May 2014 Section A

28 Pages·2014·6.56 MB·English

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Eat, drink,
indulge at
Taste of
Alhambra
June 1
Enjoy samples of food from
Alhambra’s finest restaurants
plus wine and music at the 12th The 12th annual Taste of Alhambra will take place Sunday, June 1. Enjoy
The Chamber’s golf tournament will take place Thursday, May 15, at the annual Taste of Alhambra from 5 p.m. food, wine, and music.
Alhambra Golf Course. Tournament sponsors are, from left, Jerry Wisz, Alhambra
to 8 p.m., Sunday, June 1 in Downtown
Golf Course; Tony Iskandar, Goudy Honda; Judy Quach, Alhambra Hospital
Alhambra on South Second Street, just
Medical Center; Charles Ma, Bob Wondries Ford; and Maria Gao, Evike.com.
south of Main Street. More than 1,400 people attended the event last year to
“Try out new restaurants and get enjoy the food, wines, brews and spirits, hand rolled cigars,
acquainted once again with old favorites,” and music.
Chamber golf
said Mike Fata, Downtown Alhambra The Grooveline band will entertain.
Business Association board member. Proceeds will benefit the Alhambra Educational
>> see TASTE OF ALHAMBRA Page 9A
tournament May 15:
‘Play Fore the Kids’
The Chamber’s “Play Fore the Kids” golf tournament will
take place at noon Thursday, May 15, at the Alhambra
Golf Course, 630 S. Almansor St. Registration and
check-in will begin at 10:30 a.m.
This year’s tournament will feature a Corporate Cup trophy
competition and opportunities for individual golfers to win prizes.
There will also be Closest to the Pin on all par three holes, Longest
Drive Contest, and two hole-in-one chances to win a car, courtesy
of Goudy Honda and Bob Wondries Ford.
>> see CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT Page 17A
CITY NEWS PAGE 2A
CHAMBER NEWS PAGE 13A AEF’s Service to Education Awards honorees for “Education” were the four elementary music teachers of AUSD, from left: Jim
Hamilton, Julie Sorenson, Lisa Jones, Dave Batti, with AEF President Steve Perry.
COMMUNITY NEWS PAGE 19A
AEF celebrates teachers,
ACADEMIC NEWS PAGE 25A
leaders at 10th Annual Service
to Education Awards Dinner
The spirit of community service was honored at by AEF President Steve Perry, presented the Service
the 10th Annual Service to Education Awards Din- to Education awards, four of which honored the
ner and Gala, hosted by the Alhambra Educational talented elementary music teachers of the Alhambra
Foundation (AEF) on March 29 at the Hilton Los Unified School District. Fittingly, the night ended
Angeles/San Gabriel. The festive evening, emceed with live music and dancing.
>> see AEF 10TH ANNUAL DINNER Page 25A
2A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 05/2014
How to Contact
Prepare for emergencies, get ‘green’
Your Representatives
CITY ELECTED OFFICIALS
By Mayor Stephen Sham
626-570-5010
Mayor Stephen Sham
Spring Eggstravaganza Bear, Ph.D., Alhambra Unifi ed School
Vice Mayor Gary Yamauchi
Many families were at Alman- District; Dr. Margaret Vinci, Offi ce of
Councilmember Luis Ayala
sor Park on Saturday, April 19, Earthquake Programs for Cal Tech; and
Councilmember Barbara Messina for this year’s Spring Eggstgrava- a representative from the American Red
Councilmember Dr. Steven Placido ganza. A “Pancake Breakfast With Cross. Th e educational presentations will
the Bunny” was sponsored by the be followed by a question-and-answer
Alhambra Fire Association. Al- period, and there will be displays set up
President of the United States
hambra Firefi ghters volunteered by Alhambra CERT, the American Red
Barack Obama (D)
their time to serve more than a Cross, Cal Tech, an emergency supply
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington D.C. 20500
thousand pancakes to the event vendor, Neighborhood Watch, and the
U.S. Senator goers. Photo opportunities with Alhambra Fire and Police departments.
Dianne Feinstein (D) the Bunny continued throughout Disaster supply kits will be available
11111 Santa Monica Blvd. #915, Los Angeles, CA 90025
the day. A Penny Carnival enter- for purchase, and disaster preparedness
310-914-7300
tained the young, and young at items will also be raffl ed off at the end of
Washington D.C. 202-224-3841
heart, along with arts and crafts each meeting (winner must be present).
