February 2009 Archives

Good luck on your exam

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So it was brought to my attention today that the Ontario Convention Center was going to be brimming with future lawyers. Today (Tuesday) was the first day of the California State Bar Examination, the exams will go through Thursday.
I will follow in the steps of one of the hotels near the convention (which had the message on their sign) and say "good luck on the bar exam."

BBQ for homeless

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I received an e-mail about this local group requesting the communities help in putting together a BBQ for those who are homeless.
"Church Without Walls," is being facilitated by Michelle Zakharov.  She said this is a great opportunity for Girl and Boy Scout Troupes, Caring or Life Groups, Churches, Women's Organizations to lend a hand. If they are interested, Zakharov suggests they e-mail her: 
the.zakharov.3@gmail.com

If you are interested in serving with us on the day of the project, you will need to sign up at the CBC website under Church Without Walls.  
https://www.findcommunity.com/index.cfm/pageid/1084/index.html

Here are the basics:

CHURCH WITHOUT WALLS PROJECT 
TENT CITY BBQ AND OUTREACH
San Antonio and "D" Street Park
MARCH 14, 2009
12:00 Noon


Teams Needed:

Food Service Team - This team will assist in preparing and serving the food.  We will also need a couple of people available to assist homeless taking their food to a spot to eat (their hands get quite full and they have difficulty carrying everything.)  We will need about 10-15 people on-hand to help.

Evangelism Team - This team will be responsible to praying over the event and being present to talk to the residents.  We will have brochures and/or small bibles available for those that are interested in receiving one.  The members of this team will also be responsible for recording first names of those who are receiving meals and recording any prayer requests they may have.  We will need about 5-10 people on this team.

Give-Away Team - This team will be responsible for giving away the extra items that we have collected.  This is a good job for those who are not able to stand for long periods of time and would rather sit.  We will need about 4 or 5 people on this team.

Donations/ Collections:
We are looking for small groups or other individuals/churches that are interested in either donating food or collecting particular items for the give-aways.

These are the things we are collecting:

1.    Jars of Peanut Butter (100 or what we can get)
2.    Assembled Peanut Butter/Jelly sandwiches in sandwich bags ready to give out.
3.    Chickens
4.    Soft fruit (strawberries, grapes, bananas, oranges)
5.    Instant coffee bags (200)
6.    Juice boxes (100)
7.    200 water bottles
8.    200 Hamburger buns
9.    150 hot dogs and buns
10.    200 chips
11.    Tarps or painters plastic tarping
12.    Pop-top canned food items: such as, Fruit, Progresso soup, vienna sausages, tuna/cracker combos.
13.    Beanie caps (200)
14.    Socks (200)
15.    Toiletries (200 or what we can get) such as, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deoderant.   
16.    Underwear (Mens M/L and Womens M/L)
17.    Flashlights and batteries (what we can get)
18.    Blankets (200 or what we can get)
19.    Plastic shopping bags (as many as possible)
20.    Children's toys (what we can get)
21.    200 3-compartment to-go containers
22.    250 utensil packets with napkins
23.    Condiment packs (ketchup, mustard, mayo)
24.    300-400 homemade baked goods (rice crispy treats, cookies, etc.)

Tiny Tot Olympics

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Registration is being taken for the 22nd annual Tot Olympics.  This Olympic-style event includes running, jumping, kicking and throwing for ages 3-6 years old.  Awards will be given to all children for each event.  Fee includes a T-shirt, ribbons, memory photo frame and refreshments.  Registration is limited.  Sing up early at the Armstrong Center located at 1265 South Palmetto Avenue.  Registration is also being taken at De Anza Community Center located at 1405 South Fern Avenue, or register online @ www.ci.ontario.ca.us

WHERE:      De Anza Community & Teen Center

                      1405 South Fern Avenue

WHEN:         Saturday, March 7, 2009

TIME:            Check-in 9:30 a.m.  Event begins @ 10:00 a.m.

