new Alhambra Place on the way

28 Pages·2014·7.3 MB·English

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Chamber
to install
new board
June 27
Lee Lieberg, co-owner of Lee Lieberg, Landz Real Estate, will be
installed as president of the Alhambra
Landz Real Estate, will Rendering of the new Alhambra Place at Garfield and Main.
Chamber Board of Directors at the
be installed as Chamber
Chamber’s 111th Installation Dinner
president at the Alhambra on June 27.
Chamber of Commerce’s
All new Alhambra
111th Installation Dinner on
Friday, June 27, in Almansor The Installation’s theme
Court’s Lakeview Room, 700 is “An Alhambra Tradition,
S. Almansor St. The Alhambra Chamber of
Place on the way
The installation will honor Commerce.”
2013 President Frank Chen, Music will be provided
the Chamber board of direc- by Ronny and the Classics.
tors, and new officers. Seats are $65 per person. With the City Coun- Greg Anderson, senior vice combination of large and small
The program will include Platinum Tables are $2,500, cil’s formal approval president of Shea Properties, and national retailers, restaurants with
dinner, dancing, and the in- which includes 10 VIP seats of the Specific Plan other representatives from the spaces for outdoor dining, plazas
stallation of the new Chamber and an ad and listing in the Amendment and required de- company shared with the City for enjoying the outdoors while
president and officers as well event program and Around velopment permits for the Al- Council their plans for their shoppers regenerate for the next
as presentations of the Out- Alhambra newspaper. Gold hambra Place property, located development that will include shopping experience, and paseos
standing Community Service Tables are $1,000, which at the southeast corner of Main 260 luxury apartment homes for strolling. Shea Properties
Award, the Outstanding Busi- includes four preferred seats and Garfield, real estate devel- and 140,000 square feet of retail plans to achieve this with the
ness of the Year Award, and the and listing in the event pro- oper Shea Properties is now space, as was previously approved remodel of the Mervyns building
recognition of the Alhambra gram and Around Alhambra. closer to developing the site and by the City in 2006. Shea Prop- and the complete demolition and
Chamber of Commerce 2014 Silver Tables are $650. providing the community with erties’ plan is different from the reconstruction of the remaining
scholarship winners. For more information, a new urban lifestyle center that original 2006 plan in shape and building along Main Street and
Cocktails and appetizers or to make reservations, will include an exciting mix of style but creates a lifestyle center Garfield Avenue.
will be served at 6 p.m. Din- contact the Chamber at retail and restaurant tenants to offering the community a place to Bank of America will remain
ner will be served at 7 p.m. 626-282-8481. enhance the Alhambra Down- shop, dine, and live. in place, and the Bank of the West
town experience. The retail center includes a will relocate into the project. The
>> see ALHAMBRA PLACE Page 10A
CITY NEWS PAGE 2A Garfield, Monterey Highlands
CHAMBER NEWS PAGE 13A
elementary schools honored as
COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 17A
ACADEMIC NEWS PAGE 24A 2014 Distinguished Schools
For their strong commitment and innovative “I applaud these strong, thriving schools that are
approaches to improving student academic making such impressive strides in preparing their
achievement, State Superintendent of Pub- students for continued success,” Mr. Torlakson said
lic Instruction Tom Torlakson named Garfield in a statement. “This award is well-deserved by these
and Monterey Highland elementary schools as school communities for their enduring dedication
2014 California Distinguished Schools. Both to high standards, hard work, and unwavering
schools were recognized at the May 13 AUSD support.”
Board of Education meeting, with parents, stu- The 2014 California Distinguished Schools
dents, and staff attending in abundance. Program focuses on California’s students’ right
>> see DISTINGUISHED SCHOOLS Page 27A
H H H H H H H Gearing up for See Pg. 4A. H H H H H H H H
2A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 06/2014
How to Contact
Be prepared for an emergency
Your Representatives
CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS
By Mayor Stephen Sham
626-570-5010
Mayor Stephen Sham
If you missed the first two Find out on this tour. Take a tour of
Vice Mayor Gary Yamauchi
classes earlier this year, the last of the San Jose Creek Water Reclamation
Councilmember Luis Ayala
a series of Emergency Prepared- Plant and the Puente Hills Materials
Councilmember Barbara Messina ness Seminars is scheduled for Recovery Facility, two of the Los
Councilmember Dr. Steven Placido Saturday, Sept. 6. Angeles County Sanitation Districts’
This basic training seminar, key facilities, on Saturday, June 7. San
conducted by the Alhambra Fire Jose Creek is from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
President of the United States
Department with the assistance and Puente Hills is from 10:30 a.m.
Barack Obama (D)
of several experts in the field to 12:30 p.m. Both tours will begin at
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington D.C. 20500
and co-sponsored by many local the Sanitation Districts’ main office at
U.S. Senator emergency agencies, will help 1955 Workman Mill Road, Whittier.
Dianne Feinstein (D) participants prepare for a major Adults and children over the age of 10
11111 Santa Monica Blvd. #915, Los Angeles, CA 90025
emergency or natural catastro- are welcome. RSVP by June 3. Please
310-914-7300
phe and will teach basic survival contact Nell at 562-908-4288, ext.
Washington D.C. 202-224-3841
skills to keep one’s family and 2300, or by e-mail at nmadigan@lacsd.
