tag:www.insidesocal.com,2009-01-29:/montclairnow//459 2011-07-26T01:00:07Z Daily news source for Montclair Movable Type 4.25 tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204685 2011-07-23T00:58:34Z 2011-07-26T01:00:07Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com Free water wise plants and irrigation workshop 

The Chino Basin Water Conservation District Water is offering a free workshop on Saturday. 

The workshop - wise landscaping workshop focusing on drought tolerant plants and efficient irrigation - is from 9 a.m to 12:30 p.m. at the district, 4594 San Bernardino Road. 

At this educational workshop, residents will learn about a variety of beautiful drought tolerant plants that will make their landscape the envy of their neighborhood. 

Various irrigation methods that reduce water waste will also be highlighted. 

In addition to an entertaining presentation, attendees will be given helpful handouts, water wise giveaways, snacks and a tour of CBWCD's drought tolerant demonstration garden. 

To sign up or for more information, visit www.cbwcd.org or call 909-626-2711. 

Walk-ins welcome. 

Concert series continues on Tuesday 

The city continues its 50th annual Summer Concert Series, "Remember Then." 

The series, hosted by the Human Services Department is free and open to the public beginning at 7 p.m. at Alma Hofman Park, Shark Park, 5201 Benito St. 

Bring a lawn chairs and a picnic dinner. 

Refreshments will be on sale by the Kiwanis Club. 

The series continues Tuesday with The Has Bins (classic favorites). 

Concert schedule: 

Aug. 2 - Seventh Inning Stretch (jazz/funk) 

Aug. 9 - The Cords (80s pop hits) 

Aug. 16 - The Ravelers (classic rock) 

The Splash Pad will remain open until 8 p.m. on concert nights. 

New hours for library 

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors adopted new service hours for the San Bernardino County Library System. 

In order to meet declining revenue sources, but still maintain a high level of service to various communities, some library branches will have reduced hours. 

Overall, the total reduction of service hours is less than 10 percent, system-wide. 

Effective Aug. 1, the Montclair Banch Library's new hourse: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Wednesday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and closed Sunday. 

Honda lends out helping hand 

The Guys in Blue are continuing their helpful efforts over the summer, visiting Montclair this week and lending a hand in the community. 

They handed out water to thirsty dogs, and their owners, at Pooch Park in Claremont on July 10. 

They also helped unload purchases at local shopping centers and distributed water and chapstick at the Montclair Farmer's Market on July 9. 

These are just a few, of the many ways, the Guys in Blue - who are a part of the SoCal Helpful Honda Team - are helping out around Southern California. 

This is not the first time the group has been to the area, they frequent cities in the Inland Empire weekly. 

"We'll often do charitable stuff like play with dogs at an animal shelter...," said Lauren Kay, spokeswoman for Helpful Honda. 

Find out where they'll go next on Twitter @HelpfulHonda. 

Firefighter/paramedic resigns 

Firefighter/Paramedic Nick Magallanez has resigned to accept a position with Chino Valley Independent Fire Protection District. 

His last shift with the Montclair Fire Department was on July 7. 

Magallanez first joined the city April 2002 as a fire technician. 

He accepted temporary, provisional, and part-time firefighter positions until being hired full-time in January 2006. 

Businesses participate in marketing workshop 

More than 10 local businesses participated in a free strategic marketing workshop held in the Civic Center's South Conference Room. 

The city and the Montclair Chamber of Commerce hosted the event on July, which was presented by the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Department and Supervisor Gary Ovitt. 

President of Voice Marketing Ron Stark facilitated the workshop and provided innovative and timely marketing strategies to cope with the current economic downturn. 

During the five-hour program, participants were educated: 

Developing a brand statement 

Writing a positioning statement 

Defining and understanding their target audiences 

Marketing success models 

Developing comprehensive media plans 

Tracking and analyzing the return on their investment in marketing 

By the end of the workshop, participants stated that they had a much stronger understanding of marketing plans and strategies available to better promote their businesses. 
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Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com The Montclair Walkers has celebrated its 25th anniversary, with the intent of walking another 25. 

On July 13, the group was praised by city officials for its years of dedicated service and creating a group seniors that can call each other a family. 

The current 300-member club meets three mornings per week - at 9 a.m. - at the Montclair Plaza, before it opens to shoppers for early stretching exercises then heads up to the second floor for an hour-long walk.  ]]> "You're never walking alone here," said Theresa Brutico, walker. "If you come, you'll find a friend right away." 

Brutico has been walking for 12 years with the group. 

"As you get older you need all the exercise you can get," she said. "It really keeps you going and you look forward to it - It's like you're a big family." 

The group walks around the mall wearing T-shirts, some indicating they're with the Montclair Walkers, while others say they are part of the 10-mile club. 

In 1985, a small group of seniors walked from the Montclair Civic Center to Montclair High School but it was not an organized group, according to a previous article. 

The group did this until summer. 

In 1991, the group began an incentive program for participants who walked 200 laps around the mall, which equates to 100 miles. T-shirts, fanny packs and license plate frames were awarded to Walkers that reached the milestone though many say just being part of the group is reward enough, according to a previous article. 

Leila Brown and her sister Florine Martin were honored at the anniversary celebration for being founding members of the group. 

"At one time we had 500 members, and my sister would count them when they would come into the mall," said Brown. 

Brown said the Montclair Walkers club has been a great form of exercise for many seniors, including herself. 