COST:            $15 per person ($19.00 non residents)

Information (909)395-2020

Rev Jonathon Edwards and other members of Bethel United Church of Christ, Ontario will be offering short prayers and the imposition of ashes to any and all who want it near the Upland Metrolink station. The imposition of the ashes is done on the first day of Lent.
The ministry will be offering ashes from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., rain or shine.
For information: (909) 984-9111.
Kara Lubin is walking away from teaching to focus on something else. Walking.
Lubin, a teacher for Corono-Norco Unified School District said she is taking a leave of absence so that she can manage The 100-Mile Club.
The non profit organization is a physical fitness and life skills project will encourage students to run or walk 100 mils in a single school year.
On March 14, the club will be holding their 2nd annual Walk for Kids fundraiser which raises funds for The 100 Mile Club® and participating chapters for 2009-10 year.
Lubin tells me that Colony High School and Creek View Elementary School are participating in The 100 Mile Club as well the Walk for Kids fundraiser.
Also, if you tune into Time Warner channel which host CNN Headline News from March 13- 14 you will see a segment about the organization. It will run 24 and 54 after the hour in LA, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.
The fundraiser will be held at Cesar Chavez Elementary School, 1150 Paseo Grande, in Corona.
For information visit www.100mileclub.com

Learning to use a computer

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Chances are, if you're reading my blog online then this doesn't apply to you but there are still people, young and old, who have problems navigating through a computer.
Starting on Thursday, the Ontario Main Library will be holding a four part series: Introduction to Computers.
The free classes are open to residents 18 years or older.
The first class will be Thursday from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Main Library. The next class is scheduled for April 29 and it will focus on the Internet. The following sessions with focus on Word and Excel.
For information: (909) 395-2205

It's that time of the year

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March is coming up and that can only mean one thing.
Not March Madness but rather Girls Scout cookies.
If you head to your local grocery store on March 6, you should be on the look out for the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council tempting you with their selections of cookies.
For cookie booth locations and more information about Girl Scouting, visit www.gssgc.org.

Here is a release I received from the city:


Councilmember Alan D. Wapner has been selected to serve on the National League of Cities (NLC) Public Safety and Crime Prevention Committee. Wapner, along with the 40 other committee members, will help develop policy positions that serve as a basis for the NLC's federal advocacy efforts.

"Public Safety is a critical component of our long term plan for Ontario. By serving on this committee, I will help shape the future of our community by creating policies that improve the quality of life for all cities," said Wapner.

Councilmember Wapner has been a member of the Ontario City Council for over 14 years. Prior to his election to the City Council, Councilmember Wapner was the Vice President of the Ontario-Montclair School Board. After graduating law school, Wapner became a police officer and retired as a sergeant from the Ontario Police Department in 1998. He then became an active and successful small business owner.

The National League of Cities was founded in December 1924 by 10 state municipal leagues that saw the need for a national organization to strengthen local government.  Established initially as the American Municipal Association, it was an organization comprised only of state municipal leagues, whose purpose was to collect and exchange information about urban affairs that would help state organizations promote approved methods of municipal government.

Today, more than 1,600 cities, towns, and villages of all sizes are NLC members and another 18,000 communities participate through their state municipal leagues.   Local elected leaders have an opportunity to shape the priorities, policies, and advocacy positions of the organization.  

Magna Showcase

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Show off your manga artwork and watch an anime movie on Wednesday, March 18 from 3 - 4:30pm, at Colony High Branch Library.
Pre-registration is required. The event is open for ages 13 - 18. 
Western Little League in Southwest Ontario will be holding their opening day of the baseball season on March 14 at 8 a.m. The league which holds games at Homer Briggs Memorial Park are inviting the community to come out for the game. If there are any questions or would like to sponsor the team they can call vice president Rudy at (909) 212-9200
I have received several phone calls and e-mails about several young ladies who have been accepted to compete in this weekend's Nationals' 2009 Miss Teen Pasadena pageant which will be held this weekend. 
If one of the girls were to win the title she would represent Pasadena and the surrounding communities at the Cities of America National Competition that will take place in Orlando, Florida

Below is a list of the young ladies:

Andrea Rodriguez, 17, will be competing in the Miss Teen division with ladies between the ages of 7 and 19. Andrea of Ontario is a senior at St. Lucy's Priory High School in Glendora.

Nikita Martin of Rancho Cucamonga will be competing in the Miss Teen division with ladies between the ages of 7 and 19.

Mandi Marquez, 12, will be competing in the Miss Pre-Teen division. Mandi attends Grace Yokley Middle School said she is participating in this pageant to get experience and hopefully go on to other pageants with more confidence and knowledge. Mandi has been a member of the Girl Scouts for 8 years and has received a Bronze Award for community service.

Jordan Lara of Ontario will be competing in the Miss Pre-Teen division.

Jorden Bowe-Mcleod of Upland will be competing in the Miss Pre-Teen division.

