop and one acre adjacent storage space, California Coach is well-equipped to take care of all of your auto collision needs, including:

  • Estimating
  • Complete Auto Repair, Auto Body and Paint
  • Frame, Unibody and Metal Repair/Replacement
  • General Repair
  • Refinishing
  • 24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance
  • Towing (Light, Medium and Heavy Duty, and Recovery)
  • AAA Battery Service Program
  • Battery Jumps
  • Tire Changes, and much more!

California Coach has earned a reputation for courteous service, high standards, and extremely high customer satisfaction ratings since they opened in 1998.  Most new customers are a result of referrals by happy customers, and this is a standing they don’t take for granted.  They understand the stress associated with an accident or tow, and their goal is to take care of your car and reduce your frustration.  They will work hard to restore your car to its original condition and keep you updated throughout the process; and all insurance claims are welcome.

In partnership with Mercury Insurance Group and Diamond Honda of Puente Hills (as an approved repair facility), California Coach is also ASE certified, and a AAA Roadside Assistance Provider and Patrol.  They are also members of the California Auto Body Association, the California Tow Truck association, and the Walnut Sheriff’s Booster Club.

California Coach Auto Collision is located at 22064 Valley Blvd. in Walnut. Body Shop hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 noon. You can reach them at (909) 595-9448, or (909) 595-6970 for their 24-hour towing service. For more information visit their website at http://www.calcoachautobodytowing.com, or send them an email at info@CalCoachAutoBodyTowing.com.

Walnut Valley: Back To Class!

Walnut Valley begins 2015-16 School Year

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD School spirit showed during opening pep rallies held at Diamond Bar High on Aug. 17.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
School spirit showed during opening pep rallies held at Diamond Bar High on Aug. 17.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Over 14,600 students headed back to school in the Walnut Valley Unified School District on Mon., Aug. 17.

At Diamond Bar High, over 3,000 students cheered with classmates during two superhero-themed pep rallies held in the gymnasium.

“We’re welcoming everyone back today!” exclaimed Janna Van Horn, United Student Body (USB) advisor.

The extravaganza featured Drumline, Dance Company, Pep, and Song performances, and highlighted fall sports programs.

“I love the spirit here and how everyone is involved in the 4 A’s – Academics, Activities, Arts, and Athletics,” senior April Song commented.

Forty USB members organized the event during the summer.

“We put in a lot of hours to help our students have a better time on campus – especially the rallies,” added Song, the USB finance director.

At Westhoff Elementary, over 600 students and families waited for the first bell of the new school year. Many took photos to mark the first day near welcome banners and helium balloons.

For the opening class activity, kindergarten teacher, Roxanne Dennen, read the “Kissing Hand,” a sweet account of a young raccoon who was nervous on the first day of school.  The children’s book details a mother raccoon comforting her little one by kissing its paw.  After the story, Dennen asked parents to kiss their youngsters’ hands, before saying goodbye.

“You’re ready for kindergarten now!” she exclaimed.

“You’re going to learn so much this year,” Dennen said as they sat criss-cross-applesauce on lettered carpet squares.

At C.J. Morris Elementary, Carol Martindale’s 3rd Grade students loved the “First Day Jitters” story, because the teacher was also nervous about coming to school on the first day.

“It demonstrated that we all get excited and nervous about the first day of school and then we realize it is not so bad after all,” she said.

Collegewood Elementary 5th Grade teacher, Laura O’Donnell, also had memorable first day.  At the end of last year, a 4th Grader called to her and said, “Pick me for your class next year!” she recalled.  O’Donnell explained that she didn’t get to pick her students, but if she did, she certainly would.

“As luck would have it, he was on my class list,” O’Donnell shared. “When I walked down the line today to greet my students, he looked up at me, smiled, and whispered, ‘You picked me!’”

