Tag Archives: walnut

Collegewood Completes 612 Acts of Kindness

Photo courtesy: WVUSD

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Teachers took turns playing a pie in the face game as a treat for students.

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT, CA—Collegewood Elementary showed support for second grader Coben Swanson with 612 acts of kindness during a read-a-thon at the school on February 12.

The school quickly rallied when the eight-year-old was diagnosed with leukemia in November, sending get-well video messages and fundraising to help the family with expenses.

All 612 students and staff members came together once again during a special reading time held on the upper playground.  With towels and blankets spread out on the grass, the children and their teachers opened favorite books and quietly read for about 20 minutes.

The event was the culmination of a two-week reading challenge where students were encouraged to read daily, log minutes, and collect pledges. All donations will benefit the Swanson family.

“He’s our friend and needs our help”, said Kaitlyn Tran. “We’re donating money to help his family. We miss him!”

“Coben’s going through a hard time and we should support him no matter what,” added fifth grader Cassidy Ng.

Afterward, teachers surprised the group with a pie in the face game.  The children crowded around to watch their teachers get doused with whipped cream after taking turns spinning the wheel on the tabletop game.

“Acts of kindness instill empathy and teach children the value of living a life of giving,” said teacher Jane Dyer-Smith.

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT -The February 10 Walnut City Council meeting began by presenting Donut Tree with an award naming it the Winter 2016 Business of the Quarter. The Council thanked Donut Tree for its years of service to the community, for providing an excellent meeting place for celebrities and common residents alike, as well as for providing gracious donations of donuts to anyone who asked.

During the public comments, several residents reported burglaries between Pierre and Lemon, citing homes on Meadowpass and High Knoll as specific victims of these crimes. This group of concerned residents also announced a neighborhood watch meeting on February 16, and encouraged everyone to attend. Deputy Doug Daley also promised increased patrols around the area.

The Council then approved the minutes from the January 26 and 27 City Council special meeting, and the January 27 City Council meeting. After a brief public hearing, the Council remanded a conditional use permit from Sprint wireless back to the Planning Commission, who will review the permit and return the item back to the Council. The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including a resolution allowing $772,961.87 in claims and demands; an amendment to the agreement between the City and Silver and Wright LLP; and a bid to Toyota and Scion of Whittier for a City Fleet Vehicle.

Next, the Council agreed to post the Mt. San Antonio College Development Task Force Expansion and Growth Issues document to the City website, following a review of the document by the new City attorney. The Council also discussed front yard landscaping requirements in residential areas. Although front yards are not required to be completely green, considering the current drought, front yards are not allowed to be overgrown with weeds or have patches of dead soil. Residents should make sure any planned landscaping is in line with city code before remodeling their front yard.

After Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned until February 24 at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Jogger Hit by Car and Killed

Photo By NBC Los Angeles

Photo By NBC Los Angeles

Staff Reports

WALNUT -Just before 6 a.m. on Monday, February 15, Walnut Sheriff’s deputies got a 911 call informing them of a car that had hit a brick wall outside of a home in the 20200 block of Barnard Avenue.

The vehicle, a 1989 Toyota Camry, was being driven by Haissam Massalkhy, 36, a resident of West Covina.  Mr. Massalkhy was driving eastbound on La Puente Road when he struck a male jogger, identified as 59-year-old Chi Shao, of Walnut.  Mr. Shao was jogging eastbound in the bike lane when the vehicle hit him from behind and carried him several yards on the hood of the car before colliding with the brick wall of the Barnard Avenue residence.

Homeowner Jim Li said he and his family were asleep when he heard the crash.  “It was shock. The driver was standing there. I asked him: ‘Are you okay?’ And he said: ‘Someone dead. Call 911.’”

Mr. Shao was pronounced dead at the scene.  Mr. Massalkhy, who did not appear to be injured, has been booked at the Walnut Sheriff’s Station on murder charges.  Sheriff Lieutenant David Buckner said the incident appeared to have been intentional.  Massalkhy is being held in lieu of $1,000,000 bail.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. 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: 10-Day Water Shutdown Means Major Conservation

Staff Reports                                  

WALNUT – Walnut Valley Water District customers are being asked to voluntarily reduce their water use while a major source of supply is taken out of service for 10 days, beginning at midnight Monday, Feb. 29 through Wednesday, March 9.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) will upgrade its F.E. Weymouth Water Treatment Plant in La Verne. This shutdown will reduce the city’s available supplies by more than 50 percent, according to water officials.