Sade Delgado of Ontario will be competing in the Miss Jr. Teen division.

Karla Perez of Ontario will be competing in the Miss Jr Teen division.

Love for Lexi in Montclair

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Love for Lexi is a benefit ride and cruise for 3 -year-old Alexis Saucedo who has a brain tumor. The fundraiser will be held on Saturday and will start at the Pomona Valley Harley Davidson in Montclair and will end at Original Mikes in Santa Ana.
Donations will be collected and tickets will be on sale Feb 18 from 5 - 8 p.m. at the Straw Hat Pizza in Chino, 12552 Central Avenue
Registration for the event begins at  9 a.m. and will go on until the event starts at 1 p.m. and untill 6 p.m.
Cost is $30 per person and will include lunch and and entry into raffle for LCD Flat Screen TV.
Pomona valley Harley Davidson, 8710 Central in Montclair.
For information: loveforlexi@hotmail.com or call (909) 229-4726 or 292-7664.

Goings on at Redemeer Church

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Contemporary Christian songwriter and musician, Jeff Rohlwing will be giving a free performance  at Redeemer Lutheran Church on Thursday March 5 at 6:30 p.m.. He will have CD's available for purchase and there will be a door offering taken that evening. For more information call Shelly at 909-986-2615 ext 105. Visit his website at www.jeffrohlwing.com to take a listen to some of his awesome music!

 Redeemer Lutheran Christian School will be having their annual Open House on March 8. The community is invited to attend this fun filled day. This is an opportunity for families in the community to come and see what the school is all about.

Everyone is invited to attend the 10:30 worship service and hear all the students sing, t potluck meal will start around noon, a silent raffle/auction will follow at 1 p.m.

All of our staff will be on hand to answer questions throughout the day, and the classrooms will be open to see some of what the children do here at our school. Air One radio station will be here also with special surprises. For more information contact Tammi at (909) 986-6510 ext 101 or visit our websitewww.redeemer4me.com.

On Friday, March 13 the  Museum of History and Art Ontario will be holding an Interactive Family Program using Starlab in connection to their newest exhibit. The museum is currently holding "Lewis and Clark Revisited: A trail in Modern Day," an exhibit which explores the historic expedition of Lewis and Clark through the lens of photographer Greg MacGregor.
The activities on that day will include the opportunity to create a Native American parfleche decorated with geographic symbols.
The event is co sponsored by the Ontario City Library. The two sessions will be from 5 to 5:50 p.m. and 6 - 6:50 p.m.
Space is limited and reservations is required: (909) 983-3198.
The Museum of History and Art, Ontario is located at 225 South Euclid Avenue, Ontario.
From the city council agenda.
It has been the City Council's practice after elections to evaluate the City Manager and establish new Goals and Objectives upon which he will be evaluated in the future. 
The Mayor and Council have recently completed that process with the City Manager. The Council has then publicly presented those Goals and Objectives for public input before adopting them as their own.
At the session with the City Manager, the City Council provided very clear direction that the sole goal for the City Manager for the coming year is to be addressing the effects of the global financial crisis on the City's finances and the economy of the community. 
The Council further directed that the existing Goals and Objectives be pared down to just the goals and that they be addressed within this context. These are both reflected on the attachment.
It is being recommended that the City Council adopt the attached Council's City Goals for 2009 and 2010 in order to provide the City Manager and Staff guidance in allocating resources, developing the budget and creating programs.

If its corned beef you crave then join the fire fighters from Ontario Local 1430 on St. Patrick's Day at the El Torito in Ontario.
Fire fighters will be greeting and serving customers in an effort to raise money and awareness for Steven's Hope for Children, an organization that provides housing and other services to the families of seriously ill or injured children. 
This year, you can even get in early and have a special St. Pat's breakfast for $10 per person from 7 AM to 11 AM. 
Lunch is served from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature the El Torito's buffet plus  corned beef , cabbage and potatoes! 
Beginning at 3 p.m. the buffet will continue,at a price of $25 per person (including a soft drink, tax and tip plus a little something for Steven's Hope). 
All sponsors will receive the St. Pat's Buffet. Additional dinners are $25.00 per person and kids 12 and under are half price! 
In traditional St Patty's day fashion there will be green beer, bagpipes, leprechauns. 
For reservations, call -- El Torito Restaurant (909)-944-9102
For Event Information call -- Captain Marty Perez (760) 285-5441 or
Captain Mike Pelletier (909) 229-3333
At Tuesday's council meeting Oliver McMillan LLC is proposing a Master Interpretative Plan to establish guidelines for the integration of significant site features into the streetscape and landscape design for two areas of the Guasti Plaza Specific Plan.
The Guasti Plaza Specific Plan Final Environmental Impact Report requires City staff approval of an on-site interpretative program and Council approval for plans of an on-site enclosed museum to depict the heritage of the Guasti winery community and its relationship to the growth and development of the local community.
The goals of this Plan are to: 
- explain historical significance of the historic winery community to visitors;
- identify four zones of the site (vineyards, wine, brandy, and port manufacturing, Mansion and the worker's living area)
- identify significant individuals, innovations in wine production, and products produced on site.
The council meets Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at 303 E. B Street, Ontario.
-liset.marquez@inlandnewspapers.com