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Kindergartners heard the “Kissing Hand” during the opening activity of the 2015-2016 school year at Westhoff Elementary (shown with teacher Roxanne Dennen).

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Kindergartners heard the “Kissing Hand” during the opening activity of the 2015-2016 school year at Westhoff Elementary (shown with teacher Roxanne Dennen).

 

Walnut Council Recap

Photo Courtesy: Google

Photo Courtesy: Google

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – Mayor Bob Pacheco began the Aug. 12 Walnut City Council by recognizing employee, Alicia Jensen, Deputy Community Services Director. Through Jensen’s hard work and efforts, City planned events run smoothly and successfully, and all members of the Council praised her hard work.

After Jensen’s recognition, Michael Cacciotti, a board member from the South Coast Air Quality Management District, made a presentation on the levels of pollution in the Southland, most notably the negative effects of air pollution from diesel engines in vehicles such as trucks or ships, among other sources. Cacciotti concluded the presentation on ways to reduce air pollution, such as bicycling or commuting as opposed to driving, and using electric landscaping devices like electric lawn mowers and leaf blowers.

Following Public Comments, the Council approved several items on the Consent Calendar, including a resolution allowing Walnut $934,178.50 in certain claims and demands; an amendment between Walnut and Silver & Wright, LLP; final acceptance of a Parcel Map of Avenida Esplendor; a request to proceed with formal bids for business license software; a waiver of parking restrictions on La Puente Road; final acceptance for installation of speed bumps on Yale Avenue; final acceptance for the installation of a guardrail on Gartel Drive; and the appointment of Bella Cristobal to the Parks and Recreation Commission.

The Council then denied a license agreement between the City and Verizon Wireless, after residents expressed concern about the safety and aesthetic appeal of installing a cell tower in Snow Creek Park. The Council also denied a contract to MIG, Inc. to prepare a General Plan Update. Although the General Plan has not been updated since 1978, the Council is still seeking a lower bid for the contract.

The meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Walnut: New Mustang in Town

Brandon Dade takes helm at Walnut High

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Brandon Dade has been named the new principal at Walnut High School.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Brandon Dade has been named the new principal at Walnut High School.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District is pleased to announce that Walnut High School has a new leader. The Board of Trustees unanimously approved Brandon Dade as Principal during the July 15 meeting.

“I am excited to join the Walnut High team and am looking forward to working with students, families, teachers and staff,” Dade said.

The 15-year education veteran began his new post at the 2,700-student campus in late July.  Dade plans to kick off the first day of school by greeting students as they come onto campus.

“I’m going to be out in the parking lot, waving, and trying my best to say hello,” he said.

Once school is in session, he’ll visit as many classrooms as possible.

“Not only to see the students, but also to say good morning to the teachers.  “I’ll also be out talking to kids throughout the day. I want to be out there and available to students,” he added.

Dade recently met the Mustang staff during an opening meeting.

“We just had fun!” he said, adding the 150-plus staffers got to know each other better during a cross-curricular activity.

“I also shared some funny moments from my life and a video of a police officer singing Taylor Swift’s hit song, “Shake It Off.  I want them to think of this video and laugh when they have those ‘really?’ moments during the school year,” he added.

The new principal agrees with the existing school vision developed for students.

“My vision is to make sure that when students leave here, they’re ready for any post-secondary options, because the world changes so much from year to year,” he said.

Dade said he wants students to be foundationally well rounded.

“I just want them to go out there and dream big!”

Most recently, Dade served as principal at Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School in the community of Eastvale in the Corona-Norco Unified School District. Prior to that, he was assistant principal at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, also in Eastvale.

Additionally, Dade served four years as assistant principal and three years as a high school counselor at Alhambra High School. He was a teacher at Nogales High School and an elementary teacher.

Dade was previously a Los Angeles County children’s social worker. He is also fluent in American Sign Language.

The 6’4” administrator also played professional basketball in Europe and China for two years. He continues to utilize strategies from his days on the court as an educator.