"I have a bad knee but I'm doing better because I walk on it, and if I didn't, it would stiffen," she said. "I also had open-heart surgery six years ago, and I think this has been very good for me." 

About 150 Walkers attended the July 13 ceremony, including Community Development Director Steve Lustro, Fire Chief Troy Ament and representatives from the offices of Rep. David Dreier, state Sen. Gloria Negrete McLeod and Montclair Plaza. 

Seniors received a picnic-style lunch from Donahoo's Golden Chicken and a strawberry and vanilla cake from Ontario Bakery. 

Entertainment included Big Band music by Ron Johnson, a slideshow, and a history of the program from inception to the present. 

Plaques were presented to key and founding members of the group, and Montclair Plaza was recognized for its support and sponsorship of the Montclair Walkers. 

In addition, Walkers who had already walked 100 miles this year received a special 100-mile T-shirt. 

Join the Montclair Walkers by calling the Senior Center at 909-625-9483. 
]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204683 2011-07-21T00:55:52Z 2011-07-26T00:56:39Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com  Three heads of local construction companies raised concerns at this week's City Council meeting over the possibility of eliminating the redevelopment agency. 

The businesses' anxiety is a result of two trailer bills that were signed by Gov. Jerry Brown in his 2011-2012 budget that would shut down a city's redevelopment agency unless the city pays a portion of its money to the state to keep it operating. 

Cities have until Oct. 1 to decide what their plan of action is. Until then any new project through the redevelopment agency - which is designed to develop or upgrade blighted areas - must be suspended.  ]]> As a result of the governor's plans, any potential activities through Montclair 's Exterior Housing Improvement Program (E-HIP) has come to a halt. 

The program is funded through the redevelopment agency and provides exterior improvements to residents who are at low- to moderate-income. 

"During the past 10 years we have improved more than 150 homes, painting them, improving landscaping, and every time we got one of these jobs it's like I took it personally, as if it was my house," said Hugo Jaramillo of Jaramillo Construction in Claremont, who's employed an average of five employees through those years. 

"Overall this program is something of good will. By taking it away that type of improvement, that these homeowners sometimes can't afford to make, will certainly be missed or needed by these homeowners," Jaramillo said. 

Cities who want to continue the agency must pass a "continuation ordinance" by Oct. 1, which would go into effect Nov.1, City Manager Edward Starr said. 

By mid-August, Starr said he expects to make a recommendation to the City Council if it should or shouldn't continue the agency. He said he would also provide the council with information on how much the city would have to disburse if they decide to continue. 

If the city decided to continue operating its agency, Starr anticipates it will have to pay about $3.6 million for the 2011-2012 year and $800,000 annually thereafter. 

Starr said what is for certain if the city does decide to continue with its agency is they cannot take on any new debt. If they do, in addition to paying their annual fee, they will have to pay 80 percent of the past-due payments to school districts. 

Currently, a portion of a city's tax increment goes to school districts through the agency. 

Enrique Alcantara of E. Alcantara Construction said if the city did away with its E-HIP program, his five to six employees would be out of work. 

"I'm hoping you guys can take that into consideration," said Alcantara, of the Montclair business. 

Albert Young of Myco Construction in Ontario said not only have the residents benefited from the beautification projects, so have the businesses. 

"We go across the street to the mom-and-pop burrito place and eat there and business who sell us their products, paint products, I mean Sherwin-Williams (in Montclair ) must get $50,000 a year of Montclair business from us buying paint," Young said. 

"Another person getting affected, as you know we have to pull permits, so we have to write checks to Montclair and we have to do that several times a month." 

Councilman Leonard Paulitz said this is one of the unintended consequences of the elimination of redevelopment agencies. 

"I think Gov. Jerry Brown was making a big mistake in shooting himself in the foot in the long run and this shows in the examples of what good our redevelopment agency is doing at this time," he said. 

"We did not abuse (the agency), we wisely spent our money to improve the community, and now this is our thank you from the state of California for doing that." 

The city's Redevelopment Agency board of directors reviews the E-HIP program on a yearly basis and authorizes an average of 50 grants each fiscal year. Since the program's inception in 1999, a total of 211 Montclair residents have received E-HIP grants, according to the city's website.]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204684 2011-07-09T00:57:29Z 2011-07-26T00:58:07Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com A new special-needs project in the city is on hold because of two state trailer bills that could determine the future of their redevelopment agency. 

Wrapped in Gov. Jerry Brown's 2011-12 fiscal budget were two bills that would shut down each city's redevelopment agency unless the city forks over a portion of its redevelopment money to the state in order to keep its agency operating. 

Under the terms of the new legislation, cities cannot enter into new agreements until they figure out whether they want their agency to go out of business or if they want to continue it, said City Manager Edward Starr.  ]]> At a City Council meeting last week, Starr pulled from the agenda a public hearing item on an agreement for a project by developers National Community Renaissance of California - at 4115 Kingsley St. - that would serve low-income residents with disabilities. 

"It is the recommendation of our legal counsel at this time that we suspend any obligations that we are not already contractually obligated to maintain," Starr said at Tuesday's meeting. 

"And since this is one of those issues that we would be entering into a new agreement, right now it is the recommendation of our legal counsel that we do not proceed." 

The project is expected to cost more than $7 million, with about $1.6 million to be provided by the city's redevelopment agency, which is designed to develop or upgrade blighted areas in a city. 