The City Council and the Planning Commission will hold a special meeting on Wednesday to discussion the city's revised general plan called "Ontario Plan: A framework for the future".
At the meeting the council and commission will receive a presentation on the plan. After discussion the council is expected to provide staff with direction on the plan.
The special meeting will have an earlier start than council meetings, at 4 p.m. and will be held in Room 200 A,B, and C at the Ontario Convention Center.
One of the component's the proposed general plan update, which has been criticized by residents, would allow for two neighborhoods to have a mixed-use of residential plus industrial as well as commercial use.
The neighborhoods identified for the change in the general plan are one that surrounds Bon View Park - between Mission Boulevard and Woodlawn Street, east of Campus Avenue and west of Greenwood Avenue - and another between Cypress and Sultana avenues as well as between Mission Boulevard and State Street. More than 700 homes would be affected by the overlay.
Ontario Convention Center is located at 2000 Convention Center Way.
-liset.marquez@inlandnewspapers.com


The city council Tuesday will consider an ordinance which will assist developers, land owners and business owners in the economic slowdown.
If approved by the council, the ordinance would grant a one year time extension to all Development Plan, Conditional Use Permit and Variance approvals which are due to expire on or before March 1, 2010.
During the Jan. 20 meeting, the City Council directed staff to review the impacts of the current recession on development and land use applications within the City and make recommendations that might assist developers, land owners and business owners through this economic slowdown.
In the report to the council, "the current slowdown in the economy, developers and land/business owners face the prospect of having their Development Plan, Conditional Use Permit and Variance approvals expire before they can obtain financing for their projects."
A total of 95 applications would be affected by the granting of a one-time, one (1) year time extension including 48 Development Plans, 39 Conditional Use Permits and 8 Variances.
-liset.marquez@inlandnewspapers.com


Ontario woman in the news

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It came to my attention that an Ontario woman was featured in an article about layoffs. Below the is a portion of the story and the link to the MSN web site where it is published.

"By Allison Linn
Senior writer
msnbc.com
updated 8:03 a.m. PT, Fri., Feb. 13, 2009


The morning after she lost her job, Patty Powers expected to wake up with that feeling of dread you get when you realize that something bad has happened, like a death in the family.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29140917/ -- ontario woman

Under the direction of J. Todd Harper, the University of La Verne Chamber Singers will be performing in the 55th Season of the Inland Empire Community Concert Association at Gardiner Spring Auditorium.

The vocal ensemble will be performing on March 29,  at 2:30 p.m. at the Gardiner Spring Auditorium, 1245 North Euclid Avenue, Ontario.

For more information contact Jennifer at (909) 463-4534 or visit www.inlandconcerts.org

I want to invite you to experience a first-of-its-kind mobile furniture show that is coming to the local area Feb. 21-22 - similar to a car show but with furniture. The Lane Home Entertainment Tour is a massive 18-wheeler mobile showroom that highlights three complete home entertainment room solutions.
You will see visitors: 

* Trying out new product innovations from Lane Home Furnishings
* Viewing the furniture collection of America's favorite reality TV
family, Jon and Kate Gosselin
* Enjoying a variety of games, contests and prizes and entering to win
$2,000 worth of furniture
* Utilizing a first-of-its-kind hand-held survey to decipher furniture
preferences for both he and she
* Receiving a list of solutions that meets the needs of the family and
can be purchased immediately based on their on-site survey results


Joe Lyons, General Sales Manager for KSPA, AM Radio, has been elected President of Friends of the Ontario Airport. He said, "I am looking forward to the informative programs we will have this year."
The Friends is a unique support group for the Ontario Airport, established in 1963.
Other officers are Sandy Fornay, Impressions Catering, Treasurer; Dale Smith, USO/Ontario; Doug Neely, Chairman of the Board. Joy Adkins Member at Large. The Friends bi-monthly meetings will be at the Airport's new administration headquarters, located on the south side of the airport, off Mission Blvd at Vineyard and across the railroad tracks. The next meeting is at 4 p.m. at 1923 Avion Street. 
Visitors welcome.