As structures at Weymouth continue to age, regular maintenance is required to maintain supply reliability. The Weymouth plant was last fully shut down in March 2013.

While some local water agencies have access to groundwater, stored reservoir supplies and other sources to meet retail demands during the shutdown, the Walnut Valley Water District is nearly 100 percent dependent on imported water supplies.

To insure there is adequate water, reservoirs will be full prior to the shutdown, and another local water treatment plant will provide additional supplies. However, officials encourage customers to conserve water whenever possible.

To help conserve water, here are some steps to take:

  • No outdoor watering – turn your sprinklers “OFF,”
  • No hand-washing vehicles
  • No filling swimming pools or spas
  • No hosing down driveways and sidewalks.

Other water-saving measures include:

  • Running only full loads in washing machines and dishwashers,
  • Not leaving the tap running when washing dishes,
  • Not leaving the water running while brushing your teeth or shaving. Our customers should be aware that some local parks and landscape areas that are irrigated with recycled water will not be impacted by the shutdown.

 

Walnut Valley Now Registering for 2016-17 School Year

 By Kelli Gile

 

WALNUT–The Walnut Valley Unified School District is currently registering for the 2016-2017 school year for those elementary children new to the district, at any grade level.

You may register your child for transitional kindergarten if he/she turns 5 years old between September 2nd and December 2nd.  Students must be 5 years of age on or before September 1, to enroll in kindergarten for the 2016-2017 school year.

At the time of registration, parents will be asked to present a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate or passport, proof of the child’s immunizations, and for kindergarten and 1st grade, proof of an oral health examination.  For residency verification, parents will also need to provide either final escrow papers, mortgage statement or lease/rental agreement, along with a current utility bill (gas, water or electric bill) and a driver’s license (or California I.D.) with current home address.  Enrollment is ongoing, and your residence address determines the elementary school where you should enroll your child.

The Walnut Valley Unified School District offers quality day care programs at all elementary sites, for both before and after school hours.  You may contact the Child Care office at 909-444-3460 for additional information and fees.

 

Walnut Council Meeting Recap

By Natalie Kim
The January 27 Walnut City Council meeting began with an announcement from a Walnut United Taxpayers representative, who announced that Mt. Sac’s attempt to dismiss the injunction on the parking lot structure was dismissed by the court, and that Walnut United Taxpayers was able to add Mt. Sac’s proposed solar farm to their case. The case against Mt. Sac was reported to be very strong, although currently Mt. Sac’s current master plan still includes the contended parking lot structure.
Following the public comments, the Council approved all items on the agenda, including minutes from the January 13 City Council meeting; an ordinance imposing an express ban on marijuana cultivation, processing, delivery, and dispensaries; a resolution allowing claims and demands of $581,050; a resolution authorizing city application for all eligible CalRecycle payment programs; a first amendment to the purchase and sale agreement by and between the City and CalAtlantic Group Inc; appropriation of CalRecycle Beverage Recycling grant funds; awarding a bid to the Creekside Park Playground Renovation Project; a waiver of parking restrictions on La Puente Rd for a special high school event; a request from Mt. Sac Relays Executive Committee to conduct a 5k/10k Fun Race/Walk on April 9; a request for a film permit; a resolution approving the recognized obligation payment schedule for July 2016 to June 2017; the administrative budget for July 2016 to June 2017; appeal of Planning Commission Conditions and a tentative tract map for a two-lot subdivision of undeveloped land within the Single Family Residential and Rural Overlay Zoning Districts.
The Council adjourned with plans to meet again on Feb 10 at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Road, in the Council Chambers.

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT– Walnut kicked off the new year with a City Council meeting on January 13, which started off with a presentation on Smart Trash Bins. The Smart Trash Bins are larger bins which include informational graphics relating to what materials should or should not be recycled. A previous experiment with the bins showed recycling increased by 19% when used, and plans to implement the bins in schools and other public places was discussed.

Following the public comments, the Council approved all items on the agenda, including minutes from the December 9 City Council meeting; minutes from the January 5-6 City Council Special meetings; a resolution selecting projects for the 42nd Program Year of the Community Development Block Grant Program; an ordinance imposing an express ban on marijuana cultivation, processing, delivery, and dispensaries; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $2,177,238.04; a resolution allowing the Successor Agency claims and demands in the amount of $125,000; and a contract to MIG Inc. to prepare the General Plan Update and West Valley Blvd Specific Plan.