U.S. Senator neighborhoods safe and secure Mayor Stephen Sham org.
Barbara Boxer (D) until the arrival of emergency Tennis champions – all levels
312 N. Spring St., #1748, Los Angeles, CA 90012
personnel. This class will focus on developing
213-894-5000
In addition to preparedness available to those who sign up for hand-eye coordination, balance, and
Washington D.C. 202-224-3553
advice from Alhambra Police the Alhambra CERT (Community proper technique for ages 5 – 14.
U.S. Rep. 27th District and Fire personnel, other experts Emergency Response Team) training Coach Slattery played on the Men’s
Judy Chu (D) will include Dr. Lauren Bear of program. Tennis Team at USC and served as
527 S. Lake Ave, Suite 106, Pasadena, CA 91101 the Alhambra Unified School Displays will enhance the training a volunteer coach for USC’s Men’s
626-304-0110
District, Dr. Margaret Vinci provided, disaster supply kits will be Tennis. Coach Slattery has devised a
Washington D.C. 202-225-5464
from Cal Tech’s Office of Earth- available for purchase, and various variety of fun drills that will improve
[email protected]
www.chu.house.gov quake Programs, and represen- disaster preparedness supplies will be the student’s tennis skills and general
tatives from the American Red raffled off. athleticism. Beginning and advanced
Governor Cross. There will be information Have you ever wondered what students will benefit greatly from this
Jerry Brown (D) about more advanced training happens to your trash and sewage? innovative program.
C/O State Capitol, Suite 1173, Sacramento, CA 95814
510-628-0202
State Senator 22nd District Alhambra Beautiful Awards judging to begin
Kevin De Leon (D)
1808 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026
213-483-9300
Sacramento 916-651-4022
Judging for the Alhambra Beautiful Awards will begin Judges will evaluate
[email protected]
soon in two categories: residential and commercial. homes in each City
State Assembly 49th District The residential category consists of single-family Council district, and
Ed Chau (D) homes. The commercial category is for buildings, condo several awards will be
1255 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 306, Monterey Park, CA 91754 developments, and businesses in general. given out in each dis-
323-264-4949 Fax [phone]
The Alhambra Beautiful Award program was founded trict. The commercial
Sacramento 916-319-2049
by the late Helen Wysong, a longtime Alhambra resident category will be judged
[email protected]
asmdc.org/members/a49 who, with a small group of Alhambrans, urged Alhambra on a city-wide basis,
homeowners to be diligent in keeping up their properties with several businesses
County Supervisor 5th District and who recognized those who did with the Alhambra receiving recognition. The winners will be announced in
Michael D. Antonovich
Beautiful Award. late summer.
215 N. Marengo Ave., #120, Pasadena, CA 91101
“Past award winners have demonstrated a pride of own- The criteria that home owners and business owners
626-356-5407
ership and excellence in home upkeep and maintenance, should consider in preparing for the judging is lawn up-
Los Angeles 213-974-5555
[email protected] and their extraordinary efforts have helped contribute to keep and landscaping, as well as the overall condition of
www.antonovich.com the overall appearance of the City’s landscape, which ben- the home or building.
efits the entire community,” said Councilmember Barbara “With this in mind, now is the time for some spring
State Board of Equalization District #4
Messina. cleaning, planting some flowers, freshening up the paint,
Jerome E. Horton, Vice Chair
A team of judges will be dispatched across the City of and replacing that rusted old chain-link fence with a nice
1100 Corporate Center Dr., Suite 203, Monterey Park, CA 91754
323-980-1221 Fax [phone] Alhambra beginning in June, with the goal of identifying picket fence,” said Mayor Stephen Sham.
[email protected] those businesses and homes that are most deserving of an For more information, please contact the Chamber
www.boe.ca.gov Alhambra Beautiful Award. office at 626-282-8481.
06/2014 CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 3A
Recent City Council actions
is a monthly publication with a total circulation of The following are highlights from the April 28 and May for scholarships and sponsorship into local fire academies.
40,000. It is mailed to every business and residence in
12 City Council meetings. Alhambra Place Specific Plan Amendment
the city of Alhambra. Around Alhambra is also mailed
Honorary certificates and proclamations The City Council has approved a site specific plan sub-
to all interested local, state and county officials.
Certificates of Service – Outgoing members of the City’s mitted by Shea Properties for the property at the southeast
various boards and commissions, recognized for their out- corner of Main and Garfield, commonly known as the
We welcome comments, press releases and
standing and dedicated service, were James Richetts, eight “Alhambra Place Center.” The proposed commercial and
community interest stories and will make every
years Planning Commission; Nora Hernandez, seven years residential development consists of a four-story residential
effort to include all appropriate information.
HCDA Citizen Advisory Committee; and Leland Hamby, component with 260 luxury apartments and a commer-
For advertising rates and other information, contact two years Parks & Recreation Commission. cial component consisting of up to 140,000 square feet of
Alhambra Chamber of Commerce Martha Foster, a long-time senior volunteer, accom- retail and restaurant space. For more specific information
104 S. First St., Alhambra, CA 91801 panied by Deputy Director of Community Services Jim about the proposal, see the related article on page 1A.