U.S. Senator activities in the fi eld. Th e City Mayor Stephen Sham Alhambra’s annual family friendly,
Barbara Boxer (D) departments provided informa- eco-friendly Green Event
312 N. Spring St., #1748, Los Angeles, CA 90012
tion booths on city services and Be prepared for an emergency Th e City of Alhambra’s Eco Fair is
213-894-5000
the 710 Close the Gap campaign. Please attend the upcoming Emer- scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Washington D.C. 202-224-3553
Rotary Club of Alhambra was gency Preparedness seminar on Satur- Saturday, May 3, at Alhambra Park, 500
U.S. Rep. 27th District another sponsor of the event. day, May 3. It will be hosted by the N. Palm Ave. It is a fun family event with
Judy Chu (D) Th e Rotary booth provided in- Alhambra Police and Fire departments tips on ways to save money and adopt a
527 S. Lake Ave, Suite 106, Pasadena, CA 91101 formation on their current service from 10 a.m. to noon at the Alhambra lifestyle that will help sustain the planet
626-304-0110
projects. Fire Station #71, 301 N. First St. – a combination of results that should
Washington D.C. 202-225-5464
Th e main attraction was Th is seminar will help inform and encourage every resident to attend this
[email protected]
www.chu.house.gov the Helicopter Egg Drop at 10 prepare Alhambra residents and mem- important annual event.
a.m. Th e sky was fi lled with bers of their households what to do, Th e fun notwithstanding, it’s the
Governor candy-fi lled eggs, dropping from where to go, and what skills and tools “greener life,” and a greener planet, that
Jerry Brown (D)
a helicopter onto the Almansor to have ready when an emergency is the main focus of the day as attendees
C/O State Capitol, Suite 1173, Sacramento, CA 95814
Park turf for all to enjoy. Kids and situation or natural disaster occurs. learn more about solar energy, examine
510-628-0202
family members all rushed in for In addition to the Alhambra Police eco-friendly automobiles, learn about
State Senator 22nd District the eggs. It was a fun-fi lled day for and Fire departments, additional energy conservation and conservation
Kevin De Leon (D) our community. presenters will include Dr. Laurel programs, get more.
1808 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026
213-483-9300
Sacramento 916-651-4022
Alhambra parks will offer kids free Summer
[email protected]
State Assembly 49th District
Food Service Program, arts, crafts
Ed Chau (D)
1255 Corporate Center Drive, Suite 306, Monterey Park, CA 91754
323-264-4949 Fax [phone]
Sacramento 916-319-2049 Alhambra’s popular Summer Site Lunch Snack
[email protected] Food Service Program, for anyone
Alhambra Park
asmdc.org/members/a49
ages 1 to 18, will once again feature
500 N. Palm Ave. noon - 2 p.m. 3:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.
free lunches and snacks, and crafts
County Supervisor 5th District Almansor Park
and other fun activities at four park
Michael D. Antonovich 800 S. Almansor St. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
215 N. Marengo Ave., #120, Pasadena, CA 91101 sites. Th e program will take place Granada Park
626-356-5407 Monday through Friday, from
2000 W. Hellman Ave. noon - 2 p.m. 3:30 p.m.- 4 p.m.
Los Angeles 213-974-5555 Monday, June 2 through Friday,
Story Park
[email protected]
Aug. 8. Th e City of Alhambra
www.antonovich.com 210 N. Chapel Ave. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Community Services Department
State Board of Equalization District #4 will conduct the program that is ad- All meals are available without at 560 J St., Ste. #270, Sacramento
Jerome E. Horton, Vice Chair ministered by the City of Alhambra regard to race, color, national origin, 95814.
1100 Corporate Center Dr., Suite 203, Monterey Park, CA 91754 through the California Department age, sex, or disability. Any person who For more information, please con-
323-980-1221 Fax [phone] of Education (CDE). believes that he or she has been dis- tact the Recreation Division Offi ce at
[email protected]
Th e food service program will be criminated against should contact the 626-570-5081 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.,
www.boe.ca.gov
served at the following locations: California Department of Education Monday – Friday.
05/2014 CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 3A
Recent City Council actions
The following are highlights from the City Council meet-
is a monthly publication with a total circulation of
ings that took place March 24 and April 14.
40,000. It is mailed to every business and residence in
Proclamations
the city of Alhambra. Around Alhambra is also mailed
to all interested local, state and county officials. April was proclaimed as “DMV/Donate Life California
Month” in Alhambra to bring attention to the need for or-
We welcome comments, press releases and gan donors (recognizing that there are more than 121,000
community interest stories and will make every individuals nationwide waiting for an organ donation)
effort to include all appropriate information. and the possibility to save a life by checking “yes” when
applying for or renewing a driver’s license or I.D. card or by
For advertising rates and other information, contact
signing up at www.donateLIFEcalifornia.org.
Alhambra Chamber of Commerce
Three young women, Marina Salazar, Kristie Sham
104 S. First St., Alhambra, CA 91801
and Pauline Truong, were congratulated and commended
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
for being selected to receive the 2014 Violet Richardson
www.alhambrachamber.org
Award presented by Soroptimist International of Alham-
bra, San Gabriel, and San Marino in recognition of their
extraordinary community service.
Boards & Commissions appointments
Names of new and returning board and commission
appointments were announced for the current term which
commenced March 24 and ends on March 23, 2015. See April was proclaimed as “DMV/Donate Life California Month” in
Alhambra to bring attention to the need for organ donors. Mayor
related article on page 12A.
Stephen Sham presents a proclamation to Rachael Rodriguez, an
Parks improvements Alhambra ambassador for Donate Life.