Cities electing to continue their RDA must adopt a "continuation ordinance" by Oct. 1 with an effective date of Nov. 1. 

Without a "continuation ordinance," the local redevelopment agency would be abolished on Oct. 1, with assets controlled by a successor entity until debt service is extinguished and continuing existing contractual obligations, Starr said. 

"At this time the city is weighing its options, just like any other redevelopment agency in the state," Starr said. 

The city will probably continue its RDA, but is evaluating the adverse impacts the redevelopment bills will have on local fiscal operations including the city's fiscal year 2011-12 operating budget, Starr said. 

Initial projections indicate Montclair will be ordered to forfeit about $3.6 million in 2011-12 to retain redevelopment agency operations; in future years, the annual forfeiture would be about $800,000. 

"Plus we have to make significant past-due payments to school districts and that is probably what is going to kill most redevelopment agencies throughout the state," Starr said. 

Currently a portion of a city's tax increment goes to school districts through the agency. 

However, local and California Redevelopment Association (CRA) officials argue the taking of local revenues constitutes a violation of Proposition 22 - the voter-approved 2010 initiative prohibiting the state from taking local funds for any purpose, Starr said. 

According to Starr's weekly city manager's report, the League of California Cities and CRA anticipate filing a court action in late July challenging the legality of the legislation. The action would include a request to stay implementation. 

"Obviously it is a sad state of affairs that this project - that has a high value in terms of the community it is going to serve - is now on hold because of the action of the state Legislature," said Councilman John Dutrey. 

There is a commitment to the developer as well as the City Council to see the project through, Dutrey said. 

"This is high priority for the city and I commend the developer for hanging in there with us and wanting to do this project," he said. 

Councilman Bill Ruh said the redevelopment bill was handed to cities and it was his hope advocacy groups could get together and create the type of reform they wanted, but that never happened. 

"The issue that we're facing now is, yes, the bad players will go out of business with this but so will the good ones, and we need legislation to address the bad players so they can no longer continue to do their practices," Ruh said. 

"So we will see what happens with this but it is my hope that whatever we do down the line, cities will be pro-active and come up with the reform that they believe is necessary." ]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204682 2011-07-08T00:54:49Z 2011-07-26T00:55:21Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com  City businesses will soon be able to permanently keep their promotional banners waving for 90 days a year. 

City Council members this week approved an ordinance that would relax a policy for banners and special signs to help businesses during the tough economy. 

The council temporarily changed an ordinance in 2009 to allow businesses to display the banners from 48 to 90 days per calendar year, but that policy ended June 30.  ]]> The council is expected to give final approval to the ordinance on July 18. It will take effect 30 days later. 

"I agree with this and think it is a very good way to promote and continue to promote businesses in the city," Councilman Bill Ruh said. 

"I've talked to a lot of business people who view this - in this difficult economy - as one of a few ways they have to get the word out about their business." 

The proposed ordinance will also increase the maximum size allowed for a banner based on square feet of leasable area, City Manager Edward Starr said. 

The banner size will remain at 50 square feet for a majority of commercial businesses. 

Businesses occupying 50,000 to 100,000 square feet of leasable area can have signs up to 100 square feet, Starr said. 

Those occupying an area in excess of 100,000 square feet can have banners or signs up to 200 square feet, according to a staff report. 

The only change to the temporary ordinance will be an increase to a permit fee. 

The council asked in 2009 that businesses be charged $20 per calendar year to have a banner in front of their facility. 

Businesses will now be asked that the $20 fee be applied every time a new application has been submitted - similar to a policy that existed before 2009. 

"And, obviously, going back to that past practice would have a positive impact on the city's general fund," Starr said. 

Councilman Leonard Paulitz questioned city staffers about why the proposed ordinance was not run through the Planning Commission and if the Chamber of Commerce approved it. 

Chamber officials were in agreement with the ordinance. 

The Planning Commission did not have to deal with the measure because it "was a council policy that was adopted two years ago and rather than running it through the Planning Commission at that time it was staff's decision to bring it to the council," said Steve Lustro, community development director. 

Councilman John Dutrey said he hasn't seen any businesses abuse the ordinance in the past two years. 

"I think it is important that as a city we support our local businesses here, especially small businesses in Montclair," Dutrey said. "(This) gives them the opportunity to advertise themselves so they can survive the economy."]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204676 2011-06-25T00:46:04Z 2011-07-26T00:46:41Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com Rufus Fairley loves playing the piano, and loves sharing his passion with his friends. 

At the city's Senior Spotlight on June 15, Fairley presented an "Afternoon Musical Interlude" at the Senior Center where more than 50 seniors attend the musical performance. Each month a different senior teaches a workshop on their special skill.  ]]> "I find playing the piano relaxing and addictive as an adult," said Fairley, 89. "Especially when I'd come home after working a 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 9 a.m. job - it was a way to relax and unwind." 

During Fairley's performance, seniors were treated to a plate of fresh fruit, a sandwich and sparkling apple cider. 

Senior Pat Forschler said she really enjoyed the performance. 

"I loved it, I didn't want to miss it," she said. 

Fairley played, on his keyboard, more than a dozen songs and even asked seniors to name the tune. 

Many of them recognized the songs, and more often than not the seniors broke out into a choir and would sing while Fairley played. 

He said that he played in a band when he was in high school and when he served in World War II. 

"If (the soldier and I) were ever at bar and there was a piano we would have a jam session," he said. Sign up to either be the next "Senior Spotlight" or enjoy what other seniors have to offer. 