After councilmember reports and comments, the Council adjourned.  The next meeting will be held January 27 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Walnut Valley Trustees Honor Students, Community Members

Photo courtesy of WVUSD Quail Summit Elementary 2nd grader Jonathan Chen was recognized with the Super Star Student Award. Jonathan is shown with Principal Jeanette Koh and Board President Helen Hall.

Photo courtesy of WVUSD
Quail Summit Elementary 2nd grader Jonathan Chen was recognized with the Super Star Student Award. Jonathan is shown with Principal Jeanette Koh and Board President Helen Hall.

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—During the January 20 regular meeting, the Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees paid tribute to star students and valued volunteers who are making a difference in schools.

CJ Morris Elementary 4th grader Alejandra Urrieta won the 2015 “Holidays around the World” greeting card contest.  The talented young artist was recognized with a certificate and framed copy of her entry by Board President Helen Hall. She also received a family gift pack to Chick fil-A restaurant courtesy of owners Bob and Michelle Sun.

“Alejandra is a wonderful young lady. She always has a smile on her face, is kind to others, works hard, and is a really good artist!” said Principal Shehzad Bhojani.

Collegewood Elementary 2nd grader Coben Swanson received the Super Star Student Award. Coben has been fighting cancer since November.  “He really exemplifies bravery and has inspired our entire Collegewood community,” said Principal Joan Perez.

The school, now known as “Team Coben”, created a video get-well message where students, staff, and parents shared special sentiments, words of encouragement, and even a dance from his classmates.

“Coben is my hero,” sang teacher Elvonne Vance during the presentation.  Coben also loves “Star Wars” and actor Mark Hamel recently visited him in the hospital.  “He is battling leukemia like a Jedi,” Perez added.

Parent volunteers Denis and Terry Tamashiro were honored as Collegewood Elementary Partners in Education.  “Collegewood’s Partners in Education wrap their arms around our school community to help us serve our students and prepare them for what’s next in life. Mr. and Mrs. Tamashiro have served for over 10 years and together have provided a level of service leadership that is truly commendable,” said Perez.

The active Community Club members have helped chair numerous events, including staff appreciation luncheons, carnivals, after-school snack sales, and the Night of Giving. For the past several years, they have designed and taken photos for the school yearbook.

Quail Summit Elementary 2nd grader Jonathan Chen was recognized with the Super Star Student Award.   An avid chess player and member of the US Chess Federation, for the past two years Jonathan competed in the National K-12 Championship held in Orlando, Florida. Both years he took 1st place in his grade level division and returned to school with a huge trophy and a heartfelt message for his principal.

“He said, “Look, I what won for Quail Summit!” Principal Jeanette Koh shared.

Koh said she was impressed with his love and passion for the game, which he wants to share with schoolmates. Soon Jonathan, with the help of his parents, will be starting a chess team.

“Now when he goes on these competitions, he will have a Quail Summit team!” Koh added.

Longtime volunteers Jack and Wanda Tanaka were lauded as Partners in Education for Quail Summit.  “They exemplify serving from their heart,” Principal Koh shared.  “They’ve given so much to our staff – we think we are their favorite school!” Koh said as teachers cheered in the audience.

Each year, the Tanakas supervise the set up of a haunted mansion for the school carnival with 30-50 middle and high school Leo Club volunteers.  “They come for the entire week! On the night of the carnival stay after 10 p.m., until the last piece of trash is picked up!”

Last year, Jack didn’t hesitate to step in as a last-minute speaker for the fifth grade promotion ceremony.  “We are so honored and privileged to have this relationship with Mr. and Mrs. Tanaka,” said Koh.  “Giving without the expectation of something in return is the true definition of kindness. Jack and Wanda’s kindness and giving to the community is priceless,” said Board President Helen Hall.

Ron Hockwalt Academies senior Theotis “TJ” Davis received the school’s Super Star Student Award.  “TJ is a model student,” said teacher Frank De Anda. “This young man is a beacon of hope for all students on our campus and I’m really proud to be his teacher.”

De Anda’s leadership students launched a HOPE program at the beginning of the school year.  HOPE stands for heart, optimism, personal responsibility, and excellence.

“Every month we host an assembly that talks about HOPE and brings it personally to our students,” said grade level coordinator Sue McCracken.

“For this last one, TJ put together a HOPE rap for our students – it was awesome!”