A contract with South-
ern California Rooms
Inc. was approved for the
Executive Committee
replacement of the picnic
President:
shelters at Alhambra Park.
Frank Chen, Law Offices of Frank W. Chen
Traffic improvements
Vice President:
With the construction
Lee Lieberg, Landz Real Estate
Immediate Past President: of the Mosaic Parking
Valarie Gomez, West San Gabriel Valley YMCA Structure on North First
At-Large members: Street, it has been deemed
Robert Fukui, High Point Marketing necessary to install a traffic
Mark Paulson, Anthony Venti Realtors signal at Garfield and
Walter Tang, Superior Scientific Talmage Burke Way which
will help channel vehicles
Board of Directors
to a major roadway con-
Oriana Chan, Wells Fargo Bank
structed to handle heavy
Evike Chang, Evike.com
traffic and reduce extra
Iris Lai, Alhambra Hospital Medical Center
vehicle trips on a neighbor- Marina Salazar, Kristie Sham, and Pauline Truong were commended for being selected to receive the 2014
Elizabeth Martinez, Republic Services
Violet Richardson Award presented by Soroptimist International of Alhambra, San Gabriel, and San Marino.
hood street (First Street).
Joe Pavon, Al’s Towing
Todd Sakamoto, The Mailbox Shop A stop sign and stop
Marissa Castro-Salvati, So. California Edison bar will be installed for
Helen Romero-Shaw, So. California Gas Company east-bound vehicles on and Sons Inc. for upcoming sewer repairs changes made by the State Water Resources
Lorraine Simpson, Credit Union of Southern California Pine Street approaching in the vicinity of Commonwealth and Control Board over the last five years.
Dr. David Snyder, Optometrist Monterey Street to delin- Chapel avenues, while another contract November election
Joanna Vargas, The Fit Factor Studio eate where vehicles should was approved with Hunsaker & Associates A resolution was approved to consoli-
Victoria Deise Wilson, The Alhambra
stop and wait before enter- for engineering design services for sewer date the City’s General Municipal Election
Kevin Yamauchi, Tri-Star Vending
ing the flow of traffic on mainline improvements on Valley Boule- with the Statewide General Election to
Monterey Street. A center vard and Almansor Street. take place on Nov. 4. The Municipal
Staff
yellow line will also be The City has updated its five-year Sewer Election will be composed of open, full-
Executive Director: Sharon Gibbs
striped on Pine Street. System Management Plan required by term offices for City Councilperson of the
Membership/Advertising Sales: Stan Yonemoto
Sewer system the State Water Resources Control Board First, Second, and Fifth Districts, as well as
Legislative Affairs: Owen Guenthard
Office Manager: Irma Hernandez management reflecting organizational changes, updated member of the Board of Education for the
Editor: Dulcy Jenkins Sewer Improvement program goals, changes in operations and Alhambra Unified School District for the
Writers: William Kinman and Sarah Grear Projects – a contract was maintenance programs due to the purchase Fourth and Fifth Districts. See page 4A for
Office Assistant: Rosemarie Valerio approved with Mike Prlich of new equipment, and incorporation of related article.
Published by: Alhambra Chamber of Commerce
AROUND ALHAMBRA is not responsible nor liable for any claims or offerings, Emergency Preparedness
nor responsible for product availability that may be advertised. Opinions
expressed in columns, letters and guest editorials are those of the authors.
All rights reserved. Reproductions in whole or in part without permission is
prohibited. Seminars offered May 3, Sept. 6
Two Emergency Preparedness Seminars are scheduled to be ready when an emergency or natural disaster occurs.
from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday May 3 and Sept. 6 at Alham- In addition to the Alhambra Police and Fire depart-
bra Fire Station 71, 301 N. First St. ments, additional presenters will include Dr. Lauren
Each two- Bear, Ph.D., Alhambra Unified School District; Dr.
hour presenta- Margaret Vinci, Office of Earthquake Programs for Cal
tion will help Tech; and a representative from the American Red Cross.
inform and pre- The educational presentations will be followed by a
pare Alhambra question-and-answer period. There will be displays set up
residents and by Alhambra CERT (Community Emergency Response
their household Team), the American Red Cross, Cal Tech, an emergency
members what supply vendor, Neighborhood Watch, and the Alhambra
to do, where to Fire and Police departments. Disaster supply kits will be
go, and what available for purchase. Disaster preparedness items will
skills and tools be raffled off at the end of each meeting (winner must
they must have be present).
4A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 05/2014
Alhambra General
Municipal Election is Nov. 4
On Tuesday, Nov. 4, the Alhambra Mu- registered voter in the council district that
nicipal Election will take place alongside he or she wishes to represent at the time
the General Election to fill the following he or she files the required Declaration
City Council and Alhambra Unified of Intention. He or she must also have
School District Board of Education seats: resided in the council district from which
• Councilperson of the First District. he or she is nominated for at least 30 days
• Councilperson of the Second preceding the filing of the Declaration of
District. Intention.