Below is a schedule of spotlights: 

July 20 - "Learn How to Can Fruit" presented by Ruth Van Scoy 

Aug. 23 - "See the Art of Origami" presented by Rafael Landgrave 

Sept. 20 - "Chop Suey and Fried Rice" cooking class presented by Wing Lee 

All classes begin at 2 p.m. at the Senior Center, 5111 Benito St.

RSVP to 909-625-9483. After his performance many seniors shook Fairley's hand and thanked him for the afternoon performance. 

In a special surprise, the Senior Center staff surprised Fairley with a birthday cake in celebration of his 89th birthday. 

"It's all about people giving and receiving and I've received so much in my 89 years, so you have to give back," he said. ]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204675 2011-06-25T00:44:27Z 2011-07-26T00:45:44Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com Police and Fire officials compete in athletic games 

The Annual Western Police and Fire Games were played at the Ontario Convention Center and consisted of multiple events ranging from angling to water polo. 

Montclair Sgt. Matt Borra, Detective Jim Michel, and Officers Dave Taylor and Nicholas Medina teamed up to participate in "The Toughest Competitor Alive," from June 4 to 11. 

The competition incorporated eight different events - 5k run, shot put, 100 meter freestyle swim, 100 meter dash, bench press, 25-foot rope climb, pull-ups, obstacle course. 

Each team member took on two events. The team took home a third place bronze medal for its efforts. 

The Gunslingers, a women's soccer team from the San Bernardino Sheriff's Department, teamed with four Montclair Police Officers - Ashley Westall, Megan Stafford, Julleen Potts, and Amanda Holloway in a soccer competition. 

Holloway was a last-minute replacement for Officer Debbie Camou. 

The team played three matches and had a match canceled when the opposing team forfeited. 

Potts was awesome as goalie and Westall, Stafford, and Holloway displayed excellent field skills and were clearly assets to their team. 

This was an excellent team-building opportunity within our local law enforcement community. 

The players are grateful to those who supported the team by purchasing drawing tickets and to the MPOA for covering their entry fees. 

City welcomes two new police officers 

The Montclair Police Department held a general assembly of its members to welcome Officer Kyle Hurd to the police force. 

He was sworn in to duty by Deputy City Clerk Yvonne Smith on June 13. 

Hurd was born and raised in San Clemente and is a recent graduate of Golden West Police Academy. He is also the proud recipient of the Lifetime Fitness Award for his graduating class. 

Officers Jose Romero, who was sworn in to duty on May 9, and Hurd were introduced to the City Council on Monday. 

Fire employee retires after 33 years 

Last week was Fire Engineer Steven Hall's last shift with the Montclair Fire Department. 

Hall retired after 33 years of dedicated service. 

Hall began his career with the city on May 15, 1978, as an apprentice firefighter and was promoted to firefighter in October 1979. 

In January 2006, he was promoted to the rank of fire engineer. 

Hall, a certified hazardous materials specialist, represented the Montclair Fire Department on the West End Hazardous Materials Team and the San Bernardino County Hazardous Materials Responders Association. He also held many positions within the Montclair Fire Fighters Association. 

Hall lives in Fontana with his wife, Theresa, and their children, Andrew and Cathryn. ]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204677 2011-06-23T00:47:08Z 2011-07-26T00:47:30Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com Public safety and other city employees will be asked to permanently contribute to their pension benefits to help the city deal with a long-term shortfall in its bond payments. 

As a temporary relief, employees in the past two years have been asked to pay 6 percent of their membership contribution to the California Public Employees Retirement System. They will be asked again to do so for the next fiscal year, but now as a permanent contribution. 

"This is something that does need to be negotiated," said City Manager Edward Starr.  ]]> Starr said the pension contribution will help pay for the city's bond payments, which are about $1.92 million annually. 

"By doing this now we can put money away, and over time as revenue grows and the economy improves we will close the long-term structural deficit and it will no longer be an issue," he said. 

While the city has been making bond payments, long-term revenue continues to come in slowly, and the city doesn't anticipate the growth in the economy to make up for the payments immediately, Starr said. 

Starr said the city is doing this for two reasons - to help pay for the bonds and also because the public is demanding that cities reduce pension liability and cost. 

"By being pro-active at the local level it will prevent the state or voters from doing something more stringent as far as changing the way pensions are in the state," he said. 

The measure is a part of the city's 2011-12 annual budget, approved by the City Council on Monday. 

The city's operating budget is $34.1 million, with a total projected revenue of $33.6 million. 

Starr said the slight shortfall of $576,691 is related to an accounting adjustment related to the bonds. 

To help close the city's general fund portion of the operating budget, City Council members, during June 16 preliminary budget discussions, decided not to conduct a strategic planning session, which costs $15,000, for the next fiscal year and that amount was removed from the budget, Starr said. 

The preliminary budget, as presented, contained a $37,000 shortfall in general fund revenues. The shortfall will be addressed by keeping some employment positions vacant until the deficit is made up early in the fiscal year, Starr said. 

Starr said over the years the city has produced leaner and leaner budgets. 

"We do believe that this will be the last belt-tightening budget," he said. "All future (financial) growth that comes to the city after the 2011-12 fiscal year will be applied to services, the community and for supplies for any city improvements." 

Moreover, Starr said the city has not cut any services to its residents during the economic slowdown and has proposed not to reduce any services in the next fiscal year. 