“TJ has embraced the concept of choice. He chooses to be a good student and most importantly he chooses to focus all his efforts on the present and keeps working to achieve his goals. He chooses to be hopeful in the face of setbacks and adversity. He chooses success!” said his alternative high school advisor.

The Sanlo Homestay Foundation was honored as the Ron Hockwalt Academies Partner in Education. The award was presented to chairman Ernie Quejado and co-chair Bella Cristobal.

The Foundation recently made generous $1,000 donation to the school’s HOPE program and an additional donation to the Walnut Valley Unified School District.

“We can’t say how much we appreciate you and how much it’s done for the kids,” said De Anda.

Photo courtesy of WVUSD Board President Helen Hall awards Ron Hockwalt Academies senior TJ Davis the school’s Super Star Student Award on January 20.

Photo courtesy of WVUSD
Board President Helen Hall awards Ron Hockwalt Academies senior TJ Davis the school’s Super Star Student Award on January 20.03

Crashes Claim Walnut High Alumni

Staff Reports

WALNUT– Two former Walnut High School students have passed away this month, and one former student is in critical condition.

The first accident occurred around 2:40 p.m. on Jan. 6, in the 20300 block of East Walnut Drive, when Raymon Christopher Beltran, 22, driving a 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse, collided with a tree. He was pronounced dead at the scene.  Speed was cited as a factor in the crash.

The second accident occurred on Jan. 14 at the intersection of South Grand Avenue and East Cortez Street, in an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County near West Covina.  Kristine Salinas, 20, of Walnut, was eastbound on Cortez Street when her 2014 Honda Civic was struck by a 2012 Hyundai that was being driven south on Grand Avenue by 23-year-old Peter Covert of West Covina, according to the CHP. Salinas was pronounced dead at the scene. Jazzlyn Sandoval, 20, was identified as the passenger of this vehicle and is suffering from a broken pelvic bone and a collapsed lung. Covert suffered minor injuries and was treated at the scene.  Drugs and alcohol are not suspected to be factors in the collision, according to authorities.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help with Salinas’ family during this time. Visit https://www.gofundme.com/qcjksdbg if you would like to make a donation

Nominations Close Jan. 19 for 3 Walnut Council Seats

Staff Reports

WALNUT– January 19 is the deadline for people interested in running for city council seats in the spring election to submit nomination papers and get their names on the ballot.
The elections on April 12 will focus on three city council seats, currently held by Tony Cartagena, Eric Ching and Nancy Tragarz.
According to City Clerk Teresa De Dios, Ching and Tragarz have already pulled nomination papers. But there is still time for candidates to submit papers.
Nominating petitions must be filed at Walnut’s City Clerk office by Thursday, Jan. 19, at 5 pm. Candidate handbooks are available at the City Clerk’s Office inside City Hall. Cost is $25 to submit nomination papers and will take approximately 30 minutes to process. Members will serve a full four-year term, beginning April 2016 and ending April 2020.
The nomination period for these offices began on Monday, Dec. 21, 2015. Qualified candidates must be 18 years of age, a citizen of the United States, and a registered voter residing within the Walnut city limits.  All candidates are requested to make an appointment to obtain or return nomination papers by calling the City Clerk’s Office at (909) 595-7543, ext. 311.
If an incumbent does not file, the nomination period will be extended to Wednesday, January 20, 2016.  If no one or only one person is nominated for an elective office, appointment to the elective office may be made as prescribed by the Elections Code of the State of California No. 10229.
The polls will be open on April 12 between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Campaign statements will be posted on the City’s website: www.ci.walnut.ca.us.

Walnut Valley Symphony Orchestra Delivers Holiday Magic

Photo by Michael Armijo City of Walnut Mayor Bob Pacheco welcomed guests to an evening of “Holiday Magic” at Walnut High School Performing Arts Center.

Photo by Michael Armijo
City of Walnut Mayor Bob Pacheco welcomed guests to an evening of “Holiday Magic” at Walnut High School Performing Arts Center.

By Monique Valadez

WALNUT – More than 200 members of the Walnut Valley Symphony & Master Chorale (WVSO) and the Diamond Bar High School Symphony Orchestra entertained its audience with a winter concert “Holiday Magic” Dec. 29 at Walnut High School Performing Arts Center.

Walnut city officials in attendance said that the WVSO and Diamond Bar High School truly provided a magical night and remain true to their mission to create a community tradition of maintaining and fostering music at the highest level of creativity.