• Councilperson of the Fifth District. A candidate for the Board of Educa-
• Member of the Board of Education, tion must be an elector of the Alhambra
Fourth District. Unified School District, a registered voter
• Member of the Board of Education, in the nominating district that he or she
Fifth District. wishes to represent at the time he or she
In order to become a candidate for files the required Declaration of Intention,
any of the above offices, a Declaration of and must have resided in the nominating
Intention must be obtained from and filed district from which he or she is nominated
with the Alhambra City Clerk between 8 at least one month prior to his or her nom-
a.m. Monday, June 16, and 5 p.m. Tuesday, ination. Nominating Certificates must be
June 24. If an incumbent Councilmember secured from the Alhambra City Clerk
or Board of Education member does and circulated not earlier than 113 days or
not file by June 24, the Declaration of later than 88 days prior to Election Day.
Intention filing period for that office only Filing for All Nominating Certificates
is extended for non-incumbents to 5 p.m. shall be filed with the Alhambra City
Monday, June 30. Clerk, July 14 to Aug. 8, 2014.
To be eligible to run for office in this Residents are invited to contact the
election, candidates must be citizens of the City Clerk’s Office, 626-570-5090, if in-
United States and 18 years of age or older. terested in running for any of these offices,
In addition, a candidate for City or regarding any questions concerning the
Council must be an elector of the city, a election process.
VISIT THE CHAMBER ONLINE AT
alhambrachamber.org
05/2014 CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 5A
About Alhambra’s water
supply, the 2014 Drought,
and water conservation in
the San Gabriel Valley
BY MARK R. PAULSON, Local experts estimate the
DIRECTOR SAN GABRIEL Valley has enough water
VALLEY MUNICIPAL in reserve right now to
WATER DISTRICT meet the Valley’s needs for
A series of articles in Q. several years even if the
& A. format drought continues.
Q. How are under- • Some people believe
ground water supplies in the adage that “we will
managed and controlled not run out of water, but
so that Alhambra gets its we will run out of cheap
fair share? water.” To a degree, we
A. Given the size and are protected by larger
topography of the San regional water storage
Gabriel Valley, it’s not sur- facilities and a reduction
prising that groundwater in water demand resulting
levels throughout the Val- from effective water con-
ley vary from location to servation efforts.
location — it is true that • For cities served by
different locations in the the San Gabriel Valley
Valley have more water or more accessible Municipal Water District, we have been
water than others. And, some wells in the preparing for water shortages like this,
San Gabriel Valley are polluted or contam- effectively providing you with “water
inated. Water rights and pumping rights insurance.” In other words, as residents
are complicated — for example, Monterey in our service area use water from local
Park relies on water that is pumped from wells, we’ve been actively helping to refill
wells located in Rosemead. or replenish the groundwater that supplies
Thus, many years ago the Main San the wells.
Gabriel Basin Watermaster was created to • The current drought (2014) means
manage and protect groundwater resources less water is available in the Valley and in
within the Main San Gabriel Groundwater the local mountains to help supply our
Basin. local groundwater system, and the recent
Q. Is Alhambra going to run out of suspension of water deliveries via the State
water given the drought? Water Project means we have less water
A. No. Because the San Gabriel Valley available to replenish those groundwater
Municipal Water District and other water supplies. Thus, our water insurance is
agencies throughout the Valley have declining — reservoir levels are lower,
employed sound water management prac- groundwater levels are lower, snow packs
tices for several decades, and because the throughout local and regional mountain
Valley has reduced consumption by more ranges are lower. And, despite occasional
than 15% in recent years through water rain in the first few months of 2014, the
conservation, the Valley is not in imme- Valley remains in a long-term drought.
diate jeopardy of major water shortages. To be continued …
City Ventures completes Main
Street Collection
A grand opening and ribbon cutting took place April 5 for the City Ventures Alhambra Main Street
Collection project to acknowledge its completion at 410 W. Main St. It is a brand new community of
86 energy-efficient residential units and 8,200 square feet of retail space with convenient street-level
parking. Commercial entities already leased on the property include Chase Bank, Nancy’s Pizza, Al’s
Beef, and Allstate. The Alhambra City Council commended City Ventures, LLC, for enhancing business
and residential opportunities in Downtown Alhambra and contributing to the community’s desirability.
From left are Assemblymember Ed Chau; Bill McReynolds, City Ventures vice president of Development;
Congresswoman Judy Chu; and Alhambra Mayor Stephen Sham.
6A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 05/2014
City’s first Spring Eggstravaganza a sweet success
An estimated 9,000 parents and children came to
Almansor Park on April 19 to participate in the City’s
first Spring Eggstravaganza. The event included a pancake
breakfast sponsored by the Alhambra Firefighters Asso-
ciation, a visit by a floppy-eared bunny, spring-themed
carnival games, and arts and crafts activities.
The main attraction of the day was the up-close view of
a helicopter hovering about 50 feet off the ground while
dropping thousands of candy-filled eggs onto the Alman-
sor Park field.