List of public purposes

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Below is a list of the defined public purposes by the Fair Political Practices Commission which will allow the council to receive for tickets at the arena.

Public Purpose
-promotes local and regional businesses, economic development and tourism activities in the city
-promotes city-controlled or sponsored events
-promotes community programs and resources available to city residents, including non profit organizations
-marketing promotions highlighting the achievements of local and residents and businesses
-promotes and market private facilities available for City resident use, including charitable and non profit facilities.
-promote public facilities available for City resident use
-promotes city growth and development, including economic development and job creation opportunities
-promote city landmarks and or community events
-exchange programs with foreign officials and dignitaries
-promotes city recognition, visibility, and.or profile on a local, state, national or worldwide scale.
-promotes open government by public official appearances, participation and/or availability at business or community events
-sponsorship agreements involving private events where the city specifically seeks to enhance the city's reputation both locally and regionally by serving as hosts providing the necessary opportunities to meet and greet visitors, dignitaries,  and residents
-all written contracts where they city as a form of consideration has required that a certain number of tickets or suites be made available for city use
-employment retention programs
-special outreach programs for veterans, teachers, emergency services, medical personnel and other civil service occupations.
-spouses of or immediate dependants of public officials in order to accompany him or her to any of the items listed above
-any purpose similar to  above included in any city contract

Knights of Columbus, Ontario Council #3672, will once again host its annual Lenten fish fry on Fridays, starting Feb.27th running through April 3rd. The fish fries will be held at two locations from 5-7pm: St. George Catholic Church, 505 N. Palm Ave., Ontario and St. Joseph Catholic Church, 877 N. Campus Ave., Upland. Costs are $4.50 for child's plate, $7 for adults and $8.50 for a super plate. Clam chowder, beverages and desserts will also be available for purchase.
Information: (909) 268-3566

Lucky Friday?

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Paraskavedekatriaphobia.
According to Wikipedia, that is the word used to describe the fear of Friday the 13th.
So I know there are some of you out there who are superstitous and are probably not excited about Friday the 13th, which is often looked at a day of bad luck.
I have found something that might turn it all around.
I was walking into the new starbucks on Vineyard Avenue near the intersection of Holt Boulevard. On the door was this white sign announcing the coffee chain's grand opening on Friday from 6 - 8 p.m.
When I got in I asked the girls what was going to be going on. The girl making my coffee told me there was going to be a live band, as well as some samples for customers.
Here's fun part, if you wear all black that day you can get a free coffee.
Well, now that I think about it, I'm not sure if that helps with the whole fear thing. But hey you might get a free coffee out of it.
Good luck.

Looking for something for you or your family to do? Well you're in luck because the Ontario Main Library will be holding the "Best of Bogart" night every Thursday this month.
Sadly, I forgot to mention this last week so you already missed one night. According to the library's listing it's a "retrospective look at film icon Humphrey Bogart in four films showcasing his diverse acting talents that made him a popular star in the '40s and '50s." I hope you can make it out there to any of those days.
The event is every Thursday this month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Ontario Main Library, 215 E. C St. For information: (909) 395-2212

Scrapbook Ideas

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Looking for scrapbook ideas then head over to Ontario Main Library where instructors will demonstrate new techniques with hands on instruction. Attendees will take home a great looking page for a $3 charge. Pre-registration is required. The event is free for ages 16 years & older.
Ontario Main Library on Tuesday, Feb. 24 from 6:30 - 8 p.m. For information: (909) 395-2205.
The event will also be held at Colony High Branch Library on Feb. 25 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.
For information: (909) 395-2014.

Not Just a Box

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From the Ontario Library:

Kids, be ready to use your imagination and turn an ordinary cardboard box into something fantastic! We will read stories, play the Magic Box game and eat yummy food! Pre-registration is required.

