December 2015 Section A - Alhambra Chamber of Commerce

Transcription

12/2015
The 2016 Rose Queen and Court are, from left, Rose Princesses Sarah
Shaklan, La Cañada High School; Rachelle Liu, San Marino High
School; and Bryce Bakewell, Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy; Rose
Queen Erika Winter, Flintridge Preparatory School; and Rose Princesses
Regina Pullens, Maranatha High School; Natalie Hernandez-Barber,
Alverno High School; and Donaly Marquez, Blair High School.
The City of Alhambra will pay homage to its city parks with its 127th Rose Parade float “Parks Make Life Better.”
Rose Queen, Court Design of Alhambra’s 2016 Rose
to visit Dec. 8
Parade float will showcase
at Almansor Court’s Lakeview Room
how ‘Parks Make Life Better’
T
he 27th annual Rose
Queen and Court
Luncheon, hosted by
the Alhambra Tournament
of Roses Committee and
the Alhambra Chamber of
Commerce, will take place at
noon, Tuesday, Dec. 8.
Meet the 98th Rose Queen
and her court in the Lakeview
Room of Almansor Court, 700
S. Almansor St., Alhambra.
Ginger Chan, KTLA-5 traffic
anchor, will emcee the event.
The court and the queen will
lead the 127th Rose Parade,
which is themed “Find Your
Adventure,” on New Year’s Day.
Tickets for the luncheon are
$40 per person. Reservations
must be made by Nov. 23.
Those reserving tables of 10
E
ach year, the Rose Parade
sets the tone for a year
of new endeavors. In
2016, the 127th Rose Parade’s
theme is “Find Your Adventure”
to help shine light on the
centennial celebration of the
nation’s national parks. Both
the Tournament of Roses and
the National Park Service aim
to preserve history, connect
people through real-life experiences, and engage the public in
new adventures while providing
them with encouragement to
>> see ROSE PARADE FLOAT Page 7A
>> see ROSE QUEEN Page 15A
CITY NEWS PAGE 2A
CHAMBER NEWS
PAGE 14A
COMMUNITY NEWS
PAGE 18A
ACADEMIC NEWS
PAGE 25A
The Alhambra High School Speech & Debate Team celebrates a successful league season opener at Arcadia High
School.
Alhambra High School Speech & Debate
gets a good start on another full season
T
he Alhambra High School Speech and
Debate Team’s competition season is now
in full swing. With the Package Deal
Tournament at Arcadia High School and the
Spartan Fall Classic at Schurr High School, the
team continues its mark of excellence. At Package
Deal, the season opener for the Southern California Debate League, the novice squad won 15
>> see AHS SPEECH AND DEBATE TEAM Page 25A
2A
CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA12/2015
Mayor’s Corner
Be ready for El Niño storms
BY MAYOR LUIS AYALA
Meteorologists believe there is a strong
probability of a precipitation-inducing
weather pattern known as El Niño occurring late this fall and winter. While this
may be welcomed from a water supply
and drought-relief perspective, we urge
everyone to plan ahead and be prepared
for side-effects such as flooding, mudslides,
fallen trees, downed power lines, and more.
Before the storms hit, it’s wise to make
sure things like records, insurance policies,
and valuables are updated and secure, that
you inspect roofs, storm drains, sump
pumps, rain gutters, trees, and stock up on
sand bags. You can purchase rain barrels
that help collect rain water that can be used
for irrigation and refilling pools and spas.
Thank you for your water conservation
efforts this past spring and summer. It takes
a long time to get into a drought and a long
time to get out, so even if we get a strong
El Niño, we’ll need everyone to continue
their smart water saving behavior. For more
information, visit our Web site at www.
cityofalhambra.org. Here are some tips to
follow:
Pre-planning for El Niño
•Develop a family and business
emergency plan
Every family or business needs to
communicate in the event of emergencies.
Talk about how you can work together,
what responsibilities each family member
or employee should have, how to reach
one another, pets, escape routes, meeting
places, and storing and securing valuables.
• Maintain emergency contact information and supplies
It’s a good idea to have emergency contact information (police, fire, paramedics,
doctor, hospital, insurance policies, etc.) in
safe, accessible locations, and on your cell
phone. Keep emergency supplies (food,
water, tools, batteries, flash lights, clothing,
extra keys, etc.) in your garage and car
trunk.
•Seek advice from licensed contractors and insurance firms
Once the storms arrive, local utilities
and roofers, electricians, plumbers, and
landscapers will be working under emergency conditions. Now is the time to
meet with them to make sure your home,
business, apartment, or condo is inspected
and repaired. Make sure your contractors
are licensed, and check references.
Call your insurance agent about coverage for wind, fire, and flooding. Discuss
the scope and limitations of your present
policies.
Around the house
• Trim trees
Every year, it is wise to trim tree
branches to reduce the risk of fire and
falling branches. Top heavy trees can fall
over during wet, windy weather. Remove
branches that hang over roofs, gutters, and
chimneys, and remove trees that stand too
close to structures.
•Install sand bags and mulch for
erosion control
Fire stations and home improvement
stores are good sources for sand bags. Place
sand bags and mulch near slopes, driveways, curbs, doors, garage doors ... wherever storm water run-off and mudslides are
likely.
•Have roofing professionally inspected and repaired
Your roof protects your family and your
possessions. Preventative roof maintenance
is much less expensive in the long run.
• Clean rain gutters
Leaves, twigs, bird droppings, nests,
feathers, and other residue can clog rain
gutters resulting in both heavy, broken
gutters and leaks onto other parts of your
structure. Clean them out with a ladder,
brush, rake, or leaf blower.
• Install rain barrels
Rain barrels are available from some
municipalities for free or with a rebate.
You may purchase them both online and
at home improvement stores. They may
be connected to a gutter or near a runoff
location. Use the saved water to irrigate
your vegetation or to fill your pool or spa.
• Clean storm drains
Regularly remove debris that could clog
the drain, or divert water from streets into
private property. All you need is a broom,
rake, gloves, and a garbage can. If the job is
too large, call your local sanitation or street
services department for help.
•Inspect neighboring properties for
risks from trees, brush, and storm water
runoff/mudslides
If neighbors’ trees or hillsides place your
home at risk of damage from overhanging
trees, branches, brush, boulders, rocks,
water, or mudslides, now is the time to talk
with them and obtain professional advice.
Similarly, make sure your property is not
causing problems for neighbors.
•See a fire, flood, or rushing water?
Stay away, stay informed, and call for
help!
Government agencies are professionally
trained to deal with emergency circumstances. Evacuate if instructed to do so.
Do not walk or drive into dangerous fires
or floods and stay away from storm water
channels and basins. Program your cell
phone and e-mail to provide you with
emergency updates. Enroll in special training, such as CERT, if you’d like to know
more about helping yourself and your
community.
12/2015
AROUND ALHAMBRA
3A
4A
is a monthly publication with a total circulation of
40,000. It is mailed to every business and residence in
the city of Alhambra. Around Alhambra is also mailed
to all interested local, state and county officials.
We welcome comments, press releases and
community interest stories and will make every
effort to include all appropriate information.
For advertising rates and other information, contact
Alhambra Chamber of Commerce
104 S. First St., Alhambra, CA 91801
Tel: 626 282-8481 Fax: 626 282-5596
www.alhambrachamber.org
Executive Committee
President:
Robert Fukui, High Point Marketing
Vice President:
Evike Chang, Evike.com
Immediate Past President:
Lee Lieberg, Landz Real Estate
At-Large members:
Frank Chen, Law Offices of Frank W. Chen
Valarie Gomez, West San Gabriel Valley YMCA
Mark Paulson, Anthony Venti Realtors
Board of Directors
Oriana Chan, Wells Fargo Bank
Nickie Chan, LifeWave
Iris Lai, Alhambra Hospital Medical Center
Rafael Garcia , Republic Services
Megan Moloughney, The Ratkovich Co./The Alhambra
Joe Pavon, Al’s Towing
Todd Sakamoto, The Mailbox Shop
Marissa Castro-Salvati, So. California Edison
Helen Romero-Shaw, So. California Gas Company
Lorraine Simpson, Credit Union of Southern California
Dr. David Snyder, Optometrist
Walter Tang, Superior Scientific
Joanna Vargas, The Fit Factor Studio
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 Adriana Maestas
Office Assistant: Rosemarie Valerio
Published by: Alhambra Chamber of Commerce
AROUND ALHAMBRA is not responsible nor liable for any claims or offerings, 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.
CITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA
12/2015
Alhambra Police Officer saves
a life with help from community
On Oct. 10, Alhambra
Police Officers responded
to a disturbance call on
South Hitchcock Drive,
where they located a man
who was bleeding profusely
from a severed artery on
his right forearm. The man
was being held down by
several residents who were
struggling with the man as
he attempted to get up and
flee. Officers acted quickly
and immediately called
for paramedics. Before
paramedics arrived, a police
officer applied a Combat
Application
Tourniquet
(C.A.T.) on the man’s upper
arm and stopped the bleeding. The procedure is being
credited to saving the man’s
life. He had already lost
several liters of blood.
While the subject was
being treated, he acted
strangely and told the officers to shoot him. Officers
learned that the subject
punched a plate glass window at the location after
breaking into the home,
To
Advertise
in
Around
Alhambra
call
626282-8481
which caused the injury. It
was later determined that
the subject was suffering
from a mental illness. He
was transported to Garfield
Medical Center for treatment and examination by
doctors.
Alhambra Police Department Officers received
tactical medicine training
in August that was hosted
by Huntington Memorial
Hospital and South Pasadena Police Department.
Officers
were
issued
individual first aid kits and
taught proper application
of tourniquets, gauze
treated with hemostatic
agents, and other life-saving
interventions. This training,
which occurred less than
two months prior to this
life-saving call, proved vital
in this incident.
This enhanced first aid
equipment, such as the
tourniquet, had recently
been purchased through the
non-profit Alhambra Police
Foundation, whose specific
Alhambra Police Department Officers received tactical
medicine training in August and were issued individual
first aid kits and taught proper application of tourniquets,
gauze treated with hemostatic agents, and other life-saving
interventions.
purpose is to raise funds to
support and enhance innovative programs, projects,
activities, training, and
equipment for the Alhambra Police Department that
improve public safety and
services to the community.
For more information
on how to help support
Alhambra Police Officers
and the Alhambra Police
Foundation, visit www.
alhambrapolicefoundation.
org or see the insert in this
addition of the Around
Alhambra.
12/2015
Case Management
project looking for
senior service providers
Work with seniors and make extra
money.
The City of Alhambra Case Management Program, which provides assistance
to 60+ year-old seniors to help them live
independently and safely in their homes
for as long as possible, is offering an excellent opportunity to be of service to a senior
in Alhambra.
Services are needed in the following
areas:
caregivers, transportation, handyman,
gardening, companionship, errands, and
more.
Approved caregivers are added to a
registry list, and names are provided to
senior clients after being matched by a case
worker.
All service providers must complete an
application and have a Livescan with the
City of Alhambra Police Department.
For more information, or to obtain an
application form, please contact the Case
Management Office at 626-570-3220.
5A
6A
Library, Parks & Recreation programs instruct, entertain
Alhambra’s Civic Center Library, 101
S. First St., and the Parks & Recreation
Department offer programs and services
that instruct, entertain, and enhance lives.
LIBRARY
A tutorial on the Library’s e-magazines,
available for free through the library Web
site at www.alhambralibrary.org, will be
offered at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, in
Reese Hall. Learn about the easy-to-use
e-magazines and become eligible to win a
holiday prize basket.
In December, the Library will provide Family Story Time at 7 p.m. each
Wednesday in the Story Time Room for
families with children ages 3 to 12.
The library recently initiated Early Literacy Story Time for children ages 0 to 2,
offered in six-week sessions. A new session
is offered Jan. 12 through Feb. 18 and will
be conducted as follows:
Baby Story Time 0 to 12 months on
Thursdays at 10:15 a.m.