The annual holiday concert, led by Conductor Sey Ahn, sought to ring in the holiday season with festive holiday music from Christmas carols to holiday stories.

The concert hall was filled with sounds from “The First Noel,” “Away in the Manger,” “O Holy Night,” and “A Merry Christmas.”

The audience was also enchanted with dramatic versions of “Ave Maria,” performed by Bess De Guzman-Valenzuela and “All Is Well” performed by Cristina Elise Pacheco, founding board member and director of the Walnut Valley Symphony Orchestra and Master Chorale.

“The pleasure of hearing the beautiful music [the WVSO] create makes our holiday period so special,” said Walnut Mayor Bob Pacheco, who is a WVSO board member and proud father of Soloist/Soprano Cristina Pacheco.

Guests were also treated to a special performance by the nationally-acclaimed Diamond Bar High School Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Steve Acciani. The Diamond Bar High School Orchestra recently won the National School Orchestra Finals at New York’s Lincoln Center and is composed of 9th through 12th grade student string players.

Diamond Bar city officials say that events such as this, which shine a spotlight on local arts and music programs and showcase our community’s young musicians’ talent, are of great value and importance as they contribute in a positive way to our quality of life.

Photo by Michael Armijo Soprano Cristina Elise Pacheco, founding WVSO board member, performs “All Is Well” during the annual winter concert Dec. 29.

Photo by Michael Armijo
Soprano Cristina Elise Pacheco, founding WVSO board member, performs “All Is Well” during the annual winter concert Dec. 29.

 

Walnut City Council Election Set for April

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Staff Reports

WALNUT– A general municipal election will be held on Tuesday, April 12, 2016, for three Walnut City Council member positions.  Members will serve a full four-year term, beginning April 2016 and ending April 2020.

The three City Council members whose terms are expiring are Tony Cartagena, Eric Ching, and Nancy Tragar.

Council Members are currently paid $300 per month and have a monthly health benefit allowance of $700. In addition, Council Members receive $50 per meeting for attendance at Housing Authority meetings.

The nomination period for these offices began on Monday, December 21, 2015 and close on Tuesday, January 19, 2016.  Qualified candidates must be 18 years of age, a citizen of the United States, and a registered voter residing within the Walnut city limits.  Candidate Handbooks are available at City Hall.  Obtaining nomination papers will take approximately 30 minutes, and there is a filing fee of $25.   All candidates are requested to make an appointment to obtain or return nomination papers by calling the City Clerk’s Office at (909) 595-7543, ext. 311.

If an incumbent does not file, the nomination period will be extended to Wednesday, January 20, 2016.  If no one or only one person is nominated for an elective office, appointment to the elective office may be made as prescribed by the Elections Code of the State of California No. 10229.

The polls will be open on April 12, 2016 between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Campaign statements will be posted on the City’s website: www.ci.walnut.ca.us.

Mt. SAC Elects New Officers, Add New Trustee

Staff Reports

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College Board of Trustees elected on Dec. 9 Judy Chen Haggerty as president, Rosanne Bader as vice president, and Dr. Manuel Baca as clerk. These roles are one-year terms and effective immediately.
The board also elected Jay Chen to represent Mt. SAC Trustee Area 5.
Haggerty was the first Asian-American to serve on the board and elected in 2001, 2005, 2009, and 2013. She has been a practicing attorney since 1986, a law professor at Rio Hondo College since 2001, and currently serves on the governing board of Whittier Medical Center.
Bader was first elected to the board in 2003. She was reelected in 2007, 2011, and 2015. In 2007, Trustee Bader was elected to the California Community College Trustees Board. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center and serves as a member of the hospital’s Foundation Board. She also presides over the Pomona Rotary Board. She spent 32 years in public education, both as a teacher and administrator. Before retiring from the Pomona Unified School District in 2001, she was principal at two Pomona elementary schools.
Baca was first elected to the board in 1999 and reelected in 2003, 2007, 2011, and 2015. He currently teaches political science at Rio Hondo College in Whittier, where he has also held key academic and administrative positions, including an interim presidency. On the state level, Dr. Baca is president of the California Community Colleges Board of Governors. He is a member and past president of the Kiwanis Club of Walnut Valley, a mentor with the El Monte Union High School District’s Graphic Arts & Communications Academy, and on the executive committee of the Rio Hondo Boys & Girls Club of Bell Gardens. He has also been a member of the 32nd Congressional District’s U.S. Military Academies Advisory Committee.
Chen previously served on the Board of Education for the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District for two terms. He ran for Congress in 2012. A graduate of San Gabriel Valley public schools and Harvard University, Jay previously worked at Bain & Company as a management consultant and currently owns his own real estate business. He is a lieutenant in the United States Naval Reserve and a Marshall Memorial Fellow. He has served as an executive volunteer at Children’s Hospital of Orange County.
The board consists of seven elected community members and one student trustee. The other Mt. SAC trustees are outgoing president Dr. David K. Hall, trustee Laura Santos, trustee Robert Hidalgo, and student trustee Elizabeth Santos.
The Mt. San Antonio College Board of Trustees meets the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in Founders Hall at 1100 North Grand Avenue.