Ontario Main Library

WHEN: Thursday, March 5, 10:30 - 11:30am

Contact: (909) 395-2207

The inaugural meeting of the West End Chapter of Gangs and Drugs Task Force will be held on Feb. 23, at 3:30 p.m. at Ontario Police Dept., Community Room.
Supervisor Ovitt will be giving the keynote speech and everyone is invited, including community members, schools, law enforcement, community based organization's, faith based groups, county and city decision makers, businesses - anyone who cares about the safety and development of local youth. 
Ontario Police Department, 2500 S Archibald Avenue, Ontario.

The Gang & Drug Task Force was formed in 1989 as a community response - by parents, youth, clergy, businesses, community-based organizations, educators, law enforcement and local government - to prevent gang violence and substance abuse in the County of San Bernardino.
The city of Ontario Recreation and Community Services department is now taking registration for their Tiny Tots program. The program is open to kids 3-5 years. An affordable and progressive pre-school program that teaches socialization skills, language development, independence and the use of large and fine motor skills. Daily activities include artis and crafts, music, outdoor play and story time. Totos will be introduced to shapes, colors, numbers, the alphabet and much more. Children must be potty trained. A birth certificate must be presented at registration. 

Program openings are offered at Munoz Community Center, 1240 W 4th Street and at the new Dorothy Quesada Community Center on 1010 South Bon View Avenue.

Winter Session 1 begins on March 2 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for 8 weeks at $144. For classes on Tuesday and Thursdays is $96 and also 8 weeks.

Registration for Spring Session starts on Tuesday, March 10 and that session will begin on April 27. 
For more information: (909) 395-2020.
This Olympic-style event includes running, jumping, kicking and throwing for kids from the age of 3-5 years old. The event will be on March 7. Awards will be given to all children for each event, fee includes a T-shirt, ribbons, memory photo frame and refreshments. Registration is limited. Sign up early at the Armstrong Center located at 1265 South Palmetto Avenue. Registration is also being taken at De Anza Community Center on 1405 South Fern Avenue, or register online @ www.ci.ontario.ca.us. 

Tot Olympics
DATE: Saturday, March 7
TIME: Check-in begins 9:30 a.m. the event starts at 10 a.m.
COST: $15 per participant and $19 for non residents.
WHERE: De Anza Community & Teen Center, 1405 S. Fern Avenue 
INFORMATION: (909) 395-2020

Here is a release I received from the planning department. Just to let you know they will be accepting nominations for Model Colony Awards until March 1. Contact information is below:



The City of Ontario invites the public to help celebrate Preservation Month 2009 in May.  National Preservation Month serves as a showcase for the country's diverse heritage and has been celebrated for over thirty years.  The commemoration of Ontario's unique heritage is part of a larger celebration.  Thousands of state and local community groups will honor their distinct histories with events that bring historic preservation to the forefront of Americans' daily lives by emphasizing the vital importance of protecting the nation's past.  In Ontario and elsewhere, historic preservation is one tool for managing growth, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride, and maintaining community character while enhancing livability.

Since 2001, the Ontario City Council has annually presented Model Colony Awards to individuals, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and to local agencies that have made significant contributions to the preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of architectural and cultural heritage within the community.

Anyone can nominate an individual, organization, agency or business for a Model Colony Award and are encouraged to do so. To find out about nomination forms, award categories, and property eligibility, please contact Diane Ayala, Assistant Planner, at (909) 395-2428. Nomination forms are available at the Planning Department located in City Hall or download a form at the City's Web site http://www.ci.ontario.ca.us/ontario . To be considered for the 2009 Awards, nominations must be received prior to March 1, 2009.

Historic preservation is relevant for all ages, all walks of life and all ethnic backgrounds.  The City of Ontario believes it is especially important to celebrate the role of history in the lives and the contributions made by dedicated individuals in helping to preserve the tangible aspects of heritage that has shaped the community.  Please join the City Council to recognize local historic preservation by participating in this year's Model Colony Awards program. City Council will host a special award presentation ceremony and proclamation the month of May 2009 as Preservation Month on May 5th in the City Council Chambers. A cake reception will follow in the courtyard.


To learn more about the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the month-long schedule of activities going on nationwide, visit www.nationaltrust.org


For Details, Contact:

Jerry Blum, Planning Director

City of Ontario, Planning Department

303 East "B" Street, Ontario, CA 91764

Phone 909-391-250

Ontario High School and alumnus, Mike Sweeney have organized a baseball camp this weekend in memory of Michael Ortiz.