Toddler Story Time 1 to 2 years on
Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m.
A second Toddler Story Time 1 to 2
years on Tuesdays at 11:15 a.m.
Attendance at Early Literacy Story
Time is open only to those youngsters
whose parents have a valid Alhambra Civic
Center Library card. Sign up in person in
the Children’s Room. Priority is given to
Alhambra residents, who may register for
the Winter Session Saturday and Sunday,
Jan. 9 and 10, after which spaces are
available to all, including non-Alhambra
residents. Each session will be filled on a
first-come, first-served basis until all spaces
have been filled.
In celebration of the season, at 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 8, the library is presenting
its Annual Holiday Open House in Reese
Hall, where attendees will enjoy games;
prizes; holiday treats; a winsome movie,
The Santa Clause; refreshments; and a
surprise or two. This event is for the whole
family, all ages welcome, just as long as the
holiday spirit is shining through the eyes of
each family member.
A holiday wreath-making craft is
organized for 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, in
Reese Hall. Supplies are free, but space
is limited. Registration is required at the
second-floor Reference Desk, or phone
626-570-3212, extension 1.
The Teen Advisory Board will meet
at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 9, in the
second-floor Conference Room.
Teens will enjoy the PG-13 movie
Christmas Vacation at 3 p.m. Thursday,
Dec. 10, in Reese Hall, after which they’ll
create DIY melted crayon ornaments.
The First Annual Cookie Swap is
scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec.
12. Participants will bake six-dozen cookies
and swap with other participants. Sign up
is required.
The Scrapbooking, Knitting, and
Crocheting Club will host a Create a
Handmade Holiday Gift session at 2
p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, in Reese Hall. No
registration is required, but please bring
own supplies.
For families with children ages 3 to 12,
a children’s program will take place at 3
p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19, in Reese Hall. The
John Abrams Animal Magic Holiday
Spectacular will feature magic, comedy,
and live exotic animals all in one fabulous
holiday show. Registration is not required,
but please note that space is limited. For
more information, contact the Children’s
Room at 626-570-3215, or visit www.
alhambralibrary.org/kids/kids.html.
The Homework Help program continues during the month of December, except
the last two weeks, and in 2016 through
Wednesday, April 27. It provides children
ages 5 to 12 with assistance on their homework assignments. High school volunteers
provide help, on a first-come, first served
basis, on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. Please note that children 12 years of
age and younger must be accompanied in
the library at all times by an adult.
PARKS & RECREATION
December is the time for participants
to register for their favorite Leisure Classes
that will be offered in the Winter Session
in Parks & Recreation facilities, and
otherwise, throughout the community,
beginning on Monday, Jan. 4.
The classes, organized for all age
categories, are in several major categories:
Parent-Child Classes, Enrichment Classes,
Music Classes, Dance Classes, Health
& Fitness Classes, Yoga Classes, and
Tennis Classes. Registration for Alhambra
residents began on Nov. 30 and is extended to Monday, Dec. 7, at which time
non-Alhambra residents may begin class
registration.
It is important to register early, not only
to gain the Alhambra resident priority, but
also to ensure that classes receive sufficient
registration to ensure against cancellation
due to low registration.
A complete listing of available Leisure
Classes and Family Excursions is included
in the winter/spring 2016 Leisure Classes,
Activities & Excursions Guide, recently delivered to residents’ mail boxes, and always
available at the City of Alhambra Website
at www.cityofalhambra.org.
101 S. First St.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-570-5008
www.alhambralibrary.org
Monday:
Tuesday:
Wednesday:
Thursday:
Friday:
Saturday:
Sunday:
11 am - 9 pm
10 am - 9 pm
10 am - 9 pm
10 am - 5 pm
10 am - 5 pm
10 am - 5 pm
1 pm - 5 pm
12/2015
7A
The Condor Squad pays tribute to veterans of all wars by Boy Scout presents City of Alhambra Certificate of Recognition The Alhambra Police Department Color Guard posts the
flying over the ceremony.
to World War II vet Charlie De Leon, U.S. Army, 1942-1946. colors.
City Veterans Day celebration
honors World War II vets
While the annual City of Alhambra Veterans Day
celebration in Alhambra Park honors all veterans, with
praise for those who have served the Nation, Veterans Day
2015 paid tribute to veterans of World War II on the 70th
anniversary year of the end of that historic conflict.
The overwhelming turnout of celebrants frequently
broke into applause when reference was made concerning the veterans’ service during one of the more horrific
conflicts of history. While plaudits were heaped on those
World War II veterans still here, thoughts also naturally
focused on those who did not return from war.
Vice Mayor Barbara Messina said the World War II
veterans demonstrated the ultimate in heroism through
courage, determination, and selflessness in the service of
their nation and the world. During her remarks, there were
several flyovers of vintage planes by the Condor Squadron,
paying tribute to the veterans of all wars.
Alhambra World War II veteran honorees were each
called by name, and in a special honor from the Alhambra
City Council, on behalf of all Alhambrans, the vets were
presented Certificates of Recognition for their service.
The certificates were presented to them, together with a
military salute, by members of the Boy Scouts of America.
Music was provided by the Alhambra High School
Mighty Moors Marching Band, under the direction of
Mark Truison.
The memorial wreaths were placed by members of Boy
Scout Troop 201, Cub Scout Troop 375, and Girl Scout
Troop 3111.
The Alhambra Police Department Color Guard carried
out the Posting of the Colors, under the direction of
American Legion Post 139 Commander Michael Berru.
The “Beverly Belles,” an Andrews Sisters-inspired singing trio, complete in ‘40s dress and hair styles, sang the
National Anthem.
The Lowering of the Colors to half staff was accompanied by the playing of Taps by a member of the Marching
Band.
The celebration ended with an extended performance
by the Beverly Belles, a served luncheon for all in attendance, and an invitation to a reception at the American
Legion Post 139.
Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts offer a joint salute to
veterans.
The Beverly Belles sing the National Anthem and entertain
the crowd.
ROSE PARADE FLOAT From Page 1A
The City’s first El Nino workshop was offered on Nov. 18. From left: Tim Crothers,
area manager, West Coast Arborists, Inc.; Rafael Perez, Code Enforcement supervisor;
Captain Elliot Kase, Alhambra Police Department; Chief Bill Walker, Alhambra Fire
Department; and Mayor Luis Ayala.
City offers first
El Niño Workshop
The City of Alhambra hosted its first
El Niño workshop on Nov. 18.
The taped event can be seen on the
City’s Web site at www.cityofalhambra.org.
Fliers, including El Niño Planning
Guide, Get Prepared Now for El Niño,
and Police Messaging Services for Resi-
dents, are also available on the Web site.
If there are questions after viewing
the workshop, please phone Public
Works, 626-570-5067; Public Utilities,
626-570-5061; Fire, non-emergency,
626 570-5124; or Police, non-emergency, 626-570-5151.
find beauty in the landscape that builds
the backdrop of people’s lives. Not only
do parks serve as recreation outlets at the
local level and foster social interactions,
they also provide for the development of
a sense of community.
Playing on that theme, the City of Alhambra will pay homage to its city parks,
using the California Parks and Recreation
Society motto of “Parks Make Life Better!”
with a beautiful new float in 2016 that will
incorporate some of Alhambra’s most significant park attributes. Phoenix Decorating
Company has once again come up with a
stunning design to play up the splendor
found at each of the City’s parks, while the
California Parks and Recreation Society has
graciously agreed to let the City of Alhambra use its motto to advance the message
that Parks and Recreation are essential community services that contribute to a better
quality of life, increased health benefits, and
even environmental and economic benefits.
Central to the float design is the City’s
iconic Gateway Monument arch, normally
viewed in the Gateway Plaza Park at Fremont and Valley. It will be prominently
featured at the front of the float along with
an American flag that alludes not only to
the Veterans Memorial at Alhambra Park,
but also the City’s strong connection to the
nation’s service men and women. Alhambra’s Tournament of Rose float in 2015 paid
homage to the Go For Broke Veterans of
WWII to help kick off the 70th Anniversary
of the end of World War II.
The play equipment in the center of the
new float design features a tower and slide
designed to help children develop balance,
coordination, and body strength. It resembles similar equipment to that located at
Alhambra, Almansor, Granada, and Story
Park playgrounds, but this equipment will
be constructed out of flower petals, leaves,
and other organic materials. Closely situated
to the playground equipment, park benches,
which are integral to any park setting, serve
as a place for families and friends to meet
during their leisure time to enjoy the wondrous joys and benefits that parks provide.
The park-themed float would not be
complete without a depiction of the City’s
unique 18-hole Alhambra Golf Course,
which will feature a golfer standing next to
a cup flag. A soccer net at the rear of the
float represents the variety of sports played
at Alhambra’s parks, such as AYSO soccer, a
very popular pastime for Alhambra families.
Trees will also be a prominent feature
of the float since they represent the urban
forest that endows Alhambra’s parks and
creates a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing
environment.
And last, but not least, the be-all and
end-all of Alhambra’s parks: the people
who visit and access them, as well as the
city employees who are responsible for
keeping the parks in tip-top condition.
Float riders will consist of men and women
who operate the recreation and leisure
activities at the parks.
“Be sure to tune in on New Year’s Day
to see the float come to life,” said Paolo
Kespradit, Alhambra management assistant.
8A
12/2015
Air quality improves with construction
of tunnel in Draft SR-710 North Study
In last month’s issue, it was reported on how the construction
of a tunnel will improve transportation efficiency according to
Patrick Gibson, P.E., of Gibson
Transportation Consulting, Inc.,
a traffic engineering consultant
who was contracted to make
an extensive review of Metro’s
33,000-page Draft SR-710
North Environmental Impact
Report and Environmental Impact Statement (DEIR/EIS).
This month, highlighted
will be a complementary report
by Dr. Julia Lester, principal of
Ramboll Environ (Environment
& Health Group), who has a
Ph.D. in chemical engineering
and has 25 years of air quality
experience. Both experts emphasized that all data and references
in their respective reports were
taken exclusively and objectively
from information presented in
the DEIR/EIS documents and
were not synthesized or based on
speculation.
Following is information
presented by Dr. Lester about
the effects of air quality with
construction of a tunnel, but
first a reiteration about some of
the basics of the draft document:
What are the study area
boundaries? (1) I-210 to the
north; (2) I-10/SR-60 to the
south; (3) I-5 to the west; and
(4) I-605 to the east.
What is the purpose of the
study? The study was designed to
determine if there is one alternative that stands out with respect
to improving regional transportation efficiency and air quality
as it pertains to completing the
SR-710 Gap. These include (1)
a No Build Alternative serving as
a baseline for comparison along
with four Build Alternatives:
(2) TSM/TDM (Transportation
System Management/Transportation Demand Management);
(3) BRT (Bus Rapid Transit); (4)
LRT (Light Rail Transit); and (5)
Tunnel (Dual Bore Tunnel with
paid tolls).
What is the desired goal to
be achieved? (1) reduce congestion; (2) improve regional transit
ridership; (3) improve study area
transit ridership; (4) reduce local
arterial congestion; (5) increase
north-south mobility; and (6)
provide for travel time savings.
Each of the alternatives was studied in terms of how they would
perform against these goals.
What findings were gleaned
from the study? Dr. Lester agreed
with Mr. Gibson that the tunnel
alternative outperforms all of the
other alternatives in the study
against these goal markers.
What were the key highlights in terms of air quality?
• Reduce air emissions on
local streets? Better air quality?
Yes, only the freeway tunnel
further reduces local street emissions by reducing vehicle miles
and hours traveled: Alhambra
(-14%); South Pasadena (-12%);
Pasadena (-9%); and San Gabriel
(-7%), and improving mobility
(meaning less hours traveled).
This signifies less emissions (better air quality) where people live,
work, and go to school.
• Reduce air emissions from
trucks? Better air quality? Yes,
only the freeway tunnel reduces
truck emissions — in particular,
diesel particulate matter (the
worst and most toxic of all
emissions). In fact, 80% of the
risk received from air pollution
comes from diesel emissions.
