Tag Archives: walnut

Walnut: Tis’ The Season Holiday Mini Marketplace

City of Walnut

Walnut— The Holidays are approaching fast, so why not stop by our Mini Marketplace to find that unique gift idea you have been looking for! Our Annual Tis the Season Marketplace has partnered up with Winter Wonderland to make family time both easy and fun. The Mini Marketplace hours are from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 12 at the Walnut Senior Center. There will be a variety of items such as; handmade crafts, festive decorations and much more available for purchase.  So, get in the spirit of the holidays and find that thoughtful gift for that special someone.  For more information, please contact the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200.  The Walnut Senior Center is located at 21215 La Puente Road, Walnut, CA 91789.

Battle Continues in Mt. SAC’s Solar Project

Staff Reports

WALNUT-Walnut has been the epicenter of a fight between the city and Mt. San Antonio College’s proposed Photovoltaic Solar System project. City officials and some residents say the project would be an eyesore and increase traffic in the city. Mt. SAC says it will save the campus’ thousands of dollars in energy costs.

According to the city officials, Mt. SAC is required to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the proposed project. In the Oct. 28 staff report, Mt. SAC officials note that the school “will not be requesting a CUP for the said project.”

City staff contacted the California Energy Commission and the California Public Utilities Commission for support. But both State agencies indicated that they are exempt from local zoning due to the type of project.

Residents are also joining the city’s forces to fight off the project. During the Oct. 28 council meeting, several 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.

The outcry of residents moved the Council to figure out how to cease construction of the proposed solar project.

In October, the city approved bringing in legal help. The city agreed to hire Leibold McClendon & Mann to help them fight Mt. SAC’s proposed project. The city’s new legal team will review and analyze Proposition 39 and government codes.

With construction planned in late spring/early summer of 2016, City officials are not backing down. “Walnut fully intends to enforce City Zoning Code regulations, City General Plan guidelines and State and Land Use law as it pertains to any proposed development at Mt. SAC,” city staff reports state.

“The City Council remains committed to safeguard the health, safety, and general welfare of the community at large,” city officials added.

Kindergartners Enjoy Thanksgiving Feast

Photo courtesy: WVUSD Evergreen’s youngest students dug into a delicious Thanksgiving feast on Nov. 20 in Diamond Bar.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Evergreen’s youngest students dug into a delicious Thanksgiving feast on Nov. 20 in Diamond Bar.

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR – Evergreen Elementary Transitional Kindergarteners and kindergarteners enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving feast on Nov. 20. The youngsters wore pilgrim and Native American paper hats as they sampled corn bread, potatoes, cranberry, and pumpkin pie.

“As we feast together, I want you to think of how grateful and how fortunate you are to have this feast!” said teacher Mona Warren.

About 20 parent volunteers were on hand to setting up and serving at the special event.

 

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT – Mayor Pacheco called to order the Nov. 10 Walnut City Council meeting, held on a Tuesday as opposed to the usual Wednesday to recognize Veterans Day. First in the public comments were the Robotastic Kids, a group of Collegewood Elementary School students who presented a plan to raise awareness about household battery recycling. Their plan includes leading battery recycling drives at school, and calling for the implementation of automated battery recycling stations and placing CRV on batteries. Multiple residents also expressed their support for the Council in a lawsuit against Verizon concerning Verizon’s ability to place another cell tower at 555 Gartel Dr.

Following the public comments, the Council approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including minutes from the Oct. 14 City Council meeting; minutes from the Oct. 22 Special Meeting; minutes from the Oct. 28 City Council/WHA minutes; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $480,847.13; a resolution calling and giving notice of holding a general municipal election on April 12, 2016; a resolution requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles to reader specific services to conduct the general municipal election of April 12, 2016; a resolution adopting regulations for candidates for elective office pertaining to candidate statements for the general municipal election on April 12, 2016; a resolution opting out of the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System Joint Powers Agreement and the City’s membership in the LA-RICS Authority; and a request by Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles for a non-profit solicitation permit and waiver of business license tax.