Then the excitement continued as children ages 1-4 had
the opportunity to hunt for thousands of eggs and to have
their picture taken with the bunny, as well as to obtain a
variety of other free giveaways.
About 9,000 parents and children came to the City’s first A helicopter dropped thousands of candy-filled eggs onto Almansor Park
Spring Eggstravaganza, which took place April 19 at field.
Almansor Park.
Be cool this summer in a City of Alhambra Pool
The City’s summer aquatics programs health care provider before enrolling in this information about the Aquatics programs,
will be offered June 14 – Aug. 2, with a program.) call the Aquatics hotline at 626-570-5093. NEW! Two one-week swim lesson programs
will be offered this summer; Guppy Guards
post-summer program continuing through Swim lessons will be conducted concur- To speak with someone in person, contact
(for swimmers 7-11 years of age) and Jr.
Sept. 28. The summer program will include rently at Alhambra and Granada Pools and the pool office during regularly scheduled Lifeguards (for swimmers 11-14 years
American Red Cross style group swim les- are offered at a variety of times, either during swim times at 626-570-3255, or phone the of age). These end-of-summer fun and
skill enhancing programs will put newly
sons, individual “one-on-one” swim lessons the week or on Saturdays. Class sizes are business office Monday through Friday, 8
developed swim skills to the test and enhance
for all levels and abilities, lap swim lanes, limited, so register early. Weekday lessons a.m. – 5 p.m. at 626-570-5081. them even further by focusing on water
and recreational swim. As a part of the will be conducted Monday through Friday safety, endurance, and stroke development
in a fun aquatic environment. The week-
regular swim schedule at the Granada Park at10 a.m., 10:40 a.m., 11:20 a.m., 4:30
long programs will be conducted Monday
Pool, a limited number of adaptive swim p.m., 5:10 p.m., 5:50 p.m., and 6:30 p.m.
– Friday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. during the week of
lessons will also be offered to participants For pre-recorded information about July 28 – Aug.1. A swim test is required to
with limited motor skills and abilities. session dates, swim attire, rules and determine participant’s skill level.
(Participants are advised to consult their regulations, fees, registration or general
How to Sell High:
Avoid these Three Mistakes
When Selling Your Home
Alhambra - When you decide to sell your home, setting your asking price is one of the
most important decisions you will ever make. Depending on how a buyer is made aware of
your home, price is often the first thing he or she sees, and many homes are discarded by
prospective buyers as not being in the appropriate price range before they’re even given a
chance of showing.
Your asking price is often your home’s “first impression”, and if you want to realize the
most money you can for your home, it’s imperative that you make a good first impression.
This is not as easy as it sounds, and pricing strategy should not be taken lightly. Pricing
too high can be as costly to a homeseller as pricing too low. Taking a look at what homes in
your neighborhood have sold for is only a small part of the process, and on its own is not
nearly enough to help you make the best decision. A recently study, which compiles 10 years
of industry research, has resulted in a new special report entitled “Homesellers: How to Get
the Price You Want (and Need)”. This report will help you understand pricing strategy from
three different angles. When taken together, this information will help you price your home
to not only sell, but sell for the price you want.
To order a FREE Special Report, call toll-free 1-888-300-4632 and enter 1016. You can
call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Get your free special report NOW to learn how to price your home to your maximum
financial advantage.
This report is courtesy of Rudy L. Kusuma Real Estate Broker Lic# 01820322. Not intended
solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2012
05/2014 CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 7A
Progress on the new Mosaic Parking Structure is visible now.
Visible progress
made on new Mosaic
Parking Structure
Mosaic Parking Structure update #4
Wherever people look Downtown, Alhambra Business Association to provide
progress on the new Mosaic Parking Struc- up-to-the-minute construction updates to
ture is visible: whether it’s the new parking help everyone enjoy their Downtown expe-
signage, the friendly and helpful Parking rience,” said Project Manager and Director
Ambassadors, or the construction site itself. of Administrative Services Martin Ray.
For the first time since demolition and Chris Paulson, assistant to the city
grading work began in January, “vertical” manager, said, “We are managing con-
construction made the emerging Mosaic struction and communications on a daily
Parking Structure visible to passersby. Secu- basis, staying on top of the situation. We
rity fencing has blocked views the past few are monitoring activity in the Downtown
months of much of the work being done area and trying to be proactive to make life
at ground level. Now, residents, businesses, as convenient as possible for our residents,
employees and visitors to Main Street can businesses, and patrons. So far, we’ve had
see the progress being made on the 5-½ very few disruptions, and the community
level, 300+ parking space facility located has been tremendously supportive and un-
on North First Street. derstanding of the process and long-term
From the ground up, in March and benefits.”