In Alhambra, local street truck
emissions would be reduced by
17%. At 10 to 15 mph, traffic
emissions are three times higher
than at 25-30 miles per hour.
• Reduced air emissions inside the tunnel itself? Better air
quality? Yes, the tunnel provides
a series of exhaust scrubbers as a
way to gather and clean all types
of emissions from both cars and
trucks, including road dust,
brake and tire wear, and tailpipe
emissions. Particulate matter will
be reduced by more than 80%,
a conservative but astounding
estimate. In fact, Dr. Lester
indicated that the study could
easily have made a case for 95%
or better.
• Reduced air emissions
on open air freeways? Better
air quality? Yes, the tunnel will
help open air freeways to be less
congested providing for better
mobility with less emissions.
• Reduce health risks?
Better air quality? Yes, with a
reduction in emissions the tunnel is the only alternative that
addresses a reduction in cancer
risk per million (10 to 50 in a
million), which is lower than the
No-Build alternative. The health
risk will be reduced in the future
for all alternatives, but tunnel
reductions will be from 15 to
350 in a million.
To view the complete footage
of the presentation provided by
these key experts, refer to the
City’s Web site streaming file
for Sept. 28, 2015, available at
www.cityofalhambra.org on the
710 North Study Update page.
A decision about the preferred
alternative, to be made by Cal
Trans and Metro, will take place
in approximately 1 1/2 years.
Look for more reports from
qualified experts in future issues.
12/2015
Atherton Baptist Homes hosted a Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 10 honoring the veterans
and widows of veterans who served in World War II, as 2015 marks the 70th anniversary of
the end of World War II. On the right is Councilmember Gary Yamauchi, who presided over
the ceremony. Seated next to Mr. Yamauchi is Lt. Col. and Chaplain Robert Maase, who
organized the event. World War II widows who live at Atherton received recognition.
Veterans Day arrives early
at Atherton Baptist Homes
Veterans Day arrived early at Atherton
Baptist Homes on Nov. 10 as a special ceremony honored the veterans and widows
of veterans who served in World War II in
recognition of the 70th anniversary of the
end of World War II this year.
Many of the senior citizens who reside at
Atherton Baptist Homes would have been
unable to make the trip to the Veterans Day
Ceremony that took place at Alhambra
Park the following day. Councilman Gary
Yamauchi presided over the ceremony.
The event was organized by Lt. Col. and
Chaplain Robert L. Maase, who served in
World War II and Korea for a total of 21
years and now resides at Atherton Baptist
Homes. Chaplain Maase ensured that the
24 living veterans of World War II and the
23 widows of World War II veterans who
live at Atherton Baptist Homes were present at the ceremony, where they received
recognition from Councilman Yamauchi
and certificates commemorating their
service to the Nation.
9A
10A
Help shape future of Alhambra by
attending General Plan Community
Workshop No. 2: Visioning the Future
The Alhambra General Plan
Update effort is well underway. More
than 70 community members attended the City’s first General Plan Workshop on May 20, where the overall
general plan update process was
described and community members
were given the opportunity to provide
initial insights on the future vision of
Alhambra. Since then, further community input has been gathered by
phone, online, and through written
surveys. A total of 760 surveys were
submitted and will be used to ensure
the creation of a General Plan that
reflects community values, priorities,
and concerns.
Please attend Community Workshop No. 2, where the City will present the results of its visioning process
for the future of Alhambra, including
land use alternatives and potential
urban design concepts.
The workshop will be from 7 p.m.
to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, at the
Civic Center Library, 101 S. First St.
The meeting will include interactive
activities introducing ideas related to
the following topics:
• Neighborhoods and Residential
Development.
• Economic Development.
•Mobility.
• Community Design.
The workshop is an opportunity
for residents and community members to provide input on the variety
of ideas and concepts created for the
General Plan.
For more information, please visit
http://cityofalhambra.org/page/544/
general_plan_update, or contact the
Alhambra Development Services
Department at 626-570-5034 or
[email protected].
Remember these holiday recycling tips
Holiday trees will be picked
up at curbside for recycling
for three weeks beginning
Dec. 26. As an environmental
bonus, the trees will be turned
into compost, mulch, or
ground cover.
Trees will be picked up
on regular collection day, but
must have had all ornaments,
decorations, lights, tinsel and
garlands, and the tree-stand
removed. Please do not place
the tree at curbside before
noon on the day preceding the
regularly scheduled collection.
Other holiday recycling
suggestions:
• Place bows and ribbons
in the green-colored trash
container.
•Place gift boxes in the
blue recyclable container.
• Place live wreaths in the
back yard waste container.
Happy holidays.
Recycling event diverts
more than 10,000 pounds
of e-waste from landfills
Approximately 10,045 pounds of
e-waste, 5,421 pounds of paper, and 1,790
pounds of clothing and items in good working condition were turned in at the City of
Alhambra and Republic Services’ e-waste
recycling event in Granada Park on Oct. 24.
Information about future e-waste
recycling events will be posted on the city
Web site at www.cityofalhambra.org and in
Around Alhambra. In the meantime, please
do not place e-waste in trash bins. Contact Republic Services at 888-742-5234
before placing items at the curb (no more
than four items at a time) for Wednesday
pickup. Do not place the items at the curb
before noon on Tuesday.
To Advertise in Around Alhambra
call 626-282-8481
12/2015
AROUND ALHAMBRA
11A
12A
12/2015
Blaze Pizza makes pizzas with quality freshly made dough, The Habit Burger Grill has been changing the eating habits of Burlington is a leading off-price apparel and home product
crisp crust, and healthful and artisanal ingredients.
many Alhambrans since its opening.
retailer offering a large assortment of current, high-quality
designer and name-brand merchandise at up to 65% off
department store prices.
Alhambra Place continues to grow
Visit Alhambra Place, decorated with
stunning graphics, beautifully tiled benches, living room style easy chairs, and more,
to see what is open.
Blaze Pizza is the fastest growing pizza
parlor in America, for which there are many
reasons, including exceptional quality
freshly made dough, crisp crust, healthful
and artisanal ingredients, and fast-fired
cooking in just 180 seconds.
Customers can build their own pizzas
by choosing the sauces, meats, veggies, and
finishes. Blaze also offers several signature
pizzas. A selection of salads and drinks are
available to complement the pizza. For
dessert there is S’more Pie.
Local groups are encouraged to have
their fundraisers at Blaze. With every
purchase made, 20% is donated back to
the organization. Details are available at
blazepizza.com/fundraising.
Blaze Pizza is open from 11 a.m. to 10
p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from
11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday.
Just next door to Blaze Pizza is a
restaurant that has been changing the
eating habits of many Alhambrans since its
opening —The Habit Burger Grill.
Since its creation and opening in Santa
Barbara in the last millennium, The Habit
has been providing quality burgers —
cooked to order — to burger lovers in
restaurants throughout the country. Consumer Reports recently named The Habit
Burger Grill as Taste Champs for Burgers.
The most popular order is the original
Charburger, at a great price. Also featured
are the Teriyaki Char, BBQ Bacon Char,
Mushroom Char and, in deference to
its city of origin, the Santa Barbara Style
double Char with cheese and avocado on
grilled sourdough.
Customers can choose from tasty sides;
grilled sandwiches, including chicken;
tri-tip steak; Albacore tuna; a great veggie
burger; and even a fresh, hand-cut, madeto-order salad, topped with the customer’s
choice of dressing.
The Habit also caters to kids and
dessert-lovers with menu choices for those
under 10 years of age and a selection of
homemade frozen treats.
There is even a “Habit CharClub,”
where members stay connected to “all
things Habit,” learning, before others, of
new menu items and limited-time offerings, getting invited to grand openings
and special events, and access to “members
only” Habit merchandise. Sign up at habitburger.com/charclub.
Alhambra’s Habit Burger Grill is open
from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday
through Thursday and from 10:30 a.m. to
11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Burlington, a leading off-price apparel
and home product retailer offering a large
assortment of current, high-quality designer and name-brand merchandise at up to
65% off department store prices every day,
has opened in Alhambra Place.
Shoppers love the depth and breadth
of the items available, including coats for
the entire family; ladies’ dresses and suits;
ladies’ career and casual collections and
separates; lingerie; handbags and other
fashion accessories; men’s clothing and
furnishings; men’s sportswear and active
wear; children’s clothing, newborn to preteen; shoes for men, women, and children;
everything for baby; and linens and home
décor.
Burlington’s Web site — burlingtonstores.com — lists additional departments,
such as baby accessories at Baby Depot,
baby furniture at Baby Depot, family
swimwear, home textiles, housewares and
small electrical appliances, ladies plus sizes,
maternity, mens and young mens, mens
big & tall sportswear, petite sportswear,
and even pet-related items.
Help Burlington assist in saving the
lives of kids with blood cancers by donating $1 or more to help fund the Leukemia
& Lymphoma Society’s research of cancer.
Burlington is open from 9:30 a.m. to
10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and
from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday.
Corporal Arthur Fernandez
retires from Police Department
The City of Alhambra announced the
retirement of Corporal Arthur Fernandez
from the Alhambra Police Department this
month.
Corporal Fernandez was hired as a Police Recruit July 15, 1985, and graduated
from the Rio Hondo Police Academy in
November 1985. During Corporal Fernandez’s tenure with the department, his
assignments included Patrol, SEU detective
– narcotics, and LA IMPACT Task Force.
Also during his tenure, he became a Field
Training Officer beginning in 1990 and is
currently assigned as an FTO in Patrol.
Corporal Fernandez is a valued member
of the Alhambra Police Department and
has made countless contributions for the
betterment of the organization and the
City of Alhambra.
The City of Alhambra honored Corporal Fernandez for his years of service and
extended good wishes for a wonderful
retirement.
Overnight parking
restrictions relaxed
during holidays
In recognition of the holiday season, the Alhambra Police Department
announced the easing of the enforcement of overnight parking restrictions,
which limit parking on City streets between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., starting
on Saturday, Dec. 19 and continuing until 2 a.m. Monday, Jan. 4,
at which time full enforcement will resume.
12/2015
The Lopez residence won Best Lawn Display last year.
Enter City’s Home Holiday
Decorating Contest
The deadline to submit an entry in the
City of Alhambra’s third annual Holiday
Home Decorating Contest is Friday, Dec.
11. This annual contest showcases residents’
spirit and joy of the season by their creative
decorating with lights and animated and
colorful creatures.
Winners for Best Lawn Display, Best
Use of Lights, Best Animation Display, and
Most Creative Display will receive a lawn
sign in recognition for their efforts, their
name featured in a future issue of Around
Alhambra, and a commendation from the
Alhambra City Council.
Residents may pick up an entry form
at the Community Services Department,
Alhambra City Hall, 111 S. First St.
Judging will take place during the week
of Dec.14. Winners will be announced on
Monday, Dec. 21.
The following crimes were reported to the Alhambra Police Department during
October. The areas of occurrence are listed to the nearest block — not exact addresses.
By publishing these reports, it is hoped that Alhambra residents will take the necessary
measures to ensure their individual safety, as well as the safety of their property.
Neighborhood Watch Works! To join Neighborhood Watch, or for more crime
prevention information and safety tips, contact the Alhambra Police Department
Crime Prevention Office at 626-570-5177.