Councilman John Dutrey said the city is in better shape than a lot of other cities because instead of being reactive, it has been pro-active in dealing with the budget deficit.]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204678 2011-06-18T00:48:01Z 2011-07-26T00:48:58Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com Thousands attend city festival 

About 3,000 people attended the Family Fun Festival on June 4. 

Christopher Turner, Lehigh Elementary sixth-grader, received special recognition and a ride on a fire engine for winning the theme contest, which was sponsored by the Community Action Committee. 

His winning theme, "Bringing Montclair Together," was used on all of the Family Fun Festival marketing pieces. 

City officials said their gratitude goes to everyone who volunteered their time and resources at the event, before the event and after and to the Montclair Chamber of Commerce for overseeing event sponsors and the vendor area, which which was more than 35. 

The city attributes some of the success of this event each year to the collaboration between its Administrative Services, Community Development, Public Works, Police, and Fire departments. 

Police Department participate in Special Olympics Torch Run 

Montclair Police Department employees participated in the Law Enforcement Special Olympics Torch Run on June 6. 

The Torch Run is the largest grassroots fundraising program and public awareness vehicle for 3 the Special Olympics. 

It is held each June as a prelude to the Special Olympics Southern California Summer Games. 

The Police Department has participated in this annual event for many years now. Last year the runners decided to increase the miles of the run so they could pass by City Hall. 

Sgt. Brian Ventura said the runners were overwhelmed by the applause and shouts of cheer they received from city employees and officials as they passed by the Civic Center. 

This is the first time non-sworn Police Department employees participated in the Torch Run, and this year marked 10 years of participation by Ventura. 

The runners last week were police services specialist Tina Lebron, police dispatcher Karina Gonzales, officers Shane Buschini, Ben Cypher, Ron Goble, Rod Godoy, Steve Griffin and Raul Perez and Ventura. 

Fire Department gets training in new auto-injectors 

Through the Homeland Security Grant Program the Fire Department was able to purchase DuoDote Auto-Injectors for all of the front-line and reserve fire apparatus. 

The DuoDote auto-injector is a preloaded syringe that provides a single intramuscular dose of atropine and pralidoxime chloride in a self-contained unit specifically designed for first responders. 

It is an initial treatment to counter the affects of exposure to chemical nerve agent poisonings or organophosphorus insecticide poisonings. 

All fire suppression personnel received training earlier this month on the use of these new auto-injectors. 

New bill will require homes to have carbon monoxide detectors 

Effective July 1, state Senate Bill 183 will become law requiring all homes up for sale or transfer that have fireplaces, gas stoves, gas water heaters, or attached garages to have carbon monoxide detectors. 

By the year 2013, all homes, including apartment complexes and condos, will be required to have these detectors. 

Carbon monoxide poisoning kills an average of 400 Americans per year. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that carbon monoxide poisoning sends 20,000 people to the emergency room each year. 

This "silent killer" deprives the brain of life-sustaining oxygen as the odorless gas bonds to the red blood cells faster and easier than oxygen, and the victim falls asleep and dies. 

Although this law will be hard to enforce in private residences that are not up for sale or transfer, it should make all California citizens aware of carbon monoxide poisoning hazards and encourage the use of both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in their homes. 

A variety of styles of detectors have been approved by the California Fire Marshal's Office, and they may be purchased at hardware stores. ]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204680 2011-06-11T00:50:45Z 2011-07-26T00:52:46Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com Dairy Queen/Orange Julius coming soon 

Permits for tenant improvements were obtained last week for the former Starbucks Coffee location at the southwest corner of Mission Boulevard and Ramona Avenue. 

The in-line space, which also benefits from a drive-thru, will re-open in the near future as a Dairy Queen/Orange Julius. 

The opening later this summer will represent the first location in the Inland Empire/San Gabriel Valley area outside of a mall. 

The two longest established franchises were previously located together in the Food Court at Montclair Plaza. 

Summer camp 

Montclair's summer youth programs began last week and sign ups are still being accepted. 

The two programs offered: 

Summer Day Camp Montclair , a structured day camp program held at the Montclair Youth Center for children in grades K-8. 

Camp runs for 10 weeks from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday through August 5. It includes games, field trips, arts and crafts, special events, swimming, sports, and movies. 

Cost: $125 for a two-week session with additional attendance/fee plans available. 

Summer Day Camp is limited to 40 participants. 

Montclair Day Program, a "drop-in" camp program, is held at Vernon Middle School through July 22 and the Recreation facility from July 25 through August 5 for children in grades K-8. 

The program runs for 10 weeks from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and includes sports, arts and crafts, table games, field trips and special events. 

Cost: $10 a week, in addition to a $10 start-up fee that includes a program T-shirt. 

The field trips are available for an additional fee. 

Registration for both programs is ongoing throughout the summer. 

Programs are open to children who live in Montclair, attend a Montclair school, or have a parent/guardian who works in Montclair, proof required. 

Summer Camp Montclair sign-ups are taken at the Recreation facility, and sign-ups for the Montclair Day Program are taken at Vernon Middle School. 

175 attend memorial Memorial Day service 

About 175 people attended the Community Action Committee's Memorial Day Program, held at the Civic Center in Memorial Garden. 

Mayor Paul Eaton, and council members Carolyn Raft, John Dutrey and Bill Ruh, and City Manager Ed Starr attended the event on May 30. 

The annual event featured the dedication of five new plaques on the Veterans' Memorial. 