“Being able to trust that everyone has a skill or unique talent and that I can help them use those skills, makes the team better.” Dade said.

“I look at the whole staff – classified and certificated – as being on one team. And when we have success, everybody contributes to that success. You stay together as a ‘we’,” he added.

Years ago, Dade attended middle and high school in a local school district. He was surprised to learn that his 7th Grade flag football coach and freshman basketball coach, Dave Smith, is a Walnut High teacher.

“I had no clue!” Dade exclaimed.  “I told him, thank you, because you helped me get to where I am today.”

Dade’s positive outlook is evident through his warm smile.

“I think I’m blessed to be where I’m at and that’s why I tell people ‘you’ll see me smile every day, no matter what.’ Great people around me have helped and supported me,” he explained.

“It feels like all the experiences I’ve had brought me to this point to be able to give back to the community.”

Dade is married and has three children.

He succeeds Jeff Jordan who was named Administrative Director of Educational Services in June.

Walnut: RN Program At Mt. SAC

Bachelor’s Program in Nursing from Mount Saint Mary’s Now Offered

Photo Courtesy: Mt. SAC

Photo Courtesy: Mt. SAC

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Recognizing the shortage of baccalaureate-prepared nurses, Mt. San Antonio College and Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles, will partner to launch a bachelor of science in nursing program on the Mt. SAC campus.
Classes begin Aug. 24 on Mt. SAC’s Walnut campus, with the goal of 30 students in the inaugural 2015-16 cohort. Mount Saint Mary’s will offer the Associate Degree in Nursing to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) Completion Program, and admissions for the program will be handled through the Los Angeles-based university.
“There is a growing need both locally and nationally for this advanced training,” said Dr. Susie Chen, liaison for the program. “Most hospitals now want nurses with bachelor’s degrees.”
The demand for registered nurses is expected to outpace the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. From 2012 to 2022, nursing jobs should increase by 19 percent.
“At Mount Saint Mary’s, we have made a major commitment to move more ADN students to BSN levels,” said Diane Vines, dean of nursing at Mount Saint Mary’s. “That’s why we created the RN to BSN Program, and that’s why we are pleased to partner with Mt. SAC. We want to help nurses reach this new standard in California’s hospitals and healthcare facilities.”
Through the educational partnership, classes will be held on the Mt. SAC campus and online, and will be taught by faculty from both colleges. The 35-unit program will consist of three continuous semesters of full-time study with core courses ranging from pediatric nursing to palliative care. Assigned hands-on clinical experience will be arranged in Mt. SAC’s local area.
Surveys have shown that more than 75 percent of Mt. SAC nursing students want to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
“We are honored to partner with Mount Saint Mary’s in this initiative. By working together, we have created a seamless process for students to first earn their associate’s degree through our nationally ranked program, and then take the next step and earn a bachelor’s degree from Mount Saint Mary’s excellent program. Our students will be well prepared to enter a surging job market and to lead the next generation of nursing professionals,” said Mt. SAC President and CEO, Dr. William Scroggins.
“This is a wonderful example of collegial collaboration in action,” said Mount Saint Mary’s President Ann McElaney-Johnson. “We have long been proud of the respect our nursing alums have earned in their field, and we are excited to join with Mt. SAC to help even more nursing professionals attain rising professional standards across California.”
Last year, Mt. SAC’s nursing program was ranked 13th among all nursing programs in the western United States’ community colleges in a survey by NurseJournal.org. Mt. SAC’s nursing program serves 240 students, and its students achieved a 91 percent pass rate on the 2014 state board nursing exam.
In 2014, Money magazine ranked Mount Saint Mary’s as its number one value-added college in the magazine’s evaluation of “Colleges That Add the Most Value.” Bright Hub, a web publication that focuses on technology, science and education, ranked the Mount at No. 9 in its U.S. ranking of “10 Best Colleges for a Degree in Nursing.” Mount Saint Mary’s BSN program is the oldest in California, dating back to 1952.