District One
Burglary (4)
100 N. Vega
400 E. Bay State
100 E. Commonwealth
100 S. Cordova
Theft/Burglary
from Vehicle (20)
700 N. Monterey
300 W. Grand
00 E. Commonwealth
700 N. Monterey
300 N. Stoneman
100 N. Fourth
600 N. Stoneman
900 N. Monterey (x2)
400 N. Chapel
300 S. Chapel
100 N. Fifth
100 N. Second
900 N. Garfield
1200 N. Stoneman
200 E. Beacon
800 N. Stoneman
1200 N. Stoneman
100 E. Huntington
Grand Theft Auto (5)
Atlantic/Spruce
700 W. Main
Chapel/Bay State
1100 N. Stoneman
200 W. Alhambra
Robbery (2)
Third/Grand
Atlantic/Main
District Two
Burglary (6)
600 S. Almansor
1600 S. Ninth
800 S. Second
1800 S. Second
800 S. Sixth
1600 S. Third
Theft/Burglary
from Vehicle (26)
700 W. Ramona Rd.
300 W. Ramona Rd.
1700 S. Sixth
1800 S. Third
1000 S. Eighth
1600 S. Ninth (x2)
300 E. Glendon
1400 S. Ninth
00 W. Valley
1600 S. Almansor
1100 S. Fourth (x2)
1200 S. Monterey
1000 S. Sierra Vista
1800 S. Chapel
1100 S. Second
700 S. Almansor
1000 S. Valencia (x2)
1000 S. Granada
1200 S. Fifth
1000 S. Garfield
1800 S. Almansor
300 E. Ramona
1400 S. Stoneman
400 W. Linda Vista
200 E. Ramona
Third/Shorb
600 S. Sierra Vista
1800 S. Stoneman
800 S. Fourth
Robbery (2)
900 E. Valley Blvd.
Atlantic/Norwood
District Three
Burglary (7)
3100 W. Poplar
500 N. Electric
100 N. Raymond
1100 S. Winthrop
500 N. Marguerita
1000 S. Westmont
100 S. Palatine
Theft/Burglary
from Vehicle (21)
300 N. Atlantic
1800 W. Vine
1500 W. Maple
2100 W. Vine
300 N. Primrose
00 S. Curtis
500 S. Winthrop
100 S. Westmont
600 S. LaPaloma
500 N. Campbell
900 S. Fremont
1700 W. Vine
1700 W. Cedar
00 S. Marguerita
00 S. Fremont
500 S. Winthrop
400 S. Winthrop
1000 S. Westmont
900 S. Westmont (x2)
700 S. Winthrop
Fremont/Mission
3000 W. Main
200 N. Marengo
1000 S. Meridian
1200 S.Fremont
2300 W. Poplar
900 N. Electric
1200 W. Main
2500 W. Grand
Robbery (0)
District Four
Burglary (4)
1200 S. Marengo
2200 W. Winthrop
1200 W. Ramona
3200 W. Montezuma
Theft Burglary
from Vehicle (7)
2203 W. Ramona
1200 S. Benito
1800 W. Garvey (x2)
Fremont/LaPaloma
1000 S. Edith
2500 W. Valley
Marguerita/Valley
1600 S. Elm
1500 S. Olive
1400 W. Shorb
1600 W. Valley
El Paseo/Las Flores
1200 S. Raymond
1600 S. Primrose
Robbery (2)
2100 S. Fremont
1200 W. Valley Blvd.
13A
14A
CHAMBER NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA12/2015
Scary small business
regulation changes in
Washington, D.C.
BY OWEN GUENTHARD, DIRECTOR OF
LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS
In the spirit of Halloween just past, our
representatives in Washington, D.C., have
brewed up some frightening new rules
and regulations for business. In an article
by J.D. Harrison, senior editor for Digital
Content at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the author cautioned that some of
the proposed regulations in the pipeline at
the nation’s capital will give small employers
especially and business owners in general
concerns and increase their costs of doing
business.
The Department of Labor has proposed
a one-size-fits-all overtime exemption rule
that could more than double the salary
threshold under which employees qualify
for overtime pay, which would decrease the
number of workers who are exempt from
overtime wages and drive up the labor costs
for employers. The chairman of the House
Small Business Committee’s subpanel on
oversight, investigation and regulations,
Rep. Crescent Hardy (R-Nev) agreed that
it would have a chilling effect on the economy and increased costs for small businesses
as well as reduced flexibility for American
workers.
In addition to these proposals, the
Department of Labor is considering a new
retirement rule, sometimes called the “fiduciary rule,” that if implemented as is would
restrict the advice that financial experts are
allowed to share with small business owners
and their employees. This could ultimately
increase the costs for small businesses to
a point where employers could be forced
to substantially reduce their retirement
packages or drop their retirement plans
altogether. The negative impact would be
greatest on the employee groups in most
need of access to professional financial
investment advice.
To Advertise in Around Alhambra
call 626-282-8481
Blaze Pizza, 100 E. Main St. #160, hosted the Chamber’s free monthly Coffee
Talk on Nov. 12. From left are Chamber Ambassador President Nickie Chan,
Ambassadors Eddie Garcia and Mary Ann Torres, Blaze Pizza owner Reza
Medali, Ambassadors Frances Lo and Sam Yue, Blaze Pizza Manager Connor
Dahlbird, and Ambassadors Kay Lee Fukui, Phoebe Lew, and Jewelyn Co.
About 35 people attended.
The Coffee Talk events are a good way for members of the business community
to increase their visibility to the wider community and promote their businesses.
The Coffee Talks are offered from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. the second Thursday
of each month. The December event will take place Dec. 10 at Cokreeate, 410
W. Main St., Unit 221, Alhambra.
12/2015
CHAMBER NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA
15A
The Alhambra Chamber of Commerce
thanks these members for renewing their memberships
and for their continued support:
Alhambra Camera
121 E. Main St.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-282-6365
Member since 1970
Howard’s Appliances, Inc.
2121 W. Main St.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-943-9413
Member since 2011
Mission Super Hardware
501 W. Valley Blvd.
San Gabriel, CA 91776
626-284-7021
Member since 2007
Alhambra Family Medical Center
1336 W. Valley Blvd., Suite A
Alhambra, CA 91803
626-281-2232
Member since 2013
J.J. Jumpers Joshua
Jumpers LLC
2826 W. Valley Blvd.
Alhambra, CA 91803
626-274-2003
Member since 2010
Rotary Club of San
Gabriel ValleyNew Generation
Alhambra, CA 91801
201-NEWGEN-1
Member since 2012
Jayvee Dance Performing
Arts Center
216 E. Main St.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-281-5858
Member since 2008
The Fit Factor
38 W. Main St.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-310-7454
Member since 2012
Alhambra Police Foundation
2801 W. Mission Road
Alhambra, CA 91803
626-407-0559
Member since 2014
The star of SeaWorld, Shamu, amazes crowds in the One Ocean killer whale show and can be
seen in a whole different light at Shamu’s Underwater Viewing.
On the way to …
The star of SeaWorld, Shamu, amazes
crowds in the One Ocean killer whale
show and can be seen in a whole different
light at Shamu’s Underwater Viewing. In
SeaWorld’s new island-inspired Dolphin
Days show, guests are immersed in the
world of dolphins and pilot whales. For
the thrill seekers, SeaWorld has Journey
to Atlantis, Shipwreck Rapids, and of
course Manta, SeaWorld’s double-launch,
multi-media roller coaster.
For a relaxing, serene experience, there’s
Turtle Reef, where guests can see dozens of
sea turtles swimming in their 280,000-gallon habitat. And for laughter and silly fun,
California sea lions Clyde and Seamore
show off with their trainers in Sea Lions
LIVE show.
For more information on trips and tours
to SeaWorld, please contact My Beyond
Travel Agency, where we help you book
your dream vacation.
My Beyond Travel Agency
Telephone: 626-671-1088
E-mail: [email protected]
Cali Mart
1000 E. Valley Blvd.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-284-8819
Member since 2010
Credit Union of
Southern California
900 S. Fremont Ave.
Alhambra, CA 91801
866-287-6225
Member since 2009
Exact Tax
1013 E. Garvey Ave.
Monterey Park, CA 91755
626-573-0788
Member since 2014
Main St. Jewelry & Watches
210 W. Main St.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-940-5400
Member since 2014
Mandarin Baptist Church
of Los Angeles
110 W. Woodward Ave.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-282-2467
Member since 2007
Tomomi Sushi
17 W. Main St.
Alhambra, CA 91801
626-458-0338
Member since 2013
Transtech Engineers, Inc.
13367 Benson Ave.
Chino, CA 91710
909-595-8599
Member since 1997
Wells Fargo Bank Corporate
333 S. Grand Ave., 11th Floor
ManRealty.com
Los Angeles, CA 90071
119 S. Atlantic Blvd., Suite #303
213-253-3279
Monterey Park, CA 91754
Member since 2010
626-872-0608
Member since 2013
To renew your membership with a credit card,
please phone the Chamber at 626-282-8481.
It’s all about networking
Join the Chamber for an informal social where business people get together,
exchange ideas, and develop new relationships. These monthly networking
programs are sponsored by and hosted at Chamber member establishments.
Networking is one of the most affordable means of marketing resulting in invaluable
personal referrals and word-of-mouth advertising.
So, don’t hesitate. Bring plenty of business cards and a winning handshake to the
next Business After Hours and develop a synergistic group of business contacts.
This month’s Business After Hours mixer
will take place
Wednesday, Dec. 16
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Rosemont Pavilion
700 Seco St., Pasadena 91103
Dunn-Edwards, 1435 W. Valley Blvd., Alhambra, had a ribbon cutting
ceremony Nov. 10. Firmly rooted in the United States since 1925, DunnEdwards Paints ® began a small, family-owned business that — through hard
work and commitment to quality — has grown to become one of the country’s
largest independent manufacturers and distributors of paints and painting
supplies. From left are Marcelo Bugarin, district sales manager; former
Alhambra Chamber President Frank Chen; Chamber Ambassador President
Nicki Chan; Karl Altergott, CEO / president; Tim Bosveld, VP Marketing;
Nick Hess, SVP Operations; Monte Lewis, VP Sales; and Robert Capetillo,
district sales manager.
ROSE QUEEN From Page 1A
will be listed in the program as sponsors.
One Queen Sponsor table is available
for $1,000. The Rose Queen will be
this sponsor’s table guest. This includes
escorting the queen at the beginning of
the program and a group photo with the
Royal Court.
Six Princess Sponsor tables are available for $750 each. A princess will be
the table guest. This includes escorting a
princess at the beginning of the program
and a group photo with the Royal Court.
Table sponsors, for tables of 10, are
available for $500 each. This includes a
group photo with the Royal Court.
Photo opportunities with the queen
and princesses will be available.
Proceeds from the luncheon will
promote Alhambra’s 2016 Rose Parade
float, “Parks Make Life Better.” This will
be Alhambra’s 88th float entry.
For reservations, contact the Alhambra Chamber, 626-282-8481.
Make checks payable to the Alhambra Chamber of Commerce and mail
or deliver to 104 S. First St., Alhambra
91801.
$10 for members, $15 for non-members or
free admittance with an unwrapped toy or
gift card for the Spark of Love toy drive.
See Alhambra’s 88th Rose Parade float, “Parks Make Life Better,” that
promotes the incredible benefits of parks and recreation in Alhambra. The
six City of Alhambra parks are recognized for their excellence: Alhambra
Park, Almansor Park, Granada Park, Story Park, Emery Park, and Burke
Heritage Park.
For more information about the Business After Hours Mixers,
phone the Chamber at 626-282-8481.
16A
12/2015
New Member Breakfast
Evike Chang, of Evike.com, spoke about the secrets of
his success at the Chamber’s Secrets for Your Success
program on Nov. 19.
The Alhambra Chamber of Commerce offered a New Member Breakfast to
new Chamber members on Nov. 17 at the Chamber. The breakfasts take place
several times a year and give the new members an overview of the Chamber
and its benefits and activities. All new members have a turn at introducing
themselves and describing their businesses. From left: Chamber President
Robert Fukui; Hernan Escobar, Rosano Partners; Angela Bell, Burlington
Stores; Jaime Toledo, TJ’s Financial & Income Tax; Henry Bojorquez Jr.,
Henry’s Towing & Recovering Inc.; Guy Cacciarelli, National Cinemedia;
Cecelia Chen, Covington Capital Management; Muthia Nachialppan, A1
Live Scan & Notary Services; and Oscar Felix, Choix Tours & Travel.
OUR
WELCOME
CHAMBER MEMBERS!