Also present were Assemblywoman Norma Torres, D-Chino, San Bernardino County Supervisor Gary Ovitt, and a representative from the office of Sen. Gloria Negrete McLeod, D- Montclair . 

The program included a special display of military items from the Planes of Fames Museum in Chino. 

Special thanks for assistance went to the Montclair Fire Department, the Montclair Information Technology Division, the Montclair High School JROTC, the Montclair Works Department, and the Montclair Walker's Choral Group. 

Middle schools compete in basketball game 

Basketball teams from the After-School Programs at Serrano and Vernon Middle schools played their first "Hoop Down At The Playground" game in the Community Center gymnasium on May 18. 

Spectators were treated to a Hot Shot and Trick Shot Contest by students from both teams. There was also a Learning Coordinator shoot-out, which was won by Learning Coordinator Ian Austin. 

Each team played competitively, with Serrano winning, 38-27. 

Special thanks went to Learning Coordinators Darrell Hickey and Ian Austin for running the event, Learning Leader referees Warren Johnson and Antonio Manocchi, and the After-School Program staff for giving students the opportunity to participate as athletes, scorekeepers, photographers, and snack bar helpers. 

Police program results in multiple traffic violations 

A number of violations were issued late last month by the Police Department. 

The department's Click It or Ticket Program resulted in 14 seat belt violation citations, and an additional 29 citations were issued for traffic violations. 

The program was held on May 28. 

City fire train with Los Angeles fire 

All on-duty fire suppression personnel participated in apparatus and operational familiarization training on May 22. 

The training was with the Los Angeles County Fire personnel from Station 183, including Battalion 15 of Pomona. 

The crews reviewed operational procedures focusing on equipment and radio communications. 

Los Angeles County Fire utilizes different types of equipment and radio frequencies than Montclair . Because of automatic-aid agreements for freeway and structure-fire responses, Los Angeles fire units respond into Montclair , and Montclair units respond into Pomona and Claremont. 

This training is imperative for fire personnel from both agencies to become familiar with each agency's operations. 
]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204679 2011-06-04T00:49:19Z 2011-07-26T00:49:56Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com What was once an area that residents complained about for its crime is now a place where children play freely and where families have barbecues. 

City and National Community Renaissance of California officials have welcomed a low-income, multi-family housing development at the corner of Kingsley Street and Mills Avenue. 

The project - the third of its kind by the developers - cost about $16.5 million. 

The Montclair Redevelopment Agency provided a loan of $4.3 million.  ]]> "This area was a blight and it came with issues and problems..., " Councilman John Dutrey said at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday. 

"This is one example that redevelopment agencies are important to a city." 

Redevelopment agencies are on Gov. Jerry Brown's chopping block as he tries to deal with the state's budget shortfalls. The Montclair agency's resources are designed to develop or upgrade areas in the city. 

Designed by Onyx Architects, the three-story 50-unit complex called Vista del Cielo - which is at 10319 Mills Ave. - includes a learning center with after-school programs, laundry care center, Energy Star appliances, a pool, patios, onsite management and an outdoor playground. 

National CORE officials said city officials were pro-active instead of disregarding residents complaints about the area. 

"They said we're really going to invest smart and invest in the community," said Alfredo Izmajtovich, vice president of acquisitions for National CORE. 

Rents range from about $468 to $877 for a two-bedroom unit and $488 to $975 for a three-bedroom. 

There is a single one-bedroom unit in the development. 

The complex is currently fully occupied. 

"For me, a single parent of three boys, this is really great," said Arlene Lopez, 30. "I lived in a two-bedroom apartment with higher rent and this is three bedrooms and it's more convenient for me, comfortable and relaxing." 

The 85-unit San Marino senior apartments on Mills Avenue is behind Behind Vista del Cielo. Toward the southeast is San Antonio Vista, a 75-unit family development on Pradera Avenue. 

The proximity of the developments allows for efficiencies in management, maintenance and services. 

A fourth development by National CORE is in the works at 4115 Kingsley St. and will serve low-income residents with disabilities. 

All of the complexes are part of the San Antonio Gateway project area designed for affordable housing.]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204674 2011-05-31T00:43:06Z 2011-07-26T00:43:54Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com A number of speed limits could increase around the city in a month. 

City Council members approved a proposed ordinance at a meeting this month that could increase the miles per hour allowed after conducting an engineering and traffic survey. 

A total of 128 test areas were used with speeds checked on more than 10,000 vehicles, according to a staff report. 
]]> "The speed survey must be done when traffic is free flowing," City Engineer Mike Hudson said. "You don't go out there in the middle of the day when traffic is bumper-to-bumper on some streets or you're only able to go 25 miles per hour." 

After a second reading of the ordinance at the June 6 City Council meeting, the online Montclair Municipal Code will be updated to include the new law, which will be in effect 30 days after passage. 

The study was conducted between September and March. 

Radar speed checks were performed by Montclair  Police Department personnel. 

The results of the speed survey were tabulated and analyzed by the engineering division staff, according to a staff report. 

Based on the traffic engineering speed surveys and analysis, several speed limits in the city will be increased, according to the staff report. 

Most of the speed limits will increase by 5 miles per hour. 

Streets proposed to be affected: Brooks, Moreno, Orchard, Palo Verde and State streets; Benson, Fremont, Mills, Monte Vista and Ramona avenues as well as Mission Boulevard. 