April, construction milestones included Everyone is reminded to look for the
completion of grading, pouring of the highly visible parking signage during this
concrete footings, and building of both construction period, and that the Ambas-
columns and exterior walls, which rise sadors will be in place Thursday through
about 20 feet and past the first level of the Saturday evenings to provide parking
new parking structure. In addition, the information and support. Added parking
electrical equipment room was formed, is available on the top level of the under-
and preparations for the elevator installa- ground Library parking lot Thursdays
tion were begun. through Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
In late April, the concrete slab on One last reminder is to observe parking
the ground floor was poured. With the rules so that downtown businesses’ and
facility’s foundation and infrastructure in patrons’ needs are met and to avoid getting
place, construction the next few months a ticket.
will focus on adding floors, installing the Visit the City of Alhambra Web site,
elevator and, ultimately, landscaping and www.cityofalhambra.org, and check future
project completion, which is still targeted editions of Around Alhambra for ongoing
for October. updates. Get information and discuss this
Meanwhile, the City’s customer service exciting project on Facebook: facebook.
and parking assistance efforts have contin- com/cityofalhambra; on Twitter: twitter.
ued so that effects on local businesses and com/cityofalhambra; and on Instragram:
employers are minimized. Instagram.com/cityofalhambra.
“The City will continue to work with For more information, please contact
property managers and owners, the Cham- Mr. Paulson, at 626-570-5011 and cpaul-
ber of Commerce, and the Downtown [email protected].
Register for summer
Leisure Classes
The full range of City of Alhambra When signing up for a Leisure Class,
Leisure Classes will get underway in June, don’t miss out on the summer camps for
while the registration period for those kids being offered through Community
classes – including all offerings in parent Programs.
and child classes, enrichment classes, music The list of classes and registration
classes, dance classes, health & fitness class- procedures are spelled out in detail in the
es, yoga classes, and tennis classes – begins summer/fall City of Alhambra Leisure
Monday, May 5. Classes, Activities & Excursions Guide,
To ensure participation in the most available at www.cityofalhambra.org, or
sought-after classes, it is recommended to phone [phone] during weekday
register early. business hours.
8A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 05/2014
Keep up with recycling news
Bring household hazardous waste and Saturday, May 17 at 1060 S Greenwood
e-waste to free local roundups in May Ave., Montebello, and an English-language
Two free collection events will take class will take place on Saturday, May 31,
place this month to dispose of household at the Pasadena Senior Center, 85 E. Holly
hazardous waste and electronic waste: St. Both workshops will take place from
(1) Saturday, May 17 at the West Covina 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Maintenance Yard, 825 Sunset Ave., and Advanced level workshops introduce
(2) City of El Monte Airport, 4233 N. landscape design, landscaping with native
Santa Anita Ave. Both events will take place friendly plants, installing a water-efficient
from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are sponsored irrigation system, organic gardening, the
by the County of Los Angeles Department art and science of good soil, environmen-
of Public Works. Hazardous waste items tally sound pest management, water con-
include antifreeze, car batteries, and used servation, and the use of drought-tolerant
motor oil. E-waste includes old televisions, plants. Two such workshops will take place
computer monitors, and stereos. There on Saturday, May 24, at the L.A. County
is a limit of 15 gallons or 125 pounds of Arboretum, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia
household hazardous waste per vehicle. For (there is a $9 entrance fee to the Arbore-
more information, contact the County of tum, but the class is free), and May 31 at
Los Angeles Department of Public Works Garvey Ranch Park, 781 S. Orange Ave.,
at 888-CLEAN LA or www.888CleanLA. Monterey Park.
com, or the Sanitation Districts of Los An- The City of Alhambra assists residents
geles County at 800-238-0172, or www. who would like to take up composting by
lacsd.org. selling composting bins for just $15. For
Spring is perfect time to learn smart more information, phone [phone].
gardening techniques Live green, earn points, get rewards
In addition to monthly free household Recyclebank members can use some of
hazardous waste and e-waste collection their reward points for special offers pro-
events, the County hosts free Saturday vided by these new and renewed National
morning Smart Gardening Workshops to Rewards participants: Banana Republic,
help residents learn to improve their lawn Regal Entertainment Group, Ruby Tues-
and garden while reducing waste through day Restaurant, Macy’s, Turkey Hill Dairy,
various composting methods. No reserva- Sazzi Footwear and U-Konserve. To acti-
tion is needed to attend. vate an account, go to www.recyclebank.
Beginning level workshops provide com, or phone [phone], or get the
hands-on instruction on composting, worm Recyclebank app for smart phones to reg-
composting, grass-cycling, and water- and ister an account. Start earning points right
fire-wise gardening. A Spanish-language away.
Beginning Workshop will be offered on
Basketball Sports Camp
offered June 30 to July 25
The City of Alhambra will offer a Sum- SESSION II: INTERMEDIATE BAS-
mer Basketball Sports camp to help chil- KETBALL July 14 - July 25
dren, ages 7 to 13, to become better team Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday
players on and off the court. In addition 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
to practicing ball-handling, dribbling, and $30, includes a free Sports Camp T-shirt
defense, players will also learn important Registration will be accepted in person
lessons about self-esteem, teamwork, and at the Recreation Division Office at
the value of hard work. All camps will take Almansor Park, 800 S. Almansor St.,
place at the Almansor Park gym. Alhambra, or by phoning 626-570-5081.