New
Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center
1000 S. Fremont Ave., Unit 23
Alhambra, CA 91803
626-299-4700
elarc.org
The Eastern Los Angeles Regional Center
(ELARC) is a private, non-profit organization
under contract with the California Department
of Developmental Services (DDS), which
coordinates and provides community based
services to people with developmental
disabilities in the state of California. It is
one of 21 Regional Centers in the state.
National Cinemedia (NCM)
1026 Brookview Ave.
Westlake Village, CA 91361
805-379-0663
ncm.com
NCM is America’s largest cinema
advertising network.
Pacific Reproductive
3309 Warwick Road
Alhambra, CA 91803
323-528-6131
socaliveconsultants.com
Medical Services
Rosano Partners
700 S. Flower St., Suite 1500
Los Angeles, CA 90017
213-802-0324
rosanopartners.com
Rosano Partners is a full-service brokerage
specializing in retail real estate, multifamily
properties, unique development opportunities,
and placements of equity or debt.
Secrets to Your Success:
Opportunities to become
better are everywhere
Evike Chang, of Evike.com, spoke about
the secrets of his success at the Chamber’s
Secrets for Your Success program on Nov. 19.
He said he believes that one has to
constantly move forward to be successful. There are a lot of competitions and
staying stagnant would mean being
caught up to. But he also emphasized
that competition is healthy and should
be viewed positively.
Mr. Chang said that opportunities to
become better are everywhere, and he
said he is constantly looking for them. An
example of this is if he drives by a billboard
that attracts his attention, he will think
about how he can use that design or idea
in his business.
Another example he gave is when he visited Target recently. He noticed that there
are automatic lights at the freezer section.
It directed his attention at the products
and saved electricity for the store. He implemented that in his retail store. He also
noticed that greeting cards are put in the
front of the store, and this reminded him of
the importance and the value of the space
in front of the cashier area. He returned to
his retail store and looked at what was in
front of the cashier and noticed that his
store displayed slow selling items the store
was trying to get rid of. He revamped the
display rack to put high margin, fast sellers
to improve sales.
Mr. Chang said as the leader of the
company, he is often at a vantage point
to come up with ideas and direction for
the company. Sometimes he proposes an
idea to his management team and he gets
pushback. While he keeps an open mind
for their input, he will still make the decision unless he is convinced not to proceed.
On the other hand, he said, if his team is
able to convince him not to move forward
with an idea, he will gladly accept and not
proceed.
Join the Chamber for the next Secrets
to Your Success on Thursday, Jan. 21. The
program is facilitated by Alhambra business leaders with a track record of success
who will share relevant business strategies
that have helped them build a profitable
business.
For more information, phone the
Chamber at 626-282-8481.
Bank of the West has moved to the new Alhambra Place to 2 S. Garfield Ave.,
Suite 110. The bank had a grand opening and ribbon cutting on Oct. 27. Bank
of the West is one of the nation’s largest banks, yet it preserves its local feel and
its award-winning style of relationship banking. From left are Frank Chen,
former Chamber president; Tracy Chan, Bank of the West customer service
manager; Judy Ting, Retail Banking Group regional manager; Mary Borg,
Retail Banking Group division executive; Cory Chang, VP branch manager;
Barbara Messina, vice mayor of Alhambra; and City Councilmembers Stephen
Sham and Steven Placido, D.D.S. The bank’s staff is standing in back.
12/2015
17A
Meeting of Minds: Building
communities with a
workforce advantage
Platt College hosts Chamber Mixer
The Chamber’s Business After Hours Mixer was hosted by Platt College, 1000 S. Fremont Ave.,
Alhambra, on Nov. 18. Platt College has provided education services to Southern California
residents for more than 20 years. There are 400 students at the college’s three campus locations
enrolled in Medical Assisting, Graphic Design, Web Design, 3D Animation, and Paralegal
programs.
From left are Chamber
President Robert Fukui;
Mike Giacomini, Platt College
campus president;
Patricia Barraza, Platt College
Specialty Program administrative
assistant; Melody Hernandez,
assistant to the Platt College
campus president; Eric Zakem,
Platt College librarian; and
Adriana Schaefer, director of
Career Services at Platt College.
The Alhambra Chamber of
Commerce recently hosted the
second in a series of “Meeting of
the Minds” luncheons aimed at
bringing employers and economic
development professionals together to improve the quality and
experience level of the workforce
pool.
Alhambra Chamber President
Robert Fukui of High Point
Marketing, Inc., served as the
master of ceremonies introducing
Kathryn Barger, chief of staff for
Los Angeles County Supervisor
Michael Antonovich. Ms. Barger’s
brief remarks set the tone for
the meeting and stressed how
important a well-trained and
educated workforce is to assuring
a successful local economy.
Dr. Christine Bosworth followed with her remarks centered
on new federal legislation directed
at workforce development and the
importance of local employer involvement in the implementation
of these new tools. Most of the
new programs are in the planning
stage and are targeted to take effect
in July of 2016. She also stressed
the importance of early involvement by the business community
in the initial planning process of
designing these new programs.
Marvin Martinez, president of
East Los Angeles College, gave
an overview of the college’s new
campus facilities and programs
designed to prepare the students
for today’s ever changing demands
of employers. He stressed how
the college’s future is dependent
on integrating the educational
systems of the local school districts
with that of the junior colleges
and that the need to keep pace
with the ever changing programs
of the local four-year institutions
is important.
Those in attendance were given
a well-rounded overview of how
the local educational programs
are in constant change to meet the
market place’s new demands. They
were also introduced to a number
of programs already in place and
available to them to assist them in
meeting their future employment
needs.
18A
COMMUNITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA
12/2015
Angie and Leslie Brand celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary on Nov. 1.
Alhambra residents Angie
and Leslie Brand celebrate
74th wedding anniversary
Longtime Alhambra residents Angie
and Leslie Brand celebrated their 74th
wedding anniversary on Nov. 1 with two
glasses of champagne and each other. They
said the big party will come on their 75th.
The beginning of Angie and Leslie
Brand’s love story occurred on Labor
Day in 1923, when 7-year-old Leslie and
his family arrived in Los Angeles from
Canada. On that very same day, 3-yearold Angie DeLucia arrived in Los Angeles
from Connecticut.
Angie and Leslie were once again in the
same place at the same time in 1940 at
an Italian picnic in Arroyo Seco Park. For
Leslie, it was love at first sight; however,
Angie said she fell for that gorgeous 1939
(Special World’s Fair Edition) Ford convertible with shiny chrome caps spotted
in the parking lot as she and her parents
entered the picnic. The two were married
on Nov. 1, 1941.
In 1954, the couple built a modest,
custom mid-century home in Alhambra
that still looks like a new home. They
raised two daughters, Lois Brand Billings
of Sierra Madre and Linda Brand Golant
of Pasadena. Their grandchildren are
Bradley J. Billings, Jennifer J. Finn,
Esq., and Cynthia M. Billings. Their five
great-grandchildren are Christian Billings
and Michelle Billings and Caroline, Jamie,
and Charlie Finn.
Angie and Leslie’s secrets of
a wonderful, long marriage are
“Always kiss and makeup before going to
bed at night. Never let a disagreement get
out of hand. Do not argue in front of anyone, especially the children. Don’t question
your wife’s spending.”
Mr. and Mrs. Brand’s daughters added,
“Our parents never crossed the line with
mean words, name-calling, and accusations. Their relationship has always been
founded on love, trust, respect and public
displays of affection. They really love one
another and do not care who knows it. At a
local Carl’s Jr, they are known as the cutest
couple.”
On Oct. 31, the day before their 74th
anniversary, Angie and Leslie were crowned
Honorary Homecoming King and Queen
at Los Angeles High, Leslie’s alma mater.
At ages 99 and 95, Leslie jokingly said
they owe their longevity and good health
to “genetics, fast foods, microwave meals,
hamburgers and sodas.” Leslie likes lots of
salt and Angie likes lots of candy.
“They not only have all their faculties,
they share a great sense of humor, and they
sure do love one another,” their kids said.
Feeding the hungry
through Farmers Market
Food Forward’s Farmers Market
Recovery Program launched the 17th
market in its Farmers Market Recovery
Program at the Alhambra Farmers
Market on Nov. 22. The Farmers Market
Recovery Program has collected 930,000
pounds of produce since 2012 to help
provide fresh produce to 45 agencies
across L.A. and Ventura counties. Food
that is usually thrown out at the end of
the farmers markets is donated to those
in need.
While food recovery is new to the
Alhambra market, Food Forward has
helped to reduce food waste throughout
Los Angeles since 2009, collecting more
than 13 million pounds since its inception. Beginning with a backyard harvest
program, Food Forward has now grown
to include gleaning programs at 16
farmers markets and a large scale recovery
program at the Downtown Los Angeles
Wholesale Produce Market.
Food Forward needs volunteers to
meet at the markets each week, distribute
boxes to vendors wishing to donate, and
then collect and weigh the boxes of full
produce. Volunteers must be at least 12
to participate, and any volunteer under
16 must have a parent or guardian along
as well.
Sign up for an event at www.foodforward.org.
For more information about volunteering for Food Forward or to sign up
for an event, go to www.foodforward.org
12/2015
American Renascent Center
to host fifth annual Christmas
toy give-away Dec. 19
The American Renascent Center
will host its fifth annual Christmas toy
give-away from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., or
while supplies last, Saturday, Dec. 19, at
IHOP Restaurant, 701 S. Fremont Ave.,
Alhambra.
This event is sponsored by IHOP
Restaurant, Khol’s Department Store,
Savon, Albertson’s Alhambra, Kole Import
of Carson, Applebee’s Alhambra, and Suc-
cessful Living Support Group.
American Renascent Center Inc. is a
non-profit organization that supports families and individuals suffering from various
mental disorders.
For more information, contact Ty Johnson at 323-534-8980 or Jimmie Carrilla at
323-868-7184. Visit online at www.americanrenascentcenter.wordpress.com.
Alhambra Firefighters ignite
Spark of Love toy drive
The Alhambra Firefighters Association will again join ABC7, firefighters
throughout Southern California, the City
of Alhambra, and the YMCA of West San
Gabriel Valley in the “Spark of Love” toy
drive to collect toys for distribution to
needy children for the holidays.
The toy drive kicked off on Nov. 6 and
ends on Dec. 19.
All donated toys will be distributed to
needy children and families through the
YMCA. Make a huge difference in a child’s
life by donating an unwrapped toy or piece
of sporting equipment and delivering that
item to one of the following sites:
Alhambra City Hall, 111 S. First St.,
weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• YMCA of West San Gabriel Valley,
401 Corto St.
• Alhambra Fire Department, Station 71
301 N. First St.
1215 S. Sixth St.
2200 W. Main St.
2505 W. Norwood Place.
For further information, please contact
Sergio Casanova
at the Alhambra
Fire Department:
626-588-2382.
19A
20A
COMMUNITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA12/2015
Robert Fukui, Chamber president, serves as one of the waiters Police Chief Mark Yokoyama works for tips to raise funds for Joe Pavon, Al’s Towing, helped out at the Celebrity Waiters
at the YMCA’s annual Celebrity Waiters Luncheon.
YMCA programs.
Luncheon as a waiter. On the right is Susanne Passantino
from luncheon sponsor Republic Services.
YMCA presents 30th annual Celebrity Waiters Luncheon
The YMCA hosted its 30th annual Celebrity Waiters
Luncheon on Oct. 27 at Almansor Court. The event raised
funds for the Y’s programs.
“The Celebrity Waiters Luncheon brings us together to
raise much needed funds for youth programs, making a
positive impact in our community for the leaders of tomorrow, our children. We’re about teaching life skills,” said
Valarie Gomez, CEO of YMCA West San Gabriel Valley.
“More than at any other time, we see more families using
our YMCA as a support partner in raising their children.
You’ll see 238 children in our summer and academic enrichment day camp, more than 200 kids at our residential
mountain camp Ta Ta Pochon, and 30 children in our
afterschool program. Our basketball clinics teach good
sportsmanship and respect, and hundreds of children sign
up for swim instruction Life Saving.