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] Venegas, received a proclamation recognizing May as Contract awards
www.alhambrachamber.org Older Americans Month in Alhambra, as part of a national Several contract awards were approved including the
effort to recognize older Americans for their contributions. 2015 Tournament of Roses Parade Float, design engineer-
With approximately 12,500 Alhambra residents aged 60 ing services for the City’s annual HUD street rehabilitation
and older, the month-long celebration at Joslyn Center was project, and food services pertaining to the 2014 USDA
kicked off with a special brunch followed by special events, Summer Lunch program at four city park locations. (See
seminars, and activities providing specialized information related article below) Additionally, the Police Department
and services based upon the theme of “Safety Today, will purchase two Automated License Plate Reader
Healthy Tomorrow.” (ALPR) Systems (funded by an Urban Area Strategic
Alhambra Rotary Club President Denis Kerechuk Security Initiative Grant), and the Fire Department will
Executive Committee
President: presented a check to the Alhambra Fire Department in purchase an All-Terrain Logistical Support Vehicle and
Frank Chen, Law Offices of Frank W. Chen the amount of $2,100 to help support the purchase of fire- Transport Trailer (funded by a Homeland Security Grant).
Vice President: fighting helmets for the Alhambra Fire Explorers Program. HUD-funded programs
Lee Lieberg, Landz Real Estate The program, associated with the Boy Scouts of America, The City’s Annual Action Plan, which identifies
Immediate Past President: is open to local residents who are a minimum of 15 years HUD-funded programs and income derived from these
Valarie Gomez, West San Gabriel Valley YMCA old. It provides opportunities for young people to develop programs, has been approved for 2014-2015. Community
At-Large members:
leadership skills and work alongside firefighters, para- Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and HOME
Robert Fukui, High Point Marketing
medics, and fire prevention officers, assisting them with funds are provided to the City of Alhambra by the Depart-
Mark Paulson, Anthony Venti Realtors
public education activities. Explorers typically volunteer ment of Housing and Community Development (HUD),
Walter Tang, Superior Scientific
their time on Saturdays, training and assisting with special and are used to support Fair Housing Services, Housing
assignments, such as open houses and community events. Rehabilitation, Code Enforcement, Public Services, and
Board of Directors
The program offers successful participants an opportunity Capital Improvements, as well as program administration.
Oriana Chan, Wells Fargo Bank
Evike Chang, Evike.com
Iris Lai, Alhambra Hospital Medical Center
Elizabeth Martinez, Republic Services Alhambra’s parks offer free summer
Joe Pavon, Al’s Towing
Todd Sakamoto, The Mailbox Shop
Marissa Castro-Salvati, So. California Edison lunches, snacks, recreation, crafts
Helen Romero-Shaw, So. California Gas Company
Lorraine Simpson, Credit Union of Southern California
Dr. David Snyder, Optometrist Monday, June 2, is the beginning day for children, ages 1 to 18, to enjoy free weekday lunches and snacks in
Joanna Vargas, The Fit Factor Studio
Alhambra’s four major parks under the auspices of the U. S. Department of Agriculture’s Summer Food Service
Victoria Deise Wilson, The Alhambra
Program. The program will be in effect through Aug. 8.
Kevin Yamauchi, Tri-Star Vending
Lunches and snacks will be served on a first-come, first-served basis during the following time periods:
Staff
Executive Director: Sharon Gibbs
Membership/Advertising Sales: Stan Yonemoto
Legislative Affairs: Owen Guenthard
Office Manager: Irma Hernandez
Editor: Dulcy Jenkins
Writers: William Kinman and Sarah Grear
Office Assistant: Rosemarie Valerio
All lunches and snacks must be consumed on the site in the designated area and are served regardless of race,
Published by: Alhambra Chamber of Commerce
color, national origin, sex or handicap. Any person who believes he or she has been discriminated in any USDA
related program should write to Secretary of Agriculture, Washington, D.C., 20250.
AROUND ALHAMBRA is not responsible nor liable for any claims or offerings,
nor responsible for product availability that may be advertised. Opinions The City of Alhambra will conduct its regular, free, summertime recreational activities in the four parks, in-
expressed in columns, letters and guest editorials are those of the authors. cluding tournaments, games, special events, and other activities coordinated by trained recreation leaders, plus a
All rights reserved. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission is
twice-a-week arts and crafts program. The schedule for these activities is as follows:
prohibited.
Both the recreational activities and the arts and crafts program are free activities.
No reservations are required.
4A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 06/2014
Celebrate 4th of
July in Alhambra
Spectacular fireworks will illuminate the
sky over Almansor Park, 800 S. Almansor
St., beginning at 9 p.m. on the 4th of July,
after a day-long celebration with picnicking,
enjoying music and entertainment, carnival
games, and much more.
Arrive at the park early to get a conve-
nient parking spot and stake out a section of
the park’s grass. Revelers can bring their own
picnic supplies or enjoy the offerings of local
food vendors.
Carnival games, a collection of challeng-
ing and enjoyable games for just 25 cents
a pop, will be coordinated by members of
high school service organizations. Money
collected from the games will assist the or-
ganizations in the good works they do in the
community each year. The carnival begins at
1 p.m. and continues throughout the day.
Also featured during the afternoon hours
will be “American fun and games,” typical
American picnic activities, such as sack
races, three-legged races, and egg races.