After Council comments and updates, the meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Walnut Middle School Students to Perform with Young Americans

WALNUT-YoungAmericansDrama 2

Photo courtesy: Walnut Valley Unified School District Suzanne Middle School drama students rehearse alongside the internationally acclaimed Young Americans. Over 2,000 students from eight schools will come together to perform Turn it Up So Cal on Dec. 1 at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario.

Photo courtesy: Walnut Valley Unified School District
Suzanne Middle School drama students rehearse alongside the internationally acclaimed Young Americans. Over 2,000 students from eight schools will come together to perform Turn it Up So Cal on Dec. 1 at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario.

Turn It Up So Cal 2015 coming December 1

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT – Thirty-five drama students from Suzanne Middle School have joined the phenomenal Turn it Up So Cal, a first-time ever event with the Young Americans.

“The Young Americans are an amazing and inspirational group. This experience has had a really positive impact on me,” said classmate Nada Dalati.

Over 2,000 students from eight Southern California schools and 250 internationally acclaimed Young Americans will come together and perform a one-hour show on Dec. 1 at the Citizens Business Bank in Ontario.

During two workshops held in the school multipurpose room in Walnut, the Suzanne students are learning three songs and choreographed dance routines for the performance from the Young American mentors.

“Seeing how excited my kids are and watching them interact with the Young Americans is amazing!” said drama teacher Helen Papadopoulos.  “This is an experience they will never forget, and neither will I!  I’m so proud of them!”

The Young Americans, a non-profit organization founded over 50 years ago, currently focuses on music education with talented members between the ages of 16 and 25.

The Suzanne students are eager to hit the stage for the Turn it Up event.

“It’s so much fun and I can wait to perform with all of my friends,” said eighth-grader Aidan Borgen. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity!”

Tickets on sale for the 7p.m show at www.youngamericans.org.

Walnut Water Rates Increase Jan. 1

Rates will be reflected in Feb. 2016 water bill

By Walnut Valley Water District

WALNUT– New rate increase reminders were mailed out to all Walnut Valley Water District customers last week.

The new rate increase will take effect on Jan. 1 and will be reflected in their February 2016 water bill.

In November 2014, the WVWD’s Board of Directors approved a five-year rate plan to primarily cover cost increases.

WVWD also mailed out rate sheets for customers to understand the new rates and charges that were approved last November.

Walnut Valley Water District is 100 percent dependent upon imported water supplies purchased from Metropolitan Water District through its local wholesaler, Three Valleys Municipal Water District. These water supplies must travel very long distances to reach Walnut families and businesses.

To decrease dependence upon these costly imported water supplies, WVWD has been working diligently for several years to secure additional water from local sources, partnering with other regional water agencies to develop local groundwater basins for future use. These efforts require careful planning and significant financial investment to help ensure long-term supply reliability.

Approximately 50 percent of every dollar spent by WVWD does not vary based upon the quantity of water used by its customers. These costs are associated with the effective operations and maintenance of WVWD’s water system infrastructure and all services provided by WVWD to meet the needs of its customers.

In response to California’s most severe drought to date, WVWD Board of Directors adopted a Stage 3 Water Supply Shortage Resolution and implemented a drought rate surcharge. Since adopting the Stage 3 Water Supply Shortage, WVWD customers have answered the call to conserve and have successfully reduced their overall water usage.

District officials encourage customers to “Keep Saving…..Every Drop Counts!” The District remains fully committed to its mission of “providing a reliable, high quality water supply in a fiscally efficient and environmentally responsible manner while remaining committed to providing superior service to our customers.”

Quality Comes First At Peterson Auto Repair

peterson-auto-repair-center-walnut

Peterson Auto Repair Center is located at 3900-B Valley Boulevard, in the Big Valley Industrial Park. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881.

By K.P. Sander

Walnut – If you are looking for a local automotive repair center that performs quality work at reasonable prices – and delivers it all with excellent service – look no further than Peterson Auto Repair Center.

Peterson now houses a full mechanic shop to serve all your automotive needs.  They not only specialize in lube and oil changes, but also repair and maintain radiators, alternators, starters, brakes, clutches, shocks and struts, axles,  air conditioning, belts and hoses, and much, much more.