“Every day, you’ll see veterans and seniors at our Y
for the many health and wellness classes. For many, the
memberships are paid through their insurance providers.
Our oldest member will be 100 on Dec. 23!”
Fire Chief Bill Walker praised the Y and talked about
the Y building a gymnasium and for people to stop by to
discuss how to get the fund raising going for it. He said 87
cents of every dollar goes toward the Y’s programs.
Former Mayor of Alhambra Mark Paulson served as
emcee.
Local community and business leaders, dressed in
Halloween costumes, donated their time to wait on tables,
earning tips and acclaim.
LIFT students and teachers also helped out. The students entertained by singing along to YMCA.
Phyllis Murphy, former YMCA of West San Gabriel
Valley CEO, was honored for starting the luncheon 30
years ago. “Make this truly a success so we can help the
people and the families who need the help,” she said.
Peppy Sciarra, former YMCA board president, and his
wife, Lucille, were congratulated for celebrating their 69th
wedding anniversary.
Police Chief Mark Yokoyama won the funniest costume
category in the costume contest. Dan Johnson, Diversified
Alarm, won the scariest category, and Joe Pavon, Al’s Towing, and Rafael Garcia, Republic Services, won for most
original.
There was a live auction and a silent auction that
included items such as Disneyland Park Hopper tickets
for four, L.A. Lakers game for four, a Big Bear weekend
getaway, and a home-cooked meal provided by Councilmember Barbara Messina. Some of the raffle prizes were
a T.V., bikes, tickets to The Aquarium of the Pacific and
Almansor Court, and gift certificates.
The YMCA, 401 E. Corto, Alhambra, has served the
community for 103 years in five cities: Alhambra, San
Gabriel, Rosemead, Monterey Park, and El Monte. Contact the Y at 626-576-0226. Find out more about the Y at
www.wsgvymca.org, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/
sgvymca, and on Twitter/Instagram @ymcasgv.
Alhambra
Woman’s Club
to meet Dec. 4
The Alhambra Woman’s Club will meet at 11:30 a.m.
Friday, Dec. 4, at Almansor Court, 700 S. Almansor St.,
Alhambra.
Entertainment will be provided by songstress Gaennae,
who will sing and also lead the group in singing carols.
Please bring a new, unwrapped toy for a needy child, which
will be delivered to an Alhambra Fire Station for the “Spark of
Love” toy drive.
All women who enjoy good humor, excellent food, and fun
entertainment are invited.
Cost for members is $15. Non-members are $20.
Phone 626-289-9307 by Dec. 1 to make a reservation.
Mark Keppel reunion
Happy
Holidays!
Mark Keppel High School members of the class of ‘65 met for their 50th reunion Oct. 23 and 24. About 70 alumni
toured Mark Keppel and later attended the homecoming game of cross-town rivals Alhambra High and Mark Keppel. On
Saturday, there was a luncheon at the Queen Mary in Long Beach.
12/2015
21A
Jayvee Dance Center
will help with New
Year resolutions
Jayvee Dance Center will help clients
reach their post-holiday fitness goals.
Zumba classes will be offered at 6:30 p.m.
every Tuesday and Thursday with Clarissa.
Yoga with Clarissa will be offered at 8:30
a.m. on Saturdays, and Zumba with Genevieve will be taught at 9:30 a.m.
“Head on over to Jayvee Dance Center
at 216 E. Main St., Alhambra, for a dose
of fitness and sweat during this holiday
season,” said Studio Manager Tu DeVera.
“Keep those New Year’s resolutions in
check and visit Jayvee Dance Center today.
Bring in this article for $5 off a single trial
class of a Zumba or Yoga class.”
For more information about Jayvee,
visit them at jayveedancecenter.net, or
phone 626-281-JVJV.
Community Calendar of Events
December
Dec. 1 – Tuesday
• Alhambra Chamber Executive Committee
8:30 a.m. Alhambra Chamber, 104 S. First St.
• HCDA Citizens Advisory Committee
7 p.m. - City Hall, conference room
111 S. First St.
Dec. 3 – Thursday
Parks and Recreation Commission
7 p.m., Joslyn Center, Story Park
210 N. Chapel Ave.
Dec. 4 – Friday
Tree Lighting Ceremony
5:30 to 9 p.m. Renaissance Plaza
northeast corner Garfield and Main
Free Santa photos, entertainment,
and refreshments
Dec. 7 – Monday
Planning Commission
7 p.m., City Hall, council chambers
111 S. First St.
Dec. 8 – Tuesday
• Rose Queen and Court Luncheon
11:45 a.m. at Almansor Court
700 S. Almansor St.
$40 per person
For reservations, phone 626-282-8481
• Library Board of Trustees
6 p.m., library boardroom, 101 S. First St.
• Youth Commission
• Design Review Board
7:30 p.m., City Hall, conference room
111 S. First St.
Dec. 10 – Thursday
Coffee Talk
Chamber business networking event
Hosted by Cokreeate
8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
410 W. Main St., Unit 221, Alhambra
Cost is free
RSVP: 626-282-8481
Dec. 14 – Monday
City Council, 7 p.m.
City Hall, 111 S. First St.
Dec. 16 – Wednesday
• Business After Hours Holiday Mixer
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Rosemont Pavilion
700 Seco St., Pasadena 91103
$10 members, $15 non-members,
or free admittance with an unwrapped gift
or a gift card
for the Spark of Love toy drive
• Arts & Cultural Events Committee
7 p.m., City Hall, conference room
111 S. First St.
January
Jan. 4 – Monday
Planning Commission
111 S. First St.
Jan. 5 – Tuesday
• Alhambra Chamber Executive Committee
8:30 a.m. Alhambra Chamber, 104 S. First St.
• HCDA Citizen Advisory Committee
7 p.m. - City Hall, conference room
111 S. First St.
Jan. 7 – Thursday
Parks and Recreation Commission
7 p.m., Joslyn Center, Story Park
210 N. Chapel Ave.
Jan. 11 – Monday
Alhambra City Council, 7 p.m.
City Hall, 111 S. First St.
• Survivors of Murdered Children, SGV Chapter
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Third Wednesday of each month
Alhambra Police Department
211 S. First St., room EDC on second floor
Contact Tina Yamashiro at 626-298-9054 or
[email protected]
Jan. 12 – Tuesday
• Alhambra Chamber Board of Directors
8:30 a.m., Alhambra Chamber, 104 S. First St.
• Library Board of Trustees
• Youth Commission
111 S. First St.
Jan. 21 – Thursday
“Secrets for YOUR Success,” The Chamber’s
new monthly business training program, is
facilitated by Alhambra business leaders with
a track record of success. They will share
relevant business strategies that have helped
them build a profitable business.
January program to be announced.
Learn about various solutions to the challenges of
entrepreneurship, from marketing, optimization,
leadership, to finding growth.
The cost of the program is free to Chamber
members and a modest $15 charge for nonmembers. A complimentary lunch is included.
Early reservations are suggested due to limited seating.
Phone the Chamber for more information or
to make reservations: 626-282-8481
Jan. 13 – Wednesday
Transportation Committee
7 p.m., City Hall, conference room
111 S. First St.
Jan. 14 – Thursday
Coffee Talk
Chamber business networking event
Hosted by The Fit Factor
8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
38 W. Main St., Alhambra
Cost is free
RSVP: 626-282-8481
Jan. 19 – Tuesday
Planning Commission
111 S. First St.
• Arts & Cultural Events Committee
7p.m., City Hall, conference room
111 S. First St.
Jan. 25 – Monday
Alhambra City Council, 7 p.m., City Hall, 111 S. First St.
Jan. 26 – Tuesday
• Government Affairs Committee
9 a.m., Chamber, 104 S. First St.
111 S. First St.
Business After Hours Mixer
Alhambra Chrysler Jeep Ram
1100 W. Main St., Alhambra 91801
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
$10 members, $15 non-members
Alhambra Service Clubs and Organizations
Tuesday: The Exchange Club meets at 12:30 p.m. every Tuesday at Almansor Court, 700 S. Almansor St., Alhambra. The Rotary Club and Soroptimist Club meet at noon every
Tuesday at Almansor Court. The Civitan Club meets at noon every first and third Tuesdays at Azteca Restaurant, 717 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Gabriel. The Kiwanis Club of Alhambra
meets at 5 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays at noon at Denny’s Restaurant, 369 W. Main St., Alhambra (for information, phone 626-943-2542).
Wednesday: The Alhambra Historical Society presents its program meetings at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of January, March, May, September, and November (November
meeting takes place after Thanksgiving) at the Masonic Center, 9 W. Woodward Ave. The Alhambra Woman’s Club meets at noon on the first Wednesday each month (except for June
through Sept.), write to P.O. Box 473, Alhambra 91802. Toastmasters meets from 6:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays each month at the Colonial Kitchen Restaurant,
1110 Huntington Drive, San Marino. The League of Women Voters meets on the third Wednesday each month (626-798-0965 for info.). The Lions Club meets at 6:15 p.m. on the third
Wednesday each month at the Regent Café, 1411 S. Garfield Ave., Alhambra.
Thursday: American Legion Post 139 meets at 7 p.m. on the first Thursday each month at the Legion Hall, 24 N. Stoneman Ave., Alhambra. San Gabriel Valley New Generation
Rotary Club meets from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. every Thursday at Fronteras Mexican Grill & Cantina, 118 W. Main St., Alhambra.
22A
12/2015
7 Things You Must
St. Thomas More Church to present
Know Before Putting annual Christmas boutique
Your Home Up for Sale
Alhambra - A new report has just been
released which reveals 7 costly mistakes
that 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 clearly how the traditional ways
of selling homes have become increasingly
less and less effective in today’s market.
The fact of the matter is that fully three
quarters of homesellers don’t get what
they want for their homes and become
disillusioned and - worse – financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on
the market. As this report uncovers, most
homesellers make 7 deadly mistakes that
cost them literally thousands of dollars.
The good news is that each and every one
of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In
answer to this issue, industry insiders have
prepared a free special report entitled “The
9 Step System to Get 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 can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7
days a week.
Get your free special report NOW to
find out how you can get the most money
for your home.
This report is courtesy of Rudy L. Kusuma
Real Esate Broker Lic# 01820322. Not intended solicit buyers or sellers currently under
contract.
St. Thomas More Church will present
its annual Christmas Boutique from 8:30
a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, at 2510 S.
Fremont Ave., Alhambra.
Hot breakfast items will be available.
There will be at least 30 vendors offering
baked goods, items for the home, religious articles, jewelry, clothing, cosmetics, and gourmet coffee.
There will be a Silent Auction, which
will include artwork, antiques, gift certificates, and much more. Raffle tickets will
be on sale for $1 each. The grand prize is
$1,000. Second prize is $300, and third
prize will have three winners of $50 each.
Winners do not have to be present. There
will be several door prizes.
Santa will drop in to take pictures and
go over wish lists.
Proceeds from the boutique will be
used for a much-needed new heating and
cooling system for the Rectory.
For more information, or to buy raffle
tickets early, please contact the Rectory at
626- 284-8333.
Heritage Award winners
Recipients of 2015 Heritage Awards display their honors at the Nov. 4
Alhambra Preservation Group event in Reese Hall at the Alhambra Civic Center
Library. This annual awards program recognizes the achievements of local
property owners who have made significant contributions to the preservation
of Alhambra’s historically built environment. From left are honorees Robert
Loveless and Janet Klein; Dr. David Reynolds; Alhambra School District Supt.
Dr. Laura Tellez-Gagliano and school board President Adele Andrade-Stadler,
representing Emery Park School; and APG President Christine Olson, on behalf
of Amy and Anthony LoCascio.
To inquire about these
adoptable animals, contact the
San Gabriel Valley Humane
Society at 626-286-1159, or
visit at 851 E. Grand Ave.,
San Gabriel. Adoption hours
are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday through Sunday. The
shelter is closed on Mondays.