Home-based stage entertainment will that is turning local concert-goers into die-
begin mid-afternoon, featuring local hard fans. Hits Daily Double calls The Bolts
individuals and groups performing dance, “one of the best bands in L.A.”
comedy, musical performances, and more. To ensure the enjoyment of everyone,
At 7:30 p.m., the featured stage perform- please note that Alhambra parks are dog-
ers of the evening — The Bolts — will rock free, alcohol-free, smoke-free, and (except
the crowd with their unique blend of music for the 9 p.m. spectacular) fireworks-free.
06/2014 CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 5A
About Alhambra’s water
supply, the 2014 drought,
water conservation in the
San Gabriel Valley
BY MARK R. PAULSON, Q. When has
DIRECTOR SAN GABRIEL California experienced
VALLEY MUNICIPAL droughts before?
WATER DISTRICT A. The most
A series of articles in Q. significant statewide
& A. format droughts occurred during
The year 2014 began 1928-34, 1976-77, 1987-
with a drought emergen- 92, and 2007-09. The
cy declaration from Gov- last significant regional
ernor Brown on Jan. 17 drought occurred in parts
that was followed by an of Southern California in
announcement from the 1999-2002.
California Department of Q. Is there a
Water Resources on Jan. drought in 2014 in the
31 that the State Water San Gabriel Valley? In
Project was suspending California?
water deliveries. This A. By any mea-
meant no replenishment sure, California and the
water for our ground- San Gabriel Valley are in
water supplies in the San Gabriel Valley. an extended drought.
Coupled with record dry weather, a good • Rainfall: California got less rain
thing happened. Actually two good things in 2013 than in any year since it became
happened. a state in 1850. Locally, we’ve had a few
First, people everywhere in California inches of rain since July 1, 2013, when the
began talking about water. Newspapers, “water year” starts from a record-keeping
TV and radio news, and the Internet were standpoint – less than 50% of our normal
flowing with news of the record drought precipitation. The Los Angeles area averag-
and what to do about it. Conferences are es about 15 inches of rain a year; however,
springing up everywhere, and government, the rainfall was 12 inches in 2011, 8 inches
business, and community organizations are in 2012, 2 inches in 2013, and 5-6 inches
putting water on their agenda. Residents so far this year.
and businesses are asking what they can do Q. What sources of our water are being
to save water and save money. Potentially, affected by the drought?
the drought may help create conditions A. The drought results from a “triple
where the Legislature and the Governor threat” lack of precipitation in the follow-
will act on needed water-related legislation, ing geographic areas:
infrastructure, and funding. • San Gabriel Mountains which feed
The second good thing that happened local wells and water supplies.
is that the month of March came in like a • Sierra Nevada Mountains which
lion — a very wet lion. A multi-day storm feed the Owens River, the L.A. Aqueduct,
has given a big assist to water supplies in the Northern California, the Sacramento-San
Valley, Southern California, and the State. Joaquin River Delta, and the California
We need to keep this recent precipitation Aqueduct.
in perspective, however. It’s not a drought • Western U.S. and the Rocky Moun-
buster, and knowledgeable water experts tains, which feed the Colorado River.
predict we would need five similar storms
just to return to normal water conditions.
That is not going to happen. The fact is, it
takes a long time to get into a drought and
a long time to get out.
School board member
Adele Andrade-Stadler
named Woman of Distinction
School board member Adele An- Commission, after serving on both the
drade-Stadler was recently selected by Planning Commission and the HCDA
Congressman Judy Chu as one of the Citizen’s Advisory Committee.
“2014 Women of Distinction” in the 27th She works with the West San Gabriel
Congressional District and was honored by Valley YMCA and Soroptimist Interna-
the Alhambra City Council. tional of Alhambra, San Gabriel, and San
The City Council noted Ms. An- Marino, and participates in the local Parent
drade-Stadler’s community service Teacher Association, serving as council
associations including her City Board and president. She served as the chairwoman
Commission service. She just completed for the recently completed Relay for Life in
multiple years on the City’s Transportation Alhambra Park.
6A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 06/2014
Library offers summer reading programs for children, teens, adults
Teen Summer Reading Program July 10. Adult Summer Reading Program
The Teen Summer Reading Program begins June 2 at Robot Workshop on Thursday, July 17. Registration The Adult Summer Reading Program begins on Mon-
the Civic Center Library, 101 S. First St. Read at least one required; materials are limited. day, June 2.
hour per day for opportunities to win book prizes and gain Food Science and Teen Summer Reading Program Adults are asked to visit “Summer Reading Central,”
reading incentives. Finale on Thursday, July 24. located in the Homework Center, to share what they have
Events are scheduled at 2 p.m. each Thursday in the Children’s Summer Reading Program been reading. Each report earns a small incentive gift and
library’s Reese Hall. Attendance at these programs will gain The Alhambra Civic Center Library’s Children’s an entry in an opportunity drawing for prizes.
teens an extra opportunity ticket for that week’s book prize Summer Reading Program, “Fizz, Boom, Read!” will offer Classic films will be shown that originated from a book
raffle. entertainment every Monday. No registration is required, that one can read, report on, and earn goodies for as a
The programs include: but with limited space, the doors will be closed 15 minutes result of these efforts.