At the May 16 council meeting, Hudson said the city has not done an inventory of how many signs have to be replaced, but he assumes officials will be changing a sign about every half-mile. 

As a cost-saving measure, Mayor Paul Eaton asked if a whole sign needs to be replaced or if a single number could be changed. 

Hudson said officials will probably take down the whole sign and put up a new one. 

Changing the speed limits on various streets in the city would require replacement of signs and replacing of legends. The cost is expected to be about $5,000 and is presently included in the Public Works 2011-12 preliminary budget, according to a staff report.]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204673 2011-05-31T00:42:14Z 2011-07-26T00:42:49Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com  The City Council has approved design plans for an 18-unit development for residents who have physical disabilities and low incomes. 

The project - which is the first of its kind in the city - will be at 4115 Kingsley St., at the corner of Pradera Avenue. 

Developers National Community Renaissance has teamed with United Cerebral Palsy of Los Angeles to provide services in the complex that will allow residents to live independently.  ]]> "United Cerebral Palsy has about 20 types of these developments the Los Angeles regions, but to our knowledge, this is one of the first, if not the first, to be done like this in the Inland Valley," said Alfredo Izmajtovich, vice president of acquisitions for National CORE. 

The project, which is on a site that is less than half an acre, is part of the city's Holt Boulevard Specific Plan, according to a staff report. 

The design plans, which were approved by the council earlier this month, include details on the site, floor, elevations, colors as well as what materials will be used, according to a staff report. 

Councilman Bill Ruh said this project will fulfill a need that is currently not being met in the city. 

"I think when you look at the architectural value of this, it's really transforming that area," Ruh said. "This will add to our community in a tremendous way. 

"Many of these individuals who may be working may be at an income level that wouldn't afford them marketplace housing." 

Councilman John Dutrey said the project is unique because it is for a special group that isn't normally served. 

"Most of the affordable housing projects are for seniors or for families," Dutrey said. 

The two-story, L-shaped, apartment building will be handicapped accessible and adaptable. It also will have additional safety features, such as an elevator that would provide access to second floor units, according to a staff report. 

"The idea for these units is for someone who can function with assistance, and it gives them the empowerment to live independently," Izmajtovich said. 

Developers said the project is expected to cost more than $7 million. 

About $1.6 million will be provided by the city's Redevelopment Agency. 

Councilman Leonard Paulitz said he fears that if Gov. Jerry Brown's proposal to abolish redevelopment agencies to address the state's budget crisis is approved then affordable housing for senior citizens, families or people who are handicapped will stop. 

"The majority of redevelopment agencies in this state does good and does it right, and they should reform those who aren't," Paulitz said. "I commend the redevelopment agency for doing this, on the other hand, if the governor had his way, these kinds of things would stop." 

The development agreement between National CORE and the city still needs to be approved by City Council. 

"We're nearing the completion of the agreements, and hopefully they'll be going back to the city within the next 60 days," Izmajtovich said.]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204671 2011-05-28T00:38:58Z 2011-07-26T00:40:15Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com Montclair Human Services Division is trying to help low-income seniors receive free food through their Food Commodity Program. 

At 10 a.m. every third Thursday of the month city residents - with proof of income and residency - are welcome to participate in the program that is coordinated with the Community Services Department of San Bernardino County. 

"After doing this for so long you get to know some of these people, and they are so wonderful, you know - being poor is not a crime," said Ester Vargas-Pipersky, senior program specialist.  ]]> Commodities to be given may include canned meat, canned vegetables, flour, corn meal, peanut butter, butter, and juices. 

The city has been providing the services for more than 25 years to residents who must be 18 years of age and older. 

Vargas-Pipersky said when she started working in the program 20 years ago, the city was serving more than 200 households, then the economy started doing well and that number dropped to about 140. 

But then, slowly, the number of families in need started to increase. 

The Human Services Division provides free food commodities to qualified Montclair residents at 10 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month at the Community Center, 5111 Benito St. 

Information: 909-625-9483. 

"We're now up to 191 households," Vargas-Pipersky said. "We can still provide more food to families but we're not getting enough resources. We're turning people away. The need is so great." 

The program is conducted in the city's Community Center, next to the Senior Center at 5111 Benito St. 

"We start distributing at 10 a.m. but people would start a line at about 7:30 a.m., they would even stand outside," Vargas-Pipersky said. "We really do wish we could give them more, but we do the best we can." 

Vargas-Pipersky said volunteers of the program also sets aside bags for residents at Robert Townsend Senior Housing and for residents who have called to say they have a doctor appointment or another issue and cannot make it to the Community Center. 

At a recent distribution on May 19, Stanley Ar valo waited patiently to receive his bags of food. 

The 58-year-old Montclair resident has benefited by the program three times. 

"It helps my family out a lot," he said. "My brother is disabled and my mom is 88 years old. If we didn't have this, I'd would try to seek help somewhere else." 

In his bags, Ar valo received frozen pork patties, canned beef, green beans, corn, apple juice, fruit cups and vegetarian beans. 

"All we have to do now is buy some eggs, and we'll have a nice breakfast," he said. ]]> tag:www.insidesocal.com,2011:/montclairnow//459.204670 2011-05-28T00:34:01Z 2011-07-26T00:38:22Z

Canan Tasci http://dailybulletin.com Memorial Day program 

The Community Action Committee will sponsor its annual Memorial Day program on Monday. 

The community is welcome to the City Hall Memorial Garden at 6 p.m. at 5111 Benito St. 