Sweeney, a Kansas City baseball player, will be hosting the baseball camp this Saturday Feb. 7. The camp is at OHS and will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds from the camp will be donated to the Ortiz fund that has been set up with the Chaffey Federal Credit Union. Registration is $50 and includes a t-shirt and lunch.

Michael and his mother, Alicia Ortiz, were two of nine that were killed in the Christmas Eve masscare in Covina. Michael was a senior at the school and pitched for the baseball team.

Information: Jennifer Munoz (909) 460-5814.

Name the mascot, part dos

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I was flipping through the sports page of the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin when an ad on B5 caught my attention. "Name the Mascot, contest 2" in dark black letters, the ad goes on to state the Ontario Reign is looking to name their mascot. 
The contest, as I was informed by Sports Editor Louis Brewster, has been going on for at least a month. I thought I would let you know because if you enter you get a coupon for two tickets for the price of one. If you come up with the winning name you will win two season tickets.
Here's the thing you only have until Feb. 6 to make that submission.
You can enter via the web www.ontarioreign.com/fanzone/contest or mail entry to Ontario Reign-Mascot, 3633 Inland Empire Blvd, #130, Ontario.
Good luck.
I was on my way to work Tuesday morning and I was flipping through the radio stations when a commercial caught my attention. The commerical was on KFROG (yes, I listen to country music) and it was announcing a new addition to Fast Cars and Country Stars event at Citizens Business Bank Arena.
Jimmie Johnson, three-time Sprint Cup champion,  will now be the host of the event, which is on Feb. 19 and will feature a performance by Jason Aldean.
You can also expect NASCAR drivers stopping by the arena that day to sign autographs, as well as cars on display.


 
Jimmie Johnson celebrates after winning the Pepsi 500 last August at the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana.

Blood Drive this week

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LifeStream, the new name for the Blood Bank of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, invites all healthy residents to give the gift of life on Feb. 5 from 1 to 7 p.m. at City of Ontario Library, 215 East "C" Street in Ontario.
For every lifesaving donation, participants receive points as part of the "Gift of Life" Donor Loyalty Program that may be redeemed for items through LifeStream's online store. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.LStream.org or call LifeStream at 1.800.879.4484.
The Museum of History and Art Ontario will be holding the exhibit Lewis and Clark Revisited: A Trail in Modern Day photographs by Greg MacGregor.

Revisit the historic expedition of Lewis and Clark while you see what it looks like today. Photographer Greg MacGregor spent six years following the route of the Corps of Discovery, and discovered how dramatically the country has changed in two hundred years. On display will be 60 black and white photographs which are paired with excerpts from the Lewis and Clark journals, as well as MacGregor's own commentary.
The exhibit will run Feb. 12 through March 28. The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

The museum is located at 225 South Euclid Avenue, Ontario.
For information contact (909) 983-3198.

Happy 103rd Birthday

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We got an e-mail today that Roxie Jane Boone celebrated her 103rd birthday, yesterday (Feb.4)
Boone was born in Russelville, Arkansas and moved to California in 1934. She settled in Ontario in 1945 and has lived there ever since. Boone has two daughters and four grandchildren and give great grandchildren.
Feliz Cumpleanos Mrs. Boone.



The birthday gal
This is a release I received about a fashion show at the Toyota center.

Fashion students at The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire are gearing up for the first opportunity to showcase their work, a fashion show they will put on for employees of
the Toyota North American Parts Center (NAPCC) in Ontario.

The fashion show will be held on Febr. 26, 2009 at Toyota's North
American Parts Center, 1425 Toyota Way, Ontario.

It takes place less than one year after The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire began its fashion programs. It began offering a degree in Fashion & Retail Marketing in March 2008 and a degree in Fashion Design in June 2008.

The show, which is sponsored by Toyota's African American Collaborative, Ontario Chapter (AAC), will focus specifically on African-American fashion as part of Toyota's observance of Black History Month 2009.

"We're very pleased to partner with the Art Institute of California as we come together to recognize diversity within our community," said Wilson Johnson operations manager for Toyota NAPCC.

The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire offers Bachelor of Science degrees in Game Art & Design, Culinary Management, Graphic Design, Web Design & Interactive Media, Interior Design, Fashion Design and Retail Management, and Media Arts & Animation. There are also Associate of Science degrees in Graphic Design and Culinary Arts.
Each program is offered on a year-round basis, allowing students to work uninterrupted toward their degrees.