Summer Reading Program kickoff and screening of after the start of the program. The films, all showing at 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays in Reese
Ender’s Game (PG-13) on Thursday, June 5. Children, ages 0 to 12, will be asked to read (or have Hall, include:
Gaming Day on Thursday, June 12. books read to them) for at least 100 minutes each week. • Sense & Sensibility (PG) on June 3, starring Emma
Learn to code HTML Style on Thursday, June 19. Weekly visits to the library, following the 100-minute Thompson (who is also the screenwriter) and Kate Winslet.
Throwback Thursday and a screening of Bill & Ted’s reading fix, will earn participants fun prizes, including a • Salt (PG-13) on June 10, starring Angelina Jolie.
Excellent Adventures (PG) Thursday, June 26. free book to take home. • The Magnificent Seven (NR) on June 17, with Yul
Java Script for Fun on Thursday, July 3. The free programs are at 3:30 p.m. Mondays in Reese Brenner and Steve McQueen.
Make Your Own Spa Products Spa-tacular on Thursday, Hall. The schedule includes: • As Good as it Gets (PG-13) on June 24, starring Jack
• Mad Science “Fire and Ice” on June 2. Nicholson.
• Michael Rayner Found Object Juggling Show on • The Matrix (R) on July 1, starring Keanu Reeves and
June 9. Laurence Fishburne.
• Despicable Me (PG) on June 16. Special events, starting later in the month, include:
• Jazzy Ash & the Leaping Lizardson June 23. • Flora Tsang leads a class on making miniature clay
• John Abrams’ Animal Magicon June 30. food at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 21, in Reese Hall. Partici-
• Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (PG) on July 7. pants will go home with something that looks delicious.
• Rudy’s Radical Science on July 14. Space is limited. Phone [phone], extension 1, or
101 S. First St., Alhambra, CA 91801 • Buster Balloon on July 21. visit the second-floor reference desk to register.
626-570-5008 Families with children ages 5 to 12 can enjoy the Family • Mike Malaska discusses astrobiology and the search
www.alhambralibrary.org Story Time at 7 p.m. Wednesdays, June 4 through 25 and for alien life at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, in Reese Hall.
July 9 and 16. This program includes stories, puppets, and See separate article on Pg. 8A concerning Mr. Malaska’s
Monday: 11 am - 9 pm other activities. program.
Tuesday: 10 am - 9 pm For further information concerning “Fizz, Boom, • Jan Minkler teaches participants how to make
Wednesday: 10 am - 9 pm Read!” and other Alhambra Civic Center Library programs baskets from the grasses native to Southern California
Thursday: 10 am - 5 pm and services for children, please contact the Children’s at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, in Reese Hall. Space is
Friday: 10 am - 5 pm Room at 626-570-3215, or visit www.alhambralibrary. limited. Phone [phone], extension 1, or visit the
Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm org/kids/kids.html. second-floor reference desk to register.
Sunday: 1 pm - 5 pm
Water Awareness Posters
winners announced
Posters created by Alhambra
students in kindergarten through
eighth grade for the City’s Annual
Water Awareness Poster Contest
were displayed last month at City
Hall to challenge the community
to think creatively about saving
water.
The posters were highlighted
at the City of Alhambra’s recent
Eco-Fair. The artists were honored
with medallions from Mayor Ste-
phen Sham and Vice Mayor Gary
Yamauchi.
Winning Water Awareness
posters were created by:
Division A – kindergarten and
first grade:
7 Things You Must Know Before • First place: Tienchen Lai,
kindergarten, Grace Garden.
Putting Your Home Up for Sale
• Second place: Blest Bangit,
first grade, Ramona School.
Alhambra - A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that
• Third place: Justin Wong,
most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help
you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money. This industry report shows first grade, Park School. Mayor Stephen Sham and Vice Mayor Gary Yamauchi award a
Division B – second through first-place medallion to Eric Sun, a second-grader from Martha
clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less
effective in today’s market. fourth grades: Baldwin School, for his Water Awareness poster contest entry.
The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don’t get what they • First place: Eric Sun, second
want for their homes and become disillusioned and - worse – financially disadvantaged grade, Martha Baldwin School.
when they put their homes on the market. As this report uncovers, most homesellers
• Second place: Emily Tran, worth, fifth grade, Martha Baldwin School.
make 7 deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is
fourth grade, Marguerita School. • Third place: Calista Lee, fifth grade, Martha
that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In answer to this issue,
• Third place: Jessie Jun, Baldwin School.
industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled “The 9 Step System to Get
second grade, Martha Baldwin Division D – seventh through eighth grades:
Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar”.
To order a FREE Special Report, call toll-free 1-888-300-4632 and enter 1000. You School. • First place: Leonor Corona, eighth grade,
can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Division C – fifth through Fremont School.
Get your free special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for sixth grades: • Second place: Aaron Swanson, seventh grade,
your home. • First place: Ariana Araujo, Fremont School.
sixth grade, Park School. • Third place: Sara Suen, seventh grade, Fre-
This report is courtesy of Rudy L. Kusuma Real Estate Broker Lic# 01820322. Not intended
• Second place: Johnny Illing- mont School.
solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2012
06/2014 CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 7A
Upcoming work on the Mosaic Parking Structure will focus primarily on building additional levels of the
structure, one by one, with each level taking about five or six weeks to complete.