In business for over 15 years, owner Eric Peterson says, “For me, it’s all about providing quality automotive repair for the neighborhood.  I grew up in La Puente and Walnut, and we have so many good customers in this area.  We really appreciate the business and word of mouth referrals.”

Carhelp.com customers agree constantly giving Peterson high marks for quality workmanship and fair pricing.

Look for Peterson to add quality auto-body services to the business in the future.

Peterson Auto Repair is located in the Big Valley Industrial Park, at 3980-A Valley Boulevard in Walnut.  They are open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and can be reached at (909) 598-3881.  Mention their ad and get an oil change for just $21.99 (plus tax and fees).

Walnut Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT-The Oct. 28, Walnut City Council meeting began by recognizing resident John Hoang, who played an instrumental role in arresting the mail thieves that have been plaguing the city. The City thanked him for his diligence in reporting suspicious figures to the Sheriff, who in turn managed to arrest the thieves, who will be tried in a federal court. The City also recognized the Starbucks store located on Grand and Valley as the business of the summer 2015 quarter.

During the public comments, a resident expressed her concern with the current location of cell towers and their proximity to elementary schools. Several other residents complained about a lack of code enforcement in Walnut homes. Finally, a representative from Habitat for Humanity announced a lack of eligible families for a new home the organization is in the process of constructing. All Walnut residents that meet the requirements of being a multigenerational disabled veteran family are encouraged to call Habitat for Humanity at (909) 596-7098 and apply for housing.

An ordinance revising the methods of drawing warrants was read for the second time, and subsequently approved. The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar: a resolution allowing claims and demands in $1,006,946.03; a request to solicit bids for City Attorney services; awarding a bid to Deere and Company for the purchase of utility tractor and attachments; awarding a bid to Shade Structures, Inc. for Creekside Park Fitness Zone shade structure installation; and an amendment to the agreement for Leibold McClendon & Mann.

During the Council comments and updates, Councilmember Su announced a health fair on Thursday (Oct. 29), from 9 a.m. to noon, where flu shots will be available. Councilmember Cartagena also announced a wildlife tour at Mt. San Antonio College’s wildlife sanctuary on Nov. 10.

The meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Road.

Give the Gift of Sight for the Holidays

Walnut Hills Optometry is conveniently located at 18736 Amar Road. You can reach them at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153. For more information, visit their website at www.walnuthillsoptometry.com

Walnut Hills Optometry is conveniently located at 18736 Amar Road. You can reach them at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153. For more information, visit their website at http://www.walnuthillsoptometry.com

Staff Reports

Walnut – Give someone special the gift of sight during this holiday season. Walnut Hills Optometry considers vision to be a precious gift, and their office takes pride in providing comprehensive eye exams.  For many years, Walnut Hills Optometry has taken great care of the vision needs of its community, serving patients from Walnut and Diamond Bar, to Chino Hills and Rowland heights.  Because of the quality of service provided, as well as the trusting care given by the doctor, patients travel from the Los Angeles and Inland Empire areas as well.

They believe that quality eye care involves consistent care by a professional.  Carmela Larino, O.D. and her loyal staff will give your eyes the personalized care and attention they deserve.

Dr. Larino is proud to serve the community she grew up in.  She attended Rowland Unified schools from elementary through high school, and then attended UC Irvine before receiving her doctorate degree from the Southern California College of Optometry.  In 2002 to 2004, Dr. Larino was honored at her alma mater – Nogales High School – by being inducted onto their Wall of Fame.  She is a member of the American Optometric Association, California Optometric Association, and the Rio Hondo Optometric Society, where she stays current on the latest in eye care.  As a local resident, you might find Dr. Larino eating at your favorite restaurant, shopping in a local store, or attending a community event.

Walnut Hills Optometry offers personalized eye examinations, diabetic and eye health exams, and the management and care of a multitude of eye and vision concerns.  A wide variety of eyewear is also available, from progressive and polarized lenses, to silicone high-oxygen contacts, even designer frames. They also offer Lasik Surgery co-management. If you have used eyeglass frames scattered around the house, bring them to our offices and we will donate them to those in need of frames.