Directions and photos of
many more dogs and cats
can be found online at www.
sgvhumane.org.
The adoption fee for cats is
$99, which includes spay/neuter, vaccinations, de-worming,
FIV/FELV/heartworm testing,
and microchip. A $120-$135
dog adoption fee includes
microchip, vaccinations, spay/
neuter surgery, and de-worming, as well as a free health
check-up at a participating vet
(some breeds slightly higher).
The 2016 calendars are
available at the shelter for a
$10 donation. The photos
were selected among hundreds submitted by shelter
supporters. They make great
holiday gifts for animal lovers.
Order a 2016 calendar online
by going through Paypal.
Go to the shelter Web site
at sgvhumane.org for more
information.
Save money with the Buddy
Program. Adopt two pets at the
same time for a reduced fee.
The Senior for Senior Program offers pets for $39 each.
The San Gabriel Valley
Humane Society is the local,
affordable choice for spay
and neuter, vaccinations, and
TNR (trap, neuter, and release) for feral cats. Check out
the Web site for information
on the adoptable pets and
adoption programs: www.
sgvhumane.org.
Domestic short hair mix •
young • male • medium •
ID #12257
Sherlock left the building months
ago, and his assistant Holmes is
still looking for a forever home.
He is about 18 months old and
will come over to greet visitors
by rubbing against their legs and
hopping in a lap if one is available.
He snuggles with his buddies in
Meow Manor and would get along
with another cat in the household.
He likes to play, especially when
there is a new box in the room to
explore. He has medium length
hair, which makes him fluffy and
cuddly. Come meet this awesome
guy at the Mini Manor today.
Terrier mix • senior • male •
small • ID #5525
Flash is a spunky, independent terrier
mix with a unique one-ear-up, one-eardown look. He most often has a smile
on his face and will greet people with
a friendly welcome bark. Flash was
surrendered to the shelter because his
family had to move to a home where pets
are not allowed. He is easy to harness
and enjoys going for walks to the park
with the volunteers. He is interested in
the outside world and likes to sniff and
explore when he gets out, taking in all
the activity going on around him. Flash
has known the feeling of being a family
pet, and would love to spend his senior
years enjoying the security and comfort
of his own home again. He has a lot of
personality and would be happy if he
could show what a great dog he is to the
right family. Why not come in to meet
him soon?
Rabbit • bunny rabbit mix •
young • male • medium •
ID #18289
Harvey wants people to know that
he is so much more than giant ears
and a cute button nose. He has
a calm temperament and would
make a wonderful pet. He is very
social and like all rabbits, would
make an ideal indoor pet. He needs
lots of exercise and enrichment
activities to keep him at his best.
He can be litter box trained and
will happily hop around the home
waiting for some quality snuggle
time on the sofa with his family.
Please stop by and feed him some
carrot or beet tops and get to know
him. He would love to be part of
a family.
12/2015
23A
Downtown Alhambra sponsors frightful time on Main Street
About 150 monsters, vampires, witches,
and more participated in Downtown
Alhambra’s annual Halloween costume
contest Oct. 31 at Renaissance Plaza, at
Garfield and Main. More than 1,000 trickor-treaters visited participating businesses.
Prizes for first, second, and third places,
and a judges award were given in each age
category plus a group category.
The effervescent Mookie Washington
was the emcee for the event.
Several businesses, including The Fit
Factor and Rose Hills, gave out information.
There were balloons and face painting. Costumed characters interacted with the crowd.
Jayvee Dance Center provided entertainment, including performances by The
Pink Ladies and Rated G.
The Downtown Alhambra Businesses
Association sponsored the event.
Winners in the 7-9 age category
First Place — Karyme Martinez, 9 years old, “Spongebob”
Second Place — Maya Armot, 8 years old, “Zombie Bride”
Third Place — Alyssa Hernandez, 8 years old, “I Love Lucy”
Judges Award — Emily Vasquez, 9 years old, “Witch”
First Place — Benjamin Hernandez, 2 years old, “Taco Truck”
Second Place — Adilene Perez, 5 months old, “Pinata”
Third Place — Maxwell Revas, 2 years old, “Strong Man”
Judges Award — Sydney Cha, 1 year old, “Little Chicken”
Winners in the ages 7 to 9 group, from left: Judges Award — Emily Vasquez; First
Place — Karyme Martinez; Second Place — Maya Armot; and Third Place — Alyssa
Hernandez. Mookie Washington, in middle, was the emcee.
First Place — Kelly Chan, 10 years old, “Sadness from Inside Out”
Second Place — Juliana Hernandez, 10 years old, “Fortune Teller”
Third Place — Kylie Lam, 10 years old, “Ice Cream Truck”
Judges Award — Victor Romero, 11 years old, “Vending Machine”
Halloween costume contest winners ages 0 to 2, from left: Judges Award — Sydney Cha;
First Place — Benjamin Hernandez; Second Place — Adilene Perez; and Third Place
— Maxwell Revas.
First Place — Naiyma, “Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas”
Second Place — Anna, “Cat”
Third Place — Evan, “BB8 from Star Wars”
Judges Award — Ethan, “the Joker”
Winners in the ages 10-12 group, from left: Judges Award — Victor Romero; First Place
— Kelly Chan; Second Place — Juliana Hernandez; and Third Place — Kylie Lam.
Winners in the Group Category
The Valdovino family as Nightmare Before Christmas
Winners in the ages 3 and 4 group, from left: Judges Award — Ethan; First Place —
Sally; Second Place — Anna; and Third Place — Evan.
First Place — Elizabeth Halker, 5 years old, “Wild Style”
Second Place — Mickey Martinez, 6 years old, “E.T.”
Third Place — Dominic Chavez, 6 years old, “Vampire”
Judges Award — Diego Mojarro, 5 years old, “R.C. car from Toy Story”
Winners in the ages 5 and 6 group, from left: First Place — Elizabeth Halker; Second
Place — Mickey Martinez; Third Place — Dominic Chavez; and Judges Award —
Diego Mojarro.
A performance by
The Pink Ladies from
Jayvee Dance Center
added to the Halloween
entertainment.
24A
COMMUNITY NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA12/2015
Enrolling in a savings plan at a young age and having those payroll deductions accrue in a
pre-tax savings account is a solid strategy for starting down the path of saving for retirement.
Saving early, saving consistently
are keys to being financially
prepared for retirement
BY SANDY WALIA, WELLS FARGO
PRESIDENT GREATER SAN GABRIEL
As parents, we may tell our children
that the fastest way to finish a difficult
homework assignment is to sit down at the
kitchen table, start with that first problem,
and move on from there. They may not like
this solution very much, but a few minutes
later, the assignment is done.
We can apply that same approach to saving for retirement. Young employees might
view putting aside money for retirement
as something that’s too difficult to do. It’s
something they believe can be done later,
since the retirement date is so far away. But
just the opposite is true. Simply enrolling
in the plan at a young age and having those
payroll deductions accrue in a pre-tax savings account is a solid strategy for starting
down the path of saving for retirement.
Results from our latest Wells Fargo
Retirement Study show the difference this
approach can make. Workers ages 55 to 59
who began contributing to a retirement
plan at an average age of 31 had amassed
a median of $150,000 toward their goal
of a median of $500,000, three times as
much as what workers in their 60s or older
had saved, who started saving at an average
age of 37. Six more years of savings made
a significant impact, something that really
stood out to me. It reinforces something
our industry is well aware of, the concept
of employees using time to their advantage.
Younger workers who have “time on their
side” shouldn’t squander this gift that some
longer-tenured workers may envy.
Many companies we work with, recognizing the impact of savings over time, have
added an automatic enrollment feature to
workplace plans. New employees joining
the company are automatically in the plan
at a starting percentage, unless they opt
out. It’s one of many strategies that should
pay dividends for generations of workers
saving for retirement in a 401(k) plan or
equivalent plan.
This strategy also creates an environment
for consistent savings, another key contributor to success in saving for retirement. Of
those responding to our 2015 retirement
study, 45% of workers 40 or older and 47%
of retirees told us they had started saving
for retirement from the first day they began
working. This group of workers 40 or older
who kept saving throughout their careers
have amassed a median of $160,000 in
retirement savings, exactly $100,000 more
than workers who have not consistently
saved. We were pleased to see that income
level didn’t deter people from consistently
saving. In our study, 31% of those saving
for retirement from the beginning earned
less than $50,000 a year.
Consistent savers in our study also
shared they had a healthier outlook: 71%
believe they will have enough saved for a
comfortable retirement and only 28% plan
to heavily rely on Social Security.
I would also advocate that saving consistently also means leaving that savings
alone. As dollars grow in a workplace retirement plan, it can be tempting to withdraw
some of it for today’s expenses. There are
significant penalties that come with early
withdrawals. Not only will you lose out on
that pre-tax money saved for retirement,
but many people in this situation also stop
contributing to their retirement plan. That
means you’re losing out two different ways.
People without a workplace savings
plan can still be consistent savers. Subject
to eligibility requirements, you can set up
an automatic savings program and make
systematic contributions up to $5,500
annually to either a Roth IRA (with
after-tax dollars) or traditional IRA (with
pre-tax dollars). Consider this: Annual
contributions of $5,500 become $110,000
in 20 years!
Some retirement savings tips
Here are some other steps to foster
consistent retirement savings:
• Use the tools available in your plan. If
your workplace plan includes an employer
match, work hard to contribute enough to
take full advantage of it. The match means
your employer is investing in your future,
something you shouldn’t take lightly.
•If you have access to a workplace
savings plan but haven’t started contributing, enroll today. Start deducting a small
percentage of each paycheck and see how
much you notice the missing dollars. If
you’re able to get by, consider increasing
the percentage each year.
• Individuals contributing to a workplace plan should consider increasing their
contribution amount by 1% each year. Try
it for a few paychecks and see if you’re still
able to pay your monthly bills. If so, keep it
there and resolve to increase it by 1% next
year, too. If not, take a fresh look next year,
perhaps increasing your rate after receiving
a tax refund or pay raise.
• Most plans allow workers over the age
of 50 in a 401(k) plan the ability to make
catch-up contributions up to $6,000 each
year, on top of the $18,000 annual deferral
savings limit for all workplace plans. That’s
a great way to maximize savings as retirement draws closer.
Saving for retirement early in your career
and being consistent in your savings habits
are crucial to mapping out a comfortable
retirement. We’re encouraged there are
early and consistent savers out there and
hopeful that more will join their ranks once
they see the difference it makes. Putting
yourself in position for a secure retirement
is a marathon not a sprint, something that
starts with that first step.
12/2015
ACADEMIC NEWS AROUND ALHAMBRA
25A
UC Davis representative discusses the UC system with a group of students.
Dr. Art Delgado, second from left, Los Angeles County Office of Education Superintendent,
recently visited Emery Park Elementary School to observe the outstanding work of both teachers
and students. He was accompanied on his visit by Alhambra Unified School District Supt. Dr.
Laura Tellez-Gagliano, left, Alhambra Unified School District Board of Education President
Adele Andrade-Stadler, and Emery Park Elementary School Principal Dr. David Reynolds.
Students learn about college
opportunities at 8th annual
High rankings earn Emery Park District College Fair
Elementary School L.A. County
Education Superintendent visit
Emery Park Elementary School was
selected to be the first District school to
host a visit from Dr. Art Delgado, Los
Angeles County Office of Education superintendent, on the basis of the quality of
instruction and student work.
Emery Park School Principal Dr. David
Reynolds described his staff as diligently
collaborative, analyzing ongoing student
educational success against California State
Standards and continually reflecting on
teaching strategies and student activities “to
ensure that our students are academically
successful.”
Supt. Delgado’s observations included
the following:
• Friendly students and teaching staff.
• Students were readily able to answer
questions regarding the standard that was
being addressed in the classroom.
• Classroom work was posted in every
classroom visited.
• A friendly, respectful atmosphere.
• Focused and engaged students.
• Concentrated engagement between
teachers and students.