Construction team doing its
‘level’ best to complete new
Mosaic Parking Structure
Mosaic Parking Structure Update #5
For the next few months, Alhambrans and support. Added parking is available on
will have to look upward to see the progress the top level of the underground Library
taking place at the new Mosaic Parking parking lot Thursdays through Saturdays
Structure. That’s because with most of the from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. One last reminder is
horizontal, first-floor foundation built, to observe parking rules so that downtown
upcoming work will focus primarily on businesses’ and patrons’ needs are met and
building additional levels of the structure, to avoid getting a ticket.
one by one, with each level taking about Visit the City of Alhambra Web site,
five or six weeks to complete. In the end, www.cityofalhambra.org, and check future
the 5 ½ level parking structure will provide editions of Around Alhambra for ongoing
more than 300 new parking spots and be a updates. Get information and discuss this
great asset for downtown Alhambra’s resi- exciting project on Facebook: facebook.
dents, patrons, businesses, and employees. com/cityofalhambra; on Twitter: twitter.
Everyone is reminded to look for the com/cityofalhambra; and on Instragram:
highly visible parking signage during this Instagram.com/cityofalhambra.
construction period. The Ambassadors will For more information, please contact Chris
be in place Thursday through Saturday Paulson, City of Alhambra, at 626-570-5011
evenings to provide parking information and [email protected].
Police Department
offers Citizens
Academy for Youth
The Police Department is offering its • Handgun safety and awareness.
Citizens Academy for Youth, for ages 11 to • Bullying.
13, during four three-hour sessions from • Decision-making.
9 a.m. to noon on July 7, 8, 9, and 10. • Leadership and character education.
They will learn strategic life skills through • Career and education planning.
interactive instruction that stresses positive • Drugs and gang prevention.
role-modeling alternatives. The academy • The juvenile legal system.
is designed to educate, support and help • A capstone course that focuses on
youth reach their full potential as members values, manners, and societal expectations.
of the community and continue to be out- Required registration forms are available
standing role models for their peers in the at the Alhambra Police Department or,
areas of citizenship, character, and sound electronically, by sending an e-mail to swil-
problem-solving skills that are necessary for [email protected]. Early registration
a successful future. is suggested due to the small class size (20
Highlights of the Academy include students). Students will be invited to attend
instruction in: based on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Internet safety. For more information, please contact
• Traffic and pedestrian safety. Sharon Williams at 626-570-5177.
8A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 06/2014
‘Search for Alien Life’ to
be presented at library
Dr. Mike Malaska, from the Jet Pro- about the chemistry needed for life and
pulsion Laboratory (J.P.L.), will discuss what is known about the chemistry of
astrobiology and the search for alien life at other planets.
7 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, in Reese Hall In his role in planetary science educa-
at the Alhambra Civic Center Library, 101 tion and public outreach, this well-known
S. First St. member of the Planetary Society makes
Dr. Malaska will discuss some of the complicated subject matter accessible and
latest developments in the ongoing search interesting.
for life on other planets and the role JPL This program is free, and all are
researchers play in the search. He will talk welcome.
Recyclebank launches
online shop One Twine
Sustainability pioneer showcases 400 carefully vetted products at OneTwine.com that are
better for home, wallet, and the planet
Recyclebank®, the company that inspires • Merchant buy back – This prod-
and rewards smarter, everyday choices for a uct can be re-sold or given back to the
more sustainable future, recently launched manufacturer.
One Twine, a new online shop to discover One Twine features more than 400
carefully vetted products that are better for products from nearly 30 brands across
home, wallet, and the planet. Each product household, health and beauty, children,
featured on One Twine is reviewed through pets, and gear and gadgets categories.
Recyclebank’s Impact Lens, a selection Shoppers will find a mix of established
process that examines how it’s made, how brands as well as up-and-coming compa-
it’s used, and how it can be disposed. In nies including the following brands:
addition to discovering socially and envi- • 3B Bags
ronmentally conscious goods, customers • Alba Botanica
will also find great deals on the products • Avalon Organics
they love on OneTwine.com. To get even • Babo Botanicals
more value, Recyclebank members can • Bambu
apply the points they’ve earned for learning • Better Life
how to live more sustainably and taking • Born Free
actions toward purchases on One Twine. • Citrus Magic
“Recyclebank’s mission is, and always • Clean Well
has been, to inspire people to live more sus- • Dancing Paws
tainably. We started with recycling and have • Desert Essence
since added other ways for people to easily • ECO Lunchbox
incorporate sustainability into their daily • EO
lives. It is a natural step for Recyclebank • Green’N’Pack
to extend that experience to the products • Greensprouts
our employees believe in, as we are doing • Green Toys
with the launch of One Twine,” said Javier • If You Care
Flaim, CEO of Recyclebank. “People want • J.R. Watkins
products that are gentle on the planet and • Mrs. Meyers
healthy for their families, but it is easy to • Nubian Heritage
get lost among labels, certifications, and • Preserve
marketing messages. We’re taking the guess • Susty Party
work out of finding products that consider • Tom’s Of Maine
their total impact on our planet and in • Weleda
the process giving people another way to • West Paws
incorporate sustainability into their lives.” • WeWood
Building on Recyclebank’s expertise in • Zuke’s
sustainability, every item on One Twine Since 2004, Recyclebank has used a
has been evaluated through its Impact mix of education, rewards, and impact
Lens, a list of nine criteria that consider the metrics to help people live more sustainable
product’s total environmental impact. To lifestyles. Through online engagement and
help people make more informed choices, recycling incentive programs, the company
One Twine clearly displays icons next to has increased recycling rates in more than
each product that highlight which criteria 300 communities, partnered to recycle
it meets and includes insightful content nearly 3.8 billion pounds of waste, and
related to those principles. helped move people toward a more sustain-
One Twine’s Impact Lens considers the able future. Its 4.5 million members earn
following criteria for each product: hundreds of points a year from learning
• Renewable – Made from recycled how to live more sustainably and taking
materials or renewable resources. small actions to achieve real impact.