The dedication of five new plaques to the Veteran's Memorial will be featured. The Veteran's Memorial is a tribute to deceased Montclair veterans from all branches of service whose families have purchased plaques in their memory. 

The free event will also include a presentation of colors by the Montclair High School ROTC, patriotic music performed by the Montclair Walker's Choral Group, refreshments, and readings. 

Family Fun festival 

Mark your calendar for the city's annual Family Fun Festival on June 4. 

It will be held at Alma Hofman Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 5201 Benito St. 

This year's event, themed "Bringing Montclair Together" will feature new carnival rides and games for the kids, a DJ, Tommy's Burgers, Disc Dogs, a BMX demonstration, a skateboarding competition, food vendors, community organizations, and much more. 

Employees interested in volunteering at the event are asked to contact Volunteer Coordinator Hue Nguyen at 909-625-9484 or volunteer@cityofmontclair.org. 

Students learn about firefighters 

This month, children enrolled in the Montclair Mini-School program participated in Community Heroes Month. 

Police Officer Amanda Holloway visited the children and read a book about strangers and safety. Also, she told them about all of the items police officers use as part of their job, and she allowed the students to explore a police vehicle. 

Two fire crews from Station 1 taught the children how to "Stop, Drop, and Roll" and what to do during a fire. 

They also showed the children the different tools on their fire engine. At the end of the visit, students got to be honorary firefighters as they watered down a building and watched the sirens flash as their heroes drove off to answer a call. 

Student is recognized for volunteering at local clinic 

Montclair Medical Clinic volunteer Erick Velasquez was recognized as a runner-up for Rep. David Dreier's Youth Volunteer Award at an awards ceremony held in Monrovia. 

Medical Clinic Coordinator Kay Fangerow and Volunteer Coordinator Hue Nguyen attended the ceremony on May 17. 

For the past seven months, Erick, a Montclair resident and honors student at Bonita High School, has been a dedicated volunteer at the Medical Clinic. 

He also volunteers his time at Casa Colina Rehabilitation Hospital. 

Police officers get recognized for hours of service 

The Police Department honored its Reserve Officers earlier this month with an awards ceremony and reception. 

Mayor Paul and his wife Ginger Eaton, along with council members Carolyn Raft, Leonard Paulitz, and City Manager Ed Starr attended to show their support the dedicated volunteers at the May 14 ceremony. 

The volunteers also, by the way, all have full-time jobs elsewhere, yet they volunteer a minimum of 25 hours per month to the Police Department. 

The 2010 Reserve of the Year award went to Reserve Officer Joe Kuskie who was also presented with a special award for donating more than 1,000 hours of his time in 2010 alone. 

Outstanding Police Work awards went to Reserve Cpt. Ron Foss and Reserve Officer Keith Dow for apprehending burglary suspects in 2010. 

Foss also received a special plaque for volunteering more than 30 years of service to the department. 

Police employees of the year recognized 

Police Receptionist Gina Davis was selected as the recipient for the annual Achievement Award at the annual Montclair Police Department Recognition Luncheon, sponsored by the Montclair Chamber of Commerce. 

The event on May 18 was held at the Police Department. 

Davis was selected by a committee of past recipients who reviewed the nominations and voted based on criteria submitted by her peers. 

Davis does an exemplary job of representing the department as receptionist, according to City Manager Ed Starr. 

In addition to her professional work, Davis has been a loyal and dedicated volunteer for the American Cancer Society for the past four years. She has taken an active role in making Relay for Life of Montclair a success and has dedicated herself to the mission of the American Cancer Society, Starr said. 

Sgt. Brian Ventura discussed the process taken by the Sergeants when selecting the Officer of the Year before announcing why they selected Officer Raul Perez for the 2010 honor. 

The Officer of the Year award is presented to model officers who are dedicated to the community, self-motivated, they recognize and address crime problems, thereby creating a safer city and they are inspiring to other officers in combating crime. 

Perez and Davis were presented certificates of recognition by Mayor Paul Eaton as well as by multiple state and local representatives. 

Chief Keith Jones took the podium briefly to commend all of the Montclair police employees. He stated that having an advanced formalized education has become the norm for the department's men and women in blue. 

Currently two officers are working towards receiving their doctorates, and others are pursuing bachelor's and master's degrees. 

Jones said the sergeants are all well-seasoned officers who have a vast amount of law enforcement experience and receive advanced supervisory training. He said he considers the sergeants "the tip of the spear" in fighting crime in the city. 

They are the shift supervisors who guide the officers by educating, mentoring, training, encouragement, and setting the example. He added they are the backbone of the organization in making the community safe. 

Three lifesaving awards were presented by Sgt. Matt Borra to officers Rob Pipersky and Shane Buschini and Senior Program Specialist Ester Vargas Pipersky. 

All three were involved in saving the life of a 93-year-old volunteer last month by administering CPR. The heart attack victim recovered briefly at Doctor's Hospital, and she was able to meet with her family members before passing away 48 hours later. 

Fire personnel received wildland fire safety 

Last week, Fire Division Chief Pat McCutcheon presented wildland fire safety training to fire suppression personnel. 

This refresher training must be completed annually to maintain certification for positions recognized by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group. 

McCutcheon focused on the upcoming fire season outlook, structure protection, thermo-gel task force, fire shelters, entrapment avoidance, and the National Fallen Firefighters Association's "Everyone Goes Home" program.  ]]>