Walnut High Named Grammy Signature School Semifinalist

Courtesy of WVUSD Walnut High School has been named a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist. The Home for the Holidays band and orchestra concert, under the direction of Corey Wicks and Dr. Buddy Clements/WVUSD

Courtesy of WVUSD
Walnut High School has been named a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist. The Home for the Holidays band and orchestra concert, under the direction of Corey Wicks and Dr. Buddy Clements/WVUSD

 By Kelli Gile

 

WALNUT -Walnut High School has garnered national recognition as a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist by the Grammy Foundation.

The Grammy Signature Schools program recognizes top U.S. public high schools that are making an outstanding commitment to music education during an academic school year.

A total of 119 schools around the country received the distinction.
“We are very proud of the work that Instrumental Music Directors Dr. Buddy Clements, Corey Wicks, and Choir Director Lisa Lopez do to support the arts at Walnut High,” said Principal Brandon Dade. “These outstanding music educators have gone above and beyond to develop a top-rate program!”

The Grammy Signature School program, created in 1998, recognizes top public high schools that are making an outstanding commitment to music education.

Finalists will be announced in mid-March. These schools will receive a custom award and $1,000-$6,000 grant benefit their music program.

The top programs are designated as Gold recipients, and the best of the Gold recipients is designated as the National Grammy Signature School.

The selection process for Grammy Signature Schools begins each year in August when the Grammy Foundation mails notification to more than 20,000 public high schools from districts large and small, urban, suburban and rural, requesting information about each school’s music program.

Applications are completed and submitted online in October. After the applications are scored, finalists are identified and asked to submit additional documentation, such as recordings of school concerts, sample concert programs and repertoire, which is then reviewed by an independent blue-ribbon committee of top music educators and professionals to determine the schools that merit Grammy Signature School status.

Walnut Council Round Up

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT– The Dec. 9 Walnut City Council meeting began with a presentation concerning the upcoming El Niño season and how to properly prepare for it. Some safety preparedness tips that were discussed include creating survival kits for each member of your family, and awareness of the dangers of water, mud, and debris on the streets, as well as downed trees or power lines. More information concerning El Niño preparedness can be found at www.lacounty.gov/elnino.

The 2015 Family Festival Volunteer Committee was recognized for all of their efforts in putting together the Walnut Family Fun Festival. The Council applauded their hard work, which began months in advance of the festival itself, and thanked the Committee for creating one of the most successful events in Walnut.

Next, the “Robo Heroes”, a group of students from Suzanne Middle School, announced the results of their recycling project. By placing a large recycling bin, or “Hero Bin,” next to a smaller trash can, recycling increased by 19 percent.   The Hero Bin made recycling more convenient and included informational graphics which increased understanding of what should be recycled and what should not.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the minutes from the Nov. 10 Council meeting; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,572,390.19; a request by Valley Vista Services for a rate adjustment for CPI increase; a part-time salary schedule change; a resolution amending a resolution regarding payment of salaries, sick leave, vacations, leave of absences and other regulations by revising general authorized positions/salary schedule; a contract extension for the city manager; an appropriation request for Richards, Watson & Gershon to perform special legal services for the City; an award of bid to HdL for business license processing; a request for the Rotary Club of Walnut Valley to conduct a 5k/10k Fun Run on March 5, 2016; a recommendation by Walnut Senior Commission to amend the Senior Center use policy; a request for appropriation of $2,850.41 from the general fund to be reimbursed by Foothill Transit for bus stop enhancements; a request for appropriation of $44,000 for storm drain and tree maintenance contracted services; El Niño preparation; an alcoholic beverage license application for HJH Sauce Simmer Pot; an alcoholic license application for Liquor Station; and sport group requests for Biannual Field Use for Spring 2016, including use of Butterfield Park from Feb. 1-July 31, 2016, use of Creekside Park on Jan. 9, 16 & 19 for tryouts and from Feb. 1-May 23, 2016; use of Snow Creek Park from Feb. 29-May 23,  2016; use of Suzanne Park on Jan. 23, and from Feb. 1-July 16 with the exception of July 1-6, and Feb. 1-June 30; use of Walnut Ranch Park from Feb. 1-June 4, and the use of Walnut Ranch Park on Sundays.