• Gentle impact – Ingredients and In addition to applying those points
by-products are free of harsh chemicals that toward a discount at checkout on One
may be bad for health or the environment. Twine, Recyclebank members can also shop
• Fair – Makers of this product were on Recyclebank.com’s rewards catalog for
treated fairly. deals on products and services in categories
• Sustainably made – Manufacturer ranging from food and beverage to health
has worked to minimize environmental and beauty, restaurants, entertainment,
impact. sports and recreation, apparel, automotive,
• Efficient – Product more efficiently electronics, and more.
uses resources and/or helps reduce • To download images of One Twine,
pollution. please visit: http://jmp.sh/lRx4Gnk.
• Promotes sustainability – This prod- • If not already a Recyclebank member,
uct makes it easier and more convenient to sign-up by visiting http://www.recycle-
lead a more eco-friendly life. bank.com and following the quick prompts
• Reclaimable – This product itself is to set up an account.
recyclable, reusable, and/or biodegradable. For more information, visit www.Recy-
• Smart packaging – Packaging materi- clebank.com, @Recyclebank, or facebook.
als are minimal and/or made from recycla- com/Recyclebank.
ble, reusable, or biodegradable materials.
06/2014 CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 9A
Residents learn about
eco-responsibility at
Alhambra Eco Fair
Alhambra Park was filled with eco Thanks go to participating organiza-
displays and vendors featuring a variety tions, including:
of products and services, including a • ACS (Associated Construction) Group
popular display of fuel-efficient autos, • Alhambra Nissan
at the Eco Fair on May 3. The event • Allied Waste/Recycle Bank
promoted environmental awareness with • Amigos de los Rios
ideas for reducing energy costs, curbing • Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
waste, and limiting water consumption. • California Verde Corporation
There was a recognition ceremony to • Day One Pasadena
honor children who won praise for their • Edison
Alhambra Park was filled with eco displays and vendors featuring a variety of products and services that
Water Awareness posters, a performance • Geo Promotions promoted environmental awareness on May 3.
by the Tom Nolan Band, and children’s • Girl Scouts
face-painting, gourmet food trucks, • Goudy Honda
and numerous free giveaways and raffle • Green Source Tech
prizes. • Home Depot
City of Alhambra Departments • L. A. County Department of
added to the eco-education with infor- Public Works
mation on stormwater pollution pre- • RGS (Real Goods Solar) Energy
vention and water conservation, as well • San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water Dist.
as information concerning recreational • South Coast AQMD
activities provided by the Community • Southern California Gas Company
Services Department, safety informa- • Sungreen Systems
tion provided by the Alhambra Police • Tree People
Department, and information about • West Coast Arborists
“Closing the Gap.” • Wondries Toyota
Beat the heat by cooling
off at an Alhambra pool
San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District’s “Owly” had fun with the kids at Eco Fair.
With multiple 100+ temperature days are scheduled throughout the day, from 10
this past spring, children and adults alike are a.m. through 6:30 p.m.
looking forward to the opening of the City’s General pool information is available
swimming pools on Saturday, June 14. at the Aquatics Hotline: [phone].
Although much pool time will be devot- Information concerning swim lesson
ed to swim lessons, there will be plenty of times, dates, and reservations is available
opportunities for recreational swimming. at 626-570-3255 and the Community
Summer swim lessons fill quickly, so it is Services headquarters at 626-570-5081, as
important to reserve a space early. Lessons well as online at www.cityofalhambra.org.
Recycle HHW, E-waste
HHW/E-waste - The County’s pro- phoning Allied Waste Services (AWS) at
gram to collect Household Hazardous 888-742-5234. Residents must phone at
Waste (HHW) and E-waste will take place least 24 hours in advance to schedule the
from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21, at pick-up. E-waste items are only picked
the Rose Bowl parking lot “K”, 1001 Rose up on Wednesdays, and an advance call
Bowl Blvd., Pasadena 91103. to AWS is required. For additional infor-
Acceptable items for disposal include mation, visit the City’s Web site at www.
motor oil, antifreeze, paint, paint thinner, cityofalhambra.org.