For more information, visit mtsac.edu and msmu.edu.

Walnut Protests Cell Towers

Photo Courtesy: Google

Photo Courtesy: Google

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – More than 800 Walnut residents received a small victory this month as their combined efforts caused the denial of two license agreements between the City of Walnut and Verizon Wireless for cell phone towers – one on Gartel Drive and another at Snow Creek Park.

According to Walnut resident, Heinrich Dy, more than 800 residents signed an online petition at kidsafegps.com, asking City officials to deny the installation of cell phone towers within 1,500 feet of any school and deny the license agreement for a proposed tower at 555 Gartel Drive. Dy and the other residents claimed that the area has no need for a new cell phone tower and that building one so close to residential houses, schools and parks would negatively impact the City, bring down property values and do not fit the usage of the area.

Dy claims that he has working knowledge of how cell phone coverage works, stating that he worked as a wireless network performance specialist for Microcell/Clearnet in Canada: he has also worked for Telus in Canada and Telstra in Australia – all of which are cell phone companies. Along with another resident, Cal Poly Pomona Electrical Engineering Professor and principal investigator at AT&T Bell Laboratories, James Yeh, the two are being called “expert witnesses” in regard to cell phone communication and voicing their concerns about Verizon’s plans.

“With my experience with cell phone companies, what I can say is that a simple drive test coverage map for telephone service is a basic tool that every engineering department of every cell phone company uses,” Dy said. “This knowledge is what allowed the residents to a) create our own maps; b) seek out crowd funded maps; and c) insist on those maps being made available by Verizon – which Verizon refused to provide even in repeated requests. It also allowed us to see that the supposed drive test map that Verizon provided was not the correct map needed to prove ‘significant gap.’”

While Dy and other residents are vehemently opposed to the new cell phone towers, representatives for Verizon Wireless claim that those estimated 800 residents do not speak for the entire city, and especially their Walnut customer base. During the Aug. 12 City Council meeting, Verizon Representative Jane Collier stated that 361 Verizon customers/Walnut residents voiced their approval of the cell phone towers via text messages from August 7-9. Collier stated that the text message was sent out to their Walnut customers as proof of the City’s need for another cell tower and that additional coverage is needed in parts of the City.

“Verizon has provided the City of Walnut with data to demonstrate the need for improved Verizon Wireless coverage and capacity in the area,” said Verizon Wireless Public Relations and Employee Communications representative for Northern California, Heidi Flato. “Customers are increasing their wireless use at a dramatic pace.”

Flato also mentioned that Verizon is expecting the demand for cell phone services to increase by 650 percent by the year 2018, and that the decline of landlines will cause a higher demand for cell phone service to avoid dropped calls to friends, family members and emergency services.

Flato also mentioned that Verizon’s research shows that good cell phone coverage is a positive aspect for perspective home buyers – meaning that increased coverage would make Walnut more appealing to homeowners.

Fellow cell phone tower protestor and Walnut resident, Angela Cinader, also brought up safety concerns for the tower, stating that cell phone towers constructed so close to schools and heavily populated areas have an inherent “risk of collapses and fires.” Cinader noted that if a cell phone tower were placed at either Snow Creek Park or Gartel Drive, Verizon would be putting adults and children in harm’s way.

“They keep coming back despite lack of solid evidence on significant gap and a thorough alternative sites analysis,” Cinader said. “But the fact that both the Planning Commission and the City Council have voted to reject these towers shows that our City government has considered all the evidence objectively, and we residents are grateful for that.”

While the estimated 800 petition signatures can celebrate in their victory for now, the fight is not over, according to Dy. After Verizon’s license agreement was denied on Aug. 5 and 12, the company will have 15 working days to appeal and once again attempt to approve their license agreement and build their new towers somewhere in Walnut.