The comprehensive annual financial report for the period ended June 30, 2015 concluded that the city funds were still a healthy size, and that no major issues were found.

Before the meeting adjourned, Mayor Pacheco announced a Winter Wonderland event on Dec. 12, from 6-9 p.m. at the parking lot near the Walnut Senior Center. Councilmember Cartagena also announced a ribbon cutting event at Creekside Park for the fitness equipment on Dec. 14 from 9-11 a.m. Breakfast will be available for the first 100 people that attend. The meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Jan. 13, 2016, at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Collegewood Cares for Coben

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Collegewood Elementary is collecting donations for the family of second grade cancer patient Coben Swanson.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Collegewood Elementary is collecting donations for the family of second grade cancer patient Coben Swanson.

School looks to help 2nd grade cancer patient

By Kelli Gile 

Walnut – Three weeks ago, Collegewood Elementary second grader Coben Swanson was happy and healthy, playing with friends on the playground and getting ready to take a math test with classmates.

When persistent stomach pains sidelined him from school, he was taken to the doctor. The startling diagnosis was T-cell leukemia.

He is now fighting for his life and dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy. The seven-year-old is being cared for in the intensive care unit at Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

Coben’s school family learned of the situation through a letter from the school on Friday.

“The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming,” said Principal Joan Perez.

The Walnut children and teachers immediately decided to send a Star Wars-themed video “get well card” for their friend, sharing personal messages in front of a “May the Force be With You” banner.
“We want to make sure that Coben knows that his friends are thinking and praying for him,” Perez added.

To show his support, fourth grade student Jordan Hernandez wore a “Friends don’t let friends battle alone” t-shirt while recording his message.

His second grade classmates and teacher Elvonne Vance sang two class songs for their friend during the videotaping.

“Coben is my hero,” Vance said.  “He is a student leader, he loves to help others, and he never gives up.”

The school hosted its annual Week of Giving from December 7-11. They collected ____ to support the Swanson family.

Anyone wishing to contribute may send a check payable to the Collegewood Community Club at 20725 Collegewood Drive, Walnut, CA 91789.

Water Rate Discount Offers Relief

Staff Reports

WALNUT – The statewide drought is driving water rates up and low-income residents are feeling it in their pocket book. The Walnut Valley Water District is offering relief to its customers by cutting down costs up to 50 percent.

According to the district, the affordable rate program assists eligible residential customers by providing a discount of up to 50 percent off their monthly base rate. For example, the 2016 base rate for 5/8-inch and 3/4-inch meters will be $18.87 per month and the discount provided would be half of that cost (1-inch meters have a slightly higher base rate), district officials said.

Applications for qualified customers are accepted and considered throughout the year on a first-come, first-served basis, contingent upon the availability of funds.

  • Applicant must qualify for the Southern California Edison or Southern California Gas Company’s

California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE) Program

  • Applicant’s gross household income cannot exceed pre-established income levels
  • Applicant may not be claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return
  • Applicant must have and maintain a good payment history with the District
  • For a complete list of qualifications and to obtain an application, please contact our Customer Service

Department at (909) 595-1268, or visit our website at http://www.wvwd.com.

 

It’s A Walnut Winter Wonderland

Image courtesy of City of Walnut

Image courtesy of City of Walnut

Courtesy of City of Walnut

WALNUT-Walnut is transforming into a wintery Wonderland this holiday season. The Walnut Senior Center Parking Lot will be filled with snow on Saturday, Dec. 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.  For only $8, participants will be able to enjoy the unlimited sled rides, snow ball battlefield, games and live entertainment by local community groups. This evening will be a night to remember as we kickoff our first Winter Wonderland Sing-off. Participants can sing as a solo or duet. Auditions will take place Dec. 7 through Dec. 9, with finalist competing during Winter Wonderland. So make your way over in your best winter holiday spirited event and experience the fun of Walnut’s Winter Wonderland. To register or for more information, call the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200. Family four packs and Dinner with Santa combo packs are also available. The Walnut Senior Center is located at 21215 La Puente Road, Walnut.