turpentine, cleaners with acids or lye, pes- Recyclebank – The Recyclebank.com
ticides and herbicides, household and car Web site now features a brand new look
batteries, old computers and television sets, with many enhancements so it is easier
sharps or used needles, and expired phar- to navigate, enabling customers to make
maceuticals and mercury thermometers. smarter and more sustainable choices. Re-
Unacceptable items include explosives, cyclebank has also announced the launch
ammunition or radioactive materials, of One Twine, an e-commerce Web site
waste from businesses, trash or old tires, featuring more than 400 products from
and white goods such as washers, stoves, nearly 30 brands, which are rated through
refrigerators, or air conditioners. One Twine’s “Impact Lens” – a list of nine
To prepare items for disposal at the criteria that take into account a product’s
County’s HHW/E-Waste Collection event, total environmental impact. The company
limit the number of items to 15 gallons or is hoping to attract consumers looking to
125 lbs. per vehicle. Bring items in a sturdy buy environmentally conscious goods and
box, preferably in their original labeled other sustainable items across a variety of
containers. Be prepared to leave the con- categories, ranging from health and beauty
tainers, and do not mix products together. to gear and gadgets, to children and pets,
For more information, phone and more. Recyclebank members can apply
800-238-0172. the points they’ve earned for learning how
Bulky items – Single-family residents to live more sustainably and taking actions
can have up to four bulky items picked up toward purchases on One Twine. Visit the
at their regular curbside trash location by site at https://onetwine.recyclebank.com.
10A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 06/2014
Several instances of mail theft from • If there is an address change,
residential mailboxes have been report- immediately notify the post office and
ed to the Alhambra Police Department anyone with whom one does business
during the past couple of months — via regular mail.
most occurring in the southern section • Consider starting or joining a
of the city (below Mission Road) and in Neighborhood Watch program. If a mail
the northwest section. Con artists look theft is observed, contact the Alhambra
to steal mail, especially checks that con- Police Department immediately at 626-
tain identity information, and to secure 570-5151, and then phone the U.S.
other items of value. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-
While an arrest was made in one of 2455. To start a Neighborhood Watch
the incidents after a resident reported group or to participate in the Vacation
suspicious activity, residents should al- House Check program, contact the
ways be on the alert and minimize their Police Department’s Crime Prevention
risk of becoming a victim by taking the Office at 626-570-5177.
following steps: • Check out where crimes are hap-
• Never send cash in the mail. pening in the city and in one’s neighbor-
• Promptly remove mail from the hood by logging onto the RaidsOnline
mailbox, especially if expecting checks, Web site, which is linked to the City’s
credit cards, or other negotiable items. Web site, at www.cityofalhambra.org in
If going on vacation, have the post office the Police Department section under
hold mail or ask a friend to pick it up. Crime Statistics/Crime Map Online. The
If going on vacation, participate in the Web site compiles crime reports from
“Vacation House Check” program, the Alhambra Police Department and
whereby Citizens on Patrol police vol- places them on a pin map indicating
unteers check homes during the time what type of crime, where, and when it
away. This program is a public service occurred in the city.
to help safeguard citizens’ property and • Attend Alhambra Night Out,
to allow for a rapid response and owner which will take place Aug. 5, on the
notification in the event of a problem. lawn of the Alhambra Police Depart-
• If a check or other valuable mail ment. More details to come in the next
piece doesn’t arrive as expected, contact issue of Around Alhambra.
the issuing agency immediately.
Register for Basketball
Sports Camp
Session I of the City of Alhambra Bas- The players will
ketball Sports Camp, Beginning Basket- also learn lessons about self-es-
ball, begins at 9:30 a.m. Monday, June 30, teem, teamwork, and the value of
at the Almansor Park Gymnasium. Reg- hard work.
istrations are still being taken for Session Session II, Intermediate Bas-
I, which will run for two weeks through ketball, runs from Monday, July
Friday, July 11. Parents of 7- through 14, through Friday, July 25, also from 9:30
13-year- old children are encouraged to a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Mondays, Tuesdays,
register soon as registration will be closed Thursdays, and Fridays at the Almansor
when the camp membership is filled. Park Gym. Registration is open until July
The Session I registration fee is $30, 14 or until the camp membership is filled.
which includes a free Sports Camp T-shirt. The $30 fee for Intermediate Basketball
Through daily lessons and workouts, from also includes a free Sports Camp T-shirt.
9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Mondays, Registration for both sessions may be
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, the completed weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
participants will become better basketball either in person at the Almansor Park Rec-
team players through their practice of reation Division Office, 800 S. Almansor
ball-handling, dribbling, and defense. St., or by phone at 626-570-5081.
ALHAMBRA PLACE From Page 1A
architecture for the center brings a fresh new look to
Downtown Alhambra with a bright, contemporary
design featuring crisp lines and a variety of materials
including woods, metals, unique details, ambient
lighting, and lots of trees and landscaping. Shea Prop-
erties will provide ample parking for the retail and
a parking structure on site that will service both the
retail and the new residential units along Bay State.
This new center includes a four-story residential
complex composed of 260 luxury apartment homes,
complete with its own clubhouse, gym, pool, and
spa. The apartments will include mostly one- and
two-bedroom units, and a few studios and three-bed-
room units with quality amenities such as granite
countertops and other high-end finishes. The resi-
dential structure, fronting Bay State, exhibits classic
brownstone features with well-defined cornices, Jef-
fersonian arched entryways into the three main areas
along Bay State, and lush landscaping to beautify the
street. As the project turns the corner onto Garfield,
the architecture transitions to a contemporary design,
using the materials found in the commercial portion
of the center.
Shea Properties is working with tenants for the
retail and restaurant spaces and believes the project
could begin by late summer and have the retail open
for the holiday in 2015.