AHS SPEECH AND DEBATE TEAM From Page 1A
first place trophies, the most the team
has ever won since first attending this
competition, along with 16 Superiority ribbons (second place) and 24
Excellence ribbons (third place).
“Package Deal is one of the biggest
tournaments at the start of the year, so
to have the novices start the season off so
strong is spectacular,” said Andy Chan,
a senior and one of the current head
captains of the team. “The novices all
worked really hard and, as a captain, it
makes me proud to see their hard work
come to fruition.”
Senior Taylor Thomas, another of
the head captains said, “Our novices
are extremely dedicated this year, and
I’m glad that their hard work paid off.
It was an introductory tournament, so I
hope that their success will give them the
confidence they need to take this step in
their forensics journey.”
Two weeks later, the team travelled
to Schurr High School for its annual
Spartan Fall Classic. The return proved
to be triumphant as it captured second
place sweepstakes in speech events the
first day and then first place sweepstakes
in debate the next. It was the second year
in a row for the group and marked the
debut of many of its novices at an invitational tournament. The team, which
now boasts more than 150 members,
participates in more than 25 competitions a year and continues to maintain
league, state, and national rankings.
“Our success at this tournament was
unprecedented, but that isn’t to say that
we didn’t work extremely hard to achieve
this success,” Taylor said. “Our team is
growing profoundly, but everyone is
surpassing expectations. It’s amazing to
see!”
“Spartan Fall Classic was a great tournament because the entire team really
got to shine,” said Andy. “We have never
done so well at this tournament, and for
us to do so well collectively as a team and
individually shows how far our team has
come since its inception.”
The members of the team sign up for
seventh period speech and debate class
after school, and often times stay until 6
p.m. practicing their speeches and developing their debate cases. Tiffany Chiang,
the third head captain of the team and
also a senior, said, “As a captain, seeing
our members succeed is extremely
satisfying because their dedication and
hard work during practice is not only
being reflected at tournaments, but also
everyday life.”
Alhambra is one of the only teams in
the Southern California Debate League
that has an open enrollment policy. Instead of holding tryouts, anyone wishing
to commit and work is allowed to join
the team. Each of the members of the
squad is very grateful to have a team
because many high schools pass on this
activity knowing how much time it takes
to keep a team afloat.
The Alhambra Unified School District
hosted its 8th annual District-wide College
Fair at San Gabriel High School on Oct.
15. Close to 60 representatives from colleges
and universities from throughout the United
States and military branches were present to
provide information about their campuses,
services, and requirements to Alhambra
School District students and parents.
Students learned about concurrent
enrollment courses available at several high
schools, where one is able to take college
level courses, earning college credits while
attending high school. In addition, faculty
and students from Alhambra High School’s
Green Construction Academy and San
Gabriel High School’s Medical Careers
Academy showcased their programs for
students interested in pursuing related
careers after high school. Students from
Medical Careers Academy showcased the
skills learned by demonstrating blood
pressure measurements for participants.
New to this year’s College Fair were
informational sessions addressing UC
Personal Statements (Mark Keppel and San
Gabriel high schools Career Technical Education Advisors); Basics of Banking (Wells
Fargo); New vs. Old SAT, PSAT, and ACT
(Princeton Review); and College Savings
and Funding (The Weiner Group).
“This year’s event was a big success,”
said Monica Marquez, Career Education
technician and College Fair coordinator.
“Working with the different college and
university representatives has provided
many resources for our students seeking
higher education. As time goes on, we hope
that all students pursue post-secondary
education and training in order to further
their dreams and aspirations.”
For more information, please contact
Judy Huffaker, Career Technical Education
coordinator, at 626-943-6990.
Career Centers are located at each high
school and are available to assist students
with any college or career related questions.
Career Center hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30
p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and
7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays.
Southwestern Husky Salad Bowl
Monterey Highlands Elementary School students participated in the school’s
annual Husky Salad Bowl. As students chanted “Mix it,” Alhambra School
District’s Director of Elementary Education Janet Lees and the Monterey Park
Fire Department mixed and tossed in lettuce, corn, tomatoes, kidney beans, and
salad dressing into a Jacuzzi-sized bowl to create a delicious salad, which was
served to all students and staff at lunch. From left are Instructional Specialist Dr.
Linda Nakagawa, Principal Dr. Debbie Kotani, Assistant Principal Lisa Wong,
and Monterey Park Fire Fighters Travis Start and Scott Kelley. Photo by Walt
Mancini, Pasadena Star News.
26A
12/2015
Students at Emery Park School completed their first afterschool enrichment program in robotics
on Nov. 13.
Emery Park School students
celebrate completion
of robotics program
Emery Park School celebrated the completion of its first afterschool enrichment
program in robotics on Nov. 13 with a
showcase at the school. Attendees included
parents, district dignitaries, teachers, and
the students who completed the program.
The VEX robots built by the students were
on display.
“The festivities included a spectacular
competition and a memorable presentation
of awards,” said Amber Pham Huerta, one
of the program’s teachers. “It marked the
end of a journey that started nine weeks
ago with students who had no idea what a
VEX robot was.”
The goal of this new endeavor was to
create an afterschool program to encourage
students not only to increase their interest
and knowledge of the core subjects, such
as science, technology, engineering, and
mathematics (STEM), but also to enlighten them to their future possibilities in
technology.
“Once the classes began, the students
performed beyond expectations and continued to exceed all set objectives,” said
Ms. Huerta.
“The success of this first session has
sparked a large interest within the school
community,” said the other program’s
teacher Melanie Wong. “As the academic
school year continues, Emery Park School
will continue to offer this program, outreaching to all grade levels.”
Teaching Gardens teach
youngsters about healthy living
in school-based program
Northrup Elementary School has been
adopted by the American Heart Association for two years to implement a new
approach in the fight against childhood
obesity: to dramatically change the way
Americans eat and think about food by
teaching kids about healthy living through
fun, hands-on gardening.
The program is entitled Teaching Gardens, which is described as a real-life laboratory where students learn how to plant
seeds, nurture growing plants, harvest
produce, and ultimately understand the
value of good eating habits. The program
also teaches children to prepare healthy
meals and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Numerous studies have shown that
participation in school garden programs
can have a positive impact on students’ attitudes toward fruits and vegetables. Youth
who are involved in preparing their own
meals are more likely to eat nutrient-rich
foods and more fruits and vegetables.
Pilar Otero, Northrup’s seventh-grade
science teacher, oversees the Teaching
Garden program and has earned the
title Champion from the American Heart
Association — an honorary title given to
local site coordinators.
Champion Otero, along with AHA,
kicked off the program with a schoolwide
“Plant Day Extravaganza” during which
students and several Northrup parent volunteers organized the garden and planted
seeds. Students opened the extravaganza
with the singing of the song Let Your
Garden Grow. Marisa Rodriguez, AHA
Teaching Gardens Program manager,
while presenting the school with a Golden Shovel plaque, commented that the
“Plant Day Extravaganza was a wonderful
success.”
“I feel tremendously grateful for
Northrup to have received the American
Heart Association Teaching Gardens
Grant,” said Miss Otero. “Our entire
school community collaborated at our debut Plant Day Extravaganza that consisted
of students, parents, teachers, and administrators coming together to accomplish a
sustainable platform for our futures. All
were involved in building raised beds,
transporting soil, and planting seedlings.
Having this type of hands-on garden experience will truly enrich student lives and
learning. We can’t wait for the harvest.”
12/2015
27A
Northrup Elementary Monterey Highlands Elementary
School is Nationally
students shine
“Each of you are shining stars in your
own special way and should always strive to
be the brightest star that you can be,” said
Northrup first-grade teacher Traci Vo as she
recently observed the STAR Formation on
the Northrup playground.
The STAR Formation began in 2013
when the students and staff decided to
physically form, using their bodies, the
shape of a peace sign on the playground
in commemoration of International Peace
Day. They followed that successful event
the following year by forming the shape
of the United States Flag, commemorating
Constitution Day.
With the thought that Northrup
students and staff shine like stars, Office
Assistant Veronica Crepeault and Office
Manager Amanda Kirkpatrick were inspired to organize the 2015 Star Formation
by Stephen Hawking’s comment, “Look up
at the stars and not down at your feet. Try
to make sense of what you see, and wonder
about what makes the universe exist.”
To the music of Star Wars, the students
entered the field, each holding a golden
sheet of paper. They organized themselves
into a giant star, waving their golden sheets
above their heads, creating a gigantic twinkling star.
“Creating the STAR Formation with
the entire student body and staff was an
exciting and memorable experience for my
students,” said Ms. Vo. “They enjoyed being a part of a school-wide activity, seeing
everyone work together.”
“I liked how we all made the star
together,” said sixth-grade student Victor
Romero-Simoes.
Some of the Northrup teachers taught
lessons that week on what stars are made
of and how they are used to symbolize
positive student energy.
Marguerita School recently had its annual Fall Carnival. School staff,
volunteers, and Jesse Chang and members of the Healthy Youth and Family
Coalition all pitched in to help. There were games, activities, a haunted house,
a jail booth, food, drink, and snow cones. The main organizer of the event,
Speech Pathologist Maria Rubalcaba, kept busy throughout the afternoon
spinning cotton candy. Proceeds raised from the event will help support
extended and supplementary learning activities in the Marguerita classrooms.
Maria Rubalcaba, left, and Joanna Aragon man the cotton candy machine.
Recognized Healthy School
Monterey Highlands was
awarded the Silver Award for being
a Nationally Recognized Healthy
School in Washington D.C. on
Oct. 3. The award was received by
Principal Dr. Debbie Kotani.
The Alliance for a Healthier
Generation’s Healthy Schools
Program is an evidence-based
initiative that supports a healthy
environment where students can
learn and improve their health
and nutrition. The Alliance was
founded by the American Heart
Association and the Clinton
Foundation as a response to the
growing rate of childhood obesity.
“As a 2015 Nationally Recognized
Healthy School, Monterey Highlands Elementary School prides
itself on teaching our students the
importance of eating healthy and
staying active,” said Dr. Kotani.
“This award was attainable because
of the close partnership between
our staff and our PTA.”
Principal Dr. Debbie Kotani receives the Silver Award
for Monterey Highlands Elementary School being
named a Nationally Recognized Healthy School.
The award was presented by Howell Wechsler, chief
executive officer of Alliance for a Healthier Generation.
Students participate in a Hula Hoop contest at Monterey Highlands Elementary School’s
second annual PTA Health Fair.
Huskies get healthy at
Monterey Highlands’ 2nd
annual PTA Health Fair
“Hula-hoopers, get ready in 5 … 4 …
3 … 2 … 1! Go!” So began the first of two
student contests at Monterey Highlands
Elementary School’s second annual PTA
Health Fair, which took place Sept. 25 after the Husky Southern Salad Bowl event.
After the Hula Hoop contest, students
participated in a rope-jumping contest.
After all the contests, all attendees had the
opportunity to cool down with a free sample of a homemade strawberry-blueberry
frozen smoothie.
Representatives from health organizations throughout the San Gabriel Valley
were in attendance to talk to participants
about staying healthy. Free vision tests were
provided by the Monterey Park Lion’s Club
and environmental health issues were addressed by the County of Los Angeles. The
health fair provided Monterey Highlands
Elementary students and their families
with many opportunities to learn more
about staying healthy.
The vendors at the fair included the
American Heart Association, Good
Neighbor Pharmacists Chi and David
Cheng, Monterey Park Farmers Market,
Dr. Benjamin Scherer, Start Your Breakfast
Right!, Dr. Cindi Kodama, LA Fitness, the
Monterey Park Fire Department, County
of Los Angeles Public Health Department,
Dr. Matt Chang, and the Monterey Park
Lions Club.
“This annual PTA-sponsored health fair
is truly a community event,” said Monterey
Highlands Elementary School PTA President Kelly Tong. “Our goal in hosting this
event is to teach people how to get healthy
and have a lot of fun while doing it.”

December 2015 Section A - Alhambra Chamber of Commerce

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