Register through Tuesday, July 14, or Office hours are Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.
until the Sports Camp is full. to 5 p.m. Registration is on a first-come,
SESSION I: BEGINNING BASKET- first-served basis.
BALL June 30 - July 11 For more information, please phone
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 626-570-5081, or visit the City of Alham-
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. bra Web site at www.cityofalhambra.org.
$30, includes a free Sports Camp T-shirt
City offers Super Stars
Club June 2 to July 25
The City of Alhambra will once again Registration begins on Monday, April
offer the Summer Super Stars Club, the 21. Registration will be accepted in per-
ultimate program for children ages 5 to son at the Recreation Division Office at
8, from June 2 – July 25. Almansor Park, 800 S. Almansor St., or
Youngsters will learn the rules and by phoning 626-570-5081. Office hours
skills of popular sports, including kick- are Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to
ball, flag football, baseball, dodge ball, 5 p.m. Registration is on a first-come,
soccer, badminton, basketball, and field first-served basis. Fee: $30 (includes a
hockey. Children will also learn import- free Super Stars T-shirt)
ant aspects of participation, teamwork, For more information, please phone
and sportsmanship. Sessions will be one 626-570-5081, or visit the City of Alham-
hour long. bra Web site at www.cityofalhambra.org.
05/2014 CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 9A
Police Department runs
Republic Services offers online
Challenge Cup Relay –
payment service, more for
Baker To Vegas 2014
commercial waste customers
“120 miles of pavement, 20 stages, over The officers run the race as a relay Mobile apps provide a more conve- Until then, commer-
8,000 runners, guests, family members, consisting of 20 individual stages that are nient, faster way to conduct business. In cial customers who pay
and support staff. Hot days and cold five to seven miles in length and cover 120 the near future, Republic Services, the Republic directly are
nights. Blood. Sweat. Pride. Honor” is miles. Each officer runs one of the stages City’s commercial waste hauler, will intro- invited to log into the My
what the world’s most prestigious and in an effort to help their agency be the first duce its own mobile-friendly application Resource™ portal, which is
unique law enforcement foot race is all to cross the finish line at the Las Vegas Ho- to make it easier for commercial custom- available online at www.
about. Starting in Baker, Calif., and end- tel Grand Ballroom. As a team, Alhambra ers who are invoiced through Republic republiconline.com. This technology en-
ing in Las Vegas, Nev., law enforcement officers averaged an 8-minute, 28-second Services to pay bills and make service ables customers to pay their bills, schedule
officers from around the globe battle it (8:28) mile over the mountains, desert, requests via their smart phone, tablet, or a pickup, and manage their accounts using
out every spring for the chance of win- and hills leading into Las Vegas. other mobile device. either their cell phones or PCs.
ning the coveted cup trophy. And once It took the 20 runners 16 hours, 56
again, officers from the Alhambra Police minutes, and 45 seconds to cross the
Department accepted the challenge of the finish line. Though they did not finish in
120-mile relay race. first place this year, their fifth place finish
The 2014 race was run the weekend makes their efforts worthy of admiration
of March 22 – 23. There were 261 teams for their achievement and fortitude to
in this year’s race with officers from the finish strong. The Alhambra officers are
Alhambra Police Department competing eager to bring home the First Place Cup
in the “99 Division” with 13 other police and bragging rights to Alhambra and are
agencies that have 99 or fewer police already focusing on next year’s Baker to
officers. Vegas Relay.
What are you doing to reduce water use in
response to the drought?
With California’s severe drought, use about 6 gallons). Run washer and
more residents than ever are taking steps dishwasher only when full, and save up
to reduce their water use according to to 1,000 gallons a month.
a statewide survey conducted by the • Purchase a front-loading washing
Public Policy Institute of California. machine, which tends to be more
The City of Alhambra does not place energy and water-efficient in place of a
restrictions on water use but encourages top-loading washing machine, unless it
prudent use of water supplies, such as is an energy-efficient model.
by implementing alternate day watering • Plug the sink to rinse razors in-
schedules. stead of letting water run, and save up
For more water-saving and to 300 gallons. Also, turn off the water
eco-friendly ideas, come to the Alham- while brushing teeth and save up to 4
bra Eco Fair on May 3 from 10:30 a.m. gallons a minute.
to 2:30 p.m. at Alhambra Park, 500 N. • Wash pets outdoors in an area of
Palm Ave., and help the City celebrate the lawn that needs water.
Water Awareness Month with practical • For a typical pop-up sprinkler
knowledge and tips about how to con- irrigation system with five to eight sta-
serve natural resources. There will be tions, cutting the cycle by two minutes
family friendly activities and entertain- at each one will save at least 80 gallons
ment. Some basic water conservation every time the sprinklers come on.
suggestions follow: • Aerate the lawn periodically.