Walnut Hills Optometry is conveniently located near the 10, 60 and 57 freeways, on the border of Walnut and West Covina, at 18736 East Amar Road (at the corner of Nogales Street and Amar Road, next to Papa John’s Pizza).  Their hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  You can reach them at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153.  For more information visit their website at www.walnuthillsoptometry.com.

Walnut Goes Solar

New Expedited Solar System Permit Process Adopted

By Monique Valadez

WALNUT– Walnut homeowners and businesses looking to go solar now have a team of city officials backing them in their smart, energy efficient lifestyle. With the passing of a new state law AB 2188, all California cities and counties had until September to implement a state-standardized permitting process for the alternative energy systems.

The new law takes out the red tape and burdensome permit process allowing for an easier and faster process for residents and installers alike.

The Walnut City Council made it official on June 24 by adopting a new ordinance to help expedite and streamline a formal permit process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems.

According to city officials, they hope to advance the use of solar energy by all its residents, businesses, and industries by providing an expedited permitting process to assure the effective deployment of solar technology.

According to the new state law, which builds on the Solar Rights Act of 1978, seeks to reduce permitting barriers by mandating cities institute a more accessible and straight-forward permitting process, and by reducing opportunities for local governments to delay and unnecessarily condition approvals.

Under the new law, the city must allow homeowners to apply for the permits online, and must make all required documents available on their websites. A standard plan and checklist must also be provided to homeowners that explains the local building and safety requirements for rooftop solar panels. Cities must also complete the application process including inspections in a timely manner.

This new permitting process is also expected to save homeowners and solar energy installers a significant amount of time and money. In the long-run, this is a win-win situation for both governing bodies and residents converting to solar energy as well as helping expedite California’s “Million Solar Roofs” initiative.

For more information about solar energy systems and inspections, contact your city’s building division. The Walnut City Building Division can be contacted at (909) 595-7543.

Mt. SAC Breaks Ground on $46M Business Tech Center

Photo Courtesy of Mt. SAC

Photo Courtesy of Mt. SAC
Mt. San Antonio College’s Board of Trustees’ dig in for their ground breaking ceremony held on Thursday, Oct. 22 where their new Business and Computer Complex will be built.

By Monique Valadez

WALNUT– Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut formally broke ground on its new business and computer complex Oct. 22.

Designed to fulfill the academic needs of the school’s business and computer technology programs and other programs well into the 21st century, the 87,000-square-foot complex will comprise three buildings including new technology-based classrooms, lab-based learning environments and a student-run restaurant.

“This is going to be a state-of-the-art complex that will consolidate our business and computer programs in one central area,” said Mt. SAC Business Dean Jennifer Galbraith.

The new complex, located south of the tennis courts and west of the Language Center, building 66, will bring much-needed space for a wide range of programs including paralegal studies, accounting, computer information systems, office technology, culinary arts, hospitality management and interior design.

The three-building complex will also feature the Language Learning Center and computer security lab.

In addition, a lobby will be added to the west side of building 66 to connect this building to the rest of the campus through a new pedestrian path.

The new complex is expected to cost $46 million by completion in the spring of 2018, college officials said. Construction begins in December. Half of the project is funded through Measure RR, Mt. SAC’s $353-million facilities bond approved by voters in 2008.

Measure R and Measure RR has brought an influx in construction to the campus. A $16.6 million Student Success Center opens in 2016 and $14.7 million food service center opens in December.
Several complaints have been arriving on the Walnut city council’s desks regarding the campus’ growth. Residents along with city officials filed a lawsuit on construction of a $48 million five-level parking garage earlier this year.
A $3.8 million solar-power project was recently approved by the college’s board members but some locals say the “solar farm” project would cause traffic congestion and would be an eyesore. College officials say that the project could save the campus nearly half a million dollars in energy costs annually.

Photo courtesy: Mt. SAC Artist rendering of the new business and computer complex.

Photo courtesy: Mt. SAC
Artist rendering of the new business and computer complex.

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 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: $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 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.