Walnut: Signing Day for Seven Mustang Athletes

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Signing Day at Walnut High! Seven outstanding athletes signed letters of intent on Nov. 24.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Signing Day at Walnut High! Seven outstanding athletes signed letters of intent on Nov. 24.

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—Seven outstanding Walnut High athletes signed National Letters of Intent during a lunchtime ceremony on November 24.

The following seniors committed to play sports in college: Cody Dye – University of New Mexico (Baseball), Michael Moy – La Sierra University (Baseball), Brennan McKenzie – Cal Poly Pomona (Baseball), Alison Chang – Princeton University (Golf), Megan Hou – Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville (Golf), Kayla Richardson – USC (Track and Field), and Kyla Richardson – USC (Track and Field).

“Congratulations to all of our student athletes, this is a great accomplishment!” said Principal Brandon Dade.
“These student athletes will be getting money to go to college, play their sport, and get their education. It’s pretty incredible,” Athletic Director Jerry Person said. “They worked hard to get where they’re going.”

During their high school careers, the dedicated athletes earned numerous individual and team awards.

Pitching star Cody Dye signed to play baseball with University of New Mexico.

“They’re the top in their conference every year,” he said.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD

Dye received a coveted full-ride scholarship with the Division 1 School and plans to study criminology.

Last year, Boys Baseball had an impressive 18 game winning streak and took the Runner-Up Award during the CIF Southern Section Championships.

“We have a lot of good guys on the team!” said first baseman Brennan McKenzie who committed to Cal Poly Pomona. “This means a lot! I’ll get to play baseball, get an education– and hopefully get a good job.” He plans to major in kinesiology.

Teammate second baseman Michael Moy committed to play at La Sierra University in Riverside.

Golfer Alison Chang will play at Princeton University in the fall. “It’s like a dream come true,” she said after the signing ceremony. “I only could have gone this far with the support of everyone round me, including my coach, my family, and teammates.”

This season, Chang, a 4.0 GPA honor student, clinched an Individual CIF 2nd Place Award. The Girls Golf team also took 2nd Place at the CIF Championships.

“I’m just happy I get to play the sport I love and take it to the next level,” Chang added.

Megan Hou received a full-ride scholarship to play golf at Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville.

“I’m very excited because the coach and the girls seem very nice,” she said.

Hou has been golfing since she was eight years old and “got serious” about the sport when she was 12. She played varsity all four years at Walnut High.

“I’m very happy I chose to go to this school. I feel like it’s a better for me academically,” she added.

Hou looks forward to taking a broad range of courses before selecting her major.

Track and field sprinters Kayla and Kyla Richardson will attend University of Southern California (USC) next fall.

“USC has always been my dream school,” Kyla said.

“It was really exciting signing. I don’t think it’s sunk in yet!” twin Kayla added.

“It’s a relief and I’m glad all my hard work paid off,” Kyla commented.

The 200-meter dash is the sisters’ favorite race and they are currently training for the 2016 season.

Last year, Kayla won two CIF Southern Section championships and advanced to the CIF State meet. She clocked the fastest times in the 100 meters (11.65), 200 (23-45), and 4oo (56.53 in the San Gabriel Valley last season. She also won CIF-SS Division 1 titles in 100 and 200, running the season’s best 11.65 in the 100 and 23.45 in the 200.

“The sky’s the limit – there will be no limit to what they can do with this opportunity!” Dade added.

 

Walnut Dinner With Santa

Image Courtesy of City of Walnut

Image Courtesy of City of Walnut
Dinner with Santa

City of Walnut 

Walnut– Do you hear that? It’s the sound of bells jingling- must be Santa! And he and his jolly elves are inviting you and your family to gather round the tree for a festive holiday dinner! The City of Walnut will be hosting a Dinner with Santa from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Walnut Senior Center.  Dinner with Santa will include a delicious buffet-style dinner with live entertainment, arts and crafts, games and an opportunity to take a picture with our special guests, Santa and his elves. The cost is $12 per person and $8 per child. For more information please call 909-598-5605.  The Walnut Senior Center is located at 21215 La Puente Rd. in Walnut.