• If a toilet was installed before Holes every six inches will allow water
1992, install a water-saving model. Also to reach the roots.
install a water-saving faucet. • Use 2 to 4 inches of organic mulch
• Take only a 5-minute shower and around plants to reduce evaporation
save up to 1,000 gallons per month. and save hundreds of gallons of water
• Check all hoses, connectors, a year. Only use minimum amount of
sprinkler systems, and faucets for leaks. fertilizer, as fertilizer increases water
One drip every second adds up to five consumption.
gallons per day. Install water-saving • Signs of overwatering: leaves turn
aerators on all faucets. For more im- light shades of green or yellow, young
mediate hot water and energy savings, shoots wilt, and growth of algae or
insulate hot water pipes. fungi.
• Avoid washing dishes by hand, • Go vegan – People who don’t eat
which generally uses about 20 gallons met or dairy indirectly consume nearly
of water use each time, whereas 600 gallons of water per day less than a
EnergyStar® dishwashers use about 4 person who eats the average American
gallons per load (standard dishwashers diet.
TASTE OF ALHAMBRA From Page 1A
Foundation. all food and beverages. Tickets will be
“Enjoy a culinary exploration of $60 at the festival.
the many fine restaurants Alhambra is For more information, phone the
known for,” said Educational Founda- Alhambra Chamber of Commerce,
tion President Steve Perry. 626-282-5767.
The ticket price is $50 and includes
10A CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA 05/2014
The City of Alhambra and American Legion Post 139 will present a Memorial Day Ceremony on May 26
at Alhambra Park.
City of Alhambra, American
Legion to present Memorial
Day Ceremony May 26
The City of Alhambra, in conjunction Visitors will have the opportunity to
with American Legion Post 139, will cele- view the newly installed brick memorial,
brate Memorial Day on Monday, May 26, located directly in front of the Veterans
by commemorating the men and women Memorial inspirational quote wall, which
from all branches of the military who have features the names of Alhambra residents
fought and sacrificed their lives to protect who died in the line of duty while serving
the country and freedom in time of war. in the military.
The annual Memorial Day Ceremony A small reception will take place in the
will take place at the Alhambra Park park immediately following the ceremony.
Veterans Memorial, 500 N. Palm Ave. The American Legion Post 139, located
The ceremony will commence at 11 a.m. at 24 N. Stoneman Ave., will also host a
to honor, recognize and thank all military reception at the Post after the park event.
personnel. The ceremony will feature a For more info, please phone 626-570-
dove release and a musical performance by 3242, or visit the City of Alhambra Web
the Alhambra High School Band. site at www.cityofalhambra.org.
Bakery, organic grocery among
tenants eyed by Pacific Plaza
With the completion of the Alhambra Ms. Lin will direct the store’s cooking
Pacific Plaza, located at the southeast classes, but suggested that the classes will
corner of Main and Third streets, antici- not be just about cooking. She said they
pated early next year, Alhambra residents will also encompass opportunities to learn
will get their wish fulfilled for an organic about setting up a kitchen and food sci-
grocery store within city limits. At a recent ence so everyone can “learn how to cook
City Council meeting, business partners easier, more simply, and with money-wise
Joseph Lee and Theresa Lin described savings.” She also said that she has a “lot
their new grocery store concept. of very famous chef friends” who will be
Mr. Lee is a highly experienced grocer. invited to teach European, Italian, and
He worked for 99 Ranch Market for 17 even fusion type cuisine.
years and has opened 10 supermarkets. Developer James Chou updated the
This will be his first store to focus on City Council on other aspects of the proj-
organic products. Ms. Lin is the author ect, noting other complimentary tenants,
of 16 bestselling cookbooks throughout including the 85° Bakery Café, a famous
Asia. Lauded as “The Julia Child of Taiwanese bakery that has nine other
Taiwan,”she has been retained as a food Southern California locations, including
consultant for dozens of gourmet Chinese stores in West Covina, Chino Hills, Haci-
restaurants and food companies around enda Heights, and Torrance.
the world and has won international The Plaza will also be the second loca-
cooking competitions. tion for the Lazy Ox Canteen Restaurant,
The Lifestyle of Health and Sustainabil- which features a unique seasonal American
ity supermarket – or LoHas – will feature menu as well as international selections.
fresh fish, meats, and organically-grown The restaurant’s Web site, http://lazyox-
produce, as well as an in-store kitchen to canteen.com, notes that its ingredients are
be used for cooking classes. According to sourced locally, purchased from reputable
Mr. Lee, the roughly 11,000-sq-foot store purveyors, and prepared artistically at an
will feature a high-end appearance similar approachable price. Entrees range from
to a Whole Foods Market, but will be the Lazy Ox burger to pan seared salmon,
more affordable, “closer to a Trader Joes.” striped bass, pumpkin gnocchi, and por-
LoHas will reflect the community’s cini risotto, to name a few. The restaurant
diversity and provide a variety of products currently operates a location in the Little
to serve the needs of the entire Alhambra Tokyo area of Los Angeles.
community. “We’re not going to open an Mr. Chao also noted that all 120
Asian supermarket here,” Mr. Lee said. residential condominiums have been
“We want to open the market to the reserved, and 35 more individuals have
whole community.” been placed on a waiting list.