For more information or a tour, call The Art Institute of California - Inland Empire at (909) 915-2100.

Ontario Elks Lodge will host its 16th annual spaghetti feed with proceeds to go to 
the Elks various charities and scholarships for disadvantaged  children.
The event will be on Feb 15, at 2 - 5 pm
Adults $6 and kids 12 & under $4. All ages are welcome.
Ontario Elks Lodge 1150 West 4th St, Ontario, Ca. 91762
The door prize is two Disneyland Park Hopper tickets
Information: (909) 984-2777
 The Foothill Family Shelter is partnering with the Ontario Reign, a professional hockey team for a fundraiser on, Feb 18 - 7:00 pm at the Citizens Business Bank Arena. This is a night to raise money and recognize the Foothill Family Shelter. Tickets are only $17 per person, with 50 percent of the ticket sales going to the Shelter. Plus the Ontario Reign is donating 1 ticket to a shelter resident for every ticket sold. There will be chances to win a one-of-a-kind 14kt Gold and Diamond Pendant from Grand Jewelers, in the Ontario Mills Mall, during the Chuck-A-Puck contest, and other prizes.

The Ontario Reign has donated four rides on the Zamboni as it resurfaces the ice. Two rides are available before the dame and two during  the first intermission. We are having a silent auction for the four rides. The bidding starts at $25 per ride and all you need to do is email Renee at renee@rfutter.com) and  you name will be added to the bid sheets.
If you get out bid, Renee will e-mail you back and you can bid again.
The bidding ends on Feb. 16. All proceeds from the Zamboni Rides goes back to the shelter.
Foothill Family Shelter is a nonprofit organization founded in 1984 which houses homeless families with children for a period of up to 120 days, free of rent and utility charges. The Shelter provides one-year transitional housing as well as permanent housing.

For tickets and more information please contact Jeanette (909) 920-0251 or via e-mail jeanette@foothillfamilyshelter.org

This is an item I found interesting and will be discussed at Tuesday's council meeting:

That the City Council adopt the attached Resolution establishing a policy governing the receipt and distribution of tickets and/or passes. 

BACKGROUND: The Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) recently adopted new regulations clarifying those circumstances under which the receipt of tickets and/or passes by public officials creates a disclosure requirement for the purposes of the public official's Statement of Economic Interest. The proposed policy ensures that all tickets and/or passes provided to the City shall be distributed in furtherance of governmental and/or public purposes in accordance with applicable State law

On Tuesday night the council is expected to introduce an ordinance to establish a sunset provision pertaining to the additional salary compensation rate for the Mayor position

The Mayor's salary modification will be effective after the next election in November 2010 and result in budgetary savings of $30,000 annually

At the City Council meeting on February 20, 2007, the Council approved an additional compensation amount of $2,500 per month above the $385.25 already in effect. Now, due to the current economic climate and budget constraints, the City Council is considering a sunset provision to terminate the additional compensation approved in February 2007. This action would retain the current salary compensation provided for under Section 2?1.203(b) of the Ontario Municipal Code until after the next election in November 2010, at which time the additional compensation amount would be reduced by $2,500 per month. Currently, the additional monthly compensation is $2,885.25.

Read Across America Day

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In recognition of Dr. Seuss' birthday, March 2 has been designated Read Across America Day. As part of the festivities Ranch View School in Ontario will have community leaders stop by the school and read.
On Tuesday night the City Council will discuss having to reduce $3.93 million from their 2008- 2009 annual budget.
Among the items the council will discuss is eliminating 28 full time positions, 11 of those positions are currently vacant and the remaining positions are expected to be eliminated through retirements or promotions and transfers. The proposed elimination will save the city about $2.47 million dollars.
The remaining will come from reductions in budget of the Ontario Convention Center, $500,000. The city will also reduce over-time hours and part-time hours.

The city council meets Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m.
The Ontario Police Department is now accepting applications for the Citizen's Academy which begins March 4.

All classes will be conducted from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday's at the Ontario Police Department, 2500 S. Archibald Ave., Ontario.

The program lasts 13 weeks, culminating in a graduation ceremony.

The academy is free and open to all qualified applicants regardless of residence.

The academy helps to dispel misconceptions about law enforcement and explains procedures and regulations used by the Ontario Police Department.

The outcome is a positive relationship and shared partnership between civilians and law enforcement personnel.

For more information or to request an application, contact Suzanne Thomas, (909) 